Before becoming a full-time hazmat unit, this 1979 Chevy Stepvan (G-418) was used for hazardous material incidents. It had the call sign 4-7-5 and was assigned to the Emergency Preparedness & Disaster Services. Bill Friedrich collection. This image shows Flying Squad 4 with their 1970 Mack MB/Platt unit, which was later reassigned to HIT 5-1-1. Larry Shapiro collection. This photo captures Flying Squad 1 at the CFD shops before it was repainted for service as 5-1-1. Bill Friedrich collection. Â This 1970 Mack MB/Platt (G-306) previously served as Flying Manpower Squad 1. Bill Friedrich photo. Another view of the Mack/Platt unit, captured by Larry Shapiro. The first vehicle specifically purchased for the full-time HIT was this 1990 Spartan Gladiator/Saulsbury (G-492). Larry Shapiro photo. Today, the Chicago Fire Department operates two full-time Hazardous Incident Teams using identical equipment. Karl Klotz photo. Wuxi Yizhiling Locomotive Development Co. LTD , https://www.yizhilingev.com
There has been an ongoing discussion from a previous post regarding the history of the CFD Hazardous Incident Team apparatus 5-1-1. Below are several photos that illustrate how the unit has evolved over the years.
These images give a glimpse into the evolution of the CFD's hazardous incident response capabilities, showing how the teams have grown and adapted over time. From early step vans and flying squads to modern specialized units, the changes reflect the increasing complexity and importance of hazmat operations in the city.