FirstFleet, Inc.

Don't Get Burned by Roadcheck 2021

John Cole — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 19:00:00 GMT

This year's Roadcheck 2021 enforcement emphasis begins Tues, May 4 and ends Thurs, May 6.

This year's special emphasis is on lighting and hours of service.

Why should you take roadcheck seriously?

During last year's Roadcheck 2020:

There were over 45,000 Level 1, 2, & 3 inspections conducted
27.5% of Level 1 inspections put a truck/trailer out of service
5.3% of drivers inspected were placed out of service

Inspectors will be looking for critical vehicle inspection item violations. If those violations are found, the vehicle will be placed out of service, which means that vehicle cannot be operated until the identified out-of-service conditions have been corrected.

Vehicles that successfully pass inspection without any critical vehicle inspection item violations found after a completed Level I or Level V Inspection should receive a CVSA decal. In general, vehicles with a CVSA decal are not re-inspected during the three-month period during which the decal is valid. Instead, inspectors focus their efforts on vehicles without a valid CVSA decal.

Also, during an inspection, inspectors will check the driver’s operating credentials, hours-of-service documentation, seatbelt usage, and for alcohol and/or drug impairment. A driver will be placed out of service if an inspector discovers driver-related out-of-service conditions.

Are You Ready?

HOS:

CDL Drivers must follow rules that limit the hours spent driving and working and that regulate the minimum amount of rest between driving shifts. The strict hours of service regulations are in place to help reduce driver fatigue. If stopped during Roadcheck 2021, you will be required to show the inspector that you know how to use your ELD/Platform Science Tablet. Refresh your memory by watching this video overview.

Lights:

Lighting devices include headlamps, tail lamps, clearance lamps, identification lamps, license plate and side marker lamps, stop lamps, turn signals and lamps on projecting loads. All required lighting devices are inspected for proper color, operation, mounting and visibility. The condition and location of reflectors and retroreflective sheeting are also inspected.

The top vehicle violation in the U.S. in fiscal 2020 was inoperable required lamp, accounting for 12.2% of all vehicle violations and 4.4% of all out-of-service vehicle violations. Moreover, taking into account all possible lighting-related violations issued in fiscal 2020, one in four vehicles chosen for inspection (25.3%) was issued a lighting-related violation. Slightly more than one in seven out-of-service violations (16.4%) in the U.S. was lighting related.

These violations can be largely avoided by checking the condition and location of reflectors and retroreflective sheeting, and by checking all required lamps/turn signals mentioned above and ensuring they are operative, properly mounted and not obscured in any way.

Good Pre-Trip Inspections are a must!

Will you and your vehicle be ready?

Thanksgiving Holiday Travel

John Cole — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 17:00:00 GMT

It might get a little crowded around the Thanksgiving table for many this year, but there is going to be another crowded location that will require our undivided attention!

Traffic volume for the upcoming holiday weekend is expected to be the highest in 13 years with 54.3 million Americans planning to travel. That’s 2.5 million more than a year ago according to AAA’s holiday forecast.

The vast majority of those travelers — 48.5 million Americans — will be on the same highways as you go about your truck driving duties.

The Thanksgiving holiday period is defined as Wednesday, Nov. 21 thru Sunday, Nov. 25. Based on historical and recent travel trends, travel volume will start to increase on Monday. Thanksgiving is one of the busiest holidays for road trips, and this year will be no different. In most cases, the best days to travel will be on Thanksgiving Day, Friday or Saturday. Drivers should expect increased travel times on Wednesday afternoon and on into the night. Also, expect heavy traffic on Sunday as most holiday travelers will be making their way home after the long weekend.

Please be watchful of distracted or fatigued drivers, be attentive to your speed, keep a safe following distance and expect the unexpected from other travelers during this heavily traveled holiday!

RoadCheck 2018

John Cole — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 20:21:00 GMT

Today is the second day of Roadcheck 2018. With 48 more hours to go there should be a lot of activity with the CVSA inspecting trucks a buses across the nation. Please make sure you have approved your logs in the 8-day tab and your trailer and shipping documents are correct in your load tab.

Proper Pre-Trips must be conducted in an effort to reduce any violations or Out of Service orders. Last year 15,000 out-of-service orders were issued! Are you prepared?

RoadCheck 2018

John Cole — Tue, 05 Jun 2018 18:38:00 GMT

A quick reminder that RoadCheck 2018 starts on today June 5 and runs 72 hours thru June 7. ELD Hours of Service will be the main emphasis for all inspections but each inspection will be a Level 1 inspection which is the most thorough inspection for both driver and vehicle. Please make sure you have your visor card (DOT quick reference card) and at least 10 days of blank logs.

Please perform a great Pre-Trip inspection and also a great Post-Trip inspection in an effort to find any defects so they may be repaired before the equipment is scheduled to go out again.

Last year, an average of 15 trucks and busses were inspected every minute! Are you prepared?

Operation Safe Driver Week, October 15-21

John Cole — Wed, 18 Oct 2017 19:00:00 GMT

Law enforcement agencies throughout North America will engage in heightened traffic safety enforcement and educational outreach as part of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) Operation Safe Driver Week, Oct. 15-21, 2017. Throughout the week, enforcement personnel will identify and issue warnings and/or citations to commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers and passenger-vehicle drivers exhibiting unsafe driving behaviors on our roadways.

Unsafe driver behaviors by CMV drivers and passenger-vehicle drivers continue to be the leading cause of crashes. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) “Large Truck Crash Causation Study” cites driver behavior as the critical reason for more than 88 percent of large truck crashes and 93 percent of passenger-vehicle crashes.

CVSA’s Operation Safe Driver Program was created to help to reduce the number of crashes, deaths and injuries involving large trucks, buses and passenger vehicles due to unsafe driving behaviors. During Operation Safe Driver Week, there will be increased CMV and passenger-vehicle traffic enforcement.

Examples of dangerous driver behaviors that enforcement personnel will be tracking throughout Operation Safe Driver Week are speeding, distracted driving, texting, failure to use a seat belt, traveling too closely, improper lane change, failure to obey traffic control devices, etc., while operating a CMV or in a passenger vehicle.

Operation Safe Driver Week is sponsored by CVSA, in partnership with FMCSA and with support from industry and transportation safety organizations, and aims to help improve the behavior of all drivers operating in an unsafe manner – either in or around a CMV – through educational and traffic enforcement strategies to address individuals exhibiting high-risk driving behaviors.

Brake Safety Day: September 7, 2017

John Cole — Tue, 05 Sep 2017 15:00:00 GMT

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) will hold its annual Brake Safety Day on Thursday, September 7, 2017. Law enforcement agencies will conduct inspections on large trucks to identify out-of-adjustment brakes, brake-system and antilock braking system (ABS) violations as part of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) Operation Airbrake Program.

Brake Safety Day was created by the CVSA to help reduce the number of crashes caused by poorly maintained braking systems on commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). Inspectors will be advised to not only identify, but also remove vehicles from roadways that have critical brake violations.

During the last Brake Safety Day, which was May 3, 2017, more than 8,140 commercial motor vehicles were inspected. During that event, violations were found on 4,635 tractors and 3,222 trailers.

Brake Safety Day aims to improve commercial motor vehicle brake safety awareness throughout North America. Brake-related violations comprise the largest percentage of all out-of-service violations cited during roadside inspections. Improperly installed or poorly maintained brake systems can reduce the braking capability and increase stopping distances of trucks and buses, which pose a serious risk to driver and public safety.

Please make sure you conduct a thorough inspection of your airlines, brake adjustments and brake components during your Pre-Trip and Post-Trip inspections.

Safety…it’s a full time job. Please don’t make it a part time practice!

Drivers be aware!

John Cole — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 21:15:00 GMT

On Monday August 21, 2017 a Total Solar Eclipse will be visible in the continental United States. The moon will completely cover the sun for anywhere up to 3 minutes in a band across the country. This band is roughly 65 miles wide, and extends from Oregon to South Carolina. We want our drivers to watch their speed and distance as normal, but be prepared for additional interstate congestion.

A link to the path of the eclipse can be found here.

The U. S. Department of Transportation released the following safety tips:

Don’t stop along the interstate or park on the shoulder during the event.
Exit the highway to a safe location to view and/or photograph the eclipse.
Don’t take photographs while driving!
Don’t try to wear opaque eclipse glasses while operating a vehicle.
Turn your headlights on -- do not rely on your automatic headlights when the eclipse blocks out the sun.
Watch out for pedestrians along smaller roads. People may be randomly parking and walking alongside the roadside in the hours around the eclipse to get the best view.
Prepare for extra congestion especially on the interstates in the path on the day before, day of and day after the eclipse.

CVSA Roadcheck 2017

John Cole — Thu, 08 Jun 2017 13:00:00 GMT

CVSA’s Roadcheck 2017 is to be held June 6-8, 2017 with special emphasis on cargo securement. It is estimated that during this time, an average of 17 trucks or buses will be inspected every minute during the 72-hour event. During the 2016 event, 42,236 Level 1 inspections were conducted.

A Level 1 inspection is a 37-step procedure that involves an examination of both the driver and vehicle. Of those Level 1 inspections conducted, 21.5% of vehicles and 3.4% of drivers were placed out of service due to critical item violations. Please make sure you and your vehicle are ready!

CVSA Roadcheck 2017

John Cole — Wed, 07 Jun 2017 13:00:00 GMT

CVSA’s Roadcheck 2017 is to be held June 6-8, 2017 with special emphasis on cargo securement. During the 2016 event, 42,236 Level 1 inspections were conducted. A Level 1 inspection is a 37-step procedure that involves an examination of both the driver and vehicle. Of those Level 1 inspections conducted, 21.5% of vehicles and 3.4% of drivers were placed out of service due to critical item violations. Please make sure you and your vehicle are ready!

CVSA Roadcheck 2017

John Cole — Tue, 06 Jun 2017 13:00:00 GMT

CVSA’s Roadcheck 2017 is to be held June 6-8, 2017 with special emphasis on cargo securement. Over this 72-hour period, CVSA-certified commercial motor vehicle inspectors throughout North America will conduct inspections of commercial motor vehicles and their drivers.

While flatbed loads will be the easiest to inspect don’t think for one minute if you have a sealed load and even a lock on your van trailer they won’t inspect your load. The inspectors have the authority to cut the lock and break the seal in order to inspect your load for proper securement. Please make sure your load is properly secure before departing on your trip. Will you and your vehicle be ready?

CVSA Roadcheck 2017

John Cole — Mon, 05 Jun 2017 16:00:00 GMT

CVSA’s Roadcheck 2017 is to be held June 6-8, 2017 with special emphasis on cargo securement. Inspectors will primarily be conducting the North American Standard Level 1 Inspection, which is the most thorough roadside inspection! It is a 37-step procedure that includes an examination of both driver and vehicle.

Drivers will be required to provide items such as their driver’s license, hours-of-service documentation, motor carrier registration and shipping documentation. Inspectors will be checking drivers for seat belt usage and the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

The vehicle inspection will include checking items such as the brakes systems, cargo securement, coupling devices, driveline/driveshaft, exhaust systems frames, fuel systems, lighting devices (required lamps), steering mechanisms, suspensions, tires, van, open-top, and flat-bed trailers, wheels, rims and hubs, windshield wipers, and even both horns are in good working order! Will you and your vehicle be ready?

Slip & Fall Prevention

John Cole — Thu, 15 Dec 2016 16:30:00 GMT

Winter weather creates the perfect conditions for slips and falls.
In the trucking industry, winter ice and snow slip and fall injuries account for 1/3 of all workers' comp claims.

So, to help avoid injury when walking on ice and snow, here are some simple tips:

Take the safest route to your destination, and take your time.
Don’t use your smartphone while walking—it’s distracting.
Walk deliberately. Bend your knees a little and take slow, short steps. Doing so increases traction and lowers the odds of falling.
Wear boots or other slip-resistant footwear.
Wear traction aids when conditions warrant their use.
Watch for "black ice” or hard packed snow which can be just as slippery.
Use caution when getting in and out of vehicles, and use the vehicle for support.
Please use “Three Points of Contact” at all times!
When walking on steps or ramps, always use the hand railings and plant your feet firmly on each step.
When entering a building, remove as much snow from your boots as you can, and watch for wet and slippery floors.

Safety, it’s a full time job…don’t make it a part time practice

CVSA's Operation Safe Driver Week

John Cole — Fri, 14 Oct 2016 19:00:00 GMT

CVSA's Operation Safe Driver Week coming up Oct. 16-22

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s Operation Safe Driver Week will begin this Sunday on Oct. 16 and run through Saturday, Oct. 22.

The program is designed to combat unsafe driving behaviors by both commercial motor vehicle and passenger vehicle drivers.

Law enforcement will amplify traffic safety enforcement and education during Safe Driver Week.

Throughout North America, law enforcement will be on the lookout for speeding, failure to use a seat belt while operating a commercial vehicle or passenger vehicle, distracted driving, failure to obey traffic control devices, traveling too closely, improper lane change, and other unsafe driving conduct.

Last year, more than 21,000 commercial and passenger vehicle drivers were pulled over during Operation Safe Driver Week. More than 19,000 roadside inspections were conducted on commercial drivers and vehicles. Passenger vehicle drivers were found to speed significantly more than commercial drivers.

The top five warnings and citations issued to commercial drivers in 2015 were:

Size and weight
Speeding
Failure to use a seat belt while operating vehicle
Failure to obey traffic control device
Using a hand-held phone

For more information about Operation Safe Driver Week, CVSA encourages drivers to reach out to the agency or department responsible for commercial motor vehicle safety within their jurisdiction. Drivers can visit CVSA.org (http://cvsa.org/) for a complete list of agency contacts and more information.

Safe Driving Habits

John Cole — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 21:00:00 GMT

Driving Habits Add Up - One Safe Mile at A Time!

Our driving habits are influenced by the way we think when we are behind the wheel. Up to ninety-five percent of motor vehicle accidents are caused by driver error. To be an accident-free driver you must always be aware of what is happening around you. Drive defensively by thinking and planning ahead so that you will see trouble before you are involved in it. Here are some Safe driving tips:

Keep your vehicle in good repair by making sure to do complete Pre-Trip Inspections.
Anytime you stop for a break, before resuming your trip, make sure you do a quick walk around to check for any problems…blown lights, air or fluid leaks, low or flat tires.
Drive defensively and always watch out for the other driver.
Keep your eyes moving at all times and check your mirrors often.
Keep a good Look Ahead Capacity – at least 12 seconds!
Keep at least a 6 second following distance. In poor driving conditions, increase your following distance even more!
Always use your turn signals to indicate your intentions to other drivers…even when exiting a parking lot.

Practice safe driving habits, one mile at a time to add up to "accident free" driving.

Safety, it’s a full time job…don’t make it a part time practice!

Brake Inspection Blitz Sep. 11–17

John Cole — Wed, 14 Sep 2016 14:00:00 GMT

Annual Brake inspection blitz set for September 11 – 17

Inspectors will be paying special attention to brake safety during the CVSA Brake Safety Week. Inspectors will be looking for "out of adjustment" brakes, brake system and "anti-lock" braking system violations.

Please make sure you are conducting a thorough Pre-Trip inspection while looking for out of adjustment brakes, loose or missing brake parts, air leaks, worn linings, and defective drums.

Also, please make sure the ABS indicator light is working properly!

Any defective or out of adjustment brakes will result in the vehicle being placed out-of-service!

During 2015’s brake inspection week, inspectors conducted 18,817 inspections and placed 2,321 trucks out-of-service.

An email was sent last week to all terminals with an attachment giving drivers the information on how to adjust all brakes without a wrench. If you don’t know how to adjust your brakes, and didn’t receive a copy of the instructions, please ask your supervisor or Terminal Manager for a copy.

Holiday Travel Tips

John Cole — Wed, 29 Jun 2016 13:30:00 GMT

Projections are that over 41 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this holiday weekend. That's a 2% increase from last year. Fuel prices have risen, but are still low compared to previous years. Due to the lower fuel prices the majority of travelers are hitting the road, with more 35 million driving. That is a lot of extra traffic on the roads starting the week of July 4th.

Some holiday travel tips:

A safe trip begins with a thorough Pre-Trip Inspection!
Always be sure to buckle up!
Watch for speeding drivers that will take chances to be the leader of the pack!
Watch for inattentive drivers that are paying more attention to their cell phone than the road.
Keep an eye on sudden weather changes that can cause dangerous driving conditions.
Watch for distracted or fatigued drivers!
Watch for drivers that will cruise right beside you for miles. Always check your mirrors and clear the lane before you change lanes
Keep a safe 6 second following distance. You never know when a tourist might slam on their brakes due to missing a turn or an exit.
Be cautious through construction zones…never speed and be attentive to what is going on around you.
Always communicate your intentions by using your signals.
Never drive fatigued. Stop and take a power nap or get out and walk around.

The holidays are a challenging time on the highways. The increased amount of traffic and drivers not practicing safe driving habits will mean we must pay even more attention to our surroundings! We must rely on patience and safe driving practices to keep us and those sharing the road with us safe.

Safety, it’s a full time job, please don’t make it a part time practice!

Don't fall for it!

John Cole — Wed, 12 Nov 2014 21:30:00 GMT

Slips, trips and falls are frequent causes of injury for drivers. Over half of all slips and falls occur on or near the tractor or while drivers enter and exit their tractors and trailers. In addition, slips and falls occur while hooking up the trailer or securing the load.

Slips, trips and falls are also common on loading docks, where drivers in multi-stop and pick-up and delivery work are at the greatest risk. No matter where they occur, slips, trips and falls can be very painful and costly. Resulting injuries may include cuts, bruises, muscle sprains and strains, broken bones and back injuries, and may even result in death.

When exiting the cab, always face the truck and take your time while stepping down to the ground. When entering and exiting the cab, climbing up or down between the power unit and trailer, or when climbing in or out of the trailer, ALWAYS use three points of contact.

When snow or ice is present please use the traction aids PPE provided by FirstFleet. Easy to slip on or off your shoes these devices are excellent at keeping you on your feet and off your back! Please make sure you have a pair of traction aids before you find yourself needing them. When surface conditions are snowy or icy the use of the traction aids is mandatory. If you don’t have a pair, please contact your Fleet Manager.

It is our goal that all drivers return home injury free after every trip!

Roadcheck 2014

John Cole — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 16:25:00 GMT

Roadcheck 2014 is slated this year for June 3-5. Roadcheck is the largest, targeted commercial vehicle enforcement program in the world. During its 72-hours, an estimated 14 commercial vehicles will be inspected every minute from Canada to Mexico! During Roadcheck 2013, over 73,000 inspections were conducted by an estimated 10,000 CVSA-certified local, state, provincial, and federal inspectors at 2,000+ locations across North America.

How can you do well this year during Roadcheck 2014? First and foremost, making sure you do a great Pre-Trip Inspection is one of the best ways you can prevent any unexpected issues. Applying air pressure to your trailer and listening for air leaks during your Pre-Trip is a start. Actually getting under the trailer and checking for chafing air lines, brakes that are out of adjustment, and broken or cracked springs. Looking for signs of rust (which usually means something is loose). Checking both low and high beams on your head lights can make a difference.

This is a time when you really need to “sweat the small stuff” to make sure you and your vehicle are in compliance with the rules and regulations because you can bet the DOT will be making sure!

And please remember, be nice…the enforcement officers are doing a job too, and a few kind words along with a great attitude and smile can go a long way towards making their day and yours.

If you have any questions or concerns please reach out to your Fleet Manager or Safety Team.

Preventing Slips, Trips & Falls

John Cole — Fri, 27 Dec 2013 21:00:00 GMT

As the temperature drops, the number of slips and falls rise!

The effect weather has on workplace accidents and injuries cannot be overstated. Wind, rain, snow, and ice all play a part in increasing the frequency of several types of accidents and injuries. Snow and ice raise special safety concerns because they increase the likelihood of slips and falls, particularly on stairs, ramps, slopes, and parking lots

Accident studies indicate that almost 80 percent of slips and falls due to snow and ice occur in parking lots or on sidewalks. More than 50 percent occur in the morning between 6:00 a.m. and noon.

Proper footwear, including traction aids, can help tremendously on slippery surfaces. The purpose of this video (below) is to help keep you “slip-and-fall-free” this winter. If you are not able to review the video below click here to watch it on our YouTube channel.

If you have any questions or comments that you would like directed to our Safety Team please reach out to us at any time.

Winter Driving

John Cole — Mon, 02 Dec 2013 22:00:00 GMT

It’s that time of year again! Driving a commercial vehicle during the often extreme driving conditions of winter presents many challenges for our drivers. Many serious crashes occur during winter driving months because drivers have not planned ahead! Good planning and a few simple good habits can protect you and those that share the road with you during the winter months ahead.

When planning your trip you must make sure you are well rested before you depart. Knowing how to drive during extreme conditions doesn’t do you any good if you keep nodding off behind the wheel. Your alertness is crucial in crash prevention during adverse driving conditions!
Pre-Trip your vehicle to make sure it is road worthy.
Protect yourself by wearing your seatbelt at all times.
Make your vehicle more visible by driving with your headlights on.
Do not use your engine brake or cruise control on snow/ice covered roads.
Reducing your speed and increasing your following distance is an excellent way of being able to avoid a crash. Watch for “Black Ice” on the road. A good indicator the road is icy instead of wet is when vehicles are no longer creating spray from their tires!
Keep your eyes moving! Advance warning from other vehicles (brake lights) can help prevent a crash. Keeping your eyes moving will also help you stay more alert and will prevent fatigue!
Keep a good look-ahead capacity…knowing in advance what is happening in front of you will help you avoid an accident.
Avoid talking on the cell phone. Also, no hand held operations of the cell phone (texting,browsing, etc.).
Always remember to be patient while on the road and especially when road conditions deteriorate. If road conditions deteriorate, you might want to consider stopping until the conditions improve.
Be sure to call in and keep dispatch informed.

Take your time, pay attention, and be patient while dealing with adverse driving conditions. We want you to return to your family safe and sound!

Making Turns Safely

John Cole — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 05:27:00 GMT

Making turns in a tractor trailer is something that needs perfecting through practice and patience.

Practice comes from doing it…the daily honing of critical skills necessary for the job.

Patience comes from the knowledge that you are capable of handling any situation the road throws at you, in a professional and courteous manner, because you have fine-tuned those critical skills needed to drive a tractor trailer safely.

In this video we will touch on different issues of making a turn with information that could prevent being involved in a turning crash or be the cause of a turning crash.

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about this procedure or any other items please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

Backing Safely

John Cole — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 14:00:00 GMT

As delivery drivers, backing is something we must do every day.

Almost all backing accidents are preventable!

GOAL…Get Out And Look, is the best way to prevent a backing accident.

In this video we talk about different job duties drivers fail to do that will result in a backing accident.

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about this procedure or any other items please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

Recognize Fatigue

John Cole — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 14:00:00 GMT

A large part of Fatigue is Drowsiness, which is the last step before falling asleep…not the first. Drowsiness means you are seconds away from falling asleep; you must put forth a conscious effort to remain focused and stay awake. At one moment you are aware of the fatigue and in a split second you are sound asleep, completely unaware of what your vehicle is doing. This is an incredibly dangerous situation! Fatigue can be responsible for all different kinds of accidents…from hitting a yellow pole in a parking lot to a rollover accident due to falling asleep and leaving the roadway!

In this video we are asking our drivers how they recognize fatigue and how they deal with fatigue in order to remain a safe driver while on the road.

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about this procedure or any other items please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

Winter Driving - Tire Chaining

John Cole — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 17:00:00 GMT

Winter often means snow-covered and icy roads. Experienced truckers know that the lighter the load, the less traction the tires have. Even trucks hauling heavy loads can lose traction in snow and ice. One of the most important things about driving a commercial motor vehicle during adverse weather conditions is to maintain vehicle traction. Ice, snow, and high winds all work towards reducing traction as well as visibility.

Tire chains are one of the best tools to help maintain traction when the road surfaces are covered in winter precipitation. In this video we will show you how to install tire chains on your commercial vehicle. Extreme conditions are not the best time to learn how to install tire chains, so inspect them and practice installing prior to needing to actually use them!

Please remember, even though you might have great traction and the experience to drive in less-than-perfect road conditions, the other driver might not!

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about this procedure or any other items please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

Winter Driving Awareness

John Cole — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Winter is just around the corner and with that being said comes challenges in all aspects of our job duties. The long days will be drawing to an end resulting in shorter days and longer nights. Warm breezes will soon change to cold harsh winds. Gentle showers will change over to bitter snow or ice storms. Soon, just a short walk from the truck to the building could be a challenge in and of itself!

Each year, thousands of professional drivers are seriously injured due to not paying attention during winter conditions. Driving or even walking in ice and snow requires your full attention and awareness.

Remember, it is our primary goal that you go home to your family and friends the way you came to work; safe and healthy!

Please view our Winter Awareness Training and then print and complete the short quiz at the end of the training. Please submit the quiz to your Terminal Manager.

DOWNLOAD TRAINING HERE (CLICK)

Uncoupling Trailer Correctly

John Cole — Fri, 06 Jul 2012 20:53:00 GMT

Uncoupling the trailer is a relatively simple procedure, but if you perform this task wrong, the results could be very expensive. Damage to equipment, freight, and service issues for our customers could result. This video explains how to minimize risk by properly uncoupling the trailer.

Remember…

A little consideration for the next driver can go a long way.
You never know… you might be the “next” driver!

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about this procedure or any other items please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

Refrigeration Trailers – Proper Operation

John Cole — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Pulling a refrigeration unit while in use is a little different than pulling a dry van. In this video we will explain how the unit works, how to set the temperature, and a few other things you will need to watch for when pulling a reefer unit.

Learning about the reefer unit will allow you to efficiently use a refrigerated trailer without damage to the unit and without damage to the product you are hauling.

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about this procedure or any other items please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

Log Infraction Acknowledgement

John Cole — Fri, 15 Jun 2012 20:00:00 GMT

FirstFleet has been working very hard to create a way for drivers to acknowledge log infractions in a quick and easy manner. Starting today, we are proud to give you three different ways to do this.

You can now acknowledge log infractions using your QUALCOMM unit in your truck, by phone, or by logging into FirstFleet’s website from your phone or computer.

Please view this video to see how you can complete the log infraction acknowledgement easily and quickly. The goal of this project is to help streamline the communication between the safety team and the drivers we are working to support.

Proper Trailer Coupling

John Cole — Wed, 13 Jun 2012 02:00:00 GMT

Coupling a tractor and trailer is an essential skill for a driver. You can't imagine the feeling you will have if you look in the mirror and see the trailer slide off the fifth wheel!

As long as you follow the proper procedures, you can couple to a trailer safely every time.

Both visual and physical confirmations are necessary to ensure that the kingpin is coupled securely to the fifth wheel.

These dual safety measures take only seconds and can prevent a costly major accident.

Pre-Trip Inspection

John Cole — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 13:00:00 GMT

A Pre Trip Inspection is extremely important, so try not to take the attitude that you will just kick a few tires, check a few lights and head on down the road. A proper Pre-Trip involves a lot more!

Spotting potential problem areas ahead of time may save you a breakdown on the road…may save you a fine or citation due to an inspection…may save you time due to being put Out of Service…could possibly save someone’s life or even your life!

With that being said, we also have to remember DOT regulations require a driver to conduct a pre-trip inspection at the start of each trip…no matter what time of day or night you start your trip!

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about this procedure or any other items please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

Injury Prevention - Opening Swing Door

John Cole — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Opening swing doors should be a relatively simple procedure and usually is. What we need to remember is that from point A to point B…freight sometimes moves. Most of the time falling freight isn’t an issue and is an easy fix. Other times, it could actually cause serious injury or even death. This video covers knowing how to properly and safely open swing doors. Doing so is our initial defense against injury or even death!

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about this procedure or any other items please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

Injury Prevention - Proper Right Turn

John Cole — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Laws and regulations are in place for a purpose – to prevent crashes which could result in injury or death. In this video, we raise awareness to making sure we don’t take short-cuts when making right turns onto four-lane highways.
To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about this procedure or any other items please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

Injury Prevention - Dock Safety

John Cole — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Following strict guidelines when pulling away from the dock will ensure no one will be injured due to miscommunication or a mistake. These accidents happen when the forklift is backing out of or into the trailer. This could result in serious injuries or even death! You, the driver, are responsible for the safety of anyone loading or unloading your trailer. Don’t pull away from the dock until you are absolutely positive it is safe to do so.

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about this procedure or any other items please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

Injury Prevention - Falling Freight

John Cole — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 13:00:00 GMT

Falling Freight causes many injuries per year in the trucking industry. Raising awareness to just a few simple bad habits can prevent drivers being injured when assisting in the unloading process. Paying attention is first on the list of good habits when unloading freight!

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about this procedure or any other items please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

Injury Prevention - Cranking Landing Gear

John Cole — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 18:45:00 GMT

Drivers have many different tasks to complete each day… some of which, if not performed correctly, could cause injury. Depending on how a trailer is dropped, tremendous pressure can be applied to the landing gear when hooking up. This video concentrates on how to prevent injuries while cranking up the landing gear on the trailer.

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about this procedure or any other items please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

Injury Prevention - Opening Roll-Up Doors

John Cole — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 22:41:00 GMT

This video raises awareness on the importance of making sure you are not injured by falling freight when opening a roll-up door on the trailer. Taking your time to make sure the freight is secure before you open the door completely is the key to preventing injuries.

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about this procedure or any other items please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

MPG Tips - Ayris & Swan

John Cole — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 15:00:00 GMT

The cost of fuel, and the use of it, can make or break a trucking company.

Although drivers can’t do anything about the cost of fuel, drivers choices on how they drive can have a big impact on bottom-line fuel economy.

We are creating videos and PowerPoints at different locations with drivers who have demonstrated a strong drive to squeeze every mile possible from a gallon of fuel resulting in exceptional fuel economy. We are asking them to share their tips in achieving more miles per gallon on every trip.

In these PowerPoints, we are talking with Allan Ayris and Jeff Swan, drivers for our Tampa, FL facility. They are both sharing their tips on how they get great fuel economy. Currently Allan is at 7.5 mpg and Jeff is at 7.9 mpg. With these kinds of numbers for miles per gallon economy, both drivers enjoy a fuel bonus for every mile traveled!

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about fuel economy please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

MPG Tips - Jesse Wisener

John Cole — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 14:00:00 GMT

We are constantly searching for ways to raise Fuel Economy Awareness with our drivers.

Currently, we are creating Videos and PowerPoints at different locations with drivers who have demonstrated a strong drive to squeeze every mile possible from a gallon of fuel...resulting in exceptional fuel economy.

We are asking them to share their tips in achieving more miles per gallon on every trip.

This video presentation is of Jesse Wisener, FirstFleet driver from our Portland, TN location, giving detailed tips on how he works hard at achieving great Fuel Economy.

Jesse is currently at 7.84 mpg!

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

To help everyone keep better tabs on fuel performance we have created a Fuel Economy Dashboard that is visible each time you login to our site to retrieve load information, pay history or any of the other resources found at www.firstfleetinc.com. A quick video tutorial of the Fuel Economy Dashboard can be found here.

If you have questions or comments about fuel economy please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

MPG Tips - Driver Greg Basham

John Cole — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 14:00:00 GMT

In this video, we are talking with Greg Basham, a driver for our Portland, TN facility. Greg's mpg is currently at 7.87. Greg understands the importance of getting good fuel economy and works hard to keep his MPG average high. He understands that getting good fuel economy helps FirstFleet by lowering their fuel bill, and he also realizes that working hard to get great fuel economy is also a big plus to him because of the extra 2 cents per mile fuel bonus he receives every quarter.

MPG Tips - Driver Keith Collins

John Cole — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 23:00:00 GMT

The cost of fuel, and the use of it, can make or break a trucking company.

Although drivers can’t do anything about the cost of fuel, drivers choices on how they drive can have a big impact on bottom-line fuel economy.

We are creating videos at different locations with drivers who have demonstrated a strong drive to squeeze every mile possible from a gallon of fuel resulting in exceptional fuel economy. We are asking them to share their tips in achieving more miles per gallon on every trip.

In this video, we are talking with Keith Collins, a driver for our Cleveland, TN facility, domiciled in Jackson, MS. Currently Keith has our best MPG average in Cleveland at 7.57 miles per gallon!

To watch this video and more have a look at our YouTube channel or the Employee Video library found here on our website (login required).

If you have questions or comments about fuel economy please feel free to use the comment options below or use this form to reach out to us.

Preventing Cargo Theft

John Cole — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Cargo theft is a serious problem for our industry. In this time of new technology, people can interact online with hundreds or even thousands of people with nothing more than a smart phone and internet access. With that being said, we must watch what we say or post while surfing various social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, YouTube, and other blogs.

You can protect your freight, yourself, and other FirstFleet drivers through proper planning and by following some simple guidelines.

Always lock tractor doors.
Keep tractor windows rolled up until you are on the open road.
Don’t talk about your load on the CB - cargo thieves listen.
Don’t post pictures or descriptions about the load you are hauling on the internet.
Don’t post any information about your company, your regular routes, or pictures of your truck.
When stopped to load, don’t post any information of what you are picking up, your location, or where your load is to be delivered.
When possible, go directly to your delivery point without stopping.
Park in crowds and only at reputable truck stops.
Don’t stop on dark freeways or in deserted areas.
Avoid taking your load home.
Be especially alert after picking up a load. Most hijacking occurs within a few miles of the pickup point. On and off-ramps are particularly dangerous

For your convenience a printable version of these points can be found here.

FirstFleet, Inc.

Don't Get Burned by Roadcheck 2021

This year's Roadcheck 2021 enforcement emphasis begins Tues, May 4 and ends Thurs, May 6. This year's special emphasis is on lighting and hours of service.

Thanksgiving Holiday Travel

RoadCheck 2018

RoadCheck 2018

Operation Safe Driver Week, October 15-21

Brake Safety Day: September 7, 2017

Drivers be aware!

CVSA Roadcheck 2017

CVSA Roadcheck 2017

CVSA Roadcheck 2017

CVSA Roadcheck 2017

Slip & Fall Prevention

CVSA's Operation Safe Driver Week

Safe Driving Habits

Brake Inspection Blitz Sep. 11–17

Holiday Travel Tips

Don't fall for it!

Roadcheck 2014

Preventing Slips, Trips & Falls

Winter Driving

Making Turns Safely

Backing Safely

Recognize Fatigue

Winter Driving - Tire Chaining

Winter Driving Awareness

Uncoupling Trailer Correctly

Refrigeration Trailers – Proper Operation

Log Infraction Acknowledgement

Proper Trailer Coupling

Pre-Trip Inspection

Injury Prevention - Opening Swing Door

Injury Prevention - Proper Right Turn

Injury Prevention - Dock Safety

Injury Prevention - Falling Freight

Injury Prevention - Cranking Landing Gear

Injury Prevention - Opening Roll-Up Doors

MPG Tips - Ayris & Swan

MPG Tips - Jesse Wisener

MPG Tips - Driver Greg Basham

MPG Tips - Driver Keith Collins

Preventing Cargo Theft

This year's Roadcheck 2021 enforcement emphasis begins Tues, May 4 and ends Thurs, May 6.

This year's special emphasis is on lighting and hours of service.