EMERGENCY VEHICLE OPERATOR CLASS B MODULE 2

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Questions and Answers

What is the main purpose of knowing the components of a vehicle?

To determine the maintenance requirements for vehicle systems

To identify defects and write accurate defect reports (correct)

To review MCFRS out-of-service criteria for fire department apparatus

To review defect reporting and resources for apparatus operators

What is Class 1 leakage?

Seepage of fluid; not enough to form drops (correct)

Leakage great enough for drops to drip

Leakage great enough to form drops; drops do not drip

Seepage of fluid that forms drops

What is an Operational Test?

A test to review MCFRS out-of-service criteria

A test to determine the operational readiness of a component (correct)

A test to identify defects in a component

A test to determine the maintenance requirements of a component

What is a critical aspect of vehicle safety?

Identifying normal, monitoring, and out-of-service conditions Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a pre-trip inspection?

To ensure the vehicle is in a safe operating condition Signup and view all the answers

What are the five primary vehicle systems that impact vehicle safety?

Steering, Tires, Wheels, Suspension, and Brakes Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of being able to identify defects and write accurate defect reports?

To identify critical safety issues before they cause injury or damage Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for vehicle operators to communicate with mechanics when describing conditions?

To speak the same language as mechanics Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of inadequate tire tread depth?

Increased stopping distance Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum tread depth required for steering axles?

4/32 inch Signup and view all the answers

How should the tread depth of a tire be measured?

In multiple areas around the tire Signup and view all the answers

What is a method to check if a tire has adequate tread depth?

Inserting a quarter into the groove Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to check the tread pattern of steering tires?

To ensure the tread patterns match from side to side Signup and view all the answers

What happens when a tire's tread depth is below the minimum requirement?

The tire's stopping distance increases Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of checking the tread depth of non-steering axles?

To ensure the tire has a minimum tread depth of 2/32 inch Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of hydroplaning?

Loss of vehicle control Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of brakes in a vehicle?

To control the movement of the vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical inspection point for tire condition?

Looking for bulges on the sidewall Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of improper tire inflation?

Increased stress on the tire Signup and view all the answers

What should be examined during a tire inspection?

The entire tire, including the sidewall and valve stem Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to ensure dual wheels are not touching each other?

To prevent uneven wear and potential failure Signup and view all the answers

What should be referenced to verify tire pressure?

The data plate in the cab or on a door frame Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of insufficient tread depth?

Increased risk of hydroplaning and skidding Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of capping valve stems?

To prevent leaks and ensure proper inflation Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when approaching the final spot?

Approach the final spot slowly Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to leave clear space around the vehicle?

To reduce the risk of collision Signup and view all the answers

What should you assume about passing motorists on the roadway?

They cannot see the apparatus or personnel Signup and view all the answers

What is a consideration for situational positioning?

Action areas Signup and view all the answers

What is a benefit of leaving the roadway in some situations?

Tactical advantage for operations Signup and view all the answers

What should you consider when deciding to leave the roadway?

Will the surface support the apparatus? Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when arriving at the scene?

Proceed as though no other units have already entered Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to plan ahead when decelerating?

To avoid sudden stops Signup and view all the answers

What is a common element leading to crashes when arriving at the scene?

Passing the address Signup and view all the answers

What should you do to avoid missing the address?

Slow down and look for the address Signup and view all the answers

What is important to know before arriving at the scene?

The cross street before the target block Signup and view all the answers

Why is smooth deceleration important?

It is easier on the apparatus and crew Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when approaching an intersection?

Look for potential hazards and traffic lights Signup and view all the answers

What is important when positioning the apparatus?

Positioning for optimal visibility Signup and view all the answers

When arriving at a crash scene on the interstate, where should you park and why?

On the outer loop to increase visibility and protection Signup and view all the answers

What is the priority when arriving at a crash scene?

Securing the scene to prevent further accidents Signup and view all the answers

Why should you treat the roadway like an IDLH atmosphere?

Because it is a high-risk environment for vehicle operators Signup and view all the answers

What should you rely on to stop a vehicle from approaching the crash scene?

Your apparatus's position and visibility Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to position yourself and your apparatus for maximum visibility and protection?

To prevent accidents from occurring on the scene Signup and view all the answers

When should you treat the roadway like an IDLH atmosphere?

Every time you are in the road Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if your vehicle gets stuck in a low-traction surface?

Use integral vehicle systems to assist with traction Signup and view all the answers

What is a common hazard in parking lots?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before leaving the bay?

Complete a visual check and verify the door is fully open Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to know how your doors work?

For human safety Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when you encounter a low-traction surface?

Back out or try to 'rock' the vehicle to better traction Signup and view all the answers

What should you consider when approaching a parking lot?

The time of day Signup and view all the answers

Why should you avoid repeated and rapid spinning of standard tire chains?

It can destroy the chains Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when leaving the bay?

Leave slowly and verify the crew is ready Signup and view all the answers

What must all personnel wear when on scene at incident scenes on arterials/highways/streets?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What should drivers do when approaching an emergency vehicle from the rear?

Make a lane change into an available lane not immediately adjacent to the emergency vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What should you consider when positioning your apparatus on a roadway?

Position for maximum visibility and protection Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when exiting the cab of an apparatus?

Maintain a low profile and avoid walking around the end of an open door Signup and view all the answers

What is a risk on a limited access roadway with a 55mph speed limit on a foggy and misty Christmas night?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to wear reflective vests on a roadway?

To increase visibility to others Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to position yourself to face oncoming traffic when getting equipment from an apparatus?

To reduce the risk of being hit by oncoming traffic Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical aspect of personal visibility on a roadway?

Wearing reflective vests Signup and view all the answers

What should you avoid doing when exiting the patient compartment?

Walking around the end of an open door Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to protect the rear of EMS Transport Units?

To reduce the risk of accidents Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when arriving at a scene on a highway?

Position your apparatus for maximum visibility and protection Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when parking on a roadway?

Angle the apparatus every time Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to be cautious when using flashlights on a roadway?

They can blind drivers Signup and view all the answers

Why should you stop, look, and listen before walking around the corner of an apparatus?

To reduce the risk of accidents Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when exiting the cab of an apparatus on a roadway?

Maintain a low profile and avoid walking around the end of an open door Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to consider angling the apparatus every time you park on a roadway?

To reduce the risk of accidents Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when your vehicle gets stuck in a low-traction surface?

Use integral vehicle systems to assist with traction Signup and view all the answers

What is a common hazard in parking lots?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before leaving the bay?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to know how your doors work?

To avoid reliance on collision sensors Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when approaching a parking lot?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is a common error when using standard tire chains?

Repeatingly and rapidly spinning the tires Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when encountering a low-traction surface?

Use integral vehicle systems to assist with traction Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when leaving the bay?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What should a driver do when approaching an emergency vehicle stopped on a highway?

Make a lane change into an available lane not immediately adjacent to the emergency vehicle Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of wearing a traffic safety vest at an incident scene on arterials/highways/streets?

To increase visibility to passing motorists Signup and view all the answers

What is a risk associated with positioning an apparatus on a limited access roadway with a 55mph speed limit in foggy and misty weather on a Christmas night?

Increased risk of accidents due to low visibility and speed Signup and view all the answers

What is an important consideration when positioning an apparatus on a roadway?

Maximizing visibility to passing motorists Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of personal visibility when working on a roadway?

Wearing a traffic safety vest Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of inadequate visibility when working on a roadway?

Increased risk of accidents due to low visibility Signup and view all the answers

What should a responder do when approaching an incident scene on a roadway?

Plan ahead and position the apparatus for maximum visibility and protection Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to wear a traffic safety vest when working on a roadway?

To increase visibility to passing motorists Signup and view all the answers

When exiting the apparatus, what should you do to ensure safety?

Maintain a 'Low Profile' and do not open the door fully Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when getting equipment from the apparatus?

Position yourself to face oncoming traffic Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when parking on a roadway, even at the curb?

Angle the apparatus every time you park Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to avoid placing yourself between oncoming traffic and your apparatus?

To reduce the risk of being struck by oncoming traffic Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before people dismount from the apparatus?

Check side mirrors just before people dismount Signup and view all the answers

What should you consider when parking the EMS Transport Unit?

Positioning the unit at an angle or in a protected area Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when exiting the patient compartment?

Maintain a 'Low Profile' and do not open the door fully Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to stop, look, and listen before walking around the corner of an apparatus?

To reduce the risk of being struck by oncoming traffic Signup and view all the answers

What is a consideration for situational positioning when arriving at the scene?

Casting a large shadow Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to leave clear space around the vehicle when arriving at the scene?

To enable easy access for incoming companies Signup and view all the answers

What should you assume about passing motorists on the roadway when arriving at the scene?

They may not see the apparatus or personnel Signup and view all the answers

What is a benefit of leaving the roadway in some situations?

Enhanced tactical advantage Signup and view all the answers

What is important to consider when deciding to leave the roadway?

Both the surface support and the tactical advantage Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when arriving at the scene?

Approach the final spot slowly Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of blocking apparatus in traffic control?

To halt or divert the flow of moving traffic in one or more lanes Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided when positioning blocking apparatus?

Blocking partial lanes Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe the area immediately downstream of any apparatus or vehicle that blocks moving traffic?

Shadow area Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to work within the 'shadow' area?

For greatest degree of safety and protection from moving traffic Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of positioning an apparatus at an angle to block traffic?

To halt or divert the flow of moving traffic in one or more lanes Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to protect the loading area for the ambulance and work area for crews?

Set up traffic control devices Signup and view all the answers

What should be prioritized when arriving at the scene?

Moving traffic hazards Signup and view all the answers

What should be done to ensure safety when blocking traffic?

Avoiding gaps behind or in front of the apparatus Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial aspect of apparatus positioning?

Choosing a spot with good visibility Signup and view all the answers

When should personnel be cautious of their surroundings?

When getting out of the unit, walking around the unit, retrieving equipment, getting into the unit, and spotting for the unit Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to consider the equipment you will need when positioning the apparatus?

To ensure you have everything you need Signup and view all the answers

What should you prioritize when positioning the apparatus?

Protecting the most people most of the time Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential hazard of positioning the apparatus in a break in the median?

Being struck by a tractor-trailer Signup and view all the answers

What is a benefit of using scene lighting?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is a danger of positioning the apparatus near a median crossing?

Being struck by a vehicle Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to consider the civilians at the scene?

They may be in danger and need protection Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Major Vehicle Systems

There are five primary vehicle systems that impact safe control of the apparatus: tires, wheels, steering, suspension, and brakes.

Tires

Key factors affecting vehicle movement: steering, braking, accelerating, condition, inflation, and depth.
Conditions for safe tires: • No cuts that expose cords. • No bulges on sidewall indicating cord separation. • Front tires are not re-grooved or recapped. • Front tires are not mismatched.
Importance of proper inflation: • Improper inflation increases stress on the tire, reduces performance in emergency handling, increases wear, and increases resistance to rolling and heat.
Pre-trip inspection for inflation: • Check for obviously flat tires. • Listen and look for leaks. • Look for abnormal bulging. • Measure tire pressure against manufacturer's specification. • Ensure valve stems are capped and not touching the wheel.
Tread depth requirements: • DOT minimum tread depths: 4/32 inch for steering axles and 2/32 inch for other axles. • Check tread depth in multiple areas and grooves. • Tread should be worn evenly.
Other considerations: • Steering tires should have matching tread patterns and be the same size and type.

Arriving and Positioning

Approach the final spot slowly and spot for tactical advantage.
Leave clear space around the vehicle, considering compartment doors, walking paths, and outriggers.
Drive out instead of back out and leave access for incoming companies.
Assume passing motorists do not see the apparatus or personnel on the roadway.
Consider situational positioning, including action areas, casting a large shadow, pump panel area, smoke conditions, and hazmats.
Determine if it's necessary to be on the road at all.

Beaching

Consider leaving the roadway in some situations for tactical advantage or to leave space for other units.
Evaluate if the surface will support the apparatus and if it can be fully or partially off the road.
Assess if leaving the roadway will provide a tactical advantage.

Intersections

Travel single file with the largest vehicle leading to create a path.
Maintain space cushions and expect the leading unit to stop.
Each vehicle must use normal precautions as if no other units have already entered.
Use contrasting siren tones, such as electronic sirens with alternating or pulsing tones.

Deceleration

Allow auxiliary braking systems to work and avoid hard stops.
Smooth deceleration stops require planning ahead, good visual lead time, and picking a stopping point on the horizon.
Decelerate early to avoid harsh stops on the apparatus, equipment, and crew.

Finding the Address

Avoid passing the address, which can lead to crashes, U-turns, backing against traffic, and operator frustration.
Preplan and use teamwork to know block numbers, cross streets, and "catching features" to avoid difficult turns.

Case Studies

Review the 2014 civil suit case, resulting in a $186,000 settlement, and the 2010 incident where two firefighters were killed.
Analyze the case study of E707, where the apparatus was struck by another vehicle shortly after arrival, and how it effectively shielded the crew from harm.
Watch the body camera footage from the MC Sheriff Deputy and E707's E4 to understand the scenario.

Vehicle Operations

If stuck, try to "rock" the vehicle or use integral systems to assist with traction
Avoid repeatedly spinning tires when using standard tire chains
Remain patient and assess the need for assistance

Parking Lots

Be aware of physical hazards such as tight corners, landscape trees, protective bollards, and light poles
Adjust your time of day to avoid peak hours if possible
Choose a safe parking spot and avoid parking in fire lanes
Be cautious of distracted drivers and pedestrians

Around the Firehouse

Complete a visual check before leaving the bay
Disconnect shorelines and verify the door is fully open
Ensure the crew is ready to depart, seated, belted, and doors closed
Leave slowly and know how your doors work!

Roadway Survival

Always wear a traffic safety vest, structural firefighting coat, or sector/command vest on incident scenes
Use flashlights to grab attention, but avoid blinding drivers
Be cautious of limited protection from open-sided vests on roadways
Ensure all responders are visible

Apparatus Positioning

Follow Maryland Code § 21-405: drivers approaching an emergency vehicle must change lanes or slow down
Consider positioning the apparatus at an angle when parking on a roadway

Roadway Risks

Be aware of risks such as limited access roadways, speed limits, weather conditions, and nighttime operations

Exit Strategies

Check side mirrors before exiting the apparatus to ensure it's safe
Stop, look, and listen before walking around the corner of an apparatus
Position yourself to face oncoming traffic when getting equipment
Avoid placing yourself between oncoming traffic and your apparatus

Exiting the Cab

Maintain a "Low Profile" when exiting the cab
Do not open the door fully and avoid walking around the end of an open door

Exiting the Patient Compartment

Maintain a "Low Profile" when exiting the patient compartment
Do not open the door fully and avoid walking around the end of an open door
Minimize your time in the doorway

Vehicle Operations

If stuck, try to "rock" the vehicle or use integral systems to assist with traction
Avoid repeatedly spinning tires when using standard tire chains
Remain patient and assess the need for assistance

Parking Lots

Be aware of physical hazards such as tight corners, landscape trees, protective bollards, and light poles
Adjust your time of day to avoid peak hours if possible
Choose a safe parking spot and avoid parking in fire lanes
Be cautious of distracted drivers and pedestrians

Around the Firehouse

Complete a visual check before leaving the bay
Disconnect shorelines and verify the door is fully open
Ensure the crew is ready to depart, seated, belted, and doors closed
Leave slowly and know how your doors work!

Roadway Survival

Always wear a traffic safety vest, structural firefighting coat, or sector/command vest on incident scenes
Use flashlights to grab attention, but avoid blinding drivers
Be cautious of limited protection from open-sided vests on roadways
Ensure all responders are visible

Apparatus Positioning

Follow Maryland Code § 21-405: drivers approaching an emergency vehicle must change lanes or slow down
Consider positioning the apparatus at an angle when parking on a roadway

Roadway Risks

Be aware of risks such as limited access roadways, speed limits, weather conditions, and nighttime operations

Exit Strategies

Check side mirrors before exiting the apparatus to ensure it's safe
Stop, look, and listen before walking around the corner of an apparatus
Position yourself to face oncoming traffic when getting equipment
Avoid placing yourself between oncoming traffic and your apparatus

Exiting the Cab

Maintain a "Low Profile" when exiting the cab
Do not open the door fully and avoid walking around the end of an open door

Exiting the Patient Compartment

Maintain a "Low Profile" when exiting the patient compartment
Do not open the door fully and avoid walking around the end of an open door
Minimize your time in the doorway

Arriving and Positioning

Approach the final spot slowly and spot for tactical advantage
Leave clear space around the vehicle, considering compartment doors, walking paths, and outriggers
Drive out instead of backing out and leave access for incoming companies
Assume passing motorists do not see the apparatus or personnel on the roadway
Consider situational positioning, including action areas, casting a large shadow, pump panel area, smoke conditions, and hazmats

Beaching

Consider leaving the roadway for tactical advantage and to leave space for other units
Ensure the surface can support the apparatus and consider if it will be fully or partially off the road

Blocking

Blocking involves positioning an apparatus or vehicle at an angle to halt or divert moving traffic
Blocking apparatus should not be occupied and should not block partial lanes
Be aware of gaps behind or in front of the apparatus that allow cars to enter the work area

Safety Considerations

Work within the "shadow" area downstream of the blocking apparatus for greatest safety and protection
Policy prohibits turning around at median crossings or breaks in the center barrier when traffic is uncontrolled
Always maintain personal situational awareness, even when apparatus positioning is safe
Protect the most people most of the time by considering equipment needs and pump operator safety

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Description

Test your knowledge of major vehicle systems, pre-trip inspections, and maintenance requirements. Also, review out-of-service criteria and defect reporting for fire department apparatus.