The FDIC International showroom floor was once again packed with apparatus and equipment manufacturers. It was a fantastic experience to speak to the manufacturers and view the newest equipment available to the fire service.
As one walks around the venue, you can sense the amount of pride that exists in the fire service just by looking at the rigs. Engines, trucks, rescue, tankers, chief’s vehicles, ambulances, and specialty vehicles grace the floor space with many having a common theme, to provide service to communities across the country.
From small towns to big city rigs, you’ll see it all at this show. Although the rigs might differ in appearance and functionality, they do have one thing in common: company and department pride.
Unique logos and department signage adorned many of the rigs. Whether it’s on the cab, upper area of the body or on the rear of the apparatus, each department is quick to showcase its pride to the public.
Let’s take a look at some of the rigs at this year’s show.
Michael N. Ciampo is a 38-year veteran of the fire service and a Lieutenant in the Fire Department of New York. Previously he served with the District of Columbia Fire Department. He has a bachelor’s degree in fire science from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. He was the lead instructor for FDIC International Truck Essentials HOT program. He wrote the Ladders and Ventilation chapters for Fire Engineering’s Handbook for Firefighter 1 & 2 and the Bread-and-Butter Portable Ladders DVD. He writes the back page column On Fire in Fire Engineering and is featured in Training Minutes truck company videos on FireEngineering.com. Recently he wrote the textbook Tower Ladders, Tactics, Tips & Tales.