Purpose: The purpose of this SOG is to create a uniform procedure regarding the use and operations of Truck 1

Truck 1 has been added to our pool of resources at an expense of nearly $800,000. It is important that we protect this asset and respect the fact that it is scheduled to be in our fleet for at least 25 years. While it can go a long way towards improving a fire-ground, it can also hurt or kill someone if not used correctly. Please keep all of this in mind as you consider the points of the following consolidated SOG. This is a dynamic document, refer to it often to make sure you are aware of any changes.

Minimum Requirements to Operate

§ EVOC 3, FF2, DPO, AO, Approval of Chief, Successful completion of annual maintenance and operation exam.

Strategic Use

§ Truck 1 is also our most capable pumper. It should respond to any structural call on the mountain. Truck 1 should have the primary fire-ground position except for situations requiring apparatus in a residential driveway. The only time demand which has been added by Truck 1 is the time it takes to actually deploy the ladder (less than two minutes) Even if there are only two firefighters readily available, don’t hesitate to use the truck when appropriate. The truck operator can set the truck, mount the turntable, and place the boom in position while the Engine operator establishes water supply. Using the remote controls and the platform turret, an elevated master stream can be established quickly and fire-ground operations can return to normal. All situations are different. This is merely a suggestion of what can happen.

Inclement Weather Operation

§ In general, the truck is not to be used in inclement weather. A supervisor can override this policy during a snow event. The truck is not to be used in ice.

Non-Emergent Use (other than training)

§ Requires Chief Officer Approval

Backing

§ A spotter is required. The truck is not to move in reverse until the spotter is in place. The microphone feature of the reverse camera should be utilized. Bystanders as spotters are better than no spotters. If no spotters are available, frequent 360 degree walk-around by the operator are strongly encouraged.

Backing into Station One

§ When returning to Station One, block Wintergreen Drive with your emergency lights activated. Begin your sweep from Wintergreen Drive to minimize the twisting of the rear axles and reduce tread-wear on the tires. Use the yellow stripes on the parking apron to get the truck straight before crossing over the garage door threshold.

Washing the Truck

§ The truck will be washed as needed, never using brushes, so as to preserve the gold-leaf lettering.

Fluid Level Check

§ Required daily.

Truck Mileage Log

§ This is mandatory. Every mile must be logged. Operators must operate at least once within a 60 day period to maintain a “current” status.

Use of Lifebelts

§ Required. Use the tethers when operating outside of the platform. Multiple tethers connected in a line are permitted.

Rappelling From the Platform (Non Emergent)

§ Absolutely not allowed per the manufacturer’s guidelines. However, hauling systems using the boom as an anchor point are allowed as long as they don’t exceed the weight limits of the truck.

Short Jacking

§ Not allowed. Requires a Supervisor’s override.

Use of Front Jack-Pads

§ Required

Turntable Operator

§ Use of man-saver device is required.

Collision Avoidance

§ This truck IS NOT equipped with collision avoidance. You can strike the cab or body with the boom. The turntable operator must pay very close attention to conflict areas.

Pump Operator

§ Use grounding platform.

Waterway Drain

§ Leave in the open position at all times when not flowing water.

Platform Turrets

§ Leave fog tip on the remote control nozzle and stored in the open position. Leave the straight tips on the non-remote nozzle and in the closed position. This will allow for use from the ground without having to access the platform to make any changes.

Platform Step

§ This step must always be stored in the up position. Failure to do so will result in ripping the step off when backing in the station.

Use of Egress Ladder

§ Emergency egress only while boom is extended. To add personnel, the ladder may be climbed on the first section only (approx 30’, or the height of a ground ladder). Turntable operator must confirm upper power is off and ladder is safe to climb. This policy allows for manpower or tools to be added to the platform without changing rotation or angle, only extension is affected.

Low Angle Extensions

§ Low angle extensions of over 50%. Emergency only to reduce ladder fatique.

Wheel Chock Usage

§ Required. Routine use - # 2 axle drivers side. Operations use - #2 axle both sides. Operations use with severe angle - #1 and #2 axle, downhill, both driver and officer side. Never chock the rear axle.

Response to Stoney Creek

§ Requires working fire, or commercial alarm.

Approach to the gatehouse from the Valley

§ Use only the right lane.

Approach to the gatehouse from the Parkway

§ Ask the gate officer to hold uphill traffic, obtain visual confirmation of no downhill traffic, and proceed slowly through the exit.

Response to Augusta County or Waynesboro

§ Never by way of Reeds Gap Road. Responses to Sherando or Lyndhurst will be by way of Love Gap Road off of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Responses to Waynesboro, or areas accessed from Interstate 64 will be by way of the Blue Ridge Parkway. When the Parkway is closed, responses must be by way of Route 151.

Response out of First-Due

§ Requires a 2 person crew unless at minimum staffing. Officer In Charge (OIC) must be notified. OIC notification must be made asap by personnel at Station 2. OIC will respond to the scene immediately.

Parade Attendance

§ Not allowed beyond 2008.

Funeral Attendance for Flag Deployment

§ Requires Chief Approval.

Towing or Recovery

The only company authorized to tow Truck 1 is Stoney Creek Auto Center. They may be contacted through the Wintergreen Dispatcher. Requires OIC notification.