Specifically, Lacon-Sparland's truck committee wanted a minimum 500-gallon-per-minute (gpm) midmount pump, a larger water tank, plenty of compartment space to allow for additional equipment storage in the future, and a closer cab-to-water-tank fit.
Improvements in radio technology including speaker mics, background noise suppression, better compatibility with other radios, longer battery life, and better ergonomic design have made radios a much more effective fireground tool. ALAN M. PETRILLO
This and last month's columns were prompted by several "public inputs" (formerly public proposals) to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fire Apparatus Technical Committee in September 2013.
Spec writing should be as functional as the apparatus you are spec'ing; remember to keep the process simple to help make the overall purchasing process run smoother. BILL ADAMS
The health of the fire apparatus and equipment market may not seem relevant to everyone, but the ability of the industry to turn a profit greatly affects the amount it can spend on product research and development.
Bromley, Kentucky, is a small town of a half square mile with a fewer than 1,000-person population across the Ohio River from Cincinnati in Kenton County.