The Winder Fire Department has added a new 100-foot platform truck to its fleet, expanding the department's ability to respond to fires and rescues involving taller buildings and other elevated structures.

The truck officially entered service on Aug. 3 and will be stationed at Fire Station 1 on Broad Street.

Winder’s new Truck 1, built by E-One in Ocala, Florida, is the City’s first platform truck and first 100-ft aerial. It will be used in firefighting operations, elevated rescues and high-angle rescues.

“This is going to be beneficial in the downtown Winder area as well as some of the larger commercial areas and larger residential areas we have coming into the City,” said Winder FD Driver Engineer, William Reidling.

“This truck gives our firefighters the ability to safely reach places we couldn't before. As Winder continues to grow, having the right equipment is critical to protecting our residents, businesses and firefighters,” said Fire Chief Matt Whiting. 

The new addition will also help with credit for the Fire Department’s Public Protection Classification (PPC). Assigned by the Insurance Services Office (ISO), PPC is a rating that assesses how effectively a local fire department can protect its community. Insurance companies use PPC to determine property insurance premiums, with strong fire protection warding lower property insurance premiums.