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New WFD Vehicles Improve Safety and Increase Access
Westerville Division of Fire (WFD) Station 113’s (355 N Spring Rd.) new fire truck is officially in service after a “push-in” ceremony on March 29. In the 1800s when horse-drawn equipment was used during fire rescues, crews had to detach the horses and physically push equipment back into storage areas after returning from a rescue. Push-in ceremonies now pay homage to the period before the invention of motorized vehicles and also serve as a celebratory way to introduce new fire trucks to the community.
WFD also recently received a grant from Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation in support of operations. WFD used the $31,000 grant to purchase a new side-by-side vehicle. The Polaris Ranger Crew XP 1000 ATV is equipped with a compact rescue skid unit that enables the small vehicle to quickly and easily transport fire and rescue equipment.
“The side-by-side will assist firefighters and medics in gaining access to areas that would normally be difficult to access with a fire apparatus or an emergency medical response (EMS) medic vehicle,” said WFD Lieutenant Nick Jones. “The side-by-side replaced a John Deere Gator that was purchased over 20 years ago.”
WFD currently serves 50,000 Westerville and Blendon Township residents. The division also plays an active role in the Central Ohio Strike Team, a regional urban search and rescue team. WFD responds to more than 8,300 calls for emergency assistance annually between its three stations and is responsible for all types of emergencies including fire, EMS, confined-space rescue, high-angle rescue and water rescues, so the return on investment of the side-by-side vehicle is very high.
“The features of the new vehicle were created after much research and consideration from our front-line firefighters who were running into problems while operating under the previous procedure using the Gator,” said Lt. Jones. “The side-by-side will be available for use in dense areas, such as parks and trails, where it is difficult for our larger fire and EMS vehicles to access.”
The unit will also be used to aid EMS response during times like the city’s fireworks displays, 4th Friday gatherings, and festivals often held by organizations that request our presence.
“This increased access will help us one day make a difference in the outcome of someone’s life,” said Lt. Jones.
