In a recent incident, a firefighter fell off of an aerial device platform but managed to grab onto a tree on his way down. Although this firefighter was not injured, his experience should be a reminder to us all that working on or around any aerial device requires training and special attention to stay safe.

All of us use products every day that are designed by engineers. Most products fall into one of three classes. Consumer products, like dishwashers, blow dryers, and vacuum cleaners are designed to be used out of the box by anyone. Lawnmowers, snow blowers, and power tools have the expectation that the user will read the instructions and use the product in a safe manner with the proper protective gear. Read More.

This article originally appeared in Fire Apparatus & Emergency Equipment, April, 2014.