Date:

February 14, 2006

For More Information Contact:

Diane Gonzolas, Citizen Information Center, 441-7831

Chief Mike Spadt, Fire and Rescue, 441-8350

Steve Van Hoosen, Fire and Rescue, 441-8396

Mayor Coleen J. Seng today unveiled the first of seven new fire pumpers that Lincoln Fire & Rescue will soon place in service. The first pumper will be based at Fire Station #14, 5435 N.W. 1st Street, to replace an 18-year old vehicle. The other six pumpers will be delivered over the next few months after the installation of the radio system and other equipment.

“Public safety is a top priority for City government, and these new fire pumpers give Lincoln Fire and Rescue the equipment to do an even better job of protecting this community,” said Mayor Seng. “These are the first new pumpers added to the fleet since 2000, and they will replace the department’s oldest vehicles. The replacements have added features that will not only help in fire response, but also will make the pumpers easier to maintain.”

Fire Chief Mike Spadt said the department’s goal is to replace units after 10 to 12 years of service. He outlined the improved features of the new pumpers, which include:

• roll-up doors on each equipment compartment to allow firefighters total access to equipment;
• LED warning lights, which are more durable and offer better visibility on the road;
• quick rise, telescoping lighting stands;
• a telescoping nozzle for rapid set up during large fire incidents to deliver up to 1,000 gallons per minute; and
• a computer-controlled diagnostics system to assist in making need repairs more quickly.

Spadt said all Firefighters will be trained on the new equipment as needed.