The two new engines replace existing ones, which will be going into the department's reserve fire apparatus pool. Photo courtesy Charleston, S.C. Fire Department.
The Charleston, S.C., fire department has received and put into service two new fire engines. The engines are Pierce Arrow XT models, and they replace a model from 1989 and 1991. The City moved the older models to the reserve fire apparatus fleet.
"The addition of these two engines continues the City's commitment to upgrading the fleet with state of the art apparatus,” said Deputy Fire Chief John Tippet. “The increased firefighting capacity, improved safety features, equipment upgrades, and standardization of the fleet are providing the firefighting force with the best tools to protect the community."
According to the City’s fire department, each new vehicle has been equipped with 1,500 GPM pumps and 750 gallon booster tanks. In addition, each carries 1,400 ft. of supply hose, 1,100 ft. of 2.5-inch hose, 650 ft. of 1.88-inch hose, and a front trash line. Each engine’s body has high side compartments on each side equipped with ladders, pike poles, and back boards (stored inside). Other features include LED warning lights, a seat belt monitoring system, an officer-side speedometer, a generator, and seating for five people. One of the engines has also been equipped with extrication equipment.
