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12 Tips for Designing the Optimal Fire Apparatus Storage Compartments

As we continue to see more and more fire departments purchasing rescue vehicles and multipurpose apparatus, there’s been a lot of discussion about how to maximize these rigs’ storage capabilities. Rescue vehicles are known for having bigger, better, and more diverse storage options than other apparatus types, and basically serve as mobile fire equipment storage lockers.

Custom vs. Commercial Chassis – 10 Key Differences to Consider

With budgets being tight and new apparatus costing well into the six-figure range, fire departments everywhere are looking for ways to save. And when it comes to building a new fire apparatus, one way that fire departments have been able to cut costs is by using a commercial chassis. Commercial chassis can cost less than half the price of their custom counterparts, but does that really make them a better option?

If your department is trying to decide if a custom or commercial chassis makes sense for your next fire truck, here are 10 key comparisons to consider before you make a decision:

6 Tips for a Successful Final Inspection with Your Apparatus Manufacturer

After months of debating different specs, pouring over designs, and deciding what features to include on your new rig, your department’s new apparatus is finally ready for final inspection with the manufacturer. The final factory inspection is an extremely important part of the truck-building process and it shouldn’t be taken lightly. This will be the last opportunity to ensure your apparatus is built exactly to your specifications, and find any deficiencies before it’s delivered to you.

5 Indicators Your Department is Ready for a New Fire Apparatus

With a new apparatus ranging anywhere in price from $100,000 to over $1,000,000, you can be sure that your department will be looking to maximize its investment and squeeze every possible hour of service out of your vehicles. That being said, when an apparatus is approaching the end of its effective life expectancy, it isn’t always easy to determine whether or not it needs to be replaced. Sure it might not perform like it did fresh off the factory room floor 10-15 years ago, but do you really need to spend all that money and go through the process of replacing it just yet? Would it be more feasible to just repair the apparatus?

9 Questions to Ask Your Department Before Buying a New Fire Apparatus

Though the thought of replacing an aging apparatus might seem exciting to most fire departments, it’s a decision that must be made after a lot of careful thinking and deliberation. With even your most basic apparatus costing well over $300,000 to build these days, buying a new apparatus is an investment your department can’t afford to take lightly. In addition to their expensive price, each apparatus must also stand up to any challenges the buyer might put it up to. Lives will literally depend on your apparatus’ reliability and functionality, so it’s important every penny spent is justified.