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How does an APC determine what it should purchase? What can the APC compare proposed LED lights to?

The Pahrump Valley quint has a Waterous 1,500-gpm side-mount pump, a 500-gallon polypropylene water tank, a 50-gallon foam tank, and a Waterous CAFS.

Shown are Sutphen rigs on scene and operating at a two-alarm fire in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1901, Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus, does not require an onboard generator on any of its various apparatus classifications. Nor does it require one under what specific minor equipment “shall be available” before a rig is placed in service.

The SA 75 aerial quint Sutphen delivered to Columbia is on a Monarch heavy duty custom chassis with a 62-inch extended four-door cab and 10-inch raised roof with seating for four firefighters, three in SCBA seats.

The Walker Township (PA) Fire Company got two KME engines, a 2013 and 2010, from the Eddington (PA) Fire Company in a deal brokered by Brindlee Mountain Fire Apparatus. (Photos courtesy of the Walker Township Fire Company.)

As long as the rig has an adequate water supply, and no one is screaming on the radio to raise or lower pump pressures, pump operators might let the pump do its own thing. Regardless of the reason, a lackadaisical attitude might develop that could be inherently dangerous on the fireground.

The Mabscott (WV) Volunteer Fire Department had previously purchased two custom engines from Sutphen Corp., so when it decided it needed new pumper on a short wheelbase that would be maneuverable for mountainous terrain, it again turned to Sutphen to build the rig.

Mandating service requirements is admirable. However, purchasers should realize there can be and probably should be a difference in providing “service” applicable to warranty issues and providing general “everyday” service and general maintenance capabilities.

If the real intent of writing what could be considered proprietary dimensions is to ensure the success of a preferred vendor, then so be it. Just bear in mind that the decision to write such a specification may have to be justified in a public forum.