Big performances from tight spaces

Custom fire apparatus manufacturer seeks custom reel solutions

Posted on 07/14/2021

Since 1978, CustomFIRE has specialized in the design and construction of high-end customized fire apparatus. With state-of-the art engineering processes, every truck is built to unique customer needs.

“We custom build every truck, so it’s important for us to partner with a supplier that seamlessly fits into our business model,” says Wayde Kirvida, Factory Sales Representative at CustomFIRE.

The family-owned business was recently tasked with outfitting several Hannay reels on a rescue truck for Fame Fire Company, one of three all-volunteer fire companies making up the West Chester Fire Department in Pennsylvania. Fame volunteers perform technical and swift water rescue as well as extrication and response to motor vehicle accidents.

With an updated fleet, Fame needed to meet requirements set by the fire company such as a stainless steel body, the ability to seat 10 firefighters, and to be no longer than the company’s aerial ladder at 43 feet overall.

“When you’re dealing with a fire truck, space is at a premium. It’s a priority to find ways to creatively occupy space on the vehicle to maximize the potential for rescue equipment. This affects everything on the vehicle including the hose reel,” adds Kirvida.

For those needs, CustomFIRE turned to Hannay Reels as they have been since the 1970s.

“We’ve been using Hannay reels since my dad was building grass rigs as a side job – before we were even an incorporated company,” notes Kirvida.

Hannay Reels supplied hydraulic, electric, and air hose reels for Fame’s inventive roll-out ceiling enclosure.

“The drive motor position is a huge factor for us. In some cases we use inboard motors to optimize space, while others require outboard motors to keep the depth and height down. Hannay provides us with a lot of flexibility on those options,” says Kirvida.

In an industry where the lives of the crew and community are on the line, CustomFIRE is committed to delivering equipment that can perform to the highest levels in extreme conditions.

“When building fire trucks, we’re the assemblers responsible for choosing and installing components. So we always choose components with consistent and predictable levels of performance and that’s a Hannay reel,” added Kirvida.

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Categories: Customer Testimonials

Topics: Customer Testimonials