In order to respond to emergency situations, firetrucks need to be in proper working order. Regardless of the season, firetruck maintenance recommendations remain consistent throughout the year. However, the 2007 edition of the NFPA 1911 document has made some additional recommendations and permissions for authorities. In order to properly maintain their fleet, a Fire Department Commercial Auto Insurance package is a necessity. Further, follow these considerations to keep your clients’ firetrucks in the best condition possible.

Stephen Wilde, a member of the NFPA 1911 technical committee, stated “The 2007 edition of NFPA 1911 represented the first NFPA standards document that told the AHJ (authority having jurisdiction) that they had the option of going above requirements listed in the standard, but it could not delete or ignore requirements in the standard.” Fire Rescue 1 disclosed the following requirements:

• It shall be the responsibility of the AHJ to develop and implement a schedule for the operational checking, inspection, diagnostic checking, and maintenance of the fire apparatus and its systems and components described in this document, based on manufacturer’s recommendations, local experience and operating conditions (NFPA 1911, 4.5.3).
• The fire apparatus shall meet all federal, state or provincial, and local laws for motor vehicle inspections (NFPA 1911, 4.5.1).
• All inspections shall be conducted in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended procedures (NFPA 1911, 4.5.2).
• A complete inspection and diagnostic check of the fire apparatus shall be conducted at least as frequently as recommended by the apparatus manufacturer or once per year, whichever comes first (NFPA 1911, 4.5.5).

Going Above and Beyond

Fire departments have flexibility when planning their preventative maintenance schedules. Therefore, it is advised that instead of waiting until the end of the year, firetrucks should be evaluated within the first third of the year. This way, any problems and repairs can be remedied early on.

Preventative Maintenance

In addition to the obvious repairs and lubrication inspections, firetrucks should be examined to determine if any of the critical factors are in need of assistance during the annual PM testing. This includes ensuring that the air conditioning, transmission fluids, brakes, engine, radiator, and coolant are all in top shape.

At Provident Fire Plus, we have a deep understanding of the risks that the emergency response sector faces on a daily basis. With the protection of our specialty programs, your clients’ firetrucks will be properly protected, without any hassles or surprises. To learn more, contact us today at (855) 201-8880.