Radio @ Firehouse.com » Apparatus Architects

The Apparatus Architects: New Rig Technology & Tool Mounting

PMatthews — Tue, 06 May 2008 03:59:33 +0000

Hosts Tom Shand and Michael Wilbur talk about their observations from one of the first major trade shows, FDIC. They’ll review some of the latest designs they saw at the Indianapolis event. Hear what they have to say about the placement of a data recorder in a truck.

While 2007 saw a 17 percent decrease in apparatus deliveries across the country, what’s going on now?

Wilbur goes over the rash of crashes and other incidents. Recently, trucks have been stuck in mud and hit by blind drivers. And, firefighters continue to get behind the wheel after throwing down a few drinks.

The Apparatus Architects also will share their thoughts on proposed changes to the NFPA 1901 Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus that include significant requirements. The show wraps up with a discussion on the importance of mounting tools and equipment inside the cab. Tune in to hear what they suggest.

Please send any suggestions, questions or comments, to: podcast@firehouse.com.

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The Apparatus Architects: Protecting Your Assets

PMatthews — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 17:51:35 +0000

This edition of the Apparatus Architects opens with an update on the fire apparatus industry. The hosts will explore ways that can help you avoid major losses if your equipment order is not completed.

Hosts Tom Shand and Michael Wilbur review the latest news on American LaFrance and other apparatus builders. Michael Wilbur offers an update on recent apparatus crashes and his headline of the month.

The hosts talk about the importance of paperwork that protects your departments purchase. Tune in to hear what they have to say about the issue. In light of recent industry changes, it’s a presentation you can’t afford to skip.

Please send any suggestions, questions or comments, to: podcast@firehouse.com.

Related Links
• Emergency Vehicle Response

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The Apparatus Architects: NFPA 1901 Changes & Pumper Purchasing

PMatthews — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 14:54:11 +0000

This month’s edition of the Apparatus Architects looks at some of the changes being proposed in the NFPA 1901 Standards for Fire Apparatus.The proposed changes include the placement of a black box-like device to record vehicle data, tool mounting policies and more. Hosts Tom Shand and Michael Wilbur also will discuss recent fire engine crashes in which firefighters were saved by seat belts.

If your department is considering the purchase of a new vehicle, the architects offer advice on cost-saving methods to insure your department gets the right one.

The show wraps up with a continuation of the discussion on the state of the apparatus industry. The hosts give an update on the American LaFrance Chapter 11 filing, and the issues that other apparatus manufacturers are facing.

Related Links
• Emergency Vehicle Response
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The Apparatus Architects: A Bad Start for 2008 & Accident Prevention

PMatthews — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 17:14:36 +0000

It hasn’t been a good start for the new year. There have been a rash of collisions involving both personal vehicles and apparatus. A firefighter in his personal vehicle was killed en route to a house fire. Several other major wrecks are highlighted in the news portion of the podcast, which features the new “headline of the month.”

The focus of this show is crash prevention. Hosts Tom Shand and Michael Wilbur will discuss the ramifications of collisions. What happens when the apparatus is placed out of service?

The hosts also offer tips for safe operations and driving. It’s essential not to put the lives of your crew or the public at risk. If you operate an emergency vehicle or drive your vehicle to alarms, you don’t want to miss this presentation. Your life may depend on it.

Be Apart of this Podcast at Firehouse World!
Join hosts Tom Shand and Michael Wilbur during a live taping of The Apparatus Architects at Firehouse World in San Diego. The show will begin at 12 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 6 in Room 24A. If you’re buying a new rig soon or have questions regarding apparatus, bring them to this informative session.

Related Links
• Emergency Vehicle Response
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The Apparatus Architects: Predictions for the 2008 Apparatus Industry

PMatthews — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 05:30:46 +0000

This edition of The Apparatus Architects looks at the latest news of 2007. As the year winds down, several manufactures face big changes that may impact fire departments across the nation. Hosts Michael Wilbur and Tom Shand offer their predictions for the state of the industry in 2008.

If your department is considering the purchase of a retired school bus and ambulance, tune in to see what Tom and Mike have to say. The hosts will tell you why these units have been retired and why they should never be used for emergency response.

Just before a new pumper is delivered, it is pump tested. Do you know what that means? Tom details the pump test processes and Mike looks at the ladder testing. The Apparatus Architects share their thoughts on what to look for if you have your eye on used or rehabilitated apparatus. One listener admits the deal his department thought it was getting turned out to be costly instead.

Please send any suggestions, questions or comments, to: podcast@firehouse.com.

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The Apparatus Architects: Working with Dealers and Warranties

PMatthews — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 18:16:24 +0000

Whether your department is looking to buy a used fire truck or designing a new unit, this month’s edition of The Apparatus Architects is a must. Hosts Tom Shand and Michael Wilbur use their experience to offer advice on the purchase of used apparatus. Hear about how a department lucked out and purchased a 20-year-old ladder truck with only 6,500 miles.

They also will give valuable tips to use when establishing a relationship and negotiating with dealers. After all, your investment may have to last more than 20 years. This podcast also looks at warranties. It’s essential you get one that fits the bill.

The Architects discuss a question about a department’s new policy not use the “Jake Brake” because of noise complaints. They also will offer comment on recent news including the impact of firefighters nabbed for driving under the influence.

Please send any suggestions, questions or comments, to: podcast@firehouse.com.

Related Links
• Emergency Vehicle Response

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The Apparatus Architects: Accident Liability and Older Units

PMatthews — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 06:38:58 +0000

Apparatus Architects Tom Shand and Michael Wilbur dedicate a good chunk of this podcast to several recent events that involved fire apparatus. From an engine that rolled into a lake, to a unit that was stolen from a manufacturing plant, the hosts discuss ways to avoid these situations. Another topic they’ll tackle centers around the liability issues that surface when department and personal vehicles are involved in crashes.

Tom Shand talks about the challenges a Massachusetts department is facing as it starts thinking about replacing its 39-year-old ladder truck. He also holds a frank discussion about agreements between departments, and the issues that may arise when one has more modern equipment than the other.

Please send any suggestions, questions or comments, to: podcast@firehouse.com.

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The Apparatus Architects: Manufacturers Roundtable for Apparatus Safety Issues

PMatthews — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 18:02:32 +0000

In this installment of the Apparatus Architects, Tom Shand and Michael Wilbur present a roundtable discussion on the current state of the fire apparatus industry with representatives with several manufacturers. This roundtable focuses on firefighter safety in all aspects of the apparatus design and use.

Manufacturer representatives include Keithy Purdy with American LaFrance; Jim Salmi with Crimson Fire Apparatus; Allan Hollister with E-ONE, Jason Witmier with KME and Jim Featherstone with Pierce.

Topics for this podcast include: improvements to apparatus design for firefighter safety and the affects of government regulations on the industry. The current trends in pumper design, including standardization and streamlining are discussed as well as the increasing costs of apparatus construction.

Please send any suggestions, questions or comments, to: podcast@firehouse.com.

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The Apparatus Architects: Live from Firehouse Expo

EvitaBarbour — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 19:37:41 +0000

The Apparatus Architects come to you from the classroom at Firehouse Expo where several hot topics were discussed. With several recent runaway fire trucks, Tom Shand and Michael Wilbur talk about some of the potential problems and solutions.

The Apparatus Architects also look at the importance of having a tool and equipment list when it comes time to spec out a new rig. You will hear why it is essential to have it ready when speaking with manufacturers to assure that all of the necessary equipment will fit on the rig when it’s ready for service.

In this podcast, The Apparatus Architects come to you from the classroom at Firehouse Expo where several hot topics

Stay tuned to The Apparatus Architects podcast for another program that was recorded at Firehouse Expo. This podcast will feature representatives from several of the apparatus manufacturers who will talk about their safety initiatives and industry changes.

If you have suggestions, questions or comments, please e-mail them to: podcast@firehouse.com

Links
•Total Concept seat belt study
•Emergency Vehicle Response

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The Apparatus Architects: Bigger Isn’t Always Better

chebert — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 19:35:54 +0000

From extended bumpers to raised roof cabs, Apparatus Architects Tom Shand and Michael Wilbur talk about the fact that bigger is not always better. The discussion includes the potential decrease in maneuverability and use of equipment when you build up and out on new engine, ladder or rescue apparatus. The Apparatus Architects also discuss the advantages and disadvantages rear-mount versus mid-mount ladder trucks. If you are looking for a new aerial ladder, you should listen to this show.

Michael Wilbur offers an update on the firefighter seat belt study being produced by Total Contact to determine the body composition of firefighters across the country. The recent firefighter /EMS safety stand down is discussed in relation to apparatus and driving safety.

This podcast ends with response to reader questions, including the most effective color in apparatus. Send in your questions for the Apparatus Architects to review during an upcoming podcast. This podcast is sponsored by Task Force Tips.

Links
• Total Concept seat belt study
• Emergency Vehicle Response

Be Apart of this Podcast at Firehouse Expo!
Join hosts Tom Shand and Michael Wilbur during a live taping of The Apparatus Architects at Firehouse Expo in Baltimore. The show will begin at 10: 15 a.m. on Friday July 27 in Room 308. If you’re buying a new rig soon, bring your questions to this informative session.

If you have suggestions, questions or comments, please e-mail them to: podcast@firehouse.com

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The Apparatus Architects: Live from FDIC

sosmer — Mon, 07 May 2007 18:45:24 +0000

The Apparatus Architects come to you from the show floor at FDIC where several new models of apparatus were unveiled. Tom Shand and Michael Wilbur highlight the large amount of combination apparatus, including rescue engines and quints, on display at the show. Several new chassis were apparatus accessories were unveiled and the Apparatus Architects will fill you in.

Michael Wilbur also talks about his experience as the first firefighter to go through the body scan process for the Firefighter Seat Belt Safety Initiative Study. The simple and painless process is the first study to look at the firefighter’s body and can bring drastic changes to equipment for firefighter ergonomics in the future. This show wraps up with a discussion of the upcoming Firefighter Safety Stand Down Week in June and some ideas to make sure your department’s apparatus are up to par. This podcast is sponsored by Task Force Tips.

Links
• Total Concept seat belt study
• Emergency Vehicle Response

If you have suggestions, questions or comments, please e-mail them to: podcast@firehouse.com

IPOD Compatible:
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The Apparatus Architects: Rescue Engines

sosmer — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 19:02:39 +0000

This month’s Apparatus Architects podcast review the pros and cons of rescue-engine apparatus. While departments are forced to do mitigate more and more problems with fewer people, a combination apparatus may be the key to successful operations. Apparatus Architects Michael Wilbur and Tom Shand offer feedback including the size, weight and construction factors because of the heavy and bulky gear carried by rescue companies that may pose limit on your department’s ideal future unit. If your department is considering this option, this is a must for your chief and apparatus committee and firefighters.

Michael Wilbur talks about the on-going seat belt issue and the Anthropometric body scans being produced by Total Contact to determine the body charactertics of firefighters across the country. While the process is primarily for better seat belts on fire apparatus, it can also be applied to other firefighting tools to make the job both safer and easier for future generations. This podcast includes the latest in apparatus news and answers several listener’s questions. This podcast is sponsored by Task Force Tips.

Links
• Total Concept seat belt study
• Responder Safety website
• Seatbelt pledge
• http://www.trainingdivision.com/seatbeltpledge.asp

If you have suggestions, questions or comments, please e-mail them to: podcast@firehouse.com

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Apparatus Architects: Will Your Department Benefit with a Quint?

sosmer — Tue, 20 Mar 2007 17:28:46 +0000

This hour-long podcast is packed with news from Apparatus Architects Michael Wilbur and Tom Shand. They will give an update on the seatbelt campaign and the latest on an ongoing medical study.

The investigation following the recent failure of a Boston ladder truck revealed the vehicle had an troubled past. It’s a discussion that firefighters and officers can not afford to skip.

Thinking about getting a Quint? If so, tune in to hear what Wilbur and Shand have to say. It’s a multi-purpose vehicle that can boost any department’s fleet, but not make up for small staffing.

If you have suggestions, questions or comments, please e-mail them to: podcast@firehouse.com

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From the Drawing Board to the Apparatus Floor with the Apparatus Architects

admin — Mon, 15 Jan 2007 15:03:03 +0000

This month’s show covers the gamut of fire apparatus design and safety, but starts with the sobering facts of safe vehicle operations. In recent months, three apparatus operators were indicted after vehicle accidents that killed a fellow firefighter and injured civilians.

Mike Wilbur mentions the fact that investigators immediately check the weight of the vehicle and often times the units is over loaded. Tom Shand starts the discussion on becoming compliant with NFPA 1901 Standards for apparatus, including weight and how important it is for department’s to specify the weight of their unit in the contract. Other 1901 standards include deck guns and scrub areas on ladder trucks that are often affected by the height of the cab.

The idea of “tag-on” orders is another theme in this show, but the Apparatus Architects caution department’s to make sure the unit is specified and sized for each department involved. This podcast ends with thoroughly checking for pitfalls in the contract for a unit. Does your committee read the fine lines? Do you know the ins and outs of contracts for new apparatus? The Apparatus Architects talk in-depth about the pros and cons of the final paperwork that everyone signs on the dotted line.

If you have suggestions, questions or comments, please e-mail them to: podcast@firehouse.com

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From the Drawing Board to the Apparatus Floor with the Apparatus Architects at Firehouse Expo

admin — Mon, 18 Sep 2006 23:19:49 +0000

Live from Firehouse Expo, Apparatus Architects Mike Wilbur and Tom Shand talk about some hot apparatus topics. They go over the pros and cons of quints, including the lack of ground ladders available on most models on the market and making sure you have SOPs to go with your new quint. The architects also answer one of the most common questions asked of them: apparatus warranties. While new deliveries come with a warranty, make sure you listen to all of the options to get what fits your needs most.

Mike Wilbur and Tom Shand will answer listener questions during future podcasts and articles on Firehouse.com. Please e-mail them at apparatusarchitect@firehouse.com.

Please visit their website at www.EmergencyVehicleResponse.com

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From the Drawing Board to The Firehouse Expo Exhibit Hall Floor with the Apparatus Architects

admin — Mon, 18 Sep 2006 23:13:57 +0000

Join Apparatus Architects Tom Shand and Mike Wilbur as they tour the exhibit hall floor at Firehouse Expo in Baltimore. The architects stop by all of the fire apparatus booths to see what’s available this year. From low hosebeds and cross lays to master streams that can not be easily accessed and erial apparatus with just the minimum amounts of ground ladders to well-positioned outriggers. The design and placement of items throughout the apparatus seemed to be focused on new safety standards including hose covers can cab design.

Mike Wilbur and Tom Shand will answer listener questions during future podcasts and articles on Firehouse.com. Please e-mail them at apparatusarchitect@firehouse.com.

Related Links:
EmergencyVehicleResponse.Com

If you have suggestions, questions or comments, please e-mail them to: podcast@firehouse.com

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From The Drawing Board To The Engine Room Floor

admin — Wed, 07 Jun 2006 19:07:27 +0000

In the first installment of their Podcast series with the Apparatus Architects, Mike Wilbur and Tom Shand get down and dirty in their series “From The Drawing Board To Engine Room Floor With The Apparatus Architects.”

Mike and Tom give talk about their observations of newly designed apparatus after returning from a recent fire service trade show. They will talk about new innovations and technologies that are available to fire departments who are currently looking to designs a new piece of apparatus. We will get updates on NFPA 1901 Standards that deal with fire apparatus design and manufacturing.

The second half of this show will deal with the best procedures to procure a new piece of fire apparatus. They will lead you in the direction of financial smarts to make sure that you don’t pay for a piece of apparatus that you will never receive.

Mike Wilbur and Tom Shand will answer listener questions during future podcasts and articles on Firehouse.com. Please e-mail them at apparatusarchitect@firehouse.com.

Related Links:
• EmergencyVehicleResponse.Com

If you have suggestions, questions or comments, please e-mail them to: podcast@firehouse.com

IPOD Compatible:
• iTunes - Subscribe to Podcast FREE Here

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