Ambulance

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Defensive Driving Course Computer Based Self Study (continued)

Defensive driving is not just driving. There are things as vehicle operators that we should do before ever driving an ambulance.

Here are the items to check at beginning of shift or before each time driving:

Mirrors: Adjust the mirrors while sitting still, not driving down the road.

mirror

Controls: Be familiar with all controls so you do not have to look down to find them while driving.

console

Tires: Look to see if the tires look low on air pressure. To check the rear inside tire you will need to kick it or use some thing to hit it, since it is very hard to see this tire. Make sure that the tires have proper tread depth. If you are unsure about the tire have the garage look at it. The lugs on the wheels should be checked to be sure they are not loose.

tire tread

Fluid levels: Check all your fluid levels including your fuel level which should be at least half a tank. Refer to the vehicle manual to determine where and how to check your fluids. There is a page for this that will explain which fluids to check and what is considered low. If you find low fluid levels report it to your supervisor. You may purchase oil at Citgo if needed.

F. Y. I.: Our units use 15W40 motor oil

anti freeze

Anti-Freeze
Fuel

Fuel
Oil

Oil
trans fluid

Transmission Fluid

Lights and electrical system:

turn signal

Turn Signal

lights

Emergency Lights

Check all your lights.

  • Head lights, high and low beams
  • Tail lights
  • Turn signals
  • Hazard lights
  • Brake lights
  • Back up lights
  • All emergency lights
  • Scene Lights

And....

  • Siren Radio
  • Equipment Both handheld and mobile
  • Vehicle horn
  • Windshield wipers

All these items should be checked daily to ensure the safety of the crew and others on the highway. Report any issues to the shift supervisor, some items may be handled at the garage in a manner of minutes.

Exam Time:

Section 2

Answer the following questions before continuing to the next page

  1. Oil and other fluid checks should be done:
    1. at the garage
    2. at the pumps
    3. at EOC
    4. at the beginning of the shift

  2. If you find your unit low on oil you should:
    1. contact your supervisor for instructions
    2. use oil from your host station
    3. go to Advanced and buy some
    4. pretend you saw nothing and hope the next shift catches it

  3. What grade oil to our units use?

  4. True or False: Some simple repairs such as replacing light bulbs can be handled at the garage in just a few minutes.

  5. Any problems should be reported to the _________ who will arrange repair.

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