What type of fuel is commonly used in fire apparatus?

The commonly used fuel in fire apparatus is diesel fuel due to several key reasons. Fire apparatus, such as engines and ladder trucks, require high power output and torque to transport heavy loads and operate various equipment. Diesel engines provide superior efficiency, durability, and fuel economy compared to gasoline engines, making them well-suited for the demanding conditions faced by firefighting vehicles.

Additionally, diesel fuel has a higher energy density, which allows fire apparatus to operate for longer periods without refueling. This is crucial during emergency responses where reliability and endurance are paramount.

Gasoline and petrol are often used in smaller vehicles and equipment but do not offer the same performance benefits for larger fire apparatus. Natural gas, while being an alternative fuel option for some vehicles, is not as prevalent in traditional fire engines due to infrastructure and operational considerations. Thus, diesel fuel stands out as the preferred choice for fire apparatus in terms of performance and operational efficiency.