Firefighter Phil Wanderman Completes Tanker 4 Driver Training

The Vista Fire Department is proud to announce that Firefighter Phil Wanderman is now qualified to drive Tanker 4.

Firefighter Wanderman successfully completed the VFD’s Tanker 4 Driver Training Program, which currently requires a minimum of 12 hours of total driving time and a minimum of 6 hours of total pump time. The training also requires members to demonstrate competency pumping 200 feet of 1¾-inch and 2½-inch hoseline, participate in at least two tanker shuttle drills, properly fill Tanker 4 through both the rear and side intakes, operate the inside and outside side-dump controls, and participate in at least one weekly truck report.

Throughout the program, trainees are evaluated on both vehicle operation and the apparatus-specific skills required to safely and effectively operate Tanker 4 during emergency incidents. Tanker operations are especially important within our area, where the apparatus plays a critical role in transporting and supplying water during fires in locations without an adequate municipal hydrant system.

Tanker 4 is the final apparatus in the Vista Fire Department’s current Driver Training progression. With this milestone achieved, Firefighter Wanderman has successfully completed another significant step in his continued training and service to the Department.

The Vista Fire Department proudly congratulates Firefighter Phil Wanderman on completing the Tanker 4 Driver Training Program!

The VFD is always looking for more drivers—whether it's for our fire apparatus or our ambulances! Interested in joining? Learn more here: https://www.vistafd.org/content/become/ or apply online at https://www.vistafd.org/apply