[AT] Can you hear me now?

[David Bruce]

In an emergency vehicle are such really needed?  I get the idea of a 
black box but with my experience with sensor failure I think this is 
really problematic .

I could make a case for emergency vehicles NOT having the various 
interlocks or having reasonable non-computer back up systems.

David
NW NC
sharing the soapbox

Steve W. wrote:
> I have already seen a couple of newer rigs shut down during drills when
> a sensor decided something was wrong.
>
> We picked up a tanker from a local department who just got a new rig
> that is all computer controlled. They called the other night asking if
> we would like to swap back. The new rig has been in the shop more than
> it has been on the fire ground. Seems that they keep having problems
> with the computer controls.
>
> With the new stuff they are adding this year it is only going to get worse.
> This year they are adding the new emissions rules to the engine, new
> spec rules for the pump system, seat belt interlocks (if the seat has
> weight in it and the seat belt isn't connected the engine won't start!)
> Continuous data recording (just like aircraft black boxes) plus new
> impact requirements and striping. Total added cost over an engine from
> last year is around $60,000.00.
>
> Last year a new standard went into effect about our turn out gear. As it
> stands now when the gear is 10 years old you are required to throw it
> out. Regardless of what the gear has actually been through. We are
> getting 20 sets of new gear this year. Total cost $35,478.00. Thankfully
> this time we are getting a grant for it.
>
> Well I'd better shut up and get off the soap box.....
>
>