At Rosenbauer America’s recent dealer meeting, Fire Apparatus & Emergency Equipment Editor in Chief Chris Mc Loone caught up with Randy James, Fire Department Coffee’s (FDC) Director of Brand Relations, to get a tour of FDC’s Rescue 1, a rig manufactured by Rosenbauer on an Avenger cab and chassis.
Rescue One is to cater to both first responders and communities affected by disasters. Jame stook to heart the needs of firefighters while developing this vehicle, creating a dynamic package that incorporates practical solutions to high-pressure situations. The design process involved pitching the concept to Rosenbauer and strategically integrating features based on the real-life experiences and challenges that firefighters face.
The vehicle houses commercial coffee brewers capable of producing large quantities of coffee. In addition, it contains refrigerating options to provide both cold and hot beverages. Another feature is the on-demand hot water heater integrated into the vehicle. With a 60-gallon storage tank, this system allows for the setup of portable showers. Cleanliness is paramount during disaster situations, and having the ability to help responders stay clean preserves both their dignity and morale. “It’s about providing the basic needs that can often be overlooked in emergency situations. Everybody deserves to feel human, even in the worst circumstances,” Randy explains.
In areas vulnerable to severe weather disruptions and power outages,, having reliable power sources is critical. Rescue One is equipped with a powerful PTO-driven generator that ensures electricity is available for all onboard equipment. “Powering necessities in the face of calamity is essential. We’ve built systems for situations when communities are out of power for days,” Randy reveals. The vehicle also features numerous outlets that are hot as long as the generator is running, enabling first responders to charge their devices and maintain communication even in the direst circumstances.
“This vehicle is a demonstration of how we can unite the passions of first responders with the needs of the communities they serve. We must keep evolving and finding innovative ways to adapt for the challenges we face,” he notes. As we look to the future of emergency response, Randy and Fire Department Coffee remain committed to instilling hope in the midst of disaster.
For more information, visit www.firedepartmentcoffee.com.
