Every five years the German Fire Protection Association sponsors Interschutz, the largest fire-service conference in the world — and arguably the Super Bowl of such events. Many people ask how Interschutz differs from FDIC and Fire-Rescue International in the United States. The answer, simply, is its size, which is roughly triple that of the U.S. conferences. The reason for the size disparity is equally simple: Because Interschutz only is held once every five years, manufacturers go “all out” with their booth space and expenditures, trying to outclass their competitors.

This year a record 1,350 exhibitors from 46 nations displayed their goods to more than 125,000 attendees from around the world. It took four days to traverse the five buildings and exterior displays. Here’s what I discovered along the way.

On the Rigs

Aerials: Aerials were everywhere, about 100 in number, from all over the world (except the U.S.). European technology leads the world in aerial design and innovations. This year was no exception, with the introduction of the 112-meter (364-foot) Bronto boom. “Scary” best describes this telescopic monster. It is so big that taking photos of it in its entirety was impossible.
The major European aerial manufacturers are not lacking in features and innovations. Compared to U.S. aerials, the European devices are longer and usually more advanced in their electronics.

Also, smaller aerials are much lighter in total weight and more compact in design. In most cases, European aerials are mounted on commercial-type chassis that feature short wheelbases and, in many cases, single axles. In addition, European aerials are known for their removable baskets, elevators, touchpad control consoles, electronic controls, impressive lengths and leading-edge technology.

The Iveco Magirus product line was quite impressive. Italy-based Iveco Magirus and Germany-based Metz are the world’s aerial leaders, with Finland-based Bronto the boom leader. Meanwhile, a Korean aerial company — Everdigm — appeared on the scene this year. Clearly, Bronto’s booms have had the biggest impact on North America. But until the NFPA allows the end user to define the need for ground ladders on aerials and truly internationalize the standard, don’t expect to see much change in the U.S. aerial landscape. It’s going to be quite a while before European, Japan, or even Korean aerials will be seen in numbers in the U.S.

ARFF: The world’s airports must be growing faster than the world’s economy, because there were more aircraft rescue firefighting units than at any previous conference. The leaders in this segment are Rosenbauer and Oshkosh, with several other companies chasing the big guys. The ARFF cabs on display at Interschutz were streamlined, with wide, quick-opening doors, and lots of glass. Multiplex electronics are making cab-control consoles look like a Boeing 777 jet. Oshkosh’s new Striker certainly was one of the most impressive in terms of design and appearance.

Pumpers: Five years ago, the compact (less than 30,000-pound gross vehicle weight) rescue pumper made its debut and it was predicted that this new type of pumper would grow quickly in worldwide popularity. And it has. These all-purpose pumpers from many manufacturers could be found throughout Interschutz. Rescue pumpers with smaller pumps, more compartments and equipment, Class A foam, light towers and generators, preplanned equipment mounting — as well as a short wheelbase, four-door commercial chassis — are now a world standard. A new prediction: a commercial, low-priced, U.S.-built, four-door chassis will be coming in future years.

Rescue vehicles: Heavy- and light-rescue apparatus continue to increase in number throughout the world. There seems to be no limit in the size and scope of services provided. Similar to what’s available in the U.S., several tandem-axle units were displayed. Rosenbauer’s rescue unit featured removable railroad wheels for tunnel use. A unique European mid-mount, hydraulic winch system is standard on many vehicles. The use of MB Sprinter-type chassis is growing; this chassis is well-suited for light-rescue and command applications. pod-type, decontamination, command and equipment-storage units continue to be found mainly in Europe.

Wildland: Without exception, the Morita (Japan) wildland vehicle was the most futuristic vehicle at Interschutz. The unit featured an Iveco single-tire 4 x 4 chassis; however, it was customized to the point where one could not identify its origin. Dual monitors — mid-ship mounted on each side — a 360° camera system, electronic pump panels, CAFS and a rear-mounted pump, were only a few of the unique components of this vehicle. Iveco Magirus, Ziegler and Rosenbauer also had several super-short wheelbase, 4 x 4 crew cab chassis with compact body designs that are extremely functional and well-suited for North American applications.

Ambulances: The popularity of the MB Sprinter and Ford UK Transit chassis continue to grow in Europe. Recessed hand railings, high back seats, multi-point restraints and advanced interior lighting systems were featured. Operating-room-type advanced life support vehicles were common; these units had full-width rear opening doors, power-operated stretcher-loading systems and unique interior layouts. No doubt, more of these units will be seen in the U.S. in the future.

Cabs: Mercedes, Scania and Volvo all showcased four-door, low-entry, wide-windshield cabs that have very spacious crew areas. The crew cabs are either integral with the forward cab, retrofit installations, or built into the apparatus body. Multiple yellow hand railings, multi-tier low-entry steps, four- to eight-crew seating, and mechanically latched SCBA systems are common on most units.

Compartmental equipment mounts: The most significant impact on North America fire apparatus in the last 25 years has been the implementation of Euro-style shelving, slide trays and various methods of equipment mounting. U.S. fire-apparatus manufacturers struggle with compartment equipment mounting, because few apparatus are fully equipped when purchased. In addition, U.S. inventory control and labeling, equipment layout engineering, shelving, containers, swing-out or slide-out trays, and tool boards are a long way from meeting world standards.

Pumps: Slowly but surely, the North American fire industry is moving to pedestal-type, PTO and rear-mounted fire pumps—which together reflect the vast majority of world fire-pump applications — with stainless-steel plumbing. The death of the cast-iron, mid-ship fire apparatus pump, with galvanized piping, that traditionally is used in the U.S. is now in motion. European-style pumps decrease weight, are usually multi-stage and take less mounting area, and most installations have integrated foam systems. A compact pump used by Polish fire-apparatus manufacturers was on display. Meanwhile, U.S. pump manufacturers Hale, Darley and Waterous all displayed impressive European-style and pedestal pumps.

Pump panels: Multiplex and electronic pump panels are now common with all European manufacturers. Push button and integrated multi-function panels have become standard. Diagrammatic, color-coded, flow-indicating pump panels and pressure governors will continue to grow in North America. Figure 1 shows a good example of compactness and simple design from a Polish manufacturer. Visit www.wawrzazek.eu for more information.

High- and ultra-high-pressure firefighting units: Regarding wildland and off-road firefighting, there has been a large increase in the use of high-pressure fire pumps (1,000/1,500 psi) and ATV vehicles. High-pressure pumps dominate most European wildland vehicles. For wildland and brush applications, high pressure is ideal when combined with Class A foam. A prediction: high-pressure pumps will replace low-pressure pumps (less than 1,000 psi) over the next few years in the U.S. Ultra-high pressure (more than 4,000 psi) and piercing units also were noticeable; their use will increase for aircraft, military, industrial and municipal applications. Meanwhile, the growth of ATV vehicles has been amazing. Given their high pressure and foam capabilities, coupled with the limited availability of water in wildland and off-road areas, these units can go places that no 4 x 4 truck vehicle can go.

Highway safety: More innovative ideas in highway safety equipment emerge from each Interschutz. This year, traffic-control devices, larger arrows, and LED cones and devices seemed to be everywhere throughout the conference. In just a few years, rear chevron striping became a worldwide standard. Lighted handrails, triangles inside cab doors and safety vests in pouches under each cab seat were noted on several apparatus.

Apparatus safety equipment: Almost every apparatus was equipped with a fold-out access ladder to the top of the vehicle; however, the trend is to remove equipment and people from the top of apparatus. Swing-up, hosebed safety railings appeared again this year. Meanwhile, perimeter-mounted, side-body scene lighting is standard on European emergency vehicles (but not so in the NFPA standards).

Electrical: Notable was the introduction of portable 10 to 15 kW generators that are installed on swing-out trays for on- or-off truck use. These very quiet and compact units will find their way to the U.S. very soon. In addition, the electrical panels viewed on apparatus are well-designed and very functional. Electrical outlets usually are installed at breaker panels with the instrumentation (like a pump panel).

Portable carts: The rapid movement of vital support at the fire scene is being facilitated with the use of portable wheeled carts. Constructed from aluminum, the carts are available in various shapes and sizes depending on equipment carried. This is another example of innovation that rarely is seen in the U.S. fire service.

Personnel clean-up: Long overdue for the U.S. fire service is personnel cleanup on each apparatus, with disinfecting hand soap, towels and running water. This is a good item to include when drafting the specifications for your next apparatus purchase.

Turnout gear: Several years ago, turnout clothing was totally different in Europe; today we see coats and pants similar to North America technology. For instance, the use of reflective lettering and striping on gear has increased on an international scale. In contrast, European helmets for years have been leading-edge compared with helmets used in the U.S., with a wide variety of shapes, integrated shields, cameras, lighting and communications.

And Off

Hydraulic rescue tools: There seems to be an ongoing worldwide war in hydraulic rescue-tool equipment. The conference seemed to have so many manufacturers that it was hard to keep track of them all. Nevertheless, Holmatro again led the pack with its introduction of radio frequency identification (RFID) product identification and tracking devices. The company’s new online equipment management system, for example, gives departments an easy way to track their rescue tools. RFID is a proven technology that does not interfere with existing communication systems. Another prediction: RFID technology will spread to our entire industry.

Surveillance: Miniature helicopters, robots and drone surveillance aircraft were on display. Someday every fire and police department will have such units!

Electronics: Noteworthy at Interschutz this year was the emergence of FireCan, a system that governs the application of electronic components in fire apparatus. European vendors have adopted a common unified interface that enables the integration and interoperability of various components. Standardized connectors will ensure the plug-and-play interchangeability of components from different manufacturers. These components can be monitored via a uniform user interface. Such systems interoperability no doubt will spread throughout the world. FireCAN uses as a proven technology that was developed in the automotive industry.

On a worldwide basis, fire apparatus and equipment each decade becomes more alike, and this year’s Interschutz demonstrated that progress clearly is being made in terms of “internationalizing” the fire service.

Surely, Europe today leads in aerial devices, compartment equipment mounting, compact apparatus, high-pressure firefighting, electronics and pump-panel design. Meanwhile, the U.S. leads in nozzle, warning light and turnout gear technology, and in custom fire chassis. However, ARFF units are very similar due to international standards. Over the next 25 years we will see more harmonization within the fire service, across training, apparatus, equipment and communications.

Alan Saulsbury is president of Fire Apparatus Consulting Services, which specializes in professional consulting services for several fire apparatus and fire equipment manufacturers in North America. He also is a fourth-generation firefighter who has more than 50 years in the fire-service industry. Saulsbury served as a technical-committee chair, president and board member of FAMA; has been active with the NFPA 1901 committee; and chaired and developed NPFA 1911.

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