Training is an essential element in all aspects of firefighting performance. The more realistic the training, the more prepared firefighters are to face real-life incidents. In the Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting (ARFF) community, response drills are critical performance requirements for the firefighters in protecting the nation’s airports. There are several points to draw from this near-miss event, so do not put this one aside if you do not ride an ARFF rig. The response drill is part of the routine regimen, much like the basic layout or ladder drill is to structural firefighting. In this week’s featured report, we’re witness to a response drill that goes awry.
“An ARFF unit was dispatched by the airport FAA control tower on a to a location within the aircraft operating area. Because of aircraft traffic occupying the primary response route…the ARFF driver chose an alternate route that included traveling a short distance on a two lane airport service road. While attempting to negotiate a fairly tight left hand curve, the right front wheels of the apparatus left the roadway onto the right shoulder. The driver applied brakes and attempted to bring the wheels back onto the roadway but over corrected left causing the apparatus to…”
The rollover of an ARFF rig is similar in circumstances to another large piece of firefighting apparatus, the tender (or tanker if you are east of the Mississippi). Once you have reviewed the entire contents of this week’s featured report (CLICK HERE), consider the following:
1. Does your department include “response” type training in its training regimen?
2. Are there any special considerations, training or instruction provided to drivers of your department’s larger apparatus (i.e., tanker/tenders, special service rigs, etc.)?
3. Does the predrill briefing include a safety message that emphasizes personnel safety as high a priority as goal achievement?
4. During “timed” drills, who monitors performance to ensure safety supersedes all other performance aspects?
5. In this week’s report, aircraft traffic blocks the primary response route. What other obstacles/impediments do you encounter in your own jurisdiction when training on the street?
Have you been passed or nearly collide with an emergency vehicle at an intersection? Submit a report to www.firefighternearmiss.com today to prevent a tragedy tomorrow.
Note: The questions posed by the reviewers are designed to generate discussion and thought in the name of promoting firefighter safety. They are not intended to pass judgment on the actions and performance of individuals in the reports.