1. Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator Handbook 2nd Edition Chapter 5 Driving Aerial Apparatus 2. Learning Objective 1 Describe the driving regulations of the first apparatus driver/operator. 52 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 3. Governed by federal laws, state or provincial motor vehicle codes, city ordinances, NFPA standards, and departmental policies Subject to any statute, rule, regulation, or ordinance that governs any vehicle operator Driver/Operator Driving Regulations 53 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 4. Obey all traffic signals and rules when returning to quarters. Use courteous and professional driving style while driving in public. Most driving regulations pertain to dry, clear roads during daylight conditions. Driver/Operator Guidelines 54 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 5. Adjust speed to compensate for conditions that make normal emergency vehicle operation more hazardous. Stop emergency vehicles for school buses that are flashing signal lights. Driver/Operator Guidelines 55 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 6. Discuss starting and driving fire service apparatus. Learning Objective 2 56 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 7. Disconnect all ground shore lines. Turn on the vehicle battery or batteries. Guidelines for Starting the Vehicle (Continued) 57 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 8. (Manual shift transmission) Start engine with transmission in Neutral (N) and vehicles parking brake set. Turn on ignition switches. Press down on clutch pedal. Operate starter control. Guidelines for Starting the Vehicle (Continued) 58 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 9. (Automatic transmission) Start engine with transmission in Neutral (N) or Park (P) with parking brake set. Turn on ignition switches. Start apparatus engine using starter controls. Guidelines for Starting the Vehicle (Continued) 59 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 10. Make sure engine instruments move into normal operating ranges on gauges. Adjust seat first and then mirrors and steering column. Guidelines for Starting the Vehicle 510 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 11. Describe driving a manual transmission apparatus. Learning Objective 3 511 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 12. Depress service brake pedal with right foot and release parking brake. Place gear shifter into low gear. Release clutch slowly when starting from standstill. Driving Manual Transmission (Continued) 512 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 13. Keep in low gear until proper speed or rpms are reached for shifting. Keep transmission in low gear until apparatus is clear of station and driver/operator has an unobstructed view of street and traffic conditions. Driving Manual Transmission 513 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 14. Never attempt to start apparatus moving while it is in high gear. Abrupt operation of clutch may cause engine to stall. Avoid vehicle roll back before engaging clutch. When shifting gears, clutch should be fully disengaged. Operating the Clutch 514 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 15. Climbing a hill Entering intersections on sharp curves Turning corners Over rough and rugged train Starting down hill Using Lower Gears 515 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 16. Describe driving an automatic transmission apparatus. Learning Objective 4 516 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 17. Depress interlock on shifter and move it to appropriate gear selection. Pressure placed upon accelerator influences automatic shifting. Manually select particular gear when operating at slow speed or driving up or down a steep hill. Driving Automatic Transmission 517 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 18. Discuss nonemergency traveling in a fire apparatus. Learning Objective 5 518 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 19. Attempt to maintain engine rpm control through correct throttling. Accelerate vehicle gradually once apparatus is moving. Operate engine within its power curve. Guidelines for Traveling (Nonemergency) (Continued) 519 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 20. Do not try to reach rated speed in low gears. Avoid overthrottling which results in lugging the engine. Stay in highest gear that allows apparatus to keep up with traffic. Guidelines for Traveling (Nonemergency) (Continued) 520 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 21. Downshift standard transmissions to avoid stalls and prevent lugging. Ascending a steep grade Select progressively lower gears until apparatus can climb the hill easily. Guidelines for Traveling (Nonemergency) 521 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 22. Avoid allowing engine to overspeed. Choose a gear that allows engine to operate at 200 or 300 rpm lower than maximum recommended rpm. Maximum Engine RPM 522 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 23. Points of Potential Contact of Aerial Apparatus 523 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 24. Discuss stopping, idling, and shutting down the apparatus. Learning Objective 6 524 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 25. Perform smoothly so apparatus will come to an even stop. Before braking Consider weight Consider condition of brakes, tires, and road surface Stopping the Apparatus 525 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 26. Fitted on some apparatus Assist in braking Provide slowing action Save wear on service brake components Engine manages on hills and slippery roads easier Retarding Devices 526 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 27. DISCUSSION QUESTION Is it SOP in your department to shut down the engine rather than leave it idling for long periods of time? Why or why not? 527 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 28. Long idling periods If necessary to idle Set apparatus to idle at 900 to 1,100 rpm Engine Idling 528 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 29. Never deactivate engine while apparatus is in motion. Never deactivate immediately after a full load operation or when engine is overheated. Idle for 3 to 5 minutes before shutting down. Engine Shutdown 529 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 30. Immediate increase of engine temperature Oil film burning on hot surfaces Damage to heads and exhaust manifolds Possible damage to turbocharger Shutting Down Without Cooldown Period 530 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 31. Place transmission in Park (P) or Neutral (N). Set parking brake. Allow engine to idle and cool down. Shut off engine. Turn battery switch(es) off. Reconnect ground shore lines. Engine Shutdown Procedures 531 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 32. Start, idle, and shut down a fire service apparatus. Objective 7 is measured in Skill Sheet 5-1. Learning Objective 7 532 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 33. Drive a fire service apparatus. Objective 8 is measured in Skill Sheet 5-2. Learning Objective 8 533 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 34. Discuss braking and reaction times. Learning Objective 9 534 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 35. Identify factors that influence the driver/operators ability to stop the apparatus. Learning Objective 10 535 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 36. Braking and Reaction Times 536 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 37. Condition and slope of driving surface Speed of travel Weight of vehicle Type and condition of vehicles tires and braking system Factors Influencing Ability to Stop 537 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 38. Momentum (p) is the velocity (v) of the vehicle multiplied by its mass (m) p = vm As objects mass or velocity increases, it gains momentum and takes longer to slow down or to stop Forward Momentum 538 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 39. Discuss skids and the guidelines for controlling skids. Learning Objective 11 539 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 40. Driving too fast for road conditions Weight shifts of heavy apparatus Failing to anticipate obstacles Improper use of auxiliary braking devices Improper tire maintenance Common Causes of Skids 540 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 41. Minimizes chance of skid Works using digital technology Removes need to pump brake pedal Causes momentary delay (approximately 0.4 seconds) Antilock Braking System (ABS) 541 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 42. Release the brakes, allowing wheels to rotate freely. Turn steering wheel so front wheels face direction of skid. Standard transmission, do not engage clutch. Once skid is controllable, gradually apply power to wheels. Correcting Skids 542 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 43. May be gained at facilities having skid pads May be gained through use of new system that mounts to apparatus Should always be performed at slow speeds Skid Practice (Continued) 543 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 44. Skid Practice 544 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 45. Discuss the characteristics of auxiliary braking systems. Learning Objective 12 545 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 46. Front brake limiting valve Electromagnetic braking systems Automatic traction control Auxiliary Braking Systems 546 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 47. Describe weight transfer. Learning Objective 13 547 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 48. Law of inertia: objects in motion tend to remain in motion; objects at rest tend to remain at rest unless acted upon by an outside force Takes place whenever a vehicle undergoes a change in speed or direction Weight Transfer (Continued) 548 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 49. Can contribute to skidding or possible rollover Improperly baffled water tanks Driver/operator Use only as much steering as needed Steer smoothly and fluidly Maintain slow speed to prevent severe weight transfer Weight Transfer 549 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 50. Discuss the use of private vehicles. Learning Objective 14 550 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 51. Most states and province require private vehicles to pull to the right, stop, and remain at a standstill until emergency traffic has passed. Driver/operators must be aware that not everyone hears warning devices and many do not know how to plan an immediate reaction. Private Vehicles 551 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 52. Discuss collisions at intersections. Learning Objective 15 552 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 53. Most likely place for collisions involving emergency vehicles Driver/operators Slow down for intersections STOP when faced with a red light or stop sign Anticipate worst possible situation Collisions at Intersections (Continued) 553 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 54. No signals Red traffic signal or stop sign Driving into opposing lane of traffic Collisions at Intersections 554 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 55. Opposing Lane of Traffic 555 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 56. Identify safe passing procedures. Learning Objective 16 556 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 57. Always travel in innermost lane on multilane roads. Avoid passing vehicles on right sides. Be certain that opposing lanes of traffic are clear of oncoming traffic. Avoid passing other emergency vehicles. Passing Other Vehicles 557 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 58. Discuss driving in adverse weather. Learning Objective 17 558 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 59. Recognize dangers of rain, snow, ice, and mud Adjust speed Decrease speed gradually Slow down while approaching curves Keep off low or soft shoulders Driving in Adverse Weather (Continued) 559 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 60. Avoid sudden turns Recognize slippery areas Increase following distance dramatically Driving in Adverse Weather 560 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 61. Reduce stopping distance and considerably increase traction Consist of short lengths of chain on a rotating hub Hubs swing down into place Lose effectiveness in snow deeper than 3 to 6 inches (76 mm to 152 mm) Snow Tires or Chains 561 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 62. Describe warning devices and discuss clearing traffic. Learning Objective 18 562 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 63. DISCUSSION QUESTION What is the surest way to catch a drivers attention? 563 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 64. Civilian drivers respond better to sounds that frequently change pitch. Audible devices can be outrun by apparatus at speeds above 50 mph (80 km/h). Warning devices are of no value if not used. Warning Devices and Clearing Traffic (Continued) 564 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 65. Should be limited to true emergency response situations Turn off on limited-access highways and turnpikes Emergency vehicles responding on same route should travel at least 300 to 500 feet (90 m to 150 m) apart. Warning Devices and Clearing Traffic (Continued) 565 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 66. DISCUSSION QUESTION Why is it important for multiple emergency vehicles to maintain an appropriate distance from one another? 566 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 67. Headlights should be turned on while responding. May be advisable to turn off some warning lights on apparatus once in position Warning Devices and Clearing Traffic (Continued) 567 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 68. Warning Devices and Clearing Traffic 568 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 69. Identify traffic control devices. Learning Objective 19 569 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 70. Types of systems Not substitutes for using proper defensive driving techniques Traffic Control Devices 570 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 71. Types of Traffic Control Devices (Continued) 571 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 72. Types of Traffic Control Devices (Continued) 572 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 73. Types of Traffic Control Devices (Continued) 573 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 74. Discuss the tiller operator. Learning Objective 20 574 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 75. Must be qualified Must be familiar with duties assigned to all truck company personnel Driving assignments Tiller Operator 575 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 76. Distance of trailer from base of building involved Angle of trailer placement Proper overhead clearance Side and rear obstructions Grades and slopes of working area Factors Affecting Tiller Operators 576 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 77. Describe tiller operator training. Learning Objective 21 577 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 78. Use good signal practices. ALWAYS trail in-line on a straightaway. Bring trailer quickly into line after completion of turn. Observe trailer overhang on turns. Operator Training (Continued) 578 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 79. Operate tiller section in a smooth and safe manner. Avoid overtillering. Keep both hands on the wheel and give undivided attention to the job. Operator Training 579 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 80. Perform several checks before giving signal to proceed Center trailer in doorway when leaving Leaving the Fire Station 580 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 81. Keep trailer wheels parallel with frame of trailer and in direct line with tractor. When turning keep trailer in line with tractor as much as possible. Traveling Forward (Continued) 581 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 82. DISCUSSION QUESTION Where on the tiller steering wheel should the hands be placed when moving forward? 582 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 83. Traveling Forward 583 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 84. Be alert to conditions on other streets. Anticipate hazardous situations. Pay attention to trucks, buses, and other large vehicles. Keep outlook for any overhanging obstructions. Tiller Operator Driving Guidelines 584 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 85. Exercise caution and maintain a constant awareness of vehicles on each side and to rear of apparatus. Methods of negotiating turns Turning at Intersections 585 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 86. Requires opposite maneuvers of those used to steer front wheels Requires communication between driver and tiller operator Must be performed smoothly and slowly Pay attention to position of tractor as well as clearance on both sides and rear Backing Maneuvers (Continued) 586 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 87. DISCUSSION QUESTION Where on the tiller steering wheel should the hands be placed when backing? 587 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 88. Backing Maneuvers 588 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 89. Describe the driving exercises and evaluation methods of the driver/operator. Learning Objective 22 589 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 90. Driving regulations, laws, and fire department SOPs for emergency and nonemergency operations Pump operations and aerial ladder operations Hydraulic calculations Written Test Questions 590 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 91. NFPA Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) NFPA 1002 Practical Driving Exercise Sources 591 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 92. DISCUSSION QUESTION What practical driving exercises are used for testing in your jurisdiction? 592 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 93. Alley Dock 593 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 94. Apparatus Bay Parking Maneuver 594 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 95. Serpentine Course 595 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 96. Confined Space Turnaround 596 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 97. Diminishing Clearance 597 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 98. Straight-Line Drive 598 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 99. Lane Change 599 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 100. Straight-In Parking 5100 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 101. Crossover Backing 5101 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 102. Identify the minimum road tests necessary to certify the driver/operator. Learning Objective 23 5102 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 103. Road tests that lead to certification should include the applicable elements from NFPA 1002. Road Tests 5103 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 104. Perform various driving exercises. Objective 24 is measured in Skill Sheet 5-3. Learning Objective 24 5104 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 105. Perform various road test in an aerial apparatus. Objective 25 is measured in Skill Sheet 5-4. Learning Objective 25 5105 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 106. Summary Driver/operator candidates should be able to demonstrate good driving habits and competent performance, as well as a professional attitude. In addition, they must be familiar with state and provincial laws, local ordinances, and all departmental SOPs on emergency vehicle operation. (Continued) 5106 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 107. Driver/operator candidates must practice with their assigned apparatus under controlled conditions until the required level of skill is achieved. Summary 5107 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 108. Review Questions 1. What is the first step to starting an aerial apparatus? 2. What guidelines should be observed by a driver/operator while operating the clutch in a manual transmission vehicle? (Continued) 5108 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 109. Review Questions 3. Why do some fire agencies recommend using the automatic shifter? 4. What should be taken into consideration before braking? 5. What is the procedure for shutting down an aerial apparatus? (Continued) 5109 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 110. 6. How should a driver/operator react when an apparatus that is not equipped with an antilock braking system goes into a skid? 7. What is weight transfer? Review Questions 5110 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator 111. 8. Why should fire apparatus driver/operators not rely too heavily on warning devices? 9. Of what factors should tiller operators be particularly aware? 10. The written exam for aerial apparatus driver/operators may include questions pertaining to what areas? Review Questions 5111 Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator