There’s also the sudden and almost overpowering urge to redecorate the Medlar Field parking lot with trampolines and pillow-top mattresses — but maybe that’s not everyone.

Alpha firefighters Brian Rohrbaugh and Forrest Rothrock, for instance, seemed totally nonplussed by the change in altitude. They are used to this, after all.

The Alpha Fire Company has two other aerial firetrucks, each with a range of 75 feet and a tendency to experience turbulence during takeoff.

Wednesday’s ride was smooth, a fluid demonstration of the new rig in action and about as close to challenging gravity as one can get without wings.

“It’s great. It’s very smooth compared to the others,” Rohrbaugh said.

Those SUVs don't carry fire hoses and their crews aren't allowed to transport patients but Nashville Fire Deputy Director Chief Mike Franklin says they are useful and easier to maneuver.

"Let's say you're going to a person down at the Convention Center. It's easier to use this unit in heavier traffic as opposed to a bigger unit," said Franklin.

The SUVs contain both basic medical gear and basic firefighting gear.

Two EMT trained members of the five person engine teams man them.

A lot of those calls end up at various agencies that serve the homeless like the Room in the Inn where as many as 400 people might be served on a given day.

"They are an absolute wonderful partner," said Rachel Hester. "Sometimes it's a a heart attack they may be having a heart attack or someone is having a seizure that's uncontrollable."

Hester says those firefighters have saved lives on those calls.

Chief Franklin says they're also saving money.

Each SUV helps add another 2 to 5 years of service for the fire engine they're connected to.