In Case of Emergency

Photograph of a Fire Captain's helmet through the windshield of the Fire Engine. Smeal Fire Engine with a Spartan Cab. This particular Cal Fire... more

by Marnie Patchett

Title

In Case of Emergency

Artist

Marnie Patchett

Medium

Photograph

Description

Photograph of a Fire Captain's helmet through the windshield of the Fire Engine. Smeal Fire Engine with a Spartan Cab. This particular Cal Fire engine responds out of San Luis Obispo.

A fire engine (also known in some territories as a fire apparatus, fire truck, or fire appliance) is a vehicle designed primarily for firefighting operations. In addition, many fire departments often employ their vehicles for various other uses including emergency medical services and rescue purposes. The terms "fire engine" and "fire truck" are often used interchangeably but in North America represent different types of vehicles.

The primary purposes of a fire engine include transporting firefighters to an incident scene, providing water with which to fight a fire, and carrying other equipment needed by the firefighters. A typical modern vehicle will carry tools for a wide range of firefighting and rescue tasks, with common equipment including ladders, a self-contained breathing apparatus, ventilating equipment, first aid kits, and hydraulic rescue tools.

Many fire vehicles are based on standard vehicle models (although some parts may be upgraded to cope with the demands of the vehicle's usage). They are normally fitted with audible and visual warnings, as well as communication equipment such as a two-way radios and mobile computer technology.

Uploaded

March 31st, 2016