With funding provided by Roanoke Electric Cooperative and the USDA Rural Economic Development Loan Program, Gaston Fire-Rescue-EMS has purchased a 2020 Rosenbauer Custom Top Mount Pumper with Commander Chassis.
This apparatus is the most expensive and the most technologically advanced piece of firefighting equipment in all of Northampton County, according to Assistant Chief Edward Porter III.
With all its equipment, this fire engine well exceeds $500,000 in value and is equipped with safety features such as a seat belt warning system and data recording system.
Engine 12, as the apparatus has been named, will be able to carry eight firefighters to the scene of an emergency and will be able to aid the citizens of rural Northampton County.
The new apparatus will replace a nearly 20-year-old apparatus and will be the primary response vehicle for all fires within the area.
A wetdown ceremony will be held November 17 at 2 p.m. at the main station in Gaston. “This will be a joyous occasion for our community as we mark a milestone in our department.”