Seminole County, Fla (October 18, 2023) – The Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) recently acquired two new high-water/flood and multi-use rescue vehicles. The purchase of the two 6x6 high-water vehicles (Acela Monterra GL Cassis Cabs) was paid for by ARPA dollars – or American Rescue Plan Act funds – which are federal dollars. 

The new vehicles replaced the two older 6x6 vehicles that were built in 1968. Due to the need for continued natural disaster preparedness and response in the County for wildfires and other emergencies, in April 2023 the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners approved the purchase (a little over a half million).

“I would like to thank our entre Seminole County Board of County Commissioners and County Management for their support in this purchase and investment in public safety,” said Seminole County Fire Chief Matt Kinley. “With Hurricane Ian, the Seminole County Fire Department along with law enforcement agencies and the National Guard responded to saving residents in flood-prone areas in Seminole County. We utilized our high-water vehicles, which are over 55 years old. The new vehicles have such increased capabilities that will help specifically in our flood response.”

The trucks can also be converted for brush-fire fighting capabilities, which makes these assets extremely versatile throughout the year.

Features include:

-50-inch water fording capability
-Ability to transport 28 people with ample room for pets
-It also includes a hydraulic lift gate to help those who are disabled
-It can quickly be converted to include brush firefighting capabilities with a 650-gallon water tank
-It has a 21,000-pound tow load capability

Both of the new fire vehicles are housed at the Seminole County Fire Department’s Training Center and are currently in service.