The vehicle will be used as a medical response/ rescue support vehicle.

PIERCETON — The Pierceton-Washington Township Fire Department will soon be responding in a new apparatus.

The new truck is a replacement for the aging light rescue unit. The department had been looking for a replacement since early 2018. After much discussion on what would best fit the needs of the department, the decision was made to look for a smaller, late model vehicle that could be converted to fit the department needs. The township provided a budget that could be used without incurring any debt or tax increases. 

According to Pierceton Fire Chief Gordon Baker, the department looked at many types of commercially made vehicles but found that most prices exceeded the budget. 

“It just did not make sense to spend $100,000 on something that could be converted locally,” said Gordon.

The department located a 2015 certified Dodge 2500 crew cab with low miles. Since the vehicle is a factory-certified vehicle, it has a warranty until 2023. The vehicle was purchased in Chesterton for $26,000 and was picked up on Nov. 23. After receiving quotes for the conversion, the truck was taken to a local shop for that process. The total cost of the project will come in at $36,000, well below the cost of a new apparatus and well below the township budget. 

The vehicle will be used as a medical response/ rescue support vehicle.