The Garibaldi Volunteer Fire Department (GVFD) upgraded the firefighting fleet with a new wildland truck.
With funds provided by the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) as well as the Whistler Blackcomb Foundation, Woodfibre LNG and the GVFD Society, the crew was able to purchase the new vehicle.
The SLRD contributed $100,000 while the Whistler Blackcomb Foundation chipped in $35, 000 and Woodfibre LNG contributed $20,000. The GVFD Society pitched in $10,000.
“This new truck increases the capacity of the department and better positions the SLRD fire services to confront this growing risk,” said SLRD Electoral Area D director, Tony Rainbow, in a news release. “We’re fortunate to have a team of dedicated volunteers who are committed to serving the community, and we’re grateful to them and the work that they do.”
The truck itself is a rapid response vehicle that is specifically designed to transport firefighters, water, pumps, hoses and other equipment to the scene.
The GFVD Chief called the truck a “game-changer.”
“It will enable us to respond quickly and safely to call-outs, especially in the backcountry,” said Chief Dan Ross in the release. “We are extremely grateful to the SLRD and all our community partners that came together to make this purchase a reality for the GVFD.”
The vehicle was unveiled at a ceremony on Nov. 28 and was attended by numerous representatives from the GVFD and SLRD. The SLRD manages two volunteer fire departments in Howe Sound East/Area D: the GVFD and the Britannia Beach Volunteer Fire Department.
*Please note, this story has been updated with more information on how much the donors contributed.
