“A typical apparatus serves the residents for approximately 20 years, but the heavy rescue has outlasted them all,” Assistant Fire Chief Stephen Oughterson said in a statement.
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Instead of replacing the truck — which would have cost taxpayers an estimated $800,000 — fire officials shifted resources and re-worked response plans so that existing engine companies could fully shoulder rescue responses, officials said.
“We currently have two engines in strategic positions in the township that have the capability to carry all of the equipment that was on Heavy Rescue 71,” said Oughterson, adding that personnel are prepared for technical rescue runs because the department also houses the Butler County Technical Rescue Truck.
West Chester Fire Department is currently working with the trustees on plans to sell the decommissioned truck.
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