Due to ever changing technologies in the automotive field, hybrids, electric vehicles, and other alternative-fuel vehicles have become common on our roads. These vehicles pose new risks and require a new approach for firefighters and first responders. To answer this call, in 2007 MGS Tech began research to design their Hybrid Response Guide (HRG). Growing out of that research, an in-depth training course was developed with the goal to provide Firefighters and other first responders the most up-to-date technical information they require to safely work with all types of vehicle incidents.
For 2012, the staff of MGS Tech have expanded their course offerings to include topics such as: Alternative Fuel Heavy Truck/Bus, Advanced Supplemental Restraint Systems for Crash Analysis and Event Reconstruction, and alternate versions of their popular Hybrid/New Vehicle Technology for First Responders course designed as part of Auto Extrication presentations.
Also new this year are innovative additions to the product line; the Vehicle Crash Card (VCC) and the Vehicle Incident Command Board (VICB).
The VCC, a replacement of the printed Hybrid Response Guide (HRG), evolved after 5 years of research, in an effort towards simplification of procedures to identify hazards and perform power downs on ALL vehicles, not just hybrids.
The VICB is an all-new tool developed to support procedural accountability by simplifying and organizing the proper steps to manage MVA scenes.
With over 60 years combined automotive engineering and mechanical experience and having completed extensive Firefighter and auto extrication courses, we at MGS Tech are committed to bringing this vital information into Fire Departments across the country and Saving Lives by Saving Time.
For more on MGS Tech, visit www.mgstech.net or CLICK HERE to download a PDF on their new resource guides (390 Kb).
For extrication training from the experts at MGS Tech, visit the Extrication Zone HERE or consult these articles:
- Chevrolet Volt Battery Fire: A Common-Sense Response
- Electric Vehicle Systems for Firefighters and First Responders
- Hybrid Bus and Heavy Truck Systems
- Hybrid Models Around Us Today
- Vehicle Electrical Circuits
- History of Hybrid Development
- Mid-Voltage/Low-Voltage Automotive Systems
- Scenario: MVA Involving a Hybrid Vehicle
- HID Lighting: A Bright Idea?
- Basic Electrical Theory
- Hybrid Safety for First Responders