| On Tuesday, June 16, the Fire Department conducted a training exercise at the New River to practice with a new piece of equipment known as a Turbo Draft. This device is designed to help supply water to fire trucks, especially in rural areas where hydrants may not be available. The Turbo Draft uses both a three-inch and a four- to five-inch hose to deliver water efficiently. The Turbo Draft is capable of providing up to 600 gallons of water per minute when operated properly. The department plans to use this equipment in creeks, rivers, and ponds to support water shuttle operations during large fires. This new capability will allow firefighters to better respond to emergencies where water access is limited. The department first learned about the Turbo Draft during a training session last fall. Thanks to ongoing community support, the department was able to purchase this equipment, which is expected to significantly enhance operations and improve firefighter safety. |