P-407 Vehicle Towing

Date of Issue: 1997/09/03
Revision Date: 1999/11/03

PURPOSE: 

To provide a policy to be used when towing of vehicles is required.

OBJECTIVE:

To ensure vehicles are properly towed when necessary. 

SCOPE:

This policy applies to career and volunteer fire fighters of HRFE. 

POLICY: 

When calling for a tow truck via Dispatch, personnel will indicate what type of tow truck is required, that is, for a Department Vehicle (pumper, tanker, etc.) or a private vehicle.

FIRE DEPARTMENT VEHICLES

The type of tow truck required will be specified, as determined by the type and gross vehicle weight of vehicle to be towed (pumper, utility, rescue, aerial, etc.).

In the case of pumpers or tankers, the water will be drained from the tank prior to being towed. Aerial units SHALL be towed flat.

The Motor Vehicle Act states that no vehicle will be towed on a public road unless a tow bar or a tow truck is used. No fire apparatuses are to be towed by other fire trucks on public roads.

PRIVATE MOTOR VEHICLES

The Department may call a tow truck at the request of a private vehicle owner. In that case, the following information must be given to the Dispatcher.

a)    That it is a private vehicle and the vehicle owner is requesting a tow truck.
b)    Make of vehicle.
c)    Owner’s preference of Tow Company, if any.

POLICY REVIEW:

This policy shall be reviewed when/if there are changes/amendments to the vehicle towing process.