BY WILLIAM.C. PETERS
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(1) The tip of this aerial ladder provides multiple functions for the user. In addition to the remote-controlled ladder pipe, there are line voltage flood lighting, 12-volt spotlights, and a 21/2-inch gated discharge at-tached to the waterway. Although having a hoseline discharge available from the tip of an aerial might be helpful during overhaul, firefighters must be cautioned against making the aerial ladder a very expensive standpipe. The aerial should remain available for rescue or roof access, if needed. (Photos by Ron Jeffers.)
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(2) Carrying standpipe packs in the small compartments on an engine can present a chal-lenge. These simple tray and spring holders store the standpipe packs out of the way but readily accessible for quick use.
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(3, 4) Often when specifying apparatus, departments overlook void spaces for equipment storage. These apparatus make good use of such areas without taking up valuable compartment space.
(5) This apparatus has a vertical exhaust stack behind the treadplate enclosure. It is very important to consider this option when specifying breathing air and haz-mat units, around which personnel will be working at ground level for long periods of time filling air cylinders or donning protective suits.
(6) In keeping with the ever-expanding role of the fire service, this pumper has transport capabilities for EMS response.
WILLIAM C. PETERS is a 27-year veteran of the Jersey City (NJ) Fire Department and has served the past 15 years as apparatus supervisor, with responsibility for purchasing and maintaining the apparatus fleet. He is a voting member of the NFPA 1901 Apparatus Committee, representing apparatus users. Peters is the author of Fire Apparatus Purchasing Handbook (Fire Engineering, 1994); two chapters on apparatus in The Fire Chief’s Handbook, Fifth Edition (Fire Engineering, 1995); the instructional video Factory Inspections of New Fire Apparatus (Fire Engineering, 1998); and numerous apparatus-related articles. He is an advisory board member of Fire Engineering and the FDIC and lectures extensively on apparatus purchase and safety issues.
