The number of line-of-duty deaths involving apparatus took a tragic upturn during November and December 2005 when seven firefighters died. The incidents underscored the sobering fact that apparatus-related accidents are the second-most common cause of firefighter deaths in the United States today, right behind heart attacks.

Two of the seven firefighters died in separate incidents in Texas while operating water tankers. Another death resulted when a tanker accidentally jumped into gear while pumping in Kentucky. One occurred when a truck hit an apparatus in Alabama. Others happened in Louisiana, Mississippi and Georgia. The names, dates, and locations are a matter of public record now. The loss lingers for the families and friends of those who died.

For information about these and other line-of-duty deaths, go to the USFA Web site.