What is the minimum fuel level that HFD apparatus shall not drop below?

The minimum fuel level that HFD apparatus shall not drop below is established at three-quarters of a tank. This guideline is crucial for ensuring that fire apparatus have the necessary fuel reserves to respond to emergencies without risk of running out of fuel. Maintaining a fuel level above three-quarters allows for effective operational readiness and ensures that the crew can conduct extended operations if needed. Additionally, this practice helps avoid potential delays in response times that could arise if an apparatus were to require refueling while en route to an emergency. Therefore, the emphasis on maintaining this level of fuel is tied to both safety and operational efficiency within the Houston Fire Department.