Amazing Facts About Fire Trucks

Firefighters are constantly on the move, responding to calls for help, whether they’re battling flames or dealing with another type of emergency. They must be ready to take on whatever challenge comes their way and the vehicle that carries all of their gear to each call is the fire truck. This seemingly simple and massive vehicle consists of many key components that serve an extremely vital function. Discover amazing facts about fire trucks that will make you appreciate this powerful tool even more!

When we think of a fire truck, the first thing that pops into mind is a long ladder on the back and water pumps that are continuously spraying water. But this huge vehicle is also filled with other equipment like firefighting tools, fire extinguishers and first aid kits. It is because of all the various tools that the firefighting professionals carry in the fire truck that they are able to help save lives in emergency situations.

There are many different types of fire trucks, each designed with specific functions and tools to meet the needs of their community. Pierce Manufacturing is proud to work closely with fire departments across the country to design and build custom fire trucks based on their unique requirements. Some of the most common fire trucks include Type 1 engines, Type 2 engines and wildland fire trucks. These vehicles can be grouped together because they all have similar features, but each fire truck ‘type’ has its own unique specifications and equipment.

Type 1 fire trucks, also known as combination rigs or single-engine engines, are the most commonly used firetrucks found in cities and towns. They are built to handle a variety of fires, including structure fires, brushfires and hazardous materials incidents. This is the most versatile fire truck type and can handle a number of different tasks, including providing a rapid response to medical emergencies as well as structural collapses.

The most important feature of a fire truck is the ability to supply firefighters with enough water to complete their work. This is done through the fire truck’s water tank, which can range from 500 to 3,000 gallons depending on the model. Most fire trucks use hydraulic systems to open and close the water tank, making them easy to refill. This is much quicker than using a manual valve.

A fire truck is also likely to have a foam system, which can be used in a number of ways to reduce the damage caused by burning materials. It can saturate materials to prevent re-ignition or it can be used to control spills and leaks.

Fire trucks are also often equipped with a hydraulic platform to access difficult-to-reach areas. This includes roofs, attics and other areas where a ladder cannot reach. Firefighters can also use this equipment to perform rescue and extrication operations. Finally, all fire trucks are fitted with radio systems for communication purposes. This is crucial because it allows fire fighters to stay in contact with their crew and headquarters at all times, even while on the go.