Redwood Meadows Emergency Services Rebuilds Fleet Following Devastating Station Fire
In a significant step toward recovery, Redwood Meadows Emergency Services has welcomed a new 3,000-gallon water tender to its fleet, purchased with insurance money after a fire damaged their station in December. The department hosted a traditional "push-in" ceremony on Tuesday night to celebrate the addition, marking a pivotal moment in their rebuilding efforts.
Ceremony Honors Centuries-Old Firefighting Tradition
The push-in ceremony, held at the station in the townsite, is a ritual that dates back hundreds of years to the era of horse-drawn steamers. Fire Chief Rob Evans explained the historical significance, noting that firefighters would unhitch horses and manually push equipment back into the firehall. "In modern times, when a new apparatus comes into a fire station, the motorized wagons are pushed in just to honor that tradition," Evans said. This event not only celebrates new equipment but also emphasizes teamwork and community support, core values for the department.
New Truck Enhances Firefighting Capabilities for Multiple Communities
The newly acquired water tender, capable of holding 3,000 gallons of water, will play a crucial role in serving Redwood Meadows, Rocky View County, Tsuut’ina Nation, and surrounding areas. Evans highlighted that the truck can respond to virtually all fires alongside their remaining engine, thanks to its large pump and tank. Interestingly, this replacement truck features a bigger pump and tank than the previous model, providing an upgrade in firefighting capacity. The department was able to secure a demo truck with low mileage, allowing for a quick acquisition within a month of the fire.
Rebuilding After Fire: A Focus on Redundancy and Safety
The December fire, which affected a secondary building and four vehicles, underscored the importance of built-in redundancies for community safety. Evans noted that while primary rigs in the main fire hall were unharmed, secondary trucks like the water tender and a utility task vehicle (UTV) were prioritized for replacement due to their unique roles. "These secondary trucks were the redundancy we built in for the safety of the community," he said. With the new tender, the department has restored its service level to meet community needs, ensuring they remain fully ready to respond to emergencies.
This rebuilding effort not only addresses immediate losses but also strengthens the department's resilience, demonstrating a commitment to protecting residents through improved equipment and time-honored traditions.
