APPARATUS: THE SHOPS

Fire apparatus safety has significantly evolved over the years, driven by advancements in technology, engineering, and firefighter safety standards.

Early in my fire service career, we rode on the back step and stood in open jump seat areas—neither of which had seat belts. The only secured position was the driver’s seat, equipped with nothing more than a lap belt. Believe it or not, our warning light system consisted of a single rotating beacon on the roof. Looking back on those so-called “good old days,” it’s clear that we operated with minimal regard for safety compared to today’s enhancements.

As my career progressed, so did our focus, shifting toward safety and survival. Today, fire apparatus and crew safety are paramount in emergency response operations. Given the inherently hazardous nature of firefighting, it is crucial that fire apparatus are designed, maintained, and operated with safety as the top priority.

Safety features on fire apparatus play a crucial role in the work of emergency vehicle technicians (EVTs). As an EVT, understanding, maintaining, and troubleshooting these systems is essential to ensuring the safety of both fire personnel and technicians. With evolving standards, advanced electronics, and increasingly complex operating systems, it is imperative that EVTs receive regular training to stay current with the latest fire apparatus technologies.

Repairing and diagnosing issues with safety features on fire apparatus require a systematic approach, specialized knowledge, and adherence to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.

Following are key points for performing a systematic diagnosis on safety features.

Conduct a visual inspection. Check for damaged wiring, loose connections, or blown fuses in safety-related electrical systems. Inspect hydraulic, air, and mechanical systems for leaks or wear and ensure safety labels and indicators are intact and readable.

Use diagnostic tools by connecting to the onboard diagnostic system (OBD-II or J1939 CAN bus). Use manufacturer-specific diagnostic software. And, perform manual sensor and switch tests (seat belt sensors, door switches, etc.).

Verify electrical and sensor operations. Check for fault codes related to safety features. Use a multimeter to check voltage and continuity in circuits. Do not stick probes in wires—this will lead to bigger issues. Test relays, solenoids, and actuators involved in safety functions.

Be sure to test safety systems in a controlled environment. Perform air brake tests according to NFPA 1910, Standard for the Inspection, Maintenance, Refurbishment, Testing, and Retirement of In-Service Emergency Vehicles and Marine Firefighting Vessels. For lighting and warning systems, verify flash patterns, siren operation, and dashboard indicators. For seat belt and occupant safety systems, check proper engagement and alarms. Finally, for aerial devices and interlocks, confirm proper engagement sequences.

SRS WIRING ON FIRE APPARATUS

When diagnosing and repairing safety systems, it’s crucial to recognize supplemental restraint system (SRS) wiring, as accidental air bag deployment can be dangerous. Look for yellow loom or tape. Many manufacturers use yellow sheathing or tape to mark air bag-related wiring. Air bag system connectors are often yellow for easy identification. In some cases, SRS wiring may be integrated into a broader harness and not distinctly marked.

When handling SRS wiring, always disconnect the battery and wait according to manufacturer guidelines before servicing SRS components. Never probe SRS wiring with a multimeter; this could trigger deployment. Follow manufacturer repair procedures to

The Comstock (MI) Fire and Rescue Department made the following Facebook report June 14, 2025:

On December 12, 2024, Comstock Fire & Rescue was struck—literally and emotionally—while responding to an incident on the I-94 on-ramp during treacherous winter conditions. An out-of-control box truck slid into our scene, injuring two of our members (thankfully with only minor injuries) and damaging three of our vehicles—one of which was totaled.

One of the damaged engines was more than just a piece of equipment—it was a symbol of legacy. This engine had been part of a purchasing process led by our late Chief, Ed Switalski. It was ready for its first inspection when Ed was tragically struck and killed in the line of duty on I-94 on June 14, 2017. After his passing, several heartbroken members made the trip Pierce Mfg in Wisconsin to complete the inspection on Ed’s behalf. During that visit, the manufacturer honored him by placing a copy of Ed’s obituary inside the driver’s door. Our members also signed the inside of that door. In a final tribute, a memorial decal was placed on both sides of the engine.

Though this part of the story hasn’t been widely shared, that very engine—“Ed’s engine”—was the first vehicle struck on December 12. It was positioned ahead of a Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office cruiser (also damaged) and our now-totaled engine, which was the one captured on dashcam. In front of the totaled engine was the last of our department’s support vehicles, which was also struck. Additionally, Mcdonald’s Towing wrecker was damaged.

As shown in the photos, the point of impact on “Ed’s engine” was directly behind the driver’s door—the same door that held Ed’s obituary.

We truly believe Chief Ed was with us that day, just as he has been every day since his passing—watching over us, protecting our dedicated members, our fellow responders, and the public.

In a poignant twist of timing, the final repairs to Ed’s engine were inspected and approved at Pierce’s repair center just days before the 8th anniversary of his passing. The same copy of the obituary has been moved to the new door of this engine. The repaired engine is scheduled to arrive back in the community next week.

Gone, but never forgotten. Thank you, Chief Ed.

Watch dash cam footage of the totaled engine (not “Ed’s Engine”) here: https://youtu.be/DfeTjdF1C0Y?si=qPD5vVPHrHPJJpet