Extrication "Quick Tip" #30 (Operating with THREE-PART 2-SQD Driver)

The "Quick Tip" this week is part 2 of a 3 part series. We will be covering one of the most important and often unappreciated extrication scene positions-SQD Driver. More often than not, this position will make or break the scenes efficiency. From insuring the safe travel, to anticipating the needs, this position will be working until the situation is under control.

Driving

The safe travel and arrival of the apparatus to any incident is paramount. The most timesavings during response will be from when the tones drop until the truck pulls out of the bay. This "turnout time" will have the biggest impact on the speed of response. We DO NOT blow stop signs, lights, or drive crazy. I am a huge proponent of turning out of the station "quickly".

Position apparatus

Positioning of the rig will also have a big impact on the safety of all on scene personnel. If possible, position the apparatus with consideration for equipment access including winch access.

Engage PTO

After the truck is positioned, the driver will engage the generator PTO to allow power to needed equipment and depending on call time, illumination of the scene. When he exits the apparatus, his first task is to go back and power up the hydraulic power unit.

Truck in Pump/Hose-line

Per our extrication protocol, a hose line is put into operation on all entrapments. If first in unit has a foam capable booster it can be used in lue of an 1 3/4. If we are first due we will typically take care of deploying the hose line, however it is typically established by the first in Engine Co.

Open compartments, stabilization, & supply tools

 The driver will open necessary compartments on the way to his stabilization equipment. He will grab the step chocks on upright vehicles and proceed to take care of the first phase of stabilization. If stabilization will be more labor intensive (vehicle on roof, side, etc.) then he will have assistance in the stabilization phase from the backstep FF.

Help where needed

This is one of the top tasks of our SQD Driver. This position must be constantly thinking and will assess the needs of the call. This will allow the driver to supply the appropriate equipment to the extrication tarp. For example, if I am going to need an air chisel, a good driver will have that sitting on the tarp, supplied with air, when I turn for it. The driver will also fill as needed (Secure power, cut seatbelt, pull plastic, etc.)

If you haven’t read Part 1 of this series it's located here-http://community.fireengineering.com/profiles/blog/show?xg_source=a...

As you can see, there is a lot of work for the SQD Driver to complete. The driver is responsible for his own tasks, along with filling in where they are needed. Remember, with staffing at 3, there is a lot of work to be done with limited hands. Tune in next week for Part 3 of this series (The SQD FF) and join me at FDIC for Gaining the Tactical Advantage-Thursday April 23rd RM 238/239 (1030-1215).

ISAAC FRAZIER is a Special Operations Lieutenant with St. Johns County Florida’s Heavy Rescue “Squad 4”. First due to the deadliest stretch of roadway in the nation, Frazier teaches from personal street experience providing tried and true tactics. Frazier is the owner of Tactical Advantage Training and creator of the course Tactical Extrication. Frazier travels nationally sharing his passion teaching fire and extrication courses. Frazier is a Fire Officer II, FL Paramedic, Special Operations Officer, Florida State Instructor, FLUSAR Tech, Diver, and FL Hazmat Tech.  www.TrainTacticalAdvantage.com