Eagle Mountain’s Unified Fire Authority firefighters are set to receive a state-of-the-art ladder truck at Station 252.
It’s considered a significant upgrade that promises enhanced safety and operational efficiency for the city’s fire response and emergency services. The new ladder truck, costing just over $1 million, will replace the aging 2006 Seagrave with a 75-foot aerial ladder.
“This new ladder truck represents a significant upgrade for our department,” says UFA Division Chief Michael Greensides. “The improved access capabilities, combined with enhanced safety features, will allow us to serve our community more effectively.”
The existing Seagrave has served the community well but, according to UFA, has become increasingly costly to maintain.
With 5,449 engine hours and 142,968 miles, its operational expenses have escalated to $59.22 per hour or $5.45 per mile. The Seagrave’s engine is notably inefficient, consuming an average of 4.9 gallons of fuel per hour, resulting in an hourly fuel cost of $16.25. This financial strain underscores the necessity for a more efficient and modern apparatus.
The new ladder truck, equipped with a 109-foot aerial ladder, will improve access to buildings with greater setbacks and taller roofs, enhancing the department’s firefighting capabilities.
Safety during emergency responses is also prioritized with the new truck’s advanced warning lights, which can reduce brightness and slow the flashing pattern when parked at night. This feature minimizes distractions for passing motorists and enhances safety for the crew operating at emergency scenes.
“The safety of our firefighters and the public is our top priority, and this new apparatus will play a crucial role in achieving that,” says Greensides.
The new ladder truck also boasts a 400-gallon water tank, providing an initial water supply for fire attacks, and a fire pump with a minimum capacity of 1,500 gallons per minute from a standing water source.
The vehicle’s compartments are designed for greater storage capacity, accommodating more tools and equipment.
Operational ease is another highlight of the new truck, featuring a single joystick for ladder operation, replacing the older three-lever system.
In line with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, which recommend that apparatus more than 15 years old be placed in reserve status if still serviceable, the old Seagrave will serve as a reserve unit.
This ensures continued operational readiness in case the new front-line ladder truck requires maintenance or repairs.
The Unified Fire Authority (UFA) placed the order for this ladder truck and an identical one for a Kearns fire station back in October 2021. However, delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, and a surge in fire apparatus orders have extended the completion timeline.
“We are very excited for this unit to arrive and provide our services with this upgraded apparatus,” added Greensides. “It has been a long wait, but the enhancements in safety and efficiency are well worth it.”
As Eagle Mountain prepares to welcome this advanced ladder truck, the community can look forward to improved emergency response capabilities.
