The Byron Fire Protection District recently donated a 1995 fire truck from its dive response team to the Vergennes Fire Department.

Jeff Bain, a board member of the Byron Fire Protection District, made the five-hour trip to deliver the vehicle. Byron benefits from a large budget—millions of dollars—largely due to the presence of a nuclear power plant within their taxing district.

Vergennes, a small community with just around 300 residents, relies on an all-volunteer fire department. Their annual budget is only about $8,000, according to Trish Sherman, a volunteer firefighter and EMS provider, as well as the village office manager. This donation marks the first time the department will have a new vehicle in decades. Most of their current equipment dates back to the 1970s and 1980s.

The Vergennes Fire Department serves not only the village but also surrounding areas, covering a vast 300-square-mile radius. They are often the first responders to medical emergencies, providing critical care while waiting for Jackson County Ambulance paramedics to arrive. Given that ambulances may be farther away, this early intervention is crucial.

The newly donated truck will serve as a medical response unit and will also be equipped with extrication tools. Currently, the department has to send both a medical unit and a fire truck to car accidents, which can be challenging if only one volunteer is available at the scene.

This new vehicle offers added flexibility, especially since it is air-conditioned. It can be used as a cooling station during fires or other incidents, helping firefighters stay comfortable and focused under pressure.

The connection between the two departments came through Nick Dinges, owner of the Amboy-based Dinges Fire Company. While his business sells equipment to fire departments, he often facilitates exchanges between those who have surplus and those in need.

The Vergennes Fire Department currently has 10 volunteers, and they're always looking for more help. Matt Hardwig, the assistant fire chief, has been with the department for 21 years. He expressed deep gratitude for the donation, saying the truck will definitely be put to good use in the community.

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