Aerial Apparatus Operator Operating Emergency Vehicles

Driving 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

Attitude First element in learning to drive safely Driver must remain calm Driver cannot demand right-of-way

Attitude Accidents occurring enroute have many consequences

Safety 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 YOUR driving?

Basic Concepts of Defensive Driving Anticipate others reactions Visual lead time Braking and reaction time

Combating skids Evasive tactics Knowledge of weight transfer Basic Concepts of Defensive Driving

Anticipate Other Drivers Reactions Know rules that govern public when emergency vehicles approach People may panic Drivers may not see or hear you Expect the unexpected

Control 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 Time Interacts directly with reaction time and stopping distance Driver responsible for 360 degree driving

Braking 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 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 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 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 Weather Rain or ice makes roads slippery Stopping distance 3-15 times more for wet or icy roads Adjust speed

Tiller 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 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 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 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 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

Backing 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