Lyle Fire & Rescue Gains Ground in "Lose the Loan" Campaign for New Water Tender
Community Support Pours In for Essential Firefighting Equipment
By Cole Goodwin
Lyle, WA, August 11, 2023 – Lyle Fire & Rescue District #4's has received $35,890 towards their $55,000 goal to replace their aging water tender, which has served the community for nearly four decades.
The old tender has played a crucial role in safeguarding homes during emergencies, including the Tunnel 5 fire. As a primary source of water for firefighting, it has been a reliable workhorse has earned its place in Lyle's firefighting history. However, its age has caught up with it, surpassing 500,000 miles and requiring frequent repairs. The uphill battle of maintaining the vehicle so that it can navigate the Gorge's terrain with a 16-speed manual transmission has highlighted the urgency of retiring Tender #405.
The response from the community has been resounding, a testament to the strong bonds that tie Lyle together.
In an email to CCCNews.com Patty Elkins, EMT and Community Liaison for Lyle Fire & Rescue Dist. 4, shared some inspiring news about the fundraiser.
“The great response from our community has allowed us to go ahead and process the down payment for the purchase, and to coordinate the delivery to Lyle. We anticipate the tender arriving in Lyle the third or fourth week in August,” said Elkins.
The new vehicle, set to replace Tender #405, comes with significant upgrades, including an automatic transmission that will enable more members of Lyle Fire & Rescue to operate it. The total cost for the replacement, including transportation, taxes, licensing, and a final inspection, is estimated at approximately $90,000. While a loan of $55,000 is in consideration, the district's ultimate goal is to eliminate the need for this loan through community support.
Lyle Fire & Rescue has plans in the works to host a community-wide celebration once the fundraising is complete as a way to celebrate increased preparedness and express their gratitude to the community.
While the exact date is yet to be determined, the event will stand as a testament to the unwavering support from Lyle's tight-knit community.
As wildfires continue to pose a threat to the region, Lyle Fire & Rescue remains at the forefront of protecting lives and property. "Every time we get paged out mutual aid to these fires, one of the key requests is to bring a tender as they function as our main water source when fighting these fires," explained Elkins. The significance of the water tender as a vital firefighting tool cannot be overstated.
For those wishing to contribute to the "Lose the Loan" campaign and support Lyle Fire & Rescue District #4's mission, donations can be made by calling the station at 509-365-2500, emailing CommunityLiaison@lylefire.com, or sending cash or checks to PO Box 63, Lyle, WA 98635. Additionally, arrangements can be made to submit donations in person. All donations are confidential unless the donor specifies that their name may be used.
Stay tuned for updates on the upcoming community celebration and the arrival of the new water tender!
AI was used in the development of this article.
