Fire trucks are built for one thing—getting the job done. Whether it’s fighting structure fires, tackling wildland blazes, or handling technical rescues, every truck is designed for a specific role.
Fire departments need the right tools for the job. This guide breaks down the different types of fire trucks. From pumpers and aerial ladder trucks to tankers and heavy rescue rigs, we’ll cover what each truck does, who needs it, and what features matter most.
Fire Engines (Pumpers)Â
Fire engines, also called pumpers, are the go-to trucks for structure fires. They carry water, hoses, and the equipment firefighters need to hit a fire fast. Most pumpers hold 500 to 1,500 gallons of water and come with a high-performance pump to supply water from hydrants or other sources.
FB-94 Pumper
Fouts Fire’s FB-94 Pumper is a high-performance, all-purpose fire engine built for aggressive fire attacks. It’s designed to handle structure fires, rescue operations, and hazardous materials incidents, making it a versatile choice for any department.
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- Purpose: Built for urban and suburban firefighting where high water flow and hose reach are critical. Compact enough for tight streets but powerful enough for major fire scenes.
- Who Needs It: Ideal for municipal fire departments, suburban stations, and industrial facilities that need a versatile, quick-response pumper.
- Key Features:
- High-performance water pump for consistent water supply
- Large storage compartments for firefighting tools and rescue gear
- Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) storage for crew safety
- Integrated communication systemsÂ
- Spacious compartments to store extra firefighting equipment and rescue tools
Commercial Crew Pumper
The Commercial Crew Pumper delivers reliable performance at a cost-effective price, making it a smart choice for departments needing high capacity and crew transport without breaking the budget.
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- Purpose: Designed for large crew response in rural, suburban, and industrial fire scenes where multiple firefighters are needed on-site.
- Who Needs It: Best for volunteer fire departments, municipal agencies, and industrial fire teams looking for a durable and affordable pumper.
- Key Features:
- Built on a commercial-grade chassis
- Ample compartment space for hoses, tools, and emergency equipment
- Available as regular cab and crew cab pumper
- High-performance pump system
- Suitable for a wide range of emergencies
Tankers (Water Tenders)
Tankers transport large quantities of water to fire scenes, especially in areas without hydrants. They’re critical in rural settings, providing a reliable water supply when other sources aren’t available.
2000 Gallon Tanker
The 2000 Gallon Tanker is a compact, reliable water carrier designed for smaller-scale fire scenes. Its lightweight build makes it easier to navigate tight streets and remote locations, while still providing a steady water supply for firefighting efforts.
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- Purpose: Handles small-scale fire scenes in rural or remote areas.
- Who Needs It: Any department that services areas without fire hydrants.
- Key Features:
- 2,000-gallon poly water tank
- Hale PTO-driven pump for consistent water flow
- Lightweight, compact design for easy maneuverability
- Durable construction for long-term use
- LED lighting for improved visibility
 3000 Gallon Tanker
The 3000 Gallon Tanker is built for medium-scale emergencies, offering an increased water capacity and the strength to handle tougher conditions. With its robust construction and larger tank, it’s ideal for extended operations.
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- Purpose: Designed for mid-sized emergencies that demand more water on-site.
- Who Needs It: Fire departments serving suburban or semi-rural areas that require a larger water supply.
- Key Features:
- 3,000-gallon poly water tank
- High-performance water pump for reliable delivery
- Sturdy aluminum body for off-road conditions
- Spacious storage compartments for extra gear
- Advanced firefighting foam system for enhanced suppression
4000 Gallon Tanker
The 4000 Gallon Tanker is the largest in the Fouts Fire lineup, built to handle large-scale emergencies. Its heavy-duty construction and massive water capacity make it a dependable option for departments needing to deliver large volumes of water in challenging situations.
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- Purpose: Best for extensive fires or situations where multiple trucks can’t respond.
- Who Needs It: Fire departments in rural areas or industrial zones facing large-scale emergencies.
- Key Features:
- 4,000-gallon water tank for maximum supply
- Heavy-duty reinforced chassis for durability
- High-performance pump for sustained water delivery
- Auxiliary water pumps to enhance distribution
- Advanced lighting for better visibility during night operations
Aerial Ladder Trucks
Aerial ladder trucks are built for firefighting rescues at high heights. With extendable ladders that reach multi-story buildings, these trucks are ideal for urban fire response. They provide quick access to upper floors, roof ventilation, and elevated water streams for large fires.
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- Purpose: Designed for high-rise rescues, ventilation, and delivering water to high elevations in urban and industrial areas.
- Who Needs It: Essential for city fire departments, industrial fire teams, and airports where reaching higher levels is necessary.
- Key Features:
- Extendable ladder with a waterway for elevated firefighting
- Stabilization outriggers for safe operation at height
- Large-capacity water pump and onboard foam system
- Spacious compartments for additional rescue and firefighting gear
Rescue Trucks
Rescue trucks haul the specialized tools and equipment needed for vehicle extrications, hazmat incidents, and technical rescues.Â
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- Purpose: Designed to carry a variety of rescue equipment for specialized operations.
- Who Needs It: Ideal for fire departments handling a wide range of emergencies, including structural fires, medical rescues, and support for large-scale incidents.
- Key Features:
- Specialized hydraulic rescue toolsÂ
- Ample storage space to securely store equipment
- Stabilization tools and other technical rescue equipment
Wildland Fire Trucks
Wildland fire trucks are created to handle off-road environments and tackle fires in forests, grasslands, and remote areas. These trucks are lightweight, mobile, and equipped for fighting fires far from water sources.
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- Purpose: Made for wildland firefighting in areas where mobility and water conservation are key.
- Who Needs It: Rural departments and wildfire response teams.
- Key Features:
- 4×4 off-road capabilities
- Smaller water tanks (200-750 gallons)
- High-pressure pumps for water efficiency
- Heat-resistant shields for crew protection
Quint Fire Trucks
Quint trucks, also known as Hybrid trucks, are multi-functional trucks that combine a pumper’s water capabilities with an aerial ladder’s height. They’re designed to handle multiple tasks in a single unit, making them efficient and adaptable.
- Purpose: Hybrid truck built for a variety of rescue operations.
- Who Needs It: Departments need a single truck to handle both water supply and aerial work.
- Key Features:
- Extendable ladder with waterway
- Pump, hose, and water tank
- Compact design for confined spaces
- Versatility for both urban and suburban settings
Heavy Rescue Trucks
Heavy rescue trucks are built for large-scale rescue operations and come loaded with advanced tools and command capabilities. They’re important for situations like building collapses or multi-vehicle accidents.
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- Purpose: Designed for technical rescues, hazmat spills, and major vehicle accidents.
- Who Needs It: Departments responding to large-scale emergencies that require specialized equipment and coordination.
- Key Features:
- Hydraulic tools and cutting equipment
- Onboard command center
- Cranes, winches, and other heavy-duty tools
- Extensive storage for specialized rescue gear
Choose The Right Fire Truck For You
Having the right fire truck on hand is critical for keeping communities safe. From urban firefighting to rural water delivery and complex rescue operations, each type of fire truck plays a key role in protecting lives and property.
Since 1952, Fouts Fire has been providing reliable, high-quality fire apparatus to departments nationwide. With a history of innovation and a focus on customer satisfaction, Fouts Fire continues to deliver durable, cost-effective solutions that meet the demands of modern firefighting.
When it’s time to upgrade your fire engine or add new capabilities, trust Fouts Fire to provide the durable, high-performing apparatus you need. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Fouts Fire ensures your department is ready for any challenge. Fill out our Find Your Dealer form to receive a quote for any of our fire apparatus models.Â
