The primary piece of firefighting apparatus designed to deliver water to a fire. It features a high-capacity pump, a water tank, and beds of supply and attack hose. Engines are built to establish a water supply from a hydrant or static source and push pressurized water to handlines or master streams.
Heard on the job
We need the fire engine to pull past the address and leave room for the truck to set up the aerial.
Insider tip
Insiders rarely say fire engine, preferring just engine or pumper.
Also heard as
- engine
- pumper
Do not mix it up with
- Fire truck: An engine carries water, hose, and a pump to extinguish fires, whereas a truck carries ground ladders, an aerial device, and rescue tools.
Related terms
Fire truck
A specialized apparatus equipped with an aerial device, ground ladders, and heavy rescue tools.
Triple combination engine
A firefighting vehicle that features an onboard water supply, a powerful pump, and storage for hoses.
Apparatus
Any specialized vehicle used by a fire department for emergency response.