| Water, a Fire Department's most precious resource. Ask any Firefighter experienced in Rural Fire Operations and they will tell you that getting sufficient water to the scene is critical in order to combat an inferno outside the city limits. Most attack engines carry some water, 1000 gallons on the average, enough for a quick knockdown of an evolving fire. TANKERS, however, are the lifeline of Rural Fire Suppression. Tankers can carry twice the volume of water as an Engine and are used to shuttle water from a hydrant, lake or stream to wherever it is needed. Most Water Tankers carry with them a portable folding tank made of tubular steel and canvas. These "Dump and Go" tanks enable the Tanker Driver to deliver precious water to the scene and immediately return for more. Large fires may involve numerous Tankers in a SHUTTLE operation and can maintain a constant supply of water to the Engines involved in suppression. Water Tankers are, without a doubt, a critical piece of apparatus in rural Fire protection districts. |