Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is a consideration for firefighters operating an aerial device near a structure that may collapse?
What is a consideration for firefighters operating an aerial device near a structure that may collapse?
What is a sign of structural inadequacy in a building?
What is a sign of structural inadequacy in a building?
Why is it important to know your response district?
Why is it important to know your response district?
What is a consideration when operating an aerial device near a railroad track?
What is a consideration when operating an aerial device near a railroad track?
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What is a sign of a potentially collapsing structure?
What is a sign of a potentially collapsing structure?
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Why is it important to consider the fire load to structural members?
Why is it important to consider the fire load to structural members?
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What is a consideration when operating an aerial device near a collapsing structure?
What is a consideration when operating an aerial device near a collapsing structure?
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What is an additional live load that affects a building's structural integrity?
What is an additional live load that affects a building's structural integrity?
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What is the main reason for shuffling your feet while moving away from the apparatus?
What is the main reason for shuffling your feet while moving away from the apparatus?
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Why should firefighters be cautious during routine activities like shift check-out or public education events?
Why should firefighters be cautious during routine activities like shift check-out or public education events?
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What should the driver of the second truck arriving at the scene consider when positioning their apparatus?
What should the driver of the second truck arriving at the scene consider when positioning their apparatus?
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What should the operator do if there is no space to position their aerial unit?
What should the operator do if there is no space to position their aerial unit?
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Why should the next arriving truck leave room to deploy the ground ladders from the rear chute of the apparatus?
Why should the next arriving truck leave room to deploy the ground ladders from the rear chute of the apparatus?
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What should the driver consider when deciding how to approach the scene?
What should the driver consider when deciding how to approach the scene?
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Why is it important to observe the placement of the units already on the scene?
Why is it important to observe the placement of the units already on the scene?
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Why is it advantageous to have someone spotting from the turntable or watching from the platform?
Why is it advantageous to have someone spotting from the turntable or watching from the platform?
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What is a challenge of operating from the platform?
What is a challenge of operating from the platform?
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Why must personnel be secured by a ladder belt or safety mechanism?
Why must personnel be secured by a ladder belt or safety mechanism?
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What should operators do before moving the aerial device?
What should operators do before moving the aerial device?
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Why is it important to approach the target at low or slow speed?
Why is it important to approach the target at low or slow speed?
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What is the purpose of creeper controls?
What is the purpose of creeper controls?
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What is a common challenge when operating from the platform?
What is a common challenge when operating from the platform?
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Why is it important to know the features of the platform?
Why is it important to know the features of the platform?
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What is the primary reason for determining the angle of inclination when extending the aerial ladder?
What is the primary reason for determining the angle of inclination when extending the aerial ladder?
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What is the main challenge when extending the ladder well short of the intended target?
What is the main challenge when extending the ladder well short of the intended target?
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How can operators solve the depth perception problem during sunny daytime operations?
How can operators solve the depth perception problem during sunny daytime operations?
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What is the purpose of the floodlights at the tip of the aerial ladder?
What is the purpose of the floodlights at the tip of the aerial ladder?
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Why should the floodlights at the tip of the aerial ladder be in the 'ON' position?
Why should the floodlights at the tip of the aerial ladder be in the 'ON' position?
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What can the floodlights at the tip of the aerial ladder help the operator spot during operation?
What can the floodlights at the tip of the aerial ladder help the operator spot during operation?
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What happens to the light pattern as the aerial ladder is extended to the building?
What happens to the light pattern as the aerial ladder is extended to the building?
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Why is it important to approach the target at low or slow speed when extending the aerial ladder?
Why is it important to approach the target at low or slow speed when extending the aerial ladder?
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When positioning an aerial ladder for window access, where should the front edge of the platform be placed?
When positioning an aerial ladder for window access, where should the front edge of the platform be placed?
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What is the advantage of placing the upper railing of the platform even with the window sill?
What is the advantage of placing the upper railing of the platform even with the window sill?
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Why is it important to leave space between the aerial and the structure during roof access?
Why is it important to leave space between the aerial and the structure during roof access?
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How far should the aerial ladder be extended over the edge of the roof for roof access?
How far should the aerial ladder be extended over the edge of the roof for roof access?
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What is the benefit of positioning the platform with approximately half the platform over the edge of the roof?
What is the benefit of positioning the platform with approximately half the platform over the edge of the roof?
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What is a disadvantage of placing the upper railing of the platform even with the window sill?
What is a disadvantage of placing the upper railing of the platform even with the window sill?
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Why is it important to position the platform access doors to maximize the available opening in front of the window?
Why is it important to position the platform access doors to maximize the available opening in front of the window?
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What is a consideration when positioning an aerial ladder for window access?
What is a consideration when positioning an aerial ladder for window access?
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What is the recommended angle between the ladder pipe and the control handle?
What is the recommended angle between the ladder pipe and the control handle?
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Where should the halyard be secured to on the ladder pipe?
Where should the halyard be secured to on the ladder pipe?
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Why should MCFRS Training Division not recommend placing a rope through the rungs of a hydraulic ladder?
Why should MCFRS Training Division not recommend placing a rope through the rungs of a hydraulic ladder?
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How many rope hose tools or hose straps should be used to secure the hose to the ladder?
How many rope hose tools or hose straps should be used to secure the hose to the ladder?
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Where should the rope hose tool be placed at the center of the ladder?
Where should the rope hose tool be placed at the center of the ladder?
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Why should the hose be secured to the ladder?
Why should the hose be secured to the ladder?
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What should be done with the control handle halyard?
What should be done with the control handle halyard?
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Where should the third rope hose tool or hose strap be placed?
Where should the third rope hose tool or hose strap be placed?
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What is a sign of structural inadequacy in a building during a fire?
What is a sign of structural inadequacy in a building during a fire?
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What can increase the live load on a building during firefighting operations?
What can increase the live load on a building during firefighting operations?
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What should firefighters look for to identify potential collapse zones?
What should firefighters look for to identify potential collapse zones?
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Why is it important for firefighters to know their response district?
Why is it important for firefighters to know their response district?
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What should aerial apparatus operators do when operating near a rail right-of-way?
What should aerial apparatus operators do when operating near a rail right-of-way?
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What can indicate a building is showing signs of weakening during a fire?
What can indicate a building is showing signs of weakening during a fire?
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Why is it important for firefighters to be cautious during routine activities like shift check-out or public education events?
Why is it important for firefighters to be cautious during routine activities like shift check-out or public education events?
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What is a consideration for firefighters operating an aerial device near a structure that may collapse?
What is a consideration for firefighters operating an aerial device near a structure that may collapse?
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What is the primary objective of a Blitz Attack?
What is the primary objective of a Blitz Attack?
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What is a critical consideration when using a master stream in a Blitz Attack?
What is a critical consideration when using a master stream in a Blitz Attack?
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Why is it important to relieve trapped water in a structure during a Blitz Attack?
Why is it important to relieve trapped water in a structure during a Blitz Attack?
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What is the primary goal of a defensive attack?
What is the primary goal of a defensive attack?
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What is a key factor in determining the effectiveness of a Blitz Attack?
What is a key factor in determining the effectiveness of a Blitz Attack?
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What is a critical consideration when positioning an aerial apparatus for a Blitz Attack?
What is a critical consideration when positioning an aerial apparatus for a Blitz Attack?
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What is the primary advantage of using a Blitz Attack?
What is the primary advantage of using a Blitz Attack?
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What is a key benefit of using elevated master streams in a Blitz Attack?
What is a key benefit of using elevated master streams in a Blitz Attack?
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When positioning an aerial ladder near a structure, what distance should be considered to define a collapse zone?
When positioning an aerial ladder near a structure, what distance should be considered to define a collapse zone?
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What is a consideration when positioning an aerial ladder near a structure that has been subjected to extensive fire damage?
What is a consideration when positioning an aerial ladder near a structure that has been subjected to extensive fire damage?
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Why is it important to beware of facades or parapet walls when positioning an aerial ladder near a structure?
Why is it important to beware of facades or parapet walls when positioning an aerial ladder near a structure?
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What is a benefit of parking apparatus at the corners of the building rather than directly in front of the building face?
What is a benefit of parking apparatus at the corners of the building rather than directly in front of the building face?
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What is a consideration when operating an aerial ladder near a structure that has been subjected to cold weather?
What is a consideration when operating an aerial ladder near a structure that has been subjected to cold weather?
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What is a method for removing ice accumulation from an aerial ladder?
What is a method for removing ice accumulation from an aerial ladder?
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Why is it important to keep the aerial ladder greased according to the manufacturer's specifications?
Why is it important to keep the aerial ladder greased according to the manufacturer's specifications?
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What is a concern regarding the loading of an aerial ladder during cold weather?
What is a concern regarding the loading of an aerial ladder during cold weather?
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Study Notes
Aerial Device Operation
- It's beneficial to have a spotter while operating an aerial device to warn of potential collisions.
- Operators must be aware of their platform's features that may create blindspots, such as floodlights, bumpers, and lifting eyes.
- Personnel should be secured by a ladder belt or other safety mechanism when operating from the aerial device to prevent being thrown off.
Safe Positioning
- When approaching a target, use low or slow speed options to allow for finer control of the aerial device.
- Confirm that personnel on the platform are ready and access doors are secured before moving the device.
- Shuffle feet when moving away from the apparatus to avoid electrical shock from overhead wires.
Aerial Placement and Scene Safety
- When arriving at a scene, observe the placement of units already on the scene before committing your apparatus.
- Consider the placement and breed of the first-arriving truck and the limitations of your own apparatus.
- Ensure there is room to deploy ground ladders from the rear chute of your apparatus and other aerial units.
- Be aware of the collapse zone and avoid placing the aerial device in a position that exposes it to falling debris.
Warning Signs of Collapse
- Know the warning signs of collapse, including:
- Structural inadequacy or signs of temporary bracing
- Buildings under construction or renovation
- Fire size and location, and conditions on arrival
- Age of building
- Previous fire
- Fire load to structural members
- Fire duration
- Backdraft or explosions
- Involvement of engineered lumber, truss joists, nail plates
- Live load increase as a result of firefighting operations
- Cutting structural members during breaching or venting operations
- Cracks, bulges, or other movement in walls
- Water or smoke pushing through exterior walls
- Unusual noises coming from building or dwelling
- Interior or roof reports of soft or spongy floors
- Ice, snow, or water accumulation on roofs
Operating near Railroad Tracks
- Park apparatus at least 25 feet from a rail right-of-way when operating near railroad tracks.
Positioning and Aerial Use
- After determining alignment, the aerial can be extended to a close proximity over the target, bringing it toward the object in a smooth and controlled manner.
- The angle of inclination must be properly determined for the next step to be successful.
- Extending the ladder well short of the intended target can cause depth perception problems.
- Two methods can help solve depth perception problems:
- Using shadows of the aerial ladder in sunny daytime operations.
- Using floodlights at the tip of the aerial for night and cloudy overcast day operations.
Placing the Aerial
- When placing the aerial, ensure the tips of the shadow and aerial are close to meeting, indicating proximity to the building.
- For night operations, use the floodlights to judge the proper distance for extending the ladder.
- When the aerial is resting in the cradle, ensure at least one floodlight faces down and the other faces outward.
- Lights should always be in the "ON" position to illuminate the face of the building and target area.
Window Access
- When placing the ladder off-center inside a window, consider:
- Leaving enough room for a victim or firefighter to climb over or around the ladder rails.
- Compromising some of the opening, reducing the area the window or fire escape provides for a quick bailout.
Aerial Tower Placement
- Position the platform with the front edge even with or just below the window sill.
- Ensure platform access doors maximize the available opening in front of the window.
- Consider placing the upper railing of the platform even with the window sill for better leverage when lifting unconscious people or guiding people to the window.
Roof Access
- Extend aerial ladders three to six feet over the edge of the roof for:
- Greater visibility for members on the roof to locate the ladder.
- Providing a firm handhold at a normal standing position while mounting or dismounting the ladder.
- Leave space between the aerial and the structure to avoid the aerial resting on the structure.
- Position the platform with approximately half the platform over the edge of the roof, if possible, to allow members to step off to the roof away from the fall hazard of the edge.
Aerial Inspection and Operations
- Set the angle between the ladder pipe and control handle at approximately 130 degrees.
- Secure halyards to the control handle and the tip of the ladder pipe, avoiding passing ropes through the rungs.
- Secure hose to the ladder using three rope hose tools or hose straps: one at the tip, one at the center, and one at the turntable.
Warning Signs of Collapse
- Structural inadequacy or signs of temporary bracing, poor construction, or illegal/non-engineered renovations
- Buildings under construction or renovation
- Fire size and location, and conditions on arrival
- Age of building
- Previous fire
- Fire load to structural members
- Fire duration
- Backdraft or explosions
- Involvement of engineered lumber, truss joists, nail plates
- Live load increase as a result of firefighting operations (e.g., aerial master stream adds at least 500gpm or 2 tons of water per minute)
- Cutting structural members during breaching or venting operations
- Cracks, bulges, or other movement in walls
- Water or smoke pushing through exterior walls
- Unusual noises coming from building or dwelling
- Interior or roof reports of soft or spongy floors
- Ice, snow, or water accumulation on roofs
Operating Near Railroad Tracks
- Park apparatus at least 25 feet from a rail right-of-way
- Ensure wheel chocks are in place and maintain contact between the tires and the road surface
- Periodically extend and retract the aerial to remove ice accumulation
- Keep the aerial ladder greased according to the manufacturer's specifications to aid in removal of ice accumulation
Collapse Zone
- Consider the condition of the fire building and other building-related concerns when positioning the apparatus
- Beware of facades or parapet walls that can fall from the building as fire weakens their attachment points
- Position apparatus within an effective distance of the structure while maintaining protection against a collapse
- The rule of thumb for defining a collapse zone is a distance at least equal to one and one-half times the height of the building
- Parking apparatus at the corners of the building rather than directly in front of the building face provides greater protection
Aerial Use
- Engaging in an interior offensive attack to stop the forward progression of fire while using a master stream is called a Blitz Attack
- Conditions for a Blitz Attack: no interior crews or occupants inside the structure, and the aerial apparatus should be positioned close enough to the structure so the stream can reach the seat of the fire but out of the collapse zone
- During a Blitz Attack, aim the stream at the ceiling to create a broken stream, and channel and relieve trapped water in the structure to facilitate the advancement of interior crews safely
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Description
Learn about safe aerial operations and positioning in the MCFRS Driver Certification Program. Understand the importance of spotting andvisual inspections to avoid collisions and damage.
