AUC 301 Emergency Tree Cutting and Clearing

Question 1

When do we remove trees on private property or fallen on a vehicle?

Answer 1

3. 3 Department operations on private property are limited to assisting trapped or injured persons and preventing unauthorized entry into the danger area. Members can be deployed in the removal of obstructions blocking entrance to a building. This decision is to be based upon the existence of other adequate means of exit and the complexity of the operation.
4. 4 Members are not to attempt to remove a tree which has fallen on a vehicle unless such action is required to perform a rescue, administer first aid, or establish an emergency lane.

Question 2

When structural stability is in question who should the IC notify and possibly issue a what?

Answer 2

5.4 Any structure involved in the incident is to be searched for injured or trapped occupants.
Its structural stability is to be assessed. Incident Commander must consider the need for
issuance of Vacate order and/or notification of Department of Buildings.

Question 3

When a member operates from a TL bucket what precautions need to be taken?

Answer 3

5. 8 Chain saw is not to be operated from a ladder. It may be operated from a Tower Ladder if the follow precautions are taken.
6. 8.1 Member should start saw in the basket and then hold it outside the basket until it is shut off.
7. 8.2 Operator shall wear installed safety belt. Member is to keep both feet within the basket.