About Tempest | Innovators in Fire & Rescue Ventilation
Over four decades ago Tempest found its start in producing quality American made hot-air balloon inflators. Shortly after inception, we helped pioneer a new firefighting technique called positive pressure ventilation/attack or PPV/PPA. Our high-performance inflators were just what the fire industry was looking for to deploy this groundbreaking tactic.
PPV became well known for its success along with Tempest’s reputation for being the first and only manufacturer with the perfect tool for the job at hand. In 2018 Tempest became part of the Leader Group family and is now able to offer a much more extensive range of products.
An Expert in Our Market
With years of hands-on experience, Tempest has deep-rooted knowledge and expertise in the fire safety industry.
A Major Focus: Innovation
We continuously invest in research and development to stay ahead of emerging technologies.
Product Quality
Every product undergoes rigorous testing and quality control to ensure it meets the highest industry standards.
Customer Care
From pre-sales consultations to post-installation support, our dedicated team is always ready to provide expert guidance
Leading Fire & Rescue Equipment
Constant Innovation Is Crucial
To deal with the evolution of fire risks and rescue missions, fire equipment must continuously evolve and adapt to be more efficient while ensuring maximum safety of end users. To meet these challenges, Tempest, a manufacturer of fire, rescue equipment, and industrial equipment has resolutely turned towards innovation and new technologies by integrating its own Research and Development team.
Technologies and new products always developed with the end users in mind. Our equipment is continually evolving to keep up with technology and needs of our customers.
We employ these tools:
- Water and High expansion foam (4,300 ft²) test room
- Ventilation (4,300 ft²) test room
- Test areas to research search and rescue equipment for victims
- Box fire testing area
- Fire extinguishing equipment testing area
Why Choose Us
Guaranteed equipment
Each TEMPEST and LEADER product has a specific contractual guarantee.
Listening to customers
We seek feedback from our customers to continuously improve our work.
Expert guidance
We offer maintenance services, inspections, and customer training.
Certified ISO 9001 since 1999,
- We perform inspections throughout the manufacturing process as well as on finished products before shipment.
- We provides continuous training for all staff.
Proud Members Of:
Why Tempest Is Different
Quality & Reliability
Tempest has always been at the forefront of product innovation and evolution. However, a few things haven’t changed, and in our minds, they shouldn’t. Quality, reliable tools, and equipment made here, in the United States of America is a defining characteristic of the Tempest name. Every ventilator we build only uses materials provided by trusted local suppliers. We’ve spent decades perfecting the design and manufacturing of our products. It’s not uncommon to find Tempest brand ventilators built over 20 years ago still being used to this day. You’re not just buying a Tempest product, you’re investing in a tool that is built to last.
Service & Support
When you buy a product you also purchase the service and support provided by the company that manufactured it. This philosophy is the cornerstone of Tempest’s business. Every Tempest employee is committed to providing our customers with the absolute best in care and support – before, during, and after the sale. We only distribute through dealers chosen for their shared commitment in this unending pursuit, further ensuring our customers are always taken care of.
Our Industries
Tempest’s story began in the late 1980s, when founder Dexter Coffman designed high-output inflators for hot-air balloons. By listening to frontline firefighters, his team soon adapted that airflow technology to pioneer Positive Pressure Ventilation/Attack (PPV/PPA)—a breakthrough that still saves lives on today’s fireground. Now, as part of the Leader Group family, Tempest can deliver the industry’s broadest lineup of ventilation, rescue, and training solutions—giving first responders the power, visibility, and confidence to return home safely after every mission.
Frequently
Asked Questions
Find quick answers to the most common inquiries about fire extinguishers, alarms, installation, maintenance, and more. We're here to help you stay safe and informed.
Contact Us
Toll Free: (800) 346-2143
What makes your fire rescue saws different from standard construction saws?
Fire rescue saws are purpose-built for the fireground. Key differences include: • Engine and filtration designed for high-demand, high-debris environments • Specialty cobalt guide bars and chains or blades optimized for roofing materials, composites, metals, and other building components. • Large, glove-friendly controls and ergonomics designed for use with full PPE • Features that support fast starts, reliable operation, and safe handling in extreme conditions These details help firefighters cut quickly and safely during ventilation or forcible entry operations.
Which battery platforms are supported on your battery-powered fans?
We know that every department has their battery preferences, so our battery fan platform supports your favorite battery flavors. We worked directly with the battery manufacturers below to get the most power out of each platform for easy fleet integration. VS1.x MILWAUKEE® M18™ REDLITHIUM™ HIGH OUTPUT™ HD12.0 Batteries VS1.x DEWALT® FLEXVOLT® 20V/60V MAX* 12.0 Ah Batteries VS1.x HURST® Jaws of Life® E3™/EWXT™ 9Ah Batteries VS1.x Tempest Proprietary platforms BB16 Tempest Proprietary platforms
How do I find a local dealer or distributor?
You can locate a dealer by clicking on Find a Dealer on the bottom of this page, Dial through your region and find the best fit for your needs. You can connect directly with one of our dealers.
Who are your products designed for?
Our products are designed primarily for professional users: municipal fire departments, industrial and commercial facilities, emergency services, military, and specialized rescue teams. We also support dealers, OEMs, and apparatus builders who integrate our solutions into their vehicles and systems.