De-icing Fire Apparatus?

[x635 4,066]

Many of us have seen photos of fire apparatus encrusted in ice after a fire, or have heard stories about ladders not being able to retract due to ice, etc.

If you take a look at the photo below, they are de-icing an aircraft. I was wondering if there was a smaller version of the device that could be used at a fire scene, or if you could "special request" these units from the local airporrt?

Also, does anyone know what the chemical is and it's enviromental hazards that would prohibit it from being used "on the street".

[PCFD ENG58 1,085]

FDNY uses there thawing units [ steam ] to remove ice from apparatus.

[jack10562 414]

From what I have read, the primary aircraft de-icing chemical used is a heated monopropylene glycol. Ethylene glycol and other glycol-based mixtures are used but not so much in the US.

While classified non-toxic, excess monopropylene glycol is contained when applied, to keep it and it's negative effects from the environment.

There are two aircraft ice control techniques: de-icing (above) for removal of already-formed ice, and anti-icing, which aims to prevent ice formation in the first place.

I don't feel either of these could be effectively used on a fire apparatus operating at a scene.

Whoever develops a system designed to keep an aerial ladder from freezing or for quickly defrosting a frozen one, will become wealthy!

[Oswegowind 17]

Low voltage run along the ladder...like under floor heat mats for bathrooms/kitchens, would be pricy though, and add weight to the stick!