Lawrence County Fire Rescue Adds New Rapid Intervention Truck

Lawrence County Fire Rescue is placing a new Rapid Intervention Truck into service this week. The 4WD unit is equipped with a 12,000-pound winch, a Compressed Air Foam System capable of producing over 1,000 gallons of finished foam, hydraulic vehicle rescue tools, vehicle stabilization struts, rescue airbags, wood cribbing, chainsaws, demolition saws, forcible entry tools, hazardous materials equipment, gas monitors, a thermal imaging camera, SCBAs, fire extinguishers, water and rope rescue equipment, emergency medical gear, and a large complement of hand tools. The new apparatus replaces a 23-year-old rescue vehicle and was purchased through a local dealer in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee.

The truck will be a key part of the daytime staffing program launched in August 2025, which supplements volunteers during hours when availability is low. Currently, only four personnel staff two stations during the day to cover Lawrence County’s 617-square-mile area.

Rapid Intervention Vehicles (RIVs) are smaller and more versatile than full-size fire apparatus, allowing faster response times and cost-efficient operation. Lawrence County Fire Rescue operates two staffed RIVs daily, which respond to motor vehicle crashes, EMS calls, rope and water rescues, CO alarms, and other emergencies. Pumpers and tankers remain the primary units for fire responses.

Officials say the new unit will be instrumental in saving lives and protecting property. Lawrence County Fire Rescue thanked the County Commission, the community, and its members for helping make the acquisition possible.