FARMINGTON – A trailer used to store and transport an air system for firefighters isn’t working well, fire Chief Terry Bell told selectmen last week.

While responding to a recent structure fire, the crew found parts of the system frozen. With the ladder truck housed inside the station, there isn’t room inside for the trailer and mobile cascade air system, he said.

The chief and assistant chiefs of Farmington Fire and Rescue came before the board to suggest purchasing a used ambulance to carry the air tanks and other equipment and provide a place for firefighters to rest during a fire.

The board mostly agreed on the need for it but were hesitant about the proposed vehicle.

“There’s no question of need … the only question is the age and mileage,” Selectman Dennis Pike said.

The diesel engine vehicle being considered was used as an ambulance in Westbrook, is 11 years old, has 157,000 miles on it and is offered at a cost of $8,700.

The department’s reserve equipment fund could be used and the trailer would be sold to help replenish the fund, Bell said.

The age and mileage of the ambulance led selectmen to table the proposal, sending the firefighters back for more information on the condition of the vehicle, including an on-site inspection.