Emergency Vehicle Technician Warren Miller has 54 certifications, including master levels in emergency vehicle technician, automotive service excellence and school bus. Miller, whoc puts those certifications to good use at the Loveland (Colo.) Department of Public Works-Vehicle Maintenance Division, recently was named FIRE CHIEF's 2009 In Service EVT of the Year.

Has the slumping economy changed how you approach maintenance?

It is important as ever to perform thorough maintenance and inspections. The cost of new apparatus is skyrocketing, and replacement funds are falling prey to other needs in the tight budgets. It is likely that the service life of our apparatus will be extended beyond what was anticipated. Providing safe apparatus never must be compromised by tight budgets. Therefore the cost of maintaining safe, dependable equipment probably will increase.

What's the biggest challenge in keeping vehicles running?

The addition of more and more electronics can be challenging, especially as the apparatus ages. If an EVT doesn't have a good electrical background, this goes from challenging to a nightmare. Electronic components depend on good integrity in the wiring and circuits. Corrosion in connections and wiring has caused hair loss to more than one EVT.

What vehicle changes have been most troubling to EVTs?

The effects of new EPA-mandated diesel-emission standards have had a significant impact on purchasing and maintenance. With engine manufacturers discontinuing production of some popular models, the expense of buying special tools, diagnostic equipment, service and repair parts, and training for a different make of engine can be overwhelming, especially to a small department.

What is important when buying apparatus?

Standardization can make the job of the driver, firefighter and EVT so much easier. It is a goal that we have been struggling to meet in our mid-sized department. In recent years, there have been so many changes in the truck and apparatus business, that it can prove extremely challenging to purchase an apparatus identical to one that was purchased only two years ago. In addition to that, the example of the perfect apparatus for any given department seems to be ever-changing.

What role does driver behavior play in a vehicle's condition?

Obviously an abusive or careless driver/operator can cause headaches for an EVT. Shortened brake life and damaged suspension are just a couple of examples that can result. Our department does an excellent job of training the driver/operators. I don't believe that any department wants to budget for unnecessary repairs, so this training can be imperative.

How do you get the most life from vehicles?

There is no doubt that proper driver training and a comprehensive maintenance program will extend the life of your equipment. One thing that may be overlooked is how important it has become to clean winter road salts and chemicals off the chassis and body. In Colorado and many other states, the damage caused by these snow- and ice-removing chemicals can be extensive to bodies, chassis and electrical systems. To extend the life of these vehicles, we are going to have to find a way to keep them clean during the busy winter months.

Is it important to understand the job of firefighters or EMTs?

Having an understanding of how equipment is used and what is expected of it does have an impact on how I approach maintenance and repairs. Knowing that lives may depend on an emergency vehicle arriving on scene or keeping water flowing from hand lines when firefighters are in a burning building are definitely on my mind when I am servicing or repairing the apparatus. Attention to detail is important for any technician, but I think an EVT needs to take that to the next level.

How can drivers keep the vehicles in better working order?

Those monotonous daily, weekly and monthly inspections truly are important to the performance and safety of the apparatus. The EVT only sees the truck when doing scheduled maintenance or when something is broken. A problem caught by a driver's inspection could prevent unexpected failure and save on down time.

With the help of my co-worker and master EVT, Corey Lane, we have provided training to the department on their inspections and what they are to be looking for. After the accident in Boston, we put together another training class on air-brake fundamentals and how to recognize problems. [Ed.: For more on the Boston accident, turn to page 54.]

Any advice for beginning EVTs?

Training in this field is second only to experience. Don't be afraid to take advantage of another EVT's knowledge and experience. Ask for guidance and help when you need it. Training can be expensive, but local EVT associations are an excellent avenue to acquire good training classes at affordable rates, let alone the priceless networking with other EVTs. Pursue certifications in your field. ASE and EVTCC put together some challenging tests to help prove your competency. I know that studying for certification exams has taught me a tremendous amount of valuable information. These certifications that may seem worthless to some in actuality only reinforce the credibility that you work so hard to establish.

What will be the EVT's biggest challenge in five or 10 years?

It appears that with current state of the economy, maintaining an aging fleet may prove to be a huge challenge.

Related Stories

• Inservice special report section