The Redwood Meadows fire department has officially added a new water tanker to its fleet, marking an important milestone in the department’s recovery after losing its previous tanker in a fire last month.
The new tanker was purchased by the community using insurance funds and was formally introduced to the community during a push-in ceremony held on Jan. 20. The event drew firefighters, elected officials, and residents together to celebrate the return of a critical piece of emergency response equipment.
Redwood Meadows firefighters lost their former tanker in mid-December when a fire partially destroyed the community’s fire hall. The blaze caused significant damage to the building and apparatus, temporarily displacing equipment and operations. According to Redwood Meadows Emergency Services, the fire is believed to have been caused by an electrical fault, though investigations into the incident were conducted to ensure no ongoing safety concerns remained.
In the immediate aftermath of the fire, Redwood Meadows Emergency Services relied on mutual aid agreements with neighbouring departments to maintain emergency coverage. Fire crews from nearby communities, including Chestermere, provided assistance to ensure that residents continued to receive timely fire protection and emergency response during the disruption.
The arrival of the new tanker restores an essential capability for the department, particularly in a community where access to large volumes of water can be critical during structure fires, grass fires, and other emergencies. Water tankers are especially important in areas without extensive hydrant networks, allowing firefighters to transport and supply water directly to emergency scenes.
Tuesday’s push-in ceremony followed a long-standing firefighting tradition that dates back to the era of horse-drawn fire apparatus. Historically, once a fire call was complete, firefighters were required to physically push engines back into the fire hall by hand after unhitching the horses. Modern push-in ceremonies honour that history, symbolizing teamwork, service, and the safe return of equipment to the station.
During the ceremony, firefighters and community members worked together to push the new tanker into its bay, marking its official entry into service. The event also served as a public show of gratitude and resilience following a challenging period for the department.
Following the ceremony, Redwood Meadows Emergency Services expressed appreciation to the community and local leadership for their support. The department thanked the mayor and council, community members, and firefighters from both Redwood Meadows and neighbouring jurisdictions for attending and supporting what was described as a historic and meaningful occasion.
The December fire and subsequent recovery have highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in emergency services across Rocky View County. Mutual aid agreements allow departments to share resources and personnel during emergencies, ensuring that no single community is left without protection when unexpected events occur.
While repairs to the fire hall continue, the addition of the new tanker represents a tangible step forward for Redwood Meadows Emergency Services. Officials say the department remains committed to maintaining high standards of readiness and public safety, even in the face of unforeseen setbacks.
For residents of Redwood Meadows, the ceremony offered reassurance that local emergency services are rebuilding and adapting. The presence of the new tanker on the road and back in service strengthens the department’s ability to respond effectively to emergencies and reinforces the close connection between the fire service and the community it serves.
As the tanker now sits ready in its bay, firefighters say it stands as both a practical asset and a symbol of resilience, teamwork, and continued dedication to protecting Redwood Meadows and the surrounding area.
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