IFSTA’s Pumping and Aerial Apparatus Driver/Operator Handbook, 4th Edition, is the most comprehensive source available for fire service driver/operator training content. With a focus on safety and efficiency, it encompasses everything needed to educate personnel who are responsible for operating all types of fire department apparatus. This manual aids driver/operators in meeting the job performance requirements (JPRs) in NFPA 1010, Standard on Professional Qualifications for Firefighters, 2024 Edition.

The first three chapters of this edition focus on the knowledge and skills necessary to safely operate different types of fire department apparatus. These chapters also address visual/operational checks and proper maintenance.

Chapters 4-14 of the manual address pumping apparatus. These chapters include content on general principles of pump operations, pressure calculations, flow rates, and fireground operations.

Aerial apparatus are addressed in Chapters 15-19. These chapters include content on properly positioning, stabilizing, and operating the apparatus. They also address fireground strategies and tactics for aerial devices.

Pumping Apparatus Content Features Include:

• Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’ Association (FAMA) standardized safety signs for fire apparatus
• Fire pump features and characteristics
• Pump operations from pressurized and static water sources
• Hydraulic calculations in a new format that aids teaching and learning
• Customary and metric calculations presented side by side
• Updated content on foam types, hazards, and application methods
• Appendices that highlight alternative methods of fireground hydraulic calculations along with calculations to supply structural sprinkler and standpipe systems
• New and updated skill sheets

Aerial Apparatus Content Features Include:

• A completely updated introduction to aerial apparatus (Chapter 15). This chapter goes into greater detail on more modern, updated aerial equipment and devices
• A focus on aerial apparatus safety that emphasizes the most common risks based on actual incidents, including: stabilizing equipment before raising the aerial device, wearing fall protection, and avoiding power lines
• Updated aerial strategies and tactics, including elevated fire attack, rescue operations, ventilation, and structural access/egress
• Proper stabilization, positioning, and operation of telescoping and articulating aerial devices
• New and updated skill sheets including skills for operating and maneuvering tiller apparatus