The Iola and Rural Fire Department recently acquied a new fire engine.
The truck is a 2012 Pierce Saber 1500 gallon-per-minute Engine/Pumper, according to Jim Aanstad, deputy chief.
“This engine will be replacing an outdated 37-year old engine,” Aanstad said. “The new apparatus has a seating capacity for six firefighters, larger pump capacity, better scene lighting and larger compartments and more equipment storage.”
“It is equipped with the most current safety and operating features which will better serve our community,” he said, adding that the department appreciated the municipalities’ decision to purchase the new equipment.
Cost of the engine was $360,000, which was paid for by the village of Iola, and the townships of Iola, Helvetia, Harrison and New Hope.
“According to the NFPA standards, the life expectancy of a fire engine is 20 years,” said Aanstad. “We are hoping 20 to 25 years.”
“Tentatively we are hoping Engine 924 to be in service by the end of March,” he continued. “It will be put into service once all our personnel are trained on operating it.”
The department currently has two engine/pumpers, one water tender, one rescue truck and one brush truck.
“We would also like to (express appreciation to) the Iola Lions Club and the Krause Foundation for their donations for additional equipment,” he added.
According to Aanstad, the department currently has 25 firefighters and they are always looking for new members.