The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) has taken delivery of a new 2016 “Century” 50-ton Heavy Rescue which will replace our current 40-ton Heavy Rescue (HR56).  The LAFD Design, Purchase, and Fleet Maintenance Teams, once again, developed a state-of-the-art apparatus, which is commensurate with our status as a leader in the fire service.

This project involved over a year of preparation which included specification development, grant funding procedures and contract development.  The design team was present for all phases of apparatus construction including a final inspection with the manufacturer in Chattanooga, Tennessee. 

Some of the new features and enhancements on the 2016 Heavy Rescue include:

• Cummins ISX, 15 Liter, 550 horsepower motor with 18 speed Fuller transmission
• 50-ton lift capacity
• Two (2) Turret winches were added giving the operator four (4) cables to use for recovery operation and load stabilizing
• “Vista Glow” amber light package added to better illuminate the apparatus during night time operations
• All LED scene and work lights
• Extended boom reach, which allows for 6-8’ additional extension
• “Load Limit” sensor added to boom. This system alerts the operator as to load amount being picked up by the rotator boom which will help prevent overloading and create a safer operating parameters
• Back-up camera

The process for procuring the new Heavy Rescue was a cooperative effort between Supply and Maintenance (Fleet Maintenance Section, Equipment Engineering Unit and Purchasing Unit), the Grants Section and several field members.  Fire Chief Ralph M. Terrazas thanked everyone who diligently worked together to design, purchase and deliver our cutting edge LAFD Heavy Rescue apparatus. 

We are excited to say, the Heavy Rescue is anticipated to be placed into service this summer. This is another example of the LAFD's effort to replace and restore our resources so we can continue to provide exceptional service to the City of Los Angeles.