Firefighters in Camden, New Jersey represented by the Camden Fire unions have written a letter to the city government detailing the deteriorating quality of fire equipment. The firefighters state that numerous trucks have mechanical issues and over half of the fire engines in the area do not pass a critical pump test. There is also a large backlog of repairs, due to a shortage of mechanics. The issues put the lives of firefighters and citizens at risk and firefighters were unable to put out a fire last week due to an issue with the water hose, and an individual inside the home died. The Camden city government responded to the letter from the Camden Fire unions stating that new trucks and equipment have been ordered, and the city government is also increasing hiring efforts for certified mechanics.
See "New Jersey firefighters call for new equipment after mechanical issues put lives in danger", Ryan Hughes, Casey Kuhn, CBS News, March 13, 2024