For emergency services, every minute can mean the difference between life and death.

Last Friday, the Morden Fire Department's speed and efficiency improved with the arrival of their new heavy rescue fire vehicle. The over $800,000 truck comes with all the bells and whistles and enough space for all their tools, which will make a huge difference, says Fire Chief Andy Thiessen.

"We've always had these tools, but we've had to take two or three things out to get to the tool we wanted. Now we grab the tool that we need and away, we go from there. At times it can come down to a matter of minutes, and if you can eliminate that and you're still doing your job safely, they're all bonuses."

A significant feature of the new truck is the command post, which can be utilized not just by the fire department but the police as well. Once the computers have been installed, they will have access to maps and emergency response plans.

The area in the back of the truck's cab can hold up to eight people.

Many may notice Morden's trucks are neon yellow/lime green instead of the traditional red associated with fire engines. Thiessen says in terms of colour, Morden is in the minority, but the reason for the colour started back in the 1960s.

According to Thiessen, local optometrists have shared many reports that the neon yellow/lime green is processed quicker by the eye than other colours. This means the truck stands out more in traffic, on the road, and in poor weather conditions.

Tradition is incredibly essential for fire departments when they get new trucks, and this one was no exception. Thiessen says departments push their new vehicles into the hall for its christening, but their icy driveway made their experience a tricky one.

"We had a tough time getting it in, but it worked out. We set up a four to 1 rope pulley system at the back of the truck, and all the counsellors who were here grabbed the rope. We were pushing it into the hall, and they were pulling it, so that was kind of cool."

Over three years went into designing and making this vehicle a reality so that it can last for an estimated 35 years. "I'll be gone," says Thiessen. "There will be many people gone, but this truck will be able to take the next fire department into the future, and they won't have to worry about it."

As for the future, Thiessen says a lot is coming down the pipes. To become more responsive to calls within the RM of Stanley plans are in works to purchase a water tanker, to park the tanker a hall expansion will be needed, the ladder truck will need to be replaced in two to three years, and the main pumper one year after that.

Some big-ticket items are coming, and although it might be a pinch, Thiessen says every item means improved services to the community.