ADO-A Chapter 05

Aerial Apparatus
Driver/Operator Handbook
2nd Edition
Chapter 5 — Driving Aerial
Apparatus

Learning Objective 1
Describe the driving regulations of the
first apparatus driver/operator.
5–2
Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator

• Governed by federal laws, state or
provincial motor vehicle codes, city
ordinances, NFPA®
standards, and
departmental policies
• Subject to any statute, rule, regulation,
or ordinance that governs any vehicle
operator
Driver/Operator
Driving Regulations
5–3

• Obey all traffic signals and rules when
returning to quarters.
• Use courteous and professional driving
style while driving in public.
• Most driving regulations pertain to dry,
clear roads during daylight conditions.
Driver/Operator Guidelines
5–4

• Adjust speed to compensate for
conditions that make normal emergency
vehicle operation more hazardous.
• Stop emergency vehicles for school
buses that are flashing signal lights.
Driver/Operator Guidelines
5–5

Discuss starting and driving fire service
apparatus.
5–6

• Disconnect all
ground shore lines.
• Turn on the vehicle
battery or batteries.
Guidelines for
Starting the Vehicle
(Continued)
5–7

• (Manual shift transmission) Start engine
with transmission in Neutral (N) and
vehicle’s parking brake set.
– Turn on ignition switches.
– Press down on clutch pedal.
– Operate starter control.
Guidelines for
(Continued)
5–8

• (Automatic transmission) Start engine
with transmission in Neutral (N) or Park
(P) with parking brake set.
– Turn on ignition switches.
– Start apparatus engine using starter
controls.
Guidelines for
(Continued)
5–9

• Make sure engine
instruments move
into normal operating
ranges on gauges.
• Adjust seat first and
then mirrors and
steering column.
Guidelines for
5–10

Describe driving a manual transmission
apparatus.
5–11

• Depress service brake pedal with right
foot and release parking brake.
• Place gear shifter into low gear.
• Release clutch slowly when starting
from standstill.
Driving Manual Transmission
(Continued)
5–12

• Keep in low gear until proper speed or
rpms are reached for shifting.
• Keep transmission in low gear until
apparatus is clear of station and
driver/operator has an unobstructed
view of street and traffic conditions.
Driving Manual Transmission
5–13

• Never attempt to start apparatus
moving while it is in high gear.
• Abrupt operation of clutch may cause
engine to stall.
• Avoid vehicle roll back before engaging
clutch.
• When shifting gears, clutch should be
fully disengaged.
Operating the Clutch
5–14

• Climbing a hill
• Entering intersections on sharp curves
• Turning corners
• Over rough and rugged train
• Starting down hill
Using Lower Gears
5–15

Describe driving an automatic
transmission apparatus.
5–16

• Depress interlock on shifter and move it
to appropriate gear selection.
• Pressure placed upon accelerator
influences automatic shifting.
• Manually select particular gear when
operating at slow speed or driving up or
down a steep hill.
Driving Automatic Transmission
5–17

Discuss nonemergency traveling in a
fire apparatus.
5–18

• Attempt to maintain engine rpm control
through correct throttling.
• Accelerate vehicle gradually once
apparatus is moving.
• Operate engine within its power curve.
Guidelines for Traveling
(Nonemergency)
(Continued)
5–19

• Do not try to reach rated speed in low
gears.
• Avoid overthrottling which results in
lugging the engine.
• Stay in highest gear that allows
apparatus to keep up with traffic.
(Nonemergency)
(Continued)
5–20

• Downshift standard transmissions to
avoid stalls and prevent lugging.
• Ascending a steep grade
• Select progressively lower gears until
apparatus can climb the hill easily.
(Nonemergency)
5–21

• Avoid allowing engine to overspeed.
• Choose a gear that allows engine to
operate at 200 or 300 rpm lower than
maximum recommended rpm.
Maximum Engine RPM
5–22

Points of Potential
Contact of Aerial Apparatus
5–23

Discuss stopping, idling, and shutting
down the apparatus.
5–24

• Perform smoothly so apparatus will
come to an even stop.
• Before braking
– Consider weight
– Consider condition of brakes, tires, and
road surface
Stopping the Apparatus
5–25

• Fitted on some apparatus
• Assist in braking
• Provide slowing action
• Save wear on service brake
components
• Engine manages on hills and slippery
roads easier
Retarding Devices
5–26

DISCUSSION QUESTION
Is it SOP in your department to shut
down the engine rather than leave it
idling for long periods of time? Why
or why not?
5–27

• Long idling periods
• If necessary to idle – Set apparatus to
idle at 900 to 1,100 rpm
Engine Idling
5–28

• Never deactivate engine while
apparatus is in motion.
• Never deactivate immediately after a full
load operation or when engine is
overheated.
• Idle for 3 to 5 minutes before shutting
down.
Engine Shutdown
5–29

• Immediate increase of engine
temperature
• Oil film “burning” on hot surfaces
• Damage to heads and exhaust
manifolds
• Possible damage to turbocharger
Shutting Down
Without Cooldown Period
5–30

• Place transmission in Park (P) or
Neutral (N).
• Set parking brake.
• Allow engine to idle and cool down.
• Shut off engine.
• Turn battery switch(es) off.
• Reconnect ground shore lines.
Engine Shutdown Procedures
5–31

Start, idle, and shut down a fire service
apparatus.
Objective 7 is measured in Skill Sheet 5-1.
5–32

Drive a fire service apparatus.
5–33

Discuss braking and reaction times.
5–34

Identify factors that influence the
driver/operator’s ability to stop the
apparatus.
5–35

Braking and Reaction Times
5–36

• Condition and slope of driving surface
• Speed of travel
• Weight of vehicle
• Type and condition of vehicle’s tires
and braking system
Factors Influencing
Ability to Stop
5–37

• Momentum (p) is the velocity (v) of the
vehicle multiplied by its mass (m)
• p = vm
• As object’s mass or velocity increases,
it gains momentum and takes longer to
slow down or to stop
Forward Momentum
5–38

Discuss skids and the guidelines for
controlling skids.
5–39

• Driving too fast for road conditions
• Weight shifts of heavy apparatus
• Failing to anticipate obstacles
• Improper use of auxiliary braking
devices
• Improper tire maintenance
Common Causes of Skids
5–40

• Minimizes chance of skid
• Works using digital technology
• Removes need to pump brake pedal
• Causes momentary delay
(approximately 0.4 seconds)
Antilock Braking System (ABS)
5–41

• Release the brakes, allowing wheels to
rotate freely.
• Turn steering wheel so front wheels
face direction of skid.
• Standard transmission, do not engage
clutch.
• Once skid is controllable, gradually
apply power to wheels.
Correcting Skids
5–42

• May be gained at facilities having skid
pads
• May be gained through use of new
system that mounts to apparatus
• Should always be performed at slow
speeds
Skid Practice
(Continued)
5–43

Skid Practice
5–44

Discuss the characteristics of auxiliary
braking systems.
5–45

• Front brake limiting valve
• Electromagnetic
braking systems
• Automatic
traction control
Auxiliary Braking Systems
5–46

Describe weight transfer.
5–47

• Law of inertia: “objects in motion tend to
remain in motion; objects at rest tend to
remain at rest unless acted upon by an
outside force”
• Takes place whenever a vehicle
undergoes a change in speed or
direction
Weight Transfer
(Continued)
5–48

• Can contribute to skidding or possible
rollover
• Improperly baffled water tanks
• Driver/operator
– Use only as much steering as needed
– Steer smoothly and fluidly
– Maintain slow speed to prevent severe
weight transfer
Weight Transfer
5–49

Discuss the use of private vehicles.
5–50

• Most states and province require
private vehicles to pull to the right, stop,
and remain at a standstill until
emergency traffic has passed.
• Driver/operators must be aware that not
everyone hears warning devices and
many do not know how to plan an
immediate reaction.
Private Vehicles
5–51

Discuss collisions at intersections.
5–52

• Most likely place for collisions involving
emergency vehicles
• Driver/operators
– Slow down for intersections
– STOP when faced with a red light or stop
sign
– Anticipate worst possible situation
Collisions at Intersections
(Continued)
5–53

• No signals
• Red traffic signal or stop sign
• Driving into opposing lane of traffic
Collisions at Intersections
5–54

Opposing Lane of Traffic
5–55

Identify safe passing procedures.
5–56

• Always travel in innermost lane on
multilane roads.
• Avoid passing vehicles on right sides.
• Be certain that opposing lanes of traffic
are clear of oncoming traffic.
• Avoid passing other emergency
vehicles.
Passing Other Vehicles
5–57

Discuss driving in adverse weather.
5–58

• Recognize dangers of rain, snow, ice,
and mud
• Adjust speed
• Decrease speed gradually
• Slow down while approaching curves
• Keep off low or soft shoulders
Driving in Adverse Weather
(Continued)
5–59

• Avoid sudden turns
• Recognize slippery areas
• Increase following distance dramatically
Driving in Adverse Weather
5–60

• Reduce stopping distance and
considerably increase traction
• Consist of short lengths of chain on a
rotating hub
• Hubs swing down into place
• Lose effectiveness in snow deeper than
3 to 6 inches (76 mm to 152 mm)
Snow Tires or Chains
5–61

Describe warning devices and discuss
clearing traffic.
5–62

DISCUSSION QUESTION
What is the surest way to catch a
driver’s attention?
5–63

• Civilian drivers respond better to
sounds that frequently change pitch.
• Audible devices can be “outrun” by
apparatus at speeds above 50 mph (80
km/h).
• Warning devices are of no value if not
used.
Warning Devices
and Clearing Traffic
(Continued)
5–64

• Should be limited to true emergency
response situations
• Turn off on limited-access highways
and turnpikes
• Emergency vehicles responding on
same route should travel at least 300 to
500 feet (90 m to 150 m) apart.
Warning Devices
(Continued)
5–65

DISCUSSION QUESTION
Why is it important for multiple
emergency vehicles to maintain an
appropriate distance from one
another?
5–66

• Headlights should be turned on while
responding.
• May be advisable to turn off some
warning lights on apparatus once in
position
Warning Devices
(Continued)
5–67

Warning Devices
5–68

Identify traffic control devices.
5–69

• Types of systems
• Not substitutes for using proper
defensive driving techniques
Traffic Control Devices
5–70

Types of Traffic Control
Devices
(Continued)
5–71

Devices
(Continued)
5–72

Devices
(Continued)
5–73

Discuss the tiller operator.
5–74

• Must be qualified
• Must be familiar with duties assigned to
all truck company personnel
• Driving assignments
Tiller Operator
5–75

• Distance of trailer from base of building
involved
• Angle of trailer placement
• Proper overhead clearance
• Side and rear obstructions
• Grades and slopes of working area
Factors Affecting
Tiller Operators
5–76

Describe tiller operator training.
5–77

• Use good signal practices.
• ALWAYS trail in-line on a straightaway.
• Bring trailer quickly into line after
completion of turn.
• Observe trailer overhang on turns.
Operator Training
(Continued)
5–78

• Operate tiller section in a smooth and
safe manner.
• Avoid overtillering.
• Keep both hands on the wheel and give
undivided attention to the job.
Operator Training
5–79

• Perform several checks before giving
signal to proceed
• Center trailer in doorway when leaving
Leaving the Fire Station
5–80

• Keep trailer wheels parallel with frame
of trailer and in direct line with tractor.
• When turning keep trailer in line with
tractor as much as possible.
Traveling Forward
(Continued)
5–81

DISCUSSION QUESTION
Where on the tiller steering wheel
should the hands be placed when
moving forward?
5–82

Traveling Forward
5–83

• Be alert to conditions on other streets.
• Anticipate hazardous situations.
• Pay attention to trucks, buses, and
other large vehicles.
• Keep outlook for any overhanging
obstructions.
Tiller Operator
Driving Guidelines
5–84

• Exercise caution and maintain a
constant awareness of vehicles on each
side and to rear of apparatus.
• Methods of negotiating turns
Turning at Intersections
5–85

• Requires opposite maneuvers of those
used to steer front wheels
• Requires communication between
driver and tiller operator
• Must be performed smoothly and slowly
• Pay attention to position of tractor as
well as clearance on both sides and
rear
Backing Maneuvers
(Continued)
5–86

DISCUSSION QUESTION
Where on the tiller steering wheel
should the hands be placed when
backing?
5–87

Backing Maneuvers
5–88

Describe the driving exercises and
evaluation methods of the
driver/operator.
5–89

• Driving regulations, laws, and fire
department SOPs for emergency and
nonemergency operations
• Pump operations and aerial ladder
operations
• Hydraulic calculations
Written Test Questions
5–90

• NFPA®
Code of Federal Regulations
(CFR)
• NFPA®
1002
Practical Driving
Exercise Sources
5–91

DISCUSSION QUESTION
What practical driving exercises are
used for testing in your jurisdiction?
5–92

Alley Dock
5–93

Apparatus Bay
Parking Maneuver
5–94

Serpentine Course
5–95

Confined Space Turnaround
5–96

Diminishing Clearance
5–97

Straight-Line Drive
5–98

Lane Change
5–99

Straight-In Parking
5–100

Crossover Backing
5–101

Identify the minimum road tests
necessary to certify the driver/operator.
5–102

• Road tests that lead to certification
should include the applicable elements
from NFPA®
1002.
Road Tests
5–103

Perform various driving exercises.
5–104

Perform various road test in an aerial
apparatus.
5–105

Summary
• Driver/operator candidates should be
able to demonstrate good driving habits
and competent performance, as well as
a professional attitude.
• In addition, they must be familiar with
state and provincial laws, local
ordinances, and all departmental SOPs
on emergency vehicle operation. (Continued)
5–106

• Driver/operator candidates must
practice with their assigned apparatus
under controlled conditions until the
required level of skill is achieved.
Summary
5–107

Review Questions
1. What is the first step to starting
an aerial apparatus?
2. What guidelines should be
observed by a driver/operator while
operating the clutch in a manual
transmission vehicle?
(Continued)
5–108

Review Questions
3. Why do some fire agencies
recommend using the automatic
shifter?
4. What should be taken into
consideration before braking?
5. What is the procedure for shutting
down an aerial apparatus?
(Continued)
5–109

6. How should a driver/operator react
when an apparatus that is not
equipped with an antilock braking
system goes into a skid?
7. What is weight transfer?
Review Questions
5–110

8. Why should fire apparatus
driver/operators not rely too heavily
on warning devices?
9. Of what factors should tiller
operators be particularly aware?
10. The written exam for aerial
apparatus driver/operators may
include questions pertaining to what
areas?
Review Questions
5–111

ADO-A Chapter 05

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ADO-A Chapter 05