YORKTON – A new fire truck recently added to the Yorkton fleet had it’s ‘name’ unveiled, and was ceremonially pushed into the fire hall at a ceremony Wednesday.
Yorkton Fire had put out a call to residents to help give it a name the new truck, and some 60 people responded with suggestions.
The winning name ‘Truck Norris’ was proposed by siblings Tallulah and Brewer Pengilly, who were recognized at the event and invited to participate in a ride in the new fire engine.
Dallas D’Aoust, Deputy Fire Chief, explained the truck is a replacement for a unit which after 25 years of service was not longer viable.
The new truck, which cost $980,000, is actually more than a straight replacement as it has wildfire capability, said D’Aoust who noted provincially they are seeing more rural wildfires, and locally field fires. The foam suppression unit on the new truck will be an asset in such calls.
The unit, while new, will be the city’s back-up unit, used when the main truck is out for service, or for larger fire calls.
“This is an exciting moment for Yorkton,” said Aaron Kienle, Mayor of Yorkton. “Truck Norris is bold, fun, and truly reflects the spirit of our community. Thank you to Tallulah and Brewer for their creativity, and thank you to our firefighters for the incredible service they provide every day.”
D’Aoust, added, “Naming a new fire engine isn't something we take for granted. It's a major investment in safety, reliability, and our ability to protect the people who call Yorkton home. We're fortunate and proud to welcome this new piece of apparatus into service.”
The push-in ceremony which followed is a longstanding fire service tradition, although a first for Yorkton, marking the engine’s official entry into Yorkton Fire’s fleet.
At the same time, as the winter season approaches, Yorkton Fire is reminding residents to take a moment to review fire safety at home. One of the most effective ways to stay safe is by checking your smoke alarms every month to ensure they are working properly.
Residents are also encouraged to:
* Replace smoke alarm batteries as needed
* Ensure alarms are installed on every level of the home
* Review and practice a home escape plan with all family members
