Monticello replaces oldest fire engine, no longer fighting fires like its 1999
MONTICELLO, Ark. – For 25 years, one truck has been the first line of defense against fires in Monticello.
Engine 1 is a 1999 model fire truck. It was the last one bought by Monticello Fire Department Chief Eric Chisom’s father, the former chief.
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In 2024, any nostalgia for the look or feel cannot replace the most important part of a firefighter’s job: reliability. Chisom said something with the vehicle has always needed attention lately.
“The alternator actually went out when we were at a fire,” Chisom said. “While you’re pumping water with a truck and your alternator, you look at the dials on your truck, now you can’t spray water.”
It’s no secret it’s showing its age. A quarter century is longer than some people protected by the fire department can remember.
“I wasn’t born then,” University of Arkansas at Monticello student T.J. Fields admitted. “A truck that old. That’s crazy.”
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The new number one engine funded by city taxes has increased storage, interior storage lessening wear and tear, and backup cameras. Plus, it’s a 2024 model. However, the old truck still has a purpose. One station somewhere will still be fighting fires like it’s 1999.
“It’s served the city well, and I hope it continues to serve a rural department well, believe it or not they say it’s a newer or better truck than what they’re using,” Chisom said.
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