What is the most common type of pumper used in fire services?

The midship centrifugal pump is the most common type of pumper used in fire services due to its efficient design and operational capabilities. This type of pump is typically mounted closer to the center of the vehicle, allowing for improved weight distribution and stability during operation. Its centrifugal design provides the ability to deliver large volumes of water at varying pressures, which is essential for different firefighting scenarios.

Moreover, midship centrifugal pumps allow for easier access to components for maintenance and can often be operated at a high capacity, making them reliable in emergency situations where response time is crucial. Their configuration is advantageous for both structural firefighting and rural firefighting, where water supply needs might differ.

In contrast, other pump types like rear-mounted pumps have their own advantages, such as possibly offering better visibility to the operator, but they are less common overall in fire service applications compared to the versatility and design efficiency of midship centrifugal pumps. Portable pumps serve a different purpose, being more about mobility for specific situations rather than general pumper use, and vertical pumps are not typically used in standard fire apparatus due to their limited application in such environments.