SAN MARCOS FIRE DEPARTMENT
The San Marcos Fire Department has added a new specialized vehicle to its fleet, a dedicated blocker truck designed to protect first responders working at the scene of roadway emergencies.
When accidents happen on high-speed roadways like Interstate 35, emergency crews face one of the most dangerous environments in public safety. Traditionally, the department has sent two full-size fire vehicles to these incidents – one to manage the emergency and another to protect personnel from oncoming traffic. The new blocker truck replaces the second fire engine, allowing critical resources and staff to remain available for other emergencies.
The blocker truck is a repurposed, retired ladder truck outfitted with bright barricade striping, flashing directional lights, and electronic message boards to intuitively guide drivers away from emergency scenes.
Most importantly, it provides a physical barrier between distracted or speeding drivers and emergency personnel.
“Non-physical barriers like cones or flares only work when drivers are paying attention. This truck gives us something that can alert motorists early, absorb a collision if needed and save lives in the process,” Fire Chief Les Stephens said.
There are also significant financial benefits to using a purpose-built blocker truck. A new frontline fire engine can cost up to $1.25 million and take more than a year to replace. The blocker truck was acquired at minimal cost and modified for just over $100,000. Because it is not a critical frontline unit, its use does not compromise emergency response capabilities even if it’s damaged or totaled.
The San Marcos Fire Department hopes the truck will serve as a longterm solution for safer roadside operations while preserving vital emergency response resources for the community.
