Federal money buys backcountry engine

The county used approximately $475,000 in federal stimulus money to

buy a new Type 1 fire engine to improve backcountry protection.

The 21-ton fire truck can fight wildfires and structural blazes,

pump water from its 500-gallon tank or siphon it from ponds, pools or

other water sources, has a 24-foot extension ladder, carries full

medical gear and up to six firefighters. The county owns the engine,

which will be stationed in Warner Springs. It will also provide mutual

aid to neighboring communities.

In the past five years, the county has purchased 33 fire engines and

other equipment, and formed the San Diego County Fire Authority to

improve fire protection and emergency medical response throughout the

region.

For a complete list of the county’s stimulus-funded projects, visit www.recoverysdcounty.org.