Many departments occasionally need specialized tools, equipment and clothing, but don’t have enough compartment space to carry them every day. One solution is to use a removable box that can be mounted on the apparatus quickly.

One example is when municipal engine companies are called to respond to major wildland fires as part of regional strike teams. Rather than laboriously unload some equipment to make room for wildland gear, firefighters simply lift a pre-packed box of small-diameter hose, hand tools, adapters and nozzles onto the rear step and attach it in place.

Another example might be when engine companies need specialized urban search and rescue equipment to handle natural disasters such as earthquakes, tornadoes and hurricanes. For those incidents, the boxes might contain hydraulic jacks, extra portable lights and protective clothing such as knee protectors and spare gloves.

The boxes usually are sized to sit in the center of the rear step to allow access to corner-mount steps. They may be custom designed or commercially available tool storage boxes intended for use in pick-up trucks. In either case, the boxes must have closed lids and be bolted or otherwise securely fastened in place.

Other boxes might be fastened inside the cab to carry personal gear, food and drinking water for extended operations. Boxes mounted in the cab must withstand 10G acceleration and should not be carried loose or fastened to thin sheet metal walls or floors.

When not needed, the boxes are stored in a cool, dry place in the station. Date-sensitive items such as batteries, food and water should be replaced as needed.