North East, PA — Fuller Hose Company #1 is proud to announce that the company has officially signed a contract with Glick Fire Apparatus, authorized dealer for Pierce Manufacturing of Appleton, Wisconsin, to build a new Utility 219 response vehicle.
The new Utility 219 is expected to be delivered in late 2029 and will replace the department’s current Utility 219, continuing a proud tradition of versatile, frontline service to the North East community and surrounding areas.
The apparatus will be designed to carry eight firefighters and will be fully equipped with the gear and specialized equipment required to support a wide range of emergency responses — including medical calls, motor vehicle accidents, water rescues, fireground operations, and severe weather events.
A Proven Workhorse in Public Safety
Since entering service, the current Utility 219 has become one of the most consistently utilized units in the Fuller Hose fleet. From 2016 through 2025, Utility 219 responded to 778 emergency incidents, demonstrating its essential role in both daily operations and large-scale emergencies.
Highlights of Utility 219’s service include:
242 motor vehicle incidents, supporting roadway safety and crash response
204 medical and EMS support calls, assisting EMS crews and patient care operations
143 water, ice, and rescue operations, including watercraft, ice, and swift water rescues
104 fireground support responses, including structure fires, vehicle fires, and wildland incidents
61 severe weather and disaster-related responses, assisting during windstorms, flooding, and storm recovery
24 public service and special assignments, supporting inter-agency cooperation and community safety
These numbers underscore what many in the community already know — Utility 219 is not just a support unit, but a mission-critical asset in protecting lives and property.
Built for the Future
The new Utility 219 will continue this legacy while incorporating modern safety features, improved ergonomics, and updated technology to enhance:
- Firefighter safety
- Operational efficiency
- Multi-agency coordination
- Long-term reliability
This investment ensures that Fuller Hose Company #1 remains prepared to meet the evolving demands of emergency response for decades to come.
Powered by Community Support
This major upgrade would not be possible without the incredible support of the Fuller Hose fundraising community — including donors, raffle participants, local businesses, and supporters who believe in the mission of volunteer fire service.
Every ticket purchased, every donation made, and every sponsor that steps forward directly contributes to projects like Utility 219, helping ensure that North East continues to receive professional, reliable emergency services.
A Continued Commitment to Service
Serving North East since 1885, Fuller Hose Company #1 remains a 100% volunteer organization dedicated to protecting its community through tradition, innovation, and partnership.
The contract for Utility 219 represents not just a new vehicle, but a continued commitment to excellence in public safety.
