Macclenny Fire Department gets new engine

Macclenny Fire Department gets new engine

POSTED 10/10/2008 - City of Macclenny residents enjoy the protection of a full time fire department that has maintained an ISO (Insurance Services Organization) rating of Class Four over the past several years. In addition, the department, and especially Fire Chief Buddy Dugger has required extensive training for all of their firefighters including those working part time.

The City of Macclenny's newest tool is a 2008 Emergency One Custom Heavy Rescue/Engine.

Just a few months ago Macclenny unveiled their new fire station on the south side of the city. The station includes a new three story training tower and was built with $15,000 in impact fees. .

This week the city took possession of a 2008 Emergency One Custom Heavy Rescue/Engine paid in part by additional impact fees. The main funding for the $359,000 truck was garnered by a FEMA/DHS grant written by the fire department. The grant covered all but $54,000 in matching funds from those impact fees.

Chief Dugger said his grant specifications were written to increase the safety of firefighters and the public; reduce the stress and physical demand on personnel; reduce injuries from deployment; and to reduce maintenance costs.

"As fire chief, two areas bring the most pride to me," said Chief Dugger. "First is the increased safety of firefighters enabling them to act faster with the reduced physical stress placed on them and second the truck is paid for with FEMA grant and impact fee funds not requiring tax monies from our citizens."

The new engine has seating for five firefighters and is equipped with a full set of extrication equipment, air bags, and water rescue and firefighting equipment. It is equipped to handle any emergency situation with a 1000 gallon water tank, 30 gallon foam tank, and 15KW hydraulic 240/110 volt generator.