Richard Marinucci

In major metropolitan areas and larger fire departments, there is delineation between engine companies and truck companies.

In smaller organizations, there may not be the same distinction, and engine companies may be asked to do many more functions on the fireground and even other emergency responses such as emergency medical services (EMS). As these responsibilities expand, the expectation for quality service does not diminish. This is a great challenge for fire departments and firefighters who must embrace this.

The role of the engine company is constantly evolving, and if you were to compare what was expected just a few years ago and what may be part of the job today, you may not realize how much has changed. Engine companies are asked to do more than deliver water. Some departments have licensed these vehicles to deliver paramedic service to supplement their EMS delivery system. Changes such as these have an impact on vehicle design, equipment storage, daily apparatus checks, and training for those assigned to the engine.

Occasionally evaluating the functions expected of the engine company is a good idea. This would start with a review of the various responsibilities and corresponding equipment needs. The amount of equipment needed definitely affects space needs and usage of available compartmentation. For those organizations that license their engines for EMS response, they are very aware of the constraints placed on them as they look to fit everything into a suitable space. But, it is more than looking at the “extra” assignments.

Engine Company Expectations

Will the engine company be asked to do more than deliver water? Will it need forcible entry tools, laddering capabilities, and other more traditional truck functions? There are space considerations and there can be weight issues. Do you know your gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)? Departments can continue to add weight to the point where they overload the apparatus. This can be very dangerous and lead to other problems. If your organization has changed what is being carried on your vehicle, have the vehicle weighed to make sure you are operating within acceptable limits.

The questions don’t stop there. Is your vehicle routinely operating on the roadway? If so, the vehicle must be marked properly and in accordance with applicable standards. It must carry traffic cones and should consider arrow boards or directional lighting. While these may be obvious and not necessarily overtaxing in appearance, they are considerations that should not be approached haphazardly. The firefighters on the vehicle need to receive the proper training and be issued the corresponding safety equipment such as reflective vests. There should be some awareness of the Manual for Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). If all members assigned to a vehicle that responds to roadway incidents are not aware, they are remiss in their preparation and responsibilities.

Often, engine companies are outfitted to begin an initial response to hazmat incidents or special rescue situations such as ice or water rescue, confined space, high-angle, collapse, or trench rescue events. The same questions still apply. Based on the organization’s desires to assign responsibilities to engine companies, the suitable equipment must be acquired. Then space must be found on the vehicle. If this is not all accounted for in an organized planning process, you may have overloaded compartments, equipment in places that are somewhat precarious,