DO CH. 2

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Questions and Answers

When responding Code 3 with multiple units, what is the recommended minimum separation distance between vehicles?

200 to 300 feet

500 to 700 feet

300 to 500 feet (correct)

100 to 200 feet

During a night driving scenario, what is the correct procedure regarding the vehicles dash and panel lights?

Turn them off to reduce distraction

Dim them to reduce glare and improve night vision (correct)

Maximize the brightness for better visibility of controls

Keep them at a medium setting to balance visibility and distraction

In the event of a vehicle skid, what is the FIRST action a driver should take?

Steer in the opposite direction of the skid

Remove foot from the accelerator (correct)

Apply the brakes firmly

Engage the emergency brake

What initial action should a driver take when experiencing a tire blowout?

Accelerate initially (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the appropriate action when you encounter another emergency vehicle when responding code 3 in the same direction?

Do not pass the other emergency vehicle (C) Signup and view all the answers

During operations on or near a roadway, when should personnel wear department approved safety vests?

At all times when working in or around traffic (C) Signup and view all the answers

When responding to an emergency using Code 3, when is it acceptable to drive in the center lane?

When traffic warrants it, allowing vehicles to pull off to the right or left (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step to take when positioning apparatus on or near roadways if police have not yet arrived?

Control oncoming vehicular traffic (C) Signup and view all the answers

According to PBCFR Dispatch Protocols, what action must be taken when an incident is located on a highway?

Dispatch an additional suppression unit for blocking and safe work area creation. (B) Signup and view all the answers

When working at night on a highway incident with an apparatus facing oncoming traffic, what is the correct procedure regarding headlights?

Turn the headlights off to avoid blinding oncoming drivers. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary consideration when positioning apparatus on a fireground according to the provided guidelines?

All of the above, weighted evenly. (D) Signup and view all the answers

When using flares at night or in smoky/foggy conditions, what is a crucial safety check that MUST be performed first?

Verifying that there are no fuel leaks. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the most important rule to remember when operating near railroad tracks?

Always treat the tracks as active. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Besides weight, what other characteristic of fire apparatus increases the risk of rollover?

Top-heavy design (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the second leading cause of firefighter fatalities?

Driving accidents (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the first essential step to being a good Driver Operator as stated in the text?

Performing a thorough truck check (D) Signup and view all the answers

What should a driver do alongside a systematic truck check at the start of a shift?

Adjust seat and mirrors (B) Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what must fire rescue vehicle drivers always adhere to?

Florida State Motor Vehicle Laws, ordinances, and regulations (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of a driver operating an emergency vehicle?

To observe safe operating procedures at all times, preventing harm to people, property, and equipment. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What does 'due regard' mean in the context of emergency vehicle operation?

Considering the safety of all persons and property (B) Signup and view all the answers

What must emergency vehicle operation always be consistent with?

Reasonable safety and Florida State Statutes (B) Signup and view all the answers

When is it acceptable for personnel not to wear a seat belt in a fire rescue vehicle?

When loading hose on a moving apparatus, or when a seat belt hinders the care of a patient. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What action must a driver take before moving a Fire Rescue vehicle?

Ensure all persons on the vehicle are seated and secured with seat belts in approved, riding positions. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT mentioned in the text, when considering 'reasonable safety' during emergency vehicle operations?

Weather conditions (A) Signup and view all the answers

What activity is prohibited while a Fire Rescue vehicle is in motion?

Donning and doffing equipment or personal protection clothing that requires the removal of any restraining belt or device. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the guidelines mentioned in the text, related to driving fire apparatus?

To help keep drivers and crew members safe (C) Signup and view all the answers

Where is it expressly prohibited to ride on a Fire Rescue vehicle?

On the tailboard/running board or any location other than a designated seat. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key part of preparation according to the text, related to vehicle safety?

Ensuring the water tank is full (D) Signup and view all the answers

What should a driver conduct prior to the initial operation of an emergency vehicle?

A safety circle check/ thorough walk-around inspection of the vehicle. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is not allowed in the cab of a Fire Rescue vehicle?

Loose equipment. (B) Signup and view all the answers

According to the guidelines, who is responsible for ensuring the safety of vehicle operations?

Each driver shall observe safe-operating procedures at all times (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the rule regarding seat belts for personnel in a Fire Rescue vehicle?

All personnel should wear a seat belt whenever riding in the vehicle, unless it interferes with patient care or loading hose on a moving vehicle. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the thorough walk around inspection, also known as the safety circle check?

To identify any potential issues, before operating the vehicle. (B) Signup and view all the answers

When approaching an intersection controlled by a stop sign, what must a driver do before proceeding?

Come to a complete stop and proceed only when traffic flow and safety permits, clearing one lane of traffic. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken when approaching an intersection with a green traffic signal?

Reduce speed and cover the brake, being ready to stop if necessary. (C) Signup and view all the answers

When approaching a heavily blocked intersection, what should be considered regarding emergency lights and sirens?

Consideration should be made to shut them off to prevent forcing civilian vehicles into the intersection at a red light. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstance is it permissible for emergency vehicles to make a “U” turn on Limited Access Highways?

To gain entry to the opposite direction of traffic when responding to emergencies. (D) Signup and view all the answers

When are “U” turns on limited access highways permitted for the safety of the emergency vehicle personnel?

They are not permitted at any time, except for the purposes of gaining access to the opposite direction of traffic in the event of an emergency. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What should an emergency vehicle do if it needs to change direction on a limited access highway but is not responding to an emergency?

It should proceed to the next interchange or exit and turn around in a safe location (B) Signup and view all the answers

Under what exception would an emergency vehicle travel an excessive distance on a limited access highway, rather than taking the next exit?

Excessive travel distance to the next exit (e.g. next County). (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a Code 1 response for an emergency vehicle?

A response that does not require the use of emergency lights and siren. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does 'covering the brake' mean when approaching a green traffic signal?

Positioning the foot over the brake pedal with a light pressure, to be ready to stop if needed. (D) Signup and view all the answers

When approaching an intersection with a red traffic signal, what steps must a driver take?

Come to a complete stop and proceed only when traffic and safety permits whilst clearing one lane of traffic. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Operations

Palm Beach County Fire Rescue responds to nearly 150,000 calls annually.
Approximately 20-25% of firefighter injuries and fatalities are caused by vehicle collisions.
Vehicle collisions are a leading cause of firefighter deaths.
Factors contributing to accidents include excessive speed, poor navigation, unfamiliarity with the apparatus, lack of seatbelt use, and inadequate driver training.
Driver Operators (DOs) are responsible for safely and efficiently transporting apparatus and crews to incidents.
DOs must comply with all Florida state motor vehicle laws, ordinances, and regulations, as well as county driver rules and DOT regulations.
DOs must also adhere to all departmental policies and procedures, and Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs).
Defensive driving techniques, including safe following distances, evasive maneuvers, and anticipating other drivers' actions, are crucial.
Accidents often occur during daylight hours with dry road conditions.
Florida drivers of authorized emergency vehicles do not require a commercial driver's license (CDL). They must instead have a Class E license.

Reasonable Safety

Considerations for deciding if initiating an emergency vehicle operation is justified
factors impacting safety include, the type of call, roadway conditions (traffic and weather), and other emergency factors impacting vehicle operation.

EVOC Driving Course

The Palm Beach County Fire Rescue (PBCFR) EVOC Driving Course is available for training and improving driving skills.
PBCFR EVOC course covers various maneuvers including Lane Changes, Turn Around, Serpentine driving, Diminishing Lanes, Straight lanes, Alley Dock and Lane Changes (forward and reverse)

Gross Vehicle Weight for Apparatus

Average weights of vehicles (engines, aerial apparatus, tenders, brush trucks). Weights include equipment, water, and crew.

Emergency Driving Guidelines

General guidelines for safe driving of fire apparatus, including proper procedures and safety protocols.

Safe Driving Practices

All Fire Rescue drivers must comply with Florida Statute laws, ordinances and regulations.
Drivers of emergency vehicles are exempt from some traffic laws, but must maintain "reasonable safety".
Considerations must be given to the type of call, roadway conditions, and other emergency factors when operating emergency vehicles.

Intersection Safety

Specific procedures for safely navigating intersections, including stop signs, traffic signals, and extreme caution
Emergency vehicles must stop at intersections if traffic conditions necessitate a stop.
Vehicles should reduce speed and be prepared to stop at intersections, if needed to prevent accidents.

Limited Access Highways

Emergency vehicles may use U-Turns to navigate limited access highways effectively to respond quickly.
Extreme caution is needed when operating emergency vehicles on limited-access highways.

Types of Emergency Response

Code classifications for emergency responses
Code 1: Standard driving (no lights or sirens).
Code 2: Emergency driving with lights but no sirens.
Code 3: Full emergency response using lights and sirens.

Safe Operations with Multiple Units

Guidelines for maintaining safe distances and avoiding collisions when two or more emergency vehicles are operating together.
Separation distances of 300-500 feet.
Drivers should not pass vehicles already actively responding to an emergency.

Night Driving and Skid Control

Night driving techniques (dim lights, reduced speed, etc.) and methods for controlling skidding.

Apparatus Positioning

Best practices for positioning apparatus on or near roadways to minimize risk to personnel , vehicles, and public.

Safe Work Zones

Creating safe work zones to prevent collisions.

Backing Procedures for Apparatus

Specific hand signals for backing
Use of backup persons.
Visual and verbal communication must be maintained between the driver and backup person.
Driver must check for obstructions before backing.

Siren Use

Proper use of sirens, emphasizing the need to actively adjust siren use based on location and traffic.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the proper protocols for emergency vehicle operations, such as response codes, vehicle separation, and nighttime driving procedures. This quiz covers critical actions to take during various emergency scenarios, including tire blowouts and road safety. Understanding these procedures is essential for maintaining safety on the road while responding to emergencies.