The fire department shall be equipped with such apparatus and other equipment as may be required from time to time to maintain its efficiency and properly protect life and property from fire. Recommendations concerning apparatus and equipment needed shall be made by the fire chief, and after approval by the town council, such apparatus and equipment shall be purchased in such manner as may be designated by the town council. All equipment of the fire department shall be safely and conveniently housed in such place or places as may be designated by the town council. No person shall use any fire apparatus or equipment for any private purpose, nor shall any person wilfully take away or conceal any article used in any way by the fire department. No person shall enter any place where the fire apparatus is housed or handle any apparatus or equipment belonging to the fire department unless accompanied by or having special permission of an officer or authorized member of the fire department. No fire apparatus and equipment shall be hired out or permitted to leave the fire station except in response to a call for aid at a fire within the corporate limits of the town, or in response to a call for aid at a fire in an area authorized for fire protection service or mutual aid under the provisions of section 4-1-8 of this chapter. (1986 Code § 4-2-7)