More Study Guide Flashcards
1
Q
What is the main purpose of the fire department pumper?
A
To provide adequate water pressure for effective fire streams.
2
Q
What are the common sources of water for a fire pumper?
A
Tank, hydrant, or body of water.
3
Q
What does NFPA 1901 specify for pumper design?
A
Requirements for pumper design, including minimum pump capacity and water tank size.
4
Q
What is the minimum pump capacity for a pumper per NFPA 1901?
A
750 GPM, increasing in 250 GPM increments.
5
Q
What is the minimum water tank size for a pumper per NFPA 1901?
A
300 gallons.
6
Q
What is the common pump capacity for most fire pumps?
A
2000 GPM or less, though some exceed 2000 GPM.
7
Q
What components must a fire pumper be equipped with?
A
Intake and discharge connections, pump controls and gauges, various hose sizes and types.
8
Q
What portable equipment must pumpers carry per NFPA?
A
Ground ladders, SCBA, forcible entry tools, salvage tools, water tank, EMS equipment.
9
Q
What is a rescue pumper?
A
Combines pumper with rescue functions, with more compartment space and extrication equipment.
10
Q
What are Class A and Class B foams used for?
A
Class A for ordinary combustibles, Class B for flammable and combustible liquids or gases.
11
Q
What are the types of foam proportioning systems on foam pumpers?
A
Around the pump, direct injection, balanced pressure foam proportioning system, compressed air foam systems (CAFS).
12
Q
What is a characteristic of balanced pressure foam proportioning systems?
A
Reliability of foam at large flows.
13
Q
What is the typical pump capacity range for foam pumpers?
A
750-3000 GPM.
14
Q
What is the typical foam tank size on industrial foam pumpers?
A
Often 500 gallons.
15
Q
What feature do foam pumpers often have for large flows?
A
Large turret capable of flowing the pump’s capacity.
16
Q
What is a common Class A foam system on municipal pumpers?
A
Compressed Air Foam System (CAFS), available on some discharges.
17
Q
How do municipal foam proportioning systems compare to industrial ones?
A
They are scaled-down versions of industrial fire pumper foam systems.
18
Q
What is the typical foam tank size for municipal foam pumpers?
A
20-100 gallons, fillable with 5-gallon buckets.
19
Q
What defines an initial attack apparatus?
A
Smaller apparatus like mini or midi pumpers designed for rapid response.
20
Q
What is a mini pumper?
A
Small apparatus with a pump capacity of less than 500 GPM.
21
Q
What is a midi pumper?
A
Apparatus with a pump capacity between mini and standard pumpers, usually not greater than 1000 GPM.
22
Q
What does NFPA 1901 regulate for mobile water supply apparatus?
A
Minimum tank capacity and operational requirements.
23
Q
What is the minimum tank capacity for mobile water supply apparatus?
A
1000 gallons.
24
Q
What factors determine the capacity of mobile water supply apparatus?
A
Terrain, bridge and weight limits, monetary constraints, interoperability.
25
What are the two functions of mobile water supply apparatus?
Mobile shuttle or nurse tender (reservoir).
26
What is required for mobile water supply apparatus to be NIMS compliant?
An onboard or portable pump.
27
What are characteristics of wildland apparatus?
Lightweight, maneuverable, often mounted on one-ton or larger all-wheel-drive chassis.
28
What is the typical tank and pump capacity for wildland apparatus?
500 gallons or less, though some have 1000-gallon tanks and GPM.
29
What is a common feature of wildland apparatus?
Pump and roll capability.
30
What does NFPA 1500 prohibit on wildland apparatus?
Riding on the outside of the apparatus.
31
What types of hose do wildland apparatus carry?
Booster or forestry hose.
32
What foam systems are common on wildland apparatus?
CAFS or other foam systems.
33
What does NFPA 1906 cover?
Standards for wildland firefighting apparatus.
34
What are wildland apparatus commonly called?
Brush trucks, bush breakers, or booster apparatus.
35
What is the primary function of Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) apparatus?
Immediate suppression of flammable liquid fires and vapor suppression from fuel spills.
36
What standard governs ARFF apparatus?
NFPA 414, Standard for Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Apparatus.
37
What are the three categories of ARFF apparatus?
Major Firefighting Apparatus, Rapid Intervention, Combined Agent.
38
What can ARFF apparatus respond to outside airports?
Municipal large-scale flammable spills.
39
What is the pump capacity of fire boats?
Up to 50,000 GPM.
40
What is the capacity of master streams on fire boats?
Up to 10,000 GPM.
41
What role can fire boats play in ground operations?
Relay pump to ground units.
42
What is a key feature of aerial apparatus equipped with fire pumps?
Ability to supply its own master streams.
43
How should aerial apparatus with pumps be positioned?
With consideration of the reach of the aerial device.
44
What is a quint apparatus?
Has five functions: aerial, ground ladders, hose, tank, and pump.
45
What are the minimum specifications for a quint’s pump and tank?
1000 GPM pump and 350-gallon tank.
46
What is the purpose of inverters on fire apparatus?
Convert 12 or 24V to 120V for small power needs, like floodlights, almost noiseless.
47
What are portable generators used for?
Provide up to 5000 watts for remote power needs.
48
What powers apparatus-mounted generators?
Gas, diesel, or hydraulic, with capacities up to 12,000 watts (specialized units up to 50,000 watts).
49
What are the types of scene lighting on apparatus?
Portable (300-1000 watts) or fixed banks (500-1500 watts per light, powered by electric, pneumatic, or hydraulic systems).
50
How is power distributed on fire apparatus?
Using 12-gauge, 3-wire cords with 600V insulation and twist-and-lock connections for abrasion protection.
51
What is the role of junction boxes in power distribution?
Supply power to several connections from one source.
52
What types of rescue tools are found on pumping apparatus?
Extrication tools, combo spreader cutters, rams (hydraulic, compressed air, or PTO powered).
53
What safety policy must be in place for apparatus maintenance?
Mandate chocking of wheels.
54
Who should be excluded from apparatus maintenance areas?
Personnel not engaged in maintenance or repair activities.
55
Why must apparatus always be ready to respond?
To handle any call volume, no matter how low.
56
What are PM and RM checks?
Proactive measures to ensure apparatus readiness (Preventive Maintenance and Routine Maintenance).
57
What does NFPA 1002 require of driver/operators for maintenance?
Skills in performing certain maintenance tasks.
58
What does maintenance mean for fire apparatus?
Keeping apparatus in a state of usefulness or readiness.
59
What does repair mean for fire apparatus?
Restoring the apparatus to a functional state.
60
What is the goal of preventive maintenance (PM)?
To eliminate unexpected or catastrophic failure.
61
Who performs basic PM tasks on apparatus?
Some by driver/operators, others by mechanics.
62
What does NFPA 1071 cover?
Standard for Emergency Vehicle Technician Professional Qualifications.
63
What systems must driver/operators test per NFPA 1002?
Batteries, brakes, coolant, electrical systems, fuel systems, hydraulic fluids, oil, tires, steering, belts, tools, appliances, equipment.
64
What determines a systematic apparatus maintenance program?
SOPs that comply with NFPA standards, specifying procedures, timing, responsibilities, reporting, and documentation.
65
Who assigns maintenance and repair tasks in a department?
The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
66
What should an AHJ’s inspection and maintenance policy include?
Details on documenting and transmitting inspection results to administration.
67
What ensures uniform inspections by driver/operators?
An inspection checklist developed by the AHJ.
68
What happens if apparatus meet NFPA 1911 Out-of-Service criteria?
Immediate action must be taken.
69
What are the functions of maintenance and inspection records?
Support warranty claims, accident investigations, and justify new purchases.
70
Why is keeping the apparatus body clean important?
Promotes longer life and makes inspections easier.
71
Why should the engine compartment be kept clean?
Prevents failures of linkages, fuel injectors, and controls.
72
What should be checked on the apparatus underside?
Suspension, brakes, spring shackles, driveline, and steering for easier visualization.
73
What risk does overcleaning with steam or pressure washing pose?
May remove lubrication from chassis, engine, pump, or underbody, especially with degreasers.
74
What should be done after heavy cleaning of apparatus?
Lubricate components as needed.
75
How should apparatus be washed in the first 6 months?
Frequently with cold water to harden paint, using a garden hose without a nozzle.
76
What is the recommended washing process for apparatus?
Rinse loose dirt, wash top-down before dirt dries, dry with chamois or squeegee, avoid hot water or hot surfaces.
77
How should glass be cleaned on apparatus?
With warm soapy water or commercial glass cleaner, using paper towels or clean cloth rags, not contaminated shop towels.
78
When should apparatus be waxed?
After six months, following manufacturer instructions.
79
What should guide apparatus inspection procedures?
SOPs, NFPA standards, and manufacturer recommendations.
80
What is the walk-around method for apparatus inspection?
Circle the apparatus starting at one point, checking for issues.
81
What are the two types of apparatus inspections?
Operational readiness and pre-trip road worthiness.
82
What should a driver/operator do in the cab during inspection?
Start the apparatus and perform a functional check of systems.
83
What should be reviewed before inspecting apparatus?
Previous inspection reports.
84
What should be observed when approaching apparatus for inspection?
Readily apparent problems like body damage, severe lean, or leaks in the parking area.
85
Why should apparatus be parked outside for functional tests?
To ensure proper ventilation.
86
What should be checked during an exterior apparatus inspection?
Damage, cleanliness, defects, functionality, leaks, missing items, lights, audible warning devices, hose, and equipment.
87
How should tires be checked during inspection?
For type, condition, and inflation; radial and bias ply tires cannot be mixed.
88
What does NFPA 1911 require for tire replacement?
Tires must be replaced every 7 years, regardless of condition.
89
What information must a driver/operator understand about tires?
All information on the tire sidewall, including type, speed rating, and GAWR.
90
What is the purpose of an electrical load management system?
Prevents overload of the vehicle’s electrical generation system.
91
What components does a load management system include?
Load sequencer (staggers device startup) and load monitor (sheds less critical equipment during overload).
92
What is load shedding in an electrical load management system?
Shutting down less important equipment to prevent overload.
93
How is clutch pedal free play defined?
Pedal travel before the throw-out bearing contacts the clutch release fingers.
94
Who should adjust clutch free play?
A mechanic, not the driver/operator.
95
How much play is allowed in the steering system?
Steering wheel should not move more than 10 degrees (about 2 inches on a 20-inch wheel) without moving the wheels.
96
What is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)?
Maximum weight at which a vehicle can be safely operated.
97
What is curb weight?
Weight of an empty fire apparatus.
98
What is the maximum side-to-side weight variation per NFPA 1901 and 1911?
Should not exceed 7 percent.
99
Why are brake inspections critical?
Faulty brakes have caused serious fire apparatus collisions.
100
What types of brakes do modern large apparatus typically have?
Air brakes with ABS (most since 1990).
101
What is the role of an air pressure protection valve in air brake systems?
Prevents non-essential devices from operating if reservoir pressure drops below 80 PSI.
102
How are brake tests conducted?
Annually per NFPA 1911, evaluating braking ability in motion and parking brake when stopped.
103
What should a driver/operator do if brakes fail tests?
Take the apparatus out of service until repaired by a certified mechanic.
104
When should the engine compartment be inspected?
After exterior, interior, and brake tests, with the engine off (or before starting, depending on preference).
105
When should fluid checks be performed?
With the engine off, except for transmission fluid.
106
Why should driver/operators not rely solely on gauges?
To ensure accuracy and catch issues early.
107
How should tilt cabs be inspected?
Check for binding, ensure safety latch engages, verify cab latches for secure mounting, and look for metal shavings.
108
How often should cabs be lifted for inspection?
Weekly, to inspect the engine compartment.
109
What should be checked in the exhaust system?
Cracks, leaks, insulation, flex pipes, and joints, especially in 2007+ engines with DPF due to high regen temps.
110
What is the role of a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)?
Traps particulates and undergoes periodic regeneration.
111
What is Selective Catalyst Reductant (SCR)?
An after-treatment system using DEF, required in 2010+ vehicles.
112
How does chassis lubrication depend on manufacturer recommendations?
Requires proper grade, amount, and method; some apparatus have auto-lube systems.
113
How should vehicle batteries be maintained?
Check connections for grease or terminal protection; older batteries may need distilled water.
114
Why is hydrogen gas from batteries a concern?
It is explosive, requiring caution during maintenance.
115
What does IFSTA recommend for post-trip inspections?
Use the same procedure as pre-trip inspections.
116
How often are fire pumps tested?
At regularly scheduled intervals to compare performance to standards.
117
Why are fire pumps inspected regularly?
To identify deficiencies or failures in the pump and other equipment.
118
What should be done after drafting operations?
Ensure piping is clean, clear, and flushed.
119
What is the driver/operator’s role after maintenance?
Perform a post-maintenance inspection to ensure work meets manufacturer guidelines and AHJ standards.
120
What must driver/operators ensure before moving apparatus?
All members onboard are seat-belted.
121
How many firefighters were killed in 2010 responding or returning from incidents
per USFA?
122
What does NFPA 1002 establish for driver/operators?
Minimum qualifications for fire apparatus driver/operators.
123
What additional standard applies to aerial apparatus driver/operators?
NFPA 1001, Standard for Firefighter Professional Qualifications.
124
What qualities should driver/operator candidates have?
Experience, knowledge, maturity, sense of responsibility, mental aptitude.
125
What prerequisite course must driver/operator candidates complete?
Firefighter 1 or equivalent.
126
What training programs should departments have for driver/operators?
Programs to review and refresh skills and introduce new concepts.
127
What skills should driver/operators possess?
Reading, computer, writing, mathematical skills, physical fitness, visual acuity, adequate hearing.
128
What does NFPA 1500 require for driver/operators?
Medical evaluations to establish fitness for duty.
129
What does NFPA 1582 provide?
Guidelines for vision and hearing frequencies for driver/operators.
130
Who establishes basic driver licensing requirements in the USA?
Federal Department of Transportation (DOT), with states able to alter requirements.
131
Are driver/operators subject to traffic regulations under non-emergency conditions?
Yes, unless specifically exempt.
132
What exemptions may apply to emergency vehicles during response?
Speed limits, direction of travel, turns, parking, if using audible and visible warning devices.
133
Can driver/operators ignore school bus stop signals?
No, they must stop when red lights indicate loading or unloading.
134
What is negligence in the context of driving fire apparatus?
Gross violation of laws, policies, or ordinances, potentially leading to civil or criminal prosecution.
135
What is an example of reckless negligence when driving?
Driving under the influence of alcohol.
136
What is the driver/operator’s most important responsibility?
To operate the apparatus safely during routine and emergency driving.
137
Where do most fire apparatus collisions occur?
At intersections.
138
How can driver/operators establish situational awareness?
Train and practice with the apparatus to become familiar with its operation and roadways.
139
What happens if a collision occurs en route to an emergency?
The apparatus must remain at the scene to treat injuries, document damage, and await police.
140
What are the seven basic causes of fire apparatus collisions?
1. Improper backing, 2. Reckless driving, 3. Excessive speed, 4. Lack of driving skill/experience, 5. Overloading/misuse, 6. Mechanical failure, 7. Driver/operator personal readiness.
141
Why are backing accidents significant?
They account for a large percentage of damage repair costs and can cause injuries or fatalities.
142
What actions are considered reckless when driving fire apparatus?
Excessive speed, running off pavement, distractions (e.g., texting), ignoring weight limits, tailgating, disobeying traffic rules, failing to yield, panicking.
143
What is brake fade?
Overheated brake components losing stopping ability.
144
What contributes to lack of driving skills?
Overconfidence, inability to recognize danger, false security, misunderstanding apparatus capabilities, insufficient training.
145
What did a Society of Automotive Engineers study find about collisions?
In 42% of collisions, the driver/operator was unaware of a problem until too late to correct.
146
How does tank water level affect apparatus safety?
Partially filled tanks (not properly baffled) can be more dangerous than full or empty tanks.
147
Why do manufacturers recommend full or empty tanks?
For safety, to prevent instability from water movement.
148
What can cause mechanical failure during travel?
Poor maintenance, especially of braking systems, leading to collisions.
149
What should be done if a driver/operator is impaired?
Advise them to seek assistance and notify a superior officer.
150
What are causes of driver/operator impairment?
Substance abuse, prescription drugs, personal issues (e.g., divorce, illness), fatigue.
151
What is required by SOPs for firefighters boarding apparatus?
Don protective gear (except helmets) before boarding, per NFPA 1500.
152
What do NFPA 1901 and 1500 require for passengers?
All passengers must wear seat belts before the apparatus moves.
153
What must be included in SOPs for hose loading while moving?
Written procedures, assigning a safety observer, driving forward at 5 mph or less, no standing on moving parts.
154
What diesel particulate items should driver/operators be familiar with?
High exhaust temperature sensor, DPF indicator, manual regeneration switch, regeneration inhibit switch.
155
Why should an engine cool before shutdown?
To prevent increased temperature, oil burning, damage to heads, exhaust manifolds, or turbocharger.
156
What should a driver/operator consider when positioning apparatus?
Apply size-up skills for the safest and most advantageous use of apparatus features.
157
What is the fire department’s primary function on the fireground?
Provide water directly for fire streams or support other pumpers/aerial apparatus.
158
How should a pumper be positioned when fire is evident?
In a safe position offering the best tactical advantage, with an exit route.
159
What should be considered when parking for investigation mode?
Pull past the building front to view three sides, ensuring access for personnel and equipment.
160
How should apparatus be positioned for rescue situations?
To facilitate efficient deployment of ground ladders or aerial devices.
161
How should apparatus be positioned to protect exposures?
To deploy fire streams effectively, avoiding areas with high radiant heat or falling debris.
162
What should be done in areas of limited access?
First-arriving pumper should lay its own supply line.
163
Where should supply lines be laid?
In accessible locations for later-arriving apparatus.
164
When can a pumper’s onboard tank be used?
Only after confirming the fire’s location and extent.
165
Why position apparatus upwind of a fire?
To reduce exposure to the driver/operator.
166
Why position uphill for hazardous liquid incidents?
To prevent hazardous liquids from flowing under the apparatus.
167
Why position downhill for wildland fires?
Wildland fires move uphill faster than on flat or downhill terrain.
168
How should lanes be blocked during roadway responses?
Block lanes where firefighters operate, plus an additional lane for a safety zone.
169
Where should LDH supply hose be laid?
To the edge of the street to avoid obstructing other apparatus.
170
What is the collapse zone for a building?
At least 1.5 times the building’s height.
171
Why are building corners advantageous for positioning?
They are generally safer in case of collapse, especially for aerial apparatus.
172
What does pre-incident planning help identify?
Buildings with high collapse potential, e.g., those with reinforcement rods, bulging walls, or cracks.
173
What hazards should be considered when positioning apparatus?
Power lines, falling glass, and debris, especially within 200 feet of a high-rise fire.
