Pump Ops Chap 3 Flashcards
What NFPA® standard establishes minimum qualifications for fire apparatus driver/operators?
NFPA® 1002
What is the legal term for a conscious awareness of danger while ignoring consequences?
Reckless Disregard
What is the most common location for fire apparatus collisions?
Intersections
What causes brake fade?
Excessive use of the brakes, which leads to overheating of brake components
What does the High Exhaust System Temperature (HEST) indicator signify?
That the exhaust system is very hot, usually due to active regeneration
What should be done before removing an inlet or discharge cap?
Open the bleeder valve or drain valve between the control valve and the cap to ensure no trapped pressure.
What is the recommended maximum speed for loading large-diameter hose while driving?
5 mph (10 km/h)
What should firefighters never do during hose loading?
Ride on any part of a moving apparatus.
What does NFPA® 1901 require regarding hose restraints?
Positive restraints for all hose to prevent unintentional deployment during normal operations.
What safety procedure must be followed before moving an apparatus?
All personnel must be onboard and wearing seat belts, confirmed verbally.
What is the weight difference between a full and empty 1,000-gallon tank?
8,000 lbs (4,000 kg)
What percentage of collisions involved operators unaware of danger, according to SAE?
0.42
What must driver/operators do during parked regeneration of the DPF?
Keep personnel away from the exhaust outlet and avoid connection to an exhaust extraction system.
What happens if the DEF tank is empty?
Engine speed may be reduced to 5 mph and will require dealer service.
What does the DPF indicator light mean?
The filter is loading with soot and may require regeneration.
What should be done before starting the apparatus?
Ensure the battery is on, parking brake is set, and transmission is in neutral (manual).
What does NFPA® 1500 say about loading hose while driving?
Requires training, at least one safety observer, traffic exclusion, and forward motion only.
What is the purpose of auxiliary braking systems?
To reduce brake fade and lower maintenance costs.
What are the four types of auxiliary braking systems?
Exhaust brake, engine compression brake, transmission output retarder, and electromagnetic retarder.
What does ‘overthrottling’ mean?
Injecting more fuel into a diesel engine than can be burned, leading to inefficiency.
What must be ensured before shutting down the engine?
Allow it to idle for 3–5 minutes to cool, especially after full-load operation.
How much hose is pulled out each second when driving at 5 mph?
7 feet (2 meters)
What is the total stopping distance composed of?
Reaction distance plus braking distance.
What causes a locked wheel skid?
Braking too hard at high speeds and locking the wheels.
What is the most likely place for a collision involving emergency vehicles?
Intersections
What is the minimum visual lead time?
Time needed to safely stop or take evasive action at current speed.
How should mirrors be adjusted?
At the start of each shift and whenever the driving responsibility changes.
What should you do if sight of the spotter is lost while backing?
Stop the vehicle immediately.
What is the definition of torque?
Force that produces or tends to produce a twisting or rotational action.
What is the braking recommendation for descending steep grades?
Use service brakes, auxiliary brakes, and manual gear selection without exceeding engine rpm.
What must be used to detect hydraulic leaks safely?
A piece of wood or cardboard—never bare hands.
What should be done if a high-pressure hydraulic leak is suspected?
Shut down equipment and seek immediate medical help—this is a surgical emergency.
When should DCDL (Driver Controlled Differential Lock) be disengaged?
When road conditions improve or during turning downhill.
What is the risk of overtillering?
Loss of control due to overcorrection in trailer alignment.
What training standard governs vehicle operations?
NFPA® 1451
What are signs of a poorly maintained braking system?
Failure to stop, increased stopping distance, and potential collisions.
What does ESC (Electronic Stability Control) do?
Applies brakes independently to steer the vehicle and reduce engine power when needed.
What is the function of a tiller operator?
To steer the rear trailer for proper ladder placement and turning.
What should you never do with a diesel engine before shutting it down?
Rev the engine—can damage internal components.
What is a confined space turnaround?
A driving exercise testing the ability to turn an apparatus within a restricted area.
What does the brake fade warning relate to?
Loss of braking function from overheated components.
What is the best practice when passing civilian vehicles that fail to yield?
Avoid passing if possible; if necessary, do so on the left and only when safe.
What is NFPA® 1500’s rule on seat belts?
All occupants must be seated and belted before vehicle motion, with limited exceptions.
What causes an acceleration skid?
Applying throttle too quickly, causing drive wheels to lose traction.
What are common driver impairments?
Fatigue, illness, prescription drugs, emotional stress, and substance use.
What must the driver/operator ensure before shutting off engine?
No coolant is trapped, and oil is circulating to avoid heat damage.
What information must a fire apparatus placard contain?
Vehicle height and weight per NFPA® 1901.
What are typical nonemergency driving considerations?
Mirror adjustment, adverse weather, road hazards, and visual lead time.
What can cause a poor vehicle design?
Exceeding GVW, retrofitting surplus chassis, and top-heavy modifications.
What is the main hazard of improperly secured equipment?
Becoming a projectile during a crash, risking serious injury or death.
