Fire Apparatus

Since the beginning of organized firefighting ground ladders have been one of our most fundamental and necessary tools on the fire ground. Remember the "truckies" mnemonic LOVERS (Ladders, Overhaul, Ventilation, Entry, Rescue and Salvage)?

One of the fundamental tactical functions of an engine company at any fire is to establish an adequate water supply. "Big fires need big water," as noted Chief Alan Brunacini said.

The quest for a material that is stronger, lighter and cheaper to make and maintain is the "Holy Grail" for the manufacturer of any product. Fire apparatus manufacturing is no different in that respect, especially when it comes to one of the components: the water tank.

The seven fundamental strategies must occur sequentially while the strategies of salvage and ventilation are implemented anywhere those strategies are needed to support the other seven.

It's probably safe to say that there are many firefighters and officers who consider the quintuple combination pumper, or the quint, to be the "centaur" of fire apparatus: part engine and part truck.

One of the core responsibilities for any emergency-services organization is the proper training of its personnel for safe over-the-road operation of emergency vehicles. This is especially true for fire and EMS agencies operating large trucks, such as engines, ladders and rescue rigs.