The Phoenix Fire Department has ordered nine Pierce Quantum pumpers, with delivery scheduled for spring 2009. The Phoenix Fire Department is a new customer for Pierce Manufacturing.

The Phoenix Fire Department finalized the contract after conducting an extensive apparatus review. As part of this evaluation, the department “put a Pierce custom pumper and aerial platform through a rigorous evaluation to size-up ride quality, handling, braking and overall performance,” said John Simmons, acting division chief for fleet management, Phoenix Fire Department. “What also sold us on the Quantum chassis was its commanding ride height, low engine cover, spacious interior, quiet ride and air-actuated steps.”

Each of the Quantum pumpers features a 450-hp engine, six-speed automatic transmission, 340-amp alternator, 22-inch front bumper extension, 1,500-gpm pump, 500-gallon poly water tank, Husky 12 foam system, 40-gallon foam cell, Command Zone advanced electronics and a 15,000-BTU air-conditioning system.

The Phoenix Fire Department serves the fifth-largest city in the nation – encompassing more than 515 square miles and 1.47 million people. It is also one of the country’s busiest fire departments, with 53 fire stations and nine battalions. It has 58 engine companies, 14 ladder companies and 33 rescue companies (ambulances).