Types of Fire Trucks

Firefighters put their lives on the line to save people, animals and property from devastating disasters like home structure fires. The work these brave men and women do requires a great deal of preparation, training and true courage. The equipment they use, including vehicles like fire trucks, is essential for their successful missions. Fire trucks are large machines that combine a personnel carrier, tool box and water tanker all in one. They also feature emergency lights and sirens to alert the public to their presence on scene, along with a host of other features that help firefighters get to the fire quickly.

Fire departments can choose from a variety of fire truck configurations to meet their needs. Most are based on commercial 4×4 chassis with four-wheel drive, making them agile and maneuverable over rough terrain. Many are designed to handle off-road environments, and they all have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) that allows them to haul the equipment necessary for the fires they respond to.

Some types of fire trucks are specifically designed to tackle wildfires and other outdoor emergencies, while others focus on specific duties. For example, airport crash trucks, also known as ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting) vehicles, are specially equipped with powerful firefighting agents to combat aircraft fires. They also carry other equipment like decontamination systems to mitigate the risks of hazardous materials incidents.

All fire trucks feature emergency lights and sirens to warn the public of their presence. Some are even fitted with audible warnings that can produce different sounds depending on the type of maneuver being performed or traffic conditions. For example, when approaching a junction or intersection, the siren might sound like a traditional wail that increases in pitch and volume, while for more intense maneuvers, it might emit a short, sharp sound similar to a car alarm.

The fire trucks that most people recognize are those used by local fire departments. These are typically pickup or SUV vehicles that are modified with lightbars, sirens and other specialized equipment. Some have a platform in the back to hold a ladder, while others may have a hydraulic lift in the front that can deploy a firefighting hose or rescue equipment. The vehicles can also be equipped with computerized dispatch systems, radios and other communications equipment.

Some fire departments use a vehicle referred to as a command vehicle. These are often a modified SUV or pickup that is driven by the senior fire department officer. They are also sometimes referred to as the fire chief’s vehicle or the fly car.

Other types of fire trucks include utility, tactical and pumper units. Tactical water tenders are equipped with a high-powered pump that can empty thousands of gallons of water in just seconds. They are usually parked next to a fire or other emergency site and serve as an alternate water supply. Pumper units, which are able to pump water and other liquids into the field, are usually located in urban areas.