Driver / Operator - Test 4
Do not try to reach rated speed in the: A. low gears. B. high gears. C. drive gears. D. overdrive mode.
A
In addition to the driver/operator, how many members are required in order to load large diameter hose? A. At least one loading the hose and one acting as safety observer B. At least two loading the hose and one acting as safety observer C. At least one loading the hose and two acting as safety observers D. At least two loading the hose and two acting as safety observers
A
Keep the apparatus in low gear until the ___ is reached for shifting to a higher gear. A. proper speed B. proper pressure C. proper temperature D. proper amount of time
A
Once the apparatus is moving, how should the vehicle be accelerated? A. Gradually B. Rapidly into a higher gear C. Smoothly into a lower gear D. Rapidly to reach top rated engine rpm
A
The distance the vehicle travels from the time the brakes are applied until the apparatus comes to a complete stop A. Braking distance B. Driver/Operator reaction distance C. Driver/Operator reaction time D. Total stopping distance
A
To prevent engine damage, limit downhill speed to ___ maximum governed rpm. A. lower than B. higher than C. the manufacturer's D. 100 percent of the
A
What should be avoided in order to reduce lugging? A. Over-throttling B. Downshifting C. Clutch burnout D. Low-speed shifting
A
What should be done if a driver/operator does not have or cannot see the spotters? A. Do not back the apparatus. B. Proceed as usual, using mirrors to guide you. C. Switch on the siren in order to warn others that the apparatus is backing. D. Proceed more slowly than usual in order to reduce the possibility of a collision.
A
When should the vehicle be started so that it is warmed up when the rest of the crew is assembled and ready to respond? A. As soon as possible B. At least 3 minutes before departure C. At least 5 minutes before departure D. At least 10 minutes before departure
A
Whenever a vehicle undergoes a change in velocity or direction, weight transfer takes place relative to: A. the severity of change. B. the velocity of change. C. the direction in which change is made. D. the speed at which the apparatus is traveling.
A
Which of the following defensive driving techniques is TRUE? A. Know the rules that govern the general public when emergency vehicles are responding with warning lights and audible devices operating. B. It is safe to proceed into intersections if you have tripped the traffic signals and are certain that they are in your favor. C. When proceeding through an intersection, wait for a go-ahead signal from each of the other drivers before proceeding. D. Rely on warning sires, lights, and signals because they are most easily distinguishable from other warning devices and street noises.
A
Which of the following statements about backing a fire apparatus is TRUE? A. Whenever possible, the driver/operator should avoid backing the apparatus. B. It is often faster to back the apparatus than to drive around the block and start again. C. It is safer and easier to back the apparatus than to drive around the block and start again. D. When backing is necessary, there should be at least two firefighters assigned to communicate with the driver/operator.
A
Which of the following statements about loading large diameter hose is TRUE? A. The area in which the hose loading is performed must be closed to other vehicular traffic. B. The area in which the hose loading is performed must be cleared and swept of any debris. C. The apparatus must be driven in a backward direction at a speed no greater than 5 mph (8 km/h). D. At least one member must be standing in the hose bed in order to have complete visual contact with the hose-loading operation.
A
Which of the following statements about stopping the apparatus is FALSE? A. At an equal speed, apparatus of differing weights will stop at equal distances. B. The ability of the apparatus to stop is negatively affected by steep, wet, snowy, or icy roads. C. A vehicle with properly maintained brakes will stop faster than one with brakes in disrepair. D. It will take a greater distance to stop a vehicle that is going 50 mph than the same vehicle when it is traveling 30 mph.
A
Decreases the engine speed as needed until traction is acquired to move the chassis ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
ATC
Helps improve traction on slippery roads by reducing drive wheel overspin ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
ATC
Is engaged when a green light on the dash illuminates ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
ATC
Turns itself on and off; there is no switch for the operator to select ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
ATC
Can be used to "rock" an apparatus out of a particular spot ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
ATCS
Increases available traction on extra soft surfaces ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
ATCS
Is activated with a switch and is engaged when an indicator light on dash flashes continuously ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
ATCS
Is deactivated by pressing the switch a second time and turning off the vehicle ignition ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
ATCS
Should be deactivated when normal traction is regained ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
ATCS
List the basic concepts of defensive driving
Anticipating other drivers' actions Estimating visual lead time Knowing braking and reaction times Combating skids Knowing evasive tactics Having knowledge of weight transfer
Avoid over-speeding as a result of improper downshifting or hill descent. Choose a gear that allows the engine to operate at ___ lower than maximum recommended rpm. A. 100 or 200 rpm B. 200 or 300 rpm C. 300 or 400 rpm D. 400 or 500 rpm
B
Be aware that the ___ influences automatic shifting. A. length of the clutch shifter B. pressure placed upon the accelerator C. pressure placed upon the clutch pedal D. pressure placed upon the brake pedal
B
Except when in an atmosphere containing flammable gases or vapors, never shut down immediately after full-load operation; instead, allow the engine temperature to stabilize by idling it ___ minutes before shutdown. A. 1 to 2 B. 3 to 5 C. 5 to 8 D. 5 to 10
B
Never attempt to shut down the engine while the apparatus is in: A. low gear. B. motion. C. neutral. D. third gear.
B
Never attempt to start the apparatus moving while it is in: A. low. B. drive. C. neutral. D. reverse.
B
On sharp curves or when turning corners, shift standard transmissions into: A. overdrive. B. a lower gear. C. a higher gear. D. four-wheel drive.
B
Release the ___ slowly when starting from a standstill, avoiding vehicle rollback. A. brake B. clutch C. accelerator D. parking brake
B
Some SOPs require the driver/operator to ___ before backing a vehicle that is not equipped with an alarm system to warn others that the apparatus is backing. A. sound the siren B. sound the horn twice C. turn on emergency lights D. sound the siren and turn on emergency lights
B
Take the time to review the ___ and consider important factors that may affect the response such as road closings and traffic conditions. A. pre-incident plan B. incident location C. starting instructions D. dash gauge readings
B
The distance a vehicle travels while a driver is transferring the foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal after perceiving the need for stopping A. Braking distance B. Driver/Operator reaction distance C. Driver/Operator reaction time D. Total stopping distance
B
Weight transfer occurs as a result of: A. gravity. B. inertia. C. inaction. D. physics.
B
What should be done when approaching a visually obstructed intersection? A. Look right and left, and proceed as usual. B. Bring the apparatus to a complete stop before proceeding slowly. C. Proceed as usual if faced with a green signal light. D. Slow the apparatus to a speed that allows a stop if necessary.
B
What should be done when ascending a steep grade and momentary unavoidable lugging takes place? A. Manually shift into overdrive B. Select progressively lower gears C. Select progressively higher gears D. Increase pressure on the accelerator
B
When climbing a hill, shift the transmission to: A. overdrive. B. a lower gear. C. a higher gear. D. four-wheel drive.
B
When should riders of emergency vehicles ideally don protective gear? A. When arriving at the scene B. Before getting in the apparatus C. While riding to the scene D. Just before entering a burning building
B
Which of the following is NOT a consideration when stopping the apparatus? A. Weight of apparatus B. Length of apparatus C. Condition of brakes D. Condition of road surface
B
Which of the following should NOT be attempted? A. Downshifting at low rpm B. Jumping more than one gear at a time C. Starting the apparatus in low gear D. Driving the apparatus in high gear for long periods of time
B
Which of the following statements about driving regulations is FALSE? A. All traffic signals and rules must be obeyed during nonemergency driving. B. Driving regulations pertain to dry, clear roads during nighttime conditions. C. Driver/Operators should adjust speeds to compensate for conditions such as wet roads and fog. D. When exempted from statutes, driver/operators must exercise care for the safety of others and maintain complete control of the vehicle.
B
Which type of road surface provides the optimal stopping ability? A. A flat, dry, gravel road B. A flat, dry, paved road C. A steep, wet, paved road D. A steep, dry, unpaved road
B
Always consult the ___, supplied with each vehicle, for detailed instructions specific to the vehicle. A. vehicle SOPs B. company SOPs C. manufacturer's operator's manual D. company specifications guidebook
C
Attempt to maintain ___ control through correct throttling. A. clutch B. braking C. engine rpm D. engine temperature
C
Do not allow the ___ if lugging does occur. A. engine to overheat and stall out B. apparatus to shimmy or lose traction C. engine rpm to drop below peak torque speed D. pressure to build up above peak torque speed
C
Do not disengage the clutch until ___, particularly on slippery surfaces. A. shifting to a lower gear B. the brakes have been applied C. the last few feet (meters) of travel D. engine revolutions fall to at least 2,000 rpm
C
Do not move the apparatus until: A. all dash lights show green. B. the brake limiting valve switch has been activated. C. all occupants are seated within the cab and wearing seatbelts. D. the temperature gauge indicates normal operating temperature.
C
How must driver/operators compensate for poor road conditions? A. By driving no more than 10 mph B. By increasing their speed to ensure quicker response C. By reducing their speed by an appropriate amount D. By finding a different route with more favorable conditions
C
If diesel engines are to be left idling, they should be set at: A. slow idle. B. low idle. C. high idle. D. regular idle.
C
If the unit has a ___, become thoroughly familiar with all the manufacturer's recommendations regarding its operation prior to use. A. STO B. SAE C. retarder D. catalytic converter
C
Manually select a lower gear as necessary when operating the apparatus at a slow speed for a long period of time or when: A. using the PTO. B. turning corners. C. driving up a steep hill. D. backing the apparatus.
C
Stay in the highest gear that allows the apparatus to ___ and still have some power in reserve for acceleration. A. lug B. idle in neutral C. keep up with traffic D. reach 400 to 500 rpm
C
What type of contact should safety observer(s) have with the driver/operator? A. Voice communications only B. Visual communications only C. Both voice and visual communications D. Only visual contact with the operation, not with the driver/operator
C
Which of the following does NOT cause lateral weight transfer? A. Too much speed in turns B. Harsh or abrupt steering action C. Stopping a tanker that is completely full of water D. Driving on slopes too steep for a particular apparatus
C
Which of the following seldom causes serious injury or death, but accounts for a significant portion of overall damage costs? A. Excessive speed by the public B. Reckless driving by the public C. Improper backing of the apparatus D. Poor apparatus design or maintenance
C
Which of the following should be selected before driving downhill? A. Overdrive B. A higher gear C. A lower gear D. Rear-wheel drive
C
List factors that influence the driver/operator's ability to stop the apparatus
Condition of the driving surface Speed being traveled Weight of the vehicle Type and condition of the vehicle's braking system
After releasing the ___, place the gear shifter into a low gear that will allow the vehicle to move with a minimum of throttle. A. clutch B. gear shift C. accelerator D. parking brake
D
Excessive speed by the fire apparatus driver/operator can result in which of the following? A. Unpredictable behavior of public B. Vehicle system failure, especially in braking system C. Inability to recognize a dangerous situation D. Inability of driver/operator to stop in time to avoid a collision with another vehicle
D
If departmental SOPs allow, what should be done at a red signal light? A. Slow the apparatus to a speed that allows a stop if necessary. B. Bring the apparatus to a complete stop and wait for the light to turn green. C. Ensure that all lanes of traffic are yielding to the apparatus and proceed as usual. D. Come to a complete stop and assure that all lanes of traffic are yielding to the apparatus before proceeding.
D
If the apparatus becomes stuck in mud or snow, DO NOT: A. idle the engine or slip the clutch. B. race the engine or slip the clutch. C. idle the engine or pop the clutch. D. race the engine or pop the clutch.
D
Once the apparatus is ready to move, depress the ___ and move it to the appropriate gear selection. A. gear shift B. clutch pedal C. start button lever D. interlock on the shifter
D
Poor apparatus design is most often a factor on: A. engines. B. aerial apparatus. C. pumping apparatus. D. homebuilt water tenders.
D
The sum of the driver/operator reaction distance and the vehicle braking distance A. Braking distance B. Driver/Operator reaction distance C. Driver/Operator reaction time D. Total stopping distance
D
What should be used when fire apparatus must be driven over rough or rugged terrain? A. Overdrive B. Front-wheel drive C. Rear-wheel drive D. The lower gears
D
When is it advisable to drive into the opposing lane of traffic (if departmental SOPs allow)? A. Anytime, as long as full warning devices are used B. Anytime, as long as you are following law enforcement personnel C. Whenever it is faster and more convenient than driving in normal traffic D. When all lanes of traffic are blocked in the same direction as the responding apparatus
D
When the engine must be left to idle for an extended period of time, at what should the idle be set? A. 300 to 400 rpm B. 500 to 650 rpm C. 700 to 900 rpm D. 900 to 1,100 rpm
D
Which of the following statements about driving regulations is TRUE? A. Fire apparatus driver/operators are exempt from rules and regulations governing other vehicle operators. B. Emergency vehicles are exempt from laws requiring vehicles to stop for school buses that are flashing signal lights. C. In some jurisdictions, statutes may exempt emergency vehicles from driving regulations when returning to quarters from an alarm. D. If a driver/operator does not obey driving regulations and is involved in a collision, both the driver/operator and the fire department may be held responsible.
D
Who is responsible for the safety of all personnel riding on the apparatus? A. The fire chief B. The firefighter C. The mechanic D. The driver/operator
D
Techniques for anticipating other drivers' actions - Leave yourself an "out"
Do not expect other drivers to leave you an out (escape route). Be prepared by expecting the unexpected.
List the most common causes of skids
Driving too fast for road conditions Failing to properly appreciate weight shifts of heavy apparatus Failing to anticipate obstacles (these range from other vehicles to animals) Improper use of auxiliary braking devices Improper maintenance of tire air pressure (overinflated tires) Improper maintenance of tire tread depth (inadequate tread depth)
Are connected to either the driver shaft or the rear axle of the vehicle ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
EMBS
Are frictionless braking systems ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
EMBS
Augment and work in conjunction with the vehicle's conventional service brakes ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
EMBS
Can be programmed to activate when driver/operators remove their foot from the accelerator, step on the brake pedal, or use a manual selector lever mounted on the steering column ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
EMBS
Do not activate at speeds under 2 mph (3.2 km/h) under normal conditions ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
EMBS
Reduced the air pressure on the front steering axle by 50% when the switch was in the slippery-road position, preventing the front wheels from locking up, allowing the driver/operator to steer the vehicle even when the rear wheels were locked into a skid ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
FBL
Were commonly installed on apparatus built before the mid-1970s, but improved types are also found on some new apparatus ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
FBL
Were intended to help the driver/operator maintain control of the apparatus on slippery surfaces ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
FBL
Were more commonly known as the "dry road/slippery road" switches ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
FBL
Were not overly effective or safe; with the switch in the slippery-road position, the braking capabilities were reduced by 25% ATC = Automatic traction control ATCS = ATC snow-and-mud switch EMBS = Electromagnetic braking systems FBL = Front brake-limiting valve system
FBL
Name regulatory agencies/laws that govern fire apparatus driver/operators
Federal laws State or provincial motor vehicle codes City ordinances NFPA standards Departmental policies
Techniques for anticipating other drivers' actions - Aim high in steering
Find a safe path well ahead.
List the five most common causes of fire apparatus collisions
Improper backing of the apparatus Reckless driving by the public Excessive speed by the fire apparatus driver/operator Lack of driving skill and experience by the fire apparatus driver/operator Poor apparatus design or maintenance
Explain the purpose and operation of an antilock braking system (ABS) - Purpose
Minimizing the chance of skidding when the brakes are applied forcefully
Proper driver/operator attitude? - Demand the right-of-way because you legally have it.
No
Proper driver/operator attitude? - Drive aggressively whenever driving to an accident scene.
No
Proper driver/operator attitude? - Never yield the right-of-way.
No
Techniques for anticipating other drivers' actions - Keep your eyes moving
Scan - do not stare.
Explain the concept of visual lead time
Scanning far enough ahead of the apparatus, for the speed it is being driven, to assure that appropriate action can be taken if it becomes necessary.
Techniques for anticipating other drivers' actions - Get the big picture
Stay back and see it all.
Techniques for anticipating other drivers' actions - Make sure others can see and hear you
Use lights, horn, and signals in combination.
Explain the purpose and operation of an antilock braking system (ABS) - Operation
Uses digital technology in an onboard computer that monitors each wheel and controls air pressure to the brakes, maintaining optimal braking ability
List the exceptions to the NFPA seated and belted requirement
When providing patient care in the back of an ambulance that makes it impractical to be seated and belted When loading hose back into a fire apparatus When performing training for personnel learning to drive the tiller portion of a tractor-drawn aerial apparatus
Proper driver/operator attitude? - Develop a safety-conscious attitude.
Yes
Proper driver/operator attitude? - Do not drive recklessly or aggressively.
Yes
Proper driver/operator attitude? - Remain calm and drive in a safe manner.
Yes
Proper driver/operator attitude? - Strive to present a positive fire department image at all times.
Yes
List guidelines for controlling skids
• When driving a vehicle equipped with an ABS, maintain a steady pressure on the brake pedal (rather than pumping the pedal) until the apparatus is brought to a complete stop. • Remember that with air brakes, there is a slight delay (approximately 0.4 seconds) between the time from which the driver/operator pushes down on the brake pedal until sufficient air pressure is sent to the brake to operate. • When driving a vehicle not equipped with an ABS, release the brakes, allowing the wheels to rotate freely. • No matter what braking system, turn the steering wheel so that the front wheels face the direction of the skid. • When driving a standard transmission apparatus, do not release the clutch (push in the clutch pedal) until the vehicle is under control and just before stopping the vehicle. • Once the skid is controllable, gradually apply power to the wheels to further control the vehicle by providing traction.
