Albuquerque Fire Rescue is adding a new tool to help battle off grid blazes right when they begin. The mini pump is a lightweight and portable unit that allows crews the ability to use any nearby water source to quickly start fighting the fire, rather than having to wait for another fire engine.
The unit can pump up to 80 gallons of pressurized water per minute. Firefighters tested the equipment with water directly from the Rio Grande, and it was a success. Six engines are now carrying the pumps onboard. AFR says they are already preparing for a challenging fire season ahead.