The annual FDSOA Apparatus Specification and Vehicle Maintenance Symposium is scheduled for Jan. 21-24, 2007, at the Rosen Plaza Hotel in Orlando, Fla. This well-known and well-attended event offers information and insights on a variety of important topics for fire service personnel.

The 2007 symposium will feature a broad range of speakers and presentations covering apparatus specifications and maintenance. Early arrivals can attend several sessions on Sunday including one discussing safe operations along roadways.

The main program kicks off on Monday morning with presentations by experienced professionals like Billy Goldfedder, William Peters, Don Frazeur and John Cummins. The afternoon sessions include seminars on apparatus specifications for pump-and-roll, fire department shop operations, auxiliary braking systems, second-generation multiplex electrical systems, new commercial truck chassis and developments in body materials.

On Tuesday, participants will hear morning presentations on new products, 2007 engine changes, electronic spec writing and the latest developments in ambulances. Afternoon sessions will cover CAFS, electrical diagnostics, suspensions and roll stability systems, tanker specs and third-party testing.

Wednesday morning starts out with a panel discussion on two noteworthy apparatus designs. It will be moderated by Janet Wilmoth, editorial director for Fire Chief magazine. Other presentations include changes in incident communications, apparatus maintenance during large-scale disasters, aerial specifications and the importance of considering safety when specifying apparatus.