Not being actually IN the fire service, I'll throw in a thought or two on this "hot" topic.
Nobody has brought up what I find the most troubling aspect of the NFPA. My understanding is that the NFPA codes are written by committees, which consist largely of members of the companies that sell to the Emergency Services Industry, and thereby stand to benefit the most from implementation of the "standard". It's a TREMENDOUS conflict of interest, in my mind.
Yes, fire apparatus and equipment has been greatly improved and made safer through the efforts of the NFPA. BUT, the cost of equipment has skyrocketed, so that many, if not most, rural departments can't afford the "code compliant" equipment to begin with.
THEN, when "stuff happens", as it does in this life and death service, the department is blamed for not meeting a standard that's financially impossible for them to afford. Of course, the lawsuits only serve at further hurting both the people who serve, out of a sense of duty and altruism, as well as the people of the district, who get even LESS protection.
As my buddy who sells in the industry says, "It's a screwy industry".
OK, I'll stop ranting now . . .
-Michael
