Fire trucks (or fire apparatus) are specialized emergency vehicles used by fire departments for firefighting and rescue operations. Common types include: pumper trucks carrying water and hoses with pumps to pressurize water flow, ladder trucks (aerials) with extending ladders for high-rise rescue and access, tanker trucks carrying large water supplies for areas without hydrants, rescue vehicles carrying specialized equipment for vehicle extrication and technical rescue, and hazardous materials units. Modern fire trucks carry extensive equipment beyond firefighting—medical supplies, rescue tools, ventilation fans, and communications gear. Fire apparatus are expensive (pumpers may cost $500,000-800,000, ladder trucks over $1 million) and represent significant capital investments typically replaced every 15-25 years. Municipalities maintain fleet replacement plans and reserve funds for these purchases. Fire truck specifications must match community risks—high-rise cities need aerial capability, rural areas need water tankers.