As reported by the Dracut Fire Department, a retired fire engine, previously in service in Dracut, Massachusetts, has been donated to the Cambita Fire Department in San Cristobal, Dominican Republic.
The Dracut Fire Department’s Engine 5, a 1993 E-One pumper, served for over three decades before becoming obsolete according to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.
In its place, Dracut Fire has acquired a new, state-of-the-art E-One pumper.
The department decided to donate the retired pumper to Cambita’s firefighting team instead of discarding it.
The truck, when delivered, included additional surplus equipment from the Dracut and Tyngsborough Fire Departments, such as hoses, self-contained breathing apparatus, and other gear necessary for emergency response.
The connection between the Dracut and Cambita Fire Departments has spanned approximately a decade, facilitated by paramedic and EMT instructor Chris Goring, who works with Emergency Response Training.
Through this partnership, Dracut has sent various firefighting supplies to Cambita, including protective equipment that, while outdated for North American standards, remains functional in the Dominican Republic, which lacks similar regulations.
Retired Chief Richard Patterson reflected on the longstanding support: “We formed a relationship with Cambita about 10 years ago through a mutual friend.
“The department lacked most all firefighting necessities, including protective gear. We have been sending outdated gear there for many years.”
Patterson emphasized the importance of supporting Cambita’s firefighters with essential equipment that might otherwise go unused in the United States.
Chief Eugenio Peñalo of the Cambita Fire Department confirmed that the donation required no financial outlay from Dracut, as the Cambita team utilized grants and local donations to cover transportation costs for the engine.
This donation will bolster Cambita’s resources and enhance their response capabilities.
Chief Peñalo expressed gratitude for the support from Dracut, stating: “I want to thank the Dracut Fire Department, Chief Cunha, and retiring Chief Patterson for this remarkable form of solidarity.
“This generous donation will significantly enhance the ability of the Cambita Fire Department to respond to emergencies and protect our community.”
This exchange between Dracut and Cambita highlights how fire departments can work across borders to share resources and support one another.
Chris Goring noted: “This donation will empower the Cambita firefighters to improve their operational capabilities.
“This partnership highlights the strength of collaboration in the firefighting community, transcending borders to help those in need.”
The longstanding relationship between these departments exemplifies how communities can strengthen firefighting capacities through shared resources and international cooperation.
The Dracut Fire Department in Massachusetts has donated a surplus 1993 E-One pumper, Engine 5, to the Cambita Fire Department in San Cristobal, Dominican Republic.
The donation includes additional firefighting equipment such as hoses and breathing apparatus from Dracut and Tyngsborough.
The relationship between the two departments was fostered through Chris Goring of Emergency Response Training.
Cambita funded the transportation through donations and grants, sparing Dracut Fire any costs.
Retired Chief Richard Patterson and Chief Eugenio Peñalo both emphasized the importance of this donation in improving Cambita’s emergency response capabilities.
