One thing that influenced the department’s push for a new engine was HVFD’s ISO rating, which affects residents’ insurance rates. Not having a reserve engine was something that negatively affected the rating.
   Since Engine 11 is still functional, it will be fully maintained and put on reserve status. In a scenario where HVFD needs to call for mutual aid, they will also have an additional engine they can utilize themselves.
   Having a reserve engine also means that it can be used if another is out of commission. The Amherst department, for example, is also in the Holyoke Fire Protection District. It uses an engine almost identical to the one going into reserve, so it will be a seamless backup if needed.