On June 3, Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer unveiled 10 new firefighting apparatus that will soon join the San Diego Fire-Rescue (SDFD) fleet.
At the SDFD Logistics Center, Faulconer joined City Councilmember Monica Montgomery, chair of the Council’s Public Safety and Livable Neighborhoods Committee, and Fire-Rescue Chief Colin Stowell to introduce eight fire engines and two brush engines that are currently being outfitted. Six of the engines will be deployed to fire stations across the City next week.
The new fire engines have a 1,500 gallon-per-minute pump, carry 500 gallons of water, and house 2,750 feet of fire hose. The brush engines have a 500-gallon-per-minute pump, carry 500 gallons of water, and house 1,650 feet of fire hose. In addition, a new helicopter will also be deployed later this summer.
“Fires are now a year-round threat in California so we must ensure we have the best equipment and the most highly trained firefighters to keep us safe,” Faulconer said. “The investments we’re making – from new engines to new and improved stations – will help our firefighters act quickly and effectively when our communities are at risk from wildfires. As we saw with the devastating fires across our state last year, you can never be too prepared.”
The 10 new engines bring the total new fire apparatus to be purchased and placed in service since 2017 to 33. They include: • 22 Fire Engines; • 6 Ladder Trucks; • 3 Brush Engines; • 1 Urban Search & Rescue apparatus; • 1 Hazmat Response apparatus.
Of the City’s 132 heavy fire fleet, 126 of the vehicles are made by the same company – Pierce Manufacturing Inc. Having vehicles with the same engine components, operating systems, replacement parts and equipment makes it quicker and safer for firefighters to operate them and for mechanics to complete repairs and maintenance. 
“We appreciate the Mayor and City Council’s continued commitment to making sure our department has the best equipment and training,” Stowell said. “Our firefighters are ready for this fire season and we encourage all San Diegans to do their part in being prepared as well.”
The City has recently opened new fire stations in five neighborhoods – City Heights, Little Italy, Mission Valley, Point Loma and Hillcrest – and renovated four others that serve the communities of La Jolla, Mira Mesa, North Park and Southcrest. A 10th fire station is currently under construction in University City.