Chief John Beckley Jr. said the new truck offers the department needed services.

“It holds 300 gallons of water and pumps 1,000 gallons per minute,” he said. “It also carries the jaws of life, which are new to the department.”

The truck is equipped with a 40-gallon foam tank and carries four Scott air packs.

Beckley noted the truck is a welcome addition.

“This truck replaced a 1983 Chevrolet, which was the first new truck the department purchased,” he said. “It is also replacing an army vehicle we used in the last few years.”

The FEMA grant provided $185,000 toward the purchase price. The department provided a five percent match, or $8,800.

To date, the department has raised approximately $776,000 towards that goal, with the City of Cherokee the largest benefactor with its $500,000 contribution.

Video shows the toddler standing on a small chair in his room to peer out the window. Moments later, he alerts his parents in the most adorable way.