Pierce Pumper, Operation & Maintenance Manual, Page: 22 / 66

OPERATION
3-6 / Pierce Pumper
© 2019 Pierce Manufacturing Inc. All Rights Reserved.
3-3. Positioning the Apparatus
3-3.1 Fire Scene Positioning
Heat from a fire can damage electrical systems, rubber seals and gaskets, and plastic components. Always place
apparatus upwind from the fire and at a safe distance away from flames.
Diesel engines consume as much as 1200 cubic feet of clean air every minute. Hot embers sucked into the air intake
can cause the air cleaner element to ignite. Although Pierce Custom Chassis are equipped with ember barriers
composed of mesh screens or perforated metal, they are not a foolproof guarantee of protection.
Always leave a way out. Always position the apparatus in a location that allows a quick retreat if conditions change.
Always park upwind of the fire. Never park the apparatus downwind of the fire.
Always avoid electrical lines. Never park under electrical lines.
3-3.2 Positioning on Roads
Position the apparatus so that it protects emergency personnel. Many departments choose to park the apparatus at
an angle so that personnel can work behind the vehicle, out of the direct path of oncoming vehicles.
Keep emergency response lighting ON to alert traffic.
3-3.3 Lighting
As soon as possible, provide good lighting for people working on and around the apparatus. Use extendable lighting
or lighting from another apparatus.
Make sure that the pump operator can clearly observe controls, gauges, and hose connections, and can watch the
condition of hoses and attack personnel to the greatest extent possible.
3-3.4 Chock the Wheels
ALWAYS place wheel chocks on both front and rear of tire when vehicle is parked.
Chock wheels as soon as you exit the cab.
Operate apparatus away from burning embers that can be sucked into the air intake system.
Burning embers in the engine air filter can cause engine fire.
Engine fire can cause property damage, serious injury, or death.