We are dedicated to making the lives of firefighters a little bit easier!
Fireman’s Friend Engineering, Inc. was established in 1994 to patent and develop a design for a direct-fill device. This was accomplished through the efforts of William Rucker (the inventor) and Dale Larson (the developer). Bill Rucker also invented the TOPMOUNT PUMPER. This design has since become the dominant design for pumpers.
The decision to proceed with this project was based on the enthusiastic reception from fire chiefs, particularly the reaction of Louis Baker, the then-chief instructor at the Tennessee Fire School. Mr. Baker said upon viewing the prototype valve for the first time that “this is something we have needed in the fire service for as long as I have been in the fire service, and that is over 50 years”.
Our decision to adopt the name Fireman’s Friend Engineering was based on our sincere belief that this design would prove to be a significant improvement over existing valves, making firefighting easier, safer, and more effective. This has proven to be the case, but of great significance is the fact that the valve, after 15 years of use in firefighting, has thus far proven to be maintenance-free and capable of safely delivering more water than any other fill device or system known to man. We consider it a privilege to be such a positive factor in improving the lives of some of the greatest public servants, the firefighters.
Fireman’s Friend Engineering Inc. was organized in 1994 for the purpose of patenting and developing a design of a direct fill device. This was accomplished through the efforts of William Rucker (the inventor) and Dale Larson (the developer). Bill Rucker also invented the TOPMOUNT PUMPER. This design has since become the dominant design for pumpers.
The decision to go forward with this project was based on the enthusiastic reception by fire chiefs and in particular by the reaction of Louis Baker the then chief instructor at the Tennessee Fire school. Mr. Baker said upon viewing the prototype valve for the first time “this is something we have needed in the fire service for as long as I have been in the Fire Service and that is over 50 years”.
Our decision to go with the name Fireman’s Friend Engineering was our sincere belief that this design would prove to be something that would make fire fighting easier, safer, and more effective than any valve previously available to firefighters. This has proven to be the case, but of great significance is the fact that the valve, after 15 years of use in fire fighting, has thus far proven to be maintenance free and capable of safely delivering more water than any other fill device or system known to man. We consider it a privilege to be such a positive factor in improving the life of some of the greatest public servants, the fire fighters.
The ability to face danger with resolve, protecting lives and property despite fear, ensuring safety and demonstrating unmatched valor in critical situations.
Upholding strong ethical standards by being truthful, transparent, and responsible in all actions, fostering trust within the community and the department.
Placing the needs of others above personal concerns, dedicating oneself to safeguarding the community, and consistently providing compassionate care during emergencies.
Working together efficiently, leveraging collective strengths and expertise, and supporting each other to achieve shared goals, ensuring safety and success in all operations.
All valves manufactured since our first year have been constructed utilizing heavy gauge stainless steel casting (316 s.s), EPDM rubber seals, high-grade stainless steel springs, shafts, and prevailing torque fasteners.
Filling tankers and large pumpers from various sources require valves that will operate effectively over a wide range of residual pressures. Hydrants and other filling sources can vary from 30 PSI or less to as much as 100 PSI or more.
By installing our HYDRODYNAMIC DUO© these pressure variations become easily manageable without sacrificing turnaround time or running the risk of over pressurizing a tank at the higher flow rates capable of being generated by “Hot” hydrants.
"This valve is something we have needed in the fire services for as long as I have been in the fire service and that's over 40 years!"
"Fire departments all over the country are experiencing the 'little valve that could.' It is so simple, but makes such a significant difference in fire service. The bottom line is, this valve enables the firemen to get water from the source to the fire faster and with less hazard "
“We are filling our 1250 gallon tanker a full minute faster with Fireman's Friend 4 inch valve, compared with the slow close valve installed on the tank. We plan to retrofit all of our tankers to Fireman’s Friend Valves."
"One person can fill the tank easily, open the hydrant, fill the tank and disconnect, that eliminates time and time is of the essence when you are fighting a fire."
"This is the best fill valve built today!"
"We save at least 30 seconds on every turn around!"
"This valve makes it quicker to fill the tank because you don't have to turn off another valve. You just kill the source of water at the water source and you immediately lose pressure on the intake or hose and can disconnect easily. This valve is freeze resistant, the entire tank must freeze first. The valve mounted in the tank, preventing hazards for the firemen. You also can adjust the valve without having to move any portion of the valve from the apparatus."
Thank you for visiting Fireman’s Friend Engineering, Inc. We look forward to speaking with you.