Aerial Apparatus Operator Operating Emergency Vehicles.
Post on 15-Jan-2016
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Aerial Apparatus OperatorAerial Apparatus Operator
Operating Emergency Vehicles
Driving RegulationsDriving Regulations
• Drivers must observe
– State and Local laws
– Department Policy
• Drivers may be prosecuted if they fail to obey regulations
• Emergency vehicles are not exempt from traffic laws
AttitudeAttitude
• First element in learning to drive safely
• Driver must remain calm
• Driver cannot demand right-of-way
AttitudeAttitude
Accidents occurring enroute have many
consequences
Safety on ApparatusSafety on Apparatus
• Vehicle must be in safe condition
• Riders should be fully dressed before getting on
• Tailboard riding not allowed
• Avoid backing up
How is How is YOUR YOUR
driving?driving?
Basic Basic Concepts ofConcepts ofDefensive Defensive DrivingDriving
• Anticipate others reactions
• Visual lead time
• Braking and reaction time
• Combating skids
• Evasive tactics
• Knowledge of weight transfer
Basic Concepts of Defensive Basic Concepts of Defensive DrivingDriving
Anticipate Other Drivers Anticipate Other Drivers ReactionsReactions
• Know rules that govern public when emergency vehicles approach
• People may panic
• Drivers may not see or hear you
• Expect the unexpected
Control FactorsControl Factors
• Aim high in steering
• Get the big picture
• Keep your eyes moving
• Leave yourself an out
• Make sure others see and hear you
• Adjust speed to conditions
Visual Lead TimeVisual Lead Time
• Interacts directly with reaction time and stopping distance
• Driver responsible for 360 degree driving
Braking and Reaction TimeBraking and Reaction Time
• Speed affects stopping distance
• Reaction distance + braking distance = stopping distance
• Fire apparatus can take 310 feet to stop at 45 mph
Combating SkidsCombating Skids
• Avoid conditions that cause skids
• If vehicle goes into a skid practice good skid control
• Proper tire maintenance is crucial for skid prevention
Evasive TacticsEvasive Tactics• Anticipation is the key to defensive driving
• During an evasive maneuver
– leave hands on wheel
– do not lean or sway
– use your arms to steer
– look ahead
– braking is not generally indicated
Weight TransferWeight Transfer
• Objects in motion tend to stay in motion
• High weight on apparatus contributes to skids
• Centrifugal force tends to throw apparatus to outside of curves
Adverse WeatherAdverse Weather
• Rain or ice makes roads slippery
• Stopping distance 3-15 times more for wet or icy roads
• Adjust speed
Tiller OperatorTiller Operator• Must be qualified to operate aerial ladder
• Must be aware of
– trailer distance from building
– angle of trailer placement
– overhead clearance
– side and rear obstructions
– grades and slopes
Tiller Operator TrainingTiller Operator Training
• Good Signal Practice
• Trailing in-line
• Quickly bringing trailer into line as turn is completed
• Adequately observe overhangs
• Avoid rough and jerky movement
• Not over-tillering
• Keep both hands on wheel
Leaving the StationLeaving the Station
• Tiller operator should check
– trailer wheels for alignment
– readiness and safety of crew
– security of ladders
• Tiller operator should center trailer in doorway
Traveling ForwardTraveling Forward
• Trailer should be parallel with frame– in direct line with tractor
• Place one hand on top of wheel– trailer will move in direction hand
moves• Turn wheel only enough for clearance• Be alert to conditions
Turning at IntersectionsTurning at Intersections
• Be aware of vehicles around you
• Additional maneuvers may be necessary
• If necessary steer into adjacent lane
• Judge clearances
• Do not over-till
• Bring trailer in line quickly and smoothly
BackingBacking
• Requires opposite maneuvers of those used to steer front wheels
• Place one hand on bottom of wheel
– trailer moves in direction of hand
• Communicate with driver essential
• Station men on the ground
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