Fire on the Mountain

 Structure firefighting requires various types of apparatus to perform the duties of protecting the community. Throughout the years fire apparatus have been modified or designed with specific jobs in mind. This development includes the requirements of firefighters traveling in an enclosed cab with seatbelts rather than riding on the tail step or running boards of the apparatus.   The main type of engine used in structure fire fighting is a type 1 Pumper engine. The modern type 1 pumper engine typically has a pump located behind a 4-door cab and a water tank that is mounted to the frame.  The driver's seat in most of these engines will most likely look like a spaceship with all of the buttons, switches, and gauges.  Most fire apparatus are equipped with diesel motors because of their durability, strength, long life, and their abundance of torque. All of these are not just good qualities of a fire engine but a requirement. The diesel motor is not only what makes t...

The ranks in a fire department include Probationary firefighter, Firefighter, Engineer, Captain, Battalion Chief, Chief Assistant, and Chief.  Firefighters are responsible for extinguishing and preventing fires, responding to all emergencies, connecting hoses and nozzles, providing rescue and medical aid, maintaining equipment, apparatuses, and facilities, and training and helping other firefighters.                                                              Engineers are responsible for operating and maintaining the fire apparatus, which includes fire engines and other emergency vehicles. They ensure the vehicles are in good working condition, perform regular maintenance checks, and handle any necessary repairs. During emergencies, the firefighter engineer drives the fire engine to the scene an...