Firefighter emergency, emergency evacuation and tactical withdrawal

Question 1

Define the term Tactical Withdrawal?

Answer 1

Tactical withdrawal is the removal of personnel from a specific area of potential danger in a safe and planned manner.

Question 2

Who will will normally be implemented a tactical withdrawal?

Answer 2

1. The IC
2. Operations Commander
3. Sector Commander
4. Safety Officer

Question 3

What are the actions of an IC when a tactical withdrawal is initiated?

Answer 3

1. Plan and initiate the phased withdrawal of crews, ensuring those in the area of greatest risk are withdrawn first. This may require other crews to maintain safe egress routes until all personnel have withdrawn.
2. Brief all sector commanders and relevant crews of the plan.
3. Remember that BA team(s) can be evacuated via the telemetry entry control board ‘selective evacuation’ procedure or by handheld fireground radio if deemed more appropriate.
4. Send an Informative Message to Brigade Control outlining details of the tactical withdrawa

Question 4

What are the actions of personnel when a tactical withdrawal is initiated?

Answer 4

Upon hearing the evacuation signal personnel will, if possible:

1. Repeat the signal.
2. Withdraw from the scene of operations to a place of safety.
3. Assemble at the booking-in point, i.e. Initial Command Pump (ICP) or Command Unit (CU) unless directed otherwise.

Question 5

Define the term Firefighter emergency (FFE)?

Answer 5

This term will apply whenever Fire Service personnel, or personnel working under the control of the LFB, are unaccounted for and/or in need of rescue.

Question 6

On receipt of the FFE message, what resources will Brigade Control mobilise?

Answer 6

1. 6 Pumps (inc 3 PL with WMs in charge)
2. 2 Fire Rescue Units (FRU)
3. Fire Investigation Unit (FIU)
4. Command Unit (CU)
5. An ambulance
6. Press Liaison Officer (PLO)
7. Fire Safety Officer (FSO)
8. 3 Station Managers
9. Group Manager
10. Deputy Assistant Commissioner
11. Senior Accident Investigator (SAI).

Question 7

Following the declaration of a FFE, what should be considered?

Answer 7

Either an Emergency Evacuation or Tactical Withdrawal followed by a role call.