New fire engine boosts WFPD

By JoAn Bjarko
North Forty News

Wellington's volunteer firefighters spent a Saturday afternoon inspecting a new engine that arrived that day, Feb. 23, and will be put into service for the community in early March.

It becomes Engine 1 in the Wellington Fire Protection District's lineup of equipment used to respond to both medical emergencies and fire calls in a 288-square-mile region. In addition, the Wellington department has a mutual aid agreement to assist Cheyenne, Nunn, Livermore, Poudre Fire Authority and Platte River Power Authority.

The $320,000 engine was partially funded with a 40 percent grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs. This new engine carries 1,000 gallons of water with a two-stage pump that delivers 1,500 gallons per minute.

The new engine, built on a Spartan frame with a General Safety Rosenbauer body, replaces a 1987 International that pumped 1,000 gallons per minute. The '87 will become Reserve 1, and the current reserve engine will be sold, said Fire Chief Ken Betchel.

In this new engine, six firefighters can ride inside wearing seat belts while dressed in full protective gear. The body also has safety striping for greater visibility.

Betchel said the fire district is gradually upgrading equipment to improve the community's rating for fire insurance. About this time next year, the district will have a new tender in service in Waverly.

The department is currently accepting applications for volunteers. Anyone interested may pick up a form at the station, 8130 Third St. More information is available by calling 568-3232.