The Saint John Fire Department (SJFD) is marking its 50th anniversary of delivering dedicated rescue service with a brand new truck.

It all started in 1973 when Percy Clarke became Chief of the Saint John Fire Department. Clarke saw the increasing demand for fire-related rescue services, which prompted the creation of Rescue 3.

This unit began with a company officer and two firefighters, armed with specialized equipment and medical training, setting the stage for a groundbreaking method of emergency response.

This momentous occasion is further highlighted by a new state-of-the-art rescue unit, enhancing the department’s emergency response capabilities.

The Typhoon Class apparatus from E-One has successfully undergone acceptance testing and commissioning and is currently housed at Station 4 on Courtney Avenue.

Nicknamed “Anywhere, Anytime,” Fire Chief Rob Nichol said the $1.4-million truck was secured thanks to the teamwork of council, CAO Brent McGovern, city leaders and many dedicated city employees.

“When you have a truck in service for 15 to 20 years, the cost certainly comes down,” said Nichol about the purchase of a new truck.

Nichol said the truck is equipped to respond to a wide range of incidents, including structure fires, collisions requiring the Jaws of Life, industrial incidents, HAZMAT calls and medical emergencies.

He emphasized that Rescue 4 positions the department to effectively address the changing demands of the city for many years to come.