Funds given to revamp Harriman fire SUV

Harriman, Tennessee - November 28, 2005.  Harriman Fire Department received an early Christmas gift from industrial waste cleanup company WESKEM in Oak Ridge.

The company donated $2,000 to the city to prepare a Chevrolet Suburban the city has in the police impound lot.

The vehicle will be used as a first-responder vehicle to be taken on emergency calls not requiring a fire truck, said Harriman Fire Chief Wayne Best.

WESKEM president John Krueger said at least 25 percent of the company's employment comes from Roane County.

"This is something we are happy to do," Krueger said.

"This is a way to give back to the community."

Best said the vehicle will cut down on the unnecessary use of the larger fire trucks.

"This is a big benefit for us because it not only is a safety issue, but it cuts down on the wear and tear," he explained.

Best said the department could run about 80 percent of its calls from the vehicle.

Best said the company's donation is a blessing.

"They are the kind of neighbors we need," he added.