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New Structural Protection Unit adds extra layer of protection against wildfires

A shiny new red trailer rolled into Golden on Oct. 16 and went straight to the Golden Fire Department.
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Regional Fire Services Co-ordinator Kenn Mount

A shiny new red trailer rolled into Golden on Oct. 16 and went straight to the Golden Fire Department.

The Type 2 Structure Protection Unit Trailer, funded by the Columbia Shuswap Regional District along with a substantial grant from the Columbia Basin Trust, is designed to provide some extra protection to structures on the edge of a wild fire.

The $78,000 piece of equipment provides firefighters the tools to protect these priority zones with sprinklers, bladders and a hydrant kit.

“It’s a wonderful tool, and can be quite effective if we get lots of warning,” said Golden Fire Chief Ken McClure.

The unit will be shared between multiple fire departments including Golden, Nicholson and Revelstoke. Regional Fire Services Co-ordinator for the CSRD, Kenn Mount, brought the trailer to Golden last week because he wanted to get it over the Roger’s Pass before winter, and allow the fire departments to start training with it.

“We’ve been trying for a few years to get a unit like this, so we’ll be ready for the fire season next year,” said Mount.

The unit can help protect 25 to 30 homes, depending on the span.

“It’s important to remember that it is just a tool, it won’t prevent a fire. But it is a valuable piece of equipment to have,” said McClure.