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Before We Respond We have touched on some of the personal tools for the truckie and now I want to focus a little on the tools the truck driver or engineer can use to make life and work a little easier. As the saying goes, these are my tools; there are many like it, but these are...

In part 1 we looked at some of the reasons and decisions you should consider when deciding to promote to the position of engineer/driver/operator. We also began a look into what you will encounter when preparing for the process itself. Today we will continue to look at some...

As the driver/EVD/FADO/engineer (here we will call it a driver/operator for simplicity) of a truck, tower, or quint we are responsible for the safe operation of this multi-ton vehicle to and from, and on the incident scene. Regardless of the make and style of your specific...

In previous articles on FFTB, we have discussed what we do as firefighters, truck driver operators and officers and leaders in the fire service. In this series, we will be looking at what preparations are needed to become an engineer (or depending on where you are from a...

In the previous two parts we discussed how a chauffeur/driver can train and become an effective operator, in and out of the cab. Today is the last part of our series. We will give you a few more ideas on the best drills to conduct for the driver. Loss of Water Drill The loss of...

There is a considerable amount of responsibility that goes along with driving an engine and the driver/operator/chauffeur/engineer must be a well oiled machine. They must be able to react to any issue placed before them, independently and with speed; all in a safe manner. A good...

Based on comments I have been receiving on previous articles, I decided we should address some drills that can be practiced on the department and or company level. These drills are simple enough, but will build the skills needed to be a competent chauffeur if they are training or...

In Part 1 of our series we discussed that the engine company’s main duty is to establish a water supply, stretch the hose line and extinguish the fire but sometimes things don’t always go as planned, even if you train and plan repeatedly. Today we will...

The role and responsibly associated with the job of ladder truck driver/operator or engineer or chauffeur or whatever you call it, is one of the most important in the fire service. Without being redundant, if the driver doesn’t get us there, we don’t help anyone. That is also...