New ‘Quint’ Vehicle Adds Versatility To District’s Public Safety Operations
Aerial pumper #3632, the newest addition to the Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District's fleet, weighs nearly 25 tons and can pump as much water in a minute – 2,000 gallons – as used by the average American household every six days.
Known as a "Quint," or quintuple combination pumper, the vehicle's 75-foot high aerial ladder and 500-gallon on-board water tank give firefighters new versatility in providing effective fire suppression and rescue operations at a significantly lower operational cost than the conventional engine pumper it replaces.
"The Quint allows District personnel to deploy ground and aerial ladders for use in accessing a property and conducting rescue operations. The on-board tank provides an immediate, robust fire suppression capability while crews connect hoses to local hydrants or other water sources," Deputy Chief John Feit explains. "Given the size of the homes we protect within the District, the aerial ladder is a valuable tool that enhances our ability to save lives and protect property."
The term "Quint" refers to the five functions the vehicle provides: pump, water tank, fire hose, aerial device and ground ladders.
The Quint joined the District's fleet of engines, ladder trucks and ambulances in January 2008. It is housed at Station #2, 120 W. Algonquin Road, in Barrington Hills.
The District split the Quint's $600,000 purchase price 50/50 with the Village of Barrington through an intergovernmental agreement. It saved taxpayers an additional $50,000 by purchasing a "demonstration" vehicle from its manufacturer, Ocala, FL-based Emergency One, and modifying the Quint to meet its requirements.
Due to the vehicle's sheer size – it's more than 11 feet tall, nearly 8.5 feet wide and almost 37 feet long – the District encourages property owners to make sure that firefighters have clear access to a property when responding to an emergency call. Trees and other landscaping should be trimmed back accordingly. Feit says this has not been a problem thus far.
"The Fire Department offers a free, on-site safety evaluation for property owners to ensure our vehicles have enough clearance to respond in case of emergency," he adds. To schedule an evaluation, residents may contact the BCFPD at 847-304-3600.
The Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District, in coordination with the Barrington Fire Department, protects the lives and property of residents within the District by providing emergency fire and medical service. The 56 square mile district serves portions of Barrington Hills, South Barrington, Lake Barrington and Inverness; and unincorporated Cook, Lake and McHenry Counties.