BRISTOL, Tenn. – An upbeat group of firefighters and paramedics gathered at the city’s Central Station off Bluff City Highway Wednesday to marvel at more than $420,000 worth of new equipment.
On June 6, the fire department received a new $307,000 fire engine with a black and red paint scheme and an additional $70,000 worth of new equipment.
“We’ll be putting the engine into use at the end of the month,” said Fire Chief Bob Barnes, as he stood with his arms crossed and a wide smile across his face. “It’s a big moral booster for our guys. They’re really enthused about it.”
The new engine will replace an older unit that will be put on reserve status. The sparkling new engine is one of four “front line” units. It has roll-up doors and the color scheme similar to that of the Chicago Fire Department, Barnes said.
The city, which included the new engine in this year’s budget, was purchased from Pro-Life Equipment in Olive Branch, Miss.
“This doesn’t add to the number of total engines, but the life span of one of these things is 10 to 15 years, and what this does is keep us ahead of the curve,” said firefighter Brad Prillhart. “I kind of feel like the kid that gets that new bicycle. But this really gives us a sense of pride and confidence.”
The department also has purchased a new $45,000 command vehicle dubbed Battalion 1. The four-wheel-drive Ford Expedition, also budgeted by the city this year, has been outfitted with additional communication equipment, including three radio systems. It allows the battalion chief to communicate with other agencies when responding to mutual-aid calls or with agencies in other jurisdictions.
“The acquisition of this vehicle will greatly enhance the ability of our department to set up an efficient, professional incident command center at any emergency scene,” said Battalion Chief Larry Talbert.
Battalion 1, which is now in service, also is equipped with a GPS – a satellite-based navigation system that will allow a more rapid response to mutual-aid calls outside the city.
The vehicle also has a flat bed scanner and printer, various map, and other reference materials such as pre-fire plans for businesses, industries, schools and medical facilities.
Meanwhile, the department is in the process of testing and conducting background checks on six new firefighters.
A federal grant awarded to the city earlier this year will help pay a portion of their salaries. The addition will increase the number of firefighters in the department from 48 to 54.
All six firefighters are expected to begin work by the end of July, Barnes said.
ggray@bristolnews.com | (276) 645-2512
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