After about 10 years of saving, the Crestwood Fire Department purchased a new fire truck.
The new truck – known as a “pumper” in the industry – is a 2024 Pierce Enforcer Puk Pumper with Tak 4 Suspension. It has a 750-gallon water tank and a 1500 gallon per minute pump that allows fire personnel to pump water while the truck is moving. Its suspension also gives the truck a 50-degree cramp angle, making it easier to maneuver in situations with tight turns, increased traffic and/or high speed. It also has better stopping capabilities than previous pumpers owned by the department.
“These vehicles are highly customized, and the specifications were prepared by a committee of our firefighters,” Crestwood City Administrator Kris Simpson said. “The truck was made in America, (and) we received many progress photos from their manufacturing plant in Appleton, Wisconsin, with employees working on the truck. The new truck has several modern features that will improve performance, safety and reliability, including better overall lighting, (and) plenty of exterior cameras to assist with driving.”
The last truck the city bought was a 2013 Smeal in 2014. In April 2022, the fire department and Board of Aldermen passed an ordinance to purchase a new firetruck – the Pierce Enforcer Puk Pumper with Tak 4 Suspension – from McQueen Equipment LLC d/b/a/ McQueen Emergency Group, though acquiring it was a bit delayed due to lingering effects of COVID-19, along with supply and demand issues on some of the parts and a backorder on trucks being built.
The average lifespan of a firetruck is eight to 15 years. Since they can be costly, sometimes exceeding $1 million, the city began saving money for a new truck almost immediately after purchasing the 2013 Smeal in 2014. Since buying the new pumper, Crestwood has already started saving for the next truck, which will be purchased in about 10 years.
First responders awards
Crestwood first responders were also recent recipients of various awards.
Deputy Chief Larry Ostertag was recognized by the Southwest Area Chamber of Commerce at its annual First Responders Appreciation Luncheon for his dedication to the department and the city, handling the EMS division and launching the ambulance service.
Crestwood Police Department’s Kay Blasé and Rose Stahlman were also honored by the Chamber for their excellent service and actions taken while on duty.
Crestwood Fire Department’s Lt. Sam Biesterfield was also recently awarded the Kiwanis Club’s First Responder of the Month.
“(He) was recognized for his dedication to the city and the department and his efforts with the health and wellness committee, setting up programs to improve the health and wellness for the firefighters and paramedics to make sure everyone goes home safely,” Chief Leo Meyer said.