New lighting was added to the truck for greater illumination at night.  

"When equipment gets old, it also becomes less reliable," Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Contro; District Chief Ben Mickuleit  said. "Reliability is important. These new engines are equipped with a 1,000-gallon internal water tank for a quick fire attack and a rear booster reel (1-inch rubber fire hose) for a quicker attack on certain fire scenarios.

The batteries, along with a chainsaw, forcible entry saw and a portable radio were stolen from the District 15 station near Hookers Bend Community sometime between Sunday and Tuesday, Martin said. The stolen items are valued at between $1,500 to $2,000.  

Other stations were able to respond to the house fire, which occurred at a Hardin County firefighter's home. The fire was contained to the kitchen and is thought to be accidental, though it is still under investigation.