The Apparatus Architects: Competitive Bids & Winterizing Apparatus
Apparatus Architects Tom Shand and Michael Wilbur start off the podcast with look at winterizing fire apparatus. They discuss the use of snow and ice chains and how to properly bed an aerial ladder when it's covered in ice.
They move to an in-depth discussion on the main theme of this podcast -- the proper means to secure a true competitive bid. It's sparked a lot of debate based on their Apparatus Architects column in the November issue of Firehouse Magazine. They look at the differences between open specs, performance specs and manufacturer's specs.
Listen as they offer advice on the important considerstions before and after the bid process takes place, as well as tag-on order for additiona or simialr vehicles.
Please send any comments, questions or suggestions to [email protected].
See Tom Shand and Mike Wilbur Live! Tom and Mike will be presenting the following sessions at Firehouse World in San Diego, Feb. 26 - March 2: "Anatomy of a Rollover Accident and How to Prevent Them," "Engine Company Operations: The Top 5 Things You Need to Accomplish at All Incidents," and "Fire Apparatus Purchasing: What You Need to Know Before Signing the Contract." Stay tuned for details on the live recording of "The Apparatus Architects" at Firehouse World.
About the Author
Tom Shand
TOM SHAND, who is a Firehouse contributing editor, is a 36-year veteran of the fire service. He works with Michael Wilbur at Emergency Vehicle Response, consulting on a variety of fire apparatus and fire department master-planning issues. Shand is a member of the Firehouse Hall of Fame.
Michael Wilbur
MICHAEL WILBUR, who is a Firehouse contributing editor, retired as a lieutenant in FDNY, where he was last assigned to Ladder Company 27 in the Bronx. He has served on FDNY's Apparatus Purchasing Committee and consults on a variety of apparatus-related issues around the country. Wilbur is a member of the Firehouse Hall of Fame. For further information, access his website at www.emergencyvehicleresponse.com.