On Wednesday, July 12, Rigaud's fire department took delivery of its brand-new pumper-tanker. This investment of more than $819,000 will replace equipment dating back more than 30 years, including a 1991 pumper and a 1992 tanker, whose functionalities and specificities could only be used for around 50% of fire calls.

Over the past 5 years, the fire team has been called out to more than 1,100 fires. The most recent fires are a reminder of the importance of having the best strike capability right from the start of the response.

This need is all the more important given the effects of climate change on soils, vegetation and water sources, dried out by warming and the absence of precipitation in both summer and winter.

Planned commissioning in August

"Built by Canada's oldest family-owned fire truck manufacturer, Camions Carl Thibault, the new truck meets the department's current needs," says the city in a press release.

It is equipped with a pump capable of delivering 1,050 imperial gallons (approx. 4,773 liters) per minute and a water tank with a capacity of 1,500 imperial gallons (approx. 6,819 liters) with rapid discharge, making it possible to transport both water and members of the team dedicated to this task, to all sectors of Rigaud, whether or not they are served by the municipal water supply network.

Its cab, fitted with a particle filtration system and 5 breathing apparatus, provides additional protection for the 6 team members who can fit inside, and stores all the documents and equipment required for water supply and fire-fighting operations.

It can also be deployed on almost 99% of fire calls, compared with its predecessor.

Commissioning of the truck is scheduled for August 2023.