The Trigg-Lyon Volunteer Fire Department has a new vehicle to fight fires. Using money from membership dues and fundraisers, the department bought and equipped a new Kubota RTV 900 all-wheel drive vehicle to transport firefighters and water where they are most needed.

“We saved up the money and bought it ourselves,” said Trigg-Lyon Chief Paul Carr. “We were turned down twice for a grant we applied for. As far as I am concerned, the whole community needs one. It’s handy to fight fires and handy to transport fire fighters. Before we got it, we had to walk.” He added that the total cost of the vehicle, transport trailer and equipment fell between $14,000 and $15,000.

Carr said that the off-road vehicle can transport three fire fighters equipped with rakes, water backpacks or other firefighting gear. The vehicle carries a 40-pound water tank complete with a motorized electric pump to re-supply firefighters in the field or to extinguish blazes independently. The vehicle carries a hydraulic chainsaw and a winch to move debris from its path or pull itself free from obstructions. He said that RTV 900 carries a radio to stay in contact with firefighters and command post, and a red flashing light for high visibility.

For more on the RTV 900, see yor Cadiz Record.