By Jacqueline Koch
The Chattanooga Times Free Press
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — About a year ago, Chattanooga Fire Department officials asked firefighters what features they’d want on their firetrucks if they could have anything they liked.
After listening to and paring down suggestions, the department this year debuted four new squad trucks — and ordered a fifth — that can be used to fight fires, perform extrications and respond to hazardous materials scenes and urban search-and-rescues.
“It’s kind of a catch-all truck that does everything,” Chief Randy Parker said.
He said the trucks have been used for six months and have been so successful the department bought another that meets newer emissions standards. It will serve the Volkswagen plant, Chief Parker said.
The trucks also have increased safety features, including striping and lights on the back to make them more visible.
The new trucks, like all other department equipment, can serve as first-responders because each offers emergency medical technician-level care, Chief Parker said. They were paid for out of the fire department’s capital budget, he said.
East Ridge officials were so impressed with Chattanooga’s squad trucks, they wanted one of their own. The East Ridge City Council approved the purchase last week, and the city could have the truck by next fall.
East Ridge Public Safety Chief Eddie Phillips said that because its purchase was tacked onto a bid by Chattanooga, the truck will cost his city just under $400,000, lower than a stand-alone bid. It will last at least 20 years, Chief Phillips said.
He said he was impressed by the trucks’ multifunctionality.
“While our guys are out there (fighting a fire) they can handle whatever comes up, and they don’t have to go back to the fire station to get the right truck,” Chief Phillips said. “They arrive with whatever tools they need.”
Copyright 2009 Chattanooga Publishing Company