Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator Chapter 3

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Questions and Answers

What should a driver do when a school bus is loading or unloading students?

Ignore the bus and continue driving

Proceed slowly past the bus looking out for any children

Proceed only after the bus driver or a police officer gives the signal (correct)

Remain at a stop until the bus begins moving

Where is the most common place for a collision to occur?

At intersections (correct)

On residential streets

On highways

In parking lots

What should a driver do in order to lower the chances of being involved in a collision?

Drive faster to react quickly

Use electronic devices while driving

Ignore traffic signs and signals

Maintain situational awareness (correct)

What is considered a reckless action while driving a fire apparatus?

Attempting to read a map or electronic device Signup and view all the answers

What can lead to brake fade in fire apparatus?

Overheated brake components Signup and view all the answers

Which action is considered a menace to other vehicles and pedestrians while driving a fire apparatus?

Driving aggressively and failing to observe safety precautions Signup and view all the answers

What generally accounts for a significant percentage of all damage repair costs?

Improper backing Signup and view all the answers

What can result in a lack of driving skills?

Overconfidence in driving ability Signup and view all the answers

What may make an apparatus with a properly baffled tank more dangerous?

Being partially filled Signup and view all the answers

What is essential for ensuring maximum braking efficiency?

Effective handling and braking techniques Signup and view all the answers

What is the max speed for driving the apparatus during hose loading?

5 mph Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the safety observer during hose loading?

Constant visual contact with the loading operation and communication with the driver Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken to ensure safety during hose loading?

Close the area to other vehicular traffic Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an active regeneration for an apparatus equipped with a diesel particulate filter (DPF)?

To raise the exhaust temperature and burn off the soot Signup and view all the answers

What are the consequences of ignoring an empty Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) tank in the apparatus?

The apparatus may be limited in speed to 5 mph and require service Signup and view all the answers

When does a manual (parked) regeneration occur for an apparatus with a diesel particulate filter (DPF)?

Requires operator involvement to initiate Signup and view all the answers

What are the potential consequences of shutting down an engine without sufficient cool down?

Immediate increase of engine temp, oil film 'burning' on hot surfaces, damage to heads and exhaust manifolds, damage to turbocharger Signup and view all the answers

When should mirror adjustment take place for a fire apparatus?

At the start of each shift or any time driving responsibility changes Signup and view all the answers

What is the angle of departure for a fire apparatus?

The angle formed by level ground and a line from the point where the rear tires touch the ground to the lowest projection at the rear of the apparatus Signup and view all the answers

What does poor weight distribution in a fire apparatus cause?

Too much weight on the steering axle causing hard steering and potential damage Signup and view all the answers

What law does weight transfer in a fire apparatus follow?

"Objects in motion tend to stay in motion; objects at rest tend to stay at rest unless acted upon by an outside force." Signup and view all the answers

What is the angle of approach for a fire apparatus?

The angle formed by level ground and a line from the point where the front tires touch the ground to the lowest projection at the front of the apparatus Signup and view all the answers

What is the breakover angle for a fire apparatus?

The angle formed by level ground and a line from the point where the rear tires touch to the bottom of the frame at the wheelbase midpoint Signup and view all the answers

What is overthrottling in the context of a diesel engine?

Injecting more fuel than can be burned off Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the placard required by NFPA 1901 in every fire apparatus?

To list vehicle height and weight for bridge and overpass limit awareness Signup and view all the answers

What should drivers do to help avoid potential collisions?

Aim high in steering, get the big picture, leave yourself an 'out', maintain enough distance from the vehicle in front of you Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to weigh the apparatus after loading it with equipment and personnel?

To ensure balanced axle loading within specified limits Signup and view all the answers

There are 19,824 locations in the U.S. where there are _ following the railroad tracks.

Less than 100 feet Signup and view all the answers

At what speed will emergency vehicles outrun their audible devices?

above 50 mph Signup and view all the answers

What should be the minimum distance apart for multiple emergency vehicles responding on the same route?

300 to 500 ft Signup and view all the answers

What should drivers do in approaching intersections with a red light?

Approach with extreme caution and come to a complete stop before proceeding Signup and view all the answers

What is recommended to make the intended path of the apparatus more obvious to other drivers?

Use broader movements with the apparatus to lessen weight transfer Signup and view all the answers

What should drivers turn on as part of the emergency response?

Headlights Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended action to take when passing other vehicles?

Always travel on the innermost lane on multilane roads Signup and view all the answers

What can result from excessive or abrupt braking in a fire apparatus?

Mechanical failure and skidding Signup and view all the answers

How do drivers establish visual lead time for stopping or evasive maneuvers?

By scanning their path of travel far enough ahead based upon their speed Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of engine brakes and retarders in a fire apparatus?

To extend the life of service brake components and make apparatus easier to manage Signup and view all the answers

What is the total stopping distance for a driver?

The sum of reaction distance and braking distance Signup and view all the answers

What is the driver's reaction distance?

The distance the apparatus travels while the driver transfers foot from accelerator to brake pedal Signup and view all the answers

What should a driver do in an acceleration skid?

Not apply brakes, ease off the accelerator, and straighten out front wheels Signup and view all the answers

What generally causes a locked wheel skid?

Braking too hard at a high rate of speed Signup and view all the answers

What is the least capable auxiliary braking system for a fire apparatus?

Exhaust brake Signup and view all the answers

What is required to be equipped on all apparatus with a GVWR of 36,000 lb or greater?

Auxiliary braking system Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of an engine compression brake?

Electronically-actuated mechanical system added to the engine valve train Signup and view all the answers

What causes some loss of effectiveness in electromagnetic retarders?

High temperatures Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a transmission output retarder in a fire apparatus?

To use the viscous property of the automatic transmission fluid to retard the driveline Signup and view all the answers

What is a hazardous aspect of backing a fire apparatus?

The vehicle's size and limited rear visibility Signup and view all the answers

What should the driver do if they lose sight of the spotter during backing?

Stop, set parking brake, get out and check that everyone understands the plan Signup and view all the answers

Where should the spotter be positioned when preparing to back the apparatus?

Approx. 8 to 10 feet behind and slightly left of the apparatus Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with swing-up doors when not in use?

Close them to reduce potential for injury Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended vehicle speed for maintaining aerial hose chute considerations?

5 mph or less Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

School Bus Safety

Drivers must stop when a school bus is loading or unloading students, yielding for children's safety.

Collision Risks

Most collisions occur near or at schools, particularly when buses are active.
To reduce collision risks, maintain vigilance, follow speed limits, and keep a safe following distance.

Fire Apparatus Operations

Recklessness while driving a fire apparatus includes speeding, weaving, and ignoring regulations.
Brake fade in fire apparatus can result from prolonged braking, often due to steep descents or poor maintenance.

Driver Conduct

Driving aggressively constitutes a menace to other vehicles and pedestrians, jeopardizing safety.
Significant damage repair costs frequently arise from accidents during emergency responses.

Driving Skills

Inadequate training or experience can lead to a lack of driving skills among fire apparatus operators.

Tank Safety

Apparatus with improperly baffled tanks may be more dangerous due to fuel slosh affecting stability.
Maximum braking efficiency relies on proper maintenance and timely checks of the braking system.

Speed and Operations

The maximum speed for driving the apparatus during hose loading is typically set at a safety limit to ensure secure operation.

Safety Observations

A safety observer during hose loading is crucial for maintaining clear communication and ensuring all protocols are followed.
Implementing cone placements and signaling aids enhances safety during hose loading operations.

Diesel Exhaust Management

Active regeneration of apparatus equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) helps reduce emissions and maintain engine performance.
Ignoring an empty Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) tank can lead to engine performance issues and shutdowns.

Engine Management

Manual regeneration occurs when the DPF requires cleaning, often initiated by the operator.
Insufficient engine cooldown can cause severe damage and overheating issues.

Vehicle Dynamics

Mirror adjustments for fire apparatus should occur before operation for optimal visibility and safety.
Weight distribution affects handling; poor distribution can cause rollovers or instability.

Apparatus Measurements

Angle of approach, departure, and breakover are critical to understand for clearance and maneuverability of the fire apparatus.

Diesel Engine Operations

Overthrottling can lead to engine strain and inefficiencies in fuel consumption.
NFPA 1901 requires placards on fire apparatus to ensure awareness of hazardous materials and emergency instructions.

Emergency Responses

To avoid collisions, drivers should use emergency lights and sirens, ensuring their presence is noted by other road users.
When approaching intersections with a red light, drivers must slow down and prepare to stop, checking for cross traffic.

Driving Behaviors

Drivers should signal clearly to indicate their path of travel, making intentions transparent to others.
Recommended actions when passing include maintaining a safe distance and signaling until fully clear of the other vehicle.

Braking Techniques

Excessive braking can lead to instability and loss of control in a fire apparatus, particularly on slick surfaces.
Establishing visual lead time helps drivers anticipate stopping or evasive maneuvers, enhancing safety.

Auxiliary Braking

Engine brakes and retarders reduce wear and heat, aiding in safe deceleration.
Total stopping distance includes the driver's reaction distance, which varies based on speed and conditions.

Skid Management

In an acceleration skid, the driver should reduce pressure on the accelerator and steer in the direction of the intended path.
A locked wheel skid results from abrupt braking, leading to loss of control.

Equipment and Regulations

Fire apparatus over 36,000 lb GVWR must be equipped with specific safety devices for compliance and driver protection.
Engine compression brakes are critical for maintaining control and limiting high speeds during downhill travel.

Backing Safety

Backing a fire apparatus presents numerous hazards; drivers should avoid doing so without a spotter.
If vision of the spotter is lost, the driver must stop immediately and reassess safety before proceeding.

Physical Maneuvering

Spotters should be positioned clearly behind the apparatus, ensuring safe navigation during backing maneuvers.
Swing-up doors should be secured when not in use to prevent accidents or injuries.

Aerial Considerations

Recommended vehicle speed for aerial hose chute operations should be low, allowing for safe deployment and retrieval of equipment.

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