Why Fire Truck Prices Have Doubled in the Past Decade

Fire departments and municipalities, both here in Richmond and throughout the country, have noticed a significant increase in the price of new trucks. These increases strain already limited budgets and potentially put firefighters and communities at risk. But critics say they are not by accident. Alleged intentional market manipulation by a handful of key corporate…

Read More

Are Fire Departments Overpaying for Fire Trucks?

Every city government and fire department has wrestled with questions about the costs of fire apparatus, but more so in recent years. Some observers have noted that costs are at record highs and have contributed to a serious crisis. Departments and local governments must consider whether they are being gouged and whether laws are being…

Read More

Senate Inquiry into Fire Truck Manufacturers Explained

The rising costs, market consolidation, and production delays of fire trucks are not just local phenomena. The ongoing fire apparatus crisis has gotten the attention of the federal government. A U.S. Senate inquiry into alleged questionable business practices has provided an impetus for departments and municipalities to take legal action. If you represent a fire…

Read More

What Cities Can Do About Rising Fire Apparatus Costs

The massive price hikes of fire apparatus have left city governments scrambling for solutions. Already tight budgets are being reworked to try to find the funds necessary to purchase new trucks and equipment. Meanwhile, some cities are pouring their limited resources into repairs and maintenance as a way of handling their aging fleets. There is…

Read More

Why Fire Departments Are Waiting Years for New Fire Apparatus

Anyone who has ever served as a firefighter knows that time is of the essence when it comes to emergencies. Delays can mean the difference between life and death. Unfortunately, the fire apparatus industry itself is experiencing significant and dangerous delays in receiving new equipment. These delays are frustrating to the men and women who…

Read More