Bow Island Fire looking to purchase new rescue truck

Posted on August 24, 2023 by Ryan Dahlman

By Anna Smith
Commentator/Courier

While their current rescue vehicle has served them faithfully for many years, the Bow Island Fire Department is hoping to improve safety for their volunteers with an upgraded replacement.

A delegation of firefighters visited the August 14 meeting of Bow Island Council, requesting funds to help with the purchase of a new rescue vehicle and associated equipment.

“The Bow Island Fire Department is in need of a new Rescue Truck for the safety of our

members. Our current 2006 GMC truck no longer suits the needs of our call volume.

So far in 2023, we have responded with rescue over 45 times. This is the one vehicle that

rolls to every call,” said Blaine O’Donnell, fire chief.

Currently, there are not enough seatbelts to accommodate the number of personnel needed to respond to a rescue event, said O’Donnell, where the new vehicle they have in mind would allow more members to arrive on scene in a safe and timely manner.

“The person sitting in the middle right now has their knees to their chin and a medical bag on their lap,” said O’Donnell. “This is a very unsafe practice.”

The department has attempted to apply for grants, as well as fundraisers, in the past; they did not receive the grants, and while they were happy to see public support, the donations received do not cover the roughly $150,000 for a new truck and all of the associated equipment.

They are looking to purchase a new 2024 Chevrolet 1 Ton Work Truck, as well as everything that is needed to equip it to a Rescue Truck. This includes a truck topper, light, sirens, and other necessary equipment.

Council took the delegation under consideration. O’Donnell did add in a private interview that if any member of the public would like to donate to the cause, the department would be glad for the support.