Del City Fire Department Gets New Brush Pumpers

The first burn ban of 2014 has been issued in Oklahoma for Stephens County. But more are expected as the wildfire season is just beginning. Fire crews across the state are gearing up for what is expected to be a severe year.

Several fires have broken out just over the past two days, which tells forestry services and fire crews now is the time to prepare.

"While it is beautiful weather, it's also drying weather," said State Forester Director George Geissler.

High winds, low humidity and dry vegetation are the fuel for wild land fires.

"If conditions continue and continue to dry out then it could be a little more severe," said Geissler.

More severe than last year when rain and ice storms kept moisture levels high and the flames down.

"They've been watered, they've grown, and now all that fuel is available," said Geissler.

State Forester George Geissler and his crews closely monitor all of Oklahoma, especially areas labeled a Wild land Urban Interface.

"There's an opportunity for wild land fires to start to creep in and have an impact on infrastructures," said Geissler.

Del City's boundaries fall under that label, which is reason enough for Major Brandon Purcell and Del City Fire to be prepared more than ever.

"Our guys are excited, looking at them they look mean and they look tough," said Major Brandon Purcell.

Two brand new brush pumpers, the truck of preference for fighting any wild land fire.

"Increase suspension, rugged tires to go off road," said Purcell.

One of the main features on the new trucks are bumper turrets. So when the firefighters are called out, they can control everything from right here in the driver's seat.

The trucks will also be used to spread aid as fast as the fires.

"Not only putting out fires in del city but assisting other agencies across Oklahoma," said Purcell.

Each brush pumper cost around $126,000 with everything included. They were purchased from a bond issue passed in 2011.