Richard Froese
South Peace News

Big Lakes County Fires Services welcomed a new pumper-rescue truck to its fleet to serve the western area of the county.

The new truck highlights the county’s commitment to enhance public safety and improve emergency response capabilities says a Big Lakes County news release dated Aug. 12.

Based in High Prairie, the pumper-rescue truck serves the Banana Belt, Gilwood, Salt Prairie and the Sunset House areas.

Big Lakes fire chief Jason Cottingham says the new truck arrived Aug. 7 and was put into service the same day.

Manufactured by Acres Industries at Wawanesa, Manitoba, the new truck replaces and old truck that was in service for 27 years.

“The new truck provide services for both Big Lakes and the Town of High Prairie,” Cottingham says.

“Big Lakes County Fire Services appreciates the support from the community and council and we continue to modernize.”

Reeve Tyler Airth is pleased with the new truck.

“We are excited to see our continued commitment to community safety with the arrival of this pumper-rescue truck,” Airth says.

“This investment is well-aligned with our strategic plan that focuses on providing high-quality services to our residents while demonstrating fiscal responsibility for the long-term goals of our county.”

The new truck is part of the county’s strategy to replace multiple aging vehicles with a unit that is more versatile.

This approach aims to reduce the county’s dependence on numerous specialized vehicles, save costs, and increase the capacity by incorporating multi-purpose capabilities.

Big Lakes continues to respond to surrounding areas in accordance with the Inter-municipal Collaboration Framework (ICF), ensuring regional co-operation and support.

Local fire departments continue to recruit firefighters.

“If you are interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter for Big Lakes or High Prairie, we are always short members and are always looking for more,” Cottingham says.