©Copyright Task Force Tips LLC 2002-2020
11
LIX-030 September 4, 2020 Rev26
5.4 CARBIDE SPIKES
The Safe-Tak 1250 Portable Monitor has (5 or 6) tungsten carbide tipped spikes on the legs and the base to resist sliding by digging into
the surface the monitor is sitting on. The amount of sliding force these spikes can withstand depends upon the amount of downward and
sideways force that is on the base and the hardness and texture of the surface the spikes are in contact with. At low elevation angles, it
is difficult for these spikes to resist sliding. These spikes are essential to safe operation of the monitor and must be in contact with the
ground at all times. Set the monitor on an even surface so that all spikes contact the ground. Replace any spike if the tip diameter
exceeds 1/16 inch (1.6mm).
5.5 ANCHORING BY USING THE TIE DOWN STRAP
The safest method of restraining the monitor is to use a tie down strap. It is inherently more reliable than other methods since it does not
rely on traction or digging in of the spikes. It is also the safest method because even if the monitor slides its travel is limited by the strap
length. A forward attachment point and a strap are provided with the Crossfire. A loop on the end of the strap may be placed over the
anchor point or the strap may be wrapped around an object, such as a tree, and the snap end of the strap passed through the loop and
pulled tight. Keep the entire length of the strap as close to the ground as possible. Snap the hook into the hole in the front of the
Crossfire. Keep the distance between the monitor and anchor as short as possible.
If the strap is too short to reach a suitable anchor, it may be extended with strong rope or chain. Keep the distance between the monitor
and anchor as short as possible. Remove all slack between the monitor and anchor before flowing water.
Figure 5.5
At low nozzle elevation angles the base may also require additional anchoring. The ability of a single anchor to stop sliding is a function
of the horizontal angle between the strap and water stream. When the stream is in line with the anchor any sliding will be arrested by the
anchor. As the horizontal angle increases between the anchor strap and the stream, the base can begin to slide in an arc around the
anchor point. In this situation multiple anchor points may be required.
The strap should be stored inside the monitor base when not in use. The black rubber cap on the strap will hold the strap in the base and
protect the sealing surface of the quick connect swivel joint.
WARNING
For stable operation all spikes must maintain contact with the ground. Lack of stability can cause
an out of control monitor resulting in injury or death. Do not place the monitor on top of debris,
objects, or uneven terrain that could keep any of the spikes from contacting the ground.
WARNING
On hard slippery surfaces the spikes may provide little resistance to sliding. A sliding monitor may
become out of control and may cause injury or death.
To help increase resistance to sliding:
• Tie off the monitor
• Hook the legs on a stationary object
• Apply a person’s weight to the monitor
• Replace any spike if the tip diameter exceeds 1/16 inch (1.6 mm)
CAUTION
Spikes are sharp and exposed. Use care around spikes to avoid injury and damage to clothing or
other property.
WARNING
A sliding monitor can cause injury. Remove all slack between the anchor and base before flowing
water.
