The Cambridge, Massachusetts Fire Department’s new HazMat 1 truck was placed in full service Monday, Aug. 26, cambridgema.gov reported.
HazMat 1 is an electric vehicle (EV), built by Rosenbauer, on a 2023 International chassis. The apparatus includes a command post with electronic research library and is fully equipped to support our Cambridge Fire Hazardous Materials Task Force at hazardous materials incidents in the city as well as in mutual aid communities as needed.
This truck is believed to be the first electric powered fire apparatus in service in New England.
Equipment carried includes sampling meters and kits to test gaseous, liquid, and solid products; radiation meters; personal protective equipment (entry suits, self-contained breathing apparatus, boots, gloves); containment equipment (booms, absorbent materials, drums, patches, plugs, and diking materials); hand tools (non-sparking wrenches, mallets, shovels, brooms, brushes); decontamination equipment; and much, much more. The truck also includes a roof-mounted light tower for use during night or low-visibility operations.
The truck was purchased with funds allocated by the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services
The new HazMat 1 EV replaces an older diesel-powered response vehicle.