The Right Tools for the Job

Fire departments have always shared one mission – protecting their communities from danger. But while that mission remains the same, the hazards firefighters face has evolved dramatically. From large structure fires to complex vehicle rescues and emergency medical calls, modern firefighters must be equipped with the right tools to meet every challenge head-on.

For the Allen Park Fire Department, those tools come in the form of three highly specialized pieces of equipment: Engine 52, Engine 51 and Ladder 51. Each of these vehicles plays a vital role in the department’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to any emergency within the community.


Engine 52: The Frontline Responder

At the heart of Allen Park Fire Department’s fleet is Engine 52, a 2017 Pierce fire engine that serves as the department’s primary response unit. Designed to handle both residential and commercial fires, Engine 52 is also equipped to respond to medical emergencies as a non-transporting Paramedic unit.

Engine 52 is powered by a 1,500-gallon-per-minute (GPM) pump and includes a 20-gallon foam tank, providing firefighters with an added edge in combating chemical or fuel-based fires. Its versatility doesn’t stop there – the truck also carries battery-operated hydraulic rescue tools, commonly known as the Jaws of Life, allowing crews to extricate victims trapped in vehicles after serious accidents.


Engine 51: The Support Workhorse

Complementing Engine 52 is Engine 51, a 2008 Pierce model known for its strength and adaptability. This apparatus is typically the first on scene for vehicle, dumpster and grass fires, as well as commercial vehicle incidents.

Engine 51 is equipped with the same 1,500 GPM pump as its newer counterpart but includes a specialized transmission system that allows the engine to pump water while in motion. This rare capability enables firefighters to reposition the truck while continuing to spray water – an invaluable advantage during large grass or vehicle fires.

In addition to its frontline duties, Engine 51 serves as the second-due engine during residential and commercial fires, taking on the critical task of establishing a hydrant connection to maintain a steady water supply for Engine 52.


Ladder 51: The Heavy Hitter

Towering above the rest – literally and figuratively – is Ladder 51, a 2007 Pierce aerial ladder truck. As the largest and most specialized piece of equipment in Allen Park Fire Department’s fleet, Ladder 51 features a 100- foot extendable ladder topped with a rescue bucket and powered by a 2,000 GPM fire pump.

This apparatus plays a critical role in high-rise rescues, rooftop operations and large-scale fire suppression. From transporting firefighters and equipment to upper floors to dousing flames from above, Ladder 51 provides unmatched reach and versatility.

Its capabilities were put to the test during the American House Senior Living Facility fire in Southgate, where Ladder 51 was among five ladder trucks assisting in the massive rescue and suppression effort. Over 80 emergency personnel worked together to safely evacuate residents and bring the fire under control, a testament to the importance of having advanced apparatus like Ladder 51 in the fleet.


Engine 51 Replacement: The Future

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), which not only establishes building codes but also provides recommendations for firefighting equipment safety, advises that front-line fire engines be replaced after 20 years of service. As Engine 51 is currently 17 years old, and with fire apparatus manufacturers projecting a two-tothree-year build time, the city has been proactively exploring alternative funding sources.

City Administrator Tom Murray, working in partnership with State of Michigan Representative Tullio Liberati, successfully secured $1.3 million in state funding to purchase a new fire engine and associated emergency equipment. This funding came as an unexpected but greatly appreciated surprise for both the city and the fire department.


Always Ready to Respond

Each apparatus – Engine 52, Engine 51 and Ladder 51 – serves a distinct yet complementary role in Allen Park Fire Department’s mission. Together, they ensure that no matter the emergency – whether it’s a structure fire, vehicle crash or rescue operation, the department is equipped and ready to respond.

In a profession where seconds count and every tool matters, Allen Park Fire Department’s fleet stands as a proud example of modern firefighting excellence, combining strength, technology and skill to keep the community safe.