ESCANABA TOWNSHIP - A $37,500 grant from the Hannaville Indian Community was used by Escanaba Township Fire Department toward the purchase of a new 3,000-gallon tanker truck, valued at $180,000.
Escanaba Township Supervisor Kevin Dubord said the addition of the truck brings the township fire department's moving water capacity to 8,500 gallons.
"Which I believe is the largest in the Upper Peninsula, between its four tanker trucks," he added.
The new Pierce Contender 3,000-gallon tanker is replacing a 1986 1,800-gallon tanker, which was purchased by the Masonville Township Fire Department.
The new tanker features a diesel engine, in addition to a rear dump valve that can be turned to force water from either side of the truck or the rear of the truck, allowing firefighters to dump water into a portable ground tank.
To celebrate the purchase of the new tanker, Escanaba Township Fire Department is hosting an open house from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, said Dubord.
"The open house is intended for anyone who is interested in viewing our new tanker truck along with the other equipment used by the fire department in keeping our citizens safe," said Dubord.
Hot dogs and sloppy joes will be served, in addition to demonstrations conducted by the members of the Escanaba Township Fire Department.
Residents of Escanaba Township are also encouraged to stop by during the open house.
"Residents can also see photos of the fire trucks owned by the Escanaba Township Fire Department, in addition to other information relating to the township, on our Web page at www.escanabatownship.org," said Dubord.