Fire command vehicle

A fire command vehicle, also called a fire chief car, battalion chief vehicle, or fly car, is a vehicle used by a senior officer of a fire department to respond to firefighting incidents.^{[1][2][3][4][5]} Its markings typically indicate the rank of the senior officer.^[6]

A Ford Excursion fire command vehicle used by the New York City Fire Department

In the 19th century, fire chief vehicles were horse-drawn, and known as a chief's buggy.^[7][8] With the advent and rise of the automobile, most fire departments retired their chief's buggies for automobiles with proper markings.^[9][10][11]

Mercedes-Benz G-Class fire command vehicle

In the United States, fire command vehicles are similar to police cars, and are equipped with emergency lighting and emergency vehicle equipment.^[12] Many fire departments use modified SUVs or pickup trucks as their command vehicles.^[13]

In the United Kingdom, the fire car is usually unmarked and personally owned by a station manager. The car has emergency lighting and equipment installed.

See also

• Fire engine
• Nontransporting EMS vehicle
• Glossary of firefighting