Baker City Firefighters address city’s fire engine rotation requirements

BAKER CITY – Over the past several days, Baker City’s Firefighters have been receiving questions from the public regarding a new city council plan to require rotation between the fire department’s new, and old fire engines. Going forward, the Baker City Fire Department will rotate between the department’s 2007 fire engine and its new 2026 fire engine every three months to better reduce long-term wear. In a recent post, Baker City Firefighters L922 offered a more extensive public response to the recent questions:

“Over the past several days, we have received a number of questions from community members regarding the planned rotation of fire apparatus within the Baker City Fire Department. For those who may be unaware, the Baker City Council has implemented a plan to rotate the department’s new 2026 fire engine, received in January of this year, with the department’s 2007 engine, which was acquired last year from Salem Fire Department.

1) Why will crews be switching from the 2026 fire engine to the 2007 fire engine every three months?

According to the current plan established by the Baker City Council, the rotation is intended to distribute usage between both apparatuses in an effort to reduce long-term wear and tear.

2) Does the 2007 fire engine have the same operational capabilities as the 2026 fire engine?

No. The 2007 fire engine carries approximately 500 gallons of water, while the 2026 fire engine carries approximately 1,000 gallons. Additionally, the 2026 engine includes newer safety enhancements and larger equipment compartments, which may improve firefighter safety and operational efficiency.

3) Does the 2007 fire engine offer the same reliability as the 2026 fire engine?

The 2007 engine currently has approximately 160,000 miles, while the 2026 engine has approximately 8,000 miles and remains under warranty for three years. The 2007 engine has experienced mechanical issues in the past, though those concerns have reportedly been addressed. At this time, there are no definitive facts that can guarantee which engine will be more reliable over time.

4) Was the decision to rotate engines every three months made by the fire department?

No. The rotation plan was established by the Baker City Council. The fire department did not make this decision.

We hope this information helps provide clarity regarding the current apparatus rotation plan and answers many of the questions being asked by community members. Our priority is ensuring that accurate information is shared in a transparent and professional manner.“

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Elkhorn Media Group