Elsie-Vinemaple RFPD has been chosen as the recipient of a 1994 Freightliner Fire Engine donated by the Banks, Oregon Fire Department.  The new engine, previously Banks Engine 15, will replace a 1974 Crown Engine donated by Seaside FD to EVRFPD in 1999.   It features a fully enclosed cab -- an important safety feature for the crew members - as well as automatic snow chains which will enable trucks to respond more quickly in snow and ice. 

EVRFPD Chief Michael Wammack and Captain Tanya Wammack were instrumental in acquiring the engine, working closely with Banks Chief Rodney Linz and Kari Erwert to submit a letter of request for the Engine to the Banks FD Board of Directors.  After a public hearing, the request was granted. The Banks FD then conducted a thorough mechanical, electrical, and instrument inspection on the truck to identify areas of needed repair, and generously completed those repairs and updates before presenting the truck to EVRFPD Board members and Chief Wammack on March 7.   Banks FD even had the Elsie-Vinemaple name and identifying numbers put on the Engine, so the truck is ready to be put into immediate service.

"Our crews are committed to providing the highest quality of service and care to those we serve, and having a newer, more reliable engine helps us achieve that goal," said Chief Wammack.  "It not only improves the safety, pride, and morale of our volunteer firefighters, but also benefits our mutual aid partners." Currently, EVRFPD has mutual aid agreements in place with Banks, Hamlet, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Gearhart, Lewis & Clark,  Mist-Birkenfeld, and Olney Walluski Fire Departments.

Elsie-Vinemaple Board President Wayne Carmichael noted the importance of the donation to our community.  "Our annual budget of $80,000  has to be stretched to cover rising inflation costs, apparatus and equipment,  insurance, 911 dispatch services, EMS Medical Director services, EMS supplies, training & equipment, fuel, and maintain three fire stations including heating, utilities, and basic maintenance.  Generous donations like this really make a difference in our ability to serve."

The 1974 Crown Engine served the department well for many years, but Crown Fire Coach went out of business shortly after that engine was built which made repairs difficult and costly.  The vintage Crown has been a popular feature at local parades, and will likely continue to be seen at special events.