Sutphen Corp. has delivered a SL 100 aerial ladder quint to Opelika Fire Department that will replace a 25-year old rear-mount aerial platform, which will be held in reserve.
Shane Boyd, Opelika’s chief, says the department went with a midmount straight stick quint for reasons of maneuverability.
“The truck has a very good center of gravity and its ease of movement is very good too,” Boyd said. “With this truck, we went to a staff of four, where we are using the vehicle for structure fires, high rescue and also high angle rope rescue.”
Boyd added that a low travel height was important to the department because their coverage area has a number of low bridges.
“We wanted to be able to take this truck anywhere in our district,” he said. “And lots of compartmentation for our equipment was important for both fire and rescue operations.”