Grand Forks Fire/Rescue welcomes new pumper rescue with ceremonial push

Engine 354, a custom-built pumper rescue, arrived in Grand Forks on Feb. 7 and firefighters performed a ceremonial push into the Second Street station during training on Feb. 11.

Grand Forks Fire/Rescue received a custom-built rescue and pumper truck that arrived in the city on Feb. 7. Firefighters made the ceremonial push into the Second Street station during their weekly training on Feb. 11. City CAO Duncan Redfearn and City Councillor Deborah Lafleur joined firefighters for the push. The department says the truck replaces older apparatus and was placed into service immediately for training and pumping exercises. Key details: - Engine 354 arrived in Grand Forks on Feb. 7 and was ceremonially pushed into the station on Feb. 11. - City representatives Duncan Redfearn and Deborah Lafleur joined firefighters for the push. - Chief Rich Piché said the custom build faced some delays but is now fully in service. - The engine is a combined pumper rescue with a 1,500 gallon-per-minute pump, 1,000 gallons onboard, an aerial monitor, hose reel, large-diameter front intake, and upgraded lighting. - Onboard supplies were organized with fire equipment on the driver side and rescue equipment on the passenger side. - City staff identified the replacement need in January 2023; Safetek Emergency Vehicles Ltd. was awarded the supply contract for $995,200 and Metalfab Ltd. manufactured the engine, which underwent a final inspection in Airdrie before delivery. Summary: The new custom-built pumper rescue was put into service immediately and used in that evening's training for pumping exercises. Officials noted some build delays, plan to add a Canadian flag decal in time, and crews will continue working with the vehicle as part of regular training.