The Checotah Fire Department, located in Checotah, Oklahoma, recently upgraded its fleet with a 2008 Spartan Rescue 1 Walk-Around Rescue with a light tower, helping the department better meet the growing demands of its response area.

A Need for Greater Capability

Previously operating a 2017 Ford F-550 Light Duty Rescue Truck, the department had begun to outgrow the truck’s equipment capacity. As their operational needs expanded, they began searching for a larger rescue unit that could better support their crews in the field.

One feature that quickly became a priority was enhanced scene lighting. Checotah Fire Department serves areas intersected by two major highways, where nighttime incidents and heavy traffic require strong lighting to keep firefighters and motorists safe. The Spartan rescue’s light tower provided the added visibility needed for these challenging scenes.

Finding the Right Truck

The department first learned about the unit through a mailer from Command Fire Apparatus, which listed the Spartan rescue. After reviewing the specifications, the truck proved to be a strong fit for the department’s needs, and Chief Greg Carmack wasted no time contacting Command Fire Apparatus. 

A Smooth Buying Experience

For Chief Carmack, the purchasing process stood out as especially straightforward. Compared to previous apparatus purchases, the Command team provided quick responses and consistent communication throughout the process, helping ensure the department had the information they needed every step of the way. “It was a way simpler process through Command,” the Chief recounted. “Whenever I had a question, I would get an instant response. Someone was always getting back immediately.”

Sometime after delivery, the department encountered a minor wiring issue affecting the light bar. A Command technician was quick to offer assistance and support to resolve the problem. With the technician’s guidance, the department was ultimately able to repair the issue internally. “The [technician] said that if we needed anything, he would be happy to ship a new light bar and assist further,” said the Chief. “Luckily, we were able to fix the issue thanks to our own mechanical expertise, but it was nice to know that leaning on Command for help was always an option. We’ve had no problems ever since.”

Ready to Serve the Community

Since placing the Spartan rescue into service, the department has received positive feedback from both firefighters and the surrounding community. The new apparatus provides increased capacity and improved scene lighting, helping the department respond more effectively to incidents throughout its service area.

Looking for the Right Truck for Your Department? 

Command Fire Apparatus is committed to a straightforward, no-hassle purchasing experience. Each unit is carefully inspected and prepared before delivery, and departments can rely on continued guidance, service capabilities, and technical support long after the truck arrives.

Because when departments work with Command, they’re not just purchasing apparatus—they’re gaining a partner who understands the fire service and stands behind the trucks they deliver.

Explore available trucks and find the right apparatus for your department today!