Bureau of Land Management

FIRE VEHICLE

DRIVER ORIENTATION

BL-300

Instructor Lesson Plan

February 2014

1

INTRODUCTION

Driving is one of the most hazardous tasks Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

personnel perform. Vehicle-related accidents are often one of the leading causes of 

firefighter deaths annually, resulting in significant expenditures from damage to 

property and equipment, associated medical treatment costs, and lost productivity.

While not all accidents can be avoided, knowledge of how to safely operate and 

work around vehicles can significantly reduce the exposure to accidents and near 

misses.

The intent of the Fire Vehicle Driver Orientation (BL-300) course is to provide all 

BLM fire personnel with the foundational knowledge to make sound decisions and 

maintain situational awareness while operating and working around fire vehicles so 

that everyone comes home safely.

Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire Aviation Operations policy requires that 

“All employees driving motor vehicles are responsible for the proper care, 

operation, maintenance, and protection of the vehicle, and to obey all federal and 

state laws.” Successful completion of BL-300 is a BLM driver’s first step towards

safely and responsibly operating fire-related suppression and support vehicles.

All students must have a current state driver’s license and/or a Commercial 

Driver’s License (CDL) Instruction Permit in their possession commensurate with 

the vehicle requirements they will be operating. All driving requiring a CDL will 

be performed in accordance with applicable Department of Transportation 

regulations. BLM drivers may operate vehicles requiring a CDL endorsement 

provided they possess a CDL instruction permit and a CDL-qualified passenger 

rides in the cab.
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NOTES
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DETAILED LESSON PLAN

CURRICULUM: BLM Fire Management

COURSE: Fire Vehicle Driver Orientation

SUGGESTED TIME: 1.5 hours classroom discussion

1.5 hours hands-on vehicle orientation and 

operations (outside exercises)

TRAINING AIDS

□ Computer with CD-ROM capability

□ Computer projector and projection screen

□ Flip charts and markers

□ Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire Aviation Operations (Red Book), 

current version

INSTRUCTIONS TO THE INSTRUCTOR

The instructor should review BLM policies and regulations regarding driving 

vehicles found in the Red Book in order to answer questions that may occur during 

the lecture.

The instructor needs to review and understand how to set up and run the outside 

exercises. Additionally, the instructor will need to find adequate space to conduct 

the exercises. The amount of time needed for these exercises will be dependent on 

class size and skill level. 

The exercises give the student the opportunity to practice the principles learned 

during classroom instruction in a controlled environment. Evaluators will need to 

pay special attention to the student’s comfort level and confidence. BL-300 is not 

intended to be a pass/fail course but an opportunity to orient students to equipment, 

operating rules, laws and procedures. Additional instruction may be needed 

throughout the season to enhance the student’s driving development process.
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FIRE VEHICLE DRIVER ORIENTATION 

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon conclusion of this course, students will be able to:

• Understand BLM policies and regulations related to driving a

government vehicle.

• Perform a driver walk-around inspection and engine start-up.

• Perform a vehicle pre-trip inspection.

• Describe and demonstrate the S.T.O.P. procedure.

• Correctly start and move a parked vehicle to another location.

• On an established course, demonstrate vehicle handling and

maneuvering capabilities, including but not limited to, backing,

positioning, parking, and braking.

• Demonstrate how to properly use spotters.

• Describe and demonstrate effective spotting techniques.
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NOTES
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

Present course objectives. Slides 1, 2, 3

I. BUREAU POLICIES Slide 4/SWB p. 2

A. Drug-free Workplace Slide 5

No one who is mentally or physically impaired 

(overly tired, on medication, intoxicated, etc.) will 

be permitted to drive an engine or other vehicle.

Red Book

B. Vehicle Operation

1. Drivers and all passengers must be properly 

seated in an enclosed cab and belted in with 

an approved seat belt when traveling on 

highways or off road.

Red Book

2. Posted speed limits will not be exceeded.

Lower speeds may be necessary during poor 

weather conditions or changing 

environmental conditions.

3. All drivers must have a current state driver’s 

license in their possession for the appropriate 

vehicle class before operating the vehicle.

• A commercial driver’s license (CDL)

instruction permit is available by taking 

the appropriate tests for the type of 

vehicle the driver will operate.

− An instruction permit is valid for 

up to 180 days.

− A driver with a CDL instruction 

permit must be accompanied at all 

times by a person who has a valid 

CDL license.
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

• A CDL with appropriate endorsements 

is required when:

− The vehicle GVWR is 26,000 lbs 

or more.

− Towing a vehicle 10,000 lbs 

GVWR or more.

− Hauling hazardous material 

requiring the vehicle to be 

placarded.

II. THE S.T.O.P. PROCEDURE—PREPARATION FOR 

MOVING A GOVERNMENT VEHICLE

Slide 6/SWB p. 3

All drivers of fire vehicles will use the S.T.O.P. 

procedure prior to operating a vehicle. The vehicle will 

not be moved until all four items in the S.T.O.P. 

procedure are addressed. 

A. “S” – Seat belts on? Slide 7

• Seat belts must be available and used in 

Bureau motor vehicles. Without exception, 

seat belts must be worn at all times by drivers 

and passengers, regardless of the distance to 

be traveled or the time involved.
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

• The driver is responsible for asking 

passengers if they are wearing their seat belts

and ensuring that they are worn at all times. 

B. “T” – Tools and equipment stowed? Slide 8

• Ensure all tools and equipment is secured in 

cabinets or approved storage areas before 

moving the vehicle.

C. “O” – Operator (driver) and crew have situational 

awareness?

Slide 9

• Determine if the vehicle is clear of hazards.

• Never back up without checking behind the 

vehicle.

• Utilize spotters (vehicle occupants) whenever 

possible.

D. “P” – Personnel accounted for? Slide 10

• Ensure all personnel are accounted for and 

their locations are known.

• Communicate your intentions to all personnel 

before moving the vehicle.

III. DRIVER WALK-AROUND Slide 11/SWB p.4

The driver walk-around will be done every time the 

vehicle is moved. This allows the driver to complete a 

360-degree visual inspection of the vehicle.

Slide 12

The walk-around begins as you approach the vehicle 

then continues in a clockwise or counter clockwise 

fashion.
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

Things to look for before to moving the vehicle include: Slide 13

• Rocks in the way of tires

• Debris or rocks stuck in duals or elsewhere

• Holes, berms, ditches, etc.

• Large stumps or downed trees

• Chock blocks secured and in place

• Gear or equipment around or under the vehicle

• Vehicles parked near the vehicle Slide 14

• Personnel relaxing or sleeping around vehicle

• Body damage that occurred while away from the 

vehicle

• Cabinet doors closed

• Side and overhead clearance in and near the path 

your vehicle will travel

IV. PRE-TRIP INSPECTION/PREVENTATIVE 

MAINTENANCE CHECK

Slide 15

A fire vehicle pre-trip inspection is done to help the 

operator and crew personnel find problems that could 

cause a crash or breakdown. This inspection should not

be confused with the driver walk-around which is done 

every time the driver moves a vehicle.

Slide 16

• The pre-trip inspection should be performed daily, 

generally at the beginning of each shift, even if the 

vehicle is not moved.

Red Book
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

• All BLM fire vehicles inspections will be 

documented in the Fire Equipment Maintenance 

Procedure and Record (FEMPR) or equivalent. 

Red Book

V. WORKING NEAR A MOVING VEHICLE Slide 17/SWB p. 5

When working in close proximity to a moving vehicle, 

there is an increased risk for an accident to occur.

A. Vehicle Danger Zones

Because of the design and size of our equipment

and the environment we work in, there are 

operator danger zones (blind spots). This visual 

aid was developed to help in identifying these 

areas.

Notify students that the letters correspond with the 

zone color. G – Green, Y – Yellow, and R – Red.

1. Green Zones Slide 18

The green zones are located directly left and 

right of the vehicle.

Slide 19

• Whenever possible, operate in the green 

zone.

• The green zones usually allow for visual 

contact with the operator.
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

2. Yellow Zones

Yellow zones are limited visibility and mirror 

use areas.

• Notify the driver when you are in these 

areas.

3. Red Zones Slide 20/SWB p. 6

The red zones are located directly in front 

and behind the fire vehicle.

• Never work in the red areas while the 

vehicle is moving.

• Notify the driver prior to entering red 

zones.

• Stay out of the red zone where the driver 

has no visual.

• The red area in front of the vehicle 

extends 10 feet out from the front 

bumper.

Slide 21

• You must have visual contact with the 

driver when working in front of the 

vehicle beyond the 10-foot range. 

B. Using Spotters

Always use a spotter to compensate for danger 

zones (blind spots) located in the driver’s field of 

vision. If alone and no help is available, drivers 

should get out of the vehicle and do a visual check 

themselves.

Slide 22
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

1. When to Use a Spotter Slide 23

Spotters should be used when:

• Backing up

• Performing off-road operations

• Hazardous conditions exist

• Low vehicle clearances exist

• Narrow/confined driving spaces exist

2. Spotter Techniques Slide 24

• The spotter should have a clear line of 

sight to the driver. The spotter’s position 

should be located as follows:

− Forward movement: Outside the 

forward red zone on the driver side 

windshield 

− Backing movement: Outside the 

rear red zone on the driver side 

mirror

• The spotter and driver should 

understand a common set of hand 

signals.

Instructors should review with students the hand 

signals that are used on the local unit.

• The spotter and driver need to 

communicate on the planned action.

Slide 25/SWB p. 7

− Where are we going to park?
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

− How far off the shoulder do we 

want to be?

− What areas are we going to be 

traveling through?

• Spotter distance from the vehicle will 

depend on various situations at the time 

of the maneuver; however, visual 

contact between the spotter and driver 

shall not be compromised.

− If the driver loses sight of the 

spotter, the driver should stop 

immediately and determine the 

spotter’s location.

VI. SITUATIONAL AWARENESS (SA) Slide 26

Situational awareness (SA) when operating a vehicle is 

the driver’s perception of what is happening or has 

happened around him/her. Lack of good situational 

awareness is the leading cause of vehicle-related 

accidents. 

Slide 27

A. Crew Safety Slide 28

• Know the location of your crewmembers and 

other personnel at all times.

• Never move a vehicle without ensuring all 

personnel are clear of the area.

• Communicate with personnel on vehicle 

maneuvers before moving.

• Honk your horn before moving the vehicle.

• Understand the vehicle danger zones. Slide 29
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

Ask the students to identify concerns in the picture. 

Possible answers: the nozzleman is out of sight of the 

driver and the nozzleman is directly behind the engine.

Slide 30

B. Safety Equipment Slide 31

Make sure safety equipment is being used 

correctly.

• Never move a vehicle until all passengers 

have their seat belts fastened.

• Adjust the driver’s seat.

• Adjust mirrors.

• Make sure the back-up alarm, if equipped, is 

working.

C. Pay Attention to the Surroundings SWB p. 8

1. Immediate Surroundings Slide 32

• Road conditions and type 

• Road shoulders

• Clearances

• Ground cover and type

Ask the students what they see in the red circle of the 

picture and what they see on this two-track road.
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

Ask the students what they see now. This engine was 

responding to a fire on this two-track road when the 

road gave way and the engine rolled. The stream had 

cut into the bank and undercut the road. 

Ask the students what could have been done to 

mitigate this hazard. Possible answer: Spotter walking 

out (scouting) in front of the vehicle.

Slide 33

2. General Surroundings Slide 34

• Rock piles/rock outcroppings

• Ravines/cliffs

• Damaged roads and/or bridges

Ask the students if they would drive their vehicle over 

this bridge.

What types of things can they do to mitigate the 

potential for risk? Possible answer: Inspect the bridge, 

look for alternate routes, and use a spotter.

Slide 35

D. Vehicle Placement at the Fireline Slide 36

1. Ingress and Egress Slide 37

• Never drive a fire vehicle into a place 

where egress is difficult.

• Parked vehicles need to face towards an 

exit (escape route).

• Do not block traffic or other fire 

vehicles.

• Leave keys in unattended fire vehicles 

during fire operations. 

Slide 38
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

• Roll up windows.

• When possible, park in the black.

− Watch for hot spots under tires.

− Watch for venting fuel from 

vehicle fuel tanks.

2. Fireline Hazards

Be aware of fireline hazards (snags, rolling 

debris, etc.) when parking the vehicle.

Slide 39

3. Parking on a Hill SWB p. 9

• Turn the wheels uphill or into the 

inside/embankment.

• Firmly set the emergency brake or 

parking brake.

• Put shifter in “Park” (if automatic 

transmission) or in a forward gear (if 

manual transmission); do not leave the 

transmission in neutral.

• Turn off the engine.

• Chock the wheels. 

− When utilizing chocks, make sure 

chocks are on the correct side in 

reference to the slope.

− Place chock snug against the tire 

(no large gaps between the tire and 

chock).
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

− Assure the chocks are approved to 

hold the weight of the engine and 

will grip the road surface.

VII. STARTING THE VEHICLE Slide 40

Operating BLM fire vehicles is more complicated than 

operating most passenger vehicles because of their

complicated diesel engines and integrated fire package 

systems. Additionally, various components, gauges, and 

switches must be addressed before starting the engine.

A. Battery ON/OFF Switch Slide 41

Most BLM fire vehicles have a battery ON/OFF 

switch located inside the driver side door next to 

the driver’s seat.

• Depending on the specific model of your 

vehicle this switch may needs to be in the 

“ON” position for the vehicle to start.

• When leaving the vehicle unattended, turn 

the battery ON/OFF switch to the “OFF” 

position to avoid battery drain.

B. Driver Adjustments Slide 42

• Adjust the driver’s seat.

• Adjust mirrors for proper alignment and 

maximum view.

C. Power Control Console Slide 43

Some fire vehicles have a power control console

that contains the power switches to operate the 

following features:

SWB p. 10
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

• Emergency Lighting Switches – Activate the 

emergency lights.

Slide 44

• Body Master Switch – If equipped, this 

switch provides power to the fire package.

Slide 45

• Pump Master Switch – Provides power to the 

pump.

Slide 46

• Radio Master Switch –If equipped, this 

switch provides power to the radio.

Slide 47

D. Automatic Transmissions Slide 48

Vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission 

must be in the “Park” (“P”) position or “Neutral” 

(“N”) position to start (varies by transmission 

manufacturer/model).

E. Manual Transmissions Slide 49

The clutch must be depressed to start vehicles

equipped with manual transmissions.

F. Ignition Slide 50

Start the engine by turning the ignition key.

• Allow glow plugs to warm up.

• Ensure water and glow plug indicator lights 

go off.

G. Alarms and Buzzers

• All alarms and buzzers should sound or come 

on. 

• Wait for alarms and buzzers to go off before 

releasing the parking brake.
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

H. Gauges Slide 51

All gauges should display within normal operating 

ranges.

I. Parking Brake SWB p. 11

Release the parking brake.

1. Air Brake System (if equipped) Slide 52

• Drivers will need to release the parking 

break by firmly pushing in the parking 

brake control.

− This diamond-shaped, yellow, 

push-pull control knob is typically 

located on the vehicle dashboard or 

within the driver’s reach.

2. Parking Brake System Slide 53

• Drivers will need to release the parking 

break by firmly pushing in or pulling 

out the parking brake control.

− This may be a foot pedal or in-dash 

lever.

J. Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Operations Slide 54

1. How the DPF Works
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

The DPF works by physically trapping and 

removing particulate matter from the 

engine’s exhaust to reduce particulate matter 

emissions. The soot that accumulates in the 

filter must be periodically reduced to ash to 

prevent excessive exhaust restriction. The 

soot reduction process, also known as “filter 

regeneration,” is generally performed 

automatically by the engine and aftertreatment system. 

2. Filter Regeneration

a. Passive Regeneration Slide 55

Passive regeneration occurs when 

exhaust gas temperatures are high 

enough to initiate combustion of the 

accumulated particulate matter in the 

DPF, without added fuel, heat or driver 

action. The driver may see a light in the 

information center typically yellow or 

green and solid. 

b. Active Regeneration Slide 56

Active regeneration may require driver 

action and/or other sources of fuel or 

heat to raise the DPF temperature 

sufficiently to combust accumulated 

particulate matter.

SWB p. 12

Be aware that filter regeneration may occur 

during inopportune times. Vehicle operators 

are responsible for familiarizing themselves 

with the vehicle owner’s manual to help 

mitigate the potential for unanticipated 

regeneration.
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

VIII. STEERING WHEEL HAND POSITIONS AND 

TURNING TECHNIQUE

Slide 57

Maintain the proper hand positions and proper turning 

techniques for all driving conditions.

Slide 58

• Place hands at the 9- and 2 3-o’clock positions on 

the steering wheel.

• Place thumbs on the outside of the wheel.

− This helps to avoid injury in the event the 

steering wheel reacts to the front tires hitting 

an object such as a rock.

• Use the shuffle hand technique when turning.

IX. SHIFTING MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS Slide 59

A. Putting the Vehicle in Motion Slide 60

1. Depress the clutch.

2. Select the proper gear.

• Second gear (generally) when starting 

on level ground.

• First gear when starting on steep slopes.

3. Let the clutch out slowly as you slowly 

depress accelerator.

B. Up Shifting Slide 61

1. Bring the tachometer to between 2,500 and 

3,000 RPM.

2. Depress the clutch.
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

3. Shift to a higher gear.

4. Let the clutch out slowly as you slowly 

depress accelerator.

C. Down Shifting Slide 62

1. Bring the tachometer to 1,500 RPM (avoid 

lugging the engine).

SWB p. 13

2. Depress the clutch.

3. Shift to a lower gear.

4. Let the clutch out slowly as you slowly 

depress accelerator.

D. Putting the Vehicle in Motion on a Hill or Slope Slide 63

1. Set the parking brake. 

2. Put right foot on brake; left foot on clutch.

3. Shift into first gear.

4. Let clutch out slowly as you slowly depress 

accelerator.

5. Feel a pull forward; then release the parking 

brake.

6. Maintain RPM through the climb.

X. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS Slide 64

A. Starting the Engine Slide 65

1. Start the engine in park.

2. Put right foot on the brake pedal.

3. Turn the ignition key to start the engine.
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

B. Select the Proper Gear for Travel

C. Putting the Vehicle in Motion

• Release the brake pedal, and drive in proper 

gear.

• If the transmission shifts constantly, go to a 

lower gear selection.

XI. AIR BRAKE USE Slide 66/SWB p.14

A. Normal Stops Slide 67

• Apply the brakes at first and gradually 

release as speed is reduced.

• Do not “fan” the brakes.

− “Fan” refers to the repeated rapid 

application and releasing of the air 

brakes during a stop.

− Avoid this action since it results in poor 

brake performance lowering the 

reservoir and air line pressures.

B. Downhill Runs Slide 68

• Use the proper gear reduction to maintain the 

vehicle at a safe speed.

• Brake application can be made intermittently 

to keep the vehicle well under control.

C. General Braking and Stopping Issues Slide 69

• Allow for extra stopping distance when 

driving a vehicle with extra passengers or a 

heavy load. 
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

• Be aware that water in the tank can slosh 

around even in a baffled tank. 

• There is potential for more skidding when 

braking on gravel roads than on paved roads.

• Apply gentle but firm pressure on the brake 

pedal.

− Do not lock up the wheels (dynamite 

braking).

XII. TERRAIN CONCERNS IN OFF-ROAD VEHICLE 

DRIVING

Slide 70

A. Mud and Sand Areas Slide 71

• Make sure the 4-wheel drive hubs and 

transfer case are engaged before entering the 

area.

• Maintain momentum.

• Keep front tires straight.

• Maintain a smooth, steady speed.

B. Side Hills Slide 72

• Be aware of load shifting (weight transfer). SWB p. 15

− Full versus partial tank of water

• Be aware of how load structuring affects your 

center of gravity.

− Coolers

− Packs

− Hose
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

• Be aware of soil types the vehicle is traveling 

over and their effects on sliding or rollovers

Slide 73

− Loose and sandy

− Hard pan

− Rocky or gravelly

C. Hills Slide 74

• Select the proper gear before climbing a hill.

− Do not force shifting while on a hill; this 

action could result in missing a gear or 

stalling.

• Down shift on the crest of a hill before 

descending.

− This prevents free-wheeling and missing 

a gear.

D. Road Shoulders or Dozer Berms Slide 75

When going over or coming out of road shoulders 

or dozer berms, address the following:

• Vehicle’s center of gravity

• Break-over angles

E. Water Fording Slide 76

• Unless stated otherwise in the Original 

Equipment Manufacturer’s (OEM) 

documentation, the maximum water depth to 

cross should not exceed the center-point or 

hub of the vehicle’s wheel.
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

• Remember to scout out water crossings,

checking the water depth and stream bed 

condition prior to making the crossing.

XIII. OUTSIDE EXERCISES Slide 77

The outside exercises consist of several driving stations 

which provide students the opportunity to practice the 

principles learned during classroom instruction in a 

controlled environment. 

Slide 78

SWB. P 16

This may be the first time that the student has 

operated a vehicle of this type. Evaluators must pay 

special attention to the student’s comfort and 

confidence levels. 

During the outside exercises, students will: Slide 79

• Perform a driver walk-around.

• Demonstrate driver situational awareness.

• Demonstrate the S.T.O.P. procedure.

• Perform an engine start-up.

• Drive a vehicle in an urban setting.

• Drive the vehicle in an off-road environment.

• Use spotters when appropriate.

• Be evaluated by an instructor.

Additional instruction and driving time may be needed 

throughout the season to complement development 

processes. 

Present the Fire Vehicle Driving Orientation (BL-300)

Student Evaluation to students.

Slides 80 and 81

SWB p. 17
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OUTLINE AIDS AND CUES

XIV. CONCLUSION Slide 82

A. Final Thoughts Slide 83

• Never move a vehicle without ensuring that 

personnel are clear!

− Use spotters where appropriate.

− Honk the horn prior to moving a 

vehicle.

− Buckle up!

B. Review Course Objectives Slides 84 and 85
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OUTSIDE EXERCISES

Exercise Intent:

The intent of the outside exercises is to allow the student to become familiar with 

driving a vehicle in a controlled environment. Instructors will evaluate and provide 

immediate feedback to students on their driver walk-around inspections, driving 

situational awareness (SA), use of the S.T.O.P. procedure, and handling and 

maneuvering capabilities (vehicle control).

Materials/Equipment:

□ Vehicle(s) similar to what each student will be assigned

□ Fire Vehicle Driving Orientation Student Evaluation (one for each student)

□ Evaluator(s) for each vehicle

Evaluator/Facilitator Information:

• As appropriate, present each scenario and task to students and participants.

• Stage tools and equipment on or around the vehicle for the students to 

identify and mitigate for each exercise. Create situations (cabinet doors left 

open, wheels not chocked, passengers not seat belted, personnel on or 

around engine, etc.) for the student to identify and correct prior to moving 

the engine.

• Talk to each driver and verbally critique each driver’s performance. Give the 

students feedback to improve their driving skills and SA.

• Discuss with students what could have been done differently.

EXERCISE #1

Driver Walk-Around

Scenario: You have been asked to do a driver walk-around on a vehicle in 

preparation for driving. A few passengers are getting their gear ready 

to load on the vehicle.

Task 1: Properly perform a driver walk-around following the procedures as 

described in the during classroom instruction.

Task 2: Have the passengers load their gear and themselves in the vehicle, and 

then prepare to leave for a new location in the yard.
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EXERCISE #2

Vehicle Start-up and Shut-down

Scenario: You have been asked to perform a complete and correct vehicle startup and shut-down procedure.

Task 1: Correctly start up the vehicle in preparation for movement. Remove 

chock and place onboard the vehicle, power up all necessary systems, 

make all driver adjustments, ensure all gauges are operating in the 

optimum range, engage transmission is in correct gear, release parking 

break, and pull forward.

Task 2: Correctly shut down the vehicle. Power down all necessary systems, 

place transmission in correct gear, apply parking break, and chock

engine.

EXERCISE #3

Driver Situational Awareness (SA)

Scenario: You have been asked to back up a vehicle to a loading dock. Another

passenger is getting his/her gear ready to load on the vehicle. Other 

personnel in the yard are doing the same thing in preparation for initial 

attack (IA) work. Multiple IA fires have been reported on the district 

from a storm that occurred the night before.

Task 1: Properly carry out the movement of the vehicle in the yard keeping in 

mind situational awareness.
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EXERCISE #4

Vehicle Start-up and Driving

Scenario: You have been asked to start and move a vehicle to a predetermined 

location in the BLM yard; there are other passengers in the vehicle.

Task 1: Properly perform vehicle start-up by following the procedures as 

described during classroom instruction.

Task 2: Once the vehicle has been started and all warning lights and buzzers 

are off, release the parking brake and move the vehicle to the 

predetermined parking spot.

Task 3: After the vehicle has been moved to the designated spot, demonstrate 

proper shut-down procedures.

EXERCISE #5

Urban and Off-Road Driving

Scenario: You have been asked to drive the vehicle in an urban and off-road 

setting. 

Task 1: Operate the vehicle in an urban setting while maintaining situational 

awareness.

Task 2: Operate the vehicle in a pre-established, off-road setting, maneuvering 

along two-track roads, washouts and draws, and on steep slopes.

Task 3: Utilize spotters while keeping the vehicle danger zones in mind. 
32

EXERCISE #6

Backing and Spotter Use

Scenario: You have been asked to start up and back up the vehicle to a 

predetermined location.

Task 1: Position the vehicle to back into the predetermined spot.

Task 2: Identify a spotter to assist you in backing and inform him/her how you 

are going to position the vehicle.

Task 3: Utilize the vehicle mirrors to locate the spotter, honk horn, and 

proceed to back into the parking spot. 

Task 4: After the vehicle has been moved to the designated spot, demonstrate 

proper shut-down procedures.
33

Bureau of Land Management

Fire Vehicle Driver Orientation (BL-300)

Driver must have a valid state driver’s license in their possession for appropriate vehicle class before operating the vehicle.

Student Evaluator

Printed Name Printed Name

Duty Station Duty Station

Task A* B* C* D*

Demonstrated knowledge of BLM Driving Policy per the Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire 

Aviation Operations.

Completed an initial driver walk around.

Demonstrated knowledge of completing a vehicle inspection utilizing the Fire Equipment 

Maintenance and Procedure Record (FEMPR) or equivalent. 

Demonstrated how to properly start up and shut down the vehicle.

• Ensured gauges are functioning properly.

• Allowed glow plugs to warm up.

• Ensured seat belts were worn.

• Performed driver adjustments.

• Released/engaged parking brake.

Demonstrated the following correct urban driving skills:

• Started and stopped the vehicle on a flat surface, incline, and decline.

• Merged with traffic.

• Controlled vehicle speed for various road and traffic conditions while using proper gears.

• Properly backed up the vehicle.

• Correctly parked the vehicle.

• Maneuvered in city traffic.

Demonstrated the following off-highway driving skills:

• Maneuvered along a two-track road.

• Maneuvered through washouts and draws.

• Maneuvered through rocky terrain utilizing a spotter.

• Maneuvered on rough, steep slopes, and side hills.

Maintained situational awareness.

• Utilized spotters.

• Established communication between spotter and driver.

• Accounted for personal safety.

• Utilized mirrors.

Discussed proper methods and procedures for maneuvering through streams, waterways, or standing 

water.

Demonstrated the ability to park and secure a vehicle at various locations; e.g., city/town, field 

environment, road shoulder, and work yard.

Discussed and demonstrated use of the S.T.O.P. procedure.

Discuss and demonstrated the use of the Operator Command Regeneration System (OCR), if 

equipped.

*Type of Vehicle Used:

A) <26,000 GVWR (list type): _______________________________________________

B) >26,000 GVWR (list type): _______________________________________________

C) Hummer (650)

D) Super Heavy (668)

Student Signature Date Evaluator Signature Date
34

NOTES