Runaway Engine FLA 2013

On August 5, 2013 at 1419 hours a strike team of engines was driving downhill on Hwy 168 after departing the Aspen incident on the Sierra National Forest. The caravan of vehicles consisted of the Strike Team Leader (STEN) trainee and a firefighter driving a utility vehicle in the front, followed by a Ford Expedition driven by the STEN, and then five Type 3 engines. The lead engine was equipped with a manual transmission with two-speed differential. The lead engine was being driven by the Assistant Fire Engine Operator (AFEO). Upon entering the four lane area, the AFEO began to downshift, and when applying the brakes, he then noticed that the brakes were not working nor were the dashboard gauges. The engine began to pick up speed. Gears were not engaging as the AFEO attempted to downshift to slow the vehicle. The Fire Engine Operator (FEO) notified the STEN of the situation radio. The STEN began to slow his vehicle allowing the engine to creep up to it until contact was made he began to apply his brakes gently. The STEN successfully stops the runaway engine with no injuries.