Tanker 41 - 1989 Autocar/Allegheny 1750 gpm/4300 gal.

Designed as a nurse tanker, this rig features six intakes, eight discharges and assorted length large diameter supply lines on both the front bumper & the rear of the hosebed. In 1997, it operated at the scene of the Sight & Sound Theater (the largest indoor Christian theater in the US) which was the costliest fire in Lancaster County history - at the height of the fire, it supplied FIVE apparatus including two engines and three aerial devices. It was replaced with a 2013 Pierce Velocity 2000/4000 tanker.

This rig has been an active participant in the annual Make-A-Wish  truck convoy. While the neighboring Lafayette Fire Co. holds the distinction of the being the first Lancaster County fire company to enter a fire truck in the convoy (since the early 1990’s which they still continue to participate in), Tanker 41 was the first fire truck to be in the top thirty fundraiser category. Driven by Firefighter Rick Nields, this rig has ranked in the 19th & 27th positions in the Top 30 fundraisers in the convoy.

This kitschy little sign is by far one of my favorite photos. Anyone I have shown it to has said it is one of the coolest things they have ever seen. I use this picture as a prime example of my philosophy that every picture is potentially a once in a lifetime opportunity. I originally photographed this sign while on an annual visit to the area - fast forward one year later and the sign (post & all) was gone!! In speaking with Hand-in-Hand’s members, they advised that the sign just disappeared one day & no one knows what happened to it. Presumably, it is hanging on the wall in somebody’s house (just for the record, it’s not on my wall!!).

Squad 41-1 - 2008 GMC 5500/KME

Featuring a walk-around rescue box, this rig is equipped for a variety of operations including confined space & water rescue, engine company support and firefighter rehab. Featuring a direct drive generator, light tower and telescoping lights, it is outfitted with portable air line reels and a manifold for confined space rescue.

Engine 41-1 -2000 Pierce Lance 2250 gpm/900 gal./CAFS

The first CAFS equipped engine in Lancaster County, it features one of the largest compressors at 1,750 CFM as well as an enclosed pump operator’s panel in the crew cab.

Squad 41-2 - 1990 International 4700/Road Rescue

Originally operated by the Media Fire Co. as one of twin ambulances, this rig was purchased in 1991. Considering the mint condition of this unit, it was decided to keep the existing yellow color scheme.

Special thanks to Firefighter Rick Nields & the members of Hand-In-Hand FC for their hospitality & assistance in positioning the rigs and providing background information on the company’s operations.

Lancaster County Station 41

Organized in 1910, the company serves East Lampeter & Upper Leacock Townships. Sixty volunteers (many of whom are from the Amish community) provide Fire & Rescue protection to Bird-In-Hand, a popular vacation spot as well as an Amish farming community.

Hand-In-Hand Fire Co. operates their entire fleet from this station with double drive-through bays.

Tanker 41 is set up to move “big water” - its’ 4,300 gallon tank can be discharged through pre-connected bumper mounted 50’ & 100‘ LDH supply lines, rear & side dump valves as well as pre-connected rear mounted LDH supply lines in 100, 130, 175 & 225 foot lengths.