Types of Fire Trucks

Fire trucks are motorized apparatus used to put out fires. They have a large hydraulic 100-foot ladder mounted on top and smaller ground ladders attached. These vehicles also have specialized equipment and clothing for firefighters to use. Besides the water tanks, fire trucks have ventilation fans to keep the air flowing at a fire scene and prevent backdraft. Fortunately, these machines do not cause any injuries. If you have a fire at home, or are working in a commercial building, a fire truck can get to you quickly and efficiently.

Types one through seven are the most common, and are used most often for initial fire suppression. The GVWR of these vehicles ranges from 26,000 pounds (Type 5) to 14,000 pounds for Type 7 (GVWR). The GVWR of Type 5 through seven fire trucks is approximately 25,000 lbs. Each type has a minimum tank capacity of 750 gallons, but can carry more than that. Generally, a larger engine means a larger hose, while a smaller engine means a smaller water tank.

Some fire trucks also have a specialized hose for reaching high areas. An aerial apparatus is a great choice for firefighting because the hose lines on this vehicle are already connected. However, they do not have an unlimited supply of water. Instead, they rely on a fire hydrant or a water tender. Aside from being an effective first-responder, a fire truck can be used to help victims.

The size of a fire truck varies by type. Type 1 and Type 2 are the largest. The next two types decrease in size. The size of a vehicle is determined by its application. A rural unit may carry more water but fewer hoses because it doesn’t use fire hydrants. A Type 4 fire engine has a minimum tank capacity of 750 gallons. They can be used to fight wildfires and other types of disasters.

Type 5 and Type 7 fire trucks are the most common vehicles used for responding to fires. The GVWR of a Type 5 engine is 26,000 lbs, while a Type 7 is only 14,000 lbs. The GVWR of a Type 7 engine is less than half that of a Type 5 fire truck. In the U.S., most suburban areas use only one type. The rest of the trucks are atypical in terms of size, and are often used for structural fires.

Unlike Type 5 and 6, Type 7 fire trucks are multipurpose vehicles. Some are equipped with a small EMS response kit and a water tank. This can provide water suppression resources until the larger rigs arrive. These vehicles are called mini-pumpers. They have a 300-gallon water tank and a small booster pump with a 50-gallon capacity. They are able to respond to a number of different types of fires, and can respond to many different sizes and types of situations.

Despite their size, fire trucks are still relatively compact. Compared to traditional trucks, Type 7 can handle a much larger load. Its GVWR is only two thousand lbs less than the Type 5 truck. The smallest of these has the capacity to carry up to five people. A tanker can also transport firefighting equipment. But firefighters must also be able to move quickly, even when the vehicle is parked for hours.

The Type 5 and 7 fire trucks have the highest capacity and are usually referred to as mini-pumpers. They can be used in different ways and include an EMS response kit. The water tank is often the primary source of water for the truck. A hydrant is a common source for water for the Type 5 and 6 apparatus. The tanker has a high tank capacity and a smaller crew. These trucks are ideal for a variety of jobs.

Wildland fire trucks are equipped to handle a wide range of terrains. They are equipped with a master stream hose and are equipped with a hydraulic piston rod that lifts and lowers the ladder. These vehicles can deliver up to 1,000 gallons of water per minute. They also have a pump panel that controls the flow and pressure of the water. In many cases, these fire trucks are incredibly effective, but not all of them have a pump.