Fire Apparatus

Pros and cons of tractor-drawn aerials

When it comes to aerial fire apparatus, opinions run strong and deep. For many firefighters, especially those in our larger cities, the prototypical truck company arrived at the fire scene aboard a tractor-drawn aerial (TDA) — the driver and tillerman exploiting the smallest opening to masterfully position the vehicle in front of the fire building.

Read More »

Video: 5 great ways to load hose

Deploying hose and getting water on fire is not solely an engine company function, as many departments use quints and aerials equipped with attack lines. Regardless of the apparatus type, the emphasis needs to be on hose loads that can be quickly placed in service and reloaded.

Read More »

Keys to hose care

After our pumping apparatus, the fire hose complement carried aboard that apparatus represents a significant financial investment for any department. Though fire hose may be one of the less high-tech pieces of equipment that your department carries and employs, your procedures for handling, care and maintenance has the greatest influence on its performance, reliability and longevity.

Read More »

Steps to get more from tires

A fire truck's tires are both a major safety and financial concern for every fire department. Properly maintained, they will reduce waste and the risk of injury. This is where the rubber meets the road.

Read More »

Tablets on rigs: 2 options for getting started

Using computing technology is certainly not new to the fire and emergency services world. The CAMEO (Computer-Aided Management of Emergency Operations) software products have been valuable hazardous materials response and planning tools since the first products were introduced in 1986.

Read More »

What to know before buying a fill station

The most important part of a firefighter's respiratory system protection is the quality of the air contained in their SCBA cylinder. And like the old computer adage of "garbage in, garbage out" having cylinders full of quality air is paramount. And this ultimately comes down to the fill station.

Read More »