Fire Department Setback warning [RE-wrenches]

[Dan Brown]

Hey guys;
       I moonlight (volunteer) as a Firefighter (Level 1) / WEMT up here in 
the boonies. granted we don't see the traffic folks down country see, but seems 
to me modern fire fighting ventilation equipment would make dam short work of 
an array -- if it were in the way. Remember, these folks are trained to cut 
screaming kids out of flaming over horse'd SUVs (in minutes).  No, I see the 
problem as a lack of understanding -- of how PV systems work. I'd like to 
suggest that we train me fellow firefighters (for free) in the workings of PV 
systems in general.  Like the difference between grid tied and battery back up 
systems -- how roof mounting systems work.  the "oh shit switch" (gotta keep it in 
terms an 8th grader can handle), where should it be? what's it do -- what it 
doesn't do, or disconnects in general -- how to make your own in an emergency. 
( seems i was warned at one time that if i did need to make my own disconnect 
-- i.e. cut a batt. cable, that i should take out a one foot section, so that 
the ends don't reconnect -- they've probably already heard that one). also, 
try to keep in mind the tools they're likely to be using -- ax, haligan, maybe a 
thermal imaging camera -- and water.  maybe cover common  stuff their likely 
to see -- like safety stuff, and how it works, grounding, the idea of circuit 
continuity, or the conduit runs (composition) between the array and the 
switches etc. maybe suggest they carry up vice grips, or C clamps, to hold panels if 
they did have to loosen up a bottom or something. bet you'd find more 
interest than you bargained for. maybe even offer a discount for PV on fire houses 
(marketing 101?) . no, i don't see a PV array slowing me down much if i had to g
et into a roof system in a hurry.  might even be a safe place to stand. PV (as 
well as other new fangled envro friendly gadgetry) is here to stay. as 
firefighters, we're going to see more and more of it -- might as well get use to it. 
 respectfully. db

Dan Brown
President
Foxfire Energy Corp.
Renewable Energy Systems 
(802)-483-2564
www.Foxfire-Energy.com
NABCEP #092907-44


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