He ended up using an American La France style front end - fittingly, the brand of trucks used by Surrey Fire Department.

With the eye of a father, Olsen took extra care to make the project as kid-proof as possible. He invited his children and nephews to play on it - and even tried it out with his dad - and then made improvements to the design and bracing.

He also installed 20 working lights, including rotators, strobes, LED lights and blinkers. They add to the truck's realism - and the fun. "It sure has brought the kid out in me, that's for sure."

As pieces were completed, they were delivered to Hub Fire Engine Company in Abbotsford, B.C. for painting. Each piece had to be primed and sanded before it was painted. The company donated 100 hours of staff time for the job, while Horizon Paint provided three gallons of Dupont Imron red and silver automotive paint.

"It's got a mirror shine and there's no clear coat," noted Glenn Berger, a partner in Hub along with Harvey Goodwin and Jack Rempel.

Hub also chipped in the metal checker plate used for the cab floor and rear step. Given the project's themes - fire safety, kids and education - Berger said the company was happy to help.

"That's what you do for community," Berger said. "Surrey's always been good to us. We do a lot of work for them. You've got to give back; you can't always take. People that support you, you've got to support them."