Showing posts with label Truck. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Truck. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Smokey the Fire Truck Review-2011 Hot Christmas Toy

Mattel has been a leader in creating big toys for little kids with big imaginations and two such toys are Rocky the Robot Truck and Stinky the Garbage Truck. In addition to this growing family, Matchbox came out with Smokey the Fire Truck as their latest release for little boys looking to get a big truck that can transform into a canon-shooting machine.

Matchbox Smokey The Fire Truck isn't your regular toy fire truck with limited features and movements. This fire truck can do a lot of things to entertain your child and in addition, it can also be assembled into a fire truck robot.

Matchbox Smokey the Fire Truck is the third member to join Rocky the Robot Truck and Stinky the Garbage Truck in Mattel's Big Rig Buddies toys. And just like its predecessors, it features a wide array of tricks that would surely entertain a child. Some of the features of Smokey the Fire Truck is that it has all the complete features a fire truck should have such as hoses, ladders, and even a canon that can be loaded up with balls.

One of the most surprising features of Smokey the Fire Truck is that it can actually talk. Don't be fooled by Smokey's strong exterior, which looks just like the exterior of a regular fire truck. Its windshield is actually its eyes, its front grill is its nose, and the bumper is its mouth, which moves and crinkles as it talks. In addition, it also has six big wheels and it can easily be transformed to stand on just four wheels instead to make it a full-fledged cannonball machine.

The real entertainment value of Smokey the Fire Truck lies in its ability to sing, talk, and even dance. Now that's a first for a fire truck. And the best part is its highly sensitive to the child's movements as well. If Smokey the Fire Truck is to be turned over by a child, it will automatically produce shout-out phrases and it will also move its two wheels, which act as its two arms.

Once Smokey the Fire Truck is standing on its four wheels only, it can then start singing and dancing as well. It has a selection of four different songs, which Smokey the Fire Truck sings and dances to in random while moving its two front wheels.

Smokey the Fire Truck does not produce real water, however, it can shoot out water cannons that can be loaded onto its built-in cannonball machine. Smokey will signal your child by saying he's thirsty-that's the cue to load the water cannonballs one at a time before he shoots it out.

Customer Reviews

Parents and children alike are very satisfied with Smokey's performance. One parent even commented that she actually found Smokey's jokes very funny as well and she was just as amazed as her child was with Smokey's features, mainly the fact that it can sing and dance and is equipped with sensors that respond to her child's movements.

Pros:
- Smokey the Fire Truck is more than your average toy fire truck because it can produce lights and sounds.
- Smokey the Fire Truck is truly worth your money because of its high entertainment value-it can sing, dance, exercise, and talk.
- Its interactive features engage a child and help develop your child's speaking and motor skills as well.
- Smokey the Fire Truck can be transformed into a standing position by making it stand on its four wheels instead of the original six, with its other two wheels functioning as its arms.
- Smokey the Fire Truck has sensory features and automatically produces sounds and phrases based on what your child is doing with it such as movement sensors in its tires, which will come to life once it senses your child is near.
- Smokey the Fire Truck already comes with three cannonballs for your child to play with.
- Smokey the Fire Truck also has a sleep mode and it can also produce snoring sounds.
- All lights, movements, and sounds are produced by easy push and play buttons and levers.
- Smokey the Fire Truck can produce over 90 different phrases and sounds including funny and silly jokes to entertain you and your child

Cons:
- Smokey the Fire Truck cannot produce real water.
- If you're looking for a remote-controlled fire truck, Smokey is not for you.
- Smokey the Fire Truck may be too big or heavy for little children

If you're looking for an interactive toy truck for your child then Smokey the Fire Truck is your best bet. You child will be entertained and might just learn a thing or two as well. Smokey the Fire Truck is your all in one toy fire truck and for under , it's the best Christmas gift to give to your child.

Get Smokey the Fire Truck for 17% off on our website at 2011 Hot Christmas toys

Get Smokey the Fire Truck for 17% off on our website at

Friday, October 26, 2012

Vac Truck Safety Includes Job Site Control

Every heavy-duty vehicle should be carefully operated in order to ensure that safety can and will be given a top priority. When working with vacuum trucks, it is likewise true that the operation of this massive extraction machine must be carefully and skillfully handled to make every job operation as safe as it can be.

While proper training on the use of these vehicles is of high importance, it is also necessary that the entire job site be carefully monitored and controlled as well. Such action could involve anything from being sure that bystanders do not get too close to the work area to how well the vacuum truck equipment is used when in operation. Preventing accidents, injury, and any other problems including damage to the equipment is dependent upon having a level head and good control of the work site.

Practice Correct Equipment Use

It is important that everyone involved in the vacuum truck operation understand a few important yet basic aspects about the safe and correct use of this massive vehicle. The truck itself should be positioned so that there is as straight a line as possible from the vehicle to the work site with as few bends as possible. A straight line from the pump site to the truck is optimal as it allows for the least amount of friction and obstructions, thereby reducing the chance of clogs occurring in the hose line.

Use hoses that have the largest possible diameter as that will help to increase job efficiency; be sure that the end of the hose is properly clamped to the vacuum intake. All hoses being used should be of the same diameter; also be sure that a safety relief valve has been installed along the line. In taking these important steps, fewer problems getting the job done should be encountered.

Protect Operators and Bystanders

When working with vacuum trucks and even when a job seems completely safe and easy, it is vital to follow all established operational rules and guidelines especially regarding the safety of anyone else around the job site. This may require having another worker handle traffic control if working on a traveled street or simply keeping homeowners away from the job site when working in residential areas.

Set up signs or cones if necessary so that oncoming traffic is alerted that work is occurring; a second worker should be posted to watch for anyone coming near the truck or pumping area. Section off as large of an area as possible around the work site to create a buffer zone to prevent any vehicles or bystanders from getting too close, which can be a lifesaving option for both workers and the public.

Make Safety a Top Priority

Even though it may seem as if using a vacuum truck is a fairly safe job with accidents an unlikely occurrence, not focusing on the entire job operation can cause accidents and injury to both workers and others who may be in close vicinity of the work site. Following all safety procedures in regard to truck positioning, equipment set up, and other safety factors is essential and should never be taken for granted. Correct procedures while actually performing the job as to proper equipment use as well as wearing all protective gear is important to prevent injury to those performing the actual job operation. It is also essential to have a plan of action in case any problems should arise, whether with the equipment, workers, or bystanders.

The best fleet crews are those who know the job well and always stay safe during the procedure. Companies should provide refresher courses for all workers on updated safety measures, the correct use of vacuum truck equipment, and all other means of keeping every job site under excellent control!

Sunday, July 22, 2012

Important Insulated Bucket Truck Safety Facts!

Bucket trucks are very versatile pieces of equipment that have become important utility vehicles on the modern construction job-site. The bucket that is attached to the boom is the mechanism that enables a worker to perform many aerial tasks. Along with its usefulness, there are many hazards associated with the entire boom apparatus. Electrocution is one of those hazards and has become the primary cause of injuries and even fatalities.

Insulation Facts

Owning an insulated bucket truck does not necessarily make the operator immune from electrocution. Just like any other piece of equipment, these vehicles' parts contain metal which is a strong conductor of electricity. Even with an insulated boom, there are parts that do not provide any insulation. For example, these vehicles may have a band of arrows to indicate the point at which the insulated part of the upper boom ends.

In addition, covers and guards that are installed do not fully guarantee protection from electrocution in cases of power line contact, so it is better to take extra precautions and not rely solely on the insulation that is part of the vehicle.

Non-Utility Usage

There are quite a few non-utility company operators who routinely use bucket trucks for aerial tasks that place them close to live utility lines. Their job may be to put up holiday lights, trim trees, paint buildings and other high structural maintenance work. Awareness about the dangers of working near live power lines is necessary for such workers.

It is highly recommended that non-utility company operators know and practice safety standards for such tasks; they should be aware of the risks of working near live power lines. The following are recommended safety procedures for non-utility company bucket truck operators to perform prior to beginning any aerial work.


* Check for No Ground Path - Be sure to check that the equipment is free from any ground paths, especially with the insulated bucket of the truck. Always remember not to rely completely on the insulated protection provided with the vehicle.
* Tool Job Ratings - Check all electrical tools and equipment to make sure that they have the correct job ratings.
* Check Insulation Barriers - Make sure that all insulation barriers and other equipment subject to wear-and-tear are checked routinely. Never use any tools or equipment that are dirty, wet or with deteriorated insulation.
* De-energize Power Lines - For aerial tasks that will be performed near power lines, ask the utility company to de-energize the lines or install additional protective insulation for the duration of the task.

When the work has begun, following are some important things to remember:


* Do Not Touch Any Line - Operators should treat all wires and utility cables as if they are energized and should not attempt to touch them.
* Keep Safe Clearance - Make sure that there is adequate clearance between the equipment and the bucket of the truck and all electrical wires. It is recommended to keep at least ten feet away.
* Wear Protective Gear Always - All operators should wear approved protective gear when performing jobs that are electrical in nature, for example, putting up decorative lights.
* Don't Use Tools Near Lines - If the operator needs to use a tool that extends away from the bucket, be sure that the truck is positioned further than the length of the tool from any electrical wires.

For all operators, safety should be the first concern. All workers should be familiar with the equipment and be well informed about the work site where the jobs will be performed. A comprehensive bucket truck training and certification program is very important to preserve life and property; it should be the goal of every operator to complete a training and certification program. Should any uncertainties arise during operations, it is better to seek help from professionals and thereby prevent injury or loss of life. Insulated bucket truck safety facts are the most important thing a worker can learn before operating this heavy duty equipment!

Saturday, June 2, 2012

Demand In Box Truck And Straight Truck Trailers

For many drivers, working for a company may not be enough, and they always keep thinking of going ahead with a freight business of their own. However, these want-to-become owner-operators get discouraged when the face the reality about their financial potential. Giving recognition to such demands, many trucking companies have incorporated lease options, lease purchase and drive to own options for drivers who are not in a situation to fulfill their dreams through conventional financing modes.

The question arising here is whether leasing a truck would be able to bring you financial gain? The answer to this question mainly depends on your own conditions and the perspective you look from.

From the perspective of the truck driver, leasing a truck is the perfect option for them when they are not able to pay a hefty down payment and related start-up costs. Most carriers have come out with leasing opportunities for enterprising drivers, and thousands of drivers have been attracted by such offers. Although the terms vary from one carrier to another, but most of them claim benefits for drivers in a number ways, including low deposits, low down payments, sometimes there are no down payments, no long-term contracts, pride of ownership, chance to drive higher specifications equipment, incentives on completion of lease and convenient credit standards. This allows lease operators to enjoy the taste of ownership without involving high financial risks. Most of the carriers market their leases as walk-away' leases, which mean that drivers can walk out of the lease in case the set-up does not work for some reason.

Some of the drivers have experienced truck leasing as a financial loss. Contrary to their expectations of fulfilling their dreams, these drivers have come to experience limitations and malpractices on the part of carriers, like low mileage, baseless deductions and complicated lease contracts drafted to benefit the carriers. Sometimes, the carriers tend turn the advantage of truck leasing completely in their favor. In such cases the drivers end up owing more to the carriers than they have been able to earn from their driving. Some of the main complaints recorded by drivers about their leasing carriers include large payments, over-charging for fuel taxes, inflated insurance fees, huge deposits, repair accounts and carrier-dictated repairs with rates decided by the carrier.

In addition to these complaints, drivers also charge that the method to clear repair and tire reimbursements is mostly not mentioned in the lease agreement, and sometimes the carriers make it almost impossible for the drivers to get these funds by fixing very high limits for minimum expenses.

And to aggravate the scene further, many carriers who promise a walk-away' lease, fail to release the funds collected from the drivers for deposits or repairs, in case the driver wants to leave the contract for any reason. Such experiences have led to the drivers questioning whether truck leasing opportunities are real opportunities or simply an easy way to a more complicated financial disaster.

Even though there have been instances that prove that leasing a truck may be a big gamble for drivers, but another side of the same story reports that there are numerous truck drivers who have turned their logistics business into a profitable enterprise. Therefore the drivers are primarily left with their own conscience to get to their personal conclusion.