OPERATION
4-2 / Mid-Mount Ascendant Aerial Tower
© 2021 Pierce Manufacturing Inc. All Rights Reserved.
4-1.2
Response Scene Location Planning
Your aerial apparatus is larger than most other vehicles on the road. You therefore need to know your response area
well and plan ahead for tight areas, low obstructions, bridges, power lines, and other potential hazards. Consult your
department standard operating procedures and the
IFSTA Pumping and Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator
Handbook
to learn about the many factors involved in properly positioning your apparatus at the scene. These
considerations should include but not be limited to:
•
Fire location
•
Water source location
•
Other apparatus positioning
•
Optimal access to potential rescue sites on a structure
•
Wind direction
•
Ground stability
•
Structure collapse zone
•
Power lines
•
Escape route
4-1.3
Response Scene Position Planning for Terrain
Level Terrain
Always position your aerial apparatus on the most even terrain possible. Your apparatus must be capable of being
leveled to within the safe operating limits as described in
Load Chart and Level Chart Information
of this manual.
The area around the apparatus must be clear of obstructions so that the stabilizers can be deployed.
Uneven Terrain
Your apparatus may be set up on sloped terrain as long as it can still be leveled to within the safe operating limits
as described in
Load Chart and Level Chart Information
of this manual. You may wish to consider the following when
positioning on uneven terrain.
4-1.3a
Disadvantages of positioning your apparatus on an uphill grade:
•
Compartments and other items on the rear of the apparatus will be higher and may require a ground ladder or
stepping stool to reach.
•
It may not be possible to lower the tip of the aerial or platform enough to reach the ground.
4-1.3b
Disadvantages of positioning your apparatus on a downhill grade:
•
The cab doors and other items at the front of the apparatus will be higher and may require a ground ladder or
stepping stool to reach.
•
Reach may be limited over front of vehicle if front (bumper) stabilizers cannot reach the ground.
Read and follow the Safe Aerial Set-Up instructions found in the safety section of this manual.
Read and follow the Safe Aerial Set-up and Operating within Safe Level Limits instructions found in the
safety section of this manual.