BY JONATHON STEED
There are many methods for training firefighters on the uses and operations of tower ladders and aerial ladders. Much of this training involves simply dropping the outriggers, setting the outriggers, and raising the bucket or ladder to a few positions. Considering the variety of uses for these apparatus and the urgency with which they are needed, an operator should be required to undertake much more complex and in-depth training.
First, do not overlook the basics. Before the trainee even sits in the driver's seat, he had better know the location of every tool on the truck, how to use it properly and efficiently, and when to use it. In addition, if one tool won't complete the job, a firefighter should know which alternate tools can also accomplish the task. Often, the apparatus driver is called on to retrieve tools for the crew and to perform odd jobs by himself.
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