A bright red, shiny, new fire truck has been on many a youngsters’ letters to Santa, but no toy compares to the real thing.  That’s exactly what was unveiled on Thursday by the Sheboygan Fire Department.  Engine 1864 was placed into service at noon yesterday at Fire Station 4, replacing a 29-year-old unit, and is expected to serve as a frontline apparatus for the next 10-15 years before being placed on reserve status.

Much has changed in nearly 30 years, and the new engine brings 21st Century firefighting and rescue capabilities to the SFD.  The new engine can pump 1500 gallons of water per minute with foam capabilities, and carries 750 gallons onboard.  It’s also outfitted with new jaws-of-life style apparatus and advanced life support equipment that can provide paramedic-level care until an ambulance arrives at the scene.

Engine 1864 doesn’t come cheap; its $810,000 price tag was included in the Five-year Capital Improvement Program approved last year by the Common Council.  And about that bright red color – it’s still there, but it’s now the first unit with a striking black-over-red color scheme being transitioned to throughout the department.

A Front View of The Sheboygan Fire Department’s New Engine 1864

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