What's Happening in Irving, TX…

Pierce Manufacturing, Inc., which makes all types of fire equipment, recently delivered four new pieces of equipment to the Irving Fire Department.

According to a December 5 news article, the department took delivery of a Dash CF 105-foot unit, commonly called a hook-and-ladder; as well as three Dash CF Pumpers, the more traditional fire truck. Irving is one of six Dallas-Fort Worth area departments to buy Pierce trucks in the last 18 months.

Tony Harvey, Irving's assistant fire chief, says one reason for choosing the Pierce truck is that the cab is roomy enough to accommodate the driver and officer personnel comfortably, since complaints about cramped quarters are common. The model is extremely maneuverable, which helps firefighters get into the many apartment complexes in Irving.

The Dash CF 105 is a ‘straight stick’ designed to carry a great deal of rescue equipment and tools. Harvey notes that there are a lot of compartments on all the new equipment, and there is a place for everything. This means that firefighters have everything they need with them, and can find it easily because it is well-organized. Harvey adds that having all the equipment they need with them makes the department more responsive and effective.

Fire department officials could work with a postcard printing company to create a card for mailing to residents, announcing the acquisition and how it will improve community safety.