Fire Trucks and Fire Engines

Fire trucks are vehicles equipped with various implements and tools effective in extinguishing disastrous fires. Its main function is to bring firefighters and the needed equipment to wherever a fire has broken out. Often, fire trucks are fitted with large tanks of water and a pump strong enough for firefighters to blast at any burdensome burning.

Some trucks, on the other hand are designed to draw water from external sources like rivers, lakes and even residential swimming pools. These trucks, called water tenders, are normally found in far-flung areas where no significant fire hydrant system is present. At the same time, most fire trucks have ladder attachments on their backs. Using ladders is important especially in large cities, where fires often occur in high-rise buildings. Up on these ladders, firefighters can have better access to fires, or to individuals in need of rescuing.

Ideally, every community should have its own line of firefighting vehicles. If not, they should at least be mere minutes away from one. Fire trucks, sometimes called fire engines should be able to get to fire sites as quickly as possible. They have to be vehicles capable of moving in almost race car speeds, yet stable enough to carry heavy equipment without toppling over.

Often, the chassis, suspension and transmission system are tweaked and customized to meet the needs of the firefighters. Loud sirens, and flashing lights are outfitted to alert drivers and passersby of the truck’s arrival. They are also painted in bright colors, often red, yellow or purple to achieve the same effect. Normally, road rules and regulations require motorists and pedestrians to give way to fire trucks when their sirens are blasting. Indeed the trip of the fire truck towards a disaster should be free of obstacles and delays. This is important as the survival of some is often a matter of minutes.