Crews with the Edson Fire Department have received a new Structure Protection Unit (SPU) that could be used to protect the community in the event of a wildfire.
Officials say the SPU arrived in town last week and has been incorporated into the existing fleet. Crews say the SPU consists of several pumps, sprinklers, hoses and other equipment that can be used to protect homes in the community during a wildfire.
“The new SPU will allow crews to quickly and efficiently set up sprinkler protection around the community to help protect homes in the event of an approaching wildfire,” says Edson Fire Chief Brad Milton. “It’s an effective tool that can help reduce the impact of fire and embers and help prevent the loss of homes and other important infrastructure.”
“With the wildfire emergencies of 2023, and the increasing fire behaviour in recent years, this project was a priority for council as we move to increase Edson’s emergency preparedness,” says Edson Mayor Kevin Zahara. “Having this equipment on hand will give our fire crews the resources they need to act quickly to protect homes in our community.”
photo provided by Town of Edson Administration
The Edson Fire Department requested funding for the SPU in 2023, with council approving $250,000.00 that was held over to 2024 due to manufacturing and delivery times. Officials say the final cost of the SPU was approximately $215,000.00.
Crews say they will be testing the Structure Protection Unit over the next few weeks, as well as conducting some practical Wildland Urban Interface training.
