About CAF pumper

John and Barbara Hencheck, Lambertville
    In the past the best available tool for firefighters was putting the most water that could be pumped onto a fire. This system has been used forever and we have been blessed with remarkably few losses owing to the dedication and effectiveness of Lambertville’s volunteer fire companies.
   Here in Lambertville the majority of our structures are historic, consisting of row homes, duplexes and multifamily, multifunctional structures. These irreplaceable historic treasures are most vulnerable to fire spreading from structure to structure as we are a compressed urban area.
   This year’s Fire District #1 election ballot features a question about the purchase of a Class A pumper that is designed and built to perform the Compressed Air Foam function in conjunction with its other water capabilities. This system smothers fires three times more quickly than conventional water only systems and uses 90 percent less water. The nature of the foam allows for it to be employed in an adjoining structure to halt the fire from spreading. Cleanup is greatly reduced, shortening re-entry time and losses due to water damage.
   This system will give our friends and neighbors in our volunteer fire department the best available tool to protect our homes, both historic and loved. Vote “yes” for the CAF pumper on the Feb. 19 ballot.