June 19, 2024 3:20 a.m.

The Winston-Dillard Fire District is one of the first fire agencies to get a new water tender as part of a program from the Oregon State Fire Marshals Office.

An OSFM release said the initial deliveries mark a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to enhance firefighting capabilities and protect communities from the growing wildfire crisis.

Two other agencies- Amity Fire District and Cloverdale Rural Fire Protection District – have received water tenders, which are the first of 30 that will be distributed across the state, boosting resources available to local structural fire agencies.

The state fire marshal purchased 76 apparatus as part of the OSFM Engine Program, including 26 Type 3 engines, 20 Type 6 engines, and 30 water tenders. To date, eight type 3 engines have been delivered, with more expected to arrive throughout the summer. Deliveries of water tenders and type 6 engines will continue through the coming weeks.

Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said, “We are thrilled to see the first of these new water tenders delivered to our fire districts”. Ruiz-Temple said, “This program represents a significant investment in the safety of our communities and the effectiveness of our firefighting efforts”.

The release said the OSFM Engine Program is funded through 2021’s Senate Bill 762. The goal is to modernize equipment within the Oregon structural fire service, ensuring local fire agencies have the necessary tools to effectively combat wildfires and protect lives and property.

Pictures of the water tender being delivered to the Winston-Dillard Fire District are linked with this story at www.541radio.com.