This section applies to wildland fire apparatus meeting the NIMS ICS typing of a Type 3 through Type 7 engine, and intended for use combating fires occurring in natural vegetation or occurring in natural vegetation and threatening improvements.

(1) In a wildland fire, an engine may provide the primary protection for a crew in the event of unexpected fire behavior or an action that places the engine crew in a position of being exposed to heat and smoke.

(2) Apparatus speed must be determined to be safe if in the judgment of the officer in charge, the following are taken into consideration:

(a) The particular wildland fire attack methods being utilized including, but not limited to, the nature of the fire, the type of terrain, weather conditions, equipment conditions, and whether personnel are positioned in wildland firefighting enclosures;

(b) The forgoing provision does not relieve a driver from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons in all conditions;

(c) Nor does such provision protect the driver from the consequences of their reckless disregard for the safety of others.

(3) Because of the sheltering offered by an engine, the following minimum standards must be complied with:

(a) The number of individuals working/assigned as an engine crew must not exceed the manufacturer's cab capacity.

(b) Any time an engine is moved when not directly attacking a fire, personnel must ride in the vehicle's enclosed cabin area, in a seat-belted location, or be off the vehicle.

(c) Any time engines are used in a mobile attack configuration, and personnel other than the driver are on the apparatus, personnel must ride in the manufacturer's enclosed cabin, or use the personnel restraints and enclosures identified in WAC 296-305-07018.

(d) All personnel working on or around engines in a ground mobile attack mode or in riding positions must have visual or voice contact with the driver.

(e) Vehicles operating in smoke or dust must have their headlights, and if so equipped, a flashing or rotating roof light illuminated.