Five new fire trucks went into active service on Thursday, Feb. 27, for the Township of 91原创. 

As part of major investments into the fire department by council, one truck was assigned to Fire Hall 3 in Aldergrove, Hall 5 in Brookswood, and Hall 8 in Walnut Grove. Two trucks were assigned to Fire Hall 6 in Murrayville. 

Township Mayor Eric Woodward said the new fire trucks are a "crucial step in ensuring the safety of our growing community." 

"By equipping our Fire Department with the resources they need, we鈥檙e strengthening our ability to respond effectively and protect residents across the Township," he said. 

Fire Chief Jason de Roy said he's grateful for the council's support. 

"We appreciate council鈥檚 ongoing support and investments, ensuring we have the firefighters, infrastructure, and equipment needed to keep our community safe," de Roy said. 

The new trucks were welcomed with a "push-in" ceremony on Thursday afternoon, a time-honoured tradition dating back to the 18th Century when firefighters had to manually push horse-drawn steam engines into the station. 

By the 19th Century, motorized engines became available and didn't need to be pushed in, but firefighters continue the tradition to honour new trucks going into service. 

In January, the Township recruited 11 new firefighers under  an expansion plan approved earlier this term by the 91原创 Township council. Eventually, more than 40 firefighter positions will be added to the Township's department. 

The Township also plans to build a new fire hall in Brookswood-Fernridge, which is expected to open in 2026.