The purchase, made possible by a generous State of Colorado grant, of two Rosenbauer RTX fire engines puts Boulder, Colorado on the map nationally and represents the dedication that the community has to safety for first responders and positive impacts to community climate goals.

BOULDER, Colorado. – The City of Boulder is prioritizing first responder safety and climate goals by purchasing the city’s second electric fire engine. This announcement comes nearly a year after the city announced the purchase of its first electric engine in spring 2023. These two Rosenbauer RTX fire trucks make Boulder, Colorado the first city to have two electric fire engines, putting it on the national map as a city fire department that prioritizes first responder safety and community climate goals.

“The City of Boulder is certainly known for approaching new opportunities that improve our community and our climate and these engines are a great example of that,” said Battalion Chief Travis Richen. “It is easy to lean-into a new technology when its priority is maintaining and improving the efficiency of our jobs and the safety of our crews.”

The RTX seamlessly integrates the power of an all-electric driveline, efficiently managing driving operations. In addition, its advanced pump system operates electrically, providing enhanced functionality. The energy backup system, designed for flexibility and redundancy, plays a crucial role. Not only can it recharge the batteries, but it can also take over pumping operations during extended incidents, ensuring a reliable and resilient firefighting solution.

“The RTX is equipped with additional features that set it apart and prove invaluable for Boulder firefighters in optimizing their efficiency” said Todd McBride, RTX Sales & Marketing Manager for Rosenbauer. “Among its distinctive attributes are state-of-the-art ergonomic technologies that prioritize firefighter health and safety. Notably, the RTX includes an adjustable suspension, allowing it to raise and lower its ride heights based on the terrain.”

The adjustable suspension allows the truck to be lowered to a mere 7 inches above the ground facilitating seamless entry and exit from the cab, reducing strain on firefighters and minimizing the reach height required to access equipment on the scene. Adding to its versatility, the RTX features standard all-wheel drive, distinguishing it from current engines. The introduction of an off-road mode allows for improved winter driving in Colorado’s extreme conditions, further highlighting the RTX’s adaptability.

With two RTX fire engines in-service, the occupational safety of city fire-rescue crews will be greatly improved. Firefighters will be able to respond to calls with a reduced exposure to carcinogenic fumes and noise. Not only do these engines prioritize the health and safety of the city’s firefighters but they also meet Boulder’s mission to address climate change.

“Reducing air pollution from gas-powered vehicles is critical to addressing Colorado’s unique air quality challenges. It’s encouraging that organizations are stepping up to take part in our programs to ease access to low- and zero-emission options,” said Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Air Pollution Control Division Director Michael Ogletree. “Organizations that participate in the transition to cleaner vehicles will help further protect the environment and health for Coloradans in their communities.”

Boulder’s second electric fire engine is possible because of a generous grant provided by CDPHE. The new fire engine will have many features that better support firefighters and our community while also continuing to be a reliable and effective first responder vehicle. “Residents can rest assured that our crews will arrive and respond in this new rig with the resources and care that they usually do,” said Chief Richen. “The amazing thing about this engine is that it functions more effectively than our legacy engines because of the built in option to power the engine in two ways: electric and diesel.” With these RTX engines, Boulder Fire-Rescue crews can anticipate a durable response vehicle with less of a chance of service interruptions. Both CDPHE and the City of Boulder value the role of electric vehicles that can perform under challenging conditions to meet higher standards of service to the community, safety, and climate goals.

More information about Rosenbauer’s RTX engines in Boulder
More general information about the Rosenbauer RTX

About the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment: CDPHE serves Coloradans by providing services to promote healthy people in healthy places. CDPHE uses evidence-based practices to foster a sustainable environment for current and future generations of Coloradans to thrive. CDPHE pursues its mission through multiple programs and activities to advance Coloradans’ health and wellness and protect the state’s environment.

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In the City of Rancho Cucamonga’s 2022 General Plan Update, the topics of mobility, ecology, and urbanization were important when it came to environmental protection and traffic management. The new Rosenbauer RTX will support these efforts by reducing the Fire District’s carbon footprint and noise emissions. The Rosenbauer RTX is the first fire engine to incorporate an all-electric drivetrain that eliminates the engine, transmission, and drivelines typically found in a traditional apparatus.  Rather, the Rosenbauer RTX has an electric drivetrain for near silent operations during non-pumping activities and is supported by an energy backup system that can recharge batteries for extended operations, emergencies, and natural disaster response. 

In addition to the innovative electric technology, the Rosenbauer RTX incorporates ergonomic and tactical advantages for less physical strain on fire personnel and greater operational success. The engine can change from a low center of gravity street-based fire engine to an off-road height fire engine with 4-wheel drive capability, allowing for increased, flexible response capabilities for the City’s diverse topography. The Rosenbauer RTX will also be the first clean cab in the Fire District’s apparatus fleet, as firefighters’ turnout gear will be stored in the outside compartments of the engine, reducing their exposure to carcinogens in the line of duty.

“Our top priority is the health and safety of our community and firefighters. We are proud to incorporate the Rosenbauer RTX into our fleet, as it aligns with our commitment to minimizing the exposure of toxic air contaminants and safeguarding our firefighters from harmful chemicals.” – Mike McCliman, City of Rancho Cucamonga Fire Chief

“One of our City Council’s core values is the relentless pursuit of improvement, a value shared by Rosenbauer. They have completely redesigned the fire engine from the ground up, ensuring our first responders have the resources and tools necessary to respond to emergency incidents while also reducing carbon emissions and improving environmental sustainability.” – Dennis Michael, City of Rancho Cucamonga Mayor

We are honored to continue our partnership with the Rancho Cucamonga Fire District and provide them with the groundbreaking Rosenbauer RTX Electric Fire Engine. By adopting this cutting-edge technology, together we are not only enhancing operational capabilities but also contributing to the city’s environmental goals. This marks another step in our shared commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability.” – Tim Noeding, General Sales Manager, Velocity Fire Equipment Sales / Rosenbauer Dealer for Southern California, Arizona, and Southern Nevada.

About the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District: Rancho Cucamonga is located approximately 35 miles east of Los Angeles, at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, and is home to more than 176,000 residents. The Rancho Cucamonga Fire District provides vital fire and life safety services to residents, visitors and businesses in a 50 square mile area. Stay informed with Rancho Cucamonga Fire District activities by visiting www.RCFire.org, following on X (@RCFD_PIO), and liking us on Facebook and Instagram.

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“Every year, examples of foreign direct investment are recognized by Governor Walz during the Governor’s International Trade Awards luncheon. In light of Rosenbauer America’s growth and transition into electric vehicle (EV) firetrucks, they been selected to receive the Governor’s International Trade Award for excellence in foreign direct investment, “said Kevin McKinnon, Deputy Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Economic Development and Research.

The Governor’s International Trade Awards recognize Minnesota companies that have shown exceptional progress and success in exports to foreign markets, as well as foreign-owned companies that have made significant economic contributions through their investments in the state of Minnesota.

Edmund Penz, Director of RTX and EV Technology receiving the award on behalf of Rosenbauer America.

“We are very proud to hear that the presence from Rosenbauer in Minnesota and our investment in the future of firefighting is well recognized, “said Edmund Penz, Director of RTX and EV Technology for Rosenbauer America.

Rosenbauer’s presence in Minnesota is storied. Beginning in Lindstrom, MN in 1929, General Safety Fire Equipment supplied fire engines to communities all over Minnesota. 66 years later, General Safety joined forces with Rosenbauer International of Leonding, Austria. Based in Wyoming, MN, Rosenbauer Minnesota and Rosenbauer Motors employ over 450 people and help produce over 700 fire apparatus annually that are in service worldwide.

Built from the ground up as a new type of emergency vehicle, the Rosenbauer RTX electric fire engine will soon be ready to be deployed in Minnesota’s capital. St. Paul Fire Department will join Los Angeles City, Vancouver, Brampton, Boulder and many other cities leading the charge in electrifying their firefighting fleets.

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Vancouver Fire-Rescue Services Enhances Fleet with Cutting-Edge Rosenbauer RTX Electric Fire Engine

Vancouver, December 6, 2023 – Vancouver Fire-Rescue Services is proud to announce the integration of the cutting-edge Rosenbauer RTX Electric Fire Engine into its firefighting fleet, continuing the city’s commitment to prioritizing the health and safety of its firefighting personnel. This cutting-edge addition, officially commissioned on Monday, December 4, underlines the department’s commitment to optimizing operational environments and ensuring the safety of its dedicated firefighters.

Recognizing the demanding nature of their profession, Vancouver Fire-Rescue Services sought a vehicle that not only addressed the environmental impact but, more crucially, prioritized the ergonomic needs of the firefighters.  “Our foremost objective in acquiring this asset is to elevate the well-being and safety of our firefighters during their daily operations. Our commitment is centered on cultivating an environment that prioritizes their health and safety” stated Fire Chief Karen Fry.

Vancouver, known for its stunning natural surroundings and as the host of the 2010 Winter Olympics, is the most densely populated city in the country. Deputy Fire Chief Tyler Moore explains, “We have about 19,000 people per square kilometer in the inner city, which is the fourth-highest volume in North America.” In this dynamic environment, Vancouver Fire-Rescue Services handles an average of ten reported fires per day, totaling 3,600 fires annually.

Vancouver Fire-Rescue Services faces unique challenges in a densely populated city with narrow alleys. Chief Fry explains, “In Vancouver, we have a ton of narrow alleys. The RTX’s compact size, short overhang, tight turning radius, and all-wheel steering make it the perfect fit for our high-density areas.” The vehicle’s versatility and efficiency ensure that firefighters can navigate challenging urban landscapes, responding promptly to emergencies.

Deputy Chief Moore emphasizes the importance of health and safety considerations in the acquisition decision, stating, “What was more important with this acquisition was that through the RTX’s adjustable suspension, the vehicle can be lowered, thus making it easier and safer for the firefighters to do their job.” The RTX’s design not only prioritizes ease of use, but also contributes to reducing stress levels for firefighters, ultimately promoting the firefighter’s overall well-being.

Todd McBride, Rosenbauer’s RTX Sales and Marketing Manager, noted, ‘In 2012, as Rosenbauer embarked on developing the RTX, cities like Vancouver took center stage in our thoughts. The vehicle was designed to address urbanization challenges in rapidly growing cities. Vancouver is a prime example of where the versatile features of the RTX can truly shine.”  

“The deployment of the RTX signifies a momentous milestone as the first electric fire engine to be placed into service in Canada.  This accomplishment adds a distinguished chapter to the nation’s firefighting innovation” said Glenn Jacques, President of Rosenbauer dealer Rocky Mountain Phoenix, which covers the extensive expanse of Western Canada.

Engine 1 is stationed at Fire Hall 1 in the downtown Vancouver area.  Engine 1 was placed into service on Tuesday, December 5^th at 4:00 PM and responded to its first call, a fire alarm, 20 minutes later.

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The new fire engine will have many state-of-the-art features that better support firefighters, our community, and the environment. The RTX is considered a Range Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV), meaning it has an all-electric drivetrain and pump with a diesel energy backup system. This new technology will allow the city to fight fires while safeguarding air quality and reducing climate-warming emissions.

The purchase also represents a broader movement to go electric that goes beyond personal vehicles to include larger, more powerful machines, including emergency vehicles that must be reliable and able to perform under challenging conditions.

“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 collaboration among departments – Fire-Rescue, Fleet & Facilities, and Climate Initiatives – has been exceptional and is an example of how we can address today’s challenges when we work together.”

The electric engine not only helps advance Boulder’s mission to address climate change, but also presents an opportunity to better serve the needs of an increasingly diverse firefighting workforce. The RTX engine was created with the primary goal of improving occupational safety for all firefighters. Improvements 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.

“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. “We’ve ensured that the equipment will be dependable and capable while also developing a better understanding about all the safety benefits the engine offers. 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, though the actual timeline may vary slightly, and will be determined as the build-out progresses. 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. 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. Nearly all of Boulder Fire-Rescue’s budget is from the General Fund, made possible through sales and use tax collections.

“I care deeply about the safety and well-being of our firefighters, and I’m excited about the next steps we are taking to better support them, while also helping achieve several city goals,” said Boulder Fire-Rescue Chief Michael Calderazzo. “This option is a win-win.”

For more information about Rosenbauer’s RTX, visit https://rosenbaueramerica.com/rosenbauer-revolutionary-technology/

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Established by Super Vacuum Mfg. Co., Inc., an industry leader in the manufacturing, sales and service of fire equipment, IKON Fire brings more than 50 years of apparatus sales and service to the region. Thanks to its central location in Fort Collins, Colo., just 70 miles north of Denver, Colorado and Wyoming departments now have a close resource for sales and service of Rosenbauer apparatus and equipment sales.

“Rosenbauer is thrilled to welcome IKON Fire to our dealer network to serve customers in Colorado and
Wyoming,” said Mark Fusco, President of Rosenbauer America. “IKON is well known and respected throughout the fire industry for the highest levels of integrity and customer service. IKON has convenient brick-and-mortar and mobile service options available for customers throughout Colorado and Wyoming.”

IKON is equally excited about the partnership. “We are proud to represent Rosenbauer and the company’s 150-year-old reputation. We share in Rosenbauer’s mission of saving lives and protecting property,” IKON Fire President Ron Weinmeister said. “We are excited to be an authorized dealer of Rosenbauer’s fire apparatus line, especially its aerial lineup. Colorado and Wyoming are experiencing amazing growth, and these vehicles will serve our community well.

Staffed by EVT-certified technicians, IKON’s 160,000-sq.-ft. facility provides chassis, engine and driveline
service, as well as accident repair and fire pump maintenance. “Our Fort Collins service center is ready and
equipped to service Rosenbauer customers immediately,” Weinmeister said.

IKON plans to display Rosenbauer demo units at the Fire Leadership Challenge, hosted by the Colorado State Fire Chiefs in Keystone, Colo., in mid-October 2023.

“IKON was a natural choice for Rosenbauer to partner with, making IKON Fire, LLC the premium authorized Rosenbauer sales and service dealership for Colorado and Wyoming,” Fusco finished.

About IKON Fire
IKON Fire is a fire apparatus and equipment dealer in Colorado and Wyoming, offering the Rosenbauer fire apparatus line, including aerials, pumpers and tankers. A company of Super Vacuum Mfg. Co., Inc., IKON’s sales team and service center is situated in Fort Collins, Colo. To learn more about IKON Fire, visit www.ikonfire.com.

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“We’re excited to be the first in the state to invest in this state-of-the-art fire truck,” said Mayor Carter. “It brings us all the critical green energy benefits of an electric vehicle, while meeting the high safety and efficiency standards we have for all our fire equipment.”

In 2020, Saint Paul Fire received demonstrations of the RTX from Rosenbauer, and again in January of 2023. Members of the department’s training division, apparatus selection committee, and vehicle maintenance personnel were impressed with the maneuverability, safety features, and functionality during these demonstrations.

“I was blown away by its overall performance and how quiet the rig is,” said Fire Chief Butch Inks. “Communication on fire scenes is important and can be extremely difficult, especially when six or seven loud diesel engines are operating in high idle.”

The investment in the RTX is in alignment with the City of Saint Paul Climate Action & Resilience Plan, which focuses on achieving carbon neutrality in city operations by 2030 and citywide by 2050. This work includes strategies to lessen the impacts of climate change through policy and regulatory actions the city can take to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to the changing climate, and improve quality of life in the city. In addition to furthering climate goals, this investment helps reduce diesel emissions and supports firefighters’ overall health and wellbeing.

“We take pride in our ability to identify and capitalize on opportunities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and improve city services at the same time,” said Chief Resilience Officer Russ Stark. “Because emissions from larger vehicles are some of the hardest to tackle, this is a big milestone toward realizing our climate goals.”

Rosenbauer has started the build process on an RTX electric fire truck for Saint Paul, with delivery expected by 2025. Final assembly of the city’s and state’s first electric fire truck will be completed at Rosenbauer’s facility in Wyoming, Minnesota, with delivery expected to coincide with completion of a new Fire Station 7 on the city’s East Side.

“The Rosenbauer RTX is the fire truck of the future,” said Todd McBride, RTX Sales and Marketing Manager of Rosenbauer America. “With over 10 years of research and development, the RTX is built from the ground up using the most advanced materials and technologies. The RTX is the safest fire truck available – for firefighters, for communities and for the environment.”

The City of Saint Paul is submitting federal earmark funding requests to support the purchase of the state’s first electric fire engine.

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In June 2021, Rosenbauer America won the award to build the city of San Francisco’s newest concept
combination hose tender + super pumpers. San Francisco’s specification required the trucks to sustain 5,500 GPM and be equipped with water-relay capabilities to extend the city’s water hydrant system in disaster situations. This apparatus is designed to allow the fire department to reliably protect the city and to supplement the current aging underground hydrant system. The truck’s specifications also included specific layout requirements to accommodate specialized firefighting equipment and hose compliment.

Rosenbauer partners with KASE Pumping Systems: Rosenbauer partnered with KASE Pumping Systems
near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to custom engineer this advanced pumping solution to meet the city’s
apparatus application requirements.

• Chris Kleinhuizen, Chief Engineer-Body Production for Rosenbauer Minnesota shared that, “KASE is the proven leader in carbon fiber, submersible pumps and custom engineered fluid transfer solutions. They specialize in corrosion-proof water transfer, emergency apparatus and other industry leading applications.”
• Chris later said that, “KASE was the natural choice as an innovation partner for this application to
  compliment Rosenbauer’s over 150 years of leading pump and apparatus manufacturing experience”. Rosenbauer and KASE signed a ten-year exclusive agreement to offer this industry leading, technologically advanced solution.
• The Rosenbauer N200 high-flow pump was rigorously tested in the most extreme conditions to ensure the specification and application met the requirements for the City of San Francisco. This included extreme-condition cold water testing in the Mississippi River. Chris Kleinhuizen was joined by Ben Sabel (St. Croix Falls Firefighter and Rosenbauer pumps supervisor), John Johnson (Oakdale, MN Firefighter and Rosenbauer Pumps Assembly Specialist), and Matt Hawkins (Rosenbauer Test Pit Supervisor) to successfully complete the certification and final testing requirements.

Rosenbauer N200 high-flow pump certified at 5,750 GPM: The Rosenbauer N200 high-flow pump is proudly certified at 5,750 GPM or comfortably operate +250 GPM over the required specification.

• In addition to the successful pumping capabilities, the Rosenbauer custom gearbox allows the apparatus to properly operate at 1400 RPM. This allows the Rosenbauer N200 pump to function much quieter vs. traditional municipal pumpers while still pumping nearly three times higher flow for this specialized, industrial application. A quieter fireground offers improved safety and communication for crews to operate.
• The San Francisco hose tender or super pumper is fully capable of reaching 6,500 GPM that will be
  certified in future tests.

Chris later went on to say, “We are really excited to deliver this new apparatus to the city of San Francisco,
a strategic new customer for us. Rosenbauer is proud to report that San Francisco has since awarded
Rosenbauer two additional apparatus since we began this partnership together in 2021”. Chris finished with, “thank you to all the Rosenbauer team members, Burton’s fire, the city of San Francisco and so many others for the countless hours to deliver this successful project outcome. Rosenbauer is committed to innovation and developing new solutions to meet the most severe applications to safely serve communities throughout the world.”

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After an electric vehicle (EV) caught fire in Vermillion, SD, local fire departments spent hours fighting the ensuing blaze. Jacob Newton of Keloland Local News and Weather details Rosenbauer’s solution for the resource intensive process.

The dangers and costs of fighting an EV fire are extensive. Fumes created by a lithium-ion battery fire are toxic and EV manufacturers are recommending up 8,000 gallons of water to fight an EV fire. Most commonly an EV catches fire when a battery cell is ruptured causing a chain reaction of thermal runaway within the battery pack. This chain reaction creates very high temperatures leading to a fire.

Rosenbauer offers the Battery Extinguishing System Technology (BEST) for fighting EV fires. When slid underneath the vehicle’s battery pack, the BEST punctures the housing in 8 milliseconds and floods the pack with cooling water. This brings the battery temperature to safe level where thermal runaway is stopped. The operator stays at a distance of 25 feet away to ensure safety.

More about the Rosenbauer Battery Extinguishing Sytem Technology (BEST)

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Commentary by Chief Master Sgt. Charles Clawson.

As the Air Force modernized its aircraft and rescue firefighting vehicle fleet with ultra-high-pressure vehicles, many firefighters across the career field did not jump on board with the new technology.

There were many criticisms of the vehicle, some calling it a mistake to procure. One of the criticisms was that UHP water streams did not hold up in windy conditions, nor did they knock down the heat as the old vehicles did. The fire department at Dyess Air Force Base was no different.

The 7th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire and Emergency Services  Flight’s ARFF vehicle fleet consists of one 500-gallon rapid intervention vehicle, two 3,000-gallon UHP Rosenbauer Panthers and one 1,500-gallon traditional high volume ARFF vehicle.

The Dyess AFB F&ES flight received the two Panthers in 2020. With URF vehicles making up 81% of its fleet, the department had several issues to overcome. First, no ARFF tactics were available on how firefighters could effectively use the technology. Second, personnel did not trust the equipment to do what it needed to do in an actual emergency. And third, firefighters were still operating with the same tactics developed 20-30 years ago for vehicles with lower pressures and much greater volumes.

The poor performance of the vehicles continued during JP-8 live-fire aircraft training. Flight leadership and operators knew the new trucks were not going anywhere anytime soon, and things had to change.

To make change happen, the department started to develop new tactics that best fit their operation with their given vehicle set.

In early 2021, the Dyess Fire Department began conducting two aircraft live-fire evolutions every month. Personnel tried new tactics and techniques, challenged past tactics, and even discarded several of them. They listened to everyone’s ideas, worked on a plan to implement them, and adjusted where needed.

When the department felt they had a good plan, different crews and shifts tried it, tested it and challenged it. Airmen would find holes in the tactic, make corrections, and continuously improve the process until it became effective. The fire chief, airmen, and everyone in-between started to feel confident with the new equipment. They began to believe they could rapidly control any fire with the UHP systems.

The Airmen completed all training without foam. Several stated, “If we can do this with just water, imagine how effective it would be with foam.”

The department learned a couple of lessons as they developed a new way to fight fires. First, a fully involved JP-8 pit fire cannot be fought with a hand line. Instead, firefighters have to hit the fire hard as they approach the turret, then dismount and advance hand lines for mop-up and conduct interior operations. Second, crews have proven the Rosenbauer Panthers 3,000-gallon UHP will quickly control and often wholly suppress a JP-8 fire. They proved this during several live-fire training evolutions and multiple real-world brakes and hydraulic fires.

Where did all these lessons take them?

At approximately 10:03 p.m. on April 20, Dyess AFB F&ES was dispatched to a reported B-1 aircraft fire. The first ARFF unit arrived on the scene at 10:05 and witnessed the entire aircraft’s left side on fire with flames extending 50-75 feet into the air. As Crash-44, a 3,000-gallon UHP Panther crew, approached the front of the aircraft, they discharged water directly at what appeared to be the main seat of the fire, the No. 1 engine. A few seconds later, Crash-33, the other 3,000-gallon UHP Panther crew, approached the front of the aircraft and positioned between Crash-44 and the fuselage, and utilized the bumper turret to begin pushing the flames away from the fuselage and attacking the ground fires. Crash-5, an RIV crew, positioned themselves at the aircraft’s rear to push flames away from the fuselage and extinguish ground fires.

All crews, especially Crash-44 and Crash-33, immediately noticed the effectiveness of the turrets while using water only and determined there was no need to activate the foam systems. They also noted that minimal radio communication was necessary during the initial operation. The muscle memory developed during the previous training allowed crews to make appropriate and practical decisions based on incident priorities and actions of previous crews in accordance with the department’s updated standard operating procedures.

Chief-2, the incident commander, immediately contacted maintenance personnel, determined rescue was not a concern, and directed Engine-12, a structural response team, to provide medical aid to two injured maintenance personnel. Crash-14, a standard 1,500-gallon ARFF, was staged but not utilized. At 10:10, seven minutes later, firefighters had extinguished all the fire. Chief-2 requested the water status of all vehicles, and all reported they were still over half full.

The firefighters at Dyess AFB have a new outlook on the effectiveness of UHP vehicles. Their new tactics have shown their capability to extinguish a major fire in minimal time, even without foam. UHP is here to stay, and with new confidence in what the equipment can do, the firefighters at Dyess AFB have no worries about being able to save an asset and ensure the flying mission continues at America’s only Lift and Strike base.

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