Unit 1 - members.wabash.netmembers.wabash.net/~lfender/ncfpd_web/FSVO/FSVO Powerpoint.pdfCoordination of left and right mirror usage ... Lane change/alley offset F ili i ti f hi l

Unit 1Unit 1

OrientationOrientation

Requirements for Fire ServiceRequirements for Fire ServiceRequirements for Fire Service Requirements for Fire Service Vehicle Operations CertificationVehicle Operations Certification

Basic Firefighter Certification Fire Service Vehicle Operator course Passage of State written examination Passage of State practical skills examinations

Unit 1

Instructor RequirementsInstructor Requirements

Instructor I Certification Fire Service Vehicle Operations certification

Unit 1

NFPA StandardsNFPA Standards

NFPA 1002 Standard for Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator NFPA 1002 Standard for Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Professional Qualifications, 1998 edition

NFPA 1451 Standard for Fire Service Vehicle Operations Training Program, 2002 edition

Unit 1

Unit 2Unit 2

Introduction to Fire ServiceIntroduction to Fire Service Vehicle Operationsp

Importance of Driver TrainingImportance of Driver Training

Unit 2


“The safe arrival of the apparatus at the scene of an emergencyat the scene of an emergency is the first priority.” - NFPA 1451

Unit 2

Goals of FSVO Training Program

To present:Cl t i i– Classroom training

– Competency course training– Testing for new & existing emergency drivers

To help prevent:– Crashes

Injuries– Injuries– Fatalities

Unit 2


25% of firefighters killed in the line of duty are responding to or returning from incidentsare responding to or returning from incidents

Drivers are being criminally charged when death or serious injury has occurreddeath or serious injury has occurred

Attempting to ensure all emergency vehicle drivers proper and professional performance

Unit 2

Elements of a Comprehensive Programg

Cl I t ti1) Classroom Instruction2) Competency Course

R d C t C3) Roadway Competency Course4) Testing

Unit 2

Elements of a Comprehensive Program (1)g ( )

Classroom Instruction:– Minimum of 8 hours– Test attitude and knowledge

U d t di f d i ibiliti d i– Understanding of drivers responsibilities during non emergency situations

Unit 2

Elements of a ComprehensiveElements of a Comprehensive Program (2)

Competency Course:– Introduction to vehicles– Identification of strengths and weakness of the

trainee and allow him or her to build confidencetrainee and allow him or her to build confidence– Course events and respective purposes

Non-Timed events Max speed 15mph Events can be accomplished individually

Unit 2

CompetencyCompetencyCompetency Competency Course ExercisesCourse Exercises

Straight lane pull down/back outO ti f hi l f d & Operation of vehicle forward & reverse

Correct mirror adjustment Confidence building

200’ approximately by 10’-8.5’

If bi d i h h i i i hi 6” f dIf combined with the stopping exercise you must stop within 6” of end cones without going through end and then back all the way out.

Unit 2


Confined space turn around Turning radius familiarization Turning radius familiarization Depth perception through mirrors

Unit 2


Loading/Alley dock Backing into confined spaces Backing into confined spaces Depth perception side clearances (Left & right entry

directions should be utilized)

Unit 2

You must stop your vehicle within 6” of the back end of the dock without going through.


SerpentineV hi l l ti f bilit Vehicle corner location for maneuverability

Turning radius familiarization Coordination of left and right mirror usage Confidence building of mirror usage

Unit 2


Lane change/alley offsetF ili i ti f hi l t ki Familiarization of vehicle tracking

Mirror familiarization

Unit 2


Parallel ParkingV hi l l t th t i t id l t Vehicle placement that requires exact side placement

Turing radius familiarization in confined spaces Location of vehicle corners

Unit 2


Diminishing Clearance Proper vehicle alignment Confidence building for travel in confining areas

Unit 2


Stopping Exercise– To familiarize the driver with the position of the front of

the vehicleTo require the driver to brake smoothly and precisely– To require the driver to brake smoothly and precisely while bringing the vehicle to a stop at a specified point

Unit 2

Elements of a ComprehensiveElements of a Comprehensive Program (3)

Roadway Competency Course:– Street and highway driving.

Minimum of eight supervised hours Conducted after completion of competence course Conducted after completion of competence course

Driving requirements– 4 left and right turns– Straight road driving of district area minimum of

2 miles– Controlled intersection travel

Unit 2

– Controlled intersection travel– Railroad crossing

Elements of a ComprehensiveElements of a Comprehensive Program

Driving requirements (cont.)N ti ti f l ft i ht– Negotiation of left or right curve

– Controlled access highway entrance– Upgrade for stopping/parkingUpgrade for stopping/parking– Downgrade for stopping/parking– Upgrade requiring gear change– Downgrade requiring gear change– Placarded bridge travel

Unit 2

El t f C h iElements of a Comprehensive Program (4)

Testing; 70% passage of written exam 100% passage of competence exercises per vehicle

being certified. (Authority having jurisdiction must document and test candidates in all vehicles in which they will be authorized to drive)

Unit 2

Unit 3Unit 3

Extent of the ProblemExtent of the Problem

EEEmergencyEmergencyResponse DrivingResponse Driving

Unit 3

Complexities of Emergency ResponseComplexities of Emergency Response

Misconception

…to rely solely on the fact that there are

Misconception

y ylaws governing emergency vehicle response and that this will insure a safe pemergency vehicle response.

Unit 3

Complexities of Emergency ResponseComplexities of Emergency Response

Misconception…the majority of the problems lie with the

general public’s failure to properly yield

Misconception

general public s failure to properly yield right of wayPublic is under a certain amount of obligation to bothPublic is under a certain amount of obligation to both understand & execute compliance with motor vehicle laws; it is not realistic or practical to expect the public to react properly each time

Unit 3

to react properly each time.

ComplexitiesComplexities of Emergencyof Emergency ResponseResponse

…emergency drivers have a mandated g yright of way.

Emergency vehicle drivers must be trained to understand that they must only request the right-of-way. It cannot be assumed or forced.

Unit 3

y

Impacts ofImpacts ofImpacts of Impacts of Vehicle CrashesVehicle Crashes

Personnel injury or death to emergency dresponders

Peripheral injury or death to others Vehicle and equipment loss

Unit 3

Impacts ofImpacts ofImpacts of Impacts of Vehicle CrashesVehicle Crashes

Long Term Impact Loss of experienced personnel Stress of criminal or civil litigation Financial impact Failure to deliver emergency services Poor public image

Unit 3

Contributing FactorsContributing Factors

53%

59%

53%

18%21% 21%

8% 8%12%

Unit 3

Source: VFIS

IntersectionIntersectionIntersection Intersection Crash DetailsCrash Details

T f R W i D i P t f R t d I id tType of Response Warning Devices Percent of Reported IncidentsEmergency Lights/Siren 68 %Emergency Lights Only 8 %Emergency Neither 2 %Emergency Neither 2 %Emergency Unknown 1 %

Return from Emergency Lights Only 1 %Return from Emergency Neither 2 %Return from Emergency Neither 2 %Training Neither 1 %Other Neither 5 %Unknown Unknown 12 %

Unit 3Source: VFIS

Unit 4Unit 4

Personnel SelectionPersonnel Selection

Driver SelectionDriver Selection

Attitude – an individuals disposition toward driving– ImmatureImmature

Only cares about his/her own safety– Brazen/show off

More concerned about image than reality– Laid-back

So much so that the reaction may be hours or days late– Comic

Doesn’t panic; sees humor in everything even dangerous Doesn t panic; sees humor in everything, even dangerous situations

Unit 4


Knowledge Clear perception of– Clear perception of Truth Fact Related series of issuesRelated series of issues

– Drivers understanding of Vehicle features Vehicle behavior Vehicle operational characteristics

– Drivers must not have wrong information or misconceptions regarding emergency vehicle driving

Unit 4


Mental Fitness – state of mind about driving– Does this individual understand & respect the

awesome responsibility of driving an emergency vehicle?vehicle?

– Is understanding reflected in Attentiveness during driving Caution while driving

Unit 4


Judgment - sound and reasonable decision makingg

– Ability to make good decisions Is individual decisive? Does the individual typically assume an offensive or

defensive posture?defensive posture?– Items to evaluate

Excitability – getting overly excited or agitate at either an emergency or when emergency lights or sirens are in use

Maturity – ability to keep emotions in check while driving

Unit 4


Physical Fitness – free of operational i i timpairments

– Has the individual returned too soon from a disability or injury?disability or injury?

– Has the individual’s physical fitness declined to the extent that his/her capability to recognize and react to situations is impaired?

Unit 4


AgePhysical and mental condition is reflected in chronological– Physical and mental condition is reflected in chronological age.

– Age and fitness need to be combined during evaluation of drivers.

– Factors to consider: At 18 there have only been two years of licensed driving. At 21 there usually is at max 3 years of emergency service

experience. At 65 there may be the beginning of vision loss. At 65 there may be the beginning of physical limitations.

Unit 4


HabitsCh t i ti d d b t t titi f– Characteristic produced by constant repetition of an action

Driving characteristics g– Manipulative skill abilities, which are necessary

to coordinate the steering, accelerating and/or braking functions of maneuvering an emergencybraking functions of maneuvering an emergency vehicle

Unit 4

Driver TrainingDriver Training

Specifications by agency as minimal tacceptance

– Driver’s license Knowledge & ability Knowledge & ability Grants privilege on public ways Endorsements

– State and local laws Established requirements

Unit 4

Driver TrainingDriver Training

– Defensive driving techniques Techniques learned over timeTechniques learned over time Successful completion of program introducing

concepts such as:– Space management

F ll i di t d t f l– Following distance and rate of closure– Hazard identification– Correct braking techniques

– Vehicle characteristics– Vehicle characteristics– Type of emergency vehicle– Vehicle components and features– Special driver training

Unit 4

Driver ProficiencyDriver Proficiency

Personnel development of training based on:Actual emergency vehicle driving experience both– Actual emergency vehicle driving experience, both emergency and non-emergency

– Observed proficiencies & supervisory reports as to performance in the fieldp

– Length of time since last training– Introduction to new emergency vehicles– Introduction to new technologies on existing vehiclesIntroduction to new technologies on existing vehicles

Unit 4

Driver ProficiencyDriver Proficiency

Vehicular threshold which can dictate re-trainingtraining

– Time– Low Activityy– Observed and document capacity or lack of– Introduction of new technologies or vehicles

Unit 4

Personnel FilesPersonnel Files

Training records– Classes successfully completed– Certification

Li i– Licensing

Unit 4

Personnel FilesPersonnel Files

Personnel recordsPhysical capability– Physical capability

– Driving record Check motor vehicle records before a person can ever begin

trainingg Check motor vehicle records on an on-going basis at least

once every three years Make a photocopy of each emergency vehicle driver’s license

and place it in the driver’s personnel file on a yearly basisand place it in the driver s personnel file on a yearly basis– Suspected drug and/or alcohol abuse

Unit 4

Unit 5Unit 5

Necessity of Written SOPsNecessity of Written SOPs and SOGs

Reasons for Adoption of SOP’s/SOG’sReasons for Adoption of SOP’s/SOG’s

Written and maintained All personnel understand what is expected or

requiredEligibility qualifications and certification requirements to– Eligibility qualifications and certification requirements to become an emergency vehicle driver

– Training schedule, expectations and requirements for emergency vehicle driversemergency vehicle drivers

– Annual requirements for maintaining certification– General conduct & obligations of drivers

Unit 5


Intended compliance with all necessary p yrequirements is identified

– Not a guarantee of complianceI di ti f i ti i t t t f ll li bl l– Indication of organizations intent to follow applicable laws.

– SOG examples Compliance with organizational rules & requirements Compliance with legal Jurisdictions Compliance with NFPA & other professional standards

Unit 5


Pre-planned and agreed upon actions Pre planned and agreed upon actions– Personnel and vehicles are variable at any

incident– Drivers should have standardized procedures for

response and arrival operations– Incident commanders should not have to worry y

about the actions of drivers

Unit 5


Resource documents upon which to base training

– Predetermined procedures and responsibilities ll th d i t t i & ti i dallow the drive to train & practice in accordance

with SOP/SOG: Prospective drivers can identify the training p y g

requirements necessary to qualify as an emergency vehicle driver

Unit 5


All emergency vehicle drivers can be informed and trained to identify which vehicle respond to various types of incidents

Existing emergency vehicle drivers can identify the Existing emergency vehicle drivers can identify the requirements for retaining certification to additional vehicles within the organization

Unit 5


Required anticipated actionsq p– It is easier & less stressful to brainstorm certain situations

and their solutions in a quiet setting.– Critical tasks of inspection & maintenance can be

scheduledscheduled– Pre-trip, response and post- trip responsibilities can be

identified and detailed– Inappropriate driving actions and/or conflicting actions pp p g g

which might lead to emergency vehicle accidents can be eliminated, or at least minimized

Unit 5

SOG Subject AreasSOG Subject Areas

Eligibility requirements for driversA i d f t d d f– Age, experience, and performance standards for new applicants

– Necessary steps to maintain emergency vehicle certification– Procedure to expanding an existing certification to other

vehicles– Re-certification procedures for existing drivers

Unit 5


Testing & proficiency requirements for d idrivers– Classroom training & written examination

Competency course training & testing– Competency course training & testing– On-the-road training & testing– Annual training and/or driving for certification– Annual training and/or driving for certification

maintenance

Unit 5


Emergency response proceduresE hi l t f i id t– Emergency vehicles response per type of incident

– Application of state traffic laws to emergency incident responsep

– Emergency incident scene operations– Off-road emergency vehicle operations

P i t & d i i t ti hi l– Private & administrative vehicle response

Unit 5


Customary and/or ordinary procedures– Vehicle inspection & maintenance procedures– Non-emergency travel

Hi h h d ti l d– High hazard operational procedures

Unit 5


Special situations– Inclement weather operations– Night operations

S i l l ti id ti– Special location considerations– Accident reaction & reporting procedures– Vehicle malfunction procedures– Vehicle malfunction procedures

Unit 5

Identify SOP’s & SOG’s Which Impact ResponseIdentify SOP’s & SOG’s Which Impact Response

Recommend local authority having j i di ti i ti t ittjurisdiction review any pertinent written SOP/SOG’s for complianceH l l l d l l i b d Have legal counsel and local governing body review policies prior to adoption

Unit 5


Unit 5

Unit 6Unit 6

Legal AspectsLegal Aspects

Overview of Legal AspectsOverview of Legal Aspects

Driving emergency response vehicles grants rights, privileges and responsibilities which are not g , p g pgiven to everyone

Emergency vehicle operators are expected to operate at a higher standard during responsesp g g p

– Permission to proceed through a red traffic signal or stop sign

– Ability to exceed the posted speed limitRi ht t t l i t th l fl f t ffi– Right to travel against the normal flow of traffic

Unit 6

Overview of Legal AspectsOverview of Legal Aspects

Training is imperative due to the changing legal climateclimate

5 regulatory agencies impacting driving– Illinois motor vehicle & traffic laws– National recognized standards– OSHA & IDOL regulations

Local ordinances– Local ordinances– Organizational policies, procedures, & guidelines

Unit 6

ChangingChangingChangingChangingLegal ClimateLegal Climate

Outdated concepts:C t f bli ki d– Concept of public kindness

– Sovereign immunity “King can do no wrong” Current concepts: Current concepts:

– “The Royal Family shall do no wrong.”– Lawsuits impacting emergency response are

increasing.

Unit 6

ChangingChangingChangingChangingLegal ClimateLegal Climate

– Lawsuits tend to include any & all parties involvedO i ti h l Organization as a whole

Emergency vehicle operator Officer of the vehicle Chief executive of the organization

Unit 6

LegalLegal Principles and Terms

Subject to laws unless specific exemption existsexists

Exemptions apply only to true emergencies Emergency vehicle drivers can be found Emergency vehicle drivers can be found

criminally and/or civilly liable if they are operating under the provisions of the exemption

Unit 6

LegalLegalLegal Legal Principles and TermsPrinciples and Terms

True Emergency– A situation in which there is high probability of death or serious g p y

injury to an individual. Due Regard

– A reasonably careful person performing similar duties and under i il i t ld t i thsimilar circumstances would act in the same manner.

Negligence– The legal deficiency or wrong which results whenever a person

fails to exercise that degree of care which a prudent person wouldfails to exercise that degree of care which a prudent person would exercise under similar circumstances. The negligence may be slight, ordinary, or gross.

Unit 6

LegalLegalLegal Legal Principles and TermsPrinciples and Terms

Gross Negligence– The reckless disregard of the consequences of an act toThe reckless disregard of the consequences of an act to

another person. It occurs when a person’s actions (or lack of) result in the failure to exercise even a slight degree of care.

Willful and Wanton Willful and Wanton– Intentional or with careful indifference; considered the most

serious form of negligence Vicarious Liability Vicarious Liability

– The legal liability placed on one person for the acts committed by another.

Unit 6

Considerations for LiabilityConsiderations for Liability

Was the vehicle responding to a true emergency?emergency?

Was the operator exercising due regard for Was the operator exercising due regard for the safety of others?

Unit 6

ImportanceImportanceImportance Importance of Driver Trainingof Driver Training

Unit 6

Illinois EmergencyIllinois EmergencyIllinois Emergency Illinois Emergency Vehicle Driving LawsVehicle Driving Laws

CDL requirementsE ti t d t hi l d i Exemptions granted to emergency vehicle drivers

Requirements for members of the public Requirements for emergency responders in Requirements for emergency responders in

privately owned vehicles (POVs) when responding to an emergency

Unit 6

EmergencyEmergencyEmergency Emergency Vehicle Driving LawsVehicle Driving Laws

Illinois Vehicle Code Illinois Vehicle Code

– Illinois Compiled Statutes, Transportation Section,Illinois Compiled Statutes, Transportation Section, Chapter 625 - Vehicles

http://www ilga gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3 asp?ChapterID=49&ActID=1815http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ChapterID 49&ActID 1815

Unit 6


625ILCS5/11-205 = Public officers & employees to obey act -E tiExemptions:

– Park or stand, irrespective of the provisions of this Chapter– Proceed past a red or stop signal or stop sign, but only after

l i d b i d d f fslowing down as may be required and necessary for safe operation

– Exceed the maximum speed limits so long as he does not endanger life or propertyendanger life or property

– Disregard regulations governing direction of movement or turning in specified directions

Unit 6


625ILCS5/11-1421- Conditions for operating b l d hi lambulances and rescue vehicles:

– ConditionsLights & siren requirements– Lights & siren requirements

– Lights & siren operations– Speed restrictions– Speed restrictions– Registration display

Unit 6


Apply only during emergency response using audible or visual signalsaudible or visual signals.

Does not relieve the driver from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of alldrive with due regard for the safety of all persons.

Does not relieve the driver of the consequences of his reckless disregard for the safety of others.

Unit 6


625 ILCS 5/12-215 Oscillating, rotating or flashing lights on motor vehicleslights on motor vehicles

a) The use of red or white oscillating, rotating or flashing lights, whether lighted or unlighted, is prohibitedg , g g , p

b) The use of amber oscillating, rotating or flashing lights, whether lighted or unlighted, is prohibited

c) The use of blue oscillating, rotating or flashing lights, whether lighted or unlighted, is prohibited except on:

Unit 6


A firefighter’s POVLights are not to be lighted except when responding to a– Lights are not to be lighted except when responding to a bona fide emergency or when parked or stationary at the scene of a fire, rescue call, ambulance call or MVA.

– Must carry on your person, an identification card or letter y y p ,with the following: Name of the fire department Member’s position within the fire department Member’s term of service Member s term of service Name of a person within the fire department to contact to verify the

information provided– In addition to the blue oscillating, rotating or flashing lights

Unit 6

Flashing white headlights and blue grill lights

Other EmergencyOther EmergencyOther Emergency Other Emergency Vehicle Driving LawsVehicle Driving Laws

NFPA 1451 & 1002 Local municipal ordinances Organizational SOP’s/SOG’s

Unit 6

Unit 7Unit 7

Vehicle DynamicsVehicle Dynamics

Physical ForcesPhysical Forces

Friction is resistance to motion between two i bj t th t t hmoving objects that touch

– Tire/RoadBrake– Brake

– Steering– Total weight distribution fully loaded with– Total weight distribution fully loaded with

equipment & personnel vs. empty

Unit 7


Velocity is speed– Acceleration (velocity increase)– Deceleration (velocity decrease)

B ki ( l it d )– Braking (velocity decrease)

Unit 7


Directional control is a derivative of :– Steering– Turning

T ki– Tracking

Unit 7


Momentum (p)– Is measured as the product of the object’s mass

or weight (m) times its velocity (v).

p = (m)(v)

Unit 7


Inertia– The force it takes for a moving object to stay in

motion in the same direction. Centrifugal force Centrifugal force

– The force, caused by inertia, which tends to make a rotating body move away from the center of g y yrotation.

Unit 7

Safe Driving SkillsSafe Driving Skills

Jurisdictional authority shall have written li i di d d li it tipolicies regarding speed and limitations

during weather and various road & traffic conditionsconditions

Restrictions cannot be less than state motor vehicle lawsvehicle laws

Unit 7


Complete stop required at:– Controlled intersections– Blind intersections

I t ti h ll l t i ibl t– Intersections where all lanes are not visible to driver

– A stopped school bus with flashers operationalpp p

Unit 7


Responding emergency vehicles shall stop at all unguarded railroad crossings to ensure that a safeunguarded railroad crossings to ensure that a safe crossing can be made

– The driver shall obey all railroad crossing signals even when responding to emergencieswhen responding to emergencies

– Fire apparatus shall not be driven around railroad crossing gates

The driver/operator shall maintain a distance in front The driver/operator shall maintain a distance in front of the vehicle that is at least equal to the minimum travel distance necessary to stop the vehicle without contacting another object

Unit 7

contacting another object


Fire department vehicles and apparatus f ll i h th h ll i t ifollowing each other shall maintain an adequate distance to avoid rear-end collisionscollisions

Overtaking and passing other vehicles during emergency response shall be accomplishedemergency response shall be accomplished with extreme caution

Unit 7


While en-route to move-ups or to fill an empty station apparatus shall be operated inempty station, apparatus shall be operated in a non-emergency mode, and the driver/operator shall obey all traffic lawsp y

The fire department shall identify the types of responses that will be made in a non-

demergency mode.

Unit 7

VehicleVehicleVehicle Vehicle CharacteristicsCharacteristics


Total weight and weight distribution– Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)– Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or (GCWR)

W i ht Di t ib ti h i t l d ti l– Weight Distribution – horizontal and vertical centers of gravity

Unit 7


Axles / SpringsN t t d f th l d– Not rated for the load

– Broken / Bent Wheels and Tires Wheels and Tires

– Low pressureWorn tread

Unit 7

– Worn tread– Unbalanced


Braking Systems– Engine brake (Jake)– Automatic Transmission Anti-lock Braking

Systems (ABS)Systems (ABS)– Secondary or auxiliary– Retarder– Driveline retarder

Unit 7


National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) R tReport– Engine Retarders

Limiting Valves– Limiting Valves– Baffling Systems

Unit 7


Engine retarders“S f th fi t i d ith i– “Some of the newer fire apparatus are equipped with engine retarders and these vehicles have operating characteristics that are similar to those of heavy commercial trucks. The use of engine retarders on wet pavement can lead to loss ofuse of engine retarders on wet pavement can lead to loss of control. “ Edited expert from National Transportation Safety Board

Special Investigate Report (NFSB/SIR – 91/01) 3/19/91Special Investigate Report (NFSB/SIR 91/01) 3/19/91

Unit 7


Limiting valves“Some older vehicles made before 1975 have a front brake– Some older vehicles made before 1975 have a front brake limiting valve which essentially reduces normal air pressure to the front brakes by about one half when activated (slippery). Marked ‘normal’ and ‘slippery’ the valves were used to reduce the change of front wheels skidding on slippery surfaces. Extensive testing has shown that the front wheel skids are not likely even on ice. The use of a limiting valve degrades braking performances and thelimiting valve degrades braking performances and the NTSB recommends that their use on fire apparatus should be discontinued.”

– Edited expert from National Transportation Safety Board Special Investigate Report (NFSB/SIR 91/01) 3/19/91

Unit 7

Investigate Report (NFSB/SIR – 91/01) 3/19/91


– Baffling systems“Th h i l f f t d i ti ll “The physical forces of momentum and inertia cause all vehicle weight to shift whenever the driver accelerates, brakes, or turns the vehicle. If the vehicle is carrying water especially large amounts the shift of weightwater, especially large amounts, the shift of weight becomes a dynamic movement. The fluidity of the water with subsequent shifting can result in the loss of vehicle control. In order to avoid undue weigh transfers, NFPAcontrol. In order to avoid undue weigh transfers, NFPA has included specific requirements in their standards of that water tanks are baffled to limit the amount of dynamic weight transfer.

Unit 7

y g


– Baffling systems cont.While most vehicles comply with the standardWhile most vehicles comply with the standard,

care must be exercised when using older vehicles that have been converted from other uses (gas oil or milk tankers) Emergencyuses (gas, oil, or milk tankers). Emergency vehicles with large water tanks are most susceptible to accidents as a result of the driver losing control This is especially true indriver losing control. This is especially true in vehicles which may not have the appropriate baffling in the converted water tanks.”

Edit d t f N ti l T t ti S f t B d

Unit 7

Edited expert from National Transportation Safety Board Special Investigate Report (NFSB/SIR – 91/01) 3/19/91

Unit 8Unit 8

Vehicle Inspections andVehicle Inspections and Maintenance

Value & Importance of Regular Inspections &Value & Importance of Regular Inspections &Value & Importance of Regular Inspections & Value & Importance of Regular Inspections & DocumentationDocumentation

Safe operations1 i 12 (8%) h d t hi l lf ti– 1 in 12 (8%) crashes due to vehicle malfunction or lack of maintenance.

Achievement of vehicle life expectancyp y Inspection & proper written documentation

according to the authority having j i di i ’ SOP/SOG’jurisdiction’s SOP/SOG’s

Unit 8

EmergencyEmergencyEmergency Emergency Vehicle ComponentsVehicle Components

Chassis– Frame– Suspension system

St i & b ki t– Steering & braking system– Power train

Body Body

Unit 8


Primary function components – Pump– Aerial

A b l ti t t t– Ambulance patient compartment

Unit 8


Auxiliary systemsElectrical systems Generator– Electrical systems - Generator

– Hydraulic or pneumatic tool systems– Communication systems

Emergency lighting & siren systems– Emergency lighting & siren systems– Breathing air or oxygen systems– Bio-waste disposal systems

Auxiliary pump systems– Auxiliary pump systems– Special extinguishing agent systems

Unit 8

Components of an Inspection Maintenance ProgramComponents of an Inspection Maintenance Program

Pre trip inspections Pre-trip inspections– Daily or weekly schedule recommended

Post-trip inspections– Clean vehicle– Replace supplies– Re-fuel vehicle– Check fluids– Report problems or malfunctions

Unit 8

Performing Pre and Post tripPerforming Pre- and Post-trip Inspections

Vehicle overview Check engine compartment Check engine compartment Start engine & check inside cab Check vehicle & emergency lighting & sireng y g g Conduct walk around inspection Check controls & indicators of special function

componentscomponents Check brake system

Unit 8

Various Classes of PreventativeVarious Classes of Preventative Maintenance

Routine Maintenance– Responsibility of driver– Fluid level checks

Wh l & ti– Wheels & tires– Electrical systems & devices

Unit 8


Scheduled maintenance– Manufacturer’s schedule– Use schedule

O i ti l li– Organizational policy– Professional standards

Unit 8


Crisis maintenance– Class “A” – Immediate

All items which require that the vehicle must be removed from service immediatelyy

– Safety– Incapacitating – Expandingp g

Unit 8


Crisis maintenance– Class “B”

As soon as possible Items which are important and require prompt attention; Items which are important and require prompt attention;

however, they do not require that the vehicle be immediately removed from service.

Unit 8


Crisis maintenance– Class “C”

Items which should be corrected, but can be addressed at the next regularly scheduled preventative g y pmaintenance

Unit 8

Importance of Preventative Maintenance (PMImportance of Preventative Maintenance (PM))

Safety Cost benefit Operational Effectiveness Legal liability Basis for purchase decisions

Unit 8

EmergencyEmergencyEmergencyEmergencyResponse DrivingResponse Driving

Unit 8

Your Role asYour Role asYour Role as Your Role as Emergency Vehicle DriverEmergency Vehicle Driver

Responsible for conducting routine vehicle i tiinspections

– Check listOrganizational authority– Organizational authority

– Training and equipment

Unit 8


Items for consideration– Battery or batteries

Correct fluid levels Connections tight/clean Connections tight/clean Battery box compartment clean & secure

Unit 8


Items for considerationB ki t– Braking system Pressure prior to starting engine (air) Build-up time, if appropriate (air) ABS verification (dash light) Braking operation (during run as well as at inspection

time) Brake pedal (hydraulic) Moisture in system/drain air tanks

Unit 8


Items for consideration– Coolant system

Correct level Hose and/or connections wears/leaks Hose and/or connections wears/leaks

– Electrical system All lights & audio devices operating Voltmeter reading

Unit 8


Items for considerationFuel– Fuel Correct level Check any power equipment levels, if applicable

– Hydraulic fluidsHydraulic fluids Number & location of check points for systems on vehicles Leaks (check floor under vehicle and areas around hose &

connections) Correct levels Cleanliness

Unit 8


Items for considerationL b i ti– Lubrication Leaks (check floor under vehicle) Grease thrown (engine compartment, undercarriage,

h l & ti )wheels, & tires)– Oil (Engine)

Leaks (check floor under vehicle) Correct level Cleanliness

Unit 8


Items for consideration– Tires

Condition (sidewalls, rims, tread, road hazards) Correct inflation pressure Correct inflation pressure

– Steering systems Ease of operation (power ok, no extra play) Correct level of fluid

Unit 8


Items for considerationB lt– Belts Tightness Appearance and feel (wear)

– Tools, appliance, and equipment Inventory on vehicle Critical equipment checked for operational integrity Power equipment starts easily and runs properly

Unit 8


Documents needed for maintenance Verifies maintenance completed

Unit 8

Record KeepingRecord Keeping

Maintenance Records– Inspections– Repairs

M lf ti– Malfunctions Training Records

O ti l R d Operational Records

Unit 8

Unit 9Unit 9

Emergency VehicleEmergency Vehicle Operations/Safetyp y

MotivationMotivation

FactorsI t l f– Internal forces Created by individual

– External forces Created by others

Physical– Everyone has a physical probability or susceptibility toEveryone has a physical probability or susceptibility to

experiencing a vehicle accident

Unit 9

MotivationMotivation

Mental (the rut)– RoutineRoutine– Comfort– Confidence

Goals of vehicle operatorsp– Safe operations– Prepare for unexpected– Avoid legal consequence

Unit 9

Preparing to DrivePreparing to Drive

Route Planning– Safety– Minimize response time

Mi i i i t ti l id t– Minimizing potential accidents– Allow operator to focus on driving tasks– Avoid hazards– Avoid hazards

Unit 9


Driver readiness– Fatigue– Health

P l bl– Personal problems

Unit 9


Effective Start-Up Procedures“Ci l f S f t ” I ti– “Circle of Safety” Inspection The driver should always circle the emergency vehicle

prior to starting and moving it for any reason. The driver has sufficient time to undertake this activity while otherhas sufficient time to undertake this activity while other crew members are donning their gear or obtaining additional accident information.

– Adjustment of cab features– Adjustment of cab features Seat Mirrors Other controls

Unit 9

Other controls


Effective Start-Up Procedures– Wearing of occupant restraints

Driver All other occupants All other occupants

– Receive signal before moving From officer From other member

– Understanding “right of way” cannot be assumed

Unit 9

Unit 9

Unit 9

Unit 9

Unit 9

Emergency Driving is a Complex ProcessEmergency Driving is a Complex Process

Defensive driving principles– Predicting the unpredictable– Expect the unexpected

H dli t d bl– Handling any unexpected problems

Unit 9


Defensive driving methods– IdentifyIdentify

Scan ahead See & detect occurrences

– Predict Possible future options

– Decide Appropriate course of action

– Execute Using approval techniques, execute necessary maneuvers

within the time frame allowed

Unit 9


Five visual habitsAim high in steering– Aim high in steering

– Get the big picture– Keep eyes moving, scan

Make sure the other drivers see the emergency vehicle– Make sure the other drivers see the emergency vehicle Emergency lights Siren Other devices Other devices

– Air horn– PA systems

– Identify an escape route

Unit 9

EEEmergencyEmergencyResponse DrivingResponse Driving

Unit 9


Space management– Following distance– Rate of closure

Bli d t– Blind spots – Traffic closure

Unit 9


Speed management Speed management– Emergency vehicles must not be driven in

excess of posted speed limits– Emergency vehicles must not exceed

cautionary speeds

Unit 9

E D i i i C lEmergency Driving is a Complex Process

Basic maneuversSt i– Steering Use both hands Keeps arms inside vehicle Maintain hands in “3” and “9” position

– Braking & stopping Hydraulic – pump brake pedaly p p p Air – firmly and steadily press brake pedal, release if

wheels lock ABS – apply firmly & hold down for duration

Unit 9

pp y y


Basic maneuvers– Backing

Park intelligently Give audible notice Give audible notice Use a spotter Understand signals

U id i Use side mirrors Check front corners Maintain speed control

Unit 9


Basic maneuversL h i– Lane changing Plan ahead Signal intention Practice speed management Make the change of lanes smoothly

– Turningg Always signal before turning Whenever possible, turn from one proper lane into

another proper lane

Unit 9

p p


Basic maneuvers– Passing

Check traffic both ahead & behind Check sides & double check blind spots Check sides & double check blind spots Signal before initiating pass Accelerate while changing lanes

Si l b f t i t th d i l Signal before returning to the drive lane Check mirror before returning to the driver lane Cancel directional signal and resume cruising speed

Unit 9


Basic maneuvers– Negotiating intersections

Scan for possible hazards Slow down Slow down Change siren cadence Check options and avoid apposing lanes

Unit 9


Adverse conditionsT ti i li ti– Traction implications Rain Snow & ice Leaves

– Handling implications– Vision implicationsVision implications

Night driving Precipitation Vehicle features

Unit 9

Vehicle features


Crash avoidance– Identify escape routes– Brake smooth & firm

S th l ti– Smooth acceleration– Steer to avoid head-on impact

Unit 9


Vehicle placement at emergency scene– Placement on street & highways– Positioning so as to minimize the blinding effect of

warning lightswarning lights– Identify potential hazards at scene– Identify safe distances from certain scenesy– Consideration for ease of leaving the scene

Unit 9

Unit 10Unit 10

AdministrativeAdministrative

Procedure for Reporting Unsafe ConditionsProcedure for Reporting Unsafe Conditions

Written SOP/SOG’s should be in place– Shall include locally developed systematic

apparatus maintenance programShall identify who perform maintenance– Shall identify who perform maintenance functions

– Shall include how problems are corrected and reported when detected

Unit 10

Procedure for Reporting Unsafe ConditionsProcedure for Reporting Unsafe Conditions

Written SOP/SOG’s should be in place– Shall include how the process is documented

Date & time problem or risk was discovered Includes brief description Includes brief description All actions taken Identify personnel that discrepancy was reported to

D t & ti ti ti t k Date & time corrective action was taken

Unit 10

Procedures for Crash InvestigationsProcedures for Crash Investigations

Management of the authority having j i di ti (AHJ) h ll b ibl fjurisdiction (AHJ) shall be responsible for developing & implementing a crash investigation procedureinvestigation procedure

Unit 10


– All crashes, injuries, fatalities along with all violations of rules, regulations, laws and orders involving fire servicerules, regulations, laws and orders involving fire service vehicles shall be investigated, the root causes shall be determined & full documentation shall be provided

– The AHJ shall take whatever corrective action isThe AHJ shall take whatever corrective action is necessary to avoid repetitive occurrences of all accidents and/or violations regardless of injury or fatality results

– The drivers training program shall include a review andThe drivers training program shall include a review and critique of crash scenarios, both local & national, to serve as an objective learning experience

Unit 10


Management of AHJ shall establish a data ll ti t & h ll i t icollection system & shall maintain

permanent records of all on-duty crashes & injuries involving fire service vehiclesinjuries involving fire service vehicles

A safety officer shall be appointed to manage the collection & analysis of themanage the collection & analysis of the data collection system

Unit 10


A safety committee should be appointed to i ti t ll id t i j i &investigate all accidents, injuries, & fatalitiesD t ll ti t h ll i t i Data collection system shall maintain individual employee records of all on duty crashes and injuries involving motorcrashes and injuries involving motor vehicles, service vehicles, and fire apparatus

Unit 10

pp


Records shall include but shall not be limited to:O d t t hi l h hi t– On-duty motor vehicle crash history

– Preventable versus non-preventable crashes– Remedial training recommended/received as a result of

previous crashes– Safety/crash review committee recommendations– All investigative/review committee reports of crashesg p– Transcripts of state drivers license records

Unit 10


Reports shall be issued to the fire chief on i b i t i th t ta recurring basis to summarize the status,

disposition, and subsequent corrective actions relative to on duty crashes involvingactions relative to on-duty crashes involving fire department/district owned or leased vehicles, fire apparatus or heavy , pp yequipment, and person vehicles that are used to transport members.

Unit 10


Permanent records shall be maintained on ll h & i j tiall crash & injury prevention

recommendations and corrective actions taken to correct unsafe acts conditions ortaken to correct unsafe acts, conditions, or practices involving department/district vehicles or apparatus.pp

Unit 10

Unit 11Unit 11

Training Program SafetyTraining Program Safety


Establish a course safety officer– Vehicle malfunctions shall be reported to safety

officer Restrict course to authorized personnel Restrict course to authorized personnel

– All personnel on the course shall be clearly visible

– Any involved personnel may designate the vehicle unsafe

Unit 11


Instructor shall accompany emergency vehicle operator in cab of vehicleoperator in cab of vehicle

– All personnel in vehicle shall wear occupant restraints– No food, drink, or smoking permitted in vehicle

Only one vehicle may utilize the course at any time– 15 MPH maximum course speed

Vehicles shall operate with headlights on– Vehicles shall operate with headlights on– No vehicle may proceed on course until approved by

safety officer

Unit 11


Prior to attempting the competency course, th hi l t t ithe emergency vehicle operator trainee shall successfully complete the classroom instruction and possess a valid driver’sinstruction, and possess a valid driver s license

The trainee shall follow all traffic laws while The trainee shall follow all traffic laws while attempting the public way course

Unit 11

FSVO January 2004