Gordon Graham
Category: Fire

Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. And Today’s Tip is directed toward our friends in the fire service and deals with water supply apparatus and the importance of operating them safely. 

For agencies who do not have access to municipal water supply systems, the water supply apparatus is critical for extinguishing a fire. 

Having an adequate water supply for firefighting operations is one of the most important factors for winning the day at a fire. For agencies who do not have access to municipal water supply systems, the water supply apparatus is critical for extinguishing a fire.  

Some rural areas rely almost exclusively on these vehicles to provide water for firefighting operations.  

Make sure that personnel participate in a driver’s training program that will address the specific operating considerations with this type of vehicle. The training should include extensive behind the wheel time so the operator has adequate experience to develop safe driving habits under non-emergency conditions.   

Also, make sure that the apparatus that you use is safe to operate. Make sure that the water tank is baffled and the chassis is adequate to haul the weight and to support the vehicle’s weight and bring it to a safe stop.

Water supply apparatus are an important part of any fire agency’s fleet to provide critical water supply to areas without hydrants. Be sure that yours are designed for the job and personnel are properly trained to operate these vehicles safely.   

And that is Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Gordon Graham, signing off.