This section applies to wildland fire apparatus meeting the
NIMS ICS typing of a Type 3 through Type 7 engine, and intended for use
combating fires occurring in natural vegetation or occurring in natural
vegetation and threatening improvements.
(1) In a wildland fire, an engine may provide
the primary protection for a crew in the event of unexpected fire behavior or
an action that places the engine crew in a position of being exposed to heat
and smoke.
(2) Apparatus speed must
be determined to be safe if in the judgment of the officer in charge, the
following are taken into consideration:
(a)
The particular wildland fire attack methods being utilized including, but not
limited to, the nature of the fire, the type of terrain, weather conditions,
equipment conditions, and whether personnel are positioned in wildland
firefighting enclosures;
(b) The
forgoing provision does not relieve a driver from the duty to drive with due
regard for the safety of all persons in all conditions;
(c) Nor does such provision protect the
driver from the consequences of their reckless disregard for the safety of
others.
(3) Because of
the sheltering offered by an engine, the following minimum standards must be
complied with:
(a) The number of individuals
working/assigned as an engine crew must not exceed the manufacturer's cab
capacity.
(b) Any time an engine is
moved when not directly attacking a fire, personnel must ride in the vehicle's
enclosed cabin area, in a seat-belted location, or be off the
vehicle.
(c) Any time engines are
used in a mobile attack configuration, and personnel other than the driver are
on the apparatus, personnel must ride in the manufacturer's enclosed cabin, or
use the personnel restraints and enclosures identified in WAC
296-305-07018.
(d) All personnel working on or around
engines in a ground mobile attack mode or in riding positions must have visual
or voice contact with the driver.
(e) Vehicles operating in smoke or dust must
have their headlights, and if so equipped, a flashing or rotating roof light
illuminated.
