The Selma Fire Department finally received two new fire trucks after a year and a half of planning and waiting for them to arrive.

The department replaced two older trucks, a 1998 and a 1995 model, with brand new custom built engines. Fire Chief Mike Stokes said the new engines were needed and the department is excited to have safer and better-equipped trucks on hand to serve the community.

The new trucks will be placed at Station No. 2 in East Selma and Station No. 4 in West Selma.

We are glad to see the fire department upgrading their equipment and staying on top of the ever-changing technology that will keep the citizens of Selma safer. The new trucks were built based on what a panel of fire department personnel decided on and are customized to fit the exact needs of the Selma Fire Department.

Cameras have been added to the trucks to help aid the firefighters while they are driving to and from an emergency; items that are used often have been placed in a more convenient location; and the cab of the trucks are better designed to fit the needs of the men riding in them.

Despite a cost of $975,000, Stokes said citizens can expect a return on the investment as the trucks are expected to last 20 or more years. The trucks the department replaced have nearly two decades of service and Stokes said he knows with the care the department gives them, these trucks will too.