Anniston, AL – Anniston Fire Chief Johnnie Phelps invited the media to come see the newest additions to the Anniston Fire Department’s arsenal to respond to emergencies. Chief Phelps said that Engine 1 has already been in service for almost a year, and Engines 2, 3, and 4 have only been in service for a few months. The new ladder truck is the last of the apparatus to be placed in service and has been serving Anniston for the last two weeks. Chief Phelps said, “The previous ladder truck has been in service for approximately 20 years.”
While showing the vehicles, Chief Phelps noted that the “Scramble” (AFD logo on doors) was put into place by the late Chief Jeff Waldrep and was a nod back to the logos used in the 1950s. Chief Phelps also noted that a memorial plaque was currently being designed and will be placed onto the new ladder truck when it is completed. The new paint scheme of grey over red was also designed by the late Chief Waldrep, and Chief Phelps wanted to ensure that his legacy was remembered.
“Each of the replacements will help the AFD respond to emergency calls with greater proficiency,” stated Chief Phelps. He went on to explain that the new engines have a larger cargo capacity to accommodate more equipment that can be used on any scene. The older vehicles were also beginning to break down a lot more, causing them to be taken out of service for repairs. This creates a burden on the entire department, causing shifts in equipment or time delays.
The ladder truck also provides updated aerial apparatus for structure fires, elevated rescues, ventilation of buildings, and other emergency operations. The four pumpers will be placed into frontline service throughout the department. The vehicles being taken out of service will still help the fire department. The old ladder truck will be maintained and used as a backup if the primary ladder truck is unavailable. Chief Phelps said, “As far as I can remember, Anniston Fire Department has never had a backup ladder truck before. This is a huge benefit to our community.”
One of the engines being taken out of service will be transferred to the Fire Training School for Recruit School and Apparatus Operator classes. The remaining vehicles will all be sold.
Chief Phelps also stated, “We appreciate the support of our Mayor, City Council, City Manager, and our citizens. This is a major investment by the City of Anniston, and we’re proud of what it means for our firefighters and the people we serve.”
