Why is there a driver in the back of a fire truck?
The driver in the back of the apparatus steers the back wheels, and that’s it. It is designed like this so that the front and rear may be steered separately, allowing for turns to be made in smaller spaces, like on small city streets.
Do fire trucks require two drivers?
Tiller fire trucks have two drivers, with separate steering wheels for front and rear wheels.
Does the engineer drive the fire truck?
The engineer is an expert who is responsible for the operation, maintenance as well as the driving of the fire apparatus. As an engineer fireman, you will be charged with the responsibility of driving the vehicle that transports firemen and pumps water via the fire pump and hoses at the fire scene.
How much is a firefighter truck worth?
A basic fire truck or engine with no equipment on it can cost as little as $250,000, but the price can go up to $6 million (rarely) depending on the type of vehicle. Then there’s the equipment too which can cost more than the truck itself.
What is a fire truck driver called?
Firefighter driver/engineer is the title used to describe the firefighter position that is in charge of driving fire apparatus (engines, trucks, squads), pumping water to extinguish fires, operating aerial ladders and other related tasks. They can also be called drivers, driver/operators, or chauffeurs.
What rank drives the fire truck?
The firefighter may drive the fire truck in the absence of the driver/engineer (as an “acting driver/engineer), assuming he or she has the appropriate training. There are usually one to two ranked firefighters in a company/firehouse.
What’s the difference between a fire engine and a fire truck?
Fire engines are equipped with hoses and water so that personnel can aggressively fight the fire. Fire Trucks are like the firefighter’s tool box — carrying ladders, rescue equipment and other tools to enable personnel to support firefighting activities.
What does an engineer do in the fire department?
Fire engineers are responsible for maintaining and driving firefighting vehicles, such as fire engines, that transport firefighters, carry equipment and pump water at fire scenes. They make sure that the vehicle is clean and running efficiently, the gas tank contains enough fuel and all systems are working.
What does a driver engineer firefighter do?
The driver engineer is responsible for driving the apparatus. They are also responsible for maintaining and operating the fire pump and aerial ladder. This is a very technical position that comes with a lot of responsibility.
What is the life expectancy of a fire truck?
The recommended life expectancy of a fire truck is 20 years and although it exceeds the life span of the average passenger vehicle they are not built to last forever.