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Oakville Fire Celebrates 100 Years of History with Commemorative History Book
 On April 30, 2009, the Oakville Fire department celebrated 100 years of service.
With 100 years behind them, the department recognizes the importance of preserving and documenting its history. To commemorate this milestone, the Fire department is proud to announce the summer 2009 launch of a commemorative history book, Reflections of a Proud Heritage. Pre-order your book today!
A brief look at the development of the Oakville Fire department:
- April 5, 1909 — First meeting held in the Council Chamber to establish a permanent volunteer fire brigade in Oakville. Meeting chaired by Mr. Charles Carson.
- April 30, 1909 — Meeting held to approve and formalize the minutes from the April 5 meeting ... the Oakville Fire department was born.
- January 1, 1962 — A new Town of Oakville Fire department was formed with the amalgamation of Trafalgar Township, including the area once known as the Village of Bronte, and the Town of Oakville. Fire Chief Doug Wilson headed the department with four full-time staff and 90 volunteers.
- April 30, 2009 — The Oakville Fire department celebrates its 100th anniversary.
- Summer 2009 — Scheduled release of commemorative history book.
The History of Pumper No. 8.
 The Oakville Fire department's most recognized vehicle is Pumper No. 8 (also known as P8). This 1948 American Lafrance carries 125 gallons of water and 1,600 feet of hose, and can "pump" water from wells and lakes. The pumper was used to fight its first major fire on August 14, 1948, at the Kendall Leather Company. On February 26, 1959, it pumped water for 16 straight hours to help put out another major fire. On February 12, 1980, P8 was used at its last fire at the Ren's Feed and Supply store where, while drafting, it threw a piston through the engine block. The next day, P8 was taken out of service. In 1983, the Oakville Professional Firefighters Association began restoring P8, completing the work in 1984. It is now the department's only parade antique truck. Today, Pumper No. 8 can be seen at many community events including the Oakville Santa Claus Parade, Waterfront Festival, Midnight Madness and Fire Prevention Week Kickoff. Watch a short video about Pumper No. 8 (TownTV). More about Pumper No. 8: - 1948 American Lafrance Pumper
- Purchased in 1948 by Fire Chief Fred Shaw
- Carries 125 gallons of water
- Carries 1,600 feet of hose
- Has a 12-cylinder engine
- Pumps 120 psi of pressure to hoses
- Pumps at 625 GPM with a Class "B" Waterous pump
- Pumps water from wells and lakes using 4.5 feet of hard suction hose
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