HomeMy WebLinkAbout207.002 - Apparatus Backing Policy
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES MANUAL
APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT
207.002 APPARATUS BACKING POLICY
EFFECTIVE: OCTOBER 2007
Current Revision Date: 9/20/19 Next Revision Date: 9/20/22
Author’s Name/Rank:
Timothy J. Fulmer,
Administrative Battalion Chief Review Level: 1
Administrative Support:
Sherrie L. Badertscher,
Management Analyst II
PURPOSE
To facilitate effective communication between Fresno Fire Department (FFD or
Department) crew members who are backing fire apparatus, and to facilitate
effective communication with civilians. This is for the safety of fire members and
civilians and to prevent accidents. Communicate and be safe.
APPLICATION
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OPERATIONAL POLICY
During routine apparatus operation, when more than one (1) member is riding on an
apparatus, there shall be a backer prior the apparatus backing up.
Riding on the tailboard to facilitate backing of apparatus is prohibited.
OPERATIONAL GUIDELINE
AVOID BACKING WHENEVER POSSIBLE!
Plan the route so it will not be necessary to back up.
While operating a fire apparatus on an emergency incident, when more than one (1)
member is riding on an apparatus, there should be a backer prior to the apparatus
backing up.
Section 207.002
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Under the discretion and supervision of the company officer, members may be
situated on the hose bed and/or tailboard while the apparatus is backing, only when
large diameter hose is being loaded. At no time should the apparatus proceed faster
than idle speed. The driver should cover the brake pedal throughout this operation.
PROCESS
If backing is necessary:
1. The assisting firefighter is to wear a turnout coat, wildland jacket or
an orange safety vest over the approved Department uniform for
improved visibility.
2. A firefighter must walk around the apparatus, making certain the
area is safe.
3. The driver should immediately back up, guided by the firefighter.
4. The driver's window should be rolled down. Red lights should be
used in traffic. Hose pick up lights and/or hand lamps should be
used in the dark. All members must be alert for obstacles.
5. A firefighter will take position to the rear of the apparatus in the
driver's view. Standardized hand signals will be used. Do not rely
on shouted voice communication. Always back slowly and
continuously.
6. Frequently, check front and overhead clearances.
The driver must stop immediately when:
1. The firefighter is out of view.
2. The horn is sounded.
3. The stop hand signal is received and/or the stop command is
heard.
4. The driver's vision is distorted because of glare, darkness,
shadows, etc.
5. The word stop is displayed on the hand-held stop/slow sign.
6. A signal or command is not understood.
Section 207.002
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7. Any other danger or warning sign is acknowledged.
Hand Signals:
1. Stop.
2. Go forward.
3. Proceed/continue backing.
4. Veer left/right.
HAND SIGNALS
STOP GO FORWARD
Figure 1 Figure 2
Section 207.002
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BACK UP BACK UP
(START OF MOTION) (FINISH OF MOTION)
Figure 3 Figure 4
VEER LEFT VEER RIGHT
Figure 5 Figure 6
Section 207.002
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INFORMATION
Numerous accidents have occurred while backing fire apparatus. To ensure the
safety of civilians and fire members, effective communication is essential.
DEFINITIONS
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CROSS-REFERENCES
Standard Operation Procedures
Section 203.013, Traffic Safety
Section 208.002, Department Response Procedures
Section 207.002
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