New engine for Mattoon

A new combination rescue pumper is set to join the Mattoon Fire Department’s fleet on Monday, replacing two older vehicles and improving operational efficiency.

The E-ONE rescue pumper features a 780-gallon water tank mounted on a Typhoon chassis. It includes a hydraulic cutter and spreader at the front bumper, connected to an onboard hydraulic pump, along with a remote-controlled light tower for enhanced visibility during emergencies.

The city acquired the $564,626 vehicle with the help of a $285,715 Assistance to Firefighters Grant from FEMA. Fire Chief Tony Nichols submitted the grant application back in March 2016 and was notified in May 2016 that the funding had been approved. This was a major breakthrough after several unsuccessful attempts in previous years.

Previously, the department had been saving up for a new truck, but without the grant, it would have been difficult to make the purchase. Now that the new unit is in service, the fire department plans to sell its 1978 rescue truck and 1987 engine online. The 1993 rescue and 1998 engine will remain in reserve for backup use.

From the Banner Fire Equipment Facebook page:

From Craig Hamrick’s post: “Delivery day for Mattoon Rescue Engine 21! This is the day that seems like an eternity in coming, but makes all of the meetings and pre-build work worth it. This isn’t just a beautiful rig—it’s super functional too. Thank you, Mattoon Fire, for trusting E-ONE and Banner Fire Equipment to build this amazing unit for you.”

Photo from the Banner Fire Equipment Facebook page

Photo from the Banner Fire Equipment Facebook page

Photo from the Banner Fire Equipment Facebook page