DA Form 5379: Apparatus Maintenance Checklist (PDF Download)

DA Form 5379: Apparatus Maintenance Checklist (PDF Download) – Maintaining fire apparatus readiness is critical for mission success, personnel safety, and regulatory compliance in U.S. Army installations. DA Form 5379, officially titled Apparatus Maintenance Checklist, serves as the primary daily tool for documenting inspections and ensuring emergency vehicles and equipment remain fully operational.

This article covers everything you need to know about the form, its purpose, how to use it, key checklist items, and best practices for Army fire protection programs.

What Is DA Form 5379?

DA Form 5379 (dated AUG 2006) is a standardized U.S. Army form prescribed for use under AR 420-90 (Fire and Emergency Services) and related facilities management guidance. It provides a structured daily/periodic inspection record for fire apparatus, such as pumpers, aerial devices, and other emergency response vehicles.

The form includes:

  • Section A: Daily inspection status with columns for each day of the month.
  • Section B: Action taken, problem reports, work orders, and mechanic signatures.

It uses a simple numeric legend (1 = OK, 2 = Low, 3 = Damaged, etc.) for quick, consistent documentation.

Download the official fillable PDF here: DA Form 5379 Apparatus Maintenance Checklist

Purpose and Importance in Army Fire and Emergency Services

Army fire departments on installations must maintain peak readiness for structural, aircraft, wildland, and HAZMAT response. DA Form 5379 ensures:

  • Preventive maintenance to catch issues before they become failures.
  • Compliance with Army Regulations (e.g., AR 420-1 Facilities Management, Chapter 25 on Fire and Emergency Services) and consensus standards like NFPA.
  • Accountability through documented operator and supervisor initials, plus follow-up actions.

Regular use reduces downtime, extends vehicle life, supports warranty claims, and demonstrates due diligence in safety audits.

Key Items on the DA Form 5379 Checklist

The form focuses on critical daily checks for fire apparatus. Common items include:

Section A – Daily Inspection Status:

  • Fuel (fill at 3/4)
  • Engine oil
  • Radiator (coolant)
  • Tire air pressure
  • Lights
  • Battery
  • Fan belt
  • Brakes
  • Air pressure (drain tanks)
  • Clutch
  • Windshield wipers
  • Start engine
  • Warning devices
  • Engage pump
  • Instrument panel
  • Firefighting agents
  • Relief valve set (150 psig)
  • Primer oil
  • Flush pump (monthly)
  • Vacuum test (monthly)
  • Drafting operation (annual)
  • Grid maps
  • Jaws of Life (weekly operation)
  • Hose change (pumper – monthly)
  • K-12 saw (weekly operation)
  • Radio check
  • Appearance
  • Operator’s and supervisor’s initials

Legend for Status Codes:

  • 1 = OK
  • 2 = Low
  • 3 = Damaged
  • 4 = Dirty
  • 5 = Needs adjustment
  • 6 = Needs replacing
  • 7 = Malfunction
  • 8 = Incomplete
  • 9 = Missing
  • 10 = Fire department responsibility
  • 11 = Maintenance responsibility

Section B tracks reported problems, dates, work orders, and resolutions.

How to Properly Complete DA Form 5379? (Step-by-Step)

  1. Identify the apparatus — Enter name/number, month, and calendar year at the top.
  2. Perform daily walk-around and operational checks — Follow manufacturer guidelines and unit SOPs.
  3. Mark status — Enter the appropriate code for each item in the daily columns.
  4. Initial — Operator and supervisor sign off.
  5. Document issues — Use Section B for any deficiencies, including work order numbers and mechanic signatures.
  6. File and retain — Keep records per Army maintenance management policies (e.g., TAMMS).

Best practice: Integrate with broader preventive maintenance programs, including weekly, monthly, and annual services (e.g., pump tests, aerial inspections).

Best Practices for Fire Apparatus Maintenance

  • Combine with manufacturer recommendations and NFPA standards (e.g., NFPA 1911 for inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire apparatus).
  • Digital tracking where allowed, but retain the official DA Form 5379 for compliance.
  • Train personnel on consistent use to avoid overlooked items like fluid levels, tire conditions, or specialized equipment (SCBA, hydraulic tools, etc.).
  • Address findings promptly — Use DA Form 2404 or 5988-E for detailed maintenance discrepancies when needed.
  • Schedule deeper checks: Fluid analysis, brake tests, pump performance, and aerial device operations per technical manuals.

Consistent use of DA Form 5379 helps Army fire departments meet readiness metrics and protect lives and property.

Who Uses DA Form 5379?

  • Army Installation Fire Departments (Active Duty, National Guard, Reserve).
  • Emergency Services personnel responsible for apparatus.
  • Maintenance teams supporting fire protection programs.

It applies across U.S. Army garrisons and aligns with broader facilities engineering requirements.

Stay Compliant and Prepared

Proper documentation with DA Form 5379 is a cornerstone of effective fire apparatus management. Regular inspections ensure your equipment is mission-ready when seconds count.

Official Download: https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/pdf/DA%20FORM%205379.pdf

For the latest guidance, consult your local Directorate of Emergency Services, AR 420-1, and installation fire regulations. Always cross-reference with current technical manuals for your specific apparatus.