Superior Fire Department gets new UTV with Cenovus Grant

The Superior Fire Department is excited about their new rescue equipment and its capabilities.

Cenovus gave them a $30,000 grant to purchase a new Polaris Ranger 1000 UTV with a trailer.

The Department responds to numerous rescues and medical calls for service in addition to wildland fires each year in remote or difficult-to-access areas. They say response times are critical in emergencies.

Fire Chief Camron Vollbrecht says this new asset will allow SFD responders to access patients and areas, faster and safer.

He tells us it’s quite the upgrade. “In the past, we had a smaller UTV that had wheels on it and also a snowmobile. We’re replacing both of those vehicles.”

He adds, “And with the snowmobile, the rescue was done with the sled on the back of it. So it’s a little precarious position to ride. It was safe, but probably not as comfortable as it is riding inside of this vehicle.”

The UTV’s tracks are so light it does not leave damage on cross country trails.

It also has air conditioning inside, which can help in heat related emergencies.

“At Cenovus, we value safety above all else,” Senior Manager of Safety Jeff Savage said. “We see the value that the Superior Fire Department brings to the Superior community. Assisting the Department in reaching patients and improving their response in rural areas aligns with our values and shared commitment of wanting everyone to return home safe to their families at the end of the day.”