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In recent years, with the support of party committees and governments at all levels, a significant number of advanced, high-performance, and specialized equipment have been deployed to fire departments, significantly enhancing the level of equipment construction. However, as the number of firefighting and rescue missions increases, the wear and tear on equipment is accelerating. Timely and effective maintenance plays a crucial role in maintaining combat readiness and operational effectiveness. Drawing from personal experience in combat support, this article explores several key aspects of fire equipment maintenance.
**First, the current status of fire equipment maintenance**
1. **Diverse fire equipment, difficulty in sourcing spare parts**
For example, the Shizuishan detachment has over 40 types of fire vehicles, sourced from 11 suppliers, and more than 20 different equipment providers. The market for spare parts is highly fragmented, with similar-looking components but significant price differences and inconsistent quality. When equipment breaks down, there are often no professional repair stations available. In many cases, repairs are handled either by the unit itself or through the manufacturer. However, when sending vehicles for repair, the cost of auto parts can vary greatly depending on the region, leading to issues like "price gouging." Additionally, after equipment is damaged, it may take days or even weeks to get parts from distant manufacturers, affecting readiness. In 2012, one of the squadrons' high-reach fire trucks broke down, and due to lack of local support, it took six months to get it back in service after being sent to the factory.
2. **Some suppliers fail to provide proper after-sales service**
Most distributors and manufacturers operate independently, which creates challenges for frontline maintenance. Fire engine maintenance often involves separate production and installation, resulting in multiple after-sales service providers. When a vehicle fails, units may face disputes with dealers, who often shift blame and increase costs. Some suppliers even refuse to handle repairs directly, forcing users to contact third-party services, which further delays resolution. Contracts are usually signed with a single dealer, so any change in after-sales service can severely impact operational performance.
3. **High cost of spare parts and long maintenance cycles**
Equipment labeled as "firefighting" often comes with inflated prices, especially if it's imported. Despite market competition, many grassroots units in remote areas still find these prices unaffordable. Spare parts are typically priced unilaterally by suppliers, with no transparency or room for negotiation. For instance, a squadron’s hand-held rebar cutter battery was quoted at 3,500 RMB, while the entire unit cost only about 5,000 RMB. This equipment is imported and can only be purchased through authorized dealers. Another example is a radar life detector charger that could not be repaired due to the lack of accessible parts, causing long-term downtime.
4. **Inadequate training and maintenance practices**
Many squads lack proper training and maintenance procedures. Routine inspections often miss early signs of failure, such as unusual sounds, vibrations, or temperature changes. Maintenance is frequently performed without following established protocols. For example, positive pressure air respirators are often checked only for cylinder pressure, without inspecting valves or masks. Additionally, some protective gear, like chemical suits or insulation suits, is improperly stored, reducing their lifespan or effectiveness. Misuse by personnel also leads to avoidable damage.
5. **Rapid turnover of equipment technicians**
Due to short military service terms, it takes time to train skilled technicians. Many experienced personnel leave before they can fully master the equipment, leading to a shortage of qualified staff. Existing technicians often rely on traditional methods, lacking data-driven approaches to predict equipment failure. This is particularly challenging for imported equipment, where maintenance knowledge is limited.
**Second, improving fire equipment maintenance methods**
In modern firefighting and emergency response, reliance on equipment is greater than ever. Ensuring accurate, timely, and efficient equipment support is critical to mission success.
1. **Daily maintenance**
Regular maintenance is essential to prevent failures and extend equipment lifespan. Scheduled checks help identify potential issues before they escalate, ensuring optimal performance.
2. **Emergency maintenance**
During incidents, quick repairs are necessary to restore functionality. While temporary fixes may be applied, full restoration should follow standard procedures once the mission is complete.
3. **Establish a comprehensive maintenance system**
A three-tiered maintenance network should be created, involving the corps, detachments, and brigades. Each level has specific responsibilities, from setting up regional maintenance centers to conducting daily inspections.
4. **Implement a preventive maintenance system**
A database tracking equipment details, usage, and maintenance history would improve efficiency. Technical manuals and training materials should be provided to ensure proper use and care.
5. **Develop emergency response plans**
Emergency maintenance teams must be ready to respond quickly, equipped with necessary tools and manuals. Communication between units and manufacturers should be improved to address issues promptly.
6. **Train and retain professionals**
Efforts should be made to recruit, train, and retain skilled technicians. A reward and punishment system will encourage better performance and reduce turnover.
7. **Leverage social resources**
Manufacturers should provide multimedia training materials and spare parts in advance. Clear communication channels between units and dealers will help resolve issues faster. Including feedback forms in equipment packaging allows users to report problems directly to manufacturers.
In conclusion, effective fire equipment maintenance is vital for ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of fire departments. This article reflects the author's firsthand experiences and insights, aiming to spark discussion and improvement in the field.