Donated Huntsville Fire & Rescue truck will help train next generation of firefighters

Published on July 12, 2024

Huntsville Fire & Rescue Service is set to contribute to the training of future firefighters with the donation of a fire truck to the Madison County Career Tech Center.

HFR Chief Howard McFarlen said the truck is a valuable training asset for the tech school. He acknowledged Driver-Engineer Heath Jones for originating the idea and for Jones’ efforts to facilitate the donation.

“Heath knows firsthand the challenges of recruiting both career and volunteer firefighters,” Chief McFarlen said. “We appreciate him spearheading the initiative, working closely with the Madison County Board of Education and the Alabama Fire College to secure their support.”

Originally located at Station 8 on North Parkway and later moved to Station 14 on Mountain Gap Road, the truck became a reserve unit after HFR acquired a new fleet of fire engines in 2022. Chief McFarlen said despite its age, the decision was made to designate the truck for the tech school due to its potential utility in training future firefighters, which was deemed more beneficial than its resale value at auction.

“Our mechanics determined it would be a practical asset for the tech school’s needs,” McFarlen remarked. “Considering its age, we believed it could significantly enhance recruitment efforts for future firefighters in their program.”