BY MIKE NASTA
The apparatus operator is one of the most important positions in the fire department. But does your department do enough to properly train the firefighters who are assigned to drive apparatus or could be in the future? Many apparatus operators do not understand the position’s tremendous responsibilities. Do they understand the effects of chassis dynamics, weight distribution, the center of gravity, and other physical forces on driving and handling?
Most departments spend a lot of time and effort to train operators in pumping water or raising aerial devices, but these extremely important skills are not the only areas in which drivers need to be proficient. Driving itself sometimes takes a backseat to pump operations and aerial operations. Considering the alarming rise in apparatus accidents, properly training our operators to consider the forces below is essential for safety.
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