Apparatus
A modern and reliable fire apparatus fleet is crucial to the effective delivery of emergency services when responding to fires, emergency medical calls, hazardous materials, and all other types of emergencies. Frontline apparatus will be evaluated for replacement after a set number of years of service dependent on apparatus type, extensive repair or maintenance costs may cause a unit to warrant earlier replacement. Ambulances have a typical life span of 9 -15 years of service based on use and have a frontline age of roughly 3-5 years before being rotated to second or third out units to help maintain their life. Engines have a typical life span of 25 – 30 years of service based on use and have a frontline age of roughly 8 – 10 years before being rotated to second and third out units. Ladders, tenders, and brush trucks have a typical lifespan of 25 – 30 years as a frontline apparatus with no rotation.
Preventive maintenance (identifying potential problems, preventing breakdowns from occurring, and providing education and instruction to members) will continue to be the focus of this effort. The fire apparatus inspection and maintenance program is carried out by the respective crews in conjunction with outside fire apparatus service vendors. It allows us to evaluate the vehicle’s overall condition, identify potential problems, and make corrections in an effort to prevent breakdowns during emergency operations. Additionally, the fire apparatus maintenance program has a training benefit with crews participating in the care of their vehicles.
Apparatus