Tamaqua’s South Ward Fire Company has put the finishing touches on its newest apparatus, a 2017 Pierce Saber Chassis, with rescue body, Class A Pumper. Engine 784 is NFPA compliant and is capable of pumping 1500 gallons of water per minute. It also holds 750 gallons of water and 30 gallons of foam.

The new truck was made possible through a FEMA grant in excess of $400,000. The fire company raised $46,000 as a local match for the federal grant.Equipped with all LED lights, the pumper sports some new equipment, but firefighters salvaged as much as possible from their former engine. That truck will be sold, but won’t be able to be used in the fire service, a condition that’s part of the federal grant.“Trucks age and fall out of compliance over the years,” says Chief Mark Bower. “We were able to transfer a lot of our old equipment because it still meets industry standards. Ladders, hoses and other items must be tested each and every year to ensure its safe to use”.The all volunteer company has about 40 active members, 5 junior members and 5 members who serve with the Tamaqua Fire Police. Of that number, 14 members have completed the Emergency Vehicle Operators Course (EVOC) and are qualified to drive the new rig.The new Engine 784 made its first official response on Friday, Sept. 8, for a reported kitchen fire.Anyone interested in learning more about the department or becoming a volunteer firefighter may call 570-668-1650 or visit the station on truck night, every Thursday at 7 p.m.