After 18 months of planning and assembly, the Salem Fire Protection District is officially putting into service its new Brush Truck
This new brush truck, 9539, has increased water capacity, seating capacity, towing capacity, more controls from in the cab, and increased tool storage. This custom-made brush truck replaces a 28-year-old brush truck that has been in service since 1998.
The pumper was custom built and equipped to specifically serve the needs of the Salem Fire Protection District. The chassis was purchased through the State bid process, and the truck was assembled and built by the winning bidder, Gerry’s Automotive of Evansville, IN.
Brush Truck 9539 is equipped with a 300-gallon water tank and carries assorted grass and brush firefighting equipment. The combination of the capabilities of the newer fire apparatus and the increased capacities helps the Fire District personnel in the event of a grass or brush fire.
Through proper fiscal management and planning, the new brush truck was purchased without the need for increased taxes or a bond issue. The goal of the Salem Fire Protection District Board of Trustees is to keep the most up-to-date equipment in the hands of their firefighters so they can better serve the citizens of the Salem Fire Protection District.
The public is welcome to stop by the Salem Fire Protection District and look at this new piece of firefighting equipment anytime between 7 am and 7 pm.
A stream of water can be directed at a fire from the controls of the new brush truck.
The new brush truck is equipped to handle many situations. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
