Most Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association (FAMA) member companies will provide receivers and anchors for rope and removable winches as optional features.

Basic guidelines for these features are provided in section 15.12 of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1901, Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus. While the guidelines are quite specific, there are several additional items to consider when specifying a rope or winch receiver on your next vehicle. The intent of this article is to identify these items and help you make a more informed decision on your next purchase.

Plan Ahead
Regardless of the type of apparatus you plan to purchase, the first and most important step is to plan ahead. Consider how it will be used, the number of firefighters that will be on board, and the equipment they will be using. When it comes to the specific features of the vehicle, proper planning is also essential. Identify and specify exactly what you need first; then do your homework and consider different manufacturers and what they offer. In many cases, their standard offerings will meet your requirements without modification. This saves everyone time and expense. If you have requirements that necessitate special designs, there is nothing wrong with specifying them. However, be aware that there are usually increased costs associated with custom requests. Read More.

This article originally appeared in Fire Apparatus & Emergency Equipment, August 2015.