Fire Apparatus Operator: Aerial

This course is based on NFPA 1010: Standard on Professional Qualifications for Firefighters, 2024 Edition. This course is designed to provide the structural Fire Fighter with the needed knowledge and skills to successfully operate an aerial apparatus. A must for departments using aerial apparatus, this course covers such topics as Types and Construction of Aerial Apparatus, Positioning Aerial Apparatus, Stabilizing Systems, and Maintenance and Testing.

Emergency Vehicle Driver/Fire Apparatus Driver (EVD/FAD) Pre-Course Requirements:

All students are required to complete the Emergency Vehicle Driver/Fire Apparatus Driver (EVD/FAD) pre-course work prior to the first day of class. This includes reading and reviewing Chapters 1 and 2 of IFSTA’s Pumping and Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator Handbook, 4th Edition. To assist with preparation, presentation slides, teaching outlines, and video lectures will be available through each student’s AFC online account. Failure to complete the assigned pre-course work before the start of class may impact successful course participation.

Students are also strongly encouraged to have a basic understanding of driving and operating their department’s apparatus before attending the course. Although all required driving Job Performance Requirements (JPRs) will be completed during class, time constraints will limit the amount of hands-on driving practice available for each student. Students who arrive with prior driving experience and familiarity with apparatus operation will be better prepared to maximize their learning opportunities and gain the greatest benefit from the course.