Pumping Apparatus Driver/Operator Handbook Definitions Flashcards
Batch mixing
Production of foam solution by adding an appropriate amount of foam concentrate to a water tank before application; the resulting solution must be used or discarded following the incident
Bed Ladder Pipe
Nontelescoping section of pipe, usually 3 or 3 1/2 inches (77 or 90 mm) in diameter, attached to the underside of the bed section of the aerial ladder for the purpose of deploying an elevated master stream
Biodegradable
Capable of being broken down into innocuous products by the actions of living things, such as microorganisms
Bleed
Process of releasing a liquid or gas under pressure, such as releasing air from the regulator or cylinder of a self-contained breathing apparatus; or allowing air to escape from a hoseline before or during operations
Blitz Attack
Attack a fire aggressively from the exterior with a large diameter (2 1/2 inch [65mm] of larger) fire stream
Body Substance Isolation (BSI)
Comprehensive method of infection control in which every patient is assumed to be infected; personal protective equipment is worn to prevent exposure to bodily fluids and bloodborne and airborne pathogens
Box Stabilizer
2-piece aerial apparatus stabilization device consisting of an extension arm that extends directly out from the vehicle and a lifting jack that extends from the end of the extension arm to the ground
Braking Distance
Distance the vehicle travels from the time the brakes are applied until it comes to a complete stop
Burnback Resistance
Ability of a foam blanket to resist direct flame impingement such as in a partially extinguished petroleum fire
Cavitation
Condition in which vacuum pockets form, due to localized regions of low pressure at the vanes in the impeller of a centrifugal pump causing vibrations, loss of efficiency, and possibly damage to the impeller
Centrifugal Pump
Pump with one or more impellers that rotate and utilize centrifugal force to more the water. Most modern fire pumps are of this type
Chassis Lubrication
Applying grease and other lubricants to specific parts of a chassis to reduce wear, noise, and binding
Check Valves
Automatic valve that permits liquid flow in only one direction. For example, the inline valve that prevents water from flowing into a foam concentrate container when the nozzle is turned OFF or there is a kink in the hoseline
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
term for several diseases that result in obstructive problems in the airways
Circle or Walk-Around Method
Inspection method in which the driver or inspector starts at one point of the apparatus and continues in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction inspecting the entire apparatus
Cistern
Water storage receptacle that is usually underground and may be supplied by a well or rainwater runoff
Class A Foam Concentrate
Foam specially designed for use on Class A combustibles. Class A foams, hydrocarbon-based surfactants are essentially welting agents that reduce the surface tension of water and allow it to soak into combustible materials more easily then plain water. Class A foams are becoming increasingly popular for use in wildland and structural fire fighting
Class B Foam Concentrate
Foam fire suppression agent designed for use on ignited or unignited class B flammable or combustible liquids
Cold Zone
Safe area outside of the warm zone, where equipment and personnel are not expected to become contaminated and special protective clothing is not required; the incident command post and other support functions are typically located in this zone
Commercial Drivers’ License (CDL)
A driver’s license that is issued to individuals who demonstrate competence inspecting and driving vehicles with a gross vehicle rating of 26,001 pounds or more
Battalion
Fire department organizational subdivision consisting of several fire service companies in a designated geographical area. A battalion is usually the first organizational level above individual companies or stations
Base
Location at which the primary incident management logistics functions are coordinated and administered; the incident command post may be co-located with the base. There is only one base per incident
Back Flushing
Cleaning a fire pump or piping by flowing water through it in the opposite direction or normal flow
Atypically Stressful Event
Term used in National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards to describe incidents that have a likelihood of causing critical incident stress
Articulating Aerial Platform
Aerial device that consists of two or more booms that are attached with hinges and operate in a folding manner. A passenger-carrying platform is attached to the working end of the device
Around-The-Pump Proportioner
Apparatus-mounted foam proportioner in which a small quantity of water is diverted from the apparatus pump through an inline proportioner; there it picks up the foam concentrate and carries it to the intake side of the pump. It is the most common apparatus-mounted foam proportioner in service.
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF)
Synthetic foam concentrate that, when combined with water, can form a complete vapor barrier over fuel spills and fires and is a highly effective extinguishing and blanketing agent on hydrocarbon fuels
Dump Line
Secured hoseline that is used to handle excess water during a relay operation
Culture
The shared assumptions, beliefs, and valves of a group or organizations
Collapse Zone
Area beneath a wall in which the wall is likely to land if it loses structural integrity
Clapper Valves
Hinged valve that permits the flow of water in one direction only
Chronic
Long-term and reoccurring
Chain of Command
Order of rank and authority in the fire and emergency services
Carcinogen
cancer-producing substance
Brake Fade
Loss of braking function that occurs due to excessive use of the brakes
Baffle
Intermediate partial bulkhead that reduces the surge effect in a partially loaded liquid tank
Back Pressure
Pressure loss or gain created by changes in elevation between the nozzle and pump
Auger
Tool for boring (drilling) holes in floors and other solid barriers including ice
Application Rate
Minimum amount of foam solution that must be applied to an unignited fire, spill, or spill fire to either control vapor emission or extinguish the fire; measured per minute per square foot (or square meter) of area to be covered
Apparatus Typing
Categorization and description of apparatus commonly exchanged in disasters via mutual aid by capacity and/or capabilities
Anti-lock Braking Systems
An electric system that monitors wheel spin. When braking and a wheel are sensed to begin locking up, the brake on that wheel is temporarily released to prevent skidding
Anchor Point
Point from which a fire line is begun; Usually a natural or man-made barrier that prevents fire spread and the possibility of the crew being “flanked” while constructing the fire line, examples include lakes, ponds, streams, roads, earlier burns, rockslides, and cliffs
Ammeter
Gauge that indicated both the amount of electrical current being drawn from and provided to the vehicle’s battery
Altitude
Geographic position of a location or object in relation to sea level. The location may be either above, below, or at sea level
All-Hazard Concept
A coordinated approach to a wide variety of incidents; all responders use a similar, coordinated approach with a common set of authorities, protections, and resources
Alcohol-Resistant Aqueous Film Forming Foam Concentrate (AR-AFFF)
Aqueous film forming foam that is designed for use with polar solvent fuels
Air Drop
Process of dropping water, short-term fire retardant, or long-term fire retardant from an air tanker or helicopter onto a wildland fire
Air Brake Test
Series of tests used to ensure the serviceability of an air braking system. Tests include air loss, air compressor buildup, air warning, and emergency parking brake activation
Air-Actuated Braking Systems
Braking system that uses compressed air to hold off a spring brake (parking brake) and applies air pressure to a service brake for vehicle stopping
Aerial Ladder Truss
Assembly of bracing bars or rods in triangular shapes that form a rigid framework for the aerial device
Aerial ladder
power-operated ladder, usually employing hydraulics, that is mounted on a special truck chassis
Aerial Device
General term used to describe the hydraulically operated ladder or elevating platform attached to a specially designed fire apparatus
Aerial Apparatus
Fire fighting vehicle equipped with a hydraulically operated ladder, elevating platform, or other similar device for the purpose of placing personnel and/or water streams in elevated positions
Aeration
Introduction of air into a foam solution to create bubbles that result in finished foam
Acute
Sharp or severe; having a rapid onset and short duration
Acceptance Testing
Preservice tests on fire apparatus or equipment, performed at the factory or after delivery, to assure the purchaser that the apparatus or equipment meets bid specifications
Acceleration skids
sliding and loss of control caused by applying a vehicles gas pedal too quickly
Fireboat
Vessel or watercraft designed and constructed for the purpose of fighting fires; provides a specified level of pumping capacity and personnel for the extinguishment of fires in the marine environment
Film Forming Fluoroprotein Foam (FFFP)
foam concentrate that combines the qualities of fluoroprotein foam with those of aqueous film forming foam
Fill Site
Location at which tankers/tenders will be loaded during a water shittle operation
Engine Compression Brake
Any device that uses the engine and transmission to impede the forward motion of the motor vehicle by compression of the engine
Elevation Pressure
Gain or loss of pressure in a hoseline due to a change in elevation
Elevation
Height of a point above sea level or some other reference point
Elevating Platform
Work platform attached to the end of an articulating or telescoping aerial device
Eductor
- portable proportioning device that injects a liquid, such as foam concentrate, into the water flowing through a hoseline or pipe
- Venturi device that uses water pressure to draw foam concentrate into a water stream for mixing; also enables a pump to draw water from an auxiliary source
Eduction
Process used to mix foam concentrate with water in a nozzle or proportioner; concentrate is drawn into the water stream by the venturi method
Dynamic Load
Loads that involve motion. They include the forces arising from wind, moving vehicles, earthquakes, vibration, or falling objects, as well as the addition of a moving load force to an aerial device or structure
Dump Site
Location approved for water shuttle apparatus to discharge their water for other apparatus to draw during incident operations
Due Regard
Driver/operators drive with “due regard” for the safety of others using the highways. State vehicle codes provide and give special privileges to the operators or emergency vehicles; however, this does not relieve the operator from the duty and responsibility to drive with “due regard” for the safety of others
Dual pumping
Operation where a strong hydrant is used to supply 2 pumpers by connecting the pumpers intake-to-intake. The second pumper receives the excess water not being pumped by the first pumper, which is directly connected to the water supply source
Dry Hydrant
Permanently installed pipe that has pumper suction connections installed at static water sources to spree drafting operations
dry-Barrel Hydrant
Fire hydrant that has its operating valve at the water main rather than in the barrel of the hydrant. when operating properly, there is no water in the barrel of the hydrant when it is not in used. These hydrants are used in areas where freezing may occur
Drafting
Process of acquiring water from a static source and transferring it into a pump that is above the source’s level; Atmospheric pressure on the water surface forces the water into the pump where a partial vacuum was created
Distribution Systems
Part of an overall water supply system that receives the water from the pumping station and delivers it throughout the area to be served
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
Device designed to remove diesel particulate matter or soot from the exhaust gas of a diesel engine
Dependable Lift
Height a column of water may be lifted in sufficient quantity to provide a reliable fire flow. Lift may be raised through a hard suction hose to a pump, taking into consideration the atmospheric pressure and friction loss within the hard suction hose; dependable lift is usually considered to be 14.7 feet (4.48m)
Defensive Attack
Exterior fire attack that is limited to controlling the spread of a fire, with an emphasis on exposure protection
Decomposition
Chemical change in which a substance breaks down into 2 or more simpler substances. Results of oxygen acting on a material that result in a change in the material’s composition; oxidation occurs slowly, sometimes resulting in the rusting of metals
Deadheading
Operating a hydraulic pump without allowing flow through the system, which generates tremendous heat and pressure and can damage components
Compressed Air Foam System (CAFS)
Generic term used to describe a high-energy foam-generation system consisting of a water pump, a foam proportioning system, and an air compressor (or other air source) that injects air into the foam solution before it enters a hoseline
Company
Basic fire fighting organizational unit consisting of firefighters and apparatus; headed by a company officer
Fire Department Connection (FDC)
Point at which the fire department can connect into a sprinkler or standpipe system to boost the water pressure and flow in the system. This connection consist of a clappered siamese with 2 or more 2 1/2 inch (64mm) intakes or one large diameter (4 inch [102mm] or larger) intake
Fire fighting Boots
Protective footwear meeting the design requirements of NFPA, OSHA, & CAN/CSA Z195-02
Fire Flow Testing
Procedure used to determine the rate of water flow available for fire fighting at various points within the distribution system
Flowmeter
Mechanical device installed in a discharge line that senses the amount of water flowing and provides a readout in units of gallons per minute (or liters per minute)
Fly Section
Extendable section of ground extensor or aerial ladder
Foam
Extinguishing agent formed by mixing foam concentrate with water and aerating the solution for expansion; for use on Class A and Class B fires. Foam may be protein, fluoroprotein, film forming fluoroprotein, synthetic, aqueous film forming, high expansion, alcohol type, or alcohol-resistant type
Foam Concentrate
- Raw chemical compound solution that is mixed with water and air to produce finished foam; may be protein, synthetic, aqueous film forming, high expansion, or alcohol types
- Raw foam liquid as it rests in its storage container before the introduction of water and air
Overload
Operation of equipment or a conductor in excess of its rated ampacity; continuous overload may result in overheating that damages the equipment
Outside Screw and Yoke (OS&Y) Valve
Outside stem and yoke valve; a type of control valve for a sprinkler system in which the position of the center screw indicates whether the valve is open or closed
Operational Readiness Inspection
Inspecting an apparatus and equipment on the apparatus to ensure that all equipment is in place, clean, and ready for service
Overthrottling
Process of injecting or supplying the diesel engine with ore fuel than be burned
Nurse Tanker
Very large water tanker (generally 4,000 gallons [16,000 L] or larger) that is stationed at the fire scene and serves as a portable reservoir rather than as a shuttle tanker
Nozzle Reaction
Counterforce directed against a person holding a nozzle or a device holding a nozzle by the velocity of water being discharged
Nonpotable Water
Water that has not been examined, properly treated, or approved by appropriate authorities as being safe for consumption
Nondestructive Testing
Method of testing metal objects that does not subject them to stress-related damage
Open Butt
End of a charged hoseline that is flowing water without a nozzle or valve to control the flow
Net Pump Discharge Pressure (NPDP)
Actual amount of pressure being produced by the pump; difference between the intake pressure and the discharge pressure
National Incident Management System - Incident Command System (NIMS-ICS)
U.S. mandated incident management system that defines the roles, responsibilities, and standard operating procedures used to manage emergency operations; creates a unified incident response structure for federal, state, and local governments
Mop-Up
- overhaul of a fire or hazardous material scene
- In wildland fire fighting, the act of making a fire safe after it is controlled by extinguishing or removing burning material along or near the control line, felling dead trees (snags), and trenching logs to prevent rolling
Mitigate
To cause to become less harash or hostile; to make less severe, intense or painful; to alleviate
Negligence
Breach of duty in which a person or organization fails to perform at the standard required by law or that would be expected by a reasonable person under similar circumstances
Mini-Pumper
Small fire apparatus mounted on a pickup-truck-sized chassis, usually with a pump having a rated capacity less than 500 gpm (2,000 L/min). Its primary advantage is speed and mobility, which enables it to respond to fires more rapidly than larger apparatus
Military Specifications (Mil-Specs)
Specifications developed by the U.S. department of Defense (DoD) for the purchase of materials and equipment
Midi-Pumper
Apparatus sized between a mini-pumper and a full-sized fire department pumper, usually with a gross vehicle weight of 12,000 pounds (6,000 kg) or greater. the midi-pumper has a fire pump with a rated capacity generally not greater than 1,000 gpm (4,000 L/min)
Mechanical Foam
Foam produced by a physical agitation of a mixture of foam concentrate, water, and oil
Mechanical Blower
High-expansion foam generator that uses a fan to inject the air into the foam solution as it passes through the unit
Maximum Lift
Maximum height to which any amount of water may be raised through a hard suction hose to a pump; determined by the ability of the pump to create a vacuum
Miscible
Materials that are capable of being mixed in all proportions
Manhole
- hole through which a person may go to gain access to an underground or enclosed structure
- opening usually equipped with a removable, lockable cover, that is large enough to admit a person into a tank trailer or dry bulk trailer
Maintenance
Keeping equipment or apparatus in a state of usefulness or readiness
Manual Shift Transmission
Component of the power train that receives torque from the engine and converts it to rotation to the wheels. A Clutch is used to disengage the transmission from the engine to allow the apparatus to start, stop, or change gears to maximize engine performance
Load Shedding
When an overload condition occurs, the load monitor shuts down less important electrical equipment to prevent the overload
Load Sequencer
Device in an electrical system that turns on lights at specific intervals so that the start-up load for all the devices does not occur at the same time
Locked Wheel Skid
Skid usually caused by braking too hard at a high rate of speed and locking the wheels. The vehicle will skid no matter which way the steering wheel is turned
Load Management System
Electrical monitoring system that will shed electrical load in a predetermined order if the chassis voltage begins to drop below a predetermined level
Load Chart
Graphical or tabular description of the load that can be distributed on an aerial device based on factors such as extension, elevation, stabilizer step, wind, waterflow, and ice-load
Line Personnel
Personnel who provide emergency services to external customers (the public)
Lift
Theoretical, scientific height that a column of water may be lifted by atmospheric pressure in a true vacuum. A sea level, this height is 33.8 feet (10m). The height will decrease as elevation increases
Load Monitor
Device that “watches” an electrical system for added loads that may threaten to overload the system
Level I Staging
Used on all multiple-company emergency responses. The first-arriving vehicles of each type proceed directly to the scene, and the others stand by a block or two from the scene and await orders. units usually stage at the last intersection on their route of travel before reaching the reported incident location
Large Diameter Hose (LDH)
Relay-supply hose of 3 1/2 to 6 inches (90 to 150mm) in diameter; used to move large volumes of water quickly with a minimum number of pumpers and personnel
Level II Staging
Used on large-scale incidents where a larger number of fire and emergency services companies are responding; these companies are sent to a specific remote location to await assignment
Kickplate
4-inch (100mm) metal plate that runs around the bottom edge of an elevating platform to prevent a firefighter’s foot from slipping off the edge of the platform
Knuckle
Joint between two sections of boom in an articulating aerial device
JackKnifing
Condition of truck tractor/semitrailer combination when their relative positions to each other form an angle of 90 degrees or less about the trailer kingpin, such as turning the tractor portion of a tractor-tiller aerial apparatus at an angle from the trailer to increase stability when the aerial device is being used
Jet Ratio Controller (JRC)
Type of foam eductor that is used to supply self-educting master stream nozzles; may be located at distances up to 3,000 feet (900m) from the nozzle
Inverter
Step-up transformer that converts a vehicle’s 12- or 24-volt DC current into 110- or 220-volt AC current
Intake Hose
Hose used to connect a fire department pumper or a portable pump to a nearby water source; may be soft sleeve or hard suction hose
Interlock
safety device that prevents a component from functioning when another component is functioning
Insurance Services Office (ISO)
Private national insurance organization that evaluates and rates fire defense for all communities through the fire-suppression rating schedule. Also serves as an advisory organization to other property-liability insurance companies
Injection
Method of proportioning foam that uses an external pump or head pressure to force foam concentrate into the fire stream at the correct ratio for the flow desired
In Line Eductor
Eductor that is placed along the length of a hoseline
In-Line Proportioner
Type of foam delivery device that is located in the water supply line near the nozzle. The foam concentrate is drawn into the water line using the venturi method
Initial Attack Fire Apparatus
Fire apparatus whose primary purpose is to initiate a fire attack on structural and wildland fires and support associated fire departments actions
Incident Management System (IMS)
System described in NFPA 1561, standard on emergency services incident management system, that defines the roles, responsibilities, and standard operating procedures used to manage emergency operations. Such system may also be referred to as the incident command system (ICS)
Incident Commander (IC)
Person in charge of the incident command system and responsible for management of all incident operations during an emergency
Impeller Eye
intake orifice at the center of the centrifugal pump impeller
Impeller
Vaned, circulating member of the centrifugal pump that transmits motion to the water
Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH)
Description of any atmosphere that poses an immediate hazard to life or produces immediate irreversible, debilitating effects of health
Ice Shrugging
Slowly extending and retracting the aerial device to remove accumulated ice
Hydrostatic Test
Testing method that uses water under pressure to check the integrity of pressure vessels
Hydrolyze
To cause or undergo a chemical process of decomposition involving the splitting of a bond and the addition of the element of water
Hydrocarbon Fuel
Petroleum-based organic compound that contains only hydrogen and carbon
Hydraulic Braking Systems
Braking system that uses a fluid in a closed system to pressurize wheel cylinders when activated
Hydrant Wrench
Specially designed tool used to open or close a hydrant and to remove hydrant caps
Hoisting Cylinder
Hydraulic Cylinders used to lift the aerial device from its bed to a working position
Hearing Protection
Device that limits noise-induced hearing loss when firefighters are exposed to extremely loud environments, such as apparatus engine noise, audible warning devices, and the use of power tools and equipment
Huck Bolt
Mechanically applied rivet used in the construction of some aerial devices; huck bolts can only be removed by drilling
Hot Zone
Potentially hazardous area immediately surrounding the incident site; requires appropriate protective clothing and equipment and other safety precautions for entry. Typically limited to technician-level personnel
Head
Alternate term for pressure, especially pressure due to elevation. For every 1-foot increase in elevation, 0.434 psi is gained (for every 1-meter increase in elevation, 9.8 kPa is gained).
Hazard-Control Zones
System of barriers surrounding designated areas at emergency scenes, intended to limit the number of persons exposed to a hazard and to facilitate its mitigation. A major incident has 3 Zones; Restricted (hot) zone, limited access (warm) zone, and support (cold) zone
Hazard
Condition, substance, or device that can directly cause injury or loss; the source of a risk
Ground Gradient
Electrical field that radiates outward from where the current enters the ground; its intensity dissipates rapidly as distance increases from the point of entry
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFI)
Device designed to protect against electrical shock; wen grounding occurs, the device opens a circuit to shut off the flow of electricity
Gross Negligence
Willful and wanton disregard
Gross Axle Weight Rating
Maximum amount of weight than an axle system can safely carry
Grid System
Water supply system that utilizes lateral feeders for improved distribution
Gravity Circle
Theoretical safety zone that surrounds the center of gravity on an aerial apparatus
Gelling Agent
Superabsorbent liquid polymers capable of absorbing hundreds of times their own weight in water. These gels can be used as fire suppressants and fire retardants. Gels function by entrapping water in their structure rather than air, as in the case with fire fighting foams
Functional Check
An inspection where a certain system or component of an apparatus is operated to ensure that it is functioning properly
Fulcrum-Type Stabilizer
Stabilizing device that extends at an angle down and away from the chassis of an aerial fire apparatus
Front-Mount Pump
Fire pump mounted in front of the radiator of a vehicle and powered off the crankshaft
Friction Loss
Loss of pressure created by the turbulence of water moving against the interior walls of the hose or pipe
Free Play
Amount of travel the clutch has before it begins to disengage the engine from the transmission
Four-way Hydrant Valve
Device that permits a pumper to boost the pressure in a supply line connected to a hydrant without interrupting the water flow
Force
Simple measure of weight, usually expressed in pounds or kilograms
Fog Stream
Water stream of finely divided particles used for fire control
Foam Solution
- The result of mixing the appropriate amount of foam concentrate with water; foam solution exists between the proportioner and the nozzle or aerating device that adds air to create finished foam
- The mixture of foam concentrate and water before the introduction of air
Foam Proportioner
Device that injects the correct amount of foam concentrate into the water to make the foam solution
Foam Expansion
Result of adding air to a foam solution consisting of water and foam concentrate. Expansion creates the foam bubbles that result in finished foam or foam blanket
Post-Maintenance/Repair Inspection
Specific inspection to an area of a chassis or apparatus to ensure that the unit is operating properly in accordance with the manufacturer’s initial design
Parapet Wall
Vertical extension of an exterior wall, and sometimes an interior fire wall, above the roofline of a building
Performance Requirements
Written list of expected capabilities for new apparatus. The list is produced by the purchaser and presented to the manufacturer as a guide for what is expected
Personal Alert Safety System (PASS)
Electronic lack-of-motion sensor that sounds a loud alarm when a firefighter becomes motionless; can also be manually activated
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
General term for the equipment worn by fire and emergency services responders; includes helmets, coats, trousers, boots, eye protection, hearing protection, protective gloves, protective hoods, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) , personal alert safety system (PASS) devices, and chemical protective clothing. when working with hazardous materials, bands or tape are added around the legs, arms, and waist
Pickup Tube
Solid or flexible tube used to transfer foam concentrate from a storage container to the in-line eductor or proportioner
Pin
Mechanical means to secure the master stream monitor to the ladder; anchoring mechanisms may include pins, levers, or clamps
Piston Pumps
Positive-displacement pump using one or more reciprocating pistons to force water from the pump chambers
Polar Solvents
Liquid have a molecule in which the positive and negative charges are permanently separated, resulting in their ability to ionize in solution and create electrical conductivity. Water, alcohol, and sulfuric acid are examples of polar solvents
Policy
Organizational Principle that is developed and adopted as a basis for decision-making
Portable Tank
Collapsible storage tank used during a relay or shittle operation to hold water from water tanks or hydrants; this water can then be used to supply attack apparatus
Positive Displacement Pumps
Self-priming pump that utilizes a piston or interlocking rotors to move a given amount of fluid through the pump chamber with each stroke of the piston or rotation of the rotors. Used for hydraulic pumps on aerial devices’ hydraulic systems and for priming pumps on centrifugal fire pumps
Post Indicator Valve (PIV)
Type of valve used to control underground water mains that provides a visual means for indicating “open” or “shut” positions; found on the supply main of installed fire protection systems. the operating stem of the valve extends aboveground through a “post,” and a visual means is provided at the top of the post for indicating “open” or “shut”
Stokes Basket
Wire or plastic basket type litter suitable for transporting patients from locations where a standard litter would not be easily secured, such as a pile of rubble, a structural collapse, or the upper floor of a building; may be used with a harness for lifting
Structural Firefighters’ Protective Clothing
General term for the equipment worn by fire and emergency services responders; include helmets, coats, pants, boots, eye protection, gloves, protective hoods, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and personal alert safety system (PASS) devices
Tandem Pumping
Short relay operation in which the pumper taking water from the supply source pumps into the intake of the second pumper; the second pumper then boosts the pressure of the water even higher. This method is used when pressures higher than the capability of a single pump are required
Telescoping Aerial Platform
Elevating platform equipped with piping systems and nozzles for elevated master stream operations. telescoping aerial devices are not meant to be climbed and are equipped with a small ladder that is to be used only for escape from the platform in emergency situations
Tender
Term used within the incident command system for a mobile piece of apparatus that has the primary function of supporting another operation; examples include a water tender that supplies water to pumpers, or a fuel tender that supplies fuel to other vehicles
Wet-Barrel Hydrant
Fire hydrant that has water all the way up to the discharge outlets; may have separate valves for each discharge or one valve for all the discharges. This type of hydrant is only used in areas where there is no danger of freezing weather conditions
Venturi Effect
Physical law stating that when a fluid, such as water or air, is forced under pressure through a restricted orifice, there is an increase in the velocity of the fluid passing through the orifice and a corresponding decrease in the pressure exerted against the sides of the constriction. Because the surrounding fluid is under greater (atmospheric) pressure, it is forced into the area of lower pressure
Wear Rings
Replaceable rings that are attached to the impeller and/or the pump casing to allow a small running clearance between the impeller and pump casing without causing wear of the actual impeller or pump casing material
Water Hammer
Force created by the rapid deceleration of water; causes a violent increase in pressure that can be powerful enough to rupture piping or damage fixtures. Generally results from closing a valve or nozzle too quickly
Variable-Flow Variable-Rate Direct-Injection System
Apparatus-mounted foam system that injects the correct amount of foam into the pump piping, thereby supplying all discharges with foam. The system automatically monitors the operation of the hoselines and maintains a consistent quality of foam solution
Variable-Flow Demand-Type Balanced-Pressure Proportioner
Foam proportioning system that is used in both fixed and mobile applications; a variable speed mechanism dries the foam pump and automatically monitors the flow of foam to produce an effective foam solution
Voltmeter
Device used for measuring existing voltage in an electrical system
Total Stopping Distance
Sum of the driver reaction distance and the vehicle braking distance
Torsional Stress
Twisting action or an applied force resulting in a rotational twist
Tillered Trailer
Trailer equipped with steerable rear wheels
Tiller Operator
Driver/operator of the trailer section of a tractor-tiller aerial ladder apparatus
Tilt Cab
Truck that uses a cab that lowers over the power train
Staff Personnel
Personnel who provide administrative and logistical support to line units (internal customers)
Stabilizer Shoe
Flat metal plate attached to the bottom of the aerial apparatus stabilizer to provide film footing on the stabilizing surface
Stabilizer Pad
Unattached flat metal plate that is larger in area than the stabilizer foot; placed on the ground beneath the intended resting point of the stabilizer foot, inorder to provide better weight distribution
Stabilizer
Device that transfers the center of gravity of an apparatus and prevents it from tipping as the aerial device, hydraulic lifting boom, gin pole, or A-frame is extended away from the centerline of the chassis
Spotting
- Positioning the apparatus in a location that provides the utmost efficiency for operating on the fireground
- positioning a ladder to reach an object or person
Span of Control
Maximum number of subordinates that one individual can effectively supervise; ranges from 3 to 7 individuals or functions, with 5 generally established as optimum
Solid Fire Stream
Hose stream that stays together as a solid mass, as opposed t a fog or spray stream; a solid stream is produced by a smooth bore nozzle and should not be confused with a straight stream
Slack Adjusters
Devices used in an air brake system that connect between the activation pads and the brake pads that compensate for brake pad wear
Skid
Uncontrolled slid across a surface in a wheeled vehicle
Size-up
Ongoing evaluation of influential factors at the scene of an incident
Situational Awareness
Perception of one’s surrounding environment and the ability to anticipate future events
Siamese Applicance
Hose appliance that has two or more female inlets and a single male outlet. It is equipped with hinged gates (clapper valves) that prevent water from being discharged through an open inlet
Short-Jacking
Setting the stabilizers on one side of an apparatus shorter than the stabilizers on the other side; usually done when access for full stabilization is restricted
Shock Loading
Loads that involve motion; includes the forces arising from wind, moving vehicles, earthquakes, vibration, falling objects, or the addition of a moving load force to an aerial device or structure
Self-Educting Nozzle
Handline nozzle that has the foam eductor built into it
Self-Educting Master Stream Foam Nozzle
Large capacity nozzle with built-in foam eductor
Selector Valve
3-way valve on a fire department aerial apparatus that directs oil to either stabilizer control valves or the aerial device control valves
Rotary Vane Pumps
Type of positive displacement pump commonly used in hydraulic systems. A rotor with attached vanes is mounted off-center inside the pump housing; pressure is imparted on the water as the space between the rotor and the pump housing wall decreases
Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
Foam provided by the manufacturer and blender of chemicals that contains information about chemical composition, physical and chemical properties, health and safety hazards, emergency response procedures, and waste disposal procedures of a specified material
Roll-On Application Method
Method of foam application in which the foam stream is directed at the ground at the front edge of the unignited or ignited liquid fuel spill; foam then spreads across the surface of the liquid
Road Tests
Preservice apparatus maneuverability tests designed to determine the road-worthiness of a new vehicle
Risk-Management Plan
Written plan that identifies and analyzes the exposure to hazards, selects appropriate risk management techniques to handle exposures, implements those techniques, and monitors the results
Risk
Likelihood of suffering harm from a hazard; exposure to a hazard. The potential for failure or loss
Retroreflective Trim
Surfaces such as those used on road signs, emergency vehicle markings, protective clothing, or safety vests which are designed to reflect light along multiple planes at once, giving the surface the appearance of illumination
Response District
Geographical area to which a particular apparatus is assigned to be first due on a fire or other emergency incident
Residual Pressure
Pressure at the test hydrant while water is flowing; represents the pressure remaining in the water supply system while the test water is flowing and is that part of the total pressure that is not used to overcome friction or gravity while forcing water through fire hose, pipe, fittings, and adapters
Rescue Pumper
Specially designed apparatus that combines the functions of both a rescue vehicle and a fire department pumper
Repair
To restore or put together something that has become inoperable or out of place
Wye
Hose appliance with one female inlet and two or more male outlets; the outlets are usually smaller than the inlet and are usually gated
Wildland/Urban Interface
Line, area, or zone where an undeveloped wildland area meets a human development area
Water Tower
Aerial device primarily intended for deploying an elevated master stream; not generally intended for climbing operations
Water Supply Pumper
Pumper that takes water from a source and sends it to attack pumpers operating at the fire scene
Warm Zone
Area between the hot and cold zones that usually contains the decontamination corridor; typically requires a lesser degree of personal protective equipment than the Hot Zone
Volute
Spiral, divergent chamber of a centrifugal pump, in which the velocity energy given to water by the impeller blades is converted into pressure
Vaulted Surfaces
Ground above underground vaults, such as underground parking structures, utility chases, drainage culverts, and basements, that extends under sidewalks or underground transportation systems
Vacuum
In the fire and emergency services, a pressure that is somewhat less than atmospheric pressure; a vacuum is needed to facilitate drafting of water from a static source
Unity of Command
Organizational principle in which workers report to only one supervisor in order to eliminate conflicting orders
Turntable
Rotational structural component of the aerial device. Its primary function is to provide continuous rotation on a horizontal plane
Trunnion
In a hydraulic cylinder, the pivoting end of the piston rod that is connected to the anchor ear by the heel pin
Training Evolution
Operation of fire and emergency services training covering one or several aspects of fire fighting
Traffic Control Zone
Operational zone established on or near a roadway for the rerouting of traffic and protection of civilians and responders; may include a hot, warm, and cold zone depending on the incident
Torque
- force that tends to create a rotational or twisting motion
- measurement of engine shaft output
- force that produces or tend to produce a twisting or rotational action
Throw-Out Bearing
Component used to push on the internal clutch fingers connected to the clutch pedal and when activated, disengages the clutch from the engine
Theoretical Lift
Theoretical, scientific height that a column of water may be lifted by atmospheric pressure in a true vacuum; at sea level, this height is 33.8 ft (10m). The height will decrease as elevation increases
Tachometer
Instrument that indicates the rotational speed of a shaft in revolutions per minute (rpm); usually indicates engine speed
Surfactant
Chemical that lowers the surface tension of a liquid; allows water to spread more rapidly over the surface of Class A fuels and penetrate organic fuels
Structural Fire Fighting
Activities required for rescue, fire suppression, and property conservation in structures, vehicles, vessels, and similar types of properties
Steering Wheel Play
In a steering system, the amount of travel between turning the wheel and when the steering system moves
Steamer Connection
Large-diameter outlet, usually 4 1/2 inches (115mm), at a hydrant or at the base of an elevated water storage container
Static Water Supply
Supply of water at rest that does not provide a pressure head for fire suppression but may be employed as a suction source for fire pumps; for example, water in a reservoir, pong, or cistern
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
Formal methods or rules to guide the performance of routine functions or emergency operations. Procedures are typically written in a handbook, so that all firefighters can consult and become familiar with them
Staging Area Manager
Company officer of the first-arriving company at the staging who takes command of the area and is responsible for communicating available resources and resource needs to the operations section chief
Staging
Standardized process or procedure by which available resources responding to a fire or other emergency incident are held in reserve at a location away from the incident while awaiting assignment
Relay Operations
Using 2 or more pumpers to move water over a long distance by operating them in series; water discharged from one pumper flows through hoses to the inlet of the next pumpers, and so on
Relay
To shuttle water between a source and an emergency scene using mobile water supply apparatus
Rehabilitation
Allowing firefighters or rescuers to rest, rehydrate, and recover during an incident; also refers to a station at an incident where personnel can rest, rehydrate, and recover
Refractometer
Device used to measure the amount of foam concentrate in the solution; operates on the principle of measuring the velocity of light that travels through the foam solution
Reckless Disregard
Act of proceeding to do something with a conscious awareness of danger, while ignoring any potential consequences of so doing. Reckless disregard, while not necessarily suggesting an intent to cause harm, is a harsher condition than ordinary negligence
Reaction Distance
Distance a vehicle travels while a driver transfers a foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal after perceiving the need for stopping
Quint
Apparatus that serves as an engine and as a ladder truck; equipped with a fire pump, water tank, ground ladders, hose bed, and aerial device
Pumper/Tender
Mobile water supply apparatus equipped with a fire pump. In some jurisdictions this term is used to differentiate a fire pump equipped mobile water supply apparatus whose main purpose is to attack the fire
Pumper Outlet Nozzle
Fire hydrant outlet that is 4 inches (102mm) in diameter or larger
Pump Discharge Pressure (PDP)
Actual pressure of the water as it leaves the pump and enters the hoseline; total amount of pressure being discharged by a pump. In mathematical terms, it is the pump intake pressure plus the net pump discharge pressure. Measured in pound per square inch.
Pump Charts
Charts carried on a fire apparatus to aid the pump operator in determining the proper pump discharge pressure when supplying hoselines
Pump and Roll
Ability of an apparatus to pump water while the vehicle is in motion
Proximity Fire Fighting
Activities required for rescue, fire suppression, and property conservation at fires that produce high radiant, conductive, or convective heat; includes aircraft, hazardous materials transport, and storage tank fires
Protein Foam Concentrate
Foam concentrate that consists of a protein hydrolysate plus additives to prevent the concentrate from freezing, prevents corrosion of equipment and containers, prevents bacterial decomposition of the concentrate during storage, and controls viscosity
Protective Trousers
Trousers worn to protect the lower torso and legs during emergency operations
Protective Hood
Hood designed to protect the firefighter’s ears, neck, and face from heat and debris; typically made of Nomex, Kevlar, or PBI, and available in long or short styles
Protective Gloves
Protective clothing designed to protect the hands
Protective Coat
Coat worn during fire fighting, rescue, and extrication operations
Proportioning
Mixing of water with an appropriate amount of foam concentrate in order to form a foam solution
Procedure
Outline of the steps that must be performed in order to properly follow an organizational policy. Procedures help an organization to ensure that it consistently approaches a task int he correct way, in order to accomplish a specific objective
Priming Device
Any device, usually a positive-displacement pump, used to exhaust the air from inside a centrifugal pump and the attached hard suction; this creates a partial vacuum, allowing atmospheric pressure to force water from a static source through the suction hose into the centrifugal pump
Pretrip Road Worthiness Inspection
Visual inspection of an apparatus to ensure the major components of the chassis are present and in proper working condition
Pressure Governor
Pressure control device that controls engine speed, eliminating hazardous conditions that result from excessive pressures
Pressure Differential
Effect of altering the atmospheric pressure within a confined space by mechanical means. When air is exhausted from within the space, a low-pressure environment is created and replacement air will be drawn in; when air is blown into the pace, a high-pressure environment is created and air within will move to the outside
Pressure
Force per unit area exerted by a liquid or gas measured in pounds per square inch (psi) or Kilopascals (kPa)
Premixing
Mixing premeasured portions of water and foam concentrate in a container. Typically, the premix method is used with portable extinguishers, wheeled extinguishers, skid-mounted twin-agent units, and vehicle-mounted tank systems
Preincident Planning
Act of preparing to manage an incident at a particular location or a particular type of incident before an incident occurs
Power Take-Off (PTO) System
Mechanism that allows a vehicle engine to power equipment such as a pump, winch, or portable tool; it is typically attached to the transmission
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Disorder caused when persons have been exposed to a traumatic event in which they have experienced, witnessed, or been confronted with an event or events that involve actual death, threatened death, serious injury, or the threat of physical injury to self or others
Post Incident Analysis
Overview and critique of an incident by members of all responding agencies, including dispatchers. Typically takes place within 2 weeks of the incident. In the training environment it may be used to evaluate student and instructor performance during a training evolution
