The Apparatus Architects: Vehicle Maintenance & The Boston Report
This month's edition of The Apparatus Architects focuses on emergency vehicle maintenance operations in light of the recent report on the Boston Fire Department's fatal ladder truck crash.
Hosts Tom Shand and Michael Wilbur discuss the report, written by Mercury Associates, that picks apart Boston's maintenance and driver's training programs. Listen as they discuss the need for preventive maintenance, qualified mechanics and a structured maintenance program for all fire department fleets.
The Apparatus Architects also look at the quality of vehicle maintenance during the tough economic times that the nation is facing.
They also answer listener questions about plumbing for engine company apparatus and who insures the vehicles while it's in the building and delivery process.
Please send any comments, suggestions or questions for the Apparatus Architects to: [email protected].
Related Links
-- Critical Boston Apparatus Maintenance Report Can Serve as Learning Tool to Fire Departments
-- Mercury Associates Report on the Boston Fire Department (PDF)
-- Boston Lagging in Apparatus Driver Training
-- Report: Boston Gets 'F' for Fire Truck Maintenance
-- Emergency Vehicle Response
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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.