The ballistic gear includes; helmets, plate carrier, and soft trauma protection. Having the ballistic gear marks the first time the department has been able to add protection for its personnel in the event of an active shooter, or violent incident.  

It is a sad day that we have to have this type of protection, but is imperative we ensure our personnel are safe, so they can perform their duties and protect the public.

The new rope rescue equipment will replace several old, and worn components of our rescue gear, and upgrade all first out response units with longer reach capabilities, more advanced technology, and quicker deployments.

Chief Terry Williams says when he took over the department in 2013, rebuilding this station was one of his top priorities. Since then, MFD has managed to save more than $1.8 million to make this happen.  

"Today our trucks are much larger than they were 60 years ago. We have more people at the station than we did 60 years ago. Our stations are constantly used. Somebody is there in and out all day every day and we've basically worn it out," said Chief Williams.

Phase 1 was planning and designing the new station. MFD already purchased the lot directly behind the current station to expand and become more efficient.

Phase 2 rests in the hands of the city council.

This truck isn't specific to only stopping brush fires, but can be used within the city if disaster strikes.  

Even in a moist year, this could all change as the summer moves forward. If a drought hits, plants like cheatgrass and sage brush will be an even bigger issue because they were able to flourish during the wet season.