Types of Fire Trucks

Firefighters face raging wildfires one day and save a family the next, doing everything in their power to keep people safe. To do this, they rely on a variety of tools, equipment and vehicles to help them tackle their mission. The main tool they use is the fire truck, and it comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. Each fire truck is designed to carry different amounts and types of gear depending on the needs of a specific department.

The most common fire truck type is the fire engine. These trucks typically feature a large water tank with hoses and a pump that firefighting crews can use to apply water at high pressure to extinguish fires. They also feature a deck gun, which is a device mounted on top of the vehicle that can spray water from up to 1,000 gallons per minute. Fire engines are typically able to carry up to four firefighters.

Firefighters can also deploy other types of fire trucks, such as fire tanks and water tenders. These vehicles are used to store and transport water, hoses, fire fighting equipment and other supplies. Fire trucks are equipped with specialized seats that hold the firefighters’ SCBA air packs, allowing them to “gear up” quickly and efficiently while on their way to the scene. They can also have built-in headsets, allowing the entire crew to communicate clearly and listen for dispatch updates while they drive.

Some departments even have smaller, dedicated fire trucks that are used for more specialized tasks, such as hazmat and advanced life support (ALS) vehicles. These are often pick-up truck-based, and some come with their own on-board water tanks, allowing them to refill their own supply of air as needed. In some cases, these trucks are equipped with a cot bed for the firefighters to rest on while they’re on scene.

The creation of different types of fire trucks allows departments to request assistance from other organizations knowing that the requested vehicle will have the right equipment. It also ensures that regional terminology doesn’t compromise the promptness of rescue support and resources. For example, a fire truck in one area may be referred to as a brush truck or a wildland fire truck, but these trucks have been developed with NFPA standards and terms that make them easily identifiable across the country.

For departments looking for a fire truck to meet both structural and wildland missions, the HME Type 3 wildland fire truck is an excellent option. It’s based on the Spectr II chassis and offers a unique balance of deployment-friendly features, safety, functionality and durability.

While it may seem strange that there are so many different types of fire trucks, they each have a purpose. Whether they’re spraying water and deploying ladders, or carrying equipment to assist with hazardous materials, these vehicles are a true testament to the bravery of firefighters and their dedication to saving lives. They’re an inspiration for us all to live a safer and more resilient life.