What is a hazard associated with riding fire apparatus?

Unsecured equipment in the crew compartment presents a significant hazard when riding fire apparatus. During transport, especially under emergency conditions where abrupt maneuvers or rapid stops may occur, any unsecured gear can become a projectile. This poses a serious risk to crew safety, as items can strike passengers or interfere with the operation of the apparatus. Thus, it is critical for all equipment to be properly secured to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of firefighters during transit.

Excessive speed can also be a concern, but it is typically managed by departmental policies and training. Improper training is an important factor as well, but it relates more to overall operational safety rather than specifically to the hazard presented during transport. Low visibility is another important consideration, often addressed through operational protocols, but it is not as directly related to the immediate hazard posed by unsecured equipment.