Pullman Volunteer Fire Department Upgrades Wildfire Response with New Trucks

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The volunteer fire department protecting the Pullman, Washington area has received two new custom-built brush trucks to enhance their wildfire response capabilities. Whitman County Fire District 12 saved money from their levy for several years to purchase the $350,000 trucks, which each carry 500 gallons of water and advanced firefighting equipment.

Why it matters

As wildfires become more frequent and severe in the western U.S., volunteer fire departments play a critical role in protecting rural and small-town communities. The new trucks give the Pullman-area department improved tools to respond quickly and effectively to wildland blazes.

The details

The new brush trucks from Skeeter Emergency Vehicles in Texas each have a 500-gallon water tank, powerful pumps, and 1,000 feet of hose. One truck has a crew cab for four firefighters, while the other can carry two. The rigs have replaced the department's 1982 and 1984 brush trucks and are now the first to respond to wildfires in the Pullman area.

• The department ordered the new fire trucks three and a half years ago.
• The trucks were recently received and put into service.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The new brush trucks will be stationed at Fire District 12's Station 1 on Sunnyside Hill and Station 3 on the north edge of Pullman, ready to respond to wildfires in the surrounding area.