San Diego Fire-Rescue Department announces major fleet upgrade with Pierce

by AmericasFeatured NewsVehicles

The City of San Diego Fire-Rescue Department has embarked on a transformative journey to modernise its fleet of emergency vehicles, a venture that has been entrusted to Pierce Manufacturing Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company.

The company recently announced that the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department has placed an order for 18 custom fire apparatus. The deal comprises of 17 Pierce fire trucks and one Frontline Communications mobile command vehicle.

This recent acquisition is the inaugural order in a $52 million fleet replacement initiative by the City of San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, aimed at advancing sustainability and standardising fleet operations and mechanics. The transaction was facilitated through South Coast Fire Equipment, an authorised Pierce dealer.

The order

The new order includes a diverse range of fire apparatus. Notably, it features one Pierce Volterra electric pumper, which supports the City’s sustainability and fleet electrification objectives. Also included are six traditional pumpers, four Ascendant 102’ Heavy-Duty Tiller Aerial Ladders, one Heavy-Duty Rescue Hazmat Unit, two Freightliner 114SD Dry-Side Tankers, three Freightliner M2-106 Type 3 Pumpers, and one Frontline Communications Mobile Command Unit.

James Gaboury, deputy fire chief of San Diego Fire-Rescue’s Logistics Division, remarked: “We purchased our first Pierce fire apparatus in 1991. We’ve developed a trusted 20-plus year relationship with South Coast Fire Equipment, and because of a longstanding proven track record, our goal is to maintain an entirely Pierce fleet to provide a consistent fire apparatus platform for our firefighters and mechanics.”

Pierce’s new fire apparatus come equipped with numerous advanced components, including TAK-4 Independent Suspension, carcinogen reduction features, ergonomic controls, and storage placement that aligns with the department’s operational and safety needs.

Additionally, the Fire-Rescue Department’s new Frontline Communications mobile command vehicle will feature a plethora of high-tech capabilities, including an Avtec dispatch system, a vast array of communication capabilities, and a regional integrated network.

South Coast Fire Equipment President Kevin Newell said: “It has been an honour to collaborate with the City of San Diego Fire-Rescue Department on a fire apparatus and emergency vehicle order of such significance.”

The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, servicing over 1.4 million citizens and responding to nearly 178,000 incidents annually, looks forward to the arrival of the new apparatus, as Chief Gaboury added: “I look forward to seeing the firefighters’ pride and excitement when they welcome the new apparatus into service.”

E-ONE broadens California each with Performance Truck Repair

by AmericasFeatured NewsVehicles

E-ONE, a leading fire apparatus manufacturer and a subsidiary of REV Group, Inc., has announced the appointment of Performance Truck Repair (PTR) as an authorized E-ONE dealer in California. As an official dealer, PTR has the authority to sell and service the complete portfolio of E-ONE apparatus.

PTR, a family-owned business established in 1996 in Azusa, California, has a respected track record in the emergency equipment repair industry and a strong appreciation for the firefighter community. Leveraging its extensive experience, PTR is now broadening its scope to include fire apparatus sales.

Dave Killackey, Sr., President of PTR, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are very excited and encouraged to be working with E-ONE and REV Group. When it comes to serving the fire industry, we are on it 24/7, with midnight service calls and taking care of business. That’s what they want, what they need and what they must have. Packaging that with E-ONE fire trucks makes for a beautiful combination.”

Mr. Killackey also highlighted his excitement about marketing Vector, the all-electric fire truck by REV Fire Group, especially given California’s significant demand for electric vehicles.

PTR’s facilities include a 75,000 square foot service centre staffed by 18 EVT certified technicians. The centre can accommodate roughly 16 fire trucks indoors and up to 25 rigs in the outdoor working area. PTR’s offerings extend beyond sales and service to include:

  • 24-hour technical support and mobile service
  • Comprehensive fire apparatus parts inventory
  • Pre-inspection of used apparatus
  • In-house welding, fabrication, and machine shop
  • Comprehensive training
  • Wreck and refurbishment solutions
  • Plumbing and fire pump overhaul
  • Third-party aerial certifications
  • Tank replacement

“We are very committed to growing E-ONE’s presence in California,” said Larry Daniels, senior director of sales for REV Fire Group. “Performance Truck Repair has already gained the trust of fire departments throughout the state with its solid reputation of excellent customer service and attention to detail. We believe those same qualities make PTR a great addition to our E-ONE network of dealers.”

About E-ONE, Inc.

E-ONE is an industry leader in the manufacturing of emergency vehicles, including rescue trucks, aerial fire trucks, rescue pumpers, and custom fire apparatus. With over 28,000 vehicles delivered globally, E-ONE sets industry standards through product innovation, advanced technologies, and a commitment to exceeding customer expectations. E-ONE is headquartered in Ocala, Florida, and is a proud subsidiary of the REV Group (NYSE: REVG).

Boulder invests in safety and sustainability with electric fire engine

by Featured NewsVehicles

The City of Boulder has announced the purchase of a Rosenbauer RTX fire engine, the first electric vehicle of its kind in Colorado. The electric fire engine was purchased by Boulder Fire-Rescue and is considered a Range Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV), meaning it has an all-electric drivetrain and pump with a diesel energy backup system. This technology allows the city to fight fires while safeguarding air quality and reducing climate-warming emissions.

In addition to the environmental benefits, the purchase of the electric fire engine represents a significant step towards improving occupational safety for all firefighters. The RTX engine boasts several improvements to better support the needs of an increasingly diverse firefighting workforce. These features include an adjustable suspension that offers lower equipment and cab access heights, all-wheel drive and all-wheel steering for increased maneuverability on the road, an ergonomically designed cab space, reduced exposure to carcinogenic fumes, and a significant reduction in operational noise.

“This is a tremendous step forward for our community and yet another example of Boulder’s leadership in addressing climate change,” said City Manager Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde. “We’re proud to be an early adopter of new technology that makes emergency response both safer and environmentally friendly.”

The purchase of the electric fire engine was made possible through the collaboration of departments including Fire-Rescue, Fleet & Facilities, and Climate Initiatives. The estimated cost of this engine is currently at approximately 1.78 million. The money has been saved up over time from the department’s budget to replace the fleet as necessary.

“Boulder Fire-Rescue has been very intentional and thorough in the process of researching and developing a plan for this engine,” said Travis Richen, administrative battalion chief. “This purchase gives us an amazing chance to shape the next generation of fire apparatus.”

Boulder anticipates delivery of this engine late 2024 to early 2025. During this time, Boulder Fire-Rescue firefighters and Rosenbauer will work together closely to ensure that the new engine meets the needs of Boulder firefighters and the community they serve.

Fire Apparatus Solutions expands dealer operations in California

by Featured NewsVehicles

REV Fire Group, which includes fire apparatus manufacturing subsidiaries of REV Group, Inc., has announced that Fire Apparatus Solutions (FAS) has acquired the REV Fire California dealership and will expand its coverage as the new Ferrara and KME authorised dealer for the state.

The acquisition by Fire Apparatus Solutions supports REV Fire Group’s strategic plan to offer a more customer-centric business approach solely focused on selling and servicing fire apparatus and equipment in the state of California.

With this acquisition of the REV Fire Group dealership in Fontana, California, FAS will now expand its dealer operations in California to include the Ferrara and KME brands. The new facility in Fontana will allow FAS to build new relationships in the state as it expands its product offerings while continuing its tradition of providing outstanding customer service to the fire industry.

Mike Virnig, President of REV Fire Group, said: “We are thrilled to have Fire Apparatus Solutions expand their operations in California with the Ferrara and KME brands. For nearly 20 years, they have been delivering unrivaled service to fire departments in the state, and we look forward to supporting their growth strategy and serving the people and communities of California.”

William Kalmikov, Owner/President of FAS, added: “Acquiring the REV Fire dealership is a major commitment and investment that we believe will benefit all Ferrara and KME customers throughout the state of California. This new facility in Fontana will allow us to build new relationships in the state as we expand our product offerings while continuing our tradition of providing outstanding customer service to the fire industry.”

About Fire Apparatus Solutions

FAS is a well-respected and long-time dealer with full-service and sales capability for Spartan Emergency Response, Smeal, and Ladder Tower. Established in 2005 and headquartered in Rialto, California, with service centres in Fresno and Fairfield, FAS offers preventative maintenance programs, aerial and pump testing repairs, chassis service, collision, and refurbishment services.

About REV Grou

REV Group is a US-based company that designs and manufactures specialty vehicles for public services, commercial infrastructure, and consumer leisure. Its well-established brands date back more than 50 years, and the company trades on the NYSE under the symbol REVG.

IFSJ Exclusive: Under the hood with Euro NCAP

by Featured NewsVehicles

IFSJ talks to Euro NCAP to find out more about the Euro Rescue App

Euro NCAP recently launched the Euro Rescue App: an app downloadable freely which provides Rescue Sheets and Emergency Response Guides for vehicle emergencies.

A Rescue Sheet is a standardised summary page containing all the crucial information rescuers need to carry out occupant extrication quickly of a vehicle involved the scene of an intervention for road rescue or a vehicle fire. It can be used both online and offline, allowing rescuers to access the information even when there is little or no network coverage at the scene of the crash.

This information includes the location of components (e.g. airbags and pre-tensioners) and high-voltage electrical cables and batteries, all of which could present a hazard to trapped occupants and to the rescuers themselves. Manufacturer emergency response guides contain more detailed instructions to educate and assist first responders during training and are particularly important for alternative fuel vehicles.

App development

The work on the app began in 2012 through a proposal, based mainly on examples from France and Germany, on a standardised layout of the Rescue Sheets insert card for passenger vehicles and light commercial transport vehicles.

The project was formalised in 2014 and the was completed in 2019. ISO 17840 also includes a system of placards for exterior marking of fuel types for buses and other heavy vehicles, including new propulsion types like electric vehicle, hybrids and various types of compressed or liquid natural gas propulsion.

So far 200,000 first responders have downloaded the Euro Rescue app for smartphones in Europe since the launch in June of 2020, meaning 1400 Rescue Sheets designed according to the ISO 17840 standard have been made available to European first responders. The International Association of Fire and Rescue Services (CTIF) has been instrumental in the conception of these Rescue Sheets which help make all road rescue and extrication work safer.

IFSJ sat down with Euro NCAP to find out about the new digital solution.

Can you give me an overview of Euro NCAP – who are you and what do you do?

Euro NCAP provides consumers with an independent assessment of the safety level of the most popular cars sold in Europe. Through a range of tests including crash tests, that monitor adult occupant, child occupant, pedestrian protection and a range of new technologies, this non-profit organisation can offer an up-to-date and a realistic picture of a new car’s safety performance. Tests take place in a network of labs throughout Europe with results monitored by independent inspectors.

Euro NCAP was established in 1997, is supported by eight European Governments, motoring and consumer organisations in every European country and is working closely with automakers in their pursuit of a high star rating. In this way, Euro NCAP has become a catalyst for encouraging significant safety improvements to new car design.

What is the Euro Rescue App and why was it developed?

The Euro Rescue App was developed in close collaboration with manufacturers and through the testing process to provide an accurate picture of the vehicle and its equipment that can be referenced by firefighters and rescue workers at the scene of a car crash. The app became available in 2020.

How does the app work?

Easily accessible, the app provides up-to-date rescue sheets with a technical drawing of the relevant car with its appropriate equipment and design that can be easily downloaded by rescue workers on the move.

How has it evolved over its lifespan?

Euro NCAP has incorporated the Rescue sheets as part of its testing programme. Car manufacturers are rewarded with points to their overall scores when they provide the rescue sheets. This means that they can potentially lose points in their overall rating scores if they don’t provide them in the appropriate format.

Why is it useful for firefighting teams?

It is very useful for firefighters and rescue workers as they can understand very quickly potential risk scenarios, for example in the case that airbags have not gone off or the location of a battery to prevent the risk of fire. Ultimately it is about ensuring that those involved in an accident or trapped in a vehicle can be extricated quickly.

What plans do you have to develop the app further?

Formally the rescue sheets were available in four languages (EN FR DE SP), however from 2023 Euro NCAP will insist on the rescue sheets being made available by manufacturers in all European languages. Some manufacturers are suggesting the use of QR codes to make access to this information even faster.

KME to showcase apparatus and new technology at FDIC International

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KME will be positioned Booth 3701

Subsidiary of REV Group, Inc., KME has revealed what fire apparatus and technology it will display at FDIC International this week, including the first North American-style fully electric fire truck.

In celebration of first responders and in keeping with the theme “Protecting Those Who Protect Us,” REV Fire Group will host a happy hour and live product walk-arounds from 2-4pm on Thursday and Friday, including live interviews with National Fire Radio.    

REV Fire Group’s Vector will return to FDIC this year, giving attendees an opportunity to see the first North American-style fully electric fire truck. With its 327 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of proven automotive-grade batteries, Vectordelivers the longest electric pumping duration in the fire industry, accomplishing all driving and pumping tasks exclusively on electrically generated power.

Also of interest is the low battery cell placement, which offers a safer, lower centre of gravity for enhanced stability while operating.

KME’s Booth 3701 will showcase three unique vehicles designed to meet the varied needs of the fire service. These include:

Custom Pumper from Hazleton Fire Department, Pennsylvania

Built on a Panther MFD chassis with flat roof cab and seating for five, this rig features a 750-gallon water tank, a 2000 GPM pump and 158” flat back body constructed of 3/16” aluminum.

Custom Top Mount Pumper from Orangeville Township Fire Department, Michigan

This truck features the 100” Predator chassis with 16” raised roof, 10” front bumper extension, 1500 GPM pump, 1,500-gallon water tank, and wheelbase of 119”.

Custom Pumper from the City of Lake Station Fire Department, IL

Built on a 94” Panther MFD chassis with 10” raised roof, this rig features a 980-gallon water tank, 20-gallon foam cell, 1500 GPM pump and 21” front bumper extension.

FDIC Promotion

REV Fire Group will also offer a special FDIC promotion on the Active Air Purification System, which eliminates 99% of pathogens, including the virus which causes COVID-19, in the air and on surfaces. Attendees can register for a drawing with a chance to win a unit for their fire department and will also be eligible for a 10% discount or $150 off their order for these units.

“We’re excited to showcase the latest in fire apparatus and technology this year at FDIC,” said Mike Virnig, President, REV Fire Group. “This is all part of the partnership we have with fire departments, offering great products that protect firefighters and the communities they serve.”

E-ONE to introduce new Defender Wildland Pumper at FDIC

by Featured NewsVehicles

E-ONE, a subsidiary of REV Group, Inc., will introduce the new Defender Type III Urban-Interface Pumper at the Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC) International in Indianapolis, Indiana, on April 27-29, 2023, Booth 4200.

The E-ONE Defender Wildland Pumper is built to withstand challenging situations and is capable of pumping and rolling at the same time, standing strong at the edge of communities threatened by wildfire, helping to divert fire away from people and property.

REV Fire Group’s Vector will also return to FDIC, featuring the first North American-style fully electric fire truck. With its 327 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of proven automotive-grade batteries, Vector delivers the longest electric pumping duration in the fire industry, accomplishing all driving and pumping tasks exclusively on electrically generated power.

Happy Hour

In celebration of first responders and the theme “Protecting Those Who Protect Us,” REV Fire Group will host a happy hour and live product walk-arounds from 2-4 pm on Thursday and Friday, including live interviews with National Fire Radio. Attendees can also see a cross-section of the fire apparatus at Booth 4200, highlighting E-ONE’s “Strength Through Excellence,” including two aerials, two custom pumpers, and the new Defender Wildland Pumper.

The display at Booth 4200 will include the following trucks: Defender Type III Urban-Interface Pumper, 95 Platform, HR 100 Ladder, Typhoon Low Hosebed Pumper, and Typhoon Custom Pumper with Stainless Steel Body. REV Fire Group will also offer a special FDIC promotion on Active Air Purification Systems, which eliminates 99% of pathogens, including the virus that causes COVID-19, in the air and on surfaces. Two units will be given away through a drawing on Friday and Saturday.

“We are excited to feature a great lineup of industry-leading, mission-critical vehicles at FDIC,” said Mike Virnig, President, REV Fire Group. “The E-ONE display will showcase our new Urban-Interface pumper and our versatile aerial products, as well as the industry’s leading technology to support our first responders in accordance with our theme of Protecting Those Who Protect Us.”

Visit E-ONE at Booth 4200 to see the latest products and technologies available for the fire industry.

Boston Fire Department orders six more E-ONE aerials

by Featured NewsVehicles

E-ONE, a leading manufacturer of fire apparatus and subsidiary of REV Group, Inc., has announced that the Boston Fire Department has placed an order for six additional E-ONE aerials.

This order is part of a new three-year contract with Greenwood Emergency Vehicles, the exclusive dealer for E-ONE in Massachusetts. The Boston Fire Department has ordered a total of 32 E-ONE aerials since 2016, and this latest order for six E-ONE Metro 100’ aerials will add to that count.

The LTH (low travel height) Metro 100’ ladder truck is designed to maneuver the tight city streets of Boston. Its 10’ 8” low overall height makes it suitable for every firehouse in the city, and it can fit under the low bridges of Storrow Drive, a major crosstown roadway in Boston.

The truck’s features include a short 220” wheelbase and 38’ 7” overall length for excellent maneuverability in the city, narrow 11’ jack spread, electronic stability control, and severe duty interior including severe duty dash, overhead, and door panels.

The truck also has “Inner City” bumpers with angled corners for improved turning radius, zinc flame spray coating on the integral torque box for corrosion protection, and storage for 265’ of ground ladders including a 50’, 40’, (2) 35’, 28, 20’ 16’ 14’ 10’ and a 17’ Little Giant ladder.

Mark MacDonald, President of Greenwood Emergency Vehicles, said: “We remain grateful and continue to be humbled by the faith that the “First In The Nation” Fire Department has placed in Greenwood and Emergency One, and we certainly consider it a privilege and an honor to work with them.”

Larry Daniels, Director of Sales at E-ONE, said: “It is a privilege to help the Boston Fire Department better serve its citizens with fire apparatus designed to meet the city’s specific needs. The Metro 100 – with its low travel height, short wheelbase and narrow 11’ jack spread – is the perfect truck for this big city department and we look forward to working with them for years to come.”

Siddons-Martin Emergency Group acquires Emergency Vehicle Specialist

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Pierce Manufacturing has recently announced that its dealer, Siddons-Martin Emergency Group, has acquired Emergency Vehicle Specialists. This acquisition marks Siddons-Martin Emergency Group’s second expansion in recent years, as they continue to expand their services across the United States.

As one of the largest emergency vehicle dealerships in North America, Siddons-Martin Emergency Group’s regions served include Texas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Utah, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Nevada (excluding Clark County, covered by Hughes Fire Equipment Inc.). The acquisition of Emergency Vehicle Specialists, which was founded over 65 years ago by Bob Wharton, will now expand Siddons-Martin Emergency Group’s service territory to Arkansas and Tennessee.

This acquisition includes all of Emergency Vehicle Specialists’ facilities, dealership, and service locations across the territory covered, and 70 employees will be retained as operations continue out of the existing facilities.

Pat Siddons, President of Sales at Siddons-Martin Emergency Group, said: “We recognize the incredible foundation and relationships the team has built over the years, and we look forward to our teams joining together to broaden resources and service offerings which will be available to our customers in the months ahead.”

Supporting the community

Siddons-Martin Emergency Group and Emergency Vehicle Specialists share a commitment to integrity, innovation, and unparalleled customer service, which makes this acquisition a seamless fit for both companies.

The integration of Emergency Vehicle Specialists into Siddons-Martin Emergency Group will enhance the support provided to the communities they serve. As a result of the acquisition, Siddons-Martin Emergency Group plans to implement several initiatives to expand sales and service support across the combined territories.

These initiatives include merging the expertise of Emergency Vehicle Specialists’ sales and service teams with Siddons-Martin’s industry-leading processes and resources. Providing additional EVT and Pierce Master Technicians to the region served will ensure efficient, high-quality services.

Expanding field capabilities with continued expansion over the next 24 months will enhance their services. Siddons-Martin Emergency Group also plans to recruit more employees to increase the workforce in the area and expand sales and service capabilities.

Mandy Wharton McCain, President and CEO of Emergency Vehicle Specialists, added: “We’re proud of the diversified service operation we’ve built and look at the transition ahead as a pivotal progression to propel our organization forward alongside one of the most highly regarded and trusted dealerships in the country.”

She is eager to bring Siddons-Martin’s resources and service model to the fire departments they have built trusted relationships with over the years. Building the trust of their customers is at the forefront of everything they do, and they are confident that the collaboration with their Siddons-Martin colleagues will only strengthen their support of their critical work.

Fire and rescue humanitarian charity seeks new van

by Featured NewsVehicles

Operation Florian, a UK-based Fire and Rescue Service humanitarian charity, is seeking urgent donations to replace one of their two vans. The van in need of replacement has served the charity for 13 years and has come to the end of its useful life.

The van has travelled tens of thousands of miles across the country to collect equipment and served as a support vehicle for convoys to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Macedonia, and Moldova.

Since its inception in 1995, Operation Florian has donated vehicles, equipment, supplies, and expertise to communities around the world in need. The organisation relies on donations from members and the dedication of volunteers to carry out its work.

To continue their vital work, Operation Florian is appealing to individuals and businesses to donate a van to replace the one that has reached the end of its life and enable volunteers to continue collecting donations from the North of the country for fire and rescue services worldwide in need of fire safety supplies.

Operation Florian said it is ideally looking for a hi-liner long wheel base van or a box van with a tail gate.  

For more information contact Operation Florian at admin@operationflorian.org.uk or visit their van appeal page at https://operationflorian.org.uk/van-campaign/.