Fire Trucks – The Vehicles That Carry Firefighters to and From the Scene of an Emergency

Fire trucks are the vehicles that carry firefighters to and from the scene of an emergency. They also carry the equipment that firefighters use to fight fires and rescue victims. These include fire engines, ladders and water tanks. Some trucks even have air systems that allow firefighters to breathe while on the scene. Depending on the type of incident, firefighters may also use special rescue tools such as Jaws of Life and hydraulic ladders.

How a fire department designs and configures its fleet of fire trucks will depend on several factors. Fire hydrant infrastructure will affect the amount of water that fire trucks can carry, for example. In cities, hydrants are readily available and can supply large amounts of water to fire trucks. In rural departments, hydrant availability is often limited and requires strategic planning of how water will be transported to fire scenes.

The firefighting capabilities of a truck also depends on its configuration and the equipment load. For instance, some fire trucks are equipped with a deck gun that sprays water at high rates and pressures. Some fire departments will also add a Compressed Air Foam System (CAFS) on their trucks to enable them to apply Class A and Class B foam for incidents that involve hazardous materials such as chemicals, fuels and oil.

Other common features on modern fire trucks include gripped steps, allowing firefighters to safely enter and exit the vehicle, as well as compartmentation that can reduce crew members’ exposure to carcinogens while ensuring they have access to their essential tools. Some fire trucks are also designed to accommodate a variety of rescue tools, including Hurst tools, ground ladders, specialized saws and cutting torches, as well as firefighting pumps.

Some trucks are designed for wildland and rural firefighting, with a focus on off-road capability. These are commonly known as brush fire trucks. These are usually sleek, maneuverable vehicles that can travel over rugged and variable terrain. They typically have smaller water tanks and pumps that are capable of spraying water at high pressures. They will also often have foam systems that help them to effectively suppress wildfires.

Some fire departments are embracing green technology and making the transition to electric fire trucks. These are typically built on a similar chassis as traditional fire trucks and feature an electric drivetrain that can be powered by both the internal combustion engine and the integrated onboard batteries. This allows for zero-emissions operation and a reduction in maintenance needs. It can also improve air quality and enhance sustainability.