The Seminole County Fire Department has placed a new $1.7 million heavy rescue apparatus into service, strengthening the Florida agency’s ability to respond to complex technical rescue and hazardous materials incidents.
The new Squad 2 was welcomed during a traditional push-in ceremony at Fire Station 35 and represents the department’s fourth-generation heavy rescue unit. The apparatus carries thousands of pieces of specialized equipment and is designed to support emergency operations that go beyond standard fire suppression and EMS response.
“Squad 2 serves as the Seminole County Fire Department’s premier heavy rescue apparatus, providing specialized capabilities for incidents that go beyond traditional fire and EMS response,” said Chief Matt Kinley. “This one-of-a-kind, all-hazards response unit strengthens our ability to safely and effectively respond to the community’s most complex emergencies while ensuring our firefighters have the tools they need to protect lives.”
Vice Chairman Amy Lockhart of the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners said the investment improves readiness for high-risk emergencies. “Our residents count on us to be ready for any emergency, especially the most complex and challenging incidents,” Lockhart said. “This investment in Squad 2 ensures our firefighters have the specialized training, advanced equipment and resources needed to protect our community when every second counts.”
The unit is based at Fire Station 35 and staffed by members of the department’s Special Hazards & Operations Team, known as SHOT. Established in 1992, the team responds to technical rescue and hazardous materials incidents across Seminole County.
Squad 2 is equipped to respond to incidents including:
Officials said the apparatus will enhance rescue operations during serious crashes, structural collapses, hazardous chemical releases and other incidents that require highly specialized equipment and training.
The department’s first Squad 2 entered service in 1994. The new apparatus replaces the previous front-line unit, which will remain available as a reserve rescue vehicle. In 2025, Squad 2 responded to more than 1,000 incidents, according to the department.
