Policy Number 979 Section 16,19,25 Flashcards
1
Q
What is the recommended frequency for continuation training for working near water?
A
At least once a year
This can be increased if identified by the Station Commander or Sub/Stn Officer.
2
Q
What is essential for locations where water operations may take place?
A
Systems to identify and inspect these locations must be in place and recorded on the ORD.
3
Q
Define Level 1 water operations.
A
Operations where firefighters work within 3m of unprotected water or enter water without risk of being swept off their feet.
4
Q
What must the Incident Commander (IC) establish regarding unprotected water?
A
A restricted zone at least 3m from any unprotected water’s edge unless substantial protection is available.
5
Q
What is the minimum PPE for any firefighter entering water for a rescue?
A
- Full structural firefighting kit
- Personal flotation device (PFD)
6
Q
What is the hierarchy of rescue under Level 1 conditions?
A
- Talk (self-rescue)
- Reach
- Throw
7
Q
True or False: Firefighters trained in swift water rescue (SRT) may enter water without restrictions.
A
False
Firefighters not trained in SRT may only enter water as a last resort.
8
Q
What control measures must be in place before a firefighter enters the water to affect a rescue?
A
- A competent firefighter identified
- All personnel briefed
- Floating safety line supervisor in place
- Proper rigging and attachment to a safety line
- Use of inflated fire hose for buoyancy
- Effective communication established
- Minimize noise for communication
- Enter water slowly
- Gauge water depth before entering
- Monitor rescuer for distress
9
Q
What defines a wade rescue?
A
Entering the water to carry out a ‘Reach’ or ‘Throw’ rescue under certain circumstances.
10
Q
Who can perform a Row or Go/Tow rescue?
A
Only by FRU SRTs.
11
Q
What PPE must FRU SRTs wear during wade, row, or go/tow rescues?
A
- Drysuit
- PFD
- Water rescue helmet
- Gloves
- Thermal under clothing as required
12
Q
What should the IC position downstream during water operations?
A
Safety officers dressed in full PPE and equipped with throw lines.
13
Q
What are the hazards associated with crossing frozen water surfaces?
A
Ice breaking, swift water flow, drowning. Significant hazards that can only be controlled by FRU SRTs using appropriate equipment.
14
Q
What should be done if the initial call was not for an ice-related incident?
A
Send a priority message to implement water operations procedure level-2.
15
Q
What additional hazards are presented by mud rescues?
A
Deep mud unstable for applicables or equipment. Ground appearing safe. Particularly on the tidal Thames, requiring FRU SRTs or fireboat crews.
16
Q
What is the position of LFB associated with subsurface (water) rescue?
A
Considered too high due to hazards beyond LFB safe working procedures.
17
Q
What operations are involved in Level 3 water operations?
A
Deployment of the Flood Response Kit (FRK) for working near, on, or in floodwater.
18
Q
What types of flooding can London be vulnerable to?
A
- Fluvial (river)
- Pluvial (rain)
- Tidal
19
Q
What are the three phases of a flooding incident?
A
- Phase 1: Immediate life-saving rescues
- Phase 2: Rescue/recovery from temporary safety
- Phase 3: Final search and recovery
20
Q
What should firefighters wear during flood-related incidents?
A
PPE provided as part of the FRK and work in teams of a minimum of 4.
21
Q
What is the maximum wading depth for firefighters wearing L3 PPE?
A
60cms (2 feet)
22
Q
What should be done with PPE after contact with open water?
A
Decontaminated in accordance with the control of infection policy.
23
Q
Why should water supplies be treated as potentially contaminated?
A
Personal hygiene is important where crews have been in contact with open water or mud.
24
Q
What policy outlines the decontamination of PPE following an open water event?
A
Policy number 707 (The control of infection and infectious diseases policy).
25
What should be done with workwear uniform worn under contaminated fire gear?
It requires specialist cleaning under Policy number 533 – Uniform and personal protective equipment excluding structural firefighting PPE.
26
What is required for equipment used in open water upon return to the station?
It should be cleaned and tested according to appropriate standard tests and the infection control manual.
27
What is the Hazardous Materials health hazards notification policy?
It applies to all personnel who suffer cuts, scratches, or abrasions of the skin, regardless of how trivial.
28
What is the capacity of the Flood Rescue Boat (FRB)?
The FRB is rated to carry up to 8 adults.
29
Who must operate the FRB under power?
A minimum of two PB (powerboat handlers) and one FRU water rescue technician.
30
True or False: Firefighters are trained to operate with helicopters during major flooding events.
False.
31
What must the Incident Commander (IC) do upon contact with vehicle occupants in water?
Reassure them and brief them on the plan, including safety precautions and communication methods.
32
List some specific risks and hazards associated with vehicle rescues from water.
* Uncontrolled movement of the vehicle impacting or trapping casualty or rescuer
* Hazardous fluids leaking from the vehicle
* Sharps and snagging hazards on the vehicle
* Upstream and downstream siphon and entrapment hazards
* Unpredicted failure of ropes and lines under tension
33
What must be in place before initiating a rescue from a vehicle in the water?
Upstream and downstream backup strategies.
34
What is necessary for stabilizing a vehicle before a rescue?
The vehicle must be stabilized using strops or lines, protecting the line from sharps.
35
What orientation will a vehicle in flowing water normally have?
The engine block facing upstream.
36
Where should rescuers stabilize the vehicle from?
From the low risk zone.
37
What is the responsibility of the LFB in relation to rescues in inland waterways in London?
LFB has the responsibility for rescue in all other inland waterways.
38
What is the role of the Maritime Coastguard Agency (MCA) on the tidal section of the River Thames?
Coordinating authority for Search and Rescue (SAR).
39
What does the River Thames grid mobilising scheme assist with?
It enables the London Operations Centre – Merton (LOC) to mobilise resources to the correct location of an incident.
40
What is the role of Access Points (AP) on the River Thames?
To allow safe and effective access and egress for personnel and equipment.
41
What is a Reconnaissance point (RP)?
The initial mobilising location where LFB land crews can view a section of the river for rescue operations.
42
What must the fireboat do upon mobilization by the LOC?
Inform VTS on marine VHF channel 14 of their passage plan.
43
What should the fireboat crew ensure before leaving for an incident?
The fireboat is operationally ready and crew are rigged in appropriate PPE.
44
What is the responsibility of the appliance commander on the fireboat?
To assess if it is reasonable to respond to give assistance or rescue.
45
What is the first task in a man-overboard incident involving the Fireboat?
Locate the person and maintain visual contact.
46
What should be prepared for retrieval in a man-overboard incident?
Retrieval equipment.
47
What should be prepared and deployed when ERB is being positioned?
Retrieval equipment
## Footnote
This ensures readiness for operations involving the fireboat.
48
What may cause a vessel to lose the ability to maneuver?
Mechanical failure or incapacitated crew
## Footnote
These factors necessitate the assistance of a fireboat.
49
What communication methods should be used when approaching a vessel for assistance?
Marine VHF radio or verbally
## Footnote
Effective communication is crucial for coordination.
50
What should the appliance commander and coxswain consider when towing a vessel?
River and meteorological conditions
## Footnote
These factors impact the safety and success of the towing operation.
51
What must be established before any towing operation?
Understanding of the objective and type of tow
## Footnote
Clear communication among all parties is essential.
52
What hazards should be considered when performing towing operations?
Lines under tension
## Footnote
Serious injury can occur if not managed correctly.
53
What factors must be considered before personnel board a vessel midstream?
* State of the tide
* Ability to maintain contact with the vessel
* Proximity of other river traffic
* Obstacles in the river
## Footnote
These factors ensure safety during boarding operations.
54
What is the priority when a vessel is taking on water?
Evacuation of persons on board
## Footnote
This is critical due to the increased risk to life.
55
What should be considered before assisting a vessel taking on water?
* Amount of water taken on
* Vessel size
* Cause of taking on water
* Options for stopping water ingress
* State of the tide
## Footnote
These considerations help assess the situation and plan an effective response.
56
What is a key point to consider when evacuating persons from a vessel?
Immediacy of the threat to life
## Footnote
This determines the urgency of the evacuation.
57
What equipment should be used for rescues from the foreshore?
* Inflatable rescue path (IRP)
* Mud lance
## Footnote
These tools enhance safety and effectiveness during rescues.
58
Who has primacy at incidents involving persons threatening to jump from structures?
MPS (Metropolitan Police Service)
## Footnote
They coordinate the response in such critical situations.
59
What should be done if body recovery is requested?
Refer to a National Inter Agency Liaison Officer (NILO) and a Tactical Advisor (TAR)
## Footnote
This ensures proper protocol is followed during body recovery.
60
What protective measures should be taken when recovering a body?
* Avoid direct contact with blood/body fluids
* Wear appropriate PPE
* Consider cross-contamination
* Decontaminate PPE and crew
## Footnote
These measures are vital for health and safety.
61
What is the first consideration in a HAZMAT incident?
Bring the vessel alongside
## Footnote
This enables safer and more effective management of the incident.
62
What should be done if a HAZMAT vessel cannot be brought alongside?
* Confirm and proceed to the appropriate Access Point (AP)
* Crew dons HAZMAT PPE
* Fireboat transports crew to affected vessel
* Approach upwind
## Footnote
These steps are critical for safety and effective response.
63
What is the responsibility of the fireboat or land-based IC regarding environmental protection?
Inform the PLA and/or EA of potential environmental damage
## Footnote
This is crucial for mobilizing appropriate resources to mitigate pollution.
64
What role can the fireboat assume during river incidents?
On Scene Coordinator (OSC) vessel
## Footnote
This role is essential for coordinating the response efforts on the river.
65
What must be established before launching an Emergency Rescue Boat (ERB)?
Contact with VTS on Airwave channel ES3
## Footnote
This ensures communication and coordination during operations.
66
What is the maximum capacity of an ERB?
7 people (650kg)
## Footnote
This includes rescuers and equipment.
67
What must all crew members wear when launching an ERB?
Dry suits, personal flotation devices, and rescue helmets
## Footnote
These are essential for safety during water operations.
68
What should be done after completing HAZMAT tasks?
Transport contaminated personnel back and apply decontamination procedures
## Footnote
This is necessary to ensure safety and prevent contamination.
69
What must all crew wear when operating on the river or foreshore?
Dry suits, personal flotation devices, and rescue helmets.
70
How must ERBs be launched?
Under power, with the paddles stowed on the ERB.
71
What is the minimum crew requirement for ERBs based on operational needs?
A minimum of two, including one trained powerboat handler.
72
Where must ERBs operate in relation to the incident commander?
Within sight of the incident commander, delegated safety officer, or support craft.
73
What communication must be maintained during ERB operations?
Handheld radio communications with the IC and fireboat at all times.
74
What should the incident commander do after deploying the ERB?
Inform the MCA via airwave and LFB Control as soon as possible.
75
What additional safety measures should the IC implement as soon as practicable?
* Brief and deploy spotters
* Deploy a second FRU with BT attribute
* Establish communication with relevant agencies
* Brief ERB crew on objectives
76
When should operations for the ERB cease?
When all rescues are achieved, conditions are unsafe, or no casualties are found after 90 minutes.
77
What must be done to the ERB after it is removed from the river?
It must be thoroughly washed using a hose reel before being re-stowed.
78
What guidelines are in place for training with ERBs on the River Thames?
Strict guidelines agreed between LFB, MCA, and PLA.
79
What must be completed and forwarded to the PLA before a training event?
The training notification template must be completed and forwarded at least 14 days prior.
80
What must crews do before launching for training on the Thames?
Establish contact with VTS on Airwave channel 'M SAR HG'.
81
What are the designated roles in a line operations team?
* Line ops team leader
* Line ops team safety officer
* Rescuer
* 2 x operators
82
What should an incident commander do if an FRU is needed for safe working at height?
Send an assistance message requesting an FRU for line operations level 1.
83
What is the difference between level 1 and level 2 line operations?
Level 1 supports weight with backup; Level 2 relies wholly on equipment.
84
What must be established to control the immediate scene of operations when working at height?
An inner cordon must be established.
85
What is prohibited by work at height regulations regarding weather conditions?
Planned working at height is prohibited if weather conditions may compromise safety.
86
What should be done when working at height near an unguarded edge?
Establish a safe system of work and erect temporary physical barriers if possible.
87
What hierarchy of controls should be applied when planning work at height?
* Carrying out the task remotely
* Safe working platform
* Working behind barriers
* Work restraint
* Work positioning
* Fall arrest
88
What is the primary means of support in work restraint or fall arrest systems?
The individual supports their own weight.
89
What type of system must all activities involving suspending crew members use?
A twin line system.
90
What must the line operations team leader have in every situation where line operations are implemented?
A plan for recovering or rescuing crews if needed.
91
What is the maximum load considered a 'rescue' load?
200Kg maximum.
92
What must be done if line operations equipment is used to secure a load to prevent imminent injury?
It must be removed from service and returned for inspection.
93
Under what circumstances can single line systems for suspension be used?
In exceptional circumstances after a risk assessment.
94
What should personnel avoid doing during a protest situation?
Personnel should not attempt to secure persons making a protest or assist their situation, such as by offering food or clothing.
95
What must be done with line operations equipment used to secure a load after DRA?
It must be removed from service and returned with a full report to Operations support centre (OSC) for inspection.
96
What type of system should be used for suspending crew members?
A twin line system.
97
Under what circumstances can a single line system be used for suspension?
In exceptional circumstances following a risk assessment if the time taken to implement a twin line system might result in further injury or death.
98
What must be put into place when a single line is used to suspend a live person?
A backup or second line must be put into place at the earliest practicable opportunity.
99
What should be reported when a single line is used to suspend a live person?
The event is to be reported as a 'near miss' safety event.
100
Should a live person be raised or lowered on a single line system during training?
No, under no circumstances should a live person be raised or lowered on a single line system during training.
101
What is the role of a Technical Rescue Tactical Advisor (TAR)?
TARs provide advice and support to the Incident Commander (IC) and can act as a functional sector commander at incidents involving line operations.
102
When is a TAR mobilized?
A TAR is informed when level 1 line operations are implemented and mobilised when level 2 line operations are implemented.
103
Is the presence of a TAR necessary for operations to commence?
No, it is not necessary for the TAR to be present for operations to commence.
104
What should be considered when working with personnel from other agencies at incidents?
Only LFB line operations equipment should be used by personnel from other agencies unless there is a formal agreement.
105
What is the responsibility of police in incidents involving persons in crisis or protesting?
Negotiating with persons in crisis or protesting is the responsibility of the police.
106
Under what condition should the IC proceed with a rescue?
The IC should only proceed with a rescue if the casualty requests help or becomes unconscious or incapacitated.
107
What should be done if a body recovery request is received?
It must be referred to the duty NILO and a TAR.
108
What does body recovery refer to?
Body recovery refers to casualties known to be deceased prior to the call being made to the Fire Brigade.
109
What must happen to line operations equipment after an incident?
All line operations equipment should be examined by competent line operations technicians before being placed back into use.
110
What is the first step in rescue operations from collapsed structures?
An initial survey and dynamic risk assessment (DRA) should be carried out.
111
What does the 'Six Stages of Rescue' acronym R.E.P.E.A.T stand for?
* R: Reconnaissance and survey
* E: Elimination of utilities
* P: Primary surface search and rescue
* E: Exploration of voids and spaces
* A: Access by selected debris removal
* T: Termination by general debris removal
112
What is the purpose of reconnaissance and survey during a rescue operation?
To search for possible casualties and evaluate the structure's stability and potential danger to rescue personnel.
113
What should be done with utilities during rescue operations?
All utilities must be evaluated and controlled for safety, often best practice is to shut down all utilities when possible.
114
What is the focus during the primary surface search and rescue stage?
To prioritize individual rescue sites and determine resources based on the potential for successful rescue of those trapped.
115
What should be used to identify areas that have been searched during a rescue operation?
Cordon tape should be used.
116
What should personnel be cautious of when entering a debris pile?
The debris of the building is very unstable and prone to additional movement.
117
What should be done with casualties who require lowering or lifting?
They should receive medical assessment by LAS, even if they have no apparent injuries.
118
What must be ensured during the rescue phase to protect rescue teams?
Care must be used to ensure rescue teams do not become casualties.
119
What should personnel be cautious of regarding the appearance of a structure?
Outward appearance may be misleading; settled debris could lack genuine support.
120
What is the primary focus during the exploration of voids and spaces?
Search for live casualties in all voids and accessible spaces.
121
How can rescuers identify the locations of casualties during the search?
Use a system of calling out.
122
What devices can be utilized to explore voids?
Thermal imaging camera (TIC).
123
What routine action should be taken approximately every hour during the incident?
Shut down all work for a few minutes to listen for calls for help.
124
What measures should be taken regarding noise during the rescue operation?
Stop or reduce noise and vibration from surrounding sources.
125
What is the purpose of selected debris removal?
To remove only certain obstructions blocking access to a casualty.
126
Why is information about a casualty’s location prior to the collapse helpful?
It aids in the selected debris removal phase.
127
When is general debris removal typically conducted?
After all known casualties have been removed.
128
What exceptions exist for conducting general debris removal?
When there may be other casualties, large debris obstructing operations, or when using heavy equipment.
129
Under whose authority do USAR teams operate?
The Incident Commander (IC).
130
What are non-government organisations (NGOs) in the context of search and rescue?
Organisations offering search and rescue capabilities, not linked to the UK fire service or local authorities.
131
What should incident commanders be aware of regarding media attention?
Incidents are likely to attract considerable media attention from early stages.
132
What should ICs ensure regarding NGOs operating at the incident?
NGOs must operate within the Brigade's incident plan and adhere to the National Incident Command system.
133
What protocol should be followed for offers of assistance from NGOs?
Refer offers to the officer of the day (OOD) for consideration by the duty assistant commissioner.
134
What should not happen until approval is given by the duty assistant commissioner?
NGOs should not take any role in the incident.
135
How should requests for special equipment be made during incidents?
In accordance with mobilising policy.
