Löschfahrzeug

Löschfahrzeug is a fire service vehicle designed to transport firefighting personnel, equipment, and water to a fire scene and to support extinguishing operations. The term is used in German-speaking countries to denote a class of motorized fire engines that form the core of urban and rural firefighting fleets.

Standard configurations vary by country and mission profile. Tanklöschfahrzeug (TLF) carries a fixed water tank and a pump for direct water delivery to hoses. Tragkraftspritzenfahrzeug (TSF) relies on a portable fire pump and hoses when water must be drawn from external sources or when a large onboard tank is not required. Hilfeleistungslöschfahrzeug (HLF) combines a pump with extensive equipment for firefighting and technical rescue, while still providing a water supply. In larger brigades, specialized Löschfahrzeuge exist alongside ladder and rescue vehicles.

Equipment typically includes a fire pump, hoses and fittings, adjustable nozzles, foam system options, a water supply, ventilation tools, hydraulic rescue tools, breathing apparatus, lighting, and first aid supplies. Crew size is usually four to six firefighters, depending on national doctrine and vehicle type.

Operations involve rapidly establishing and maintaining a water supply, advancing lines to suppress flames, performing search and rescue, and supporting incident command. Löschfahrzeuge are used in urban and rural fires, industrial incidents, and natural hazard responses, and they often operate in conjunction with other fire service units, police, and medical responders. International terminology varies, but the core function remains delivering water, carrying equipment, and enabling extinguishment and rescue.