Lubbock Fire Rescue Repurposes Engine as First Blocker Truck

LUBBOCK, TX — Lubbock Fire Rescue announced the department has placed its first dedicated Blocker Truck into service.

The Blocker Truck is a retrofitted fire engine designed to increase protection for roadway emergency crews.

According to a press release from LFR, Blocker 17 was unveiled this week. Traditionally, fire engines are retired after 15 years of service, 10 years in frontline response, and five years in reserve.

Instead of being sent to auction, the engine has been outfitted with directional lighting, additional LED lights, and a lighted sign board to serve as a mobile barrier at emergency scenes.

This vehicle would normally be sent to auction after completing its 15-year service life with the department, but repurposing it as a blocker truck offers a cost-effective solution for taxpayers, says LFR.

Data from 2024 showed that Blocker 17 will be assigned to Fire Station 17.

Although operated by Lubbock Fire Rescue, Blocker 17 will also be available to help neighboring agencies, including:

• Lubbock Police Department
• UMC EMS
• Lubbock County Sheriff’s Office
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
• Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)