PDO Vocab Flashcards
(320 cards)
1
Q
75-80-80 rule
A
Rule of thumb for rapidly setting up an aerial ladder with detachable waterway: The device is set at a 75 degree angle , is extended to 80% of its length, and operates 80 psi (560 kPa) nozzle pressure for a 1.5 inch tip (38mm).
2
Q
A-frame Stabilizer
A
A type of aerial apparatus stabilizer that extends away from the vehicle and to the ground at an angle.
3
Q
acceleration skids
A
sliding and the loss of control caused by applying a vehicle’s gas pedal too quickly
4
Q
acceptance testing
A
preservice tests on fire apparatus or equipment, performed at the factory or after delivery, to assure the purchaser that the apparatus or equipment meets bid specifications
5
Q
Acoustic emission inspection
A
Tests that use special equipment that identify flaws in the metal of an aerial device by emitting sound waves into the device and reading them at a distant point.
6
Q
Actuator Valve
A
A valve that controls the flow of hydraulic oil from an aerial apparatus hydraulic system to the hydraulic cylinders.
7
Q
acute
A
sharp or severe; having a rapid onset and short duration
8
Q
aeration
A
introduction of air into a foam solution to create bubbles that result in finished foam
9
Q
aerial apparatus
A
firefighting vehicle equipped with a hydraulically operated ladder, elevating platform, or other similar device for the purpose of placing personnel and or water streams in elevated positions
10
Q
aerial device
A
general term used to describe the hydraulically operated ladder or elevating platform attached to a specially-designed fire apparatus
11
Q
Aerial device extension cylinders
A
Dual cylinders fitted upon the base section of an aerial device that are used to extend the second section of the device.
12
Q
Aerial device hoisting cylinders
A
Cylinders responsible for elevating an aerial device from its stowed position. Also called Elevating Cylinders.
13
Q
aerial function interlocks
A
An interlock that will prevent the aerial device from operating until the parking brakes have been set and the transmission has been placed in neutral or the transmission is in the drive position with the driveline to the rear axle disengaged.
14
Q
aerial ladder
A
power operated ladder, usually employing Hydraulics, that is mounted on a special truck chassis
15
Q
aerial ladder truss
A
assembly of bracing bars or rods in triangular shapes that form a rigid framework for the aerial device
16
Q
air brake test
A
series of tests used to ensure the service stability of an air brake system. Test include air loss, air compressor build up, air warning, and emergency parking brake activation.
17
Q
airdrop
A
process of dropping water, short-term fire retardant, or long-term fire retardant from an air tanker or helicopter onto a Wildland Fire
18
Q
air-actuated braking systems
A
braking systems that use compressed air to hold off a spring break and applies air pressure to a service break for vehicle stopping. Parking brake
19
Q
aircraft rescue and fire fighting apparatus
A
Aircraft rescue and fire fighting apparatus. Vehicles that provide immediate suppression of flammable liquid fires and suppression of spill vapors on airport properties.
20
Q
alcohol-resistant aqueous film forming foam concentrate (ar-afff)
A
aqueous film forming foam that is designed for use with polar solvent fuels
21
Q
all-hazard concept
A
a coordinated approach to a wide variety of incidence colon all responders use a similar, coordinated approach with a common set of authorities, protections, and resources
22
Q
Alley dock exercise
A
The alley dock exercise tests the driver/operator’s ability to move the vehicle backward within a restricted area such as an alley, dock, or fire station without hitting the walls and to bring the vehicle to a smooth stop close to the rear wall.
23
Q
altitude
A
Geographic position of a location or object in relation to sea level. The location maybe either above, below, or at sea level
24
Q
ammeter
A
gauge that indicates both the amount of electrical current being drawn from and provided to the vehicle’s battery
25
anchor point
point from which a fire line is begun; usually a natural or man-made barrier that prevents fire spread and the possibility of the crew being flanked while constructing the fire line. Examples include lakes, ponds, streams, Rhodes, earlier Burns, rock sides, and cliffs
26
Angle of approach
The angle formed by level ground and a line from the point where the front tires touch the ground to the lowest projection at the front of the apparatus.
27
Angle of departure
The angle formed by level ground and a line from the point where the rear tires touch the ground to the lowest projection at the rear of the apparatus.
28
Anti-Electrocution Platform
A slide out platform located at the control panel of an aerial apparatus and designed to prevent the electrocution of the operator if the aerial device comes into contact with electric wires.
29
anti-lock braking systems
an electronic system that monitors wheel spin. When braking and a real are sensed to begin locking up, the brake on that wheel is temporarily released to prevent skidding
30
apparatus typing
categorization and description of apparatus commonly exchanged in disasters via Mutual Aid by capacity and or capability
31
application rate
minimum amount of foam solution that must be applied to an unignited fire, spill, or spill fire to either control vapor and Mission or extinguish the fire; measured per minute per square foot of area to be covered
32
aqueous film forming foam
synthetic foam concentrate that, when combined with water, can form a complete Vapor Barrier over fuel Spills & Fires and is a highly effective extinguishing and blanketing agent on hydrocarbon fuels. Also known as light water.
33
around-the-pump proportioner
apparatus mounted foam proportioner in which a small quantity of water is diverted from the apparatus pump through an inline portioner. There it picks up the foam concentrate and carries it to the intake side of the pump. It is the most common apparatus mounted foam proportioner in service
34
articulating aerial platform
Ariel device that consists of two or more balloons that are attached with hinges and operate in a folding Manor. A passenger carrying platform is attached to the working end of the device
35
atc
Automatic traction control. Helps improve traction on slippery roads, by reducing drive wheel overspin.
36
attack pumper
A pumper that is positioned at the fire scene and is directly supplying attack lines. A light truck equipped with a small pump and water tank.
37
atypically stressful event
term used in NFPA standards to describe incidents that have a likelihood of causing critical incident stress
38
auger
tool for boring / drilling holes in floors and other solid barriers including ice
39
auxiliary cooling devices
Devices that function to control the temperature of coolant in the apparatus engine during pumping operations.
40
Auxiliary Hydraulic Pump
A positive displacement pump that is electrically operated and is intended to supply emergency hydraulic pressure through the apparatus' main hydraulic system if the main hydraulic pump fails.
41
back flushing
cleaning a fire pump or piping by flowing water through it in the opposite direction of normal flow
42
back pressure
pressure loss or gain created by changes in elevation between the nozzle and pump
43
baffle
intermediate partial bulkhead that reduces the surge effect in a partially loaded liquid tank
44
base
location at which the primary incident management logistics functions are coordinated and administered, the incident command post may be co-located with the base. There is only one bas per incident.
45
Base Rails
The lower chords of an aerial ladder to which the rungs, trussing, and other portions of the ladder are attached. Also known as beams.
46
Basket stabilizer
The locking device that secures the aerial platform during travel of the apparatus.
47
Batch mixing
production of foam solution by adding an appropriate amount of foam concentrate to a water tank before application;the resulting solution must be used or discarded following the incident
48
Battalion
fire department organizational subdivision consisting of several fire service companies in a designated geographic area. A battalion is usually the first organizational level above individual companies or stations
49
beams
The lower chords of an aerial ladder to which the rungs, trussing, and other portions of the ladder are attached. Also known as base rails.
50
bed ladder pipe
Non Telescoping section of pipe, usually 3 or 3.5 inches in diameter, attached to the underside of the bed section of the aerial ladder for the purpose of deploying an elevated master stream
51
biodegradable
capable of being broken down into innocuous products by the actions of living things, such as microorganisms
52
bleed
process of releasing liquid or gas under pressure, such as releasing air from the regulator or cylinder of a self contained breathing apparatus; or allowing air to escape from a hoseline before or during operations.
53
bleeder valve
A valve on a gate intake that allows air from an incoming supply line to be bled off before allowing water into the fire pump.
54
Blitz attack
An exterior attack using large caliber fire streams directed at the seat of the fire in an effort to knock it down before it fully develops.
55
body substance isolation (BSI)
comprehensive method of infection control in which every patient is assumed to be infected' personal protective equipment is worn to prevent exposure to bodily fluids and bloodborne and airborne pathogens
56
Box Stabilizer
A type of aerial apparatus stabilizer that extends straight out from the frame of the truck with jacks that extend vertically to the ground at a right angle.
57
brake fade
The loss of braking function which occurs due to excessive use of the brakes.
58
braking distance
distance the vehicle travels from the time the brakes are applied until it comes to a complete stop
59
breakover angle
The angle formed by level ground and a line from the point where the rear tires touch the ground to the bottom of the frame at the wheelbase midpoint.
60
burnback resistance
The ability of a foam blanket to resist direct flame impingement such as would be evident in a partially extinguished petroleum fire.
61
Bypass-Type Balanced Pressure Proportioner
A foam concentrate proportioner that operates in tandem with a fire water pump to ensure a proper foam concentrate-to-water mixture.
62
cab interlock
An interlock that will prevent the cab from raising if the engine is running.
63
carcinogen
cancer producing substance
64
cavitation
A condition where water is being discharged from a fire department pumper faster than its coming in.
65
cdl
A driver's license that is issued two individuals who demonstrate confidence inspecting and driving vehicles with a gross vehicle rating of 26,001 pounds. Called CDL.
66
cellar nozzles
A specialized nozzle used in basement fires, which is lowered through the floor or through some other suitable opening. Also known as distributors.
67
centrifugal pump
pump with one or more impellers that rotate and utilize centrifugal force to move the water. Most modern fire pumps are of this type
68
chain of command
order of rank and authority in the fire and emergency services
69
chassis lubrication
applying grease and other lubricants to specific parts of a chassis to reduce wear, noise, and binding
70
check valves
automatic valve that permits liquid flow in only one direction. For example, the inline valve that prevents water from flowing into a foam concentrate container when the nozzle is turned off or there is a kink in the hoseline
71
chimney nozzles
A specialized nozzle developed to attack chimney flue fires. The nozzle delivers a very fine misty fog cone which can put the fire out quickly without causing damage to the flue liner due to sudden cooling.
72
chronic
long term and recurring
73
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
term for several diseases that result in obstructive problems in the airways
74
circle or walk around method
inspection method in which the driver or inspector starts at one point of the apparatus and continues in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction inspecting the entire apparatus
75
cistern
water storage receptacle that is usually underground and may be supplied by a well or rainwater runoff
76
clapper valves
a hinged valve that permits the flow of water in one direction only
77
class a foam concentrate
foam specially designed for use on class A combustibles. Class a foams, hydrocarbon based surfactants are essentially wetting agents that reduce the surface tension of water and allow it to soak into combustible materials more easily than plain water. Class a foams are becoming increasingly popular for use in wildland and structural firefighting
78
class b foam concentrate
foam fire suppression agent designed for use on ignited or unignited class b flammable or combustible liquids
79
cold zone
safe area outside of the warm zone where equip0ment and personnel are not expected to become contaminated and special protective clothing is not required; the incident command post and other support functions are typically located in this zone
80
collapse zone
The collapse zone is the designated hazardous area around a building that should be equal to one and one half the height of the building.
81
commercial drivers license (CDL)
a driver's license that is issued to individuals who demonstrate competence inspecting and driving vehicles with a gross vehicle rating of 26,001 pounds or more
82
company
basic fire fighting organizational unit consisting of firefighters and apparatus' head by a company officer
83
compressed air foam systems (CAFS)
generic term used to describe a high energy foam generation system consisting of a water pump, a foam proportioning system, and an air compressor that injects air into the foam solution before it enters a hoseline
84
condensed q formula
A formula that was developed for fireground operations in which friction loss can be determined for 3, 4, and 5 inch hose.
85
conductivity readings
A nondestructive test conducted on aluminum ladders through the registering of hardness and by taking conductivity readings throughout the length of the ladder. A wide divergence in the reading indicates a change in the integrity of the material.
86
constant pressure relay method
A relay pumping method that establishes the maximum flow available from a particular relay setup by using a constant pressure in the system..
87
contamination zone
The area between the hot zone and the cold zone which is considered safe for workers to enter briefly without special protective clothing. Also known as the warm zone, limited access zone, or yellow zone.
88
critical velocity
There are practical limits to the velocity in which a stream of water can travel through hoseline. If the velocity of the water increases beyond its limits, the friction within the hose becomes so great that the entire stream is agitated by the resistance.
89
culture
the shared assumptions, beliefs, and values of a group or organization
90
curb weight
The weight of an empty fire apparatus off the assembly line, with no tools, water, equipment or passengers
91
deadheading
operating a hydraulic pump without allowing flow through the system, which generates tremendous heat and pressure and can damage components
92
decomposition
chemical change in which a substance breaks down into two or more simpler substances. result of oxygen acting on a material that result in a change in the materials' composition; oxidation occurs slowly, sometimes resulting in the rusting of metals
93
defensive attack
exterior fire attack that is limited to controlling the spread of fire, with an emphasis on exposure protection
94
dependable lift
height of a column of water may be lifted in sufficient quantity to provide a reliable fire flow. Lift may be raised through a hard suction hose to a pump, taking into consideration the atmospheric pressure and friction loss within the hard suction hose. Dependable lift is usually considered to be 14.7 feet
95
diesel particulate filter (DPF)
device designed to remove diesel particulate matter or soot from the exhaust gas of a diesel engine.
96
distribution system
part of an overall water supply system that receives the water from the pumping station and elievers it throughout the area to be served.
97
distributor(nozzle)
a specialized nozzle used in basement fires, which is lowered through the floor or through some other suitable opening. Also known as seller nozzles
98
drafting
process of acquiring water from a static source and transferring it into a pump that is above the source's level; atmospheric pressure on the water surface forces the water into the pump where a partial vacuum was created
99
Dry foam
a Class A foam mixture containing low water and high air content in neighboring the phone to adhere to surfaces for exposure protection
100
Dry Hydrant
permanently installed pipe that has pumper suction connections installed at static water sources to speed drafting operations
101
Dry-barrel Hydrant
fire hydrant that has its operating valve at the water main rather than in the barrel of the hydrant. When operating properly, there is no water in the barrel of the hydrant when it is not in use. These hydrant are used in areas where freezing may occur
102
Dual Pumping
operation where a strong hydrant is used to supply to Pumpers by connecting the Pumpers intake to intake. The second pumper receives the excess water not being pumped by the first pumper, which is directly connected to the water supply source
103
due regard
driver/operators drive with due regard for the safety of others using the highways. State vehicle codes provide and give special privileges to the operators or emergency vehicles; however, this does not relieve the operator from the duty and responsibility to drive with due regard for the safety of others
104
dump line
secured hoseline that is used to handle excess water during a relay operation
105
dump site
location approved for water shuttle apparatus to discharge their water for other apparatus to draw during incident operations
106
dynamic load
loads that involve motion. They include the forces arising from wind, moving Vehicles, earthquakes, vibration, or falling objects, as well as the addition of a moving load Force to an aerial device or structure. Also known as shock loading
107
eduction
process used to mix foam concentrate with water in a nozzle or proportioner; concentrate is drawn into the water stream by the venturi method
108
eductor
portable proportioning device that injects a liquid, such as foam concentrate, into the water flowing through a hoseline or pipe. venture device that uses water pressure to draw foam concentrate into a water stream for mixing; also enables a pump to draw water form an auxiliary source.
109
elevating platform
work platform attached to the end of an articulating or telescoping aerial device
110
elevation
height of a point above sea level or some other reference point
111
elevation pressure
gain or loss of pressure in a hose line due to a change in elevation
112
engine compression brake
any device that uses the engine and transmission to impede the forward motion of the motor vehicle by compression of the engine
113
exclusion zone
the area around a hazardous materials incident which has been contaminated by the released material. Also known as The Hot Zone, Red Zone, or restricted Zone
114
fill site
location at which tankers/tenders will be loaded during a water shuttle operation
115
Film forming fluoroprotein foam
foam concentrate that combines the qualities of fluoroprotein foam with those of aqueous film forming foam
116
fire department connection
point at which the fire department can connect into a sprinkler or standpipe system to boost the water pressure and flow in the system. This connection consists of a clappered Siamese with two or more two and a half inch intakes or one large diameter intake
117
fire fighting boots
protective footwear meeting the design requirements of NFPA, OSHA, and CAN/CSA
118
fire flow testing
procedure used to determine the rate of water flow available for firefighting at various points within the distribution system
119
fireboat
vessel or watercraft designed and constructed for the purpose of fighting fires; provides a specified level of pumping capacity and personnel for the extinguishment of fires in the marine environment
120
fixed lights
vehicle or aerial device mounted lights that provide overall lighting's of an emergency scene. Capable of generating 500 to 1500 watts per lights
121
flowmeter
mechanical device installed in a discharge line that senses the amount of water flowing and provides a readout in units of gallons per minute
122
fly section
extendable section of ground extension or aerial ladder
123
foam
extinguishing agent formed by mixing a foam concentrate with water and aerating the solution for expansion; for use on class a and class b fires. Foam may be protein, fluoroprotein, film forming fluoroprotein, synthetic, aqueous film forming, high expansion, alcohol type, or alcohol resistant type
124
foam concentrate
raw chemical compound solution that is mixed with water and air to produce finished foam; may be protein, synthetic, aqueous film forming, high expansion, or alcohol types. Raw foam liquid as it rests in its storage container before the introduction of water and air.
125
foam expansion
result of adding air to a foam solution consisting of water and foam concentrate. Expansion creates the foam bubbles that result in finished foam or foam blanket
126
foam proportioner
device that injects the correct amount of foam concentrate into the water stream to make the foam solution
127
foam solution
the result of mixing the appropriate amount of foam concentrate with water; foam solution exists between the proportioner and the nozzle or aerating device that adds air to create finished foam. The mixture of foam concentrate and water before the introduction of air
128
fog stream
water stream of finely divided particles used for fire control
129
force
simple measure of weight, usually expressed in pounds or kilograms
130
four way hydrant valve
device that permits a pumper to boost the pressure in a supply line connected to a hydrant without interrupting the water flow
131
free play
amount of travel the clutch has before it begins to disengage the engine from the transmission
132
friction loss
loss of pressure created by the turbulence of water moving against the interior walls of the hose or pipe
133
front mount pump
fire pump mounted in front of the radiator of a vehicle and powered off the crankshaft
134
fulcrum type stabilizer
stabilizing device that extends at an angle down and away from the chassis of an aerial fire apparatus. Also known as a frame, scissor, or X style stabilizer
135
functional check
an inspection wear a certain system or component of an apparatus is operated to ensure that it is functioning properly
136
Gelling agents
superabsorbent liquid polymers capable of absorbing hundreds of times their own weight in water. These gels can be used as fire suppressants and fire retardants. Gels function by entrapping water in their structure rather than air, as is the case with fire fighting foams.
137
Gravity circle
theoretical safety zone that surrounds the center of gravity on an aerial apparatus.
138
grid system
water supply system that utilizes lateral feeders for improved distribution
139
gross axle weight rating
maximum amount of weight that an axle system can safely carry
140
gross negligence
willful and wanton disregard
141
ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)
device designed to protect against electrical shock; when grounding occurs, the device opens a circuit to shut off the flow of electricity.
142
ground gradient
electrical field that radiates outward from where the current enters the ground; its intensity dissipates rapidly as distance increases from the point of entry
143
hazard
condition, substance, or device that can directly cause injury or loss; the source of risk
144
hazard control zone
system of barriers surrounding designated areas at emergency scenes, intended to limit the number of persons exposed to a hazard and to facilitate its mitigation.
145
head
alternate term for pressure, especially pressure due to elevation. For every 1 foot increase in elevation, 0.434 psi is gained.
146
hearing protection
device that limits noise induced hearing loss when firefighters are exposed to extremely loud environments, such as apparatus engine noise, audible warning devices, and the use of power tools and equipment.
147
hoisting cylinder
hydraulic cylinders used to lift the aerial device from its bed to a working position
148
hot zone
potentially hazardous area immediately surround the incident site; requires appropriate PPE and other safety precautions. Typically limited to technician level personnel.
149
huck bolt
mechanically applied rivet used in the construction of some aerial devices; huck bolts can only be removed by drilling.
150
hydrant wrench
specially designed tool used to open or close a hydrant and to remove hydrant caps
151
hydraulic braking systems
braking system that uses a fluid in a closed system to pressurize wheel cylinders when activated
152
hydrocarbon fuel
petroleum based organic compound that contains only hydrogen and carbon
153
hydrolyze
to cause or undergo a chemical process of decomposition involving the splitting of a bond and the addition of the element water
154
hydrostatic test
testing method that uses water under pressure to check the integrity of pressure vessels.
155
ice shrugging
slowly extending and retracting the aerial device to remove accumulated ice
156
IDLH
description of any atmosphere that poses an immediate hazard to life or produces immediate irreversible, debilitating effects on health
157
impeller
vaned, circulating member of the centrifugal pump that transmits motion to the water
158
impeller eye
intake orifice at the center of a centrifugal pump impeller
159
incident commander
person in charge of the incident command system and responsible for the management of all incident operations during an emergency
160
incident management system
System described in NFPA 1561, that defines the roles responsibilities and standard operating procedures used to manage emergency operations. Such systems may also be referred to as incident command systems.
161
Initial attack fire apparatus
fire apparatus whose primary purpose is to initiate a fire attack on structural and wildland fires and support associated fire department actions.
162
Injection
method of proportioning foam that uses an external pump or head pressure to force foam concentrate into the fire stream at the correct ratio for the flow desired.
163
in line eductor
eductor that is placed along the length of a hoseline
164
in line proportioner
type of foam delivery device that is located in the water supply line near the nozzle. Foam concentrate is drawn into the water line using the venturi method
165
insurance services office (ISO)
private national insurance organization that evaluates and rates fire defense for all communities through the fire suppression rating schedule. Also serves as an advisory organization to other property liability insurance companies.
166
intake hose
hose used to connect a fire department pumper or a portable pump to a nearby water source; may be soft sleeve or hard suction hose
167
interlock
safety device that prevents a component from functioning when another component is functioning
168
inverter
step up transformer that converts a vehicles 12 or 24 volt dc current into 110 or 220 ac current.
169
jackknifing
condition of truck tractor/semitrailer combination when their relative positions to each other form an angle of 90 degrees or less about the trailer king pin, such as turning the tractor portion of a tractor tiller aerial apparatus at an angle from the trailer to increase stability when the aerial device is being used.
170
jet ratio controller (JRC)
type of foam eductor that is used to supply self educting master stream nozzles; may be located at distances up to 3000 feet from the nozzle
171
kickplate
four inch metal plate that runs around the bottom edge of an elevating platform to prevent a firefighters boot from slipping off the edge of the platform.
172
knuckle
joint between two sections of boom in an articulating aerial device
173
Large Diameter Hose (LDH)
Relay supply hose of 3.5 to 6 inches in diameter; used to move large volumes of water quickly with a minimum number of pumpers and personnel
174
Level 1 Staging
Used on all multiple company emergency responses. The first arriving vehicles of each type proceed directly to the scene and the others stand by a block or two from the scene and await orders. Units usually stage at the last intersection on their route of travel before reaching the reported incident location.
175
level 2 staging
Used on large scale incidents where a larger number of fire and emergency services companies are responding; these companies are sent to a specified remote location to await assignment
176
Lift
Theoretical, scientific height that a column of water may be lifted by atmospheric pressure in a true vacuum. At sea level this height is 33.8 feet. The height will decrease as elevation increases.
177
Line personnel
Personnel who provided emergency services to external customers (the public)
178
Load Chart
Graphical or tabular description of the load that can be distributed on an aerial device based on factors such as extension, elevation, stabilizer setup, wind, waterflow, and ice load
179
load management system
electrical monitoring system that will shed electrical load in a predetermined order if the chassis voltage begins to drop below a predetermined level
180
Load monitor
device that watches an electrical system for added loads that may threaten to overload the system
181
load sequencer
device in an electrical system that turns on lights at specified intervals so that the startup load for all the devices does not occur at the same time
182
load shedding
when an overload condition occurs the load monitor shuts down less important electrical equipment to prevent the overload
183
locked wheel skid
skid usually caused by braking too hard at a high rate of speed and locking the wheels. the vehicle will skid no matter which way the steering wheel is turned
184
maintenance
keeping equipment or apparatus in a state of usefulness or readiness
185
manhole
hole through which a person may go to gain access to an underground or enclosed structure. Opening usually equipped with a removable, lockable cover, that is large enough to admit a person into a tank trailer or dry bulk trailer.
186
manual shift transmission
component of the powertrain that receives torque from the engine and converts it to rotation to the wheels. a clutch is used to disengage the transmission from the engine to allow the apparatus to start, stop or change gears to maximize engine performance.
187
maximum lift
maximum height to which any amount of water may be raised through a hard suction hose to a pump; determined by the ability of the pump to create a vacuum.
188
mechanical blower
high expansion foam generator that uses a fan to inject the air into the foam solution as it passes through the unit
189
mechanical foam
foam produced by a physical agitation of a mixture of foam concentrate, water, and air
190
midi pumper
apparatus sized between a mini pumper and a full sized fire department pumper, usually with a gross vehicle weight of 12000 pounds or greater. The midi pumper has a fire pump with a rate capacity generally not greater than 1000 gpm
191
military specifications (mil specs)
specifications developed by the us department of defense for the purchase of materials and equipment
192
mini pumper
small fire apparatus mounted on a pickup truck sized chassis, usually with a pump having a rated capacity less than 500 gpm. It's primary advantage is speed and mobility, which enables it to respond to fires more rapidly than larger apparatus
193
miscible
materials that are capable of being mixed in all proportions
194
mitigate
to cause to become less harsh or hostile; to make less severe, intense or painful; to alleviate
195
mop up
overhaul of a fire or hazardous material scene. In wildland firefighting, the act of making a fire safe after it is controlled by extinguishing or removing burning material along or near the control line, felling dead trees (snags) and trenching logs to prevent rolling
196
National incident management system - incident command system (NIMS - ICS)
US mandated incident management system that defines the roles, responsibilities, and standard operating procedures used to manage emergency operations; creates a unified incident response structure for federal, state, and local governments
197
Negligence
breach of duty in which a person or organization falls to perform at the standard required by law or that would be expected by a reasonable person under similar circumstances
198
Net pump discharge pressure (NPDP)
Actual amount of pressure being produced by the pump; difference between the intake pressure and the discharge pressure.
199
Nondestructive testing
method of testing metal objects that does not subject them to stress related damage
200
Non potable water
water that has not been examined, properly treated, or approved by appropriate authorities as being safe for consumption
201
Nozzle reaction
counterforce directed against a person holding a nozzle or a device holding a nozzle by the velocity of water being discharged
202
nurse tanker
very large water tanker, generally 4000 gallons or larger, that is stationed at the fire scene and serves as a portable reservoir rather than a shuttle tanker
203
open butt
end of a charged hoseline that is flowing water without a nozzle or valve to control the flow
204
operational readiness inspection
inspecting an apparatus and equipment on the apparatus to ensure that all equipment is in place, clean and ready for service
205
outside screw and yoke (OS & Y) valve
Outside stem and yoke valve; a type of control valve for a sprinkler system in which the position of the center screw indicates whether the valve is open or closed.
206
Overload
operation of equipment or a conductor in excess of its rate ampacity; continuous overload may result in overheating that damages the equipment
207
over throttling
process of injecting or supplying the diesel engine with more fuel than can be burned.
208
Parapet wall
vertical extension of an exterior wall, and sometimes an interior fire wall, above the roofline of a building
209
performance requirements
written list of expected capabilities for new apparatus. The list is produced by the purchaser and presented to the manufacturer as a guide for what is expected.
210
personal alert safety system (PASS)
electronic lack of motion sensor that sounds a loud alarm when a firefighter becomes motionless; can also be manually activated
211
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
General term for the equipment worn by fire and emergency services responders; includes helmets, coats, trousers botts, eye protection, hearing protection, protective gloves, protective hoods, self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) personal alert safety system (PASS) devices, and chemical protective clothing. When working with hazardous materials, bands or tape are added around the legs, arms and waist
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pickup tube
solid or flexible tube used to transfer roam concentrate from a storage container to the in line eductor or proportioner.
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pin
mechanical means to secure the master stream monitor to the ladder; anchoring mechanisms may include pins, levers, or clamps.
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piston pumps
positive displacement pump using one or more reciprocating pistons to force water from the pump chambers
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polar solvents
liquid having a molecule in which the positive and negative charges are permanently separated, resulting in their ability to ionize in solution and create electrical conductivity. Water, alcohol and sulfuric acid are examples.
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policy
organizational principle that is developed and adopted as a basis for decision making
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portable tank
collapsible storage tank used during a relay or shuttle operation to hold water from water tanks or hydrants; this water can then be used to supply attack apparatus.
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positive displacement pumps
self priming pump that utilizes a piston or interlocking rotors to move a given amount of fluid through the pump chamber with each stroke of the piston or rotations of the rotors. Used for hydraulic pumps on aerial devices' hydraulic systems and for priming pumps on centrifugal fire pumps
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poss indicator valve (PIV)
type of valve used to control underground water mains that provides a visual means for indicating open or shut positions; found on the supply main of installed fire protection systems. The operating stem of the valve extends above ground through a post and a visual means is provided at the top of the post for indicating open or shut
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post maintenance/repair inspection
specific inspection to an area of a chassis or apparatus to ensure that the unit is operating properly in accordance with the manufacturers initial design.
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post incident analysis
overview and critique of an incident by members of all responding agencies, including dispatchers. Typically takes place within two weeks of the incident. in the training environment it may be used to evaluate student and instructor performance during a training evolution
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posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
disorder caused when persons have been exposed to a traumatic event in which they have experienced, witness, or been confronted with an event or events that involve actual death, threatened death, serious injury or threat of physical injury to self or others.
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power take off system (PTO)
mechanism that allows a vehicle engine to power equipment such as a pump, winch, or portable tool; it is typically attached to the transmission
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pre incident planning
act of preparing to manage an incident at a particular location or a particular type of incident before an incident occurs.
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premizing
mixing pre measured portions of water and foam concentrate in a container. typically, the premix method is used with portable extinguishers, wheeled extinguishers, skid mounted twin agent units, and vehicle mounted tank systems.
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pressure
force per unit area exerted by a liquid or gas measured in pounds per square inch
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pressure differential
effect of altering the atmospheric pressure within a confined space by mechanical means. When air is exhausted from within the space, a low pressure environment is created and replacement air will be drawn in ; when air is blown into the space, a high pressure environment is created and air within will move to the outside.
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pressure governor
pressure control device that controls engine speed, eliminating hazardous conditions that result from excessive pressures.
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pre trip road worthiness inspection
visual inspection of an apparatus to ensure the major components of the chassis are present and in proper working condition.
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priming device
any device, usually a positive displacement pump, used to exhaust the air from inside a centrifugal pump and the attached hard suction; this creates a partial vacuum, allowing atmospheric pressure to force water from a static source through the suction hose into the centrifugal pump.
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procedure
outline of the steps that must be performed in order to properly follow an organizational policy. procedures help an organization to ensure that it consistently approaches a task in the correct way, in order to accomplish a specific objective.
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proportioning
mixing of water with an appropriate amount of foam concentrate in order to form a foam solution
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protective coat
coat worn during firefighting rescue and extrication operations.
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protective gloves
protective clothing designed to protect the hands
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protective hood
hood designed to protect the firefighters ears, neck and face from heat and debris;typically made of nomex, kevlar or PBI and available in long or short styles.
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protective trousers
trousers worn to protect the lower torso and legs during emergency operations.
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protein foam concentrate
foam concentrate that consists of a protein hydrolysate plus additives to prevent the concentrate from freezing, prevents corrosion of equipment and containers, prevents bacterial decomposition of the concentrate during storage, and controls viscosity.
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proximity fire fighting
activities required for rescue, fire suppression, and property conservation at fires that produce high radiant, conductive, or convective heat; includes aircraft, hazardous materials transport, and storage tank fires.
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pump and roll
ability of an apparatus to pump water while the vehicle is in motion
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pump charts
charts carried on a fire apparatus to aid the pump operator in determining the proper pump discharge pressure when supplying hoselines.
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pump discharge pressure (PDP)
Actual pressure of the water as it leaves the pump and enters the hoseline; total amount of pressure being discharged by a pump. In mathematical terms, it is the pump intake pressure plus the net pump discharge pressure. Measured in pounds per square inch.
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Pumper outlet nozzle
fire hydrant outlet that is 4 inches in diameter or larger
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Pumper/Tender
Mobile water supply apparatus equipped with a fire pump. In some jurisdictions, this term is used to differentiate a fire pump equipped mobile water supply apparatus whose main purpose is to attack the fire.
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Quint
Apparatus that serves as an engine and as a ladder truck; equipped with a fire pump, water tank, ground ladders, hose bed and aerial device
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reaction distance
distance a vehicle travels while a driver transfers a foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal after perceiving the need for stopping.
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reckless disregard
act of proceeding to do something with a conscious awareness of danger, while ignoring any potential consequences of so doing. Reckless disregard, while not necessarily suggesting an intent to cause harm, is a harsher condition than ordinary negligence.
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refractometer
device used to measure the amount of foam concentrate in the solution; operates on the principle of measuring the velocity of light that travels through the foam solution.
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rehabilitation
allowing firefighters or rescuers to rest, rehydrate and recover during an incident; also refers to a station at an incident where personnel can rest, rehydrate and recover
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relay
to shuttle water between a source and an emergency scene using mobile water supply apparatus
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relay operation
using two or more pumpers to move water over a long distance by operating them in series; water discharged from one pumper flows through hoses to the inlet of the next pumper, and so on.
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repair
to restore or put together something that has become inoperable or out of place.
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rescue pumper
specially designed apparatus that combines the functions of both a rescue vehicle and a fire department pumper
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residual pressure
pressure at the test hydrant while water is flowing; represents the pressure remaining in the water supply system while the test water is flowing and is that part of the total pressure that is not used to overcome friction or gravity while forcing water through fire hose, pipe, fittings, and adaptors
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response district
geographical area to which a particular apparatus is assigned to be first due on a fire or other emergency incident.
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retroreflective trim
surfaces such as those used on road signs, emergency vehicle markings, protective clothing, or safety vests which are designed to reflect light along multiple planes at once, giving the surface the appearance of illumination
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risk
likelihood of suffering harm from a hazard; exposure to a hazard. The potential for failure or loss.
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risk management plan
written plan that identifies and analyzes the exposure to hazards, selects appropriate risk management techniques to handle exposures, implements those techniques, and monitors the results.
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road tests
preservice apparatus maneuverability tests designed to determine the road worthiness of a new vehicle.
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roll on application method
method of foam application in which the foam stream is directed at the ground at the front edge of the unignited or ignited liquid fuel spill;foam then spreads across the surface of the liquid.
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rotary vane pumps
type of positive displacement pump commonly used in hydraulic systems. A rotor with attached vanes is mounted off center inside the pump housing; pressure is imparted on the water as the space between the rotor and the pump housing wall decreases.
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safety data sheets (SDS)
form provided by the manufacturer and blender of chemicals that contains information about chemical composition, physical and chemical properties, health and safety hazards, emergency response procedures, and waste disposal procedures of a specified material.
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selector valve
three way valve on a fire department aerial apparatus that directs oil to either stabilizer control valves or the aerial device control valves.
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self educting master stream foam nozzle
large capacity nozzle with built in foam eductor
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self educting nozzle
handline nozzle that has the foam eductor built into it.
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shock loading
loads that involve motion; includes the forces arising from wind, moving vehicles, earthquakes, vibration, falling objects, or the addition of a moving load force to an aerial device or structure
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short jacking
setting the stabilizers on one side of an apparatus shorter than the stabilizers on the other side; usually done when access for full stabilization is restricted.
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siamese appliance
hose appliance that has two or more female inlets and a single male outlet. it is equipped with hinged gates (clapper valves) that prevent water from being discharged through an open inlet.
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situational awareness
perception of one's surrounding environment and the ability to anticipate future events.
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size up
ongoing evaluation of influential factors at the scene of an incident.
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skid
uncontrolled slide across a surface in a wheeled vehicle
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slack adjusters
devices used in an air brake system that connect between the activation pads and the brake pads that compensate for brake pad wear.
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solid fire stream
hose stream that stays together as a solid mass, as opposed to a fog or spray stream; a solid stream is produced by a smooth bore nozzle and should not be confused with a straight stream
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span of control
maximum number of subordinates that one individual can effectively supervise; ranges from three to seven individuals or functions, with fire generally established as optimum.
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Spotting
positioning the apparatus in a location that provides the utmost efficiency for operating on the fireground. Positioning a ladder to reach an object or person.
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stabilizer
device that transfers the center of gravity of an apparatus and prevents it from tipping as the aerial device, hydraulic lifting boom, gin pole, or A fram is extended away from the centerline of the chassis.
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stabilizer pad
unattached flat metal plate that is larger in area than the stabilizer foot; placed on the ground beneath the intended resting point of the stabilizer foot, in order to provide better weight distribution.
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stabilizer shoe
flat metal plate attached to the bottom of the aerial apparatus stabilizer to provide firm footing on the stabilizing surface.
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staff personnel
personnel who provide administrative and logistical support to line units
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staging
standardized process or procedure by which available resources responding to a fire or other emergency incident are held in reserve at a location away from the incident while awaiting assignment.
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staging area manager
company officer of the first arriving company at the staging who takes command of the area and is responsible for communicating available resources and resourced needs to the operations section chief.
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standard operating procedure (SOP)
formal methods or rules to guide the performance of routine functions or emergency operations. Procedures are typically written in a handbook, so that all firefighters can consult and become familiar with them.
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static water supply
supply of water at rest that does not provide a pressure head for fire suppression but may be employed as a suction source for fire pumps; for example, water in a reservoir, pond, cistern
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steamer connection
large diameter outlet usually 4.5 inches, at a hydrant or at the base of an elevated water storage container.
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steering wheel play
in a steering system, the amount of travel between turning the wheel and when the steering system moves
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stokes basket
wire or plastic basket type litter suitable for transporting patients from locations where a standard litter would not be easily secured, such as a pile of rubble, a structural collapse, or the upper floor of a building; may be used with a harness for lifting.
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structural fire fighting
activities required for rescue, fire suppression, and property conservation in structures, vehicles, vessels and similar types of properties.
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structural firefighters protective clothing
general term for the equipment worn by fire and emergency services responders; includes helmets, coats, eye protection, protective gloves, protective hoods, self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) personal alert safety system (PASS) devices
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surfactant
chemical that lowers the surface tension of a liquid; allows water to spread more rapidly over the surface of Class A fuels and penetrate organic fuels.
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tachometer
instrument that indicates the rotational speed of a shaft in revolutions per minute; usually indicates engine speed
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tandem pumping
short relay operation in which the pumper taking water from the supply source pumps into the intake of the second pumper; the second pumper then boosts the pressure of the water even higher. this method is used when pressures higher than the capability of a single pump are required.
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telescoping aerial platform
elevating platform equipped with piping systems and nozzles for elevated master stream operations. Telescoping aerial devices are not meant to be climbed and are equipped with a small ladder that is to be used only for escape from the platform in emergency situations.
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tender
term used within the incident command system for a mobile piece of apparatus that has the primary function of supporting another operation; examples include a water tender that supplies water to pumpers, or a fuel tender that supplies fuel to other vehicles.
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theoretical lift
theoretical, scientific height that a column of water may be lifted by atmospheric pressure in a true vacuum. At sea level this height is 33.8 feet. The height will decrease as elevation increases.
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throw out bearing
component used to push on the internal clutch fingers connected to the clutch pedal and when activated, disengages the clutch from the engine
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tillered trailer
trailer equipped with steerable rear wheels
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tiller operator
driver/operator of the trailer section of a tractor tiller aerial ladder apparatus
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tilt cab
truck that uses a cab that lowers over the powertrain
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torsional stress
twisting action or an applied force resulting in a rotational twist
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torque
force that tends to create a rotational or twisting motion. Measurement of engine shaft output. Force that produces or tends to produce a twisting or rortational action
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total stopping distance
sum of the driver reaction distance and the vehicle braking distance
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traffic control zone
operational zone established on or near a roadway for the rerouting of traffic and protection of civilians and responders; may include a hot, warm, and cold zone depending on the incident
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training evolution
operation of the fire and emergency services training covering one or several aspects of fire fighting.
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trunnion
in a hydraulic cylinder, the pivoting end of the piston rod that is connected to the anchor ear by the heel pin.
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turntable
rotational structural component of the aerial device. Its primary function is to provide continuous rotation on a horizontal plane
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unity of command
organizational principle in which works report to only one supervisor in order to eliminate conflicting orders
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vacuum
in the fire and emergency services, a pressure that is somewhat less than atmospheric pressure; a vacuum is needed to facilitate drafting of water from a static source
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variable flow demand type balanced pressure proportioner
foam proportioning system that is used in both fixed and mobile applications; a variable speed mechanism drives the foam pump and automatically monitors the flow of foam to produce an effective foam solution.
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variable-flow variable-rate direct-injection system
apparatus mounted foam system that injects the correct amount of ofam into the pump piping, thereby supplying all discharges with foam. the system automatically monitors the operation of the hoselines and maintains a consistent quality of foam solution.
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vaulted surfaces
ground above underground vaults, such as underground parking structures, utility chases, drainage culverts, and basements, that extends under sidewalks or underground transportation systems
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venturi effect
physical law stating that when a fluid, such as water or air , is force under pressure through a restricted orifice, there is an increase in the velocity of the fluid passing through the orifice and a corresponding decrease in the pressure exerted against the sides of the constriction. because the surrounding fluid is under greater atmospheric pressure, it is forced into an area of lower pressure.
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voltmeter
device used for measuring existing voltage in an electrical system.
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volute
spiral, divergent chamber of a centrifugal pump, in which the velocity energy given to water by the impeller blades is converted into pressure.
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warm zone
area between the hot and cold zones that usually contains the decontamination corridor; typically requires a leser degree of personal protective equipment than the hot zone
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water hammer
force created by the rapid deceleration of water; causes a violent increase in pressure that can be powerful enough to rupture piping or damage fixtures. Generally results from closing a valve or nozzle too quickly.
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water supply pumper
pumper that takes water from a source and sends it to attack pumpers operating at the fire scene
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water tower
aerial device primarily intended for deploying an elevated master stream; not generally intended from climbing purposes.
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wear rings
replaceable rings that are attached to the impeller and/or the pump casing to allow a small running clearance between the impleler and pump casing without causing wear of the actual impeller or pump casing material.
318
wet barrel hydrant
fire hydrant that has water all the way up to the discharge outlets; my have separate valves for each discharge or one valve for all the discharges. This type of hydrant is only used in areas where there is no danger of freezing weather conditions.
319
wildland/urban interface
line, area, or zone where an undeveloped wildland area meets a human development area
320
wye
hose appliance with one female inlet and two or more male outlets; the outlets are usually smaller than the inlet and are usually gated.
