Why Do Fire Trucks Respond to Medical Emergencies?

Fire trucks respond to medical emergencies because they are equipped to provide quick help. They show up for emergency situations where properties, the environment or lives are at risk. These situations include fire prevention, search and rescue, disaster assistance, hazardous material response and emergency medical services.

Firefighters use specialized equipment and tools such as jaws of life and reels to reach people in need. When limited information is available, it’s important for all first responders to show up to ensure everyone gets the help they need.

Why Do Fire Trucks Respond to Medical Emergencies?

Fire trucks are readily available resources during high demand and are often the first to arrive at emergencies. Around 65% of U.S. fire department responses are linked to emergency medical services (EMS) and rescue calls annually. Because of their fast response times, they can assess the scene and stabilize patients before ambulances arrive. In many areas, fire departments are the primary emergency response agency. 

Using fire trucks for medical emergencies ensures all available resources are efficiently deployed to save lives and provide timely care. Some important reasons for training firefighters for medical emergencies include:

• Quick response: Fire stations are strategically located within communities, allowing trucks to reach emergency scenes rapidly.
• Critical equipment: Fire trucks are equipped with essential medical equipment such as defibrillators, oxygen tanks and first-aid supplies. This equipment enables firefighters to provide immediate assistance to patients.
• Trained personnel: Firefighters undergo medical training, including emergency medical responder (EMR) certification. This allows them to assess and stabilize patients, perform CPR, control bleeding and provide basic life support until paramedics arrive.
• Collaborative support: Fire trucks often accompany ambulances during complex or critical situations. This enhances the overall emergency response capabilities in the community.

Why Does a Fire Truck Always Accompany an Ambulance?

A fire truck often accompanies an ambulance for several reasons:

• Advanced life support (ALS): Firefighters are often trained as paramedics and can provide advanced life support care, such as starting IV fluids, monitoring cardiac rhythms and administering medications.
• Additional hands-on support: Medically trained firefighters can provide extra support and backup for emergency medical technicians (EMTs) during emergencies. More hands on deck is crucial in more complex or critical situations where multiple people need assistance.
• Patient transport assistance: In cases where people need to be moved from challenging locations such as upper floors or tight spaces, firefighters can help transfer them to the ambulance using specialized equipment like stretchers.
• Backup for busy ambulances: If the closest ambulance is busy or unavailable, the fire truck can provide immediate medical care until one arrives. Paramedics on fire trucks carry ALS equipment and can start treatment promptly.
• Incomplete information: Dispatchers are often not given precise or complete information, which can make it challenging to gauge how critical a situation is. Having all first responders show up ensures patients can be rescued, protected and treated in any type of emergency.

Why Do Fire Trucks Come Before Ambulances?  

We now know why they send fire trucks with ambulances, but sometimes fire trucks arrive before all other emergency vehicles.

Every emergency responder is part of a larger dispatch system in order to provide adequate coverage and manage response resources. Time is of the essence during an emergency, and firefighters are known for their prompt response.

The main reason why fire trucks arrive on a scene before ambulances is due to their geographic positioning. Fire stations are strategically located in areas so crews can get to burning buildings quickly. The shorter the response time, the more time firefighters have to rescue people and save property by suppressing a fire.

Reaching a person quickly after an incident benefits them in the following ways:

• Early assessment and stabilization: Arriving promptly allows emergency responders to assess the individual’s condition and provide necessary stabilization measures. Early intervention can prevent further deterioration and improve the chances of a positive outcome.
• Timely treatment: For conditions like cardiac arrest, breathing emergencies or severe trauma, every minute counts. Quick access to medical care can significantly increase the likelihood of survival and recovery.
• Preventing complications: Early intervention can help prevent complications that may arise if medical attention is delayed. For example, administering CPR during cardiac arrest can maintain blood circulation and oxygen supply to vital organs until an ambulance arrives.
• Pain management: Swift response can also aid in managing pain and discomfort.
• Psychological comfort: The presence of emergency personnel on the scene can provide psychological comfort to all involved during a challenging or traumatic experience.

The Role of Fire Trucks in Medical Emergencies 

During medical emergencies, firefighters may perform a variety of other critical tasks, including:

• Extrication: In cases where individuals are trapped or need to be extricated from vehicles or confined spaces, firefighters use specialized tools and techniques to safely remove them.
• Lifting and moving patients: Firefighters assist in lifting and moving people onto stretchers or into ambulances, ensuring proper handling to prevent further injury.
• Airway management: They may help establish and maintain a clear airway for patients through techniques like positioning or using airway adjuncts.
• AED operation: Firefighters are trained to operate automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to deliver electric shocks in cases of cardiac arrest.
• Scene safety: They ensure the safety of the scene for responders and impacted individuals by managing hazards, controlling crowds and securing the area.
• Communication and documentation: Firefighters communicate important information about the individual’s condition to medical personnel and document observation for continuity of care.

The Importance of Firefighters’ EMR Training 

Ongoing training and certification requirements ensure firefighters stay current with best practices in emergency medical care, enhancing their skills and readiness to handle diverse medical situations.

EMR training helps firefighters increase survival rates through efficient emergency response. Training makes them familiar with medical equipment such as defibrillators, oxygen delivery systems and trauma kits.

Explore First Responder Vehicles From Fenton Fire Equipment

Fire trucks play a critical role in emergency medical response. They’re often the first on the scene due to their strategic positioning, quick response times and ability to provide immediate assistance and stabilization. For fire trucks to help with medical response, they need high-quality fire equipment along with medical tools.

If you’re a fire station looking to enhance your emergency response capabilities, you can benefit from acquiring used fire trucks and equipment that have been proven effective in medical emergencies. For more info on our used fire apparatus and equipment, get in touch with our team.

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The Birth of E-One

Ocala, Florida, 1974, E-One commenced on a mission to craft superior fire rescue vehicles. E-One, short for Emergency One, quickly distinguished itself by adopting aluminum for fire truck bodies, a revolutionary move that promised durability, corrosion resistance, and lighter weight, ensuring quicker response times and longer service life.

A Legacy of Innovation

E-One’s journey is marked by continuous innovation. They were pioneers in integrating advanced safety features, such as crew cab protections and electrical system enhancements, setting new industry standards. Their commitment to technological advancement and quality craftsmanship propelled E-One to the forefront of the fire truck manufacturing industry, both in the United States and internationally.

E-One Goes Global

The excellence of E-One fire trucks wasn’t confined to American soil. These vehicles have made their mark worldwide, serving in diverse environments and meeting the unique needs of international firefighting teams. This global footprint is a testament to E-One’s adaptability and the universal appeal of their quality and innovation.

Beyond Fire Trucks

E-One’s understanding of the multifaceted needs of emergency services has lead to a broad array of products, including tankers, rescue units, aerial apparatus and more.

The Market for Used E-One Fire Trucks

As E-One fire trucks are known for their durability and longevity, there’s a active market for used E-One models. These vehicles offer a cost-effective solution for smaller departments or communities with limited budgets, without compromising on quality or performance. Purchasing a used E-One fire truck can be an excellent investment, providing access to high-quality equipment that has been tested by time and service.

Why Choose a Used E-One?

Opting for a used E-One fire truck isn’t just about cost savings; it’s about getting a vehicle known for reliability and efficiency. These trucks, with their robust construction and advanced features, continue to serve beyond their initial years, making them a smart choice for those looking to expand their fleet without the hefty price tag of a brand-new model.

The E-One Legacy Lives On

E-One’s story is about a commitment to safety, innovation, and serving the brave men and women of the fire service. The legacy of E-One is carried on not just in the new trucks rolling off the assembly line but also in the used models that continue to serve our communities

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We all know Disney’s darling pups in the 101 Dalmatians, but this beautiful breed isn’t just a cute cartoon. Many would also recognize them as the heroic mascot of firehouses across North America and England. Here is the history of how they came to be known as the duty-driven protectors of fire departments across the years. 

Starting in the 17th century due to their fierce and loyal personalities, muscular long legs, a high capacity for strenuous activity, and great memory, Dalmatians were considered the perfect companion for horse-drawn carriages or coaches. 

It was not uncommon for horse-drawn carriages to be subject to high volumes of theft, therefore, as a means of protection of the goods as well as the people (especially ladies of high distinction), Dalmatians were chosen to run alongside the carriage in twos to deter outside assailants, earning them a reputation as the “Ladies Dog” or the “English Coach Dogs”. Thus, Dalmatians became a society dog, not only praised for their fierce loyalty but also for their air of sophistication that came with their striped coats. 

Dalmatians are not only companions for humans. In actuality, they have a long-standing history with horses.

When the fire service introduced the horse-drawn pumper, firefighters discovered that Dalmatians had a calming effect on horses, making them perfect for the job. When horses were scared of the flames, the Dalmatians were there to coax their equestrian counterparts to move the wagon closer to the blaze. Their history of valiant protectors was not wasted in the fire brigades, if anything, it gave these dogs a new purpose.

In the early 1900s, when fire departments across town were called for action, it was only the team who arrived first, hooked up to the water system, and controlled the flames that were paid for their work. So just as carriages in the past were subject to petty theft, the competition between firehouses created reasons to protect fire equipment whilst the firefighters did their jobs. 

When a fire bell rang, the Dalmatians would bark to sound the alarm, raise the horse’s awareness and run ahead of the engine to clear the way on the roads for the fire vehicle. As horses are inherently frightened of fires, the calming effect of Dalmatians allowed for fire teams to station closer to the scene and reach crucial access points. 

When motorized vehicles were introduced into the modern world at the start of the 20th century, it could be assumed that the use for Dalmatians diminished alongside their presence in the firehouse. Yet that is not the case.

Dalmatians remain the heroic faces of fire departments across America and became irreplaceable companions for firefighters. A famous example of such a dog is a Dalmatian named Twenty after her home station Station 20 in New York City. She was gifted to the station after the heartbreaking 9/11 incident as a support animal for the firefighters who lost seven of their own in the disaster. Reports say that her presence kept that firehouse alive, and upon her passing, the chief reported over Twitter: 

“The house will never be the same”.

Regardless of their roles in the firehouse, it seems that Dalmatians will always carry special weight within past and contemporary firefighting. 

See part two for more special firehouse hounds. 

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The Vital Role of Grants in Fire Department Funding

Grants serve as a critical lifeline, enabling fire departments to enhance their operational efficiency and community safety protocols without overburdening local taxpayers. These funds are instrumental in acquiring essential equipment, including used fire trucks for sale, which might otherwise be unaffordable. By tapping into various grant sources, departments can secure preowned fire apparatus that are not only cost-effective but also vital for maintaining robust emergency response capabilities.

Navigating the Market for Used Fire Trucks

The market for used fire trucks offers a plethora of options for departments looking to expand or upgrade their fleets. From ladder trucks and pumpers to rescue units and tankers, the variety of preowned fire apparatus available can meet diverse operational needs. However, finding the right fire trucks for sale requires a keen understanding of both the department’s specific requirements and the funding opportunities that can make such acquisitions feasible.

Key Sources of Grants for Fire Departments

Federal Grants

• Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG): This FEMA-administered program is a go-to source for fire departments aiming to procure firefighting equipment, including used fire trucks. AFG grants focus on enhancing the safety of both the public and firefighters through improved equipment and resources.
• Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grants: While primarily aimed at staffing, SAFER grants also support the operational capabilities of fire departments, indirectly facilitating the acquisition of necessary equipment like preowned fire apparatus.
• Fire Prevention & Safety (FP&S) Grants: Part of the AFG program, FP&S grants support projects that enhance the safety of the public and firefighters from fire and related hazards. The primary goal is to reduce injury and prevent death among high-risk populations.

State and Local Initiatives

State and local grant programs often provide more accessible funding opportunities for fire departments. These grants can be particularly useful for smaller departments looking to purchase used fire trucks for sale within their limited budgets.

Private and Corporate Grants

Various foundations and corporations offer grants targeting the specific needs of fire and emergency services. These grants can be an excellent source of funding for departments looking to invest in preowned fire apparatus, especially when the grants are aimed at enhancing community safety and emergency preparedness.

Crafting a Winning Grant Proposal for a Used Fire Truck

Securing a grant for a used fire truck requires a well-crafted proposal that highlights the essential role the vehicle will play in improving the department’s operational effectiveness and community safety. Key strategies include:

• Aligning with Grant Objectives: Ensure your proposal demonstrates how the used fire truck will meet the grantor’s goals, such as enhancing public safety or improving emergency response capabilities.
• Detailing the Need: Clearly articulate why your department needs the preowned fire apparatus, including how it will be used and the benefits it will bring to your community.
• Demonstrating Fiscal Responsibility: Emphasize the cost-effectiveness of purchasing a used fire truck, showcasing your department’s commitment to responsible financial stewardship.
• Providing Evidence of Impact: Use data and case studies to illustrate how the addition of a used fire truck will tangibly improve your department’s response times, firefighting capabilities, and overall community safety.

Useful Resources

Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG)

Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grants

Fire Prevention & Safety (FP&S) Grants

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How Many Pounds Does a Fire Truck Weigh?

The truck model and design are the main factors determining the fire truck’s weight. Standard fire trucks that respond to emergencies differ in their specifications, such as single-steering axle or single-drive axle. Larger vehicles come with tandem axles or tandem rear drive steer axles that add up to their weight. Depending on the design, emergency vehicles like fire trucks fall within the weight limit of 24,000 to 52,000 pounds or 12 to 26 tons. 

The Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association (FAMA) allows larger vehicles to exceed the standard weight specifications as long as they are within the 82,000-pound (41-ton) maximum gross vehicle weight. Bigger trucks often accommodate additional features for better structural support and a larger hydraulic system. For example, fire trucks with extendable ladders are much heavier compared to standard ones. While the FAMA offers relevant guidelines, weight regulations still vary from one state to another.

How Much Does a Fire Truck Weigh With Water?

Now that you have an idea of how many tons a fire truck weighs, it’s time to understand the changes in the weight when water is added to the vehicle. In general, fire trucks only carry minimal water. The reason is that there’s another equipment responsible for carrying water, along with the hose and pump, which is the fire engine. 

On the other hand, fire trucks typically serve as transportation vehicles for firefighters. These vehicles also carry a series of tools like aerial ladders, airbags, harnesses and Jaws of Life. In some cases, fire trucks that have a water tank can store between 500 and 750 gallons of water. As such, each gallon is equivalent to approximately 8.34 pounds, which means the additional weight is around 4,170 to 6,255 pounds or 2.09 to 3.13 tons.

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Fire trucks are crucial assets in firefighting and disaster management. When it comes to understanding their capabilities, a common question arises: “How much water does a fire truck hold?” Today, we’ll unravel the mysteries of fire trucks, exploring their water-carrying capacities, the different types, and their indispensable role in firefighting operations.

Understanding the Basics:

The water-holding capacity of a fire truck varies based on its type and purpose. While most fire trucks have the capability of carrying water, when it comes to carrying large volumes, there are three main categories: pumper trucks, tanker trucks and a combination of both, known as a pumper-tanker.

1. Pumper Trucks: Pumper trucks, or fire engines, are equipped with pumps and draw water from hydrants. Their water tank capacity ranges from 500 to 1,000 gallons. Pumper trucks ensure a continuous and pressurized water supply for firefighting.

2. Tanker Trucks: Tanker trucks, or water tenders, transport and supply large volumes of water, with capacities often exceeding 3,000 gallons. These trucks are vital in rural firefighting, where access to municipal water may be limited.

3. Pumper-Tankers: A pumper-tanker combines the best of both worlds, offering a truck that can, is some cases, hold upwards of 3000 gallons and is equipped with a pump to get the water where it needs to go.

Factors Influencing Water Capacity:

Several factors influence a fire truck’s water-holding capacity:

1. Type of truck: Trucks with specific purposes, such as aerial ladder trucks or wildland firefighting vehicles, will often have smaller water tanks ranging from 200 to 500 gallons.
2. Setting: Urban trucks rely on hydrants, while rural areas may require tanker trucks with substantial water tanks.
3. Budget: The fire department’s budget impacts the type and size of fire trucks, affecting water capacity.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, a fire truck’s water capacity depends on its type, size, and intended use. Whether it’s a pumper truck ensuring a continuous water supply in urban areas or a tanker truck delivering water to remote locations, these vehicles are essential for community safety. The next time you witness a fire truck in action, you’ll appreciate the critical role its water capacity plays in firefighting and safeguarding lives. For more insights on fire truck capabilities and emergency preparedness, keep exploring our informative content.

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Fire engine, fire truck, fire apparatus — people often use these terms interchangeably, but there are some important differences. Fire engines are usually the first to respond to a fire. They carry water and hoses and quickly get to work putting out the blaze. A fire truck, or fire apparatus, is fully equipped to conduct search and rescue operations in fire and other emergencies.

Take a look at a fire apparatus vs. a fire engine to determine which is right for your applications.

Difference Between a Fire Truck and a Fire Engine

The main difference between the two involves the operations that they perform. A fire engine carries water, a pump and a hose to extinguish fires. Firefighters on a fire engine will apply water at high pressure to extinguish a fire. Traditionally, fire trucks don’t carry any water. They have an aerial ladder that enables firefighters to access a building and perform functions like rescues.

Firefighters on a fire truck focus on getting inside to rescue victims. They may also ventilate the roof or other parts of the building to stop the spread of the fire and make it easier to get inside. If the fire grows unpredictable or too large for the firefighters on the fire engine to control, the fire truck may assist the fire engine with containing the blaze. It’s common for the fire engine to be the first on the scene to contain the fire, with the fire truck following closely behind. 

Because they have different tasks, fire engines and trucks often have different equipment and tools. Fire trucks need essential rescue tools such as Jaws of Life and hydraulic ladders to save trapped victims.

Fire trucks also often contain thermal imaging cameras that allow firefighters to assess safe areas to enter a building and detect victims’ body heat so they know where they are in the building. Fire trucks also have self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) that firefighters use to breathe clean air in a fire. They also have specialty rescue equipment like harnesses, ropes and belay devices.

Fire engines may also have similar equipment, but this is rare. The most important tools on a fire engine are high-powered water pumps, water tanks equipped with gallons of water and long water hoses to put out the blaze. Fire trucks also tend to be larger and longer than most fire engines. 

What Is a Fire Engine?

Fire engines, also known as pumpers, primarily aim to suppress a fire. Though each fire is different, the team usually works together to find the source of the fire and direct water at the base of the fire. These vehicles are equipped with three main components that firefighters use to put out fires: 

• Water tank: Fire engine tanks vary in size. They usually hold between 500 and 750 gallons of water. These tanks can empty very quickly, depending on the type of hose and nozzles used. For this reason, fire engines can connect to another water supply — fire hydrants being the most common secondary source. They can also draw water from reservoirs, lakes, ponds or pools. 
• Fire pump: Most fire engines use a centrifugal pump in which a spinning propeller creates pressure to move the water. This pump can move large amounts of water, about 1500 gallons per minute, from a water tank or a source like a fire hydrant to put out a fire. 
• Hose: The hose enables the water to move from the sources to the pump and out the nozzle. Fire engines usually have different configurations in their hoses for various purposes. 

In addition to these three components, fire engines carry essential tools like ground ladders, various nozzles and rescue ropes. 

What Is a Fire Truck?

Fire trucks generally don’t carry water or have a pump, except for specialty trucks known as Quints. Firefighting apparatus is another common term people use to refer to a truck. They have less to do with putting out the fire and are more involved in other functions.

The main component of a fire truck is a hydraulically powered ladder called an aerial ladder. This ladder is mounted on the fire truck and reaches between 75 and 100 feet when extended. One of the main features of this ladder is that it allows firefighters to access multistory buildings. 

Fire trucks have ground support stabilizers called outriggers that allow firefighters to use them safely. These hydraulically powered stabilizers extend underneath the truck to the ground. They create a stable support base that lifts the truck partially off the ground, making it safe for firefighters to load the ladder without tipping over. Because a fire truck is larger than a fire engine, it can carry more equipment and tools, including the following: 

• Power tools like circular saws, Jaws of Life and chainsaws
• Airbags to lift heavy objects
• Rescue equipment like harnesses and ropes
• High-power electric fans to pull out smoke

One of the duties of a firefighter on a truck is ventilation, which involves removing smoke, heat and toxic gases from the building. They do this through the roof, doors or windows, making navigating the scene easier for victims and firefighters. Fire trucks are also handy for non-fire-related emergencies such as technical cliff or trench rescues. 

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Fire Truck or Fire Engine

Now that you know the difference, how do you choose the right vehicle? There are a few things that you need to consider before making your choice: 

• Your area and risks: What operations does your department carry out? Do you mainly respond to non-fire-related emergencies, or are you primarily responding to fires? Understanding the nature of the emergencies in your area can help you make the right choice. Look into the types of calls that you get, the buildings that you deal with — whether they are high-rise or mostly small homes — and the frequency of other emergencies. Knowing what risks you face in your area will inform your choice. 
• The team you’re transporting: How do your firefighters get to a scene? The vehicle you choose needs to have enough room onboard. You may have a few firefighters on your truck or engine and have the others arrive separately. Think about how they usually reach the scene and what works best for you. 
• Your water needs: Water is essential when fighting fires. The area that you live in will also dictate how accessible water is to you. If you operate in a city, hydrants are usually easily accessible. In smaller towns, they may be scarce. Water accessibility will determine the size of the tank on your fire engine. You’ll want enough water so firefighters can begin working on a fire while the rest of the team sets up a secondary supply. 
• Your equipment load: Think about the types of scenes you respond to and the number of vehicles that respond. If you have a smaller fleet, you may need a vehicle with greater storage capacity to ensure you have all the essential tools. Bigger fleets can easily spread out equipment. The more gear you need, the fewer firefighters you can carry.

View Fenton Fire Equipment Fire Truck and Fire Engine Listings

Even though fire trucks and fire engines are similar, they serve different functions in fires and other emergencies. Fire engines have water tanks, pumps and hoses to extinguish a fire quickly. Firefighters mostly use fire trucks to ventilate buildings and rescue victims from fires and other emergencies. To choose the right vehicle, you need to understand the scenes you respond to and your department’s unique needs. The right vehicle can help you and your team to carry out rescue operations seamlessly.

Fenton Fire Equipment has a selection of new and used fire trucks, vehicles and firefighting equipment. Visit our website or contact us today to find the right fire truck or engine for you!

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By Emma Campbell

A colorful history of why fire trucks have been painted red since the 1900s; uncover the benefits of color choice and why red is right for your rig.

Even though today’s rigs vary in colors such as yellow, white, green, and even purple; If you asked someone on the street what color fire trucks are, they would say red.

The question is, why?

Red, a History

In the early 1900s, when Henry Ford launched the Model T automobile, he famously quoted:

“Any customer can have a car painted any color that he wants, so long as it is black.” This set the trend for roads to have mostly black cars on them.

To be distinguishable from the average road user, firehouses across the Country painted their apparatuses red to maximize visibility.

In this way, the color red ensured the safety and conspicuity of firefighters and the fire trucks they were responding in.

Today, however, cars come in all colors, and fire trucks are additionally equipped with sirens, lights, and retroreflective markings to signal road users that they are responding to or returning from an emergency.

So why is it that more than a hundred years later, we still predominantly associate red with fire trucks?

The Ergonomics of Color

Much research surrounding color choice for emergency vehicles is based on psychological studies examining human visual perception. Studies have shown that the color-transmitting cones in human eyes in dim lighting are more responsive to certain colors over others.

Extensive research has been conducted on the color lime-green versus red in dim lighting, concluding that lime-colored vehicles are more immediately apparent to the human eye than red.

This information is vital to consider in congruence with the rate of accident involvement with emergency vehicles that, according to the 2009 FEMA report, are the second largest leading cause of firefighter deaths.

This information became evident from a 4 year study conducted by New York optometrist Stephen S. Solomon and James G. King’s where they found that red is not the most visible color.

In fact, according to Solomon, “risk visibility-related, multiple vehicle accidents may also be as much as three times greater for red and red/white fire trucks compared to yellow/ white and yellow-lime trucks.”

In response, departments across the United States during the ’70s and 80’s began painting their vehicles lime/green instead of the traditional red.

Does Colour Matter?

Fundamentally, it all comes down to visibility and conspicuity.

The 2009 USFA Emergency Vehicle Visibility and Conspicuity study concluded that the most important factor of an apparatus is that other road users can recognize fire trucks for what they are: emergency vehicles that hold the right of way.

So what is the right color for your rig?

Any color is acceptable so long as other road users can identify other cues such as sirens and retroreflective markings as belonging to emergency vehicles.

Fire-truck red may very well hold its place in popular culture for the foreseeable future. The fire service and the fire trucks they respond in are steeped in tradition that dates back over 100 years of helping others in trouble. The red colored fire truck is still a big part of what makes fire fighting such a great tradition and vocation.

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When purchasing a new water tender, choosing the size that best fits your fire department’s needs is essential. Fenton Fire Equipment offers many makes, models and ages of fire trucks and can provide you with a wide range of options when making this critical decision.

What Is a Tanker?

Tankers are large trucks specifically designed to carry water, foam or chemicals to a scene to support fire trucks and crew. A tanker is vital for teams fighting wildfires and rural departments without access to municipal water lines.

Common Fire Truck Tanker Sizes

Your fire truck tank size is crucial in your purchase and decision-making process. The size of the tank will determine how much water or other liquid you can carry on your truck, which dictates how long you can fight a fire before needing a refill. The most common fire truck tanks sizes are as follows:

1. 1,000 Gallons

The 1,000-gallon capacity is the minimum size for a tanker fire truck. Filling in 15 minutes or less, this lighter-weight tanker offers excellent agility, letting it navigate narrow streets and tight turns while still providing an ample water supply. This capacity is popular among smaller departments that must be able to mobilize quickly without dealing with the bulkiness and expense of larger trucks.

2. 2,000-2,500 Gallons

When looking for a tanker that holds a significant volume of water but is light enough to avoid causing severe challenges for the driver, a 2,000-2,500-gallon capacity offers the best of both worlds. This size delivers plenty of water to a scene while still retaining some navigability. However, drivers should still take turns with caution to avoid potential damage or injuries.

3. 3,000 Gallons

Many fire departments use tanks with a capacity of 3,000 gallons or greater so they can dispatch fewer vehicles and crew members at a time.

Although your team will gain more independence with an ample water supply, a larger tank will reduce your flexibility and maneuverability, making it challenging to navigate tight spaces or avoid obstacles on the road. Those looking for more agility when transporting should consider using a smaller tank. Operating a 3,000-gallon tanker may call for additional insurance as well, so make sure you know your specific state’s requirements before making a purchase.

Find Your Ideal Tanker at Fenton Fire Equipment

If you need a new fire tanker, we can help. The Fenton Fire Equipment team is dedicated to providing buyers with the best firefighting products and vehicles. We connect you to a wide selection of leading brands, so you’ll find everything you need to keep your department ready to respond in an emergency. View our available water tankers today!

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The firefighting industry is a demanding one. It requires you to stay on your toes and utilize the proper equipment to keep you and your community safe. Whether you operate in a volunteer or career capacity, modern quints can revolutionize how you approach emergencies. Take a look at what quints have to offer and how they can help you in times of need.

What Is a Quint Fire Truck?

A quint fire truck, also known as a quintuple combination pumper, combines the functions of a pump, water tank, fire hose, aerial device and ground ladder into one convenient vehicle.

Standard quint features include:

• Fire pump with a 1,000-gallon-per-minute minimum
• Water tank of at least 300 gallons
• 40-plus feet of enclosed storage
• 85-plus feet of ground ladders
• Hose storage
• Elevated platform or aerial ladder
• Suction hose

The Ultimate Firefighting Combination

The quint fire truck is the ultimate blend of firefighter equipment, providing the best of all worlds when it comes to fighting fires and providing rescue services. With this powerhouse vehicle, you can:

1. Pay less to do more: Instead of buying multiple fire trucks, you can now buy one and use it for almost all your fire truck needs.
2. Choose between different sizes and configurations: Whether you live in a region with narrow streets or often have to navigate tight turns, your department can choose between a variety of quint models to find one that perfectly matches your needs.
3. Provide flexible support at the scene: With a wide spread of capabilities, a quint will allow you to adjust your approach to best suit each unique situation.
4. Improve productivity: Quint fire trucks allow for increased productivity because there’s no need to wait around for another vehicle or have people go back and forth between them — your team can get right to work on their task without any delays.
5. Save on maintenance costs: Designed as a single unit, a quint reduces the total number of vehicles needed for an operation, reducing your department’s overall maintenance and labor costs.

Search Available Vehicles at Fenton Fire Equipment Today

Firefighters need reliable equipment that will last them through years of service, making it essential for the vehicles you purchase to arrive equipped with the right features and conditions. Fortunately, Fenton Fire Equipment has a wide selection of new and used fire trucks, engines and other firefighting apparatuses to suit your needs. 

Find the right vehicle for your department by viewing the available quints for sale at Fenton Fire Equipment today!

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