The newest addition to the Barnegat Fire Company, the 105' ladder/pumper 1115, can now begin taking calls following training yesterday.

Fire Company President Gary Brown noted that the company last month took delivery from Pierce on their newest truck, (see photo), but the company could not begin to use it until training on the equipment took place. 

Brown said the $780,000-piece of equipment replaces a truck that dates back to the 1980s, and was "badly needed."

The truck was purchased out of a township emergency services bond that also provided for new protective gear, and other emergency vehicles in town, including six new police sport utility vehicles that were purchased for around $50,000 a piece, according to Township Administrator David Breeden.