Temple hosts equipment showcase

Temple Fire & rescue hosted an equipment showcase Oct. 13 for departments across the region to get a glimpse at the latest array of fire apparatus and technology available.  

“Fire and Rescue have unique needs, so it is important for us to stay ahead of the curve on the best equipment to serve our communities,” Assistant Fire Chief Jonathan Christian said. “It’s a great opportunity for us to see what’s out there and provide resources to our neighbor departments to help meet their needs.” 

Siddons-Martin Emergency Group brought a 100-foot ladder truck, ambulance rig, a fire engine/pumper and a brush truck to provide fire crews an immersive experience with the equipment. The showcase also highlighted the latest technology and products available and provided first responders from around the region the opportunity to talk to experts about their community’s needs. 

Personnel from Belton, Killeen, Harker Heights, Moffat and Morgan’s Point joined more than 30 Temple firefighters to see and test the equipment.  

 “For us, it’s great to have these resources so close for us to see,” Morgan’s Point Resort Fire Department Chief Taran Vaszocz said. “Temple has always done a great job making resources like this available to the departments around them. We are glad to be out here today.” 

Several personnel got to road test a new Pierce Manufacturing demo truck featuring their new PACCAR MX-13 powertrain -- a heavy-duty diesel engine that features a lightweight design and better fuel economy. Pierce Manufacturing is the leading North American manufacturer of custom fire apparatus, and the supplier for Temple Fire & Rescue trucks and equipment.  

“Our apparatus committee members were involved in the showcase and got an up-close look at the equipment.” Christian said. “They help complete the designs and build out of our new trucks, so this event is something that really benefits us in a number of ways.”