Honolulu firefighters are excited about some big, brand new tools to help keep the community safe.
The Honolulu Fire Department held a traditional blessing and maile lei untying ceremony on Wednesday for three new pumper trucks and two rescue apparatus.
The new trucks will go to fire stations in Kalihi, Pawa'a, Kuakini, Kaneohe and Waianae, where firefighters often battle summer brushfires.
"This is state-of-the-art new equipment. It helps us to do our job better, protect the community better," Capt. Kevin Browne said.
The fire trucks cost about $2.5 million and were paid for with federal, city and community development block grant funds.
The five trucks that are being replaced will be used as backups during an emergency.
Firefighters said they are required to use a truck as a backup when it's 10 to 15 years old.
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