In an effort to restructure its operations after a failed levy request, the Selkirk Fire District has transitioned away from its original chief vehicle and now uses a well-equipped Ford F-550 that resembles a light rescue unit.  

A light rescue unit is equipped to provide immediate medical and extrication support, whereas a chief vehicle is typically focused on command and control support.  

According to public information officer Brandon Vaccaro, the vehicle, which will be driven by acting Battalion Chief Glen Cassidy, will carry technical rescue equipment such as rope rescue, auto extrication, ice rescue gear, in addition to firefighter rehabilitation, spare breathing air cylinders, additional medical equipment, scene lighting and full incident command capabilities for major incidents.  

The transition of vehicles comes from reorganization efforts by the district, after a recent levy failure forced the district to find ways to reduce costs and modify staffing levels, all the while maintaining the same level of service as before.  

“The public expects us to provide the same level of service as the larger fire agencies with greater resources and staffing,” Chief Jeff Armstrong said. “That expectation requires us to be creative, remain flexible and do things differently.”  

Reorganization efforts brought “much-needed budget relief,” all the while improving station staffing and enhancing safety measures, without adding positions, according to Vaccaro. Part of those efforts included the creation of a new rank, a 24/7 battalion chief, who is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations.  

Working with department members to identify community needs compared to the existing fleet of vehicles, it was determined that the enhanced, non-stereotypical vehicle would best support the community and help improve response times.  

“This vehicle allows the battalion chief to arrive on scene with specialized equipment that augments the department’s rescue engine capabilities and supports extended all-hazard incidents,” Vacarro said in a press release.  

According to Armstrong, an internal evaluation of the vehicle model will be conducted to allow community members and fire commissioners to comment on the program’s success in the next year.