The Village of Masset is moving to replace its aging fire department rescue truck, with costs ranging from $50,000 for a used unit to as much as $277,000 for a purpose-built replacement.
A report to council says the current rescue truck is about 30 years old and no longer reliable for emergency response. The vehicle, originally outfitted by BC Hydro before being transferred to Masset, has been in local service for roughly two decades and is now showing significant wear.
According to the report, the truck has ongoing mechanical issues, including rusted mounts, a failing battery that cannot keep up with emergency lighting systems, and aging tires in need of replacement. Its manual transmission also limits the number of firefighters able to operate it, reducing flexibility during emergency calls.
“With all these issues the fire department can no longer rely on the truck to be an effective rescue unit,” the report notes, recommending replacement this year.
Council is being asked to support an application to the Gwaii Trust Major Contributions grant program for up to $100,000 to help fund a new unit.
Three replacement options have been identified. A used rescue truck could cost between $50,000 and $80,000 but may come with higher maintenance needs. A new stock truck build is estimated at $140,000 to $150,000. A fully purpose-built rescue truck, designed for local conditions and equipment, could reach approximately $277,000.
The report also notes that the fire department’s other engines will need replacement within the next few years, pointing to broader equipment pressures facing the volunteer service.
If approved, staff will continue refining the project budget and seek additional funding sources to support the purchase.
