Chief Dave Cravens has big plans for his department and since becoming chief last year has moved quickly to address several key improvements for the department. He added leadership positions, creatively replaced aging fire apparatus, and now has his sights set on renovating the company's headquarters and home of Station 1. Cravens has also invested in equipment and PPE for his firefighters.

Apart from offering a modern station, the new building is designed to improve firefighting service and response time in Medford. The station will have the newest fire engine in the department's fleet, bought at a cost of $700,000. Both the station and fire engine were recently put into service.

The rig was the first the department has purchased since 2006. The acquisition was made possible by a FEMA grant of $212,000. Total cost of the fire apparatus was $248,000. The city provided a 5 percent match to the $212,000 from FEMA. The new truck will be used primarily for structure fires.

The rig was reportedly was struck while blocking a lane of traffic at the accident scene. The engine’s wheel and tire were damaged in the crash.

Vigilance is key. Apparatus don't always have to be moving for them to be involved in a crash. blind curves or civilians just not paying attention are the causes for many crashes involving stationary fire apparatus.