Athabasca County Fire Services has officially brought two new brush trucks into service ahead of the 2026 fire season. The new units will be stationed in Colinton and Rochester, replacing end-of-life apparatus currently serving those communities.
Used primarily for wildland firefighting, the new brush trucks are built on four-wheel-drive crew cab long box trucks and are equipped with slide-in skid units that include the tank, pump, hose reel, toolboxes, and other essential firefighting equipment. This design allows the skid to be removed and transferred to another truck if needed, helping extend the life and flexibility of the equipment. The units can transfer water to more remote areas that heavier units are unable to access due to strong offroad capabilities. The units also meet Alberta provincial guidelines as Type 6 engines.
Athabasca County Council supported the purchase as part of its ongoing commitment to maintaining effective emergency response services across the region. The two units were purchased for less than the cost of some single comparable units considered during the review process, making them a cost-effective investment for the County.
“We are excited to bring these new units into service.” said Athabasca County Fire Services Deputy Chief Travis Krahn. “Not only will they help protect our residents and neighbouring communities, but they will also enhance the safety of our firefighters who put their lives on the line every day. Their versatility allows us to use them in a variety of situations, supporting response efforts beyond just wildland fires.”
The trucks also feature a new decal design and numbering system that will be introduced on future units. Larger unit numbers improve visibility at night and from a distance, while roof markings allow aircraft to identify the vehicles more easily during wildfire response.
“These new brush trucks are an important investment in the safety of our communities and the effectiveness of our Fire Services team,” said Reeve Tracy Holland. “As we head into fire season, having reliable, modern equipment in place helps ensure our firefighters are well supported and prepared to respond when needed.”
