NATCHEZ — The Natchez Fire Department has invested in a new SUV to improve fire safety in Natchez, but it’s a bit smaller than most fire trucks.

The department acquired a 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe in May, and while it does not carry hoses, it carries specialized equipment to scenes where it is needed.

Natchez Fire Chief Aaron Wesley said the SUV was purchased for approximately $26,000 through state contract.

The last time NFD purchased a new vehicle was in 2011, Wesley said.

“It was much needed,” Wesley said. “We could use two or three more.”

NFD Battalion Chief Chris Gibson said he and other battalion chiefs drive the vehicle to keep expensive specialized equipment mobile.

“We could have a truck on another scene that needed the equipment, and it was on the wrong truck,” Gibson said. “This way, each scene we go to, the equipment is available.”

The equipment on the SUV, which includes a thermal imaging camera, specialized nozzles and fire extinguishers, is not needed at every scene, Wesley said.

The Tahoe’s job was previously performed by a 2002 Chevrolet Suburban that had more than 150,000 miles on it.