Improper tire pressures on a fire apparatus may lead to which issue?

Improper tire pressures can significantly affect the handling of a fire apparatus. When tire pressures are too low, the contact patch with the road changes, leading to increased rolling resistance and a greater chance of losing traction. This can make the vehicle feel unstable, particularly during cornering or emergency maneuvers, ultimately impacting the ability to respond quickly and safely to incidents.

Conversely, if the tire pressure is too high, it can result in a smaller contact area with the road surface, reducing grip and increasing the likelihood of skidding or sliding. Both scenarios compromise the overall handling of the apparatus, making it difficult to control, especially in critical situations that demand precise driving skills.

Other options, while they may be affected indirectly by improper tire pressures, do not directly relate to the primary concern around vehicle handling. For example, poor visibility is typically linked to issues such as dirty windows or inadequate lighting rather than tire pressure. Engine overheating usually relates to cooling system failures or engine load rather than tire conditions. Bouncing during transport could be a symptom of suspension issues rather than solely tire pressure. Thus, the impact on handling stands out as the most immediate and critical issue associated with improper tire pressures on fire apparatus.