Pierce Manufacturing, an Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE:OSK) company, placed a Pierce Arrow XT custom firefighting apparatus, equipped with a Snozzle High Reach Extendable Turret (HRET) featuring a piercing nozzle, at the Elizabeth Fire Department located in Elizabeth, New Jersey. The vehicle, expected to respond to over 1,000 calls per year, will also operate as a specialized foam pumper. It joins three other Pierce Arrow XT vehicles purchased by the department within the past year.
“The tough and reliable Pierce Arrow XT, matched with the innovative Snozzle HRET, is a powerful combination for a wide range of emergency responses,” said Jim Johnson, Oshkosh Corporation executive vice president and president, Fire & Emergency. “The fast set-up time and penetrating nozzle technology allow firefighters to quickly discharge more extinguishing agent directly where it is needed–while keeping them farther out of harm’s way.”
Elizabeth Fire Department also purchased a Ford F-450 utility vehicle that carries a 1,000-pound dry chemical system to supply dry chemical powder to the Snozzle apparatus. Additionally, in the past year, the department purchased three Pierce Arrow XT vehicles including a stock pumper, a 2,000-gpm pumper, and a 100-foot aerial ladder.
In addition to industrial, commercial, and residential areas, the Elizabeth Fire Department’s protection district includes portions of Newark International Airport as well as a major portion of the largest container seaport on the East Coast. The Snozzle is a versatile device that operates above or below grade, and can pierce a shipping container. When operating as a foam pumper, the apparatus will enhance the fire department’s foam-making capabilities.
Built on the Arrow XT chassis with dual rear axles, the Snozzle-equipped vehicle sports a 500-hp engine, five-speed pushbutton transmission, and a Command Zone advance electronics system. The 10-inch raised roof cab provides seating for six firefighters, includes a pair of forward facing EMS cabinets, and is equipped with Pierce’s front impact and side roll protection systems. The vehicle also features a 750-gallon water tank, dual deck guns, a 2,000-gpm pump, a Husky 60 foam system, a Hydrochem nozzle, and a 300-gallon foam cell.
The Pierce-exclusive Snozzle HRET, with a hardened carbide steel tip and a perforated nozzle, enables firefighters to penetrate virtually any material in a building, cargo container, or other structure. Its ability to discharge from 20 feet below grade to elevations as high as 65 feet gives the apparatus maximum versatility.
Established 350 years ago, the City of Elizabeth is New Jersey’s birthplace and, today, is a hub for transportation, shipping, and industrial and retail businesses. The first fire company in Elizabeth (Protection Engine Co. 1) was established in 1789. Today, the Elizabeth Fire Department is comprised of 269 firefighters and more than 50 EMS personnel.
Pierce dealer, Fire & Safety Services of South Plainview, New Jersey, provides local service and support through its full service facilities and seven trained mechanics.
