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