DERBY – On Nov. 12 the Derby Fire Department passed along the keys to retired Engine 12 to Assistant Chief of Operations Matt Marcarelli of the New Haven Regional Fire Training Academy.
Derby replaced the 1989 canopy-cab pumper truck with a modern, state-of the-art closed-cab truck in accordance with recommendations by the National Fire Protection Association.
Funds for the purchase of the new truck were allocated under the city’s capital plan, which provides for long-term capital expenditures.
The donation of the retired pumper was in exchange for four years of training at the New Haven Regional Fire Training Academy’s burn facility for compulsory live structure fires.
The training facility on Ella T. Grasso Boulevard in New Haven is only one of three in the state that can conduct live-burning exercises.
Marcarelli said the training facility has been in need of a fire pump for training purposes, but hasn’t been able to acquire one due to financial reasons.
Now, with Derby’s donation, firefighters around the state will be able to train on equipment similar to what they are using in their departments today, while avoiding the logistical challenge of bringing other trucks into the facility.
Dugatto praised the transaction. “There are so many upsides to this agreement," she said. "Most importantly, however, is that Derby’s firefighters will have the opportunity to train, at no cost to the city, in areas critical to their safety and that of our citizens."
The exchange received the required approval from Derby’s Board of Aldermen.
“We saw this opportunity as a win-win situation,” said Board President Art Gerckens.
Both the Mayor and President of the Board of Aldermen praised Fire Commissioner Michael Kelleher for his stewardship of the project.
This is a press release from Mayor Dugatto's office.
