New 'Enforcer' Aerial Ladder Truck Added To Morristown Fire Department Fleet

MORRISTOWN, NJ — A brand-new ladder truck has been added to the Morristown Fire Department fleet, which officials say is able to handle rough terrain for even the most challenging assignments.

The Ascendant Heavy-Duty Tiller Aerial Ladder, which was made by Pierce Manufacturing, has a horizontal reach of 100 feet and reaches up to 107 feet vertically. At 71,800 pounds, the truck measures close to 60 feet long and is 11 feet, 2 inches tall.

The truck has been designated Ladder One, and it was delivered to the fire department and Resolute Hook & Ladder Company No. 1 in May.

Pierce Manufacturing said that the design of the apparatus allows for more maneuverability, while also keeping firefighter safety in mind. These vehicles are referred to as tractor-drawn aerials, tiller fire trucks, or hook-and-ladder trucks, the manufacturer's website added.

This "Enforcer" model has multiple compartments for firefighters' equipment, with power outlets inside to make sure all battery-operated tools can be charged and ready to go as well as an on-board generator.

This ladder truck is also designed to enhance roadway safety for the back driver, or tillerman, Pierce said earlier this year as they shared photos of the new Morristown Ladder One.

Firefighters, department leaders, and Morristown officials introduced the new ladder truck on social media earlier this week.

"Equipped with a self-stabilizing outrigger, it conquers tough terrain and ensures stability even in challenging conditions," Morristown officials said.

In November of 2021, Town Council authorized the issuance of $712,500 in bonds to finance part of the cost of the ladder truck, township records show.

Morristown's fire department consists of both career and volunteer firefighters, and is headquartered at 161 Speedwell Avenue.