Emergency Vehicle Incident Prevention

Introductions • EVIP Instructor

Incident vs. Accident • The word accident implies that motor vehicle incidents are not preventable, it is quite the contrary. Almost all motor vehicle incidents are preventable and someone is almost always at fault. It is incumbent on all emergency vehicle operators to learn to be safe drivers and practice safe driving habits while operating apparatus.

VRFA

3 DOL Exemptions from CDL Rules: • • • • WSAFC EVIP Program VFIS Emergency Driving National Academy of Professional Driving Program (NAPD) NOTE: DOL approves, WSP accredits the lesson plan

The EVIP Standard • • • 26,000 GVW is the requirement for CDL or Exceptions Most agencies use it for all emergency vehicles Review of department specific policy is in the lesson

EVIP Administrative Rules • • Letter on file with State Fire Marshal Program meets standard (based on the lesson plan!)

EVIP Administrative Rules (con’t) • • • • • Jurisdiction issues certificate (WSAFC will print one for you for $1) 9703AWEVAP97PO12 must be on certificate.

Recert rules: 1-3.9

Agency approves instructors/evaluators “Like vehicles” defined by agency.

Trivia Points You Might Have Missed…….

• • 2-3.1Rodeo samples in book are “suggested” 2-3.2 Predetermined Road Course required!

Emergency Vehicle Incident Prevention

Protect – Yourself – Your Fellow Firefighters – Your community By learning to drive

Safely

To drive Department vehicles in “emergency mode,” drivers must have EVIP certification, Washington State Driver’s License, and be at least 18 years old. An EVIP road test form is required to be on file for each type of vehicle driven (engines, aid units, etc.).

To drive in the “non-emergency” mode, all of the above apply except EVIP training.

Firefighters who are not EVIP certified may only drive code yellow in the “training mode” when accompanied by an EVIP certified driver.

Program Outline • • • • • • We use the WSAFC EVIP curriculum for initial training and refresher training.

All new employees or reserve employees shall have the entire EVIP program, which comprises classroom presentation, written test, rodeo, and road test.

The Fire Chief or designee shall certify instructors to deliver the classroom presentation & rodeo.

The Fire Chief or designee shall approve company officers to evaluate the road test.

All responders shall be tested on all types of vehicles they drive (i.e. engines, trucks, aid cars).

EVIP is only required for vehicles over 26,000 GVW

Lesson One

Some Legal Aspects of Emergency Vehicle Operations

Apparatus Incident Facts • • • Over 1300 workers are killed in traffic related incidents each year On average about 20 Firefighters are killed responding to/or returning from alarms In 1999, six firefighters were killed when they were ejected from a fire apparatus.

EVIP = Emergency Vehicle Incident Prevention  We are in the business of responding to traffic incidents to help. We should be especially mindful of preventing traffic incidents. We have a great deal of responsibility and liability as firefighters to drive and reach our destination safely.

Why EVIP?

• • Congress requires commercial drivers to obtain a CDL. Each state must devise a way to ensure all commercial drivers meet the minimum standards.

EVIP qualifies emergency vehicle drivers in lieu of a CDL • In Washington State, the DOL has accepted the fire service EVIP course as an alternative for firefighters to drive emergency vehicles.

The three types types of regulations that emergency vehicle operators must follow: 1. Motor vehicle and traffic laws ( RCWs ) enacted by the state government.

2. Local ordinances.

3. Departmental policy.

Three principles of emergency vehicle operation: 1.Emergency vehicle operators are subject to all traffic regulations unless a specific exemption is made. 2.Exemptions are legal only in the emergency mode.

3.Even with an exemption, the operator can be found criminally or civilly liable if involved in a traffic incident.

State statutes concerning emergency vehicle operation.

• The law applies to me.

The law applies to me

• While there are laws on the books which allow us to operate emergency vehicles and give us some freedom of action the general public does not have, there are also in each section “catch phrases” which place the ultimate liability on our shoulders. • So essentially, the traffic laws as written apply to each and every one of us, emergency responder or not.

In other words,

The BIG PRINT gives it to you, the little print takes it away.

The BIG PRINT

gives it to you: While responding to an alarm, you may: • • • • Park or stand your vehicle irrespective of all other laws to the contrary.

Proceed past red lights and stop signs.

Exceed the maximum speed limits.

Disregard regulations governing the direction of movement of traffic or turning in specific directions regardless of posted signs or regulations to the contrary.

However, the little print takes it away.

The RCW (Revised Code of Washington) reads that “the driver of an authorized emergency vehicle, when responding to an emergency call or responding to but not returning from a fire alarm, may exercise the privileges set forth,

but subject to the conditions herein stated.” RCW 46.61.035

Look at the “little print.”

While the emergency vehicle operator may “proceed past a red or stop signal or stop sign,” they may do so

“only after slowing down as may be necessary for safe operation.”

And the emergency vehicle operator may “exceed the maximum speed limits

so long as he does not endanger life or property

.” RCW 46.61.035

Furthermore,

The RCW continues, “the exemptions . . . granted to an authorized emergency vehicle

signals shall apply only when such vehicle is making use of visual

meeting the requirements of RCW 46.37.190” and “emergency vehicles

shall use audible signals when necessary to warn others of the emergency nature of the situation.”

More

little print: The provisions granted emergency vehicles “

shall not relieve the driver. . . from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons, nor shall such provisions protect the driver from the consequences of his reckless disregard for the safety of others

.” (RCW 46.61.035 (4))

You should now be able to see what is meant by BIG print and little print: The big print gives you some freedom of action, but the little print still holds you liable for careless actions!!

A True Emergency • Drivers of emergency vehicles will greatly reduce the chances of being found guilty of negligence if they are reasonably certain that a situation represents a

emergency

in the state statutes.

true

before exercising the exemptions granted

Is this a true emergency?

• • ASK, • Is there a high probability that this situation could cause death or serious injury to an individual?

Is there significant property imperiled?

Could action on my part reduce the seriousness of the situation?

Once you have made the decision to treat a situation as a true emergency, Remember that under all circumstances, according to the RCW (State laws), you must exercise due regard for the safety of others.

Besides state traffic laws which govern all drivers and have sections which apply to emergency vehicle drivers, • We are also responsible for following other State regulations--most notably the State Labor and Industry’s Safety Standards for Firefighters.

Furthermore

• Besides RCWs and WAC’s we are also bound by: –Local ordinances –Department policy

Department Policy • Review your department policy, if applicable, now.

The Issue of Liability

• • Courts apportion blame if you should be driving an emergency vehicle when involved in a wreck.

They look at the case and determine who and what contributed to the incident. They assign a percentage of blame to each party.

For example: • • They may say that the “other” driver was 40% to blame; the fire department 40% to blame; and the emergency vehicle operator 20% to blame.

They look at the dollar award and assign the percentages accordingly .

Fire Dept.

40% YOU 20% Other Driver 40%

If the “other” driver is asking for $1,000,000 in damages for alleged harm due to an incident with an emergency vehicle, the award would be as follows:

• • • “Other” driver, 40% = No award.

Fire department, 40% = $400,000 Emergency vehicle driver ( YOU, PERSONALLY ), 20% = $200,000

If an emergency vehicle operator were driving in excess of the established rules adopted by their fire department, or without due regard for the safety of others, then that emergency vehicle operator could be held personally responsible.

This would be especially true if the court-awarded compensation was in excess of the limits of the department’s insurance coverage.

What problems might a person encounter after an incident?

• • • • • Possible individual financial responsibility.

Possible criminal penalties.

Uncertainty of outcome.

Months and/or years of mental strain on the individual and family.

Grief, if you took a life or seriously injured someone.

Other Legal Stuff: • • • A fire department has an obligation to ensure that its drivers are not only qualified under EVIP, but are also safe drivers.

So, departments may review a candidate’s or employee’s driving record.

The employee so. must give authorization for release of his/her driving record. However, many departments obtain blanket permission from employees to review driving records whenever the employer chooses to do

As if driving an emergency vehicle didn’t entail enough personal liability. . . The state of Washington grants NO special driving privileges to firefighters driving their own private vehicles.

No special privileges in private vehicles: • • • • Volunteer or paid Responding to an alarm Reporting back to work on a recall Green light or license placard

In fact, the green lights and placards some departments issue to their firefighters for their personal vehicles are for identification purposes only.

• • They serve only to identify a firefighter to members of the public and law enforcement officers at the scene of an emergency.

They must be accompanied by an identification card carried in the vehicle and signed by the chief of the fire department.

Record Keeping • Fire Departments are responsible for keeping records!

What Records need to be kept? • • • • • Individual training records Qualifications on various apparatus Test results Maintenance records Purchasing specifications During an investigation or court appearance you will be required to produce records.

Summary • Drive with “Due Regard” because you will be held responsible for your actions while operating an emergency vehicle!!

Lesson Two

Concepts of Defensive Driving: A Matter of Attitude

Mental Motivation • • • Defensive driving is largely a matter of attitude Understanding how your mental state effects your driving is critical to becoming a safe driver Routine (driving in the same area every day) can cause us to become inattentive

The Five Components of the Driving Process • • • • • S can I dentify P redict D ecide E xecute S.I.P.D.E

Scan • • • Focus of attention - What the driver looks at as the deal with an ever changing environment Search rate – How frequently the driver searches the environment Search pattern – How efficiently does the driver search the environment

Identify • Identify - refers to the driver identifying potential hazard’s

Predict • Predict - refers to predicting the outcome of potential hazard’s (can I stop in time, is the car behind me to close, do I have an area to move to on the right or left)

Decide • Deciding on a course of action

Execute • Execution – refers to the basic maneuvers, braking, steering, and acceleration needed to safely maneuver the vehicle

Driver Failure Types of Driver Failure • • • • • • Carelessness Incompetence Recklessness Inattentiveness Inability to judge distances Slow reaction of drivers

A Defensive Driver • • • • Expects and makes allowances for the mistakes of others.

Keeps alert, adjusts driving to meet all hazards of weather, road, and traffic conditions.

Avoids bad habits.

Avoids following too closely.

A fire department driver must maintain a safe driving attitude • • Regardless of the contributing factors which may tend to influence him/her.

Drivers with poor attitudes usually make excuses for mistakes that’s cause property damage or injury.

ATTITUDE!

• A good attitude is the most important requirement of being a good driver.

The driver of an emergency vehicle has responsibilities to: • • • Their own family.

The department and community.

The other crew members on board.

Driver Distractions • • • • Auditory - radio, phone ringing, someone talking. Any one of these can create a distraction and cause the driver to loose focus on the driving environment. Physical – the removal of one or both hands from the steering wheel to interact with the vehicle.

Cognitive – thoughts that cause the driver to be distracted from driving the vehicle.

Visual – blocked vision or visual distractions.

S.I.P.D.E

Defensive Driving Methods • • • Predict the unpredictable Expect the unexpected Handle problems • • SIPDE – S can, I dentify, P redict, D ecide, E xecute Defensive driving can be defined as observing

the presence and intentions of other traffic to avoid incidents.

Defensive Driving Traits There are a number of attitudes and traits that describe a defensive driver • • • • • Knowledge-Do you know the traffic laws? Alertness-Are you aware of your surroundings?

Foresight-Do you look ahead when driving?

Judgment-Doing things at the right time?

Skill-Do you know how to handle the vehicle you are driving?

Lesson Three

Important Physical Forces

Vehicle Control While driving, an operator can only control a vehicle’s velocity (speed) and direction.

Several physical forces influence the amount of control the operator has: • • If the limits created by the physical force are not exceeded, the operator can fully control both the emergency vehicle’s velocity and direction. If they are exceeded, control will be lost.

Define the following • • • • Velocity Centrifugal Force Inertia Friction

Velocity/Inertia • Speed/Remaining in motion until influenced by outside forces

Centrifugal Force • • • Away from center This is the force that tends to push a body in curvilinear motion away from the center of curvature or axis of rotation.

This applies to the “push” that occurs when carrying to much speed into a corner. The driver is unable to keep the apparatus in the center of the corner.

Friction • Resistance to slipping

You can exceed the physical limits and lose control by • • • • Driving too fast for conditions.

Braking inappropriately.

Changing direction too abruptly.

Tracking a curve at too high a speed.

Weight Transfer • Every time an emergency vehicle accelerates, decelerates, or changes direction, the weight distribution of the vehicle shifts. This is referred to as weight transfer .

Weight Transfer When Braking A • • Imagine a fulcrum under the vehicle’s center of gravity.

When braking, the downward force at A (front) is increased, placing more weight on the front tires.

Weight Transfer When Accelerating • • Downward force at B (rear) is increased.

More weight and traction at rear tires (unless they are spinning).

B

Effects of Changing Direction On Weight Transfer • • We’re all familiar with the way a vehicle “leans” outside in a curve.

This is a manifestation of centrifugal force.

Centrifugal Force and Weight Transfer • Centrifugal force places more of the weight of the vehicle on the side toward the outside of a curve (on a right hand turn, the weight is greater on the left side wheels).

Weight Transfer + Centrifugal Force + Braking • In a right hand curve, with most of the weight on the left side tires, what happens if you then apply the brakes?

In a right hand curve with the brakes applied, • • The vehicle’s weight transfers again, from center to front. Thus most of the vehicle’s weight is on the left front tire.

What can happen if these forces overwhelm the vehicle and driver?

• • The left front tire can tear off the rim.

The left front tire will act like a pivot and the vehicle will spin out of control around that tire.

Weight transfer is also complicated by the location of the vehicle’s center of gravity.

• • • With a high center of gravity, the weight transfer is more pronounced.

The possibility of rolling over is increased.

To improve the center of gravity, load equipment as low as possible.

Weight transfer is complicated by “live” loads.

• “Live” loads (loads that shift quickly with changes in direction, such as pumpers and tenders with unbaffled water tanks) can push a vehicle from the intended track as weight shifts.

Another important physical force: Friction Friction = the resistance to slipping.

• It occurs when two surfaces rub together.

Friction occurs throughout a vehicle: Between tires and road surface Between driver’s hands and wheel 11 12 1 10 2 9 3 8 7 6 5 4 Engine parts rubbing together.

Gears meshing.

Brake shoes or pads rubbing on drum or disc.

Friction is necessary for vehicle control.

• The most important areas of friction are: –Between the tires and the road –Between the brakes and the wheels.

Tires must roll in order for a driver to control a vehicle’s direction.

Friction in the Brakes • • Brake shoes pressing on the drums (or pads clamping the disc) create friction and slow the wheel.

Friction at the brake surfaces generates heat.

Brake Fade • Brake fade is caused by overheating.

– Sustained hard braking heats up the brakes.

– The brake pedal becomes harder to apply.

– Then the brakes can fail entirely.

Preventing brake fade - Disc Brakes • • • In disc brakes, the pad makes contact with only 15% of the disc surface, so about 85% of the disc surface is cooling at any time.

Disc brakes permit more effective cooling than drum brakes.

The biggest cause of brake fade in disc brakes is worn pads.

15%

Disc surface cooling

85%

Pad contacting disc

Preventing brake fade - Disc Brakes • • Worn pads allow heat to transfer to the hydraulic fluid Disc pads that are 50% worn have a 300% greater chance of causing fade.

• • • Preventing brake fade - Drum Brakes Drum surface in Almost drum 90% of the total surface is in contact with the brake shoe at one time.

Only 10% of the surface can be cooling off at any one time.

Drum brakes cool much less effectively than disc brakes.

Only contact with brake shoe

90% 10%

of drum surface is cooling

Emergency Braking

• • Get the vehicle to stop in the shortest possible distance without locking the wheels or losing control.

Use different techniques depending on the type of brakes.

Emergency braking - Hydraulic Brakes

• Apply hard pressure to the brake pedal without locking the wheels.

– When pavement is dry - quick firm jabs on the pedal – When roadway is slippery - short, steady pressure; release and repeat

If wheels lock, RELEASE BRAKE PEDAL (Tires must roll in order for a driver to control a vehicle’s direction.)

Emergency Braking - Air Brakes

• • Apply a steady pressure.

Do not fan air brakes - except on slippery pavement.

– Fanning brakes contributes to brake fade due to excessive heat buildup.

wastes air pressure and

Emergency Braking - ABS Brakes

• Apply a steady, even pressure.

Velocity and Friction

• • While accelerating – Spinning the wheels reduces friction; acceleration is slowed.

While braking – Best braking point is just short of locking the wheels.

One reason locked wheels have less friction than rolling wheels is because little beads of rubber come off the locked, skidding tires and act as ball bearings for the vehicle to slide on.

Locked Wheel

Road Surface

Beads of rubber

Friction and Changing Direction

• Friction between the tires and road surface is necessary to control the vehicle’s direction.

– Tires must be rolling to change the vehicle’s direction.

– If the brakes lock the front wheels, turning the steering wheel will have no impact on the direction the vehicle travels.

Momentum and Inertia • • • Momentum is the product of a vehicle’s mass (weight) and its velocity (speed).

Inertia is the force that makes a moving vehicle tend to stay in motion in the same direction.

As momentum increases (with a heavier vehicle or faster speed or both), it is harder to overcome the effects of inertia.

Momentum and inertia affect vehicle control.

• With increased momentum, that is, as speed increases or a bigger vehicle is involved, – Stopping distance increases.

– Brakes must work harder; friction and heat increase.

– Inertia will be harder to overcome. Therefore, changing direction is more difficult.

– The track the vehicle will follow must be wider.

Centrifugal Force and Inertia We want to go around the curve.

EV wants to go this way.

Centrifugal force and inertia combine to cause the vehicle to tend to go straight. The greater the vehicle’s mass and velocity (momentum) and the tighter the curve, the greater this effect.

Lesson Four

Driving Conditions and Contingencies

What is a Driving Contingency?

• “A chance, collision, or possibility conditional on something uncertain” Examples:  Traffic suddenly and abruptly stopping  Ice on the roadway  Out of control vehicle

A longer reaction time will help you avoid a collision when a driving contingency occurs

What is a safe following distance?

• The Three Second Rule: keep a separation of at least three seconds between the emergency vehicle and the vehicle being followed.

Start count when the vehicle in front of you passes a marker on or beside the road. “One thousand-one.” 7 “One thousand-two.” Fixed Object 7 “One thousand-three.” 7

When should following distance be increased?

• • • • • • • If the vehicle ahead is unusual.

If your vehicle is large or heavy.

If road surface is loose or slippery.

If your vision is obscured.

If you are tired.

If road surface is snowy or icy.

And especially in adverse weather conditions

Speed 25 MPH 35 MPH 45 MPH 55 MPH 65 MPH 75 MPH Feet per second 37 52 66 81 96 111 Good weather conditions (3 seconds) Marginal weather conditions (6 seconds) Poor weather conditions (9 seconds) 111 ft 166 ft 222 ft 312 ft 333 ft 498 ft 198 ft 243 ft 288 ft 333 ft 396 ft 486 ft 576 ft 666 ft 594 ft 729 ft 864 ft 999 ft

Following Distance and Adverse Weather Conditions • Following distance should be increased proportionately to the severity of the prevailing weather conditions.

Wet or rainy weather increases the hazard.

600% 500% 400% 300%

• Approximately six times are killed on roads more people wet than on snowy and icy roads combined.

200% 100% 0% Deaths on Snowy and Icy Roads Deaths on Wet Roads

Winter Driving • Prepare in advance: – Engine tuned – Heater/defroster in good working order – Battery charged – Snow tires and/or chains available – Brakes adjusted – Accessible emergency weather equipment • Chains, shovel, sand – Clean all windows, inside and out

Tips for driving on snow and ice: • • Stay aware of temperature.

“Wet” ice and freezing rain are the most treacherous of driving conditions.

“Wet” ice and freezing rain are the most treacherous of driving conditions.

• • “Wet” ice and freezing rain occur when the temperature hovers around the freezing point (28 degrees F to 40 degrees F).

Remember: road bridges freeze before the road approaches.

Prepare for Contingency Situations • Primary causes of contingency situations: – Vehicle malfunctions or failures – A sudden change or deterioration in the roadway – The appearance of an obstacle in the roadway – Driver error

Precautions to Help Prevent Contingencies • Reduce the chance of a vehicle malfunction or failure by: – Completing a thorough vehicle inspection – Having any problems found repaired promptly – Monitoring to detect new problems

Precautions to Prevent Contingencies • Be aware of any changes in road conditions (weather, damage, construction, etc.).

– Remain alert.

– Scan well ahead of your vehicle.

– Look for clues: construction signs, skid marks.

– Know the area.

Precautions for Contingencies • Be prepared for the appearance of an obstacle in the roadway.

– Maintain a safe speed.

– Search for obvious clues.

• School zone signs, heavy pedestrian traffic – Watch for subtle clues.

• • • Toys, bikes on lawns (even w/no children visible) Vapor from exhaust or parked cars Back-up lights on parked cars

Precautions for Contingencies • Attempt to head off driver error.

– Begin shift well rested and w/out personal stress.

– Remain alert.

– Avoid unnecessary risks.

– Don’t panic.

Handling contingencies- Evasive Steering Maneuvers • • • • Driver’s hands should be on the steering wheel at possible turn without moving the hands.

the 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions. This allows the largest Turn the steering wheel in the direction of escape route.

Counter steer as soon as vehicle is clear of obstacle.

Avoid hard braking--hard braking can lock the wheels, and locked wheels won’t steer.

9 10 8 11 12 7 6 1 2 3 5 4 Hand Position

• • • Handling contingencies- Handling Skids Do not apply brakes.

Maintain speed or slowly reduce speed (do not accelerate).

Counter steer - steer in the direction to which the rear end of the vehicle is skidding.

– A common panic reaction is to turn the wheel violently to correct a skid. This tends to produce back and forth skidding (fishtailing).

– Once the wheel has been turned to counter steer, it may be necessary to immediately counter steer in the opposite direction.

Handling Skids The vehicle is going straight.

The back end of the vehicle skids around to the left. (The vehicle is still moving forward at an angle.)

You’d steer LEFT, in the direction you want the vehicle to go relative to the way it’s facing.

The vehicle is back on course.

The back end fishtails to the right.

To control fishtailing in the opposite direction, you’d countersteer RIGHT to help get you back on course.

Steering control is reestablished.

Handling Contingencies • Evasive acceleration –A maneuver that is often forgotten.

–Some incidents can be best avoided by increasing your speed and getting out of the way.

Handling Contingencies “Emergency Braking” • • Stopping distance quadruples as speed doubles A vehicle traveling 20 MPH will have a stopping distance of 20’, a vehicle traveling 40 MPH will have a stopping distance of 80’

Speed

20 MPH 30 MPH 40 MPH 50 MPH 55 MPH 60 MPH 65 MPH 70 MPH 75 MPH

Feet per second

29 44 59 73 81 88 95 103 110

Perception Reaction Distance

44 ft 66 ft 88 ft 110 ft 121 ft 132 ft 143 ft 154 ft 165 ft

Handling contingencies- Unavoidable Collisions • • • • Choose the object you will collide with.

Choose the course least likely to cause injury or death.

Avoid head-on collisions--these are the most damaging to life and property.

Steer to cause your vehicle to sideswipe or hit the other object at an angle.

Handling contingencies- Unavoidable Collisions • Avoid hitting large, immobile objects (ex: concrete bridge abutments, buildings, large trees, utility poles).

Handling contingencies- Unavoidable Collisions • Choose impact absorbing objects (ex: parked cars, low bushes and shrubs).

Each of the following slides illustrates a potential accident situation.

• The actions that can be taken include: – Emergency braking – Evasive steering – Evasive acceleration – No action

What would be the appropriate response for this situation?

The actions that can be taken include: Emergency braking Evasive steering Evasive acceleration No action 7 E11 Gravel shoulder

What would be the appropriate response for this situation?

The actions that can be taken include: Emergency braking Evasive steering Evasive acceleration No action E11 25 mph

What would be the appropriate response for this situation?

The actions that can be taken include: Emergency braking Evasive steering Evasive acceleration No action E27

What would be the appropriate response for this situation?

The actions that can be taken include: Emergency braking Evasive steering Evasive acceleration No action 45 MPH E27 55 MPH

What would be the appropriate response for this situation?

The actions that can be taken include: Emergency braking Evasive steering Evasive acceleration No action E34

If you must pull off the road- • • Due to adverse weather, a contingency situation, or an emergency response, park so as to “protect the scene.” This enables you to – Get the emergency vehicle off the road.

– Limit access to the scene to police officers and firefighters.

– Provide visible early warning to surrounding traffic.

Park so as to protect the scene • • • • Use warning devices -- choose the most effective for the situation. Most effective: Triangular reflectors, flares, fuses, reflectorized traffic cones, etc. Use caution when employing flares: make certain no flammable liquids are present.

Okay: Overhead beacon, four-way flashers, cab lights.

Poor: Headlights, parking lights.

Night Driving • Use caution: it is harder for both you and others to see at night.

Night Driving - High Potential for Fatal Incidents

70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Percentage of total accidents Percentage of fatalities Day Night

Night Driving Fatalities • Nearly 1/2 (47%) of all fatalities occur at night, but less than one third of all collisions occur at night. Thus, a much higher proportion of night time collisions result in fatalities.

Night Driving and Drunk Drivers • • Be on guard against drunk drivers.

Indicators include: – Time of day: especially 23:00-03:00 – Weaving across lanes – Delayed start at a stop sign or traffic light – Erratic speed

Night Driving and Use of High Beams • Use headlights and high beams appropriately.

– It is recommended headlights be on at all times. (Headlights are required to be on and operating as part of the emergency lights while responding in a “code red” response.) – Dim high beams within 500 feet of approaching vehicles.

– Dim high beams within 300 feet of overtaking or following other vehicles.

Lesson Five

Operating Apparatus: Vehicle Control Tasks

To Review • Lights and sirens are used to inform traffic and pedestrians of an emergency vehicle’s presence and thus, to aid in clearing a path for the emergency vehicle.

To Review • • • Due regard must always be exercised, even during the most serious of emergencies.

State law requires the emergency vehicle to use emergency lights whenever any of the exemptions are exercised.

Use of signaling equipment does not guarantee an operator safety, nor does it free him/her from the possibility of civil or criminal liability if an incident occurs.

Sirens - Limitations on Effectiveness • • • Usually siren sound travels forward from the vehicle in a cone shape.

The higher the sound frequency , the narrower the cone and the greater the distance the siren can be heard (ex: electronic sirens).

The lower the frequency , the wider the cone of sound (ex: mechanical or growler type sirens).

Sirens - Limitations on Effectiveness • • • Siren sounds do not travel well around buildings or corners.

A study has shown that existing sirens are effective only to vehicles traveling in the same direction ahead of the emergency vehicle and to pedestrians.

Even at fairly close range, the siren may not be heard by motorists with windows up, air conditioning on, or radio on.

Keys to Successful Urban Driving • Keep alert watch for: – Children – Alleys – Exhaust from parked cars – Crosswalks

Keys to Successful Urban Driving • Be cautious of other motorists’ actions, they may: – Signal turns or lane changes without doing so.

– Turn or change lanes without signaling.

– Try to beat a light, going through as it changes.

NOTE: • In spite of the way motorists signal, look at the direction they are looking, the way the vehicle is pointing, if they are slowing accordingly, and if their actions agree with their signaled intentions.

Urban Driving in the Emergency Mode • • • Speeds in excess of limit are rarely justified.

Reasonable speed allows more time to react.

Use lights and siren effectively.

Keys to Successful Rural Driving • • • • Control your speed Know your response area Be aware of upcoming turns Watch for vehicles pulling on to roads from side streets and driveways Emergency vehicles in a rural setting can roll over easily due to a high center of gravity and shifting loads. Store equipment low if possible and WATCH

YOUR SPEED!!!

Motorists’ Reactions to Lights and Sirens • • Generally, they will try to pull to their right and slow down or stop.

Some motorists, however, will do senseless, unexpected things.

Handling Confused Motorists • • • Discontinue the use of the siren, give them a chance to think.

Tap horn or flash lights to try to establish eye contact.

Once eye contact has been established, give hand or verbal signal indicating what action motorist should take.

Handling Unaware Motorists • • • • • • Beware of startling unsuspecting motorists.

Vary siren pitch and duration.

Use headlights, horn, or spotlight to get attention.

Be patient, keep signaling.

Never pass on the right.

In extreme cases, it may be necessary for a crew member to get out and direct traffic.

Handling Blocked Traffic • • • • • Try to plan ahead : if possible, during rush hours, construction and special events, use alternate routes.

Slow down before reaching blockage.

Use siren intermittently.

Be patient.

Do not travel in opposing lanes unless you see traffic is cleared for at least one block.

Negotiating Intersections • • Intersections are the most likely areas for fatal incidents.

Before crossing an intersection, you must make sure there is an adequate gap in traffic.

Crossing an Intersection • • • • From a full stop, most vehicles require about four (4) seconds to cross a two (2) lane intersection that is 30 feet wide.

For larger vehicles, time varies depending on size, weight, and the ability to accelerate.

The operator should look left, then right, then left again before crossing.

Cars approaching from either direction should be at least six seconds from the intersection.

Cars approaching from either direction should be at least six seconds from the intersection.

6 Second Gap 30 feet 6 Second Gap

STOP

34

Right Turns from an Intersection • • • From a stop, it takes about six seconds to turn right and accelerate to 30 mph.

When the operator begins the turn, any vehicle approaching from the left should be at least seven to eight seconds away from the intersection.

In faster traffic, a larger gap is required for safety.

When the operator begins the right hand turn, any vehicle approaching from the left should be 7-8 seconds away from the intersection.

8 second gap

STOP

34 2 second following distance

STOP

In faster traffic, a larger gap is required.

Left turns at intersections require a larger gap than right turns because of the need to cross traffic lanes .

9 Second Gap 30 MPH

STOP

11

1.

What are the hazards in the following situation?

STOP

2.

What are the effects of following too closely when approaching an intersection?

STOP STOP

By dropping back to a safer following distance, the emergency vehicle driver can see all the potential hazards and one of the stop signs.

STOP STOP

3. What are the hazards in this situation?

Building A B

Building A B •Vehicle “B” does not see or hear emergency vehicle. (The building blocks most of the siren sound.) •If the emergency vehicle does not slow down almost to a stop at the intersection, a collision is probable.

•One useful trick is for the emergency vehicle operator to look under the wheels of truck “A.” He/she might see “B” in time to take appropriate action.

4. What are the hazards in this situation?

One Way A B

One Way A B Driver “A” looks left before turning right. Driver “A” does not expect any oncoming traffic from the right. How can the emergency vehicle driver avoid such problems?

One Way A B •Sirens help here.

•Never pull into an oncoming lane at an intersection.

•Stay far enough behind the vehicle in front of the emergency vehicle (“B”) to permit a good view of the intersection.

Passing Other Vehicles • • First ask yourself if passing is necessary.

How long does it take to pass?

– At highway speeds, a safe pass can be completed in 10 seconds.

– A 10-second pass requires 1/6 mile at 60 mph.

– Due to the possibility of an oncoming vehicle, operator must allow 1/3 mile of visible roadway before initiating a pass.

Passing Other Vehicles • • Learn to judge distances.

Know the characteristics of your vehicle.

– Its accelerative capacity – Its steering precision – Its braking capability

Passing Other Vehicles • Know indicators of unsafe conditions for passing.

• • • • • • • Informational signs Bad weather/visibility Road markings Presence of roadways or driveways Road configuration--hills, blind curves Know your area Never pass a stopped car (or line of cars) without first determining why it is stopped.

Passing in the Emergency Mode • • Since motorists will attempt to pull over, the need to pass may be reduced.

If conditions are questionable for passing, consider: – How important is saving time?

• Are you responding to an out-of-control fire in an apt. building or a brush fire in an isolated field?

– How much time will really be saved by passing?

– If passing is delayed for a few moments, might conditions improve?

• • • Lane markings may change.

Traffic may thin out.

Road configuration may improve (e.g. from curves to straight).

Backing Up • • Backing-up mishaps account for a large proportion of emergency vehicle incidents.

Park so backing is minimized or eliminated.

When the vehicle must be backed: • • • Crew members shall be stationed in such a position as to assist the driver.

At night, use backup or rear-deck lights to illuminate the rear area behind the vehicle. Back up person should use appropriate hand signals.

When the vehicle must be backed: • • • • Roll down the driver’s window to allow direct communication w/backup person.

Check for pedestrians and obstacles.

Back SLOWLY (as if you are expecting to hit something).

Constantly check mirrors for changes in the traffic situations or obstacles.

Vehicle Clearances • • • Know the height, width and length of the vehicle. – (L & I Vertical Standard 305 requires the height of the vehicle to be posted on the dash.) Know the turning radius, and length of front and rear overhangs.

Maximum length 40’ , maximum width 8’6” , maximum height 14’

Know Normal Stopping Distances

600 500 400 300 200 Sedans Light trucks Heavy 2 axles 100 3-axles 0

Stopping Distance in Feet From 60 MPH • • Assume 3/4 second time.

driver reaction Stopping distances on hard, dry surface, from 60 mph: – Sedans - about 355 feet – Light trucks - about 426 feet – Heavy 2 axle - about 436 feet – 3 axle - about 531 feet

60 MPH 1/6 Mile in 10 Seconds 60 MPH 34 1/6 Mile in 10 Seconds 1/3 Mile Total distance used in 10 seconds by vehicles approaching each other at 60 mph.

Lesson 6

Traffic Safety Protecting People While Stabilizing The Incident

Lesson Objectives Upon Completion of this lesson, the student will be able to: • Perform an incident scene safety Risk Assessment • Develop a Risk Management plan to address scene safety • Identify stopping distances for various sizes of vehicles • Identify components of a Temporary Traffic Control Zone • • Establish a safe working environment using effective traffic control devices Identify safety procedures when working in or near moving traffic

Identifying, Assessing & Managing Risk Upon approaching the scene: Identify hazards and develop a plan to protect the scene

Identifying, Assessing & Managing Risk Expect other drivers to make mistakes Consider the type of roadway you will be working on (i.e. freeway vs. city street) Weather conditions (dry vs. wet road or good vs. poor visibility) Time of day (or night) (scene and personal visibility and proper use of lighting)

Identifying, Assessing & Managing Risk What is Risk Assessment ?

“Assessing or determining the possibility of suffering harm or loss, and to what extent” This is the first step in determining your plan of action

Identifying, Assessing & Managing Risk What is Risk Management ?

“The development of strategy and tactical plans based on an accurate risk assessment taking into consideration current and potentially changing scene conditions”

Driver Reaction Time Components of reaction time Mental Processing Time: • Sensation • Perception / Recognition • Situational Awareness • Response Selection

Driver Reaction Time Components of reaction time Movement Time: The time required to perform the selected action

Driver Reaction Time Components of reaction time Device Response Time: The functional time of a mechanical device to activate

MPH 30

40

50

60

70

80

Stopping Distances Dry Pavement Passenger Vehicle Ft. / Sec.

44

59

73.3

88

102.7

117.3

Braking Deceleration Distance 43

76

119

172

234

305

Perception Reaction Distance 66

88

110

132

154

176

Total Stopping Distance 109

164

229

303

388

481

60 60 60 60 MPH Stopping Distances Dry Pavement Passenger Vehicle Car Ft. / Sec.

Braking Deceleration Distance Perception Reaction Distance Total Stopping Distance Passenger Vehicle Light Truck Heavy 2 Axle 3 Axle 303’ 426’ 436’ 531’

Stopping Distances The preceding charts do not take into consideration any Human factors Or Vehicle Maintenance factors That may increase total stopping distance

Stopping Distances Adverse weather and night time driving may also increase total stopping distance

Temporary Traffic Control Zone Provides reasonably safe and efficient movement of traffic.

Reasonably protects workers, responders to traffic incidents, and their equipment.

Temporary Traffic Control Zone Components of a TTC Zone 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Advance Warning Area Transition Area Activity Area Buffer Space Termination Area

Temporary Traffic Control Zone Advance Warning Area • Tells drivers what to expect ahead.

• Typical distances for placement of advance warning signs on high speed roadways should be longer because drivers are conditioned to uninterrupted flow.

Temporary Traffic Control Zone Transition Area • Moves traffic out of its normal path and away from the activity area.

Temporary Traffic Control Zone Activity Area • This is where the work takes place.

• This also includes your Buffer Space

Temporary Traffic Control Zone Buffer Space • Separates traffic from your work area.

• Also provides some recovery area for an errant vehicle.

• Neither work nor equipment storage should occur in the Buffer Space.

Temporary Traffic Control Zone Termination Area • Returns traffic back to their normal path beyond the incident scene.

• Should include its own Buffer Space.

Flagger Tra ns ition Are a Ad va nc e Warni ng A re a Bu ffe r S pac e Component Parts of a Temporary Traffic Control Zone Activ ity Are a Flagger

AID

Ter mi nation Are a

Flagger Vehicle near the shoulder - - Consider moving the vehicle off the roadway if it can be done safely SHOULDER AREA Vehicle near the shoulder - - Block as much of the traffic lane as necessary for emergency worker safety Flagger

AID

Flagger

AID

Move vehicles off the roadway if it can be safely done.

Vehicles on both shoulders - - Use all available resources to control traffic Flagger

AID Diagram #6

Flagger

AID

Vehicles on a curve - - Allow for plenty of Advance Warning Flagger

Protect the scene with your vehicles - - Use trained personell to direct traffic as necessary

Po lic e Polic e Po lic e

Intersection Incident - - Use all available resources for TTC Zone for personnel safety

Diagram #4

AID AID

Freeway Incident - - Consider use of DOT to assist in traffic control

AID AID

Freeway Incident - - Consider use of DOT to assist in traffic control

Diagram #1 AID

Vehicles blocking all lanes - - For emergency personnel safety, block the roadway.

Traffic may be re routed along the shoulder if it is safe to do so and there are enough resources on scene to facilitate this TTC Zone.

Flagger Flagger

Traffic Control Devices • Used to warn or guide road users • Provides for the orderly movement of traffic

Traffic Control Devices Should meet 5 basic requirements: • • • • • Fulfill a need Command attention Convey a clear, simple meaning Command respect from road users Give adequate time for proper response

Channelizing Devices Traffic Cones

Channelizing Devices Minimize the possibility of the cones being blown over Double up on the cones to increase their weight if needed

Channelizing Devices Traffic cones should have a retro reflective band that is no less than 4 inches in height

Channelizing Devices Minimum traffic cone height of 28 inches

Channelizing Devices Placing a flare in front of the cone at night increases the visibility of the cone

Placement of Traffic Control Devices The road user should have adequate time to make a proper response in both day and night conditions

Placement of Traffic Control Devices Should be in a uniform and consistent manner

Placement of Traffic Control Devices

Placement of Traffic Control Devices Your apparatus is also a traffic control device

Placement of Apparatus • • Place within the Activity Area Uniform and consistent with other traffic control devices

Placement of Apparatus • • • • Physical protection barrier to secondary collisions Protection of the pump operator Protection of the crews Protection of the citizens

Placement of Apparatus Fire engines and other large apparatus • • • Park at a 45 degree angle Exposes more surface area to absorb an impact from an errant vehicle Provides a “wall” of protection

Placement of Apparatus Transport vehicles • • Park within the Activity Area Downstream or in the shadow of the fire engine

Placement of Apparatus Transport vehicles • • • • Downstream: Parallel with traffic Ease of loading gurney into vehicle Clear access to roadway when leaving for transport

Placement of Apparatus When the fire engine is to be staffed with a pump operator/engineer Park at a 45 degree angle with the pump panel (drivers side) facing the Activity Area

Night Time Visibility At the incident scene Common misconception: The more warning lights that are flashing, the better we can be seen

Night Time Visibility At the incident scene The reality is: The warning lights can be seen very well Drivers get “drawn in” to the lights Personnel visibility is reduced when they are overcome by excessive emergency lights

Night Time Visibility At the incident scene Turn off all unnecessary warning lights Excessive warning lights may: Cause a distraction to drivers ~ ~ ~ Act as a deadly attraction to drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Night Time Visibility At the incident scene Turn off all unnecessary headlights When parked at the scene Excessive headlights may: Be blinding to oncoming traffic and Cause personnel to be nearly invisible to oncoming drivers when they stand or walk in-between the headlights and the oncoming traffic

Night Time Visibility At the incident scene Turn off all unnecessary headlights when parked at the scene

Night Time Visibility At the incident scene Use vehicle mounted floodlights to light the scene • • • • Provides a safer working environment Reduces distraction to traffic drivers caused by warning lights Do not aim the floodlights into the path of traffic drivers Ensure the floodlighting does not produce a disabling glare to traffic

Night Time Visibility At the incident scene Use vehicle mounted floodlights to light the scene

Key Elements of

Personnel Safety

Training • • Practice traffic safety risk assessments Establish safe working environments

Key Elements of

Personnel Safety

Emergency Responder Safety Apparel All personnel exposed to the risks of moving traffic shall wear a high visibility vest day or night

Key Elements of

Personnel Safety

Emergency Responder Safety Apparel • • • Provides more retro-reflective area for better visibility than firefighting turnout gear Visibility of personnel is increased during daylight hours with the use of a high visibility vest It’s the law!

Key Elements of Personnel Safety Incident Scene Traffic Barriers • • • • • Should be appropriately placed giving consideration to : Clearance of personnel from moving traffic Speed of traffic Duration and type of operations Time of day Volume of traffic

Key Elements of Personnel Safety • • • • • Speed Reduction Minimizes vulnerability of personnel and can be accomplished by: Lane reduction Funneling traffic Uniformed officers or flaggers to control traffic Electronic signs DOT incident response vehicles

Key Elements of Personnel Safety The responsibility personnel of safety is shared among after the incident all from the moment the emergency brake is set until it is released to clear the scene

Expect drivers to make mistakes and prepare for them

Lesson 7 Apparatus Inspections

• A daily apparatus inspection should be performed in drive.

two stages.

– The primary inspection is a basic safety inspection to determine if the vehicle is ready to – The secondary inspection checks the readiness of the vehicle and identifies possible points of failure.

The Daily Inspection • Primary    Check overall condition of vehicle Check underneath for leaking fluids Check tires, oil level, primer fluid, seat belts, adjust driver’s seat and mirrors.

• Secondary    Start apparatus and allow to warm up.

Check all gauges, exterior lighting, sirens, horns, windows, water tank level.

Check all equipment, ladders, ropes, SCBAs, aid kits, oxygen, suction units, stretchers, mileage.

 Initial the inspection sheet.

The Weekly Inspection • Bleed air tanks.

• Check undercarriage, transmission oil, water lines, windshield wipers, tires, batteries, ground ladders, portable equipment, SCBAs, first aid supplies, oxygen.

• Operate engine and pump.

• Initial the inspection sheet.

Daily and Weekly Inspection • Perform a daily and weekly inspection on an apparatus

Summary

Emergency Vehicle Incident Prevention

Summary • • • There is a lot to know about the operation of emergency vehicles.

There is too much liability involved not to know as much as we can.

We must each do our part to protect the public and our co-workers.

Summary • • • • Be mentally ready to drive Remember “Due Regard” Your responsible for your actions when you are behind the wheel!

DRIVE SAFELY!!

Comments or Questions?

Thank you!