Alright, so the question finally came up before our association the other night. It was a cluster to say the least, all the old timers crying foul from the back as the new guys tried to embrace the possible change.
The idea (If all the pieces fall into place), retire our 1988 Ford C Heavy Rescue and put all its equipment onto our new (If the town approves the purchase) 1994 E-One 110' aerial ladder. The idea came about after it was realized our 99% volunteer Department was having trouble staffing the amount of equipment we have. That coupled with rising repair costs on the old rescue, and rising insurance costs to boot. It was suggested we mold the two companies into one. And reduce our fleet by one truck to save money.
This caused quite the uproar from the back of the room, where the old timers cited the poor driving abilities of the younger crowd as their main argument against the change. They also argued that such a large truck (A single axle with a wheel base similar to that of our first due engine) wouldn't be practical out on the interstate, especially when it's snowing and icy. It's "too big" to be used on the Interstate (A two lane Highway)
The arguments were not brushed under the table and in part I agree with some of what they had to say. But I still feel its a positive step for the future of the Department. My question lies here, from those with Departments that run your aerial device 1st due for MVA's (Or MVC's if thats what you call them) What are the pro's and con's you've encountered. Are the trucks indeed just "too big" for this role? Does it pose any added risk while driving to an from calls?
Opinions and advice from those that can help would be much appreciated. Thanks.
AJ
The idea (If all the pieces fall into place), retire our 1988 Ford C Heavy Rescue and put all its equipment onto our new (If the town approves the purchase) 1994 E-One 110' aerial ladder. The idea came about after it was realized our 99% volunteer Department was having trouble staffing the amount of equipment we have. That coupled with rising repair costs on the old rescue, and rising insurance costs to boot. It was suggested we mold the two companies into one. And reduce our fleet by one truck to save money.
This caused quite the uproar from the back of the room, where the old timers cited the poor driving abilities of the younger crowd as their main argument against the change. They also argued that such a large truck (A single axle with a wheel base similar to that of our first due engine) wouldn't be practical out on the interstate, especially when it's snowing and icy. It's "too big" to be used on the Interstate (A two lane Highway)
The arguments were not brushed under the table and in part I agree with some of what they had to say. But I still feel its a positive step for the future of the Department. My question lies here, from those with Departments that run your aerial device 1st due for MVA's (Or MVC's if thats what you call them) What are the pro's and con's you've encountered. Are the trucks indeed just "too big" for this role? Does it pose any added risk while driving to an from calls?
Opinions and advice from those that can help would be much appreciated. Thanks.
AJ
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