Lyle Fire & Rescue Seeks Community Support to Buy New Tender
Photo from What’s Happening in Lyle by Marty Denis.
By Cole Goodwin
Lyle, WA, July 28, 2023— The Lyle Fire & Rescue District #4 needs help raising $55,000 to replace their aging water-carrying vehicle, affectionately known as "Tender #405" which has served the community valiantly for 39 years, and is in dire need of retirement due to its deteriorating condition.
“This Tender proudly participated in the Tunnel 5 fire protecting homes, and along with one of our Brush Rigs, was the sole source of water during the structure protection. This Tender was also instrumental in the Lyle Hill Fire 2 years ago, Unfortunately, #405 is also really getting up there in years and total miles (over 500,000), needs frequent repairs, is difficult to drive (16 speed manual transmission) and is really tough to get up and down hills throughout the Gorge,” said Lyle Fire officials.
Since the aging Tender is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain and operate Lyle Fire is now in the process of negotiating the purchase of a used water tender to replace #405. The new vehicle will come with significant improvements, including an automatic transmission, meaning a larger number of Lyle Fire members will be able to qualify to drive it.
The estimated total cost for the new Tender, including transportation, tax, title, license, and a final inspection, stands at approximately $90,000. To fund this important upgrade, the district plans to take out a loan for $55,000 while utilizing their savings for the remaining amount. However, their hope is to avoid taking out a loan.
“We would love to raise enough so that we don’t have to take out the loan and save those funds,” read the Lyle Fire press release.
To donate to Lyle Fire & Rescue call the station at 509-365-2500, email them at lylefire@lylefire.com or send cash or check made payable to Lyle Fire #4 or KCFPD#4 to PO Box 63, Lyle, WA 98535 Donations can be mailed to PO Box 63, Lyle, WA 98635. For added convenience, individuals may also arrange to meet someone from the fire station in person to submit their donation. All contributions are tax-deductible, and donors will receive a receipt for their records.
The Lyle Fire & Rescue District #4 expressed their gratitude to the community for its ongoing support and emphasized that every contribution, regardless of size, makes a significant difference in safeguarding the well-being of Lyle and its residents.
Ai was used in the development of this story,
