Archive » General News » News

Bancroft fire fighters purchase new equipment

September 3, 2014

By Tony Pearson

Both the Bancroft and Dungannon fire fighters have done a lot of fundraising over the past year, and now they have some new equipment to show for their efforts. The Bancroft hall raised money through a variety of activities, including filling swimming pools, washing parking lots, and operating a babecue booth at the Wheels,Water and Wings weekend. Through these activities, they raised over $15,000, and through their fund, have been able to purchase a powerful new fire suppression pump, which enables the fire fighters to access water from the river, a lake or even a pond. They were also able to buy protective suits to help them fight bush fires and speed auto extrication.

Not to be outdone, the Dungannon fire hall volunteers raised money through their annual mud run in April, and were able to buy a powerful new generator. This not only provides back-up during a power outage – including powering the doors to allow the fire trucks to get to a call – but also provides an emergency shelter for the area in the event of a local disaster. In addition to this $12,000 purchase, the fire fighters spent a further $8,000 of the money they have raised to pave the apron in front of their hall. This means all-season access for the fire trucks, even during the spring “mud bog.” It also protects equipment when it is being loaded, and provides a drying space for hoses and equipment.

Councillor Mullett expressed on behalf of Council its congratulations and thanks to the fire fighters for all their work to enhance the department’s ability to protect the township, over and above the township’s financial assistance.