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Welcome

The Finest Supporting the Bravest!

The purpose of the Fire Mechanics Section is to promote standardization of fire apparatus and equipment preventative maintenance, improve safety standards and practices, promote workshops, conferences, and seminars related to the purposes of this Section, and to promote cost savings through standardization of building and equipment purchasing and maintenance.

RECENT FIRE MECHANIC NEWS

Fire Department Practices with Brush Buggy for Wildfires

Posted: Jul 30, 2025

Fire Department Practices with Brush Buggy for Wildfires

Due to the upcoming wildfire season, the Ward 1 Fire Department in Lake Charles, Louisiana, has introduced a “brush buggy” into firefighter training. According to a kplctv.com article, the department shared that they are a type of side-by-side four-wheel drive vehicle equipped to hose down fires.

Robert Watson, a firefighter in the department, shared that this method is much faster than older methods. They are able to reach more land and get deeper into the woods when necessary.

The brush buggy can carry 84 gallons of water, whereas pumpers can hold up to 1,000 gallons. In extreme cases, the engines will more likely be used, but the brush buggy can serve as a quick solution.

The new brush buggy, along with new fire hose, nozzles and portable radios, was purchased through a $150,000 grant from the State of Louisiana.

The post Fire Department Practices with Brush Buggy for Wildfires appeared first on Fire Apparatus: Fire trucks, fire engines, emergency vehicles, and firefighting equipment.

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Pumper Stalled in Floodwaters Is FD’s Second Apparatus Damaged This Year

Posted: Jul 30, 2025

Pumper Stalled in Floodwaters Is FD’s Second Apparatus Damaged This Year

The Montgomery County (MD) Fire and Rescue Services Department lost a pumper after it became stranded in flash floodwater on July 20, 2025, in Silver Spring. This is the second vehicle to be taken out of commission by the department this year.

According to a bethesdamagazine.com article, Assistant Chief Dan Ogren confirmed that the vehicle had only been in service for a few months before this incident. Ogren states the department is unsure if the engine can be repaired or if a new one will have to be purchased. It could take up to 18 months for a new engine to be delivered.

The pumper damaged in floodwaters comes a month and a half after the fire department deemed a water tanker a total loss. It was involved in a rollover collision that injured a firefighter and civilian.

PHOTOS: Annual Antique Fire Muster Held in Frankenmuth (MI), Part 3

The Frankenmuth (MI) held its annual Antique Fire Muster, July 25-26, 2025. The event included fire truck displays, pumping events, and even a parade.

Frankenmuth is a member of the Great Lakes International Antique Fire Apparatus Association.

Photos by David Traiforos. More photo galleries: Part 1 | Part 2

Cary (NC) FD Puts Electric Pumper in Service; First on East Coast

Posted: Jul 30, 2025

Cary (NC) FD Puts Electric Pumper in Service; First on East Coast

The Cary (NC) Fire Department has put the first electric pumper in service, making it the first on the East Coast. According to an abc11.com article, the electric pumper’s quiet operation makes for a safer and calmer working environment for firefighters.

The $1.8 million Pierce Volterra electric pumper can operate in full-electric mode and transition to diesel backup when needed. This model is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 60% in its 20-year lifespan.

On June 20, the Volterra was the first apparatus on scene at a residential fire. Having responded to other calls that day, it arrived on scene with 87% battery and left with 42% remaining. By the time that firefighters were finished decontaminating, the pumper was already charged to 90% battery and ready for the next call.

Chief Mike Cooper shares that reliability is non-negotiable when it comes to public safety and this new rig follows that ideology. Cooper confirms that the Pierce Volterra will advance the department’s sustainability and resiliency goals, while also strengthening operations.

The post Cary (NC) FD Puts Electric Pumper in Service; First on East Coast appeared first on Fire Apparatus: Fire trucks, fire engines, emergency vehicles, and firefighting equipment.