Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Adds Specialized Brush Trucks to Strengthen Fire Response

Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) continues to strengthen its fleet with the addition of four new specialized brush fire trucks, often referred to as "Skeeter" units. County officials say the trucks will help HCFR tackle fast-moving brush fires more efficiently. In 2026 alone, HCFR has already responded to hundreds more brush fires compared to previous years, underscoring a growing demand for the specialized equipment and rapid response capabilities.

Built for Hillsborough's unique terrain

Brush fires in Hillsborough County present a distinct challenge during the dry winter months. County officials say the skeeter trucks are highly versatile, giving crews access to areas that traditional fire engines cannot reach. Designed for wooded and off-road conditions, these units will deliver water and firefighting power where it's needed most.

Faster response, greater containment

The four new trucks are equipped to tackle fires in their earliest stages, helping prevent them from growing out of control. This proactive approach is critical during Florida's dry season, when high temperatures and limited rainfall create ideal conditions for wildfires to ignite and spread rapidly.

By deploying these units early, firefighters can:

• Access remote fire zones faster and safer
• Contain brush fires while they are still small
• Reduce the risk of brush fires threatening homes and infrastructure

Part of a larger public safety investment

While the Skeeter trucks are designed to fight brush fires, HCFR also says they will be used for year-round purposes, including hurricane season. During the rainy season, the trucks will be used as part of Fire Rescue's Tactical Search and Rescue Team (TSAR). TSAR teams specialize in technical missions before, during, and after severe storms. HCFR says the trucks will help survey damage, clear debris, and aid in search and rescue operations.

The new brush trucks are just one piece of a broader investment in public safety across Hillsborough County. In recent years, the County has committed significant funding toward expanding fire stations, increasing staffing, and upgrading equipment to keep pace with rapid population growth.