The collective term for fire engines, ladder trucks, rescue squads, and specialized emergency vehicles. Unlike standard commercial trucks, these vehicles are custom-built with heavy-duty chassis, specialized pumps, water tanks, and compartments designed specifically for fire and rescue operations.
Heard on the job
We need to wash the apparatus and check the pump seals before the end of the shift.
Insider tip
Civilians say fire truck, but insiders refer to the entire fleet as apparatus and distinguish between engines and trucks based on their function.
Also heard as
- rig