Halton Hills fire crews are getting a significant upgrade after town council authorized the purchase of a new custom pumper/rescue truck during the April 20 council meeting.
The town is paying just over $1.6-million — well under its $1.8-million budget.
The new truck, built by U.S.-based Pierce Manufacturing, will replace Pumper 724, a 2010 model that is currently reaching the end of its reliable service life. Town staff explained the older vehicle has become increasingly difficult to maintain due to the “timely sourcing of replacement parts” and lacks modern safety features like side-impact airbags.
The incoming Pierce model features several key upgrades:
- Water capacity A 1,000 U.S. gallon tank, up from the current 750-gallon capacity.
- Safety systems Integrated roll cage protection and advanced occupant airbags.
- Multi-mission design Configured to carry heavy extrication “Jaws of Life” and medical gear, acting as both a fire engine and a rescue vehicle.
Despite council’s approval, due to ongoing global manufacturing backlogs, the estimated delivery time is currently 30 months from the date the order is placed.
Funding for the purchase will be drawn from the town’s Capital Equipment Reserve.