Thursday, April 2, 2009

Equipment maintenance and replacement

The final component of our blog on pre-season maintenance covers personal equipment and equipment on the safety vehicle.

1. Cleaning, of firesuits and other protective items, if not done at season's end. Follow
manufacturers recommendations. Don't forget those helmets!
2. Powered hydraulic rescue tools should be refilled with fresh fuel...engine oil and all
appropriate filters should be changed...a new spark plug makes the power unit as easy to start
as possible. Hoses should be checked for damage or leaks...the fluid level in the reservoir
needs to be checked and refilled as necessary.
3. Medical kits and devices must be inventoried and restocked..expiration dates checked...items
like immobilization devices and back boards need to be cleaned...if used at a dirt track,
consider covering them with plastic bags to keep them as clean as possible.
4. Make sure all rechageable items are fully charged and fully functional. Radios need to be
periodically checked and maintained.
5. Check your personal holster and the like...fresh batteries to flashlights...sharpen knives and
scissors. Lubricate tools as needed. Clean everything!

While these lists are not perfect, they should give you some ideas and serve as memory ticklers to help you be as ready as possible for the upcoming season.

Have a great season...keep yourself and your crewmembers safe!

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