BIDDEFORD — The fire department’s new ladder truck is now christened and ready to get out on the road.

Firefighters and community members gathered at the Central Fire Station on Alfred Street Sunday to welcome and bless the Emergency One, 100-foot ladder tower, which has a Quest cab. The ceremony included brief speeches from the fire chief and mayor, and then a washing of the truck and a blessing by the department’s chaplain, Kevin Jacques.

Deputy Fire Chief Scott Gagne said though this sort of dedication ceremony is not commonly done locally, it is a tradition with many fire departments. Prior to Sunday’s event, the shiny, new truck ”“ No. 32 ”“ had yet to go on a call, said Gagne.

The approximately $900,000 aerial ladder truck is replacing a ladder truck that had been in operation since 1996, said Gagne. Ladder trucks typically last 15 to 20 years, he said.

Chief Joseph Warren said Sunday’s ceremony would “start the life of this truck out on the right foot.” He said the department should be very proud to have equipment that allows its firefighters to conduct their job duties and operate safely.

“The ladder truck is probably the most expensive piece of equipment that any community buys,” he said.

Mayor Alan Casavant, noting the impressive number of people who were at Central Station on Sunday to celebrate the new truck, said the turnout showed the high amount of community support of the fire department.

“Our fire department is well-known for its excellence,” he said. “It’s really important for the city to give the tools necessary in order for them to carry out their work.”

He said while some may hesitate to make such a large purchase, city officials like himself need to listen to those who have expertise. After attending a community forum about the mechanics of the fire department, Casavant said he learned that equipment such as ladder truck No. 32 are critical. He said it was necessary to replace the old ladder truck, which was aging and in need of repair.

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.