SOG's Flashcards
Apartment House ?
A structure that is divided into separate apartments.
Attack Stairway ?
In a high-rise building, this is the stairway that is designated for hoseline advancement and operations.
Attic ?
A space found directly below the pitched roof of a house or building. This space may be used for either living or storage and is accessed by stairs or ladders.
Basement?
A floor of a building that is partially or entirely below ground level.
C.A.N. Report ?
Acronym for Conditions, Actions, and Needs that are used to describe current fire ground conditions, actions that are being performed and resources that may be needed. This term is also synonymous with a update that is provided to the Incident commander or responding Battalion Fire Chief
Cockloft
The space located between the underside of the roof and the top floor ceiling. The Cock Loft is typically 3 feet or less in height with no direct access from below.
Critical Factors
Critical factors are the things that affect the ability to accomplish tactical priorities and impact firefighter safety. These factors fall into 8 standard categories to include: The Building/Fire/Occupancy/Life Hazard/Arrangement/Resources/Action/Special Circumstances.
Defensive Operation
An incident where operations are limited to the exterior of a structure and outside of the established collapse zone.
Detached Building
A stand-alone structure.
Dwelling
A place of residence.
Egress
A continuous and unobstructed way of travel from any accessible point in a building or facility to the exterior.
English Basement
A floor of a building that is below ground level and has an entrance located on the front (A-Alpha) side of the Structure
Evacuation Stairway
– In a high-rise building, this is the stairway that is designated for the removal of occupants.
Fire Resistive Construction
In these structures, the walls, partitions, columns, floors, and roofs are noncombustible. Exposed steel, such as girders, columns, beams and roof trusses must have approved fireproofing material applied to meet this standard. If any part of the structure lacks the above definition, the building will not meet the Fire Resistive standard.
Flanking
A tactic utilized to quickly control the extent of fire from an exterior position. This is a common practice when controlling the horizontal fire spread in incidents involving rear porches. This can be accomplished in-conjunction with a simultaneous interior attack.
Floor
Designated number consistent with the living space in a structure.
Garden Apartment Building
An apartment complex (containing lawns and gardens) in which the structures ARE FOUR-FLOORS OR LOWER and constructed of ordinary or wood frame components.
Hallway
A common area or corridor with entry/exit points to numerous rooms
Heavy Duty
An operation where hoselines or appliances capable of flowing 325 gallons perminute or more are utilized.
Heavy Timber Construction
Heavy Timber construction consists of masonry or some other noncombustible material exterior walls. Interior columns, beams and girders are of heavy timber (minimum 8”x8”). Floors and roofs are of heavy planks (minimum 3”x6”).
High-Rise
In the District of Columbia, any building the height of which is 5 stories or more is considered a high-rise structure.
Hoisting
The process of raising a hoseline, tool or appliance with a rope
Hybrid Construction
A mixed use of two or more construction types in one building. Typically, the ground level floor(s) will be fire resistive construction, while the upper floors will be lightweight wood frame construction. In the District of Columbia, these buildings commonly reach 8-stories in height. By law, the lightweight portion of the building cannot exceed 5-stories.
Incident Action Plan
The objectives reflecting the overall incident strategy, tactics, risk management, and member safety that are developed by the Incident Commander. These plans are updated and remain fluid throughout the incident.
Incident Commander
The individual responsible for all incident activities, including the development of the strategies and tactics and the ordering and the release of resources. The term “Incident Commander” shall refer to the person that has command (Company or Chief Officer) of the incident. The initial Incident Commander shall remain in command of the incident until command has been assumed, transferred or the incident is stabilized and command is terminated.
Knee Wall
A short wall, typically less than three feet in height, used to support rafters in timber roof construction. Usually found in structures with peaked roofs. Knee walls are typically covered with plaster or gypsum board by enclosing the useful part of the attic space while the remaining small space under the eaves is only used for storage. This space is ideal for concealing fire spread and must be quickly accessed.
Leader Line
A 2 ½” or 3” hoseline, connected to the Wagon and utilized to supply one or two 1 ½” hoselines through a gated “Y” or reducer.
Lightweight
– A term that describes the density and dimensions of engineered/fabricated wood or metal structural components. Commonly utilized to describe truss roofs, floor joists and wall assemblies in frame construction.
Lobby
An area of a building, providing a space out of which one or more other rooms or corridors lead, typically near the main entrance of a public building.
Long-Length Hoseline
– An attack hoseline, of any size, that is 350’ or longer.
Lowering
The process of lowering a hoseline from an elevated point, such as a window or rooftop.
MAYDAY
A term signifying that a firefighter is in distress due to being lost, trapped or any other life threatening situation.
Non-Combustible Construction
Non-Combustible Construction
Ordinary Construction
With ordinary construction, exterior walls and other structural elements that are portions of exterior walls are of approved noncombustible or limited combustible material, such as brick, block, stone and concrete. Walls, floors, and roofs are constructed of wood.
Offensive Operation
An incident where members will be operating (in full PPE/SCBA) inside of a structure with an IDLH atmosphere present.
Rear Porch
A covered rear area, constructed of wood, commonly found attached to rowhouses in the District of Columbia.
Response Order
The position due, as assigned by the Office of Unified Communications upon the initial dispatch of an assignment.
Row Building
– A structure with two or more attached exposures.
Scrub Area
The area of a building wall that can be touched by the tip or bucket of the aerial.
Semi-Detached Building
A structure that has a similar attached exposure on one side.
Solid Stream
A water stream that is delivered through a solid tip on a play-pipe or heavy duty device.
Stairway (Stairwell)
A set of steps or stairs that is either enclosed with surrounding walls or open with railings.
Stories
– Is the number of levels above ground
Straight Stream
A water stream that is delivered through a CVFSS tip and less than a 30degree fog pattern.
Vacant Building
A vacant building in the District of Columbia is defined by the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs as a property that has been unoccupied for a minimum of 30 days.
V.E.I.S
Acronym for Vent Enter Isolate Search, which is a tactic that is used to search an area of the building where access is made through an exterior window.
Ventilation Stairway
– In a high-rise building, this is the stairway that is designated for ventilation of heat, smoke and toxic gases.
Void Space
A concealed area within a structure that requires removal of coverings, such as drywall and paneling to gain access.
Warehouse Building
A large building, normally constructed with ordinary, fire resistive or non-combustible components that is utilized to store raw materials or manufactured goods.
Well-Hole
An open area, in the center of a stairwell, normally found in buildings that are four stories and taller.
Wood Frame Construction
– Wood frame construction is defined by NFPA as all structural elements, such as walls, floors, roof, arches, which are constructed entirely or partially of wood.
Firefighting and responding to hazardous incidents are inherently dangerous activities. All members shall wear and utilize full Personal Protective Equipment/SCBA when operating in Immediately Dangerous to Life/Health (IDLH) atmospheres. This shall include performing interior and exterior duties. Failure to follow these policies and procedures, set forth by the District of Columbia Fire/EMS Department (and federal agencies) may result in serious injury or death.
Firefighting and responding to hazardous incidents are inherently dangerous activities. All members shall wear and utilize full Personal Protective Equipment/SCBA when operating in Immediately Dangerous to Life/Health (IDLH) atmospheres. This shall include performing interior and exterior duties. Failure to follow these policies and procedures, set forth by the District of Columbia Fire/EMS Department (and federal agencies) may result in serious injury or death.
PERSONNEL ACCOUNTABILITY
The purpose of the Personnel Accountability System is to account for all firefighters operating within the Hazard Zone of an incident. Use of the system will provide enhanced personal safety for the individual firefighter, and will provide the Command Staff an improved means to track and account for all personnel working in the Hazard Zone.
The Hazard Zone will be defined AS
The Hazard Zone will be defined as “any area that requires Self Contained Breathing Apparatus or in which a firefighter is at risk of becoming lost, trapped, or injured by the environment or structure.”
The Hazard Zone includes the following:
- A structure reported to be on fire
- Close proximity to the structure during exterior operations
- Confined space
- Trench incident
- Collapsed building
- Metro incident
The Hazard Zone includes the following:
- A structure reported to be on fire
- Close proximity to the structure during exterior operations
- Confined space
- Trench incident
- Collapsed building
- Metro incident
The Personnel Accountability System begins when members assume duty on an emergency response vehicle?
The Personnel Accountability System begins when members assume duty on an emergency response vehicle, and place their Personnel Accountability Tag (PAT) on the Unit’s “Unit Designator Card” (UDC).
The First Due Battalion Fire Chief shall begin tracking the units assigned to the incident the moment units are dispatched and continue until the incident has been mitigated, and the Incident Commander determines tracking is no longer necessary.
The First Due Battalion Fire Chief shall begin tracking the units assigned to the incident the moment units are dispatched and continue until the incident has been mitigated, and the Incident Commander determines tracking is no longer necessary.
The accountability system will in no way reduce the Company Officer’s primary responsibility to closely supervise crewmembers (WHAT Level Accountability?),
The accountability system will in no way reduce the Company Officer’s primary responsibility to closely supervise crewmembers (Task Level Accountability),
crewmembers’ responsibility (WHAT KIND Accountability?) to maintain the Unit’s integrity.
crewmembers’ responsibility (Personal Accountability) to maintain the Unit’s integrity.
The Company Officer shall provide for the company’s safety, and will maintain communications with Group/Division Supervisors (Tactical Level
Accountability)
The Company Officer shall provide for the company’s safety, and will maintain communications with Group/Division Supervisors (Tactical Level
Accountability)
)/Branch Directors or Command (Strategic Level Accountability).
)/Branch Directors or Command (Strategic Level Accountability).
• The minimum crew operating in a Hazard Zone shall be two firefighters with a least one portable radio.
• The minimum crew operating in a Hazard Zone shall be two firefighters with a least one portable radio.
Personnel Accountability Tags Color Codes:
White Officers and PIO
Yellow Firefighters
Orange EMS
Blue Fire Inspector
Red Other Members – as directed by the Fire Chief
White Officers and PIO Yellow Firefighters Orange EMS Blue Fire Inspector Red Other Members – as directed by the Fire Chief
The PAT is considered to be an issued item of personal protective equipment.
The PAT is considered to be an issued item of personal protective equipment.
It will be the responsibility of the member to replace his/her PAT by the next scheduled tour of duty. Members are allowed to purchase additional PATs from the Training Academy.
It will be the responsibility of the member to replace his/her PAT by the next scheduled tour of duty. Members are allowed to purchase additional PATs from the Training Academy.
Color Designation of UDCs:
Red Engine Company Green Truck Company Black Rescue Squad Orange EMS Units: BLS & ALS Gold Chiefs, EMS Supervisor, Haz-Mat, Fire Boat, Air Unit and other units
Color Designation of UDCs:
Red Engine Company Green Truck Company Black Rescue Squad Orange EMS Units: BLS & ALS Gold Chiefs, EMS Supervisor, Haz-Mat, Fire Boat, Air Unit and other units
Unit accountability will be required within ten minutes after the arrival of the first company on the scene of the incident. Command will contact each company to confirm their location and assignment.
Unit accountability will be required within ten minutes after the arrival of the first company on the scene of the incident. Command will contact each company to confirm their location and assignment.
A formal “Roll Call” to account for each individual on the fire ground will be conducted at the 20-minute interval of the incident, and at each subsequent 20-minute interval.
A formal “Roll Call” to account for each individual on the fire ground will be conducted at the 20-minute interval of the incident, and at each subsequent 20-minute interval.
The Incident Commander shall conduct a formal Roll Call when changing from offensive to defensive operations, or whenever an event occurs that could jeopardize Companies operating on the fire ground.
The Incident Commander shall conduct a formal Roll Call when changing from offensive to defensive operations, or whenever an event occurs that could jeopardize Companies operating on the fire ground.
The Incident Commander shall conduct a formal Roll Call prior to returning Units on any incident where Command has been established and members have operated within an IDLH atmosphere.
The Incident Commander shall conduct a formal Roll Call prior to returning Units on any incident where Command has been established and members have operated within an IDLH atmosphere.
Persons or crews unaccounted for will not stop Roll Call from other Groups or Divisions
Persons or crews unaccounted for will not stop Roll Call from other Groups or Divisions
- If any personnel cannot be accounted for, the Group/Division Supervisor or Branch Director will report the status of the missing person as unknown and give the last known location.
- The Group/Division Supervisor or Branch Director will then initiate search procedures within their assigned area.
- If any personnel cannot be accounted for, the Group/Division Supervisor or Branch Director will report the status of the missing person as unknown and give the last known location.
- The Group/Division Supervisor or Branch Director will then initiate search procedures within their assigned area.
Roll Call shall be done in the following situations, after assuring continued suppression efforts and all obvious mitigation options have been initiated by Companies operating in the immediate vicinity:
- Upon receiving a MAYDAY transmission.
- Report of personnel missing or trapped.
- A Unit or Crew cannot be contacted in the Hazard Zone after three consecutive attempts by radio contact.
- Sudden hazardous change on the incident scene such as vapor release, collapse, etc.
- After an evacuation of the building has been ordered.
Roll Call shall be done in the following situations, after assuring continued suppression efforts and all obvious mitigation options have been initiated by Companies operating in the immediate vicinity:
- Upon receiving a MAYDAY transmission.
- Report of personnel missing or trapped.
- A Unit or Crew cannot be contacted in the Hazard Zone after three consecutive attempts by radio contact.
- Sudden hazardous change on the incident scene such as vapor release, collapse, etc.
- After an evacuation of the building has been ordered.
When the Roll Call indicates personnel are missing or unaccounted for, Command shall declare a MAYDAY.
When the Roll Call indicates personnel are missing or unaccounted for, Command shall declare a MAYDAY.
- Command shall establish a MAYDAY BRANCH to locate the missing personnel.
- The MAYDAY procedures will remain in effect until the MAYDAY operations are completed and the Incident Commander reports the results of the MAYDAY operations and returns to normal fire ground operations.
- Command shall establish a MAYDAY BRANCH to locate the missing personnel.
- The MAYDAY procedures will remain in effect until the MAYDAY operations are completed and the Incident Commander reports the results of the MAYDAY operations and returns to normal fire ground operations.
LEVELS OF ACCOUNTABILITY
LEVEL I: Company Officers shall insure that all PATs on the UDC reflect the names of all personnel assigned to that unit for that tour of duty.
LEVEL I: Company Officers shall insure that all PATs on the UDC reflect the names of all personnel assigned to that unit for that tour of duty.
LEVEL II: All UDCs are to be collected from the apparatus and delivered to the command post in the following conditions:
- Command may designate a company to collect all UDCs.
- Command may order units to bring their UDCs to the command post.
LEVEL II: All UDCs are to be collected from the apparatus and delivered to the command post in the following conditions:
- Command may designate a company to collect all UDCs.
- Command may order units to bring their UDCs to the command post.
LEVEL III: The Incident Commander shall decide that the incident requires more stringent accountability (i.e. Metro, Hazardous Material, High-Rise, Confined Space, Bombings, Structural Collapse, Trench Rescue, before mop-up operations, etc.).
The Incident Commander shall implement ‘ENTRY CONTROL”
Once LEVEL III accountability has been established, all units will bring their UDCs with
PATs attached to the entry control point and present them to the Entry Control Officer. Personnel shall check with the Entry Control Officer when they ENTER AND EXIT. Units may NOT exit at any other location from which they entered except in an emergency and Command MUST be immediately notified.
LEVEL III: The Incident Commander shall decide that the incident requires more stringent accountability (i.e. Metro, Hazardous Material, High-Rise, Confined Space, Bombings, Structural Collapse, Trench Rescue, before mop-up operations, etc.).
The Incident Commander shall implement ‘ENTRY CONTROL”
Once LEVEL III accountability has been established, all units will bring their UDCs with
PATs attached to the entry control point and present them to the Entry Control Officer. Personnel shall check with the Entry Control Officer when they ENTER AND EXIT. Units may NOT exit at any other location from which they entered except in an emergency and Command MUST be immediately notified.
Entry Control at LEVEL III:
Anytime Level III accountability has been ordered, the Incident Commander will notify the OUC to sound a two-second alert tone on the Incident Talk Group. Upon conclusion of the alert tone, the Incident Commander shall advise units that Level III Accountability has been implemented and the location of the Entry Control point(s).
Unit Designator Cards will be considered part of the apparatus inventory and will be maintained as such.
Entry Control at LEVEL III:
Anytime Level III accountability has been ordered, the Incident Commander will notify the OUC to sound a two-second alert tone on the Incident Talk Group. Upon conclusion of the alert tone, the Incident Commander shall advise units that Level III Accountability has been implemented and the location of the Entry Control point(s).
Unit Designator Cards will be considered part of the apparatus inventory and will be maintained as such.
MAYDAY PROCEDURES
Fireground communications can become very hectic and confusing when a fire fighter is in DISTRESS, becomes LOST or TRAPPED. The term “MAYDAY” is the international distress signal, and shall only be used when a member is in trouble and needs immediate assistance.
MAYDAY PROCEDURES
Fireground communications can become very hectic and confusing when a fire fighter is in DISTRESS, becomes LOST or TRAPPED. The term “MAYDAY” is the international distress signal, and shall only be used when a member is in trouble and needs immediate assistance.
Individual(s) declaring a “MAYDAY” will:
- Activate the orange “Emergency Activation” button located on the top of the portable radio.
Individual(s) declaring a “MAYDAY” will:
- Activate the orange “Emergency Activation” button located on the top of the portable radio.
Depressing this button will cause the radio to emit a set of four highpitched tones, and the word “Emergency” will be displayed on the radio’s LCD display and at the OUC.
Depressing this button will cause the radio to emit a set of four highpitched tones, and the word “Emergency” will be displayed on the radio’s LCD display and at the OUC.
- Push the push-to-talk button, and transmit the phrase “MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY,” wait several seconds for Command to acknowledge. If Command does not acknowledge continue to transmit the term “MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY,” until acknowledged by Command.
- Push the push-to-talk button, and transmit the phrase “MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY,” wait several seconds for Command to acknowledge. If Command does not acknowledge continue to transmit the term “MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY,” until acknowledged by Command.
• If the push-to-talk button is not pushed after depressing the emergency button, the emergency signal will not be received by other radios on the fireground!
• If the push-to-talk button is not pushed after depressing the emergency button, the emergency signal will not be received by other radios on the fireground!
• Pushing the orange “Emergency Activation” button give this radio priority over all other radios except the Incident Commander or the OUC. When a transmission is broadcast from the radio that has an activated “Emergency Button,” that transmission will interrupt and take over the channel.
• Pushing the orange “Emergency Activation” button give this radio priority over all other radios except the Incident Commander or the OUC. When a transmission is broadcast from the radio that has an activated “Emergency Button,” that transmission will interrupt and take over the channel.
• The acronym LUNAR should be used to give all pertinent information.
- L – Location
- U – Unit assigned
- N – Name
- A – Air status of SCBA
- R – Resources needed to mitigate emergency
• The acronym LUNAR should be used to give all pertinent information.
- L – Location
- U – Unit assigned
- N – Name
- A – Air status of SCBA
- R – Resources needed to mitigate emergency
- Command shall prompt the member in distress to activate their PASS device.
The following shall be used as a guide for handling a MAYDAY:
- Command shall acknowledge the “MAYDAY”. • Command shall gather information (LUNAR).
- Command shall develop an action plan to mitigate the “MAYDAY” with units on the scene. This is especially the case where the Rapid Intervention Group is not yet in-place.
- Command shall prompt the member in distress to activate their PASS device.
The following shall be used as a guide for handling a MAYDAY:
- Command shall acknowledge the “MAYDAY”. • Command shall gather information (LUNAR).
- Command shall develop an action plan to mitigate the “MAYDAY” with units on the scene. This is especially the case where the Rapid Intervention Group is not yet in-place.
The intent of resolving a “MAYDAY” situation is to do so quickly with the units inplace. This keeps the operation in its simplest form, limits overcrowding in the hazard zone and assures suppression efforts continue. Additionally, this will allow for greater command, control and accountability. The Incident Commander shall attempt to resolve the “MAYDAY” while still on the initial Incident Talk Group, as units switching Talk Groups in an IDLH atmosphere could add complexity and confusion to the situation.
The intent of resolving a “MAYDAY” situation is to do so quickly with the units inplace. This keeps the operation in its simplest form, limits overcrowding in the hazard zone and assures suppression efforts continue. Additionally, this will allow for greater command, control and accountability. The Incident Commander shall attempt to resolve the “MAYDAY” while still on the initial Incident Talk Group, as units switching Talk Groups in an IDLH atmosphere could add complexity and confusion to the situation.
If the “MAYDAY” can’t be mitigated immediately by units in close proximity to the member in distress, Command shall proceed with the full “MAYDAY” procedure:
- Command shall notify the OUC of the “MAYDAY” declaration.
- The OUC shall dispatch the next multiple alarm with a Rescue Squad. If a second alarm has already been requested, the OUC shall confirm with Command prior to dispatching additional units (3rd Alarm or greater). If no Rescue Squad is available an additional Truck Company shall be assigned.
If the “MAYDAY” can’t be mitigated immediately by units in close proximity to the member in distress, Command shall proceed with the full “MAYDAY” procedure:
- Command shall notify the OUC of the “MAYDAY” declaration.
- The OUC shall dispatch the next multiple alarm with a Rescue Squad. If a second alarm has already been requested, the OUC shall confirm with Command prior to dispatching additional units (3rd Alarm or greater). If no Rescue Squad is available an additional Truck Company shall be assigned.
- Command shall order all radio traffic to cease except EMERGENCY TRAFFIC.
- The Talk Group that the person declares the MAYDAY on shall be the MAYDAY BRANCH Talk Group. (This may be any Talk Group due to confusion, etc)
- Command shall order all radio traffic to cease except EMERGENCY TRAFFIC.
- The Talk Group that the person declares the MAYDAY on shall be the MAYDAY BRANCH Talk Group. (This may be any Talk Group due to confusion, etc)
- Command shall switch all units, with the exception of Units assigned to the MAYDAY GROUP or MAYDAY BRANCH, off of the Talk Group.
- Command shall assign the MAYDAY GROUP Supervisor and the MAYDAY BRANCH Director.
- Command shall verify that the additional alarm with an additional Rescue Squad has been dispatched.
- Command shall switch all units, with the exception of Units assigned to the MAYDAY GROUP or MAYDAY BRANCH, off of the Talk Group.
- Command shall assign the MAYDAY GROUP Supervisor and the MAYDAY BRANCH Director.
- Command shall verify that the additional alarm with an additional Rescue Squad has been dispatched.
- Command shall coordinate the activities on the fireground and the MAYDAY BRANCH to ensure the most efficient use of available resources to resolve the “MAYDAY”.
- Command shall announce on all Talk Groups being utilized for the incident when the “MAYDAY” has been resolved.
- Command shall coordinate the activities on the fireground and the MAYDAY BRANCH to ensure the most efficient use of available resources to resolve the “MAYDAY”.
- Command shall announce on all Talk Groups being utilized for the incident when the “MAYDAY” has been resolved.
MAYDAY is to notify Command (and other units on the scene) that firefighter(s) or crews are lost, missing or trapped.
MAYDAY is to notify Command (and other units on the scene) that firefighter(s) or crews are lost, missing or trapped.
PRIORITY is to transmit an urgent message to Command that does NOT involve trapped or missing personnel.
PRIORITY is to transmit an urgent message to Command that does NOT involve trapped or missing personnel.
10-33 is a coded message to inform the OUC that immediate police assistance is needed.
10-33 is a coded message to inform the OUC that immediate police assistance is needed.
COLLAPSE ZONE
This area shall be determined by establishing a perimeter at a distance from the building that is equal to at least 1 ½ times the height of the structure. A safety message shall be transmitted on the Incident Talk Group declaring that a Collapse Zone has been established and the perimeter defined. In addition, the Collapse Zone should be marked with yellow barrier tape by the Safety Officer or a designee.
COLLAPSE ZONE
This area shall be determined by establishing a perimeter at a distance from the building that is equal to at least 1 ½ times the height of the structure. A safety message shall be transmitted on the Incident Talk Group declaring that a Collapse Zone has been established and the perimeter defined. In addition, the Collapse Zone should be marked with yellow barrier tape by the Safety Officer or a designee.
The Incident Commander shall assure that a Collapse Zone is established on any incident where a defensive strategy has been declared.
The Incident Commander shall assure that a Collapse Zone is established on any incident where a defensive strategy has been declared.
Heavy-duty devices and exterior hand lines should NOT be operating at the same time unless the hand line is operating in an area that the heavy-duty devices cannot reach, and the crew on the hand line is not endangered by the larger stream.
Heavy-duty devices and exterior hand lines should NOT be operating at the same time unless the hand line is operating in an area that the heavy-duty devices cannot reach, and the crew on the hand line is not endangered by the larger stream.
Group and Division Supervisors are responsible for conducting a roll call and for confirming that all Companies are out of the building before Command allows the use of heavy-duty devices. Command must coordinate the evacuation or sheltering of personnel with the Companies providing the master streams. The only exceptions are when using the Fallback Position to shelter Companies (operating in a fire-resistive or noncombustible building) and when “flanking” operations are warranted.
Group and Division Supervisors are responsible for conducting a roll call and for confirming that all Companies are out of the building before Command allows the use of heavy-duty devices. Command must coordinate the evacuation or sheltering of personnel with the Companies providing the master streams. The only exceptions are when using the Fallback Position to shelter Companies (operating in a fire-resistive or noncombustible building) and when “flanking” operations are warranted.
Staging In-Line of Approach
Staging in-line of approach will be utilized to stage designated units in an uncommitted position outside of a potential hazard area
Staging In-Line of Approach
Staging in-line of approach will be utilized to stage designated units in an uncommitted position outside of a potential hazard area
Units Directed to Stage In-Line of Approach
Units will stop two (2) blocks away from the reported incident location, without committing to the block.
Units will remain flexible, so they may respond to any area of the incident as directed.
Units Directed to Stage In-Line of Approach
Units will stop two (2) blocks away from the reported incident location, without committing to the block.
Units will remain flexible, so they may respond to any area of the incident as directed.
LEVEL 1 STAGING
In order for Level I staging to be utilized, company officers must give complete and accurate initial size-up reports and progress reports as they acquire information. Initial size-up reports of an odor of food, trash outside of a building, or fire out on arrival are examples of situations where the Incident Commander may utilize Level I staging. All companies shall take their assigned apparatus position according to normal SOGs. The personnel assigned to the 1st and 2nd due engine companies and the 1st due truck company will enter the building and perform their assigned duties.
LEVEL 1 STAGING
In order for Level I staging to be utilized, company officers must give complete and accurate initial size-up reports and progress reports as they acquire information. Initial size-up reports of an odor of food, trash outside of a building, or fire out on arrival are examples of situations where the Incident Commander may utilize Level I staging. All companies shall take their assigned apparatus position according to normal SOGs. The personnel assigned to the 1st and 2nd due engine companies and the 1st due truck company will enter the building and perform their assigned duties.
If the Incident Commander orders Level I staging, all other responding units will perform the following procedures.
- Slow their response.
- Take their assigned apparatus position.
- Engine companies will complete the 1st or 2nd due engine company layouts if necessary.
- Personnel will remain with their apparatus at their assigned position and be prepared to be deployed when ordered.
- Continue to monitor the tactical channel.
- Units will be directed by Ops.
If the Incident Commander orders Level I staging, all other responding units will perform the following procedures.
- Slow their response.
- Take their assigned apparatus position.
- Engine companies will complete the 1st or 2nd due engine company layouts if necessary.
- Personnel will remain with their apparatus at their assigned position and be prepared to be deployed when ordered.
- Continue to monitor the tactical channel.
- Units will be directed by Ops.
Unless companies are advised that Level I staging is in effect, it is imperative that companies perform their duties as described in the SOGs.
Unless companies are advised that Level I staging is in effect, it is imperative that companies perform their duties as described in the SOGs.
LEVEL II STAGING
The Office of Unified Communications will direct companies to respond on the Staging Talk Group that has been designated by the Incident Commander. Command will designate a staging area where companies are to report. Companies arriving at the staging area will notify Command by radio of their arrival at the staging area on the Staging Talk Group, and will await instructions. While enroute and in the staging area, Company Officers shall also monitor the assigned Incident Talk Group. This will provide companies and their members with situational awareness as the incident progresses.
LEVEL II STAGING
The Office of Unified Communications will direct companies to respond on the Staging Talk Group that has been designated by the Incident Commander. Command will designate a staging area where companies are to report. Companies arriving at the staging area will notify Command by radio of their arrival at the staging area on the Staging Talk Group, and will await instructions. While enroute and in the staging area, Company Officers shall also monitor the assigned Incident Talk Group. This will provide companies and their members with situational awareness as the incident progresses.
LEVEL III STAGING
Level III Staging is the designation of a formal staging area, under the direction of a Staging Manager.
- Command will notify the OUC that Level III Staging is in effect.
- Command will designate a staging area on Talk Group Zero-2.
- Command will assign a Staging Manager.
- The OUC will notify additional units of the assigned Staging Talk Group and location of the Staging Area.
- Companies responding to the Staging Area will respond on the Staging Talk Group.
- Companies in Staging shall monitor the Incident Talk Group and the Staging Talk Group.
- Companies arriving at the Staging Area will make no radio transmissions. Officers of Companies dispatched to the Staging Area will report in person to the Staging Manager.
LEVEL III STAGING
Level III Staging is the designation of a formal staging area, under the direction of a Staging Manager.
- Command will notify the OUC that Level III Staging is in effect.
- Command will designate a staging area on Talk Group Zero-2.
- Command will assign a Staging Manager.
- The OUC will notify additional units of the assigned Staging Talk Group and location of the Staging Area.
- Companies responding to the Staging Area will respond on the Staging Talk Group.
- Companies in Staging shall monitor the Incident Talk Group and the Staging Talk Group.
- Companies arriving at the Staging Area will make no radio transmissions. Officers of Companies dispatched to the Staging Area will report in person to the Staging Manager.
- The Staging Area will be organized to allow easy entry and exit by Companies passing through.
- Similar units will be organized together to allow free passage of each type of unit.
- The Staging Area will be organized to allow easy entry and exit by Companies passing through.
- Similar units will be organized together to allow free passage of each type of unit.
INTERIOR PERSONNEL AND EQUIPMENT STAGING
Units can be ordered to stage at a specific location in a building.
- Interior staging on a high-rise incident will be at least three floors below the fire floor.
- Interior staging on a major building may be in a separate wing or in any location protected from the incident conditions.
- Interior staging should be limited to fire resistant (Type I) and non-combustible (Type II) building types.
Units can be ordered to stage at a specific location in a building.
- Interior staging on a high-rise incident will be at least three floors below the fire floor.
- Interior staging on a major building may be in a separate wing or in any location protected from the incident conditions.
- Interior staging should be limited to fire resistant (Type I) and non-combustible (Type II) building types.
SIZE-UP
Size-up is the exchange of information that helps to depict an image of the unfolding event. Included in the size-up report is the pertinent information that conveys the physical size of the incident, the magnitude of the incident, and the nature of the emergency.
SIZE-UP
Size-up is the exchange of information that helps to depict an image of the unfolding event. Included in the size-up report is the pertinent information that conveys the physical size of the incident, the magnitude of the incident, and the nature of the emergency.
Size-up can be divided into following categories: Exterior, Interior, and C.A.N. (Conditions, Actions, Needs) reports.
Size-up can be divided into following categories: Exterior, Interior, and C.A.N. (Conditions, Actions, Needs) reports.
EXTERIOR SIZE-UP
The report of conditions on arrival is the on-scene size-up. It is designed to give descriptive information to all responding units. It is important that this information be correct and concise.
EXTERIOR SIZE-UP
The report of conditions on arrival is the on-scene size-up. It is designed to give descriptive information to all responding units. It is important that this information be correct and concise.
- Unit Name
- Corrected address (if different than initially reported)
- Side of Building
- Building Height
- Building Occupancy
- Configuration
- Type of Construction
- Dimensions (if unusual)
- Condition on Arrival
- Critical Information
- Structural Emergencies
- Special Hazards
- Lightweight Construction
- Announce the strategy when defensive on arrival
- Request for Additional Resources
- Establish Command if 1st arriving Company Officer
- Unit Name
- Corrected address (if different than initially reported)
- Side of Building
- Building Height
- Building Occupancy
- Configuration
- Type of Construction
- Dimensions (if unusual)
- Condition on Arrival
- Critical Information
- Structural Emergencies
- Special Hazards
- Lightweight Construction
- Announce the strategy when defensive on arrival
- Request for Additional Resources
- Establish Command if 1st arriving Company Officer
Side of Building – Most likely the side of the building (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta) that the company has positioned their apparatus. If the building is not of a standard configuration, the first arriving company shall designate the A-Alpha side.
Side of Building – Most likely the side of the building (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta) that the company has positioned their apparatus. If the building is not of a standard configuration, the first arriving company shall designate the A-Alpha side.
Building Height – on the reporting side of the building shall be given in stories.
- Stories – Is the number of levels above the ground.
- Floor – Designated number, consistent with that living space.
Building Height – on the reporting side of the building shall be given in stories.
- Stories – Is the number of levels above the ground.
- Floor – Designated number, consistent with that living space.
Building Occupancy describes what the building is being used for as the main occupancy, according to the International Building Code, Chapter 3:
- Residential
- Commercial (Business)
- Mixed Occupancy
- Mercantile
- Industrial
- Educational
- Assembly
- Day Care
- Institutional
- Correctional
- Storage
Building Occupancy describes what the building is being used for as the main occupancy, according to the International Building Code, Chapter 3:
- Residential
- Commercial (Business)
- Mixed Occupancy
- Mercantile
- Industrial
- Educational
- Assembly
- Day Care
- Institutional
- Correctional
- Storage
Configuration is the structural design of the building:
- Detached
- Semi-Detached
- Row
- High-Rise
- Apartment House
- Garden Apartment
- Warehouse
Configuration is the structural design of the building:
- Detached
- Semi-Detached
- Row
- High-Rise
- Apartment House
- Garden Apartment
- Warehouse
Type of Construction is the general classification of construction type:
- Fire Resistive
- Non-Combustible
- Ordinary
- Heavy Timber
- Wood Frame
- Hybrid (Mixed use of two or more construction types in one building)
Type of Construction is the general classification of construction type:
- Fire Resistive
- Non-Combustible
- Ordinary
- Heavy Timber
- Wood Frame
- Hybrid (Mixed use of two or more construction types in one building)
Dimensions – (if unusual) shall be given for buildings that are very large such as a warehouse. The dimensions are an estimate of the outside perimeter and shall be given in feet (example: 500 feet by 200 feet).
Dimensions – (if unusual) shall be given for buildings that are very large such as a warehouse. The dimensions are an estimate of the outside perimeter and shall be given in feet (example: 500 feet by 200 feet).
Condition on Arrival – shall be a general description of what is observed on arrival. The following are examples:
- Nothing evident
- Light smoke showing from the 1st floor, quadrant A
- Fire showing from the 3rd floor, quadrant A
Condition on Arrival – shall be a general description of what is observed on arrival. The following are examples:
- Nothing evident
- Light smoke showing from the 1st floor, quadrant A
- Fire showing from the 3rd floor, quadrant A
Critical Information – shall be any information that might be relevant to the mitigation of the emergency. The following are examples:
- Pre-Incident Plan information.
- The building is being evacuated.
- Two people hanging out the windows on the 5th floor, quadrant D.
- Restricted apparatus access, such as a construction fence, etc.
- Exposure Issues
Critical Information – shall be any information that might be relevant to the mitigation of the emergency. The following are examples:
- Pre-Incident Plan information.
- The building is being evacuated.
- Two people hanging out the windows on the 5th floor, quadrant D.
- Restricted apparatus access, such as a construction fence, etc.
- Exposure Issues
Offensive Strategy – An incident where members will be operating (in full PPE/SCBA) inside of a structure with an IDLH atmosphere present.
Offensive Strategy – An incident where members will be operating (in full PPE/SCBA) inside of a structure with an IDLH atmosphere present.
Defensive Strategy – An incident where operations are limited to the exterior of a structure and outside of the established collapse zone.
Defensive Strategy – An incident where operations are limited to the exterior of a structure and outside of the established collapse zone.
Investigation Mode – An incident where no IDLH atmosphere is present and requires further investigation, prior to deploying additional resources. This shall include level I staging.
Investigation Mode – An incident where no IDLH atmosphere is present and requires further investigation, prior to deploying additional resources. This shall include level I staging.
Request Additional Resources if the emergency exceeds the capabilities of the dispatched units, Command is responsible for requesting this information.
Request Additional Resources if the emergency exceeds the capabilities of the dispatched units, Command is responsible for requesting this information.
The following are examples of requests/recommendations for assistance:
- Special needed units
- Fill the Local Alarm assignment
- Fill the Box Alarm assignment
- Box Alarm
- Working Fire Dispatch
- 2nd Alarm
- Additional Alarm
- Hazardous Materials Box/Local Alarm
- Collapse Assignment
- Foam Unit Task Force
- Metro Station or Tunnel Box Alarm
The following are examples of requests/recommendations for assistance:
- Special needed units
- Fill the Local Alarm assignment
- Fill the Box Alarm assignment
- Box Alarm
- Working Fire Dispatch
- 2nd Alarm
- Additional Alarm
- Hazardous Materials Box/Local Alarm
- Collapse Assignment
- Foam Unit Task Force
- Metro Station or Tunnel Box Alarm
INTERIOR SIZE-UP
The conditions inside the structure could be very different from those that may be seen from the exterior. The first units entering the structure shall give the conditions as they move about the building. Units shall give reports at the following locations:
- Inside the front or rear door.
- On the fire floor.
- Arrival at reported location.
- Any other location that adds to the description of the incident.
INTERIOR SIZE-UP
The conditions inside the structure could be very different from those that may be seen from the exterior. The first units entering the structure shall give the conditions as they move about the building. Units shall give reports at the following locations:
- Inside the front or rear door.
- On the fire floor.
- Arrival at reported location.
- Any other location that adds to the description of the incident.
When responding to larger buildings, more interior size-ups would be given as the
Company travels to the reported location. An example of the first arriving Company Officer’s (Command) interior size-up checklist for a reported fire in apartment 801 of an apartment building would be the following:
- Lobby condition “Lobby clear.”
- Annunciator Status “Annunciator Panel shows smoke detector activation, 8th floor”
- Stairwell condition “People are evacuating.”
- Identify the stairwell that will be used for the Fire Attack, Evacuation and Ventilation by the number and/or location in the building.
- 8th floor hallway condition “8th Floor hallway filled with black smoke.” • Condition found at the door of apartment 801 “Believe to have a fire in apartment 801.”
- Condition found inside apartment 801 “The apartment is fully involved.”
When responding to larger buildings, more interior size-ups would be given as the
Company travels to the reported location. An example of the first arriving Company Officer’s (Command) interior size-up checklist for a reported fire in apartment 801 of an apartment building would be the following:
- Lobby condition “Lobby clear.”
- Annunciator Status “Annunciator Panel shows smoke detector activation, 8th floor”
- Stairwell condition “People are evacuating.”
- Identify the stairwell that will be used for the Fire Attack, Evacuation and Ventilation by the number and/or location in the building.
- 8th floor hallway condition “8th Floor hallway filled with black smoke.” • Condition found at the door of apartment 801 “Believe to have a fire in apartment 801.”
- Condition found inside apartment 801 “The apartment is fully involved.”
PROGRESS AND C.A.N. REPORTS
The fire ground and the scenes of other emergencies are very fluid and constantly changing. The changing conditions will dictate the strategic plan and the tactical operations of our units. The accurate and frequent updating or status reports keeps all personnel informed for safer operations. This shall be accomplished by providing C.A.N. (Conditions, Actions, Needs) Reports.
PROGRESS AND C.A.N. REPORTS
The fire ground and the scenes of other emergencies are very fluid and constantly changing. The changing conditions will dictate the strategic plan and the tactical operations of our units. The accurate and frequent updating or status reports keeps all personnel informed for safer operations. This shall be accomplished by providing C.A.N. (Conditions, Actions, Needs) Reports.
Conditions
- Location
- Obstacles
- Smoke conditions
- Visibility
- Fire conditions
- Heat conditions
- Update or change in initial building construction size-up (lightweight, etc.)
- Interior layout
- Changes to structural integrity
- Fire separation • Fuel loads
- What’s burning
- What’s not burning
Conditions
- Location
- Obstacles
- Smoke conditions
- Visibility
- Fire conditions
- Heat conditions
- Update or change in initial building construction size-up (lightweight, etc.)
- Interior layout
- Changes to structural integrity
- Fire separation • Fuel loads
- What’s burning
- What’s not burning
Actions
- Search progress
- Fire control progress
- Inability to locate the fire
- Checking for extension
- Access to concealed spaces
- All clear
- Under control
- Accountability
Actions
- Search progress
- Fire control progress
- Inability to locate the fire
- Checking for extension
- Access to concealed spaces
- All clear
- Under control
- Accountability
Needs
- Reinforcement
- Relief
- Change of strategy (Offensive to Defensive/Defensive to Offensive)
- Support work
- Tools or equipment
- Coverage for other areas/exposures
- Urgent assistance
Needs
- Reinforcement
- Relief
- Change of strategy (Offensive to Defensive/Defensive to Offensive)
- Support work
- Tools or equipment
- Coverage for other areas/exposures
- Urgent assistance
4.1 INCIDENT MANAGEMENT AND COMMAThe Incident Command System (ICS) shall be utilized on ALL responses. The ICS is designed to function on the smallest to the largest incidents. On any scene on which DC Fire & EMS Department personnel are operating, there will always be a ranking Officer of the Department in charge or in Command. ND
The Incident Command System (ICS) shall be utilized on ALL responses. The ICS is designed to function on the smallest to the largest incidents. On any scene on which DC Fire & EMS Department personnel are operating, there will always be a ranking Officer of the Department in charge or in Command.
Every incident is made up of its own unique set of factors. These different factors fall into 8 standard categories listed below.
Building
- Size, area and height
- Construction type
- Age and condition
- Use/type (strip mall, row house, commercial, etc.)
- Compartmentation along with horizontal and vertical openings
- Interior layout/arrangement
- Outside openings – doors & windows
Every incident is made up of its own unique set of factors. These different factors fall into 8 standard categories listed below.
Building
- Size, area and height
- Construction type
- Age and condition
- Use/type (strip mall, row house, commercial, etc.)
- Compartmentation along with horizontal and vertical openings
- Interior layout/arrangement
- Outside openings – doors & windows
The term “Incident Commander” shall refer to the person that has command (Company or Chief Officer) of the incident. The initial Incident Commander shall remain in command of the incident until command has been assumed, transferred or the incident is stabilized and command is terminated.
The term “Incident Commander” shall refer to the person that has command (Company or Chief Officer) of the incident. The initial Incident Commander shall remain in command of the incident until command has been assumed, transferred or the incident is stabilized and command is terminated.
- Concealed spaces – balloon construction, knee walls, attics & cocklofts • Basements
- Effect the fire has had on the building, percent involvement versus savable property.
- Concealed spaces – balloon construction, knee walls, attics & cocklofts • Basements
- Effect the fire has had on the building, percent involvement versus savable property.
Fire
- Size, extent, nature & location
- Stage – incipient to free burning
- Direction of travel
- Type of fuel on fire
- Intensity of the products of combustion
- Ability to operate directly on the fire
Fire
- Size, extent, nature & location
- Stage – incipient to free burning
- Direction of travel
- Type of fuel on fire
- Intensity of the products of combustion
- Ability to operate directly on the fire
Occupancy
- Specific occupancy type (public assembly, residential, industrial, etc.)
- Fire load/contents (based on the occupancy type)
- Status (open, closed, occupied, vacant, abandoned, under construction)
- Time as it effects occupancy use
Occupancy
- Specific occupancy type (public assembly, residential, industrial, etc.)
- Fire load/contents (based on the occupancy type)
- Status (open, closed, occupied, vacant, abandoned, under construction)
- Time as it effects occupancy use
Life Hazard
- Location of the occupants in relation to the fire
- Number of occupants
- Condition of the occupants (by virtue of fire exposure)
- Physical capacities of occupants (care facility versus high school)
- Access rescue forces have to victims
Life Hazard
- Location of the occupants in relation to the fire
- Number of occupants
- Condition of the occupants (by virtue of fire exposure)
- Physical capacities of occupants (care facility versus high school)
- Access rescue forces have to victims
Arrangement
- Access, arrangement and distance of exposures
- Most likely direction or avenue of fire spread
- Capability/limitations on apparatus movement and use
- Combustibility of exposures
Arrangement
- Access, arrangement and distance of exposures
- Most likely direction or avenue of fire spread
- Capability/limitations on apparatus movement and use
- Combustibility of exposures
Resources
- Staffing and equipment on scene
- Staffing and equipment responding and in reserve
- Water supply – hydrants and/or other sources
- Built in fire protection
Resources
- Staffing and equipment on scene
- Staffing and equipment responding and in reserve
- Water supply – hydrants and/or other sources
- Built in fire protection
Action
- Effect current action is having
- Tasks that need to be completed
- Stage of the operation and status: from under control to out of control
Action
- Effect current action is having
- Tasks that need to be completed
- Stage of the operation and status: from under control to out of control
Special Circumstances
- Time of day/night
- Day of week
- Season
- Weather (wind, rain, snow, fog, etc.)
- Social unrests (riots, terrorism, crime, etc.)
Special Circumstances
- Time of day/night
- Day of week
- Season
- Weather (wind, rain, snow, fog, etc.)
- Social unrests (riots, terrorism, crime, etc.)
The Incident Commander shall consider that each incident can be divided into 8 specific areas or functions from start to finish.
- Assume, Confirm and Position Command
- Size-Up
- Communications
- Deployment
- Strategy and Incident Action Planning
- Organization
- Review, Evaluation and Revision
- Continue, Transfer and Terminate Command
The Incident Commander shall consider that each incident can be divided into 8 specific areas or functions from start to finish.
- Assume, Confirm and Position Command
- Size-Up
- Communications
- Deployment
- Strategy and Incident Action Planning
- Organization
- Review, Evaluation and Revision
- Continue, Transfer and Terminate Command
RISK MANAGEMENT PLAN AND PRINCIPLES
All Incident Commanders and Company Officers shall utilize the Risk Management principals when formulating their incident action plan (IAP) and making critical incident decisions. These principals are derived from NFPA Standard 1561 and include the following:
RISK MANAGEMENT PLAN AND PRINCIPLES
All Incident Commanders and Company Officers shall utilize the Risk Management principals when formulating their incident action plan (IAP) and making critical incident decisions. These principals are derived from NFPA Standard 1561 and include the following:
- Activities that present a significant risk to the safety of responders shall be limited to situations that have the potential to save endangered lives. (Risk a lot to save a lot in a calculated and coordinated fashion.)
- Activities that are routinely employed to protect property shall be recognized as inherent risks to the safety of responders, and actions shall be taken to reduce or avoid these risks. (Take some risks to protect property in a calculated and coordinated fashion.)
• No risk to the safety of responders shall be acceptable where there is no possibility to save life or property. (Take no risks for that which is already lost.)
- Activities that present a significant risk to the safety of responders shall be limited to situations that have the potential to save endangered lives. (Risk a lot to save a lot in a calculated and coordinated fashion.)
- Activities that are routinely employed to protect property shall be recognized as inherent risks to the safety of responders, and actions shall be taken to reduce or avoid these risks. (Take some risks to protect property in a calculated and coordinated fashion.)
• No risk to the safety of responders shall be acceptable where there is no possibility to save life or property. (Take no risks for that which is already lost.)
4.3 ESTABLISHING/ASSUMING/TRANSFERING COMMAND
4.3 ESTABLISHING/ASSUMING/TRANSFERING COMMAND
. On all multi-unit incidents with a responding Battalion Fire Chief, the first arriving Company Officer will establish command on the Incident Talk Group. After dispatch and prior to the arrival of first arriving unit, the first due Battalion Fire Chief is responsible for the organization of the incident. Once the first arriving Company Officer has established command, he/she will be responsible for giving orders to companies as the incident dictates.
. On all multi-unit incidents with a responding Battalion Fire Chief, the first arriving Company Officer will establish command on the Incident Talk Group. After dispatch and prior to the arrival of first arriving unit, the first due Battalion Fire Chief is responsible for the organization of the incident. Once the first arriving Company Officer has established command, he/she will be responsible for giving orders to companies as the incident dictates.
Response Order and Discipline
The first due Battalion Fire Chief shall be responsible for controlling the response order. This includes granting permission to units bidding on an assignment, prior to and after the establishment of Command.
Response Order and Discipline
The first due Battalion Fire Chief shall be responsible for controlling the response order. This includes granting permission to units bidding on an assignment, prior to and after the establishment of Command.
Any units on an alarm that arrive out of response order must contact the first due Battalion Fire Chief and receive approval prior to assuming the requested responsibilities. The following process shall be adhered to when requesting response order changes:
Any units on an alarm that arrive out of response order must contact the first due Battalion Fire Chief and receive approval prior to assuming the requested responsibilities. The following process shall be adhered to when requesting response order changes:
- Contact the first due Battalion Fire Chief via the Incident Talk Group.
- Give unit designation, positon originally due, location and position desired.
- Await approval from the first due Battalion Fire Chief.
- If permission to change position is granted, assume those responsibilities.
- If permission is granted to assume a first arriving positon, shall establish Command as outlined in the Standard Operational Guidelines.
- Contact the first due Battalion Fire Chief via the Incident Talk Group.
- Give unit designation, positon originally due, location and position desired.
- Await approval from the first due Battalion Fire Chief.
- If permission to change position is granted, assume those responsibilities.
- If permission is granted to assume a first arriving positon, shall establish Command as outlined in the Standard Operational Guidelines.
Incidents that do not initially have an assigned Battalion Fire Chief, but escalate due to conditions encountered will require the first arriving Company Officer to establish Command, request additional resources and an Incident Talk Group.
Incidents that do not initially have an assigned Battalion Fire Chief, but escalate due to conditions encountered will require the first arriving Company Officer to establish Command, request additional resources and an Incident Talk Group.
The first Company Officer to arrive at the scene of a multiple unit response with a Battalion Fire Chief assigned will provide a complete size-up and establish command on the Incident Talk Group. The initial incident commander remains in command until command is transferred or the incident is stabilized and command is terminated.
The first Company Officer to arrive at the scene of a multiple unit response with a Battalion Fire Chief assigned will provide a complete size-up and establish command on the Incident Talk Group. The initial incident commander remains in command until command is transferred or the incident is stabilized and command is terminated.
As opposed to the previous Standard Operating Guidelines, the radio designation of “Operations” shall only be utilized when Command has determined that the incident has expanded and there is a need for the establishment of that section. An example would be upon arrival of the Deputy Fire Chief, he/she assumes Command and designates the first due Battalion Fire Chief as “Operations”.
As opposed to the previous Standard Operating Guidelines, the radio designation of “Operations” shall only be utilized when Command has determined that the incident has expanded and there is a need for the establishment of that section. An example would be upon arrival of the Deputy Fire Chief, he/she assumes Command and designates the first due Battalion Fire Chief as “Operations”.
Tactical Command (Mobile) – The first arriving Company Officer shall establish command during an offensive operation where they have determined that their direct involvement is required (fire control, search, rescue and crew safety). The Company Officer shall give an initial radio report and establish Command.
Tactical Command (Mobile) – The first arriving Company Officer shall establish command during an offensive operation where they have determined that their direct involvement is required (fire control, search, rescue and crew safety). The Company Officer shall give an initial radio report and establish Command.
While operating in Tactical Command mode, all additional responding companies shall follow the Standard Operating Guidelines unless otherwise ordered. This Command mode shall continue until the first due Battalion Fire Chief has arrived and the transfer of command is completed. The Tactical Command mode should not last more than a few minutes and will end with one of the following:
- The situation is stabilized; or
- Command is transferred; or
- Change from Tactical Command to a Strategic Command Post
While operating in Tactical Command mode, all additional responding companies shall follow the Standard Operating Guidelines unless otherwise ordered. This Command mode shall continue until the first due Battalion Fire Chief has arrived and the transfer of command is completed. The Tactical Command mode should not last more than a few minutes and will end with one of the following:
- The situation is stabilized; or
- Command is transferred; or
- Change from Tactical Command to a Strategic Command Post
Strategic Command (Stationary) – Certain incidents, by virtue of their size, complexity, or potential for rapid expansion, demand early, strong, stationary command from the outset. In these cases, the first arriving Company Officer will establish a stationary command post and, from the very beginning, stay in an exterior position, out of the hazard zone.
Strategic Command (Stationary) – Certain incidents, by virtue of their size, complexity, or potential for rapid expansion, demand early, strong, stationary command from the outset. In these cases, the first arriving Company Officer will establish a stationary command post and, from the very beginning, stay in an exterior position, out of the hazard zone.
Transfer of Command
1. The first arriving company officer will establish command.
- The first due Battalion Fire Chief will assume command of the incident by following the transfer of command procedures:
a. Shall assume command by radio when units are operating in the Tactical Command mode, communicate by radio with the company officer that has Command, receive a situation report and then assume command and establish a stationary command post.
Transfer of Command
1. The first arriving company officer will establish command.
- The first due Battalion Fire Chief will assume command of the incident by following the transfer of command procedures:
a. Shall assume command by radio when units are operating in the Tactical Command mode, communicate by radio with the company officer that has Command, receive a situation report and then assume command and establish a stationary command post.
Command Post Options
Battalion Fire Chief’s Buggy – Initial stationary Command Post, utilized on a majority of incidents.
Deputy Fire Chief’s Buggy – Larger expanding incidents that require the
Operations Section Chief to focus on members operating in the IDLH atmosphere. (This shall be separate from the Battalion Fire Chief (Operations Section Chief) in close proximity to each other’s vehicles.)
Mobile Command Unit – Prolonged and/or complex incidents that require a Unified Command model.
Command Post Options
Battalion Fire Chief’s Buggy – Initial stationary Command Post, utilized on a majority of incidents.
Deputy Fire Chief’s Buggy – Larger expanding incidents that require the
Operations Section Chief to focus on members operating in the IDLH atmosphere. (This shall be separate from the Battalion Fire Chief (Operations Section Chief) in close proximity to each other’s vehicles.)
Mobile Command Unit – Prolonged and/or complex incidents that require a Unified Command model.
• Unit accountability and location conducted informally at not more than 10 minutes into the incident and formally at 20-minute intervals during the incident.
• Unit accountability and location conducted informally at not more than 10 minutes into the incident and formally at 20-minute intervals during the incident.
Response with No Fire Evident
First arriving Company Officer –“Engine 34 is on the scene with a corrected address of 1234 Main Street, NW, with a two-story, detached, single-family house, ordinary construction, 20 x 40, with nothing evident from the A-Alpha side. Engine 34 is establishing the “Main Street” Command.”
Response with No Fire Evident
First arriving Company Officer –“Engine 34 is on the scene with a corrected address of 1234 Main Street, NW, with a two-story, detached, single-family house, ordinary construction, 20 x 40, with nothing evident from the A-Alpha side. Engine 34 is establishing the “Main Street” Command.”
First arriving Company Officer (Incident Commander) – “Main Street Command to units responding, the “360” has been completed, there is nothing evident on all sides of the address. Basement access is on the D-Delta side. Units are to Level 1 stage.
First arriving Company Officer (Incident Commander) – “Main Street Command to units responding, the “360” has been completed, there is nothing evident on all sides of the address. Basement access is on the D-Delta side. Units are to Level 1 stage.
Offensive Operation
First arriving Company Officer – “Engine 34 is on the scene with a corrected address of 1234 Main Street, NW, with a two-story, detached, single-family house, ordinary construction, 20 x 40, with fire showing from the second floor, AAlpha quadrant. Engine 34 is establishing the “Main Street” Command. Transmit the Working Fire Dispatch.”
Offensive Operation
First arriving Company Officer – “Engine 34 is on the scene with a corrected address of 1234 Main Street, NW, with a two-story, detached, single-family house, ordinary construction, 20 x 40, with fire showing from the second floor, AAlpha quadrant. Engine 34 is establishing the “Main Street” Command. Transmit the Working Fire Dispatch.”
First arriving Company Officer (Incident Commander) – “Main Street Command to units responding, the “360” has been completed, there is fire showing from the second floor on the A-Alpha and B-Bravo sides, also smoke showing from the second floor and roof area on all sides. Basement access is on the D-Delta side. I need Truck 18 (first due) to open the roof over the A-Alpha Quadrant. (Engine 34 continues to stretch their attack line to the fire, provide
C.A.N. reports, request additional actions outside of the Standard Operating Guidelines and attacks the fire)
First arriving Company Officer (Incident Commander) – “Main Street Command to units responding, the “360” has been completed, there is fire showing from the second floor on the A-Alpha and B-Bravo sides, also smoke showing from the second floor and roof area on all sides. Basement access is on the D-Delta side. I need Truck 18 (first due) to open the roof over the A-Alpha Quadrant. (Engine 34 continues to stretch their attack line to the fire, provide
C.A.N. reports, request additional actions outside of the Standard Operating Guidelines and attacks the fire)
Defensive Operation
First arriving Company Officer – “Engine 34 is on the scene with a corrected address of 1234 Main Street, NW, on the A-Alpha side of a two-story, middle of the row house, ordinary construction, 20 x 40, with heavy fire showing from all floors and through the roof. Engine 34 will be establishing the “Main Street” Command; the command post is located on Side A at the rear of Engine34, transmit the Working Fire Dispatch and a Second Alarm.”
“Command to the units responding, this will be a defensive fire. Company Officers are to establish and remain clear of the collapse zone.”
Defensive Operation
First arriving Company Officer – “Engine 34 is on the scene with a corrected address of 1234 Main Street, NW, on the A-Alpha side of a two-story, middle of the row house, ordinary construction, 20 x 40, with heavy fire showing from all floors and through the roof. Engine 34 will be establishing the “Main Street” Command; the command post is located on Side A at the rear of Engine34, transmit the Working Fire Dispatch and a Second Alarm.”
“Command to the units responding, this will be a defensive fire. Company Officers are to establish and remain clear of the collapse zone.”
EMS or other multi-unit incidents with a Battalion Fire Chief
First arriving Company Officer – “Engine 34 is on the scene with a corrected location of North Capitol Street and Michigan Avenue. I have a four-vehicle accident with unknown injuries. Engine 34 is establishing the “North Capitol Street” Command.”
EMS or other multi-unit incidents with a Battalion Fire Chief
First arriving Company Officer – “Engine 34 is on the scene with a corrected location of North Capitol Street and Michigan Avenue. I have a four-vehicle accident with unknown injuries. Engine 34 is establishing the “North Capitol Street” Command.”
5.1 GENERAL ENGINE COMPANY RESPONSIBILITIES
The primary means of hoseline advancement shall be through a doorway. However, if it is necessary to utilize an additional means, such as through a window, over a (portable ground or aerial) ladder, a fire escape, hoisting, etc. the Company Officer shall coordinate through the Incident Commander.
5.1 GENERAL ENGINE COMPANY RESPONSIBILITIES
The primary means of hoseline advancement shall be through a doorway. However, if it is necessary to utilize an additional means, such as through a window, over a (portable ground or aerial) ladder, a fire escape, hoisting, etc. the Company Officer shall coordinate through the Incident Commander.
ASSIGNED DUTIES FOR AN ENGINE COMPANY
Company Officer
- The performance of a Company is the responsibility of the Company Officer, who shall ensure that the company operates in a safe and efficient manner.
- Shall determine the appropriate size and length hoseline (Offensive Strategy).
- Shall determine the appropriate heavy duty device(s) (Defensive Strategy).
ASSIGNED DUTIES FOR AN ENGINE COMPANY
Company Officer
- The performance of a Company is the responsibility of the Company Officer, who shall ensure that the company operates in a safe and efficient manner.
- Shall determine the appropriate size and length hoseline (Offensive Strategy).
- Shall determine the appropriate heavy duty device(s) (Defensive Strategy).
Layout Position
- Lay supply line when ordered.
- Connect hydrant valve to hydrant.
- Charge supply line when ordered.
- Report to Wagon Driver, and assist if needed.
- Assist in advancing hose line, by flaking out hose, removing kinks, and backing up the line position.
- Report to the Company Officer with additional equipment (standpipe rack, hook, etc.).
Layout Position
- Lay supply line when ordered.
- Connect hydrant valve to hydrant.
- Charge supply line when ordered.
- Report to Wagon Driver, and assist if needed.
- Assist in advancing hose line, by flaking out hose, removing kinks, and backing up the line position.
- Report to the Company Officer with additional equipment (standpipe rack, hook, etc.).
The Company Officer may take advantage of other Wagons that might be in better locations than their own, but only with the notification of the Wagon Driver of the other Company. The 3rd due Engine Company may stretch a hoseline from the 1st due Engine Company and the 4th due Engine Company from the 1st or 2nd due Engine Company.
The Company Officer may take advantage of other Wagons that might be in better locations than their own, but only with the notification of the Wagon Driver of the other Company. The 3rd due Engine Company may stretch a hoseline from the 1st due Engine Company and the 4th due Engine Company from the 1st or 2nd due Engine Company.
Engine Companies advancing a second hoseline off apparatus that is already operating an attack line must ensure that a constant water supply for the original Company is established. If the 3rd or 4th due Engine Company advances an hoseline from their respective apparatus, their primary responsibility is still to ensure that the 1st or 2nd due Engine Company’s supply line (continuous water supply) is charged prior to their (back up) hoseline.
Engine Companies advancing a second hoseline off apparatus that is already operating an attack line must ensure that a constant water supply for the original Company is established. If the 3rd or 4th due Engine Company advances an hoseline from their respective apparatus, their primary responsibility is still to ensure that the 1st or 2nd due Engine Company’s supply line (continuous water supply) is charged prior to their (back up) hoseline.
It is the responsibility of the 1st and 2nd due Engine Companies to supply buildings containing standpipe or sprinkler systems with a positive water supply. The Companies will hook up to the system and charge the systems if there are indications of fire, or when ordered. If Companies are unable to supply their assigned sprinkler or standpipe connections, Command must be notified as soon as possible. In some cases, the 3rd and 4th due Engine Companies may be in a better position to complete the charging of the buildings suppression system(s). Company Officers of these units shall notify Command when appropriate.
It is the responsibility of the 1st and 2nd due Engine Companies to supply buildings containing standpipe or sprinkler systems with a positive water supply. The Companies will hook up to the system and charge the systems if there are indications of fire, or when ordered. If Companies are unable to supply their assigned sprinkler or standpipe connections, Command must be notified as soon as possible. In some cases, the 3rd and 4th due Engine Companies may be in a better position to complete the charging of the buildings suppression system(s). Company Officers of these units shall notify Command when appropriate.
Initial attack lines will be supported by back up lines. The backup line provides protection for the initial attack crew and is an assurance of a constant water supply should the first line burst or should other problems arise. Under no circumstance should the back-up line impede the progress of the initial hoseline and crew.
Initial attack lines will be supported by back up lines. The backup line provides protection for the initial attack crew and is an assurance of a constant water supply should the first line burst or should other problems arise. Under no circumstance should the back-up line impede the progress of the initial hoseline and crew.
This can be accomplished by “backing-up” the initial hoseline from the floor-below (if fire is located on the second-floor of a single family home) or in the front yard (if fire is located on the first-floor of a single-family home). If a fire necessitates more than one hose line to operate in a specific area, Command shall give the order for a “second hoseline” to deploy and assist.
This can be accomplished by “backing-up” the initial hoseline from the floor-below (if fire is located on the second-floor of a single family home) or in the front yard (if fire is located on the first-floor of a single-family home). If a fire necessitates more than one hose line to operate in a specific area, Command shall give the order for a “second hoseline” to deploy and assist.
- The Engine Company providing a backup line will assist the initial attack crew by performing whatever tasks are needed to ensure the initial hoseline is in position and operating effectively.
- When hose lines are not advancing and conditions are deteriorating, back out.
- Never pass or operate above a fire without having assurance that the fire below is being attacked.
- Keep the interior stairs clear to allow egress for Companies operating above.
- The Engine Company providing a backup line will assist the initial attack crew by performing whatever tasks are needed to ensure the initial hoseline is in position and operating effectively.
- When hose lines are not advancing and conditions are deteriorating, back out.
- Never pass or operate above a fire without having assurance that the fire below is being attacked.
- Keep the interior stairs clear to allow egress for Companies operating above.
WATER SUPPLY
Engine Companies shall slow their response as they approach the scene in order to effectively locate a water supply. The unit shall announce over the assigned tactical channel the location from which they have laid a supply line, or if they have their own hydrant. An Engine Company must be able to connect to the hydrant with their soft sleeve (HOW MANY-feet or less?) in order to declare that they have their own hydrant.
WATER SUPPLY
Engine Companies shall slow their response as they approach the scene in order to effectively locate a water supply. The unit shall announce over the assigned tactical channel the location from which they have laid a supply line, or if they have their own hydrant. An Engine Company must be able to connect to the hydrant with their soft sleeve (40-feet or less) in order to declare that they have their own hydrant.
- “Engine __ is laying out from __________”
- “Engine __ is split laying from __________”
- “Engine __ is reverse laying from _________”
- “Engine __ has their-own hydrant at __________”
No other terminology shall be permitted.
- “Engine __ is laying out from __________”
- “Engine __ is split laying from __________”
- “Engine __ is reverse laying from _________”
- “Engine __ has their-own hydrant at __________”
No other terminology shall be permitted.
2 ½” HOSELINE OPERATIONS
Engine Companies shall maintain a 2 ½” hoseline on their apparatus as outlined in Chapter XX of the District of Columbia Fire/EMS Department Training Manual.
To ensure optimal operational readiness, the play-pipe shall have the 1” tip removed and the 1 1/8” and 1 ¼” tip in-place.
2 ½” HOSELINE OPERATIONS
Engine Companies shall maintain a 2 ½” hoseline on their apparatus as outlined in Chapter XX of the District of Columbia Fire/EMS Department Training Manual.
To ensure optimal operational readiness, the play-pipe shall have the 1” tip removed and the 1 1/8” and 1 ¼” tip in-place.
Thought shall be given to advancing one 1 ½” standpipe rack with the 2 ½” hoseline. This will allow for additional mobility once the majority of the fire has been extinguished. This task can be assigned by Command to an assisting Engine Company.
If it is necessary to deploy a 2 ½” hoseline greater than 200-feet, thought shall be given to utilizing the combination of two (2) 2 ½” hoselines or extending with a 3” supply line.
Thought shall be given to advancing one 1 ½” standpipe rack with the 2 ½” hoseline. This will allow for additional mobility once the majority of the fire has been extinguished. This task can be assigned by Command to an assisting Engine Company.
If it is necessary to deploy a 2 ½” hoseline greater than 200-feet, thought shall be given to utilizing the combination of two (2) 2 ½” hoselines or extending with a 3” supply line.
5.5 HEAVY-DUTY OPERATIONS
Incident Commanders and Company Officers shall recognize and forecast the potential for heavy-duty operations throughout any incident. This can be accomplished by evaluating fire conditions, structural integrity, building construction types and resources present (critical factors). The strategy for these types of incidents will be defensive in nature and the appropriate devices shall be selected.
5.5 HEAVY-DUTY OPERATIONS
Incident Commanders and Company Officers shall recognize and forecast the potential for heavy-duty operations throughout any incident. This can be accomplished by evaluating fire conditions, structural integrity, building construction types and resources present (critical factors). The strategy for these types of incidents will be defensive in nature and the appropriate devices shall be selected.
Engine companies shall lay dual supply lines if they suspect an incident will require heavy-duty devices. If an Engine Company secures their own hydrant or is supplying dual supply lines, a heavy hook-up shall be made. Laying dual supply lines and performing a heavy hook-up initially allows for full use of the available water supply and greater flexibility for supplying heavy-duty devices.
Engine companies shall lay dual supply lines if they suspect an incident will require heavy-duty devices. If an Engine Company secures their own hydrant or is supplying dual supply lines, a heavy hook-up shall be made. Laying dual supply lines and performing a heavy hook-up initially allows for full use of the available water supply and greater flexibility for supplying heavy-duty devices.
Group and Division Supervisors are responsible for conducting a roll call, and for confirming that all Companies are out of the building before Command may allow the use of heavy-duty devices. The only exception is when using the Fallback Position to shelter Companies operating in a fire-resistive or non-combustible building.
Group and Division Supervisors are responsible for conducting a roll call, and for confirming that all Companies are out of the building before Command may allow the use of heavy-duty devices. The only exception is when using the Fallback Position to shelter Companies operating in a fire-resistive or non-combustible building.
Heavy-Duty Hook-Up
A heavy hook-up is completed by placing the Engine Company’s soft sleeve to the steamer connection of the hydrant and two (2) 3” supply lines to the 2 ½” connections of the hydrant. If operating with a Water Supply Engine, refer to FF Ops Bulletin 11.
Heavy-Duty Hook-Up
A heavy hook-up is completed by placing the Engine Company’s soft sleeve to the steamer connection of the hydrant and two (2) 3” supply lines to the 2 ½” connections of the hydrant. If operating with a Water Supply Engine, refer to FF Ops Bulletin 11.
Heavy-Duty Devices
A heavy-duty device is defined as any hoseline or appliance capable of flowing 325 gallons per-minute or greater and operating on the exterior of the fire building (out of the collapse zone). Any deviation of this shall be at the discretion of the Incident Commander. Heavy-duty streams are most effective when applied through windows and played off of the ceiling.
Heavy-Duty Devices
A heavy-duty device is defined as any hoseline or appliance capable of flowing 325 gallons per-minute or greater and operating on the exterior of the fire building (out of the collapse zone). Any deviation of this shall be at the discretion of the Incident Commander. Heavy-duty streams are most effective when applied through windows and played off of the ceiling.
Heavy-Duty Operational Considerations
2 ½ Hoseline with 1 ¼ tip (325 GPM) – This is the quickest, most efficient means of applying a maneuverable heavy-duty stream from the exterior of the building as other devices are being set-up.
Heavy-Duty Operational Considerations
2 ½ Hoseline with 1 ¼ tip (325 GPM) – This is the quickest, most efficient means of applying a maneuverable heavy-duty stream from the exterior of the building as other devices are being set-up.
Wagon Pipe (Quick Attack) – Upon arrival, if fire conditions are substantial and there are exposure issues, thought shall be given to utilizing the Wagon Pipe from the tank supply to quickly knock down the fire.
Wagon Pipe (Quick Attack) – Upon arrival, if fire conditions are substantial and there are exposure issues, thought shall be given to utilizing the Wagon Pipe from the tank supply to quickly knock down the fire.
The Monitor Nozzle – Shall be considered where heavy-duty devices are required and apparatus cannot be positioned.
The Monitor Nozzle – Shall be considered where heavy-duty devices are required and apparatus cannot be positioned.
Aerial Bed Pipe – Is a stationary, pre-piped waterway capable of quickly applying water from an elevated position. This device is very effective in applying water through building openings and deflecting the stream off of the ceiling. This application results in greater water distribution to the fire area.
Aerial Bed Pipe – Is a stationary, pre-piped waterway capable of quickly applying water from an elevated position. This device is very effective in applying water through building openings and deflecting the stream off of the ceiling. This application results in greater water distribution to the fire area.
Aerial Ladder Pipe Assembly – Will provide for an elevated heavy-duty stream with greater vertical and horizontal reach. This can be utilized in conjunction with the Aerial Bed Pipe, allowing for two heavy-duty devices from one aerial.
Aerial Ladder Pipe Assembly – Will provide for an elevated heavy-duty stream with greater vertical and horizontal reach. This can be utilized in conjunction with the Aerial Bed Pipe, allowing for two heavy-duty devices from one aerial.
Aerial Platform (Tower) – Aerial platform devices can be very beneficial to heavy-duty operations when utilized/positioned correctly. These apparatus types can provide an advantageous heavy-duty stream to normally inaccessible areas. Incident Commanders shall forecast the need for the Tower Company and assure that sufficient space is available for proper positioning.
Aerial Platform (Tower) – Aerial platform devices can be very beneficial to heavy-duty operations when utilized/positioned correctly. These apparatus types can provide an advantageous heavy-duty stream to normally inaccessible areas. Incident Commanders shall forecast the need for the Tower Company and assure that sufficient space is available for proper positioning.
5.6 LONG-LENGTH ATTACK HOSELINES AND GUIDELINES FOR EXTENDING
Due to the type, height and dimensions of buildings within the District of Columbia, there is a frequent need to deploy long-length attack hoselines to reach the seat of a fire. A long-length attack hoseline shall be defined as any attack hoseline that is 350’ or longer.
5.6 LONG-LENGTH ATTACK HOSELINES AND GUIDELINES FOR EXTENDING
Due to the type, height and dimensions of buildings within the District of Columbia, there is a frequent need to deploy long-length attack hoselines to reach the seat of a fire. A long-length attack hoseline shall be defined as any attack hoseline that is 350’ or longer.
Upon arrival, if it is anticipated that an attack hoseline longer than 400’ is necessary to fulfill the Engine Companies responsibilities (fire attack, back-up, exposures, etc.), members shall utilize the leader line concept (2 ½” or 3” hoseline) for the initial stretch from the Wagon. This ensures lower friction loss for the overall attack hoseline and allows for hose connections (extension of 1 ½” from the deployed leader line) to occur prior to entering the IDLH atmosphere.
Upon arrival, if it is anticipated that an attack hoseline longer than 400’ is necessary to fulfill the Engine Companies responsibilities (fire attack, back-up, exposures, etc.), members shall utilize the leader line concept (2 ½” or 3” hoseline) for the initial stretch from the Wagon. This ensures lower friction loss for the overall attack hoseline and allows for hose connections (extension of 1 ½” from the deployed leader line) to occur prior to entering the IDLH atmosphere.
If there is a shut-off or gate valve between the leader line and the 1 ½” hoseline, it must be properly secured open prior to the crew advancing into the IDLH atmosphere. This shall be done utilizing a utility rope or short webbing.
If there is a shut-off or gate valve between the leader line and the 1 ½” hoseline, it must be properly secured open prior to the crew advancing into the IDLH atmosphere. This shall be done utilizing a utility rope or short webbing.
In the event that the leader line concept was not initially utilized and a 350’ 1 ½” attack hoseline needs to be extended, the overall attack hoseline made-up entirely of 1 ½” may not exceed HOW MANY FT?
In the event that the leader line concept was not initially utilized and a 350’ 1 ½” attack hoseline needs to be extended, the overall attack hoseline made-up entirely of 1 ½” may not exceed 400’.
Advancing Hoselines Utilizing a “Well-Hole” Stretch
A “well-hole” is defined as an open area, in the center of a stairwell, normally found in buildings that are four stories and taller.
Advancing Hoselines Utilizing a “Well-Hole” Stretch
A “well-hole” is defined as an open area, in the center of a stairwell, normally found in buildings that are four stories and taller.
Advancing Hoselines Utilizing a “Well-Hole” Stretch
A “well-hole” is defined as an open area, in the center of a stairwell, normally found in buildings that are four stories and taller.
Advancing Hoselines Utilizing a “Well-Hole” Stretch
A “well-hole” is defined as an open area, in the center of a stairwell, normally found in buildings that are four stories and taller.
Company (not 1st or 2nd due) is tasked with placing a hoseline capable of addressing all areas of responsibility, one option for doing so is to either hoist or lower a hoseline.
Company (not 1st or 2nd due) is tasked with placing a hoseline capable of addressing all areas of responsibility, one option for doing so is to either hoist or lower a hoseline.
Hoisting Hoselines
When the decision is made to hoist a hoseline, the Engine Company carrying out this tactic shall bring at least one standpipe rack, utility rope and a bag of at least 75’ of hoisting rope into the building. The 100’ standpipe rack shall provide for the hoseline necessary for the fire floor. The utility rope shall be utilized to tie-off the hoisted hoseline prior to being charged. The bag of at least 75’ of hoisting rope shall be utilized to hoist the hoseline vertically up the outside of the building.
Hoisting Hoselines
When the decision is made to hoist a hoseline, the Engine Company carrying out this tactic shall bring at least one standpipe rack, utility rope and a bag of at least 75’ of hoisting rope into the building. The 100’ standpipe rack shall provide for the hoseline necessary for the fire floor. The utility rope shall be utilized to tie-off the hoisted hoseline prior to being charged. The bag of at least 75’ of hoisting rope shall be utilized to hoist the hoseline vertically up the outside of the building.
Lowering Hoselines
When the decision is made to lower a hoseline, The Engine Company carrying out this tactic shall deploy both standpipe racks or shoulder the desired hoseline, disconnected from the Wagon (200’ 2 ½”, 350’/400’ 1 ½”). Thought must be given to the amount of hose that will be needed for the fire floor. As the crew enters the building with the selected hoseline, the Wagon Driver shall deploy the 2 ½” pre-connect or 3” supply line to the base of the building, where the hoseline will be lowered to. Once the hoseline is lowered, the Wagon Driver shall make the connection. The crew inside the building shall assure the hoseline is tied off prior to ordered charged when applicable.
Lowering Hoselines
When the decision is made to lower a hoseline, The Engine Company carrying out this tactic shall deploy both standpipe racks or shoulder the desired hoseline, disconnected from the Wagon (200’ 2 ½”, 350’/400’ 1 ½”). Thought must be given to the amount of hose that will be needed for the fire floor. As the crew enters the building with the selected hoseline, the Wagon Driver shall deploy the 2 ½” pre-connect or 3” supply line to the base of the building, where the hoseline will be lowered to. Once the hoseline is lowered, the Wagon Driver shall make the connection. The crew inside the building shall assure the hoseline is tied off prior to ordered charged when applicable.
6.1 GENERAL TRUCK COMPANY RESPONSIBILITIES
The Truck Company Officer(s) shall assure that the exterior of any fire building and/or exposure buildings are the main priority. This often requires an entire crew to effectively place several portable ground ladders, perform coordinated ventilation, provide means of egress and the removal of security devices (bars/gates, etc.).
6.1 GENERAL TRUCK COMPANY RESPONSIBILITIES
The Truck Company Officer(s) shall assure that the exterior of any fire building and/or exposure buildings are the main priority. This often requires an entire crew to effectively place several portable ground ladders, perform coordinated ventilation, provide means of egress and the removal of security devices (bars/gates, etc.).
The primary responsibilities of the Truck Company are as follows:
- Rescue – obvious in nature, such as victims at windows
- Forcible entry
- Ladder Placement
Priority of ladder placement:
- Fire Floor
- Floor Above
- Top Floor
- Roof
The primary responsibilities of the Truck Company are as follows:
- Rescue – obvious in nature, such as victims at windows
- Forcible entry
- Ladder Placement
Priority of ladder placement:
- Fire Floor
- Floor Above
- Top Floor
- Roof
Priority of ladder placement on confirmed rooftop fires:
- Roof
- Floor Below Roof
- Other Areas Adjacent to the Operation
Priority of ladder placement on confirmed rooftop fires:
- Roof
- Floor Below Roof
- Other Areas Adjacent to the Operation
- Ventilation
- Search
- Utilities
- Overhaul
- Salvage
This list does not establish priorities, since the importance of each function changes depending on the particular set of circumstances that are presented.
- Ventilation
- Search
- Utilities
- Overhaul
- Salvage
This list does not establish priorities, since the importance of each function changes depending on the particular set of circumstances that are presented.
The Officer-In-Charge of the Truck Company and Truck Driver are both responsible for the proper placement of the apparatus to insure accessibility in the placement of the aerial ladder. If the Officer is not with the Truck, it is the responsibility of the Truck Driver to position the Truck properly
The Officer-In-Charge of the Truck Company and Truck Driver are both responsible for the proper placement of the apparatus to insure accessibility in the placement of the aerial ladder. If the Officer is not with the Truck, it is the responsibility of the Truck Driver to position the Truck properly
Truck Company operations on fires are divided into two (2) main categories:
- Low-rise (four floors or less) and
- High-rise (five or more floors)
The occupancy and use of the structure will also require some special considerations.
Truck Company operations on fires are divided into two (2) main categories:
- Low-rise (four floors or less) and
- High-rise (five or more floors)
The occupancy and use of the structure will also require some special considerations.
RESCUE
Truck Companies have the ability to affect the rescue of trapped occupants, utilizing several options:
- Proper placement of portable ground ladders.
- Proper placement of the aerial ladder/tower.
- Removal of smoke via coordinated ventilation efforts.
- Performing an interior search.
- Initiating VEIS (Vent, Enter, Isolate, Search)
RESCUE
Truck Companies have the ability to affect the rescue of trapped occupants, utilizing several options:
- Proper placement of portable ground ladders.
- Proper placement of the aerial ladder/tower.
- Removal of smoke via coordinated ventilation efforts.
- Performing an interior search.
- Initiating VEIS (Vent, Enter, Isolate, Search)
VEIS – VENT-ENTER-ISOLATE-SEARCH
In unusual instances where traditional means of egress are blocked, members of a Truck Company may utilize the Vent-Enter-Isolate-Search technique.
VEIS – VENT-ENTER-ISOLATE-SEARCH
In unusual instances where traditional means of egress are blocked, members of a Truck Company may utilize the Vent-Enter-Isolate-Search technique.
Vent – The member places a ladder (portable ground ladder or aerial) in a position for rescue. Prior to ascending the ladder, the member shall have on full Personal Protective Equipment and be utilizing SCBA. Once at the tip of the ladder (entry to structure), the member shall perform horizontal ventilation by removing all glass and window components. VEIS uses exterior windows, so crews should be extremely careful to not enter pre-flashover environments. Opening windows for VEIS will change fire behavior and crews should be cognizant of the rapidly changing fire environment.
Vent – The member places a ladder (portable ground ladder or aerial) in a position for rescue. Prior to ascending the ladder, the member shall have on full Personal Protective Equipment and be utilizing SCBA. Once at the tip of the ladder (entry to structure), the member shall perform horizontal ventilation by removing all glass and window components. VEIS uses exterior windows, so crews should be extremely careful to not enter pre-flashover environments. Opening windows for VEIS will change fire behavior and crews should be cognizant of the rapidly changing fire environment.
Enter – Prior to entry, the member shall sound the floor, utilizing a hand tool. If in possession of a Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC), scan the vicinity for victims, room layout, identify hazards and temperatures. The second member of the team will ascend ladder and maintain contact with the member performing the search.
Enter – Prior to entry, the member shall sound the floor, utilizing a hand tool. If in possession of a Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC), scan the vicinity for victims, room layout, identify hazards and temperatures. The second member of the team will ascend ladder and maintain contact with the member performing the search.
Isolate – Upon entry, it is imperative that the member immediately identify the doorway leading into the room and close it. This will provide for isolation from fire elements.
Isolate – Upon entry, it is imperative that the member immediately identify the doorway leading into the room and close it. This will provide for isolation from fire elements.
Search – The member shall perform a systematic search of the room in a primary fashion. At no point shall the member exit the room via the closed doorway. Once the search is completed, the member shall exit the window originally entered (via the ladder). Upon completion, the Incident Commander will be notified of the results of the search and that they have left the IDLH atmosphere.
Search – The member shall perform a systematic search of the room in a primary fashion. At no point shall the member exit the room via the closed doorway. Once the search is completed, the member shall exit the window originally entered (via the ladder). Upon completion, the Incident Commander will be notified of the results of the search and that they have left the IDLH atmosphere.
6.5 VENTILATION
One of the Truck Company’s primary responsibilities is to provide ventilation. Efficient ventilation assists operating crews with the relief needed to perform search/rescue operations and fire extinguishment. Truck Company ventilation efforts shall always be coordinated with Engine Company operations. Performing ventilation without a properly placed (and charged) hoseline will result in the rapid spread of fire, potentially endangering the lives of occupants and firefighters.
6.5 VENTILATION
One of the Truck Company’s primary responsibilities is to provide ventilation. Efficient ventilation assists operating crews with the relief needed to perform search/rescue operations and fire extinguishment. Truck Company ventilation efforts shall always be coordinated with Engine Company operations. Performing ventilation without a properly placed (and charged) hoseline will result in the rapid spread of fire, potentially endangering the lives of occupants and firefighters.
If it is anticipated that Engine Companies will be delayed in their arrival to a working structural fire, Truck Company Officers shall assure that ventilation efforts are not prematurely initiated. This shall include, but not limited to, leaving windows intact, controlling doors, delaying vertical/horizontal ventilation, etc.
If it is anticipated that Engine Companies will be delayed in their arrival to a working structural fire, Truck Company Officers shall assure that ventilation efforts are not prematurely initiated. This shall include, but not limited to, leaving windows intact, controlling doors, delaying vertical/horizontal ventilation, etc.
It is commonly found that there is a delay in the timely placement of a charged hoseline to fires involving basements and high rise buildings. In these circumstances, ventilation will be delayed until a charged hoseline is in-place and capable of effectively advancing into the fire area.
It is commonly found that there is a delay in the timely placement of a charged hoseline to fires involving basements and high rise buildings. In these circumstances, ventilation will be delayed until a charged hoseline is in-place and capable of effectively advancing into the fire area.
6.6 POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION
Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV) is a tactical operation that must be used only when favorable conditions exist. Improper use of PPV can lead to accelerated fire spread, the extension of hidden fire, and the endangerment of occupants and firefighters.
6.6 POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION
Positive Pressure Ventilation (PPV) is a tactical operation that must be used only when favorable conditions exist. Improper use of PPV can lead to accelerated fire spread, the extension of hidden fire, and the endangerment of occupants and firefighters.
The Ventilation Group Supervisor (or designee) shall update Command at 10-minute intervals during the operation of PPV.
The Ventilation Group Supervisor (or designee) shall update Command at 10-minute intervals during the operation of PPV.
Outside Team
The Outside Team shall consist of the Company Officer, Bar position and Hook position. Although they are considered the “Outside Team”, the personnel assigned will move inside once all outside duties are completed.
Outside Team
The Outside Team shall consist of the Company Officer, Bar position and Hook position. Although they are considered the “Outside Team”, the personnel assigned will move inside once all outside duties are completed.
Once portable ground ladders are in position, the Outside Team will continue to perform such tasks as:
- Performs outside, coordinated horizontal ventilation • Removes gates and window bars in area of operation.
- Forces entry to exterior and interior doors when necessary.
- Searches for victims in the fire area.
- Uses Thermal Imager to search for victims and assist with overhaul. • Performs mechanical ventilation, overhaul and salvage in area of operation • Assures the isolation/control of utilities as appropriate.
Once portable ground ladders are in position, the Outside Team will continue to perform such tasks as:
- Performs outside, coordinated horizontal ventilation • Removes gates and window bars in area of operation.
- Forces entry to exterior and interior doors when necessary.
- Searches for victims in the fire area.
- Uses Thermal Imager to search for victims and assist with overhaul. • Performs mechanical ventilation, overhaul and salvage in area of operation • Assures the isolation/control of utilities as appropriate.
Company Officer
- The performance of a Company is the responsibility of the Company Officer, who shall ensure that the company operates in a safe and efficient manner.
- Prioritizes and coordinates Company operations.
- Utilize the Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC) or assign its operation to the Bar position.
- Work with Bar and Hook positions as Outside Team.
Company Officer
- The performance of a Company is the responsibility of the Company Officer, who shall ensure that the company operates in a safe and efficient manner.
- Prioritizes and coordinates Company operations.
- Utilize the Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC) or assign its operation to the Bar position.
- Work with Bar and Hook positions as Outside Team.
Bar Position
- Works with Officer and Hook as a member of the Outside Team.
- Shall carry the Halligan Bar and a Flat-Headed Axe (Or Sledgehammer) at a minimum. When encountering buildings with suspected metal doors and metal frames, shall also carry the Hydra-Ram.
- If assigned by the Company Officer, shall operate with the Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC).
Bar Position
- Works with Officer and Hook as a member of the Outside Team.
- Shall carry the Halligan Bar and a Flat-Headed Axe (Or Sledgehammer) at a minimum. When encountering buildings with suspected metal doors and metal frames, shall also carry the Hydra-Ram.
- If assigned by the Company Officer, shall operate with the Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC).
Hook Position
- Works with Officer and Bar as a member of the Outside Team.
- Shall carry a 6-foot ceiling hook, unless building attributes require a ceiling hook of a different length.
- Consider bringing two-hooks as to expedite the process of checking for extension.
Hook Position
- Works with Officer and Bar as a member of the Outside Team.
- Shall carry a 6-foot ceiling hook, unless building attributes require a ceiling hook of a different length.
- Consider bringing two-hooks as to expedite the process of checking for extension.
Roof Team
Truck Driver
- Locates the apparatus as determined by the position due.
- Places aerial ladder or ground ladders in position to make rescues or to gain access to the roof.
Roof Team
Truck Driver
- Locates the apparatus as determined by the position due.
- Places aerial ladder or ground ladders in position to make rescues or to gain access to the roof.
Roof Team
Truck Driver
- Locates the apparatus as determined by the position due.
- Places aerial ladder or ground ladders in position to make rescues or to gain access to the roof.
Roof Team
Truck Driver
- Locates the apparatus as determined by the position due.
- Places aerial ladder or ground ladders in position to make rescues or to gain access to the roof.
Roof Team
- Assures coordinated ventilation efforts (including use of PPV fans).
- Opens hatches, skylights and bulkheads.
- Checks rear and sides of the building.
- Vents top floor windows when applicable.
Roof Team
- Assures coordinated ventilation efforts (including use of PPV fans).
- Opens hatches, skylights and bulkheads.
- Checks rear and sides of the building.
- Vents top floor windows when applicable.
Top floor, attic and cockloft fires:
- Cut roof opening directly over the fire location (4’X4’) • Enlarge opening to 4’X 8’ if conditions dictate.
- Make trench cuts as necessary to limit fire spread.
- Gives a report to the Vent Group Supervisor/Truck Company Officer.
- Reports directly to Command if unusual conditions are found.
- Places lights and fans in service.
Top floor, attic and cockloft fires:
- Cut roof opening directly over the fire location (4’X4’) • Enlarge opening to 4’X 8’ if conditions dictate.
- Make trench cuts as necessary to limit fire spread.
- Gives a report to the Vent Group Supervisor/Truck Company Officer.
- Reports directly to Command if unusual conditions are found.
- Places lights and fans in service.
6.8 ROOF OPERATIONS
The quickest and most efficient accessibility to the roof area depends on the height of the involved building. During fires involving the 4th floor or below, the aerial ladder is the optimal choice. To the contrary, fires involving high rise buildings may require access via an interior stairwell. This is especially true when dealing with fires in the upper floors of a high rise building, where the aerial ladder is placed to the fire floor.
6.8 ROOF OPERATIONS
The quickest and most efficient accessibility to the roof area depends on the height of the involved building. During fires involving the 4th floor or below, the aerial ladder is the optimal choice. To the contrary, fires involving high rise buildings may require access via an interior stairwell. This is especially true when dealing with fires in the upper floors of a high rise building, where the aerial ladder is placed to the fire floor. The Incident
Roof Team
The Roof Team shall consist of at least two-members, due to the importance of safety and efficiency. Each member operating on the roof shall wear full Personal Protective Equipment and SCBA while an IDLH atmosphere is present.
Roof Team
The Roof Team shall consist of at least two-members, due to the importance of safety and efficiency. Each member operating on the roof shall wear full Personal Protective Equipment and SCBA while an IDLH atmosphere is present.
If members of the Roof Team anticipate the need for a charged hoseline on the roof, they shall deploy a line while advancing to the roof or request an Engine Company via the Incident Commander.
If members of the Roof Team anticipate the need for a charged hoseline on the roof, they shall deploy a line while advancing to the roof or request an Engine Company via the Incident Commander.
Roof Team Reports
Size-up information and CAN reports from the Roof Team are a valuable asset to the Incident Commander and the successful outcome of an incident.
Roof Team Reports
Size-up information and CAN reports from the Roof Team are a valuable asset to the Incident Commander and the successful outcome of an incident.
Scrub Area
“Scrub area” is defined as the area of a building wall that can be touched by the bucket of the aerial.
Scrub Area
“Scrub area” is defined as the area of a building wall that can be touched by the bucket of the aerial.
Positioning
Placement of the Tower Ladder will be dependent of the conditions encountered upon arrival. The Company Officer, along with the assistance of the Technician(s) shall assure that the Tower Ladder is placed in an optimal position. Prior to arrival on a 2nd Alarm or greater, if radio traffic warrants, the Company Officer shall notify the Incident Commander that the Tower Ladder is responding on the alarm and coordinate a position of effectiveness.
Positioning
Placement of the Tower Ladder will be dependent of the conditions encountered upon arrival. The Company Officer, along with the assistance of the Technician(s) shall assure that the Tower Ladder is placed in an optimal position. Prior to arrival on a 2nd Alarm or greater, if radio traffic warrants, the Company Officer shall notify the Incident Commander that the Tower Ladder is responding on the alarm and coordinate a position of effectiveness.
Generally the apparatus should be parallel to the building. Occasionally the cab of the apparatus will reduce/inhibit the scrub area of the bucket. This condition can be corrected by parking the apparatus with the front end angled about HOW MANY? degrees from the building line.
Generally the apparatus should be parallel to the building. Occasionally the cab of the apparatus will reduce/inhibit the scrub area of the bucket. This condition can be corrected by parking the apparatus with the front end angled about 15 degrees from the building line.
Positioning apparatus perpendicular to building will considerably reduce scrub area and should be avoided whenever possible.
Positioning apparatus perpendicular to building will considerably reduce scrub area and should be avoided whenever possible.
However, where the ground is of doubtful stability, such as vacant lots or other unpaved areas that may have hidden voids, and pads for outriggers are deemed not substantial enough, it may be more advantageous to position apparatus perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to the fire building. This will tend to equalize pressure on outriggers resulting from lateral movement of the boom thereby reducing the possibility of the apparatus “pole vaulting” should the footing of an outrigger collapse.
However, where the ground is of doubtful stability, such as vacant lots or other unpaved areas that may have hidden voids, and pads for outriggers are deemed not substantial enough, it may be more advantageous to position apparatus perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to the fire building. This will tend to equalize pressure on outriggers resulting from lateral movement of the boom thereby reducing the possibility of the apparatus “pole vaulting” should the footing of an outrigger collapse.
Note: Do not extend the bucket at a level over the highway or elevated train structure. This is to eliminate possibility of the bucket being struck by traffic or train. Members shall use extreme care in leaving the bucket to go on to an elevated roadway or rail structure.
Note: Do not extend the bucket at a level over the highway or elevated train structure. This is to eliminate possibility of the bucket being struck by traffic or train. Members shall use extreme care in leaving the bucket to go on to an elevated roadway or rail structure.
When the fire building is heavily involved on several floors, heavy-duty stream delivery should generally start at the lowest level and work upward, effecting a quick knock-down on the way up to top floor and/or cockloft area, in order to protect members in the bucket operating at the highest level.
When the fire building is heavily involved on several floors, heavy-duty stream delivery should generally start at the lowest level and work upward, effecting a quick knock-down on the way up to top floor and/or cockloft area, in order to protect members in the bucket operating at the highest level.
7.1 RESCUE SQUAD OPERATIONS
The primary responsibility of the Rescue Squad shall be to perform search and rescue operations on all structural fires. The Rescue Squad will not take a position on any Box/Multiple Alarm that will impede the proper placement of Engine and Truck Companies. Additionally, the Rescue Squad will not obstruct the view of the Incident Commander.
7.1 RESCUE SQUAD OPERATIONS
The primary responsibility of the Rescue Squad shall be to perform search and rescue operations on all structural fires. The Rescue Squad will not take a position on any Box/Multiple Alarm that will impede the proper placement of Engine and Truck Companies. Additionally, the Rescue Squad will not obstruct the view of the Incident Commander.
The Rescue Squad Officer directs members to their operational locations; usually the members are divided into two teams of two.
- One team assigned to the floor above and one team assigned to the fire floor.
- The Rescue Squad driver remains flexible to assist with logistical needs of specialized tools. The rescue squad driver will immediately assist with the removal of security bars, roll down doors/gates, etc.
The Rescue Squad Officer directs members to their operational locations; usually the members are divided into two teams of two.
- One team assigned to the floor above and one team assigned to the fire floor.
- The Rescue Squad driver remains flexible to assist with logistical needs of specialized tools. The rescue squad driver will immediately assist with the removal of security bars, roll down doors/gates, etc.
Upon completion of search and rescue operations, the Rescue Squad shall immediately make themselves available to be reassigned at the discretion of the Incident Commander.
Upon completion of search and rescue operations, the Rescue Squad shall immediately make themselves available to be reassigned at the discretion of the Incident Commander.
LOCAL ALARM OVERVIEW
A Local Alarm is any response less than a full Box Alarm Assignment. The Office of Unified Communications (OUC) will dispatch a Local Alarm for the following types of incidents:
LOCAL ALARM OVERVIEW
A Local Alarm is any response less than a full Box Alarm Assignment. The Office of Unified Communications (OUC) will dispatch a Local Alarm for the following types of incidents:
Engine Company Responsibilities
- Reports to area/location of dispatch • Gives a complete size-up.
- Investigates and mitigates problem.
- Use of full PPE and SCBA shall be required on any incident where an IDLH is present (dumpster fires, trash fires, etc.)
Engine Company Responsibilities
- Reports to area/location of dispatch • Gives a complete size-up.
- Investigates and mitigates problem.
- Use of full PPE and SCBA shall be required on any incident where an IDLH is present (dumpster fires, trash fires, etc.)
• Specifically, on vehicle fires:
Full PPE and SCBA shall be required.
Apparatus should be positioned at least 50 feet from the front of a vehicle on fire; and 100 feet when positioned to the rear.
1 ½” handlines will be used on vehicle fires.
The wheels of burning vehicles should be chocked.
Fuel should never be flushed into the sewer system.
• Requests additional resources as necessary
• Specifically, on vehicle fires:
Full PPE and SCBA shall be required.
Apparatus should be positioned at least 50 feet from the front of a vehicle on fire; and 100 feet when positioned to the rear.
1 ½” handlines will be used on vehicle fires.
The wheels of burning vehicles should be chocked.
Fuel should never be flushed into the sewer system.
• Requests additional resources as necessary
Fallen Trees
Temporary corrective action for the removal of fallen trees shall be taken by the Department whenever:
- Persons are entrapped.
- Life and/or property is endangered.
- All traffic lanes on heavily traveled streets are obstructed,
- The only access to other streets is blocked, and the problem cannot be handled by the Department of Public Works.
Fallen Trees
Temporary corrective action for the removal of fallen trees shall be taken by the Department whenever:
- Persons are entrapped.
- Life and/or property is endangered.
- All traffic lanes on heavily traveled streets are obstructed,
- The only access to other streets is blocked, and the problem cannot be handled by the Department of Public Works.
Truck Company Responsibilities
- Reports to area/location of dispatch • Gives a complete size-up.
- Investigates and mitigates problem.
- Requests additional resources as necessary.
Truck Company Responsibilities
- Reports to area/location of dispatch • Gives a complete size-up.
- Investigates and mitigates problem.
- Requests additional resources as necessary.
For large scale trees, the Company Officer shall request the assistance of the DDOT Urban Forestry Administration through the Office of Unified Communications.
For large scale trees, the Company Officer shall request the assistance of the DDOT Urban Forestry Administration through the Office of Unified Communications.
8.3 LOCAL ALARMS IN BUILDINGS
Single Engine Company (Incident Types)
- Activated Smoke Detector
- Residential Fire Alarm
- Alarm Bells Sounding (Local Building System)
Engine Company Responsibilities
- Positions on the address side of the structure, Side A-Alpha.
- Gives a complete size-up.
- Locates and utilizes the buildings fire suppression system annunciator panel.
- Investigates and mitigates problem.
- If incident escalates, requests additional resources and follow the SOG for applicable structure.
8.3 LOCAL ALARMS IN BUILDINGS
Single Engine Company (Incident Types)
- Activated Smoke Detector
- Residential Fire Alarm
- Alarm Bells Sounding (Local Building System)
Engine Company Responsibilities
- Positions on the address side of the structure, Side A-Alpha.
- Gives a complete size-up.
- Locates and utilizes the buildings fire suppression system annunciator panel.
- Investigates and mitigates problem.
- If incident escalates, requests additional resources and follow the SOG for applicable structure.
Single Truck Company (Incident Types)
- Water Leaks
- Activated Carbon Monoxide Detector (No reported illness)
Single Truck Company (Incident Types)
- Water Leaks
- Activated Carbon Monoxide Detector (No reported illness)
Truck Company Responsibilities
- Positions on the address side of the structure, Side A-Alpha.
- Gives a complete size-up.
- Investigates and mitigates problem.
- Requests additional resources as necessary.
Truck Company Responsibilities
- Positions on the address side of the structure, Side A-Alpha.
- Gives a complete size-up.
- Investigates and mitigates problem.
- Requests additional resources as necessary.
8.4 TRIPLE LOCAL ALARMS (NON-NAT GAS) – 3 ENG, 1 TRUCK, AND 1 BFC
- Odor of Smoke in the Building, Confined Appliance Fires, etc.
- Fires Reported Out
8.4 TRIPLE LOCAL ALARMS (NON-NAT GAS) – 3 ENG, 1 TRUCK, AND 1 BFC
- Odor of Smoke in the Building, Confined Appliance Fires, etc.
- Fires Reported Out
First Due Engine Company
- Positions on the address side of the structure, Side A-Alpha.
- Gives a complete size-up, including layout and establishes Command.
- Stretches a hoseline to the seat of the fire.
- Will be assigned by Command to either a Division or to the Attack Group.
First Due Engine Company
- Positions on the address side of the structure, Side A-Alpha.
- Gives a complete size-up, including layout and establishes Command.
- Stretches a hoseline to the seat of the fire.
- Will be assigned by Command to either a Division or to the Attack Group.
Second Due Engine Company
• Positions in the rear or opposite the address side, Side C-Charlie.
• Gives a complete size-up.
• Verifies the conditions in the basement and notifies Command.
• Advises Command of the status of utilities.
• After checking the basement, they will verify their assignment from Command.
1. Cover the floor(s) above the fire (Division above the fire or Exposure Group).
2. Cover exposures on either side of fire (Exposure Group) if the fire is on the 1st floor.
Second Due Engine Company
• Positions in the rear or opposite the address side, Side C-Charlie.
• Gives a complete size-up.
• Verifies the conditions in the basement and notifies Command.
• Advises Command of the status of utilities.
• After checking the basement, they will verify their assignment from Command.
1. Cover the floor(s) above the fire (Division above the fire or Exposure Group).
2. Cover exposures on either side of fire (Exposure Group) if the fire is on the 1st floor.
Third Due Engine Company
- Stages in line of approach so that they may complete the water supply for the 1st or 2nd due Engine Company.
- Command may assign them to the Attack Group, to the Division on the fire floor, to back up the 1st due Engine Company with a second hoseline, to the Division above the fire, or to the Exposure Group.
Third Due Engine Company
- Stages in line of approach so that they may complete the water supply for the 1st or 2nd due Engine Company.
- Command may assign them to the Attack Group, to the Division on the fire floor, to back up the 1st due Engine Company with a second hoseline, to the Division above the fire, or to the Exposure Group.
Truck Company
- Positions on the address side of the structure, Side A-Alpha.
- Gives a complete size-up if arriving first on the scene and establishes Command or provides an updated size-up if additional information is evident on their arrival.
- Places portable ground ladder(s) to Side A-Alpha as outlined in the Truck Company Operations SOG’s.
- Places portable ground ladder(s) to Sides B-Bravo, C-Charlie, and D-Delta as outlined in the Truck Company Operations SOG’s.
- Enters the building with tools and meters appropriate for the type of incident.
- Places aerial ladder in position for rescues. If no rescues are to be made, or rescues are being covered by portable ground ladders, place aerial ladder for access to the roof.
Truck Company
- Positions on the address side of the structure, Side A-Alpha.
- Gives a complete size-up if arriving first on the scene and establishes Command or provides an updated size-up if additional information is evident on their arrival.
- Places portable ground ladder(s) to Side A-Alpha as outlined in the Truck Company Operations SOG’s.
- Places portable ground ladder(s) to Sides B-Bravo, C-Charlie, and D-Delta as outlined in the Truck Company Operations SOG’s.
- Enters the building with tools and meters appropriate for the type of incident.
- Places aerial ladder in position for rescues. If no rescues are to be made, or rescues are being covered by portable ground ladders, place aerial ladder for access to the roof.
8.5 MOTOR VEHICLE RESCUES WITH ENTRAPMENT
Motor Vehicle Rescue assignments are dispatched to automobile accidents with reported entrapment. Patient condition, entrapment situation, existing or potential hazards, and available resources will influence extrication methods. The Rescue Squad Officer is responsible for selecting the most appropriate technique to free victims, after consulting with the EMS provider with the highest medical certification.
8.5 MOTOR VEHICLE RESCUES WITH ENTRAPMENT
Motor Vehicle Rescue assignments are dispatched to automobile accidents with reported entrapment. Patient condition, entrapment situation, existing or potential hazards, and available resources will influence extrication methods. The Rescue Squad Officer is responsible for selecting the most appropriate technique to free victims, after consulting with the EMS provider with the highest medical certification.
Units must size up the incident scene, including performing inner and outer circle checks. This shall include identification of hazards (electric, fuel, etc.) and the number/severity of patients.
Units must size up the incident scene, including performing inner and outer circle checks. This shall include identification of hazards (electric, fuel, etc.) and the number/severity of patients.
Personnel Safety
All personnel inside the action circle should wear full protective clothing, except when inside a vehicle or similar confines solely to provide patient care.
Personnel must follow established infection control procedures at all times.
Personnel Safety
All personnel inside the action circle should wear full protective clothing, except when inside a vehicle or similar confines solely to provide patient care.
Personnel must follow established infection control procedures at all times.
Vehicles found on sides, roofs or in other unstable positions must be stabilized.
Vehicles found on sides, roofs or in other unstable positions must be stabilized.
Rescuer Access and Patient Stabilization
Rescuers may enter a vehicle only after it has been properly stabilized. If rescuer safety can be maintained, a rescuer outside the vehicle may manually control the c-spine of an accident victim with suspected cervical spine injuries until the vehicle can be properly
Rescuer Access and Patient Stabilization
Rescuers may enter a vehicle only after it has been properly stabilized. If rescuer safety can be maintained, a rescuer outside the vehicle may manually control the c-spine of an accident victim with suspected cervical spine injuries until the vehicle can be properly
At least one charged 1 -1/2” hoseline should be in place to protect victims and rescuers:
- During any extrication procedure.
- At any accident scene where flammable liquids have been released. Rescue Squad
- Positions to effectively use all equipment.
- Stabilizes the vehicle.
- Extricates, protects and cares for the patient.
- Rescue Squad Officer becomes the Rescue/Extrication Group Supervisor when directed by Command.
- Ensures the completion of inner and outer circle checks as necessary.
At least one charged 1 -1/2” hoseline should be in place to protect victims and rescuers:
- During any extrication procedure.
- At any accident scene where flammable liquids have been released. Rescue Squad
- Positions to effectively use all equipment.
- Stabilizes the vehicle.
- Extricates, protects and cares for the patient.
- Rescue Squad Officer becomes the Rescue/Extrication Group Supervisor when directed by Command.
- Ensures the completion of inner and outer circle checks as necessary.
Engine Company
• Positions apparatus to allow the use of a hoseline.
• Insure water supply.
• Provides adequate access and egress from the scene for emergency vehicles.
• Begins appropriate patient care.
• Ensures fire suppression equipment is in place.
o During any extrication procedure, at least one charged hoseline must be in place to protect victims and rescuers
• Secures minor hazards:
o Disconnects the battery
o Spreads absorbent
Engine Company
• Positions apparatus to allow the use of a hoseline.
• Insure water supply.
• Provides adequate access and egress from the scene for emergency vehicles.
• Begins appropriate patient care.
• Ensures fire suppression equipment is in place.
o During any extrication procedure, at least one charged hoseline must be in place to protect victims and rescuers
• Secures minor hazards:
o Disconnects the battery
o Spreads absorbent
Truck Company
• Positions apparatus to effectively use all equipment.
• Ensures the safety of rescuers and patients.
• Provides lighting for patient assessment and to ensure personnel safety.
• Assists with patient care and packaging.
• Truck Company Officer becomes the Safety Group Supervisor when directed by Command.
• Ensures the completion of inner and outer circle checks as necessary.
o Consider using the Thermal Imager to check the perimeter of highspeed accidents for victims.
Truck Company
• Positions apparatus to effectively use all equipment.
• Ensures the safety of rescuers and patients.
• Provides lighting for patient assessment and to ensure personnel safety.
• Assists with patient care and packaging.
• Truck Company Officer becomes the Safety Group Supervisor when directed by Command.
• Ensures the completion of inner and outer circle checks as necessary.
o Consider using the Thermal Imager to check the perimeter of highspeed accidents for victims.
STRUCTURAL FIRE OVERVIEW
With the studies conducted by Underwriter’s laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the ATF regarding Modern Fire Behavior, it is critical that we include the results of these studies into our everyday operations. One commonly unknown fact about these studies is that they originated in the District of Columbia, after the tragic firefighter fatalities/injuries at 3146 Cherry Road, NE (Box Alarm 6178).
STRUCTURAL FIRE OVERVIEW
With the studies conducted by Underwriter’s laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the ATF regarding Modern Fire Behavior, it is critical that we include the results of these studies into our everyday operations. One commonly unknown fact about these studies is that they originated in the District of Columbia, after the tragic firefighter fatalities/injuries at 3146 Cherry Road, NE (Box Alarm 6178).
In short, modern fuel in homes and occupancies is much different than in the past when reacting to fire. These fuels (modern) release energy at a rate of 5 to 10 times faster than older traditional (legacy) fuels. What this mean is that fires will reach flashover much quicker than in the past (without the quick application of water to absorb the heat).
In short, modern fuel in homes and occupancies is much different than in the past when reacting to fire. These fuels (modern) release energy at a rate of 5 to 10 times faster than older traditional (legacy) fuels. What this mean is that fires will reach flashover much quicker than in the past (without the quick application of water to absorb the heat).
Ventilation without water application will increase the heat release rate of modern fuels and thereby increase the volume of fire. With this in mind, ventilation shall always be performed simultaneously with water application
Ventilation without water application will increase the heat release rate of modern fuels and thereby increase the volume of fire. With this in mind, ventilation shall always be performed simultaneously with water application
The second misconception is that water applied to a fire from an exterior position will
“push” the fire. It is true that if a fog steam is aggressively rotated, it will entrain air and create a current. This will certainly affect the movement of heat and gases. However, a straight or solid stream applied without rotating the nozzle will not contribute to fire spread.
The second misconception is that water applied to a fire from an exterior position will
“push” the fire. It is true that if a fog steam is aggressively rotated, it will entrain air and create a current. This will certainly affect the movement of heat and gases. However, a straight or solid stream applied without rotating the nozzle will not contribute to fire spread.
The results of these studies and their application to our everyday operations are simply summarized as never delay applying water to the fire, ventilate only when water is ready to be flown and control all openings such as window, doors and roofs. Our current standard operational guidelines place a heavy emphasis on these considerations.
The results of these studies and their application to our everyday operations are simply summarized as never delay applying water to the fire, ventilate only when water is ready to be flown and control all openings such as window, doors and roofs. Our current standard operational guidelines place a heavy emphasis on these considerations.
RECEO, an acronym for Rescue, Exposure Protection, Confinement, Extinguishment, and Overhaul, is a general blueprint for emergency operations.
RECEO, an acronym for Rescue, Exposure Protection, Confinement, Extinguishment, and Overhaul, is a general blueprint for emergency operations.
R – Trapped occupants are always our number one priority. If this situation presents itself, companies shall immediately facilitate the rescue of those individuals. The Companies shall direct their attention to the task and their tactics should represent that mission. Engine Companies generally perform rescues by placing a hose line in-service between the fire and the occupants, or by extinguishing the fire.
R – Trapped occupants are always our number one priority. If this situation presents itself, companies shall immediately facilitate the rescue of those individuals. The Companies shall direct their attention to the task and their tactics should represent that mission. Engine Companies generally perform rescues by placing a hose line in-service between the fire and the occupants, or by extinguishing the fire.
E – The protection of exposures can be in the form of any surrounding structural area and attached occupancies. If the structure is fully involved with fire, then the possibility of any rescue attempt is unlikely. Therefore, our mission requires the protection of the most property as possible. Tactics should be directed to protecting property outside the building and inside. The protection of exposures goes hand-in-hand with confinement.
E – The protection of exposures can be in the form of any surrounding structural area and attached occupancies. If the structure is fully involved with fire, then the possibility of any rescue attempt is unlikely. Therefore, our mission requires the protection of the most property as possible. Tactics should be directed to protecting property outside the building and inside. The protection of exposures goes hand-in-hand with confinement.
E – The quick extinguishment of the fire directly addresses the mission. The extinguishment of the fire allows units to operate safely and search the structure while protecting the unburned property.
E – The quick extinguishment of the fire directly addresses the mission. The extinguishment of the fire allows units to operate safely and search the structure while protecting the unburned property.
O – The overhaul operations will find any hidden fire that threatens the structure from unseen locations therefore protecting the property from fire extension.
O – The overhaul operations will find any hidden fire that threatens the structure from unseen locations therefore protecting the property from fire extension.
9.3 STAIRWAYS
- Usually provide the quickest and safest access route to upper floors.
- Provide a path of egress for the removal of victims.
- Serve as a route of egress or access for firefighters to lower safe location when fire conditions make the upper floor(s) untenable
9.3 STAIRWAYS
- Usually provide the quickest and safest access route to upper floors.
- Provide a path of egress for the removal of victims.
- Serve as a route of egress or access for firefighters to lower safe location when fire conditions make the upper floor(s) untenable
• Members will not be positioned on stairways in a stationary position unless they are assisting with advancing a hoseline forward or performing a task that necessitates they be positioned on the stairs.
• Members will not be positioned on stairways in a stationary position unless they are assisting with advancing a hoseline forward or performing a task that necessitates they be positioned on the stairs.
9.5 BASEMENT FIRES
Basement fire incidents have proven to be one of the most dangerous and deadly structural fire situations encountered by firefighters in the District of Columbia. This is due to several factors attributed to construction characteristics and fire behavior.
9.5 BASEMENT FIRES
Basement fire incidents have proven to be one of the most dangerous and deadly structural fire situations encountered by firefighters in the District of Columbia. This is due to several factors attributed to construction characteristics and fire behavior.
On known basement fires, the primary purpose of the 1st due Engine Company’s hoseline is to WHAT?
On known basement fires, the primary purpose of the 1st due Engine Company’s hoseline is to protect the search and rescue operation.
The best location to confine the basement fire is at the top of the interior basement stairwell. Advancement to the top of the basement stairs shall be done incrementally. The first priority will be to protect the stairs between the 1st and 2nd floors, and if conditions allow further advancement, the next priority will be to locate the basement stairs and provide protection for the rescue operation from this position by closing the basement door.
The best location to confine the basement fire is at the top of the interior basement stairwell. Advancement to the top of the basement stairs shall be done incrementally. The first priority will be to protect the stairs between the 1st and 2nd floors, and if conditions allow further advancement, the next priority will be to locate the basement stairs and provide protection for the rescue operation from this position by closing the basement door.
If there is no door at the top of the stairs, or it will not close, a hoseline directed at the 1st floor ceiling above the basement doorway would provide limited protection. Additionally, the 1st due Engine Company’s Officer shall ensure that ventilation is controlled, until it is confirmed that a charged hoseline is operating in the basement.
If there is no door at the top of the stairs, or it will not close, a hoseline directed at the 1st floor ceiling above the basement doorway would provide limited protection. Additionally, the 1st due Engine Company’s Officer shall ensure that ventilation is controlled, until it is confirmed that a charged hoseline is operating in the basement.
• If high heat conditions exist, a straight stream shall be operated and directed into the ceiling area to cool the environment.
• If high heat conditions exist, a straight stream shall be operated and directed into the ceiling area to cool the environment.
• All companies operating on the 1st floor above a basement fire shall perform risk assessments of the conditions inside the building at the following locations:
o The outside front steps.
o At the threshold of the front door. o Inside the front door/foyer.
o At the door to the basement from the 1st floor.
• All companies operating on the 1st floor above a basement fire shall perform risk assessments of the conditions inside the building at the following locations:
o The outside front steps.
o At the threshold of the front door. o Inside the front door/foyer.
o At the door to the basement from the 1st floor.
If the decision is made to evacuate the building:
- Incrementally begin to back-out of the building using the hoseline for protection. The removal of this hoseline from the building will not take place until all members involved in the search and interior operations on the floors above the basement have exited the building.
- All personnel that were operating on the 1st floor and above shall notify their Officer when exiting the building.
- Command will be notified when all Companies other than the Engine Company providing the protective hoseline at the top of the basement stairs have exited the building.
- Command will conduct a roll call.
If the decision is made to evacuate the building:
- Incrementally begin to back-out of the building using the hoseline for protection. The removal of this hoseline from the building will not take place until all members involved in the search and interior operations on the floors above the basement have exited the building.
- All personnel that were operating on the 1st floor and above shall notify their Officer when exiting the building.
- Command will be notified when all Companies other than the Engine Company providing the protective hoseline at the top of the basement stairs have exited the building.
- Command will conduct a roll call.
9.6 REAR PORCH FIRES
The main fire attack will occur when companies advance hoselines through side AAlpha. However, companies in the rear shall extinguish horizontally spreading fire by utilizing a flanking tactic.
9.6 REAR PORCH FIRES
The main fire attack will occur when companies advance hoselines through side AAlpha. However, companies in the rear shall extinguish horizontally spreading fire by utilizing a flanking tactic.
HIGH RISE BUIDING FIRES
The height of buildings in the District of Columbia is limited by the “Height of Buildings Act of 1910”, which in short states that buildings may not be taller than HOW MANY-feet.
HIGH RISE BUIDING FIRES
The height of buildings in the District of Columbia is limited by the “Height of Buildings Act of 1910”, which in short states that buildings may not be taller than 130-feet.
A high-rise building is typically defined as a structure that is greater than 75’ in height or a building that exceeds the reach of the tallest aerial device.
A high-rise building is typically defined as a structure that is greater than 75’ in height or a building that exceeds the reach of the tallest aerial device.
Firefighting operations in residential high-rise structures; apartment, condominiums, hotels, etc., will differ from those in office buildings or mixed-use commercial occupancies. The difference between operations would depend on the amount of compartmentalization vs. an open floor area used in the configuration.
Firefighting operations in residential high-rise structures; apartment, condominiums, hotels, etc., will differ from those in office buildings or mixed-use commercial occupancies. The difference between operations would depend on the amount of compartmentalization vs. an open floor area used in the configuration.
Firefighting operations in residential high-rise structures; apartment, condominiums, hotels, etc., will differ from those in office buildings or mixed-use commercial occupancies. The difference between operations would depend on the amount of compartmentalization vs. an open floor area used in the configuration.
Firefighting operations in residential high-rise structures; apartment, condominiums, hotels, etc., will differ from those in office buildings or mixed-use commercial occupancies. The difference between operations would depend on the amount of compartmentalization vs. an open floor area used in the configuration.
As can be seen in the “Definitions” section above, the type of construction, fire suppression systems utilized, and type of occupancy can vary greatly for high-rise buildings. The one constant found in all high-rise buildings is the potential for large number of occupants.
As can be seen in the “Definitions” section above, the type of construction, fire suppression systems utilized, and type of occupancy can vary greatly for high-rise buildings. The one constant found in all high-rise buildings is the potential for large number of occupants.
As can be seen in the “Definitions” section above, the type of construction, fire suppression systems utilized, and type of occupancy can vary greatly for high-rise buildings. The one constant found in all high-rise buildings is the potential for large number of occupants.
As can be seen in the “Definitions” section above, the type of construction, fire suppression systems utilized, and type of occupancy can vary greatly for high-rise buildings. The one constant found in all high-rise buildings is the potential for large number of occupants.
Listed below, in order of importance, are the strategic objectives for a fire in a high-rise building:
- From the entry level/lobby area, the first arriving unit(s) will use initial dispatch information, annunciator panel indicators, and information received from occupants and building management to try to best determine the location of the fire and/or floors with smoke conditions.
Listed below, in order of importance, are the strategic objectives for a fire in a high-rise building:
- From the entry level/lobby area, the first arriving unit(s) will use initial dispatch information, annunciator panel indicators, and information received from occupants and building management to try to best determine the location of the fire and/or floors with smoke conditions.
- Positively confirm the location of the fire. Specific company assignments and strategies cannot be implemented until this is accomplished.
- Positively confirm the location of the fire. Specific company assignments and strategies cannot be implemented until this is accomplished.
- Rescue immediately affected occupants and gain control of the evacuation. This process should begin as soon as possible. Occupants will often begin self-evacuating prior to the arrival of firefighters. The fire department will designate an “Evacuation Stairwell (s)” for those occupants to be evacuated. Searches of the fire floor and floors above will be conducted so decisions regarding which occupants must be evacuated, which can be relocated to unaffected floors, and which can be “sheltered in place” can be determined.
- Rescue immediately affected occupants and gain control of the evacuation. This process should begin as soon as possible. Occupants will often begin self-evacuating prior to the arrival of firefighters. The fire department will designate an “Evacuation Stairwell (s)” for those occupants to be evacuated. Searches of the fire floor and floors above will be conducted so decisions regarding which occupants must be evacuated, which can be relocated to unaffected floors, and which can be “sheltered in place” can be determined.
- Gain control of the building systems. The fire department must gain control of the:
- Elevators
- Control the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (HVAC) (with the assistance of the Building Engineer).
- Fire pumps
- Building communications system
- Gain control of the building systems. The fire department must gain control of the:
- Elevators
- Control the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (HVAC) (with the assistance of the Building Engineer).
- Fire pumps
- Building communications system
- Confine and extinguish the fire.
- Confine and extinguish the fire.
Designation of the Attack Stairway
In order to protect occupants that are being evacuated and to eliminate occupant interference with firefighting operations, an “Attack Stairway” will be designated by 1st due Engine Company Officer
The “Attack Stairway” will be the stairwell from which the attack line(s) are advanced. Firefighters entering the building will use the “Attack Stairwell” to access the upper floors.
Designation of the Attack Stairway
In order to protect occupants that are being evacuated and to eliminate occupant interference with firefighting operations, an “Attack Stairway” will be designated by 1st due Engine Company Officer
The “Attack Stairway” will be the stairwell from which the attack line(s) are advanced. Firefighters entering the building will use the “Attack Stairwell” to access the upper floors.
The identification of the “Attack Stairway” will be made by using the number or alphabetical letter designation found on the stairway door signage in high-rise buildings built after the adoption of the new Fire Code.
The identification of the “Attack Stairway” will be made by using the number or alphabetical letter designation found on the stairway door signage in high-rise buildings built after the adoption of the new Fire Code.
The “Attack Stairway” will be designated prior to the “Evacuation Stairway”. Before this can be done, the location of the fire must be verified. The “Attack Stairway” will be the stairway that gives Engine Companies the most advantageous location from which to attack the fire. This should be based on the following factors:
The “Attack Stairway” will be designated prior to the “Evacuation Stairway”. Before this can be done, the location of the fire must be verified. The “Attack Stairway” will be the stairway that gives Engine Companies the most advantageous location from which to attack the fire. This should be based on the following factors:
- Distance from the fire.
- Fire and smoke conditions in the stairway and hallway. • The presence of, or lack of standpipe riser connections.
- Open or closed stairway construction.
- Vertical ventilation openings such as bulkhead doors, hatches, skylights, and windows which will be used to ventilate smoke, heat and gases from the fire floor when the “Attack Stairway” door is opened to allow hoseline advancement.
- Distance from the fire.
- Fire and smoke conditions in the stairway and hallway. • The presence of, or lack of standpipe riser connections.
- Open or closed stairway construction.
- Vertical ventilation openings such as bulkhead doors, hatches, skylights, and windows which will be used to ventilate smoke, heat and gases from the fire floor when the “Attack Stairway” door is opened to allow hoseline advancement.
Designation of the Evacuation Stairway
The “Evacuation Stairway” will be designated by the Incident Commander, based on the recommendations of Company Officers located on the interior. This shall occur after the location of the fire has been confirmed and the “Attack Stairway” has been designated.
Designation of the Evacuation Stairway
The “Evacuation Stairway” will be designated by the Incident Commander, based on the recommendations of Company Officers located on the interior. This shall occur after the location of the fire has been confirmed and the “Attack Stairway” has been designated.
The “Evacuation Stairway” will be utilized to evacuate occupants to the exterior and/or lower unaffected floors. More than one stairway may be designated as an “Evacuation Stair” if the size of the building, the number of occupants to be evacuated and the number of required firefighters are present to control the evacuations.
The “Evacuation Stairway” will be utilized to evacuate occupants to the exterior and/or lower unaffected floors. More than one stairway may be designated as an “Evacuation Stair” if the size of the building, the number of occupants to be evacuated and the number of required firefighters are present to control the evacuations.
Ventilation
Due to the height and size of high-rise buildings, ventilation operations will require discipline, coordination, communication, and continual evaluation to assess the effectiveness of the current plan and to determine if it has caused any adverse effects to firefighting operations.
Ventilation
Due to the height and size of high-rise buildings, ventilation operations will require discipline, coordination, communication, and continual evaluation to assess the effectiveness of the current plan and to determine if it has caused any adverse effects to firefighting operations.
General High-Rise Considerations (Five or more floors in height)
Incident Commanders shall give consideration to the following:
• Interior Rapid Intervention Group (one floor below the fire)
• Interior Staging (three floors below the fire)
• Lobby Control
• Establishing a hoseline independent from the standpipe system to backup the 1st due Engine Company.
Pre-connected line
Standpipe racks dropped down the outside of the building
Pre-connected line up aerial ladder
General High-Rise Considerations (Five or more floors in height)
Incident Commanders shall give consideration to the following:
• Interior Rapid Intervention Group (one floor below the fire)
• Interior Staging (three floors below the fire)
• Lobby Control
• Establishing a hoseline independent from the standpipe system to backup the 1st due Engine Company.
Pre-connected line
Standpipe racks dropped down the outside of the building
Pre-connected line up aerial ladder
Rapid Intervention Group inside of a High-Rise
The Rapid Intervention Group will be located HOW MANY? floor below the fire floor near a stairwell, ready for immediate deployment.
Rapid Intervention Group inside of a High-Rise
The Rapid Intervention Group will be located one (1) floor below the fire floor near a stairwell, ready for immediate deployment.
Fall Back Position
Fallback Position shall be two (2) floors below the fire. The purpose of the Fallback Position is to shelter Companies in the building, so an exterior knockdown of the fire can be attempted. Command will direct all interior Companies to the fallback position, and will conduct a roll call. Exterior knockdown will only begin after all Companies are accounted for.
The Fallback position will only be used in buildings of fire-resistive or noncombustible construction.
Fall Back Position
Fallback Position shall be two (2) floors below the fire. The purpose of the Fallback Position is to shelter Companies in the building, so an exterior knockdown of the fire can be attempted. Command will direct all interior Companies to the fallback position, and will conduct a roll call. Exterior knockdown will only begin after all Companies are accounted for.
The Fallback position will only be used in buildings of fire-resistive or noncombustible construction.
The Fallback Position shall not be used when the order is given to abandon the building.
The Fallback Position shall not be used when the order is given to abandon the building.
Interior Staging Inside of a High-Rise
Interior Staging inside a High-Rise shall be a minimum of three (3) floors below the fire floor. Interior Staging will be used by Command to gather relief Companies on an extended incident. Needed equipment, such as air cylinders, will be carried to the Interior Staging Area, reducing reaction time. Interior Staging shall be under the command of the Staging Officer, and units shall remain on the staging channel until given an assignment.
Interior Staging Inside of a High-Rise
Interior Staging inside a High-Rise shall be a minimum of three (3) floors below the fire floor. Interior Staging will be used by Command to gather relief Companies on an extended incident. Needed equipment, such as air cylinders, will be carried to the Interior Staging Area, reducing reaction time. Interior Staging shall be under the command of the Staging Officer, and units shall remain on the staging channel until given an assignment.
If radios must operate in the VRS mode Command will assign the channel Interior Staging will operate. The designation of a Staging Area inside a building shall be known as Interior Staging, whereas exterior staging will be designated as Base Staging.
If radios must operate in the VRS mode Command will assign the channel Interior Staging will operate. The designation of a Staging Area inside a building shall be known as Interior Staging, whereas exterior staging will be designated as Base Staging.
Lobby Control
Command will establish Lobby Control if the incident warrants. The responsibilities of Lobby Control are as follows:
• Control of elevators.
• Direct flow of personnel to attack stairwell or evacuation stairwell.
• Assist in civilian evacuation in lobby area.
• Verify unit deployment.
• Place Level III accountability in service when ordered by Command.
Act as Entry Control Officer.
Lobby Control
Command will establish Lobby Control if the incident warrants. The responsibilities of Lobby Control are as follows:
• Control of elevators.
• Direct flow of personnel to attack stairwell or evacuation stairwell.
• Assist in civilian evacuation in lobby area.
• Verify unit deployment.
• Place Level III accountability in service when ordered by Command.
Act as Entry Control Officer.
Elevator Operations
First arriving units shall control elevators that are equipped with the fireman’s control feature.
The fireman’s control key for the elevator is usually located on the wall next to the elevator on the lobby level. The Fire Alarm Box Key is used to gain access into the box containing the fireman’s control key.
Elevator Operations
First arriving units shall control elevators that are equipped with the fireman’s control feature.
The fireman’s control key for the elevator is usually located on the wall next to the elevator on the lobby level. The Fire Alarm Box Key is used to gain access into the box containing the fireman’s control key.
Elevators shall not be used during the initial attack in buildings having known working fires or where there are indications of a working fire based upon occupant information, or size-up, unless a unit has reported that the elevator bank is safe for use on the fire floor. Use of an elevator when there is not an indication of a working fire:
Elevators shall not be used during the initial attack in buildings having known working fires or where there are indications of a working fire based upon occupant information, or size-up, unless a unit has reported that the elevator bank is safe for use on the fire floor. Use of an elevator when there is not an indication of a working fire:
- Notify Command that you are planning to use the elevator.
- Use the Fire Alarm Box Key to access the elevator key to operate and take control of the elevator.
- Check for the location of the stairway(s) and apartment number in relation to the elevator.
- Everyone on the elevator must be wearing self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) with the cylinder valve open.
- Do not overcrowd the elevator in case you have to force open door or seek refuge on the floor.
- At least one member must have a portable radio and a flashlight.
- Carry forcible entry tools. They can be used to pry open elevator doors if the elevator fails to stop or controls don’t work.
- Prior to operating the floor button, shine a strong light up the shaft between the outer and inner doors to determine if smoke is in the shaft.
- Notify Command that you are planning to use the elevator.
- Use the Fire Alarm Box Key to access the elevator key to operate and take control of the elevator.
- Check for the location of the stairway(s) and apartment number in relation to the elevator.
- Everyone on the elevator must be wearing self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) with the cylinder valve open.
- Do not overcrowd the elevator in case you have to force open door or seek refuge on the floor.
- At least one member must have a portable radio and a flashlight.
- Carry forcible entry tools. They can be used to pry open elevator doors if the elevator fails to stop or controls don’t work.
- Prior to operating the floor button, shine a strong light up the shaft between the outer and inner doors to determine if smoke is in the shaft.
While going up in an elevator stop the car at the halfway point in order to:
- Test the elevator controls.
- Determine where the exits are in relation to the car doors.
- Shine light back up into the shaft to check for smoke.
While going up in an elevator stop the car at the halfway point in order to:
- Test the elevator controls.
- Determine where the exits are in relation to the car doors.
- Shine light back up into the shaft to check for smoke.
Stop the elevator two (2) floors below the reported fire floor. If the elevator will not stop, use the emergency stop button or force open the door to stop it.
Upon getting off the elevator, don’t release the elevator until you are sure it will no longer be needed.
Stop the elevator two (2) floors below the reported fire floor. If the elevator will not stop, use the emergency stop button or force open the door to stop it.
Upon getting off the elevator, don’t release the elevator until you are sure it will no longer be needed.
Attack Hoselines
Unless given specific orders, Engine Company Officers shall make a decision on which attack hoseline to advance based on the following factors to include, but not limited to:
Attack Hoselines
Unless given specific orders, Engine Company Officers shall make a decision on which attack hoseline to advance based on the following factors to include, but not limited to:
Standpipe Operations
Engine Companies operating attack hoselines from a standpipe system will adhere to the following guidelines:
• Wagon Drivers of the appropriate Engine Companies shall charge all exterior fire department connections for standpipes, sprinklers and/or combination systems at the appropriate pump pressure.
Standpipe Operations
Engine Companies operating attack hoselines from a standpipe system will adhere to the following guidelines:
• Wagon Drivers of the appropriate Engine Companies shall charge all exterior fire department connections for standpipes, sprinklers and/or combination systems at the appropriate pump pressure.
• It is permissible to connect supply lines to an interior riser connection if problems exist with an exterior siamese connection(s). Supply lines from Wagon’s will be considered the primary water supply for the building’s suppression systems and fire pumps will be considered as a secondary water source.
• It is permissible to connect supply lines to an interior riser connection if problems exist with an exterior siamese connection(s). Supply lines from Wagon’s will be considered the primary water supply for the building’s suppression systems and fire pumps will be considered as a secondary water source.
• The attack hoseline will be connected to the standpipe riser on the floor below the fire to provide members a tenable location where they can make needed connections without the use of SCBA, minimize the amount of hose on the stairway landing to the fire floor, and maximize the work area for members advancing or assisting with feeding hose from the stairway into the public hallway.
• The attack hoseline will be connected to the standpipe riser on the floor below the fire to provide members a tenable location where they can make needed connections without the use of SCBA, minimize the amount of hose on the stairway landing to the fire floor, and maximize the work area for members advancing or assisting with feeding hose from the stairway into the public hallway.
** Note: If the fire floor standpipe riser connection is located in the public hallway, as opposed to a protected stairway, it shall only be used if other viable options do not exist and the public hallway is not compromised (fire or smoke).
** Note: If the fire floor standpipe riser connection is located in the public hallway, as opposed to a protected stairway, it shall only be used if other viable options do not exist and the public hallway is not compromised (fire or smoke).
• The attack line will charged before entering the public hallway from the “Attack Stairway” if there is fire or smoke in the public hallway, the door to the fire area from the public hallway is not operational, or other factors justify a charged line for protection.
• The attack line will charged before entering the public hallway from the “Attack Stairway” if there is fire or smoke in the public hallway, the door to the fire area from the public hallway is not operational, or other factors justify a charged line for protection.
- A second attack hoseline may be supplied from the initial attack line’s riser connection if proper nozzle pressures and gallons per minute can be maintained in both attack lines.
- An initial attack hoseline must be operational before a second attack or backup line is placed into operation.
- A second attack hoseline may be supplied from the initial attack line’s riser connection if proper nozzle pressures and gallons per minute can be maintained in both attack lines.
- An initial attack hoseline must be operational before a second attack or backup line is placed into operation.
9.8 COMMERCIAL BUILDING FIRES
Commercial buildings present problems not usually found in residential occupancies. Large uninterrupted floor space, high fire loads, and restricted access make fighting fires in commercial buildings difficult. Commercial buildings are often not occupied after business hours, and risk assessment prior to fire attack should include recognition of reduced life hazard.
9.8 COMMERCIAL BUILDING FIRES
Commercial buildings present problems not usually found in residential occupancies. Large uninterrupted floor space, high fire loads, and restricted access make fighting fires in commercial buildings difficult. Commercial buildings are often not occupied after business hours, and risk assessment prior to fire attack should include recognition of reduced life hazard.
Construction components utilized to construct occupied rooftop areas are found to be combustible and it is unlikely that they are protected by a fire suppression system. Also, very few rooftop areas have more than two existing egress points.
Construction components utilized to construct occupied rooftop areas are found to be combustible and it is unlikely that they are protected by a fire suppression system. Also, very few rooftop areas have more than two existing egress points.
It shall be noted that all members operating on a rooftop need to remain cognizant of the edge during operations. If there is not a tall parapet or fence around the perimeter, the Incident Commander shall designate a safety company.
It shall be noted that all members operating on a rooftop need to remain cognizant of the edge during operations. If there is not a tall parapet or fence around the perimeter, the Incident Commander shall designate a safety company.
9.10 VACANT BUILDING POLICY
When a building is determined to be a vacant or otherwise unsafe structure, either through CAD notes, building inspection or on scene size-up(s), the Incident Commander will give the order to level one stage. Companies will follow the standard operating guidelines for level one staging with the exception that no members will enter the structure until the incident commander receives a thorough report
When a building is determined to be a vacant or otherwise unsafe structure, either through CAD notes, building inspection or on scene size-up(s), the Incident Commander will give the order to level one stage. Companies will follow the standard operating guidelines for level one staging with the exception that no members will enter the structure until the incident commander receives a thorough report
When a building is determined to be a vacant or otherwise unsafe structure, either through CAD notes, building inspection or on scene size-up(s), the Incident Commander will give the order to level one stage. Companies will follow the standard operating guidelines for level one staging with the exception that no members will enter the structure until the incident commander receives a thorough report from the first and second due engine and the first due truck as outlined below.
When a building is determined to be a vacant or otherwise unsafe structure, either through CAD notes, building inspection or on scene size-up(s), the Incident Commander will give the order to level one stage. Companies will follow the standard operating guidelines for level one staging with the exception that no members will enter the structure until the incident commander receives a thorough report from the first and second due engine and the first due truck as outlined below.
No companies will enter the structure until a thorough size up is conducted by or transmitted to the Incident Commander. A thorough size-up includes:
- Height of building
- Type of construction
- Type occupancy
- Conditions on arrival
- Identified placards
- Obvious hazards – structural condition
- Status of windows and doors (boarded, blocked, secured, open)
No companies will enter the structure until a thorough size up is conducted by or transmitted to the Incident Commander. A thorough size-up includes:
- Height of building
- Type of construction
- Type occupancy
- Conditions on arrival
- Identified placards
- Obvious hazards – structural condition
- Status of windows and doors (boarded, blocked, secured, open)
• The Incident Commander will ensure that all potential mantraps are removed (security bars, plywood/security screens covering doors and windows, roll down doors/gates, etc.) and that the structure is adequately ventilated prior to allowing any interior operations
• The Incident Commander will ensure that all potential mantraps are removed (security bars, plywood/security screens covering doors and windows, roll down doors/gates, etc.) and that the structure is adequately ventilated prior to allowing any interior operations
- When encountering a vacant structure that is fortified (heavily secured) and entry is delayed, Engine Companies shall apply water (utilizing a straight stream) from an exterior vantage point to the immediate fire area.
- Companies not assigned by Command will stage and be prepared for immediate assignment.
- When encountering a vacant structure that is fortified (heavily secured) and entry is delayed, Engine Companies shall apply water (utilizing a straight stream) from an exterior vantage point to the immediate fire area.
- Companies not assigned by Command will stage and be prepared for immediate assignment.
EXPOSURE COVERAGE
An exposure is defined as any area that is being directly threatened by fire and the products of combustion. This shall include all four sides, top, bottom and concealed spaces of a building.
EXPOSURE COVERAGE
An exposure is defined as any area that is being directly threatened by fire and the products of combustion. This shall include all four sides, top, bottom and concealed spaces of a building.
When organizing an incident involving an occupancy with multiple units/apartments, the term “exposure(s)” shall refer to a separate building and not the adjacent units (fire floor/floor(s) above). Adjacent units/apartments shall be placed under the responsibility of a Division or Group Supervisor.
When organizing an incident involving an occupancy with multiple units/apartments, the term “exposure(s)” shall refer to a separate building and not the adjacent units (fire floor/floor(s) above). Adjacent units/apartments shall be placed under the responsibility of a Division or Group Supervisor.
Companies assigned to cover an exposure will work as one team, staying together and checking each assigned exposure in turn. This task can be assigned to an Engine, Truck or Rescue Squad as the incident needs dictate.
Companies assigned to cover exposures shall:
• Check the most threatened exposure building first. The check shall be for both horizontal and vertical extension of fire.
• Consider:
o Hose Line o Ceiling Hooks o Halligan Bar o Lights o Stepladder
Companies assigned to cover an exposure will work as one team, staying together and checking each assigned exposure in turn. This task can be assigned to an Engine, Truck or Rescue Squad as the incident needs dictate.
Companies assigned to cover exposures shall:
• Check the most threatened exposure building first. The check shall be for both horizontal and vertical extension of fire.
• Consider:
o Hose Line o Ceiling Hooks o Halligan Bar o Lights o Stepladder
- Report conditions to Command or, if assigned to a Group/Division/Branch, report to the Supervisor/Director.
- Reports on the conditions in the exposure shall be given every 10 minutes or less if needed.
- The company shall remain in assigned exposure unless Command assigns the company to a different task.
- Report conditions to Command or, if assigned to a Group/Division/Branch, report to the Supervisor/Director.
- Reports on the conditions in the exposure shall be given every 10 minutes or less if needed.
- The company shall remain in assigned exposure unless Command assigns the company to a different task.
The Incident Commander will use the following procedure to change from the offensive to the defensive strategy.
- Declare Priority radio traffic only over the tactical radio channel.
- Announce the change from the offensive strategy to the defensive strategy and direct the withdrawal of companies utilizing the guidelines for building evacuation below.
- The Incident Commander will conduct a roll call from all units that were operating on the interior of the structure.
- Before the Incident Commander implements a defensive operation, all companies that were operating on the interior must confirm the roll call.
- Collapse zones should be identified and all personnel and apparatus must be moved out/away from them.
The Incident Commander will use the following procedure to change from the offensive to the defensive strategy.
- Declare Priority radio traffic only over the tactical radio channel.
- Announce the change from the offensive strategy to the defensive strategy and direct the withdrawal of companies utilizing the guidelines for building evacuation below.
- The Incident Commander will conduct a roll call from all units that were operating on the interior of the structure.
- Before the Incident Commander implements a defensive operation, all companies that were operating on the interior must confirm the roll call.
- Collapse zones should be identified and all personnel and apparatus must be moved out/away from them.
Building Evacuation
If the decision is made to evacuate the building the following procedures shall be followed.
- Begin to back companies out of the building, using hoselines for protection. The removal of hoselines from the building will not take place until all members involved in the search and interior operations on the floors above the basement have exited the building.
- All personnel shall notify their officer when exiting the building.
- All members must immediately report to their apparatus for an accountability check.
- Command will conduct a quick informal roll call to verify that units that were operating inside the structure have exited, and will then begin a formal roll call.
Building Evacuation
If the decision is made to evacuate the building the following procedures shall be followed.
- Begin to back companies out of the building, using hoselines for protection. The removal of hoselines from the building will not take place until all members involved in the search and interior operations on the floors above the basement have exited the building.
- All personnel shall notify their officer when exiting the building.
- All members must immediately report to their apparatus for an accountability check.
- Command will conduct a quick informal roll call to verify that units that were operating inside the structure have exited, and will then begin a formal roll call.
Building Abandonment
Building abandonment occurs when a life threatening emergency situation exits that does not allow time for the systematic removal of personnel. Command shall announce over the tactical channel that the decision has been made to abandon the building. Immediately ALL personnel shall exit the building.
Building Abandonment
Building abandonment occurs when a life threatening emergency situation exits that does not allow time for the systematic removal of personnel. Command shall announce over the tactical channel that the decision has been made to abandon the building. Immediately ALL personnel shall exit the building.
The Incident Commander shall notify Communications Division that the order to abandon the building has been issued and request an extended tone with the announcement on the tactical channel that “All units are to abandon the building.”
The decision to abandon the building by the IC shall be made whenever there are conditions that make it unsafe to operate in the building including:
- anticipated imminent collapse
- explosion
- uncontrollable fire conditions
The Incident Commander shall notify Communications Division that the order to abandon the building has been issued and request an extended tone with the announcement on the tactical channel that “All units are to abandon the building.”
The decision to abandon the building by the IC shall be made whenever there are conditions that make it unsafe to operate in the building including:
- anticipated imminent collapse
- explosion
- uncontrollable fire conditions
Companies ordered out of the building will promptly leave the building. All personnel shall stay together maintaining unit integrity, and shall report to WHERE? for an accountability check. Company officers shall verify the location of ALL members assigned to the unit.
Companies ordered out of the building will promptly leave the building. All personnel shall stay together maintaining unit integrity, and shall report to their apparatus for an accountability check. Company officers shall verify the location of ALL members assigned to the unit.
Command will conduct a quick informal roll call to verify that units that were operating inside the structure have exited, and will then begin a formal roll call.
Command will conduct a quick informal roll call to verify that units that were operating inside the structure have exited, and will then begin a formal roll call.
DO NOT TAKE THE WHEREABOUTS OF ANY MEMBER FOR GRANTED. VERIFY EVERYONE’S LOCATION AND CONDITION!
Units may prepare for exterior operations, but exterior operations shall not begin until roll call has been completed.
DO NOT TAKE THE WHEREABOUTS OF ANY MEMBER FOR GRANTED. VERIFY EVERYONE’S LOCATION AND CONDITION!
Units may prepare for exterior operations, but exterior operations shall not begin until roll call has been completed.
2 1ST DUE ENGINE COMPANY
Apparatus Positioning
The 1st due Engine Company shall assume a position to attack the fire from the front of the building or the address side, Side A-Alpha. Apparatus shall be positioned, with the collapse zone in-mind and ensure there will be room for the 1st due Truck Company to ladder the building. This is normally accomplished by pulling past the address. However, if it is known that the Truck Company will enter the block from the opposite direction, the Engine shall stop short to allow access to ladder the building.
2 1ST DUE ENGINE COMPANY
Apparatus Positioning
The 1st due Engine Company shall assume a position to attack the fire from the front of the building or the address side, Side A-Alpha. Apparatus shall be positioned, with the collapse zone in-mind and ensure there will be room for the 1st due Truck Company to ladder the building. This is normally accomplished by pulling past the address. However, if it is known that the Truck Company will enter the block from the opposite direction, the Engine shall stop short to allow access to ladder the building.
Water Supply Responsibilities
The 1st due Engine Company shall be responsible for securing a continuous/adequate water supply by laying out hydrant-to-fire, reverse lay-out, split layout or taking their own hydrant. They shall assume a position to attack the fire from the front of the building, the address side, Side A-Alpha.
Water Supply Responsibilities
The 1st due Engine Company shall be responsible for securing a continuous/adequate water supply by laying out hydrant-to-fire, reverse lay-out, split layout or taking their own hydrant. They shall assume a position to attack the fire from the front of the building, the address side, Side A-Alpha.
Structural Fire Responsibilities
- Position on the address side of the structure, Side A-Alpha.
- Gives a complete size-up and establishes Command (if first arriving).
- Performs a 360-degree size-up of the fire building. Upon completion, a radio update will be given of conditions found. If the 360-degree size-up is unable to be completed (construction type/size, fences, obstructions, etc.) the 1st due Battalion Fire Chief shall be notified. The 2nd due Engine or Truck Company in the rear can provide this information if already in position to do so.
- Stretches an appropriate size/length hoseline to cover all areas of responsibility.
- Shall not proceed above a floor with smoke/fire.
- Shall provide C.A.N. reports as applicable.
- Upon assumption of Command by the 1st due Battalion Fire Chief, may be assigned to either a Division (geographic location in which the fire is located) or Group.
Structural Fire Responsibilities
- Position on the address side of the structure, Side A-Alpha.
- Gives a complete size-up and establishes Command (if first arriving).
- Performs a 360-degree size-up of the fire building. Upon completion, a radio update will be given of conditions found. If the 360-degree size-up is unable to be completed (construction type/size, fences, obstructions, etc.) the 1st due Battalion Fire Chief shall be notified. The 2nd due Engine or Truck Company in the rear can provide this information if already in position to do so.
- Stretches an appropriate size/length hoseline to cover all areas of responsibility.
- Shall not proceed above a floor with smoke/fire.
- Shall provide C.A.N. reports as applicable.
- Upon assumption of Command by the 1st due Battalion Fire Chief, may be assigned to either a Division (geographic location in which the fire is located) or Group.
Basement Fires
English Basement Entrance – If there is an English Basement entrance, the 1st due Engine Company has the option to make entry and attack the basement fire from that location. The Incident Commander shall assure that hoselines are in-place for back-up and the floors above.
Basement Fires
English Basement Entrance – If there is an English Basement entrance, the 1st due Engine Company has the option to make entry and attack the basement fire from that location. The Incident Commander shall assure that hoselines are in-place for back-up and the floors above.
No English Basement Entrance – Stretches an appropriate size/length hoseline to cover the first floor:
- Assess the conditions at the threshold of the front door.
- Enter the foyer inside the front door and assess the conditions.
- Protect the stairs between the 1st and 2nd floors.
No English Basement Entrance – Stretches an appropriate size/length hoseline to cover the first floor:
- Assess the conditions at the threshold of the front door.
- Enter the foyer inside the front door and assess the conditions.
- Protect the stairs between the 1st and 2nd floors.
No English Basement Entrance – Stretches an appropriate size/length hoseline to cover the first floor:
- Assess the conditions at the threshold of the front door.
- Enter the foyer inside the front door and assess the conditions.
- Protect the stairs between the 1st and 2nd floors.
No English Basement Entrance – Stretches an appropriate size/length hoseline to cover the first floor:
- Assess the conditions at the threshold of the front door.
- Enter the foyer inside the front door and assess the conditions.
- Protect the stairs between the 1st and 2nd floors.
If conditions allow further advancement, the next priority will be to locate the basement stairs and provide protection for the rescue operation from this position by closing the basement door, if possible. If there is no door at the top of the stairs or it will not close, a hoseline directed at the 1st floor ceiling above the basement doorway would provide limited protection.
If conditions allow further advancement, the next priority will be to locate the basement stairs and provide protection for the rescue operation from this position by closing the basement door, if possible. If there is no door at the top of the stairs or it will not close, a hoseline directed at the 1st floor ceiling above the basement doorway would provide limited protection.
• Upon completing the initial size-up, if there is an accessible basement entrance (on any side of the structure), the 1st due Engine Company Officer shall make entry and attack the fire from that location. This decision shall be relayed via the Incident Talk Group to notify incoming units.
• Upon completing the initial size-up, if there is an accessible basement entrance (on any side of the structure), the 1st due Engine Company Officer shall make entry and attack the fire from that location. This decision shall be relayed via the Incident Talk Group to notify incoming units.
• If conditions are tenable and a charged hoseline is present, the 1st due Engine Company may descend the interior basement stairs. This decision shall be relayed via the Incident Talk Group to notify incoming units.
• If conditions are tenable and a charged hoseline is present, the 1st due Engine Company may descend the interior basement stairs. This decision shall be relayed via the Incident Talk Group to notify incoming units.
• If there is not an exterior basement entrance and interior conditions don’t allow for descending the interior basement stairs, the 1st due Engine Company shall back out of the structure and position their hoseline to apply a straight stream through an exterior window.
• If there is not an exterior basement entrance and interior conditions don’t allow for descending the interior basement stairs, the 1st due Engine Company shall back out of the structure and position their hoseline to apply a straight stream through an exterior window.
High Rise Fires
• Initiates an offensive attack if appropriate by one of the following methods:
Stretching a pre-connected hoseline;
Entering the building with standpipe racks;
Entering the building with 2 ½” hoseline with at least a 1 1/8” tip;
Entering the building with a combination of a pre-connected hoseline and standpipe racks.
High Rise Fires
• Initiates an offensive attack if appropriate by one of the following methods:
Stretching a pre-connected hoseline;
Entering the building with standpipe racks;
Entering the building with 2 ½” hoseline with at least a 1 1/8” tip;
Entering the building with a combination of a pre-connected hoseline and standpipe racks.
- Is responsible for charging or having another unit charge both the standpipe system and the sprinkler system on Side A-Alpha.
- Shall locate and review the annunciator panel and report findings.
- Shall locate and retrieve building keys from the knox box.
- Shall give appropriate interior size-ups:
- Conditions in the lobby area.
- Conditions in the stairwells.
- Conditions on the reported fire floor.
- Conditions at the door, and inside the fire apartment.
- Is responsible for the designation of the attack stairwell.
- Shall quickly check the hallway of a lower floor for information on building layout.
- Is responsible for charging or having another unit charge both the standpipe system and the sprinkler system on Side A-Alpha.
- Shall locate and review the annunciator panel and report findings.
- Shall locate and retrieve building keys from the knox box.
- Shall give appropriate interior size-ups:
- Conditions in the lobby area.
- Conditions in the stairwells.
- Conditions on the reported fire floor.
- Conditions at the door, and inside the fire apartment.
- Is responsible for the designation of the attack stairwell.
- Shall quickly check the hallway of a lower floor for information on building layout.
Commercial Building Fires
- On large buildings, where the hoseline stretch will exceed 200-feet in the IDLH atmosphere, the 1st due Engine Company shall attempt to enter the building from an alternate location, closest to the fire area (regardless of the side). This shall be communicated to responding units. Adjustments shall be made by companies to assure that the opposite side of the building is covered.
- Consider building construction and access/egress challenges:
Commercial Building Fires
- On large buildings, where the hoseline stretch will exceed 200-feet in the IDLH atmosphere, the 1st due Engine Company shall attempt to enter the building from an alternate location, closest to the fire area (regardless of the side). This shall be communicated to responding units. Adjustments shall be made by companies to assure that the opposite side of the building is covered.
- Consider building construction and access/egress challenges:
Access/Egress Challenges
- Roll-Up Security Doors/Gates
- Reinforced Metal Doors
- Security Window Bars
- Windowless Building (Cold Storage Type Building)
- Street Level Security Grates (Basement/Cellar Access)
Access/Egress Challenges
- Roll-Up Security Doors/Gates
- Reinforced Metal Doors
- Security Window Bars
- Windowless Building (Cold Storage Type Building)
- Street Level Security Grates (Basement/Cellar Access)
• For Offensive Attack, begins operations by:
Stretching a pre-connected hoseline;
2 ½” hoseline (with an 1-1/8” tip or greater) shall be considered;
The 3rd due Engine Company shall assist the 1st due Engine Company with stretching their 2 ½” hoseline.
Entering the building with standpipe racks;
Entering the building with a combination of a pre-connected hoseline and standpipe racks;
Entering the building with a 2 ½” line for use off the standpipe system, with 1 ½” standpipe racks to extend the 2 ½” line.
• For Offensive Attack, begins operations by:
Stretching a pre-connected hoseline;
2 ½” hoseline (with an 1-1/8” tip or greater) shall be considered;
The 3rd due Engine Company shall assist the 1st due Engine Company with stretching their 2 ½” hoseline.
Entering the building with standpipe racks;
Entering the building with a combination of a pre-connected hoseline and standpipe racks;
Entering the building with a 2 ½” line for use off the standpipe system, with 1 ½” standpipe racks to extend the 2 ½” line.
• For Defensive attack:
Positions apparatus clear of collapse zones.
Positions apparatus for best use of heavy duty devices.
Secures adequate water supply. Shall lay dual lines, unless taking own hydrant.
Advises responding units of best access.
• Is responsible for charging or having another unit charge both the standpipe system and the sprinkler system on side A-Alpha.
• Monitors crew SCBA air supply.
• For Defensive attack:
Positions apparatus clear of collapse zones.
Positions apparatus for best use of heavy duty devices.
Secures adequate water supply. Shall lay dual lines, unless taking own hydrant.
Advises responding units of best access.
• Is responsible for charging or having another unit charge both the standpipe system and the sprinkler system on side A-Alpha.
• Monitors crew SCBA air supply.
Roof Top Fires
- Stretches an appropriate size/length hoseline to the interior of the building, checking for smoke/fire on each floor from the entrance point to the highest floor.
- If all floors are clear and the roof is accessible, shall begin fire attack on the roof.
Roof Top Fires
- Stretches an appropriate size/length hoseline to the interior of the building, checking for smoke/fire on each floor from the entrance point to the highest floor.
- If all floors are clear and the roof is accessible, shall begin fire attack on the roof.
2ND DUE ENGINE COMPANY
Apparatus Positioning
The 2nd due Engine Company shall assume a position to prepare to attack the fire from the rear of the building, Side C-Charlie, normally opposite of the 1st due Engine Company.
2ND DUE ENGINE COMPANY
Apparatus Positioning
The 2nd due Engine Company shall assume a position to prepare to attack the fire from the rear of the building, Side C-Charlie, normally opposite of the 1st due Engine Company.
Water Supply Responsibilities
The 2nd due Engine Company shall be responsible for securing a continuous/adequate water supply by laying out hydrant-to-fire, split layout or taking their own hydrant. If the 2nd due Engine Company must utilize a split layout on a Local Alarm, Command has the option of redirecting the 3rd due Engine Company to the rear to complete the 2nd due
Engine Company’s split layout. However, the 3rd due Engine Company’s primary responsibility is to complete the 1st due Engine Company’s layout. It is important that the 2nd due Engine Company, whenever possible, rely on hydrant to fire layout for their water supply.
Water Supply Responsibilities
The 2nd due Engine Company shall be responsible for securing a continuous/adequate water supply by laying out hydrant-to-fire, split layout or taking their own hydrant. If the 2nd due Engine Company must utilize a split layout on a Local Alarm, Command has the option of redirecting the 3rd due Engine Company to the rear to complete the 2nd due
Engine Company’s split layout. However, the 3rd due Engine Company’s primary responsibility is to complete the 1st due Engine Company’s layout. It is important that the 2nd due Engine Company, whenever possible, rely on hydrant to fire layout for their water supply.
Structural Fire Responsibilities
- Immediately notify the Incident Commander of any delay to the rear or access issues.
- Positions in the rear of the building, Side C-Charlie.
- Gives a complete size-up.
- Stretches an appropriate size/length hoseline to cover all areas of responsibility.
- Shall provide C.A.N. reports as applicable.
Structural Fire Responsibilities
- Immediately notify the Incident Commander of any delay to the rear or access issues.
- Positions in the rear of the building, Side C-Charlie.
- Gives a complete size-up.
- Stretches an appropriate size/length hoseline to cover all areas of responsibility.
- Shall provide C.A.N. reports as applicable.
Structural Fire Responsibilities
- Immediately notify the Incident Commander of any delay to the rear or access issues.
- Positions in the rear of the building, Side C-Charlie.
- Gives a complete size-up.
- Stretches an appropriate size/length hoseline to cover all areas of responsibility.
- Shall provide C.A.N. reports as applicable.
Structural Fire Responsibilities
- Immediately notify the Incident Commander of any delay to the rear or access issues.
- Positions in the rear of the building, Side C-Charlie.
- Gives a complete size-up.
- Stretches an appropriate size/length hoseline to cover all areas of responsibility.
- Shall provide C.A.N. reports as applicable.
• After assuring the basement level is clear, Command will assign the 2nd due Engine Company to the floor above the fire, to the most severely threatened exposures or any other priority area.
• After assuring the basement level is clear, Command will assign the 2nd due Engine Company to the floor above the fire, to the most severely threatened exposures or any other priority area.
Basement Fires
• Simultaneously begin to attack the basement fire (without delay) while notifying the Incident Commander of actions.
• If no basement entrance exists, the 2nd due Engine Company shall notify Command. Command shall consider the following options:
If conditions are tenable, Command may make the decision to have the 1st due Engine Company to descend the interior basement stairs.
Command may direct the 2nd due Engine Company to apply a straight stream through an exterior window as the 1st due Engine Company is protecting the rescue effort. Once fire is knocked down, Command may direct a Company to descend the basement stairs, when conditions allow.
Consider cutting holes in floor and using revolving distributor nozzles.
Basement Fires
• Simultaneously begin to attack the basement fire (without delay) while notifying the Incident Commander of actions.
• If no basement entrance exists, the 2nd due Engine Company shall notify Command. Command shall consider the following options:
If conditions are tenable, Command may make the decision to have the 1st due Engine Company to descend the interior basement stairs.
Command may direct the 2nd due Engine Company to apply a straight stream through an exterior window as the 1st due Engine Company is protecting the rescue effort. Once fire is knocked down, Command may direct a Company to descend the basement stairs, when conditions allow.
Consider cutting holes in floor and using revolving distributor nozzles.
Rear Porch Fires
- Thought shall be given to utilizing a 2 ½” hoseline with a 1 1/8th tip if there is considerable involvement of attached rear porches.
- Verifies the conditions in the basement, if possible and notifies Command.
- Secures the utilities, if possible and notifies Command of their status.
- After assuring that the basement level is clear and exterior fire is knocked down, notify Command, making recommendations to cover the exposure(s) in greatest danger.
Rear Porch Fires
- Thought shall be given to utilizing a 2 ½” hoseline with a 1 1/8th tip if there is considerable involvement of attached rear porches.
- Verifies the conditions in the basement, if possible and notifies Command.
- Secures the utilities, if possible and notifies Command of their status.
- After assuring that the basement level is clear and exterior fire is knocked down, notify Command, making recommendations to cover the exposure(s) in greatest danger.
• While operating on the exterior of rear porch fires, a flanking tactic shall be utilized to limit horizontal/vertical fire spread. This shall be done prior to entering the basement/exposure(s) and in conjunction with Engine Companies operating on the interior of the structure.
• While operating on the exterior of rear porch fires, a flanking tactic shall be utilized to limit horizontal/vertical fire spread. This shall be done prior to entering the basement/exposure(s) and in conjunction with Engine Companies operating on the interior of the structure.
High Rise Fires
• After checking the basement, they will request their next assignment from Command:
Back-up 1st due Engine Company;
Cover the floor(s) above the fire;
Cover adjacent units on either side of fire.
High Rise Fires
• After checking the basement, they will request their next assignment from Command:
Back-up 1st due Engine Company;
Cover the floor(s) above the fire;
Cover adjacent units on either side of fire.
Commercial Building Fires
• Consider building construction and access/egress challenges:
Construction
- Lightweight Steel or Wood Truss Construction.
- Large floor area.
- Commercial Hi-rise.
- Occupancy and Contents.
- Rack and suspended ceiling storage.
Commercial Building Fires
• Consider building construction and access/egress challenges:
Construction
- Lightweight Steel or Wood Truss Construction.
- Large floor area.
- Commercial Hi-rise.
- Occupancy and Contents.
- Rack and suspended ceiling storage.
Roof Top Fires
• Shall be responsible for fire suppression efforts on the floor directly below the roof, to include the cockloft or attic space.
Roof Top Fires
• Shall be responsible for fire suppression efforts on the floor directly below the roof, to include the cockloft or attic space.
3RD DUE ENGINE COMPANY
Apparatus Positioning
The 3rd due Engine Company’s apparatus shall take a position at the location of the 1st due Engine Company’s water supply. If the 1st due Engine Company has their own hydrant, the 3rd due Engine Company will layout from an independent hydrant, and report to Side A-Alpha of the fire building.
3RD DUE ENGINE COMPANY
Apparatus Positioning
The 3rd due Engine Company’s apparatus shall take a position at the location of the 1st due Engine Company’s water supply. If the 1st due Engine Company has their own hydrant, the 3rd due Engine Company will layout from an independent hydrant, and report to Side A-Alpha of the fire building.
Water Supply Responsibilities
The primary responsibility of the 3rd due Engine Company is to ensure the continuous/adequate water supply of the 1st due Engine Company. While responding, the 3rd due Engine Company shall acknowledge the 1st due Engine Company’s hydrant position on the tactical channel (without prompt from the responding Battalion Fire Chief).
Water Supply Responsibilities
The primary responsibility of the 3rd due Engine Company is to ensure the continuous/adequate water supply of the 1st due Engine Company. While responding, the 3rd due Engine Company shall acknowledge the 1st due Engine Company’s hydrant position on the tactical channel (without prompt from the responding Battalion Fire Chief).
Command shall designate the 5th due Engine Company to pick-up the 3rd due Engine Company’s supply line(s). This does not relieve the 5th due Engine Company from fulfilling their Rapid Intervention Group duties.
Command shall designate the 5th due Engine Company to pick-up the 3rd due Engine Company’s supply line(s). This does not relieve the 5th due Engine Company from fulfilling their Rapid Intervention Group duties.
• Backs up the 1st due Engine Company with a second hoseline.
In general, advance no more than two hoselines up the interior stairs at one time.
If additional lines are required, alternate routes shall be considered (Over ladders, entry through windows, alternate stairwells, etc.).
• Backs up the 1st due Engine Company with a second hoseline.
In general, advance no more than two hoselines up the interior stairs at one time.
If additional lines are required, alternate routes shall be considered (Over ladders, entry through windows, alternate stairwells, etc.).
- Upon assumption of Command by the 1st due Battalion Fire Chief, shall verify that they are backing-up the 1st due Engine Company and assign them to the Division on the fire floor or to the Attack Group.
- Under certain conditions, Command may assign the 3rd due Engine Company to the floor above the fire, Exposures or any other priority area.
- Upon assumption of Command by the 1st due Battalion Fire Chief, shall verify that they are backing-up the 1st due Engine Company and assign them to the Division on the fire floor or to the Attack Group.
- Under certain conditions, Command may assign the 3rd due Engine Company to the floor above the fire, Exposures or any other priority area.
Basement Fires
- Performs the same risk assessment as the 1st due Engine Company.
- The 3rd due Engine Company may be ordered by Command to attack the fire from the front basement entrance (English basement).
- Coordination of this attack must take place between the 1st due Engine Company, 2nd due Engine Company and the 3rd due Engine Company.
- If permission is granted by Command, they will be assigned to the Basement Division or Attack Group. The WFD Engine Company may be assigned to back-up the hoseline.
Basement Fires
- Performs the same risk assessment as the 1st due Engine Company.
- The 3rd due Engine Company may be ordered by Command to attack the fire from the front basement entrance (English basement).
- Coordination of this attack must take place between the 1st due Engine Company, 2nd due Engine Company and the 3rd due Engine Company.
- If permission is granted by Command, they will be assigned to the Basement Division or Attack Group. The WFD Engine Company may be assigned to back-up the hoseline.
- If the 3rd due Engine Company is committed to assisting the 1st due Engine Company with the initial hoseline, the Incident Commander shall designate an additional Engine Company to provide a back-up line.
- Monitors crew SCBA air supply.
- Under certain conditions, Command may assign the 3rd due Engine Company to the floor above the fire, Exposures or any other priority area.
- If the 3rd due Engine Company is committed to assisting the 1st due Engine Company with the initial hoseline, the Incident Commander shall designate an additional Engine Company to provide a back-up line.
- Monitors crew SCBA air supply.
- Under certain conditions, Command may assign the 3rd due Engine Company to the floor above the fire, Exposures or any other priority area.
Roof Top Fires
• During a rooftop fire, backing up the 1st due Engine Company shall be accomplished by advancing a hoseline over a ladder (aerial or portable ground ladder) directly to the roof. Lowering or hoisting a hoseline can also accomplish this tactic.
Roof Top Fires
• During a rooftop fire, backing up the 1st due Engine Company shall be accomplished by advancing a hoseline over a ladder (aerial or portable ground ladder) directly to the roof. Lowering or hoisting a hoseline can also accomplish this tactic.
4th DUE ENGINE COMPANY
Apparatus Positioning
The 4th due Engine Company’s apparatus shall take a position at the location of the 2nd due Engine Company’s water supply.
4th DUE ENGINE COMPANY
Apparatus Positioning
The 4th due Engine Company’s apparatus shall take a position at the location of the 2nd due Engine Company’s water supply.
Command shall designate the 5th due Engine Company to pick-up the 4th due Engine Company’s supply line(s), if they have not already been tasked with picking-up the 3rd due Engine Company’s supply line(s).
Command shall designate the 5th due Engine Company to pick-up the 4th due Engine Company’s supply line(s), if they have not already been tasked with picking-up the 3rd due Engine Company’s supply line(s).
- Backs up the 2nd due Engine, and assists with flanking efforts from a position opposite of the 2nd due Engine Company, if applicable. This tactic shall be utilized to limit horizontal/vertical fire spread. This shall be done prior to entering the basement/exposure(s) and in conjunction with Engine Companies operating on the interior of the structure.
- Most likely they will be assigned to the exposure opposite the exposure covered by the 2nd due Engine Company.
- Backs up the 2nd due Engine, and assists with flanking efforts from a position opposite of the 2nd due Engine Company, if applicable. This tactic shall be utilized to limit horizontal/vertical fire spread. This shall be done prior to entering the basement/exposure(s) and in conjunction with Engine Companies operating on the interior of the structure.
- Most likely they will be assigned to the exposure opposite the exposure covered by the 2nd due Engine Company.
High Rise Fires
• Covers the floor above the fire unless otherwise directed by Command.
Commercial Building Fires
- Shall contact Command for assignment after the 2nd due Engine Company has verified that the fire is not in the basement.
- Monitors crew SCBA air supply.
High Rise Fires
• Covers the floor above the fire unless otherwise directed by Command.
Commercial Building Fires
- Shall contact Command for assignment after the 2nd due Engine Company has verified that the fire is not in the basement.
- Monitors crew SCBA air supply.
Water Supply Responsibilities
The 5th due Engine Company will be responsible for securing a water supply from an independent hydrant (if not assigned to pick-up the 3rd or 4th due Engine Company’s water supply).
Water Supply Responsibilities
The 5th due Engine Company will be responsible for securing a water supply from an independent hydrant (if not assigned to pick-up the 3rd or 4th due Engine Company’s water supply).
Structural Fire Responsibilities
The 5th due Engine Company will be assigned to the Rapid Intervention Group and will be responsible for the following:
• Notify Command of location of hydrant.
• Stretch an appropriate size/length hoseline to cover all areas of responsibility.
• Report to the Command Post with UDC.
• Advance hoselines as necessary to protect the Rapid Intervention operations by establishing a defendable area.
• Coordinate efforts with the Incident Commander or MAYDAY Branch
Director (if established
Structural Fire Responsibilities
The 5th due Engine Company will be assigned to the Rapid Intervention Group and will be responsible for the following:
• Notify Command of location of hydrant.
• Stretch an appropriate size/length hoseline to cover all areas of responsibility.
• Report to the Command Post with UDC.
• Advance hoselines as necessary to protect the Rapid Intervention operations by establishing a defendable area.
• Coordinate efforts with the Incident Commander or MAYDAY Branch
Director (if established
WFD Engine Company
Apparatus Positioning
The primary responsibility of the WFD Engine Company is to assume a position at the 5th due Engine Company’s water supply. If this action is not necessary, the WFD Engine Company shall stop at an independent water supply approximately one (1) block away from the incident. Upon completing this, the WFD Engine Company shall contact Command and stand-by until given an assignment.
WFD Engine Company
Apparatus Positioning
The primary responsibility of the WFD Engine Company is to assume a position at the 5th due Engine Company’s water supply. If this action is not necessary, the WFD Engine Company shall stop at an independent water supply approximately one (1) block away from the incident. Upon completing this, the WFD Engine Company shall contact Command and stand-by until given an assignment.
Structural Fire Responsibilities
• Command may give the WFD Engine Company any task or assignment including but not limited to the Safety Group, Lobby Control, Communications Group, Rapid Intervention Group, Exposure Group, Water Supply Group, etc.
Structural Fire Responsibilities
• Command may give the WFD Engine Company any task or assignment including but not limited to the Safety Group, Lobby Control, Communications Group, Rapid Intervention Group, Exposure Group, Water Supply Group, etc.
1ST DUE TRUCK COMPANY
Apparatus Positioning
The 1st due Truck Company shall assume a position as to place the aerial ladder to the front of the building or the address side, Side A-Alpha. Apparatus shall be positioned, with the collapse zone in-mind. Positioning may be dependent on the conditions encountered upon arrival.
1ST DUE TRUCK COMPANY
Apparatus Positioning
The 1st due Truck Company shall assume a position as to place the aerial ladder to the front of the building or the address side, Side A-Alpha. Apparatus shall be positioned, with the collapse zone in-mind. Positioning may be dependent on the conditions encountered upon arrival.
• The Company Officer shall ensure that ventilation is controlled until a charged hoseline is in-place.
• The Company Officer shall ensure that ventilation is controlled until a charged hoseline is in-place.
• Coordinates ventilation, both vertical and horizontal, with attacking Engine Companies and second due Truck Company.
Do not over-ventilate the basement level (taking out sliding glass doors, or large windows) prior to having a charged hoseline in-place.
Opens natural roof openings (Skylights, hatches and bulkheads).
• Coordinates ventilation, both vertical and horizontal, with attacking Engine Companies and second due Truck Company.
Do not over-ventilate the basement level (taking out sliding glass doors, or large windows) prior to having a charged hoseline in-place.
Opens natural roof openings (Skylights, hatches and bulkheads).
- Places portable ground ladder(s) to Side A-Alpha in the order of priority (firefloor, floor above, top-floor and roof).
- Places portable ground ladder(s) to Sides B-Bravo and D-Delta, as the situation requires in order of priority (fire-floor, floor above, top-floor, roof).
- Places their aerial ladder in position for rescue(s).
- Places portable ground ladder(s) to Side A-Alpha in the order of priority (firefloor, floor above, top-floor and roof).
- Places portable ground ladder(s) to Sides B-Bravo and D-Delta, as the situation requires in order of priority (fire-floor, floor above, top-floor, roof).
- Places their aerial ladder in position for rescue(s).
If no rescues are to be made, or rescues are being covered by portable ground ladders, place aerial ladder for access to the roof.
If no rescues are to be made, or rescues are being covered by portable ground ladders, place aerial ladder for access to the roof.
- After outside duties are complete, searches for victims throughout the first floor and above, coordinating their movements in the building with the placement of protecting hose lines.
- Is responsible for overhaul and salvage in their assigned location.
- Ensure stairwell(s) accessing the fire area remain free of personnel/congestion.
- After outside duties are complete, searches for victims throughout the first floor and above, coordinating their movements in the building with the placement of protecting hose lines.
- Is responsible for overhaul and salvage in their assigned location.
- Ensure stairwell(s) accessing the fire area remain free of personnel/congestion.
Attic and Top Floor Fires
• Ventilates the roof so the Engine Company can gain access to the attic or cockloft.
Attic and Top Floor Fires
• Ventilates the roof so the Engine Company can gain access to the attic or cockloft.
• On steep pitched roofs, consideration shall be given to combining the
1st and 2nd due Truck Company’s roof team to assure an adequate ventilation opening.
• Roof operations on buildings of lightweight truss construction experiencing heavy fire conditions should only be conducted if members are supported by and can operate off of aerial ladders or tower ladder platforms.
• Ceiling hooks must be brought to the top floor immediately, so access to the attic or cockloft can be gained from below.
• On steep pitched roofs, consideration shall be given to combining the
1st and 2nd due Truck Company’s roof team to assure an adequate ventilation opening.
• Roof operations on buildings of lightweight truss construction experiencing heavy fire conditions should only be conducted if members are supported by and can operate off of aerial ladders or tower ladder platforms.
• Ceiling hooks must be brought to the top floor immediately, so access to the attic or cockloft can be gained from below.
Fires involving knee-walls:
- Ventilates the roof by providing an opening directly above the involved kneewall.
- Interior crew members shall expose the knee-wall void areas in a rapid manor.
- Exterior crew members shall consider opening an exterior wall to expose the knee-wall void areas.
Fires involving knee-walls:
- Ventilates the roof by providing an opening directly above the involved kneewall.
- Interior crew members shall expose the knee-wall void areas in a rapid manor.
- Exterior crew members shall consider opening an exterior wall to expose the knee-wall void areas.
Rear porch fires:
- Responsible for the entire building.
- Due to the fire load normally present in rear porch fires, Roof Teams shall consider advancing a hoseline to their respective work area for protection.
Rear porch fires:
- Responsible for the entire building.
- Due to the fire load normally present in rear porch fires, Roof Teams shall consider advancing a hoseline to their respective work area for protection.
Fires in Balloon-Frame Construction
- Opening the roof is a priority if the fire is in the external wall cavity.
- Interior crew members shall ensure wall cavities are promptly and thoroughly opened.
Fires in Balloon-Frame Construction
- Opening the roof is a priority if the fire is in the external wall cavity.
- Interior crew members shall ensure wall cavities are promptly and thoroughly opened.
High Rise Fires
• Primary area of responsibility is the fire floor.
• Places aerial ladder in a position for rescues. The second priority shall be placing the aerial ladder for access and egress in the order of priority (firefloor, floor above, top-floor and roof):
Due to the height of the building, the aerial ladder may be the only escape route for entrapped victims.
High Rise Fires
• Primary area of responsibility is the fire floor.
• Places aerial ladder in a position for rescues. The second priority shall be placing the aerial ladder for access and egress in the order of priority (firefloor, floor above, top-floor and roof):
Due to the height of the building, the aerial ladder may be the only escape route for entrapped victims.
• Forces entry through and controls exterior/interior doors.
Interior doors are a greater concern on hi-rise fires. For this reason, after entry is made, members shall ensure that the door is properly controlled. This shall be coordinated between the member forcing entry and the Engine Company providing a charged hoseline.
• Forces entry through and controls exterior/interior doors.
Interior doors are a greater concern on hi-rise fires. For this reason, after entry is made, members shall ensure that the door is properly controlled. This shall be coordinated between the member forcing entry and the Engine Company providing a charged hoseline.
• Coordinates ventilation, both vertical and horizontal, with attacking Engine Companies.
Confirms the attack stairwell, as identified by the 1st due Engine Company.
Identifies the stairwell that will give access to the roof.
Identifies the ventilation stairwell. Use the attack stairwell, or stairwell to the roof if possible.
Identifies the evacuation stairwell (opposite the attack stairwell).
• Coordinates ventilation, both vertical and horizontal, with attacking Engine Companies.
Confirms the attack stairwell, as identified by the 1st due Engine Company.
Identifies the stairwell that will give access to the roof.
Identifies the ventilation stairwell. Use the attack stairwell, or stairwell to the roof if possible.
Identifies the evacuation stairwell (opposite the attack stairwell).
Commercial Building Fires
• Vertical (roof) ventilation operations of single story commercial storefront type occupancies should be undertaken immediately in order to reduce the possibility of flashover.
Commercial Building Fires
• Vertical (roof) ventilation operations of single story commercial storefront type occupancies should be undertaken immediately in order to reduce the possibility of flashover.
• Performs horizontal ventilation to support the advancement of hoselines.
Horizontal ventilation of storefront windows should not take place until the roof is vented, and a charged line is in position to attack the seat of the fire.
• Opens bulkhead doors, scuttles, and skylights on the roof.
• If no pre-existing openings are found, cut the roof directly over the fire area
(4’X4’).
• Performs horizontal ventilation to support the advancement of hoselines.
Horizontal ventilation of storefront windows should not take place until the roof is vented, and a charged line is in position to attack the seat of the fire.
• Opens bulkhead doors, scuttles, and skylights on the roof.
• If no pre-existing openings are found, cut the roof directly over the fire area
(4’X4’).
Roof Top Fires
- For rooftop fires, the roof shall be designated as the fire floor unless it is found that the fire originated on a floor below the roof. Priority for ladder placement during rooftop fires shall be the roof, floor below the roof, other areas adjacent to the operation.
- It is imperative that portable ground and aerial ladder egress is provided to multiple points of an involved roof.
Roof Top Fires
- For rooftop fires, the roof shall be designated as the fire floor unless it is found that the fire originated on a floor below the roof. Priority for ladder placement during rooftop fires shall be the roof, floor below the roof, other areas adjacent to the operation.
- It is imperative that portable ground and aerial ladder egress is provided to multiple points of an involved roof.
2ND DUE TRUCK COMPANY
Apparatus Positioning
The 2nd due Truck Company shall assume a position as to place the aerial ladder to the rear of the building, Side C-Charlie. Apparatus shall be positioned, with the collapse zone in-mind. Positioning may be dependent on the conditions encountered upon arrival
2ND DUE TRUCK COMPANY
Apparatus Positioning
The 2nd due Truck Company shall assume a position as to place the aerial ladder to the rear of the building, Side C-Charlie. Apparatus shall be positioned, with the collapse zone in-mind. Positioning may be dependent on the conditions encountered upon arrival
2ND DUE TRUCK COMPANY
Apparatus Positioning
The 2nd due Truck Company shall assume a position as to place the aerial ladder to the rear of the building, Side C-Charlie. Apparatus shall be positioned, with the collapse zone in-mind. Positioning may be dependent on the conditions encountered upon arrival
2ND DUE TRUCK COMPANY
Apparatus Positioning
The 2nd due Truck Company shall assume a position as to place the aerial ladder to the rear of the building, Side C-Charlie. Apparatus shall be positioned, with the collapse zone in-mind. Positioning may be dependent on the conditions encountered upon arrival
- Places portable ground ladder(s) to Sides B-Bravo and D-Delta, as the situation requires in the order of priority (fire-floor, floor above, top-floor and roof).
- Places their aerial ladder in position for rescues.
- Places portable ground ladder(s) to Sides B-Bravo and D-Delta, as the situation requires in the order of priority (fire-floor, floor above, top-floor and roof).
- Places their aerial ladder in position for rescues.
Basement Fires
- The Company Officer shall ensure that ventilation is controlled until a charged hoseline is in-place.
- If there is not a charged hoseline in-place and a sliding glass door (or significant basement opening) has failed, the Company Officer shall notify the Incident Commander immediately.
Basement Fires
- The Company Officer shall ensure that ventilation is controlled until a charged hoseline is in-place.
- If there is not a charged hoseline in-place and a sliding glass door (or significant basement opening) has failed, the Company Officer shall notify the Incident Commander immediately.
Rear Porch Fires
- The 2nd due Truck Company may not have access to the fire building, and should be prepared to force entry into the exposures from the rear.
- Once the fire is extinguished and access to the fire building is possible, the 2nd due Truck Company will be responsible for operating in the basement
Rear Porch Fires
- The 2nd due Truck Company may not have access to the fire building, and should be prepared to force entry into the exposures from the rear.
- Once the fire is extinguished and access to the fire building is possible, the 2nd due Truck Company will be responsible for operating in the basement
High Rise Fires
- Primary area of responsibility is the floor above the fire.
- Places aerial ladder in a position for rescues. The second priority shall be placing the aerial ladder for access and egress in the order of priority (firefloor, floor above, top-floor and roof):
High Rise Fires
- Primary area of responsibility is the floor above the fire.
- Places aerial ladder in a position for rescues. The second priority shall be placing the aerial ladder for access and egress in the order of priority (firefloor, floor above, top-floor and roof):
Roof Top Fires
- For rooftop fires, the roof shall be designated as the fire floor unless it is found that the fire originated on a floor below the roof. Priority for ladder placement during rooftop fires shall be the roof, floor below the roof, other areas adjacent to the operation.
- The Inside Team shall operate on the floor below the roof and assist the 2nd due Engine Company with opening-up the cockloft or attic space.
Roof Top Fires
- For rooftop fires, the roof shall be designated as the fire floor unless it is found that the fire originated on a floor below the roof. Priority for ladder placement during rooftop fires shall be the roof, floor below the roof, other areas adjacent to the operation.
- The Inside Team shall operate on the floor below the roof and assist the 2nd due Engine Company with opening-up the cockloft or attic space.
11.1 WORKING FIRE DISPATCH OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
Rapid Intervention
The structure of the Rapid Intervention Group, with the exception of the 5th due Engine Company and WFD Truck Company, will be designated by the Incident Commander to fit the complexity of an operation.
11.1 WORKING FIRE DISPATCH OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
Rapid Intervention
The structure of the Rapid Intervention Group, with the exception of the 5th due Engine Company and WFD Truck Company, will be designated by the Incident Commander to fit the complexity of an operation.
• The Company Officer of the 5th due Engine Company shall be the Rapid Intervention Group Supervisor.
• The Company Officer of the 5th due Engine Company shall be the Rapid Intervention Group Supervisor.
- If a MAYDAY is declared early in an incident, prior to the arrival of the companies, the Incident Commander will have to assemble a Rapid Intervention Group from units already on the scene.
- Truck Companies assigned to the Rapid Intervention Group will position their apparatus as close to the incident as possible to allow for the rapid retrieval of equipment and use of the aerial ladder.
- If a MAYDAY is declared early in an incident, prior to the arrival of the companies, the Incident Commander will have to assemble a Rapid Intervention Group from units already on the scene.
- Truck Companies assigned to the Rapid Intervention Group will position their apparatus as close to the incident as possible to allow for the rapid retrieval of equipment and use of the aerial ladder.
• The 5th Due Engine Company shall lay a supply line (consider dual lines) from an independent hydrant to the front of the building and advise Command of the location of their hydrant or supply the 3rd due Engine Company if the 1st due Engine Company has their own hydrant.
• The 5th Due Engine Company shall lay a supply line (consider dual lines) from an independent hydrant to the front of the building and advise Command of the location of their hydrant or supply the 3rd due Engine Company if the 1st due Engine Company has their own hydrant.
- The Rapid Intervention Group shall report to the command post with all personnel (including Technicians when appropriate) in full PPE/SCBA, equipment and UDCs, and shall report face-to-face with the Incident Commander.
- All Rapid Intervention Group personnel shall monitor the Incident Talk Group and Talk Group 0-16 at all times to keep themselves updated on fire conditions, progress made or not being made, and the location of Companies, etc.
- The Rapid Intervention Group shall report to the command post with all personnel (including Technicians when appropriate) in full PPE/SCBA, equipment and UDCs, and shall report face-to-face with the Incident Commander.
- All Rapid Intervention Group personnel shall monitor the Incident Talk Group and Talk Group 0-16 at all times to keep themselves updated on fire conditions, progress made or not being made, and the location of Companies, etc.
11.2 RESPONSIBILITIES OF RAPID INTERVENTION GROUP
• Scene Assessment
Overview of the fireground
Location of the fire and predicted path
Location of units on the fireground
Building type with access and egress
Progress of on-scene efforts
Dangers that exist or may exist in the future
11.2 RESPONSIBILITIES OF RAPID INTERVENTION GROUP
• Scene Assessment
Overview of the fireground
Location of the fire and predicted path
Location of units on the fireground
Building type with access and egress
Progress of on-scene efforts
Dangers that exist or may exist in the future
11.3 5TH DUE ENGINE COMPANY
The 5th due Engine Company will be assigned to the Rapid Intervention Group and will be responsible for the following:
- Ensure water supply from an independent hydrant to the front of the incident or supply the 3rd due Engine Company if the 1st due Engine Company has their own hydrant.
- If laying-in from an independent hydrant, consider dual lines.
- Notify Command of location of hydrant.
- Stretch an appropriate size/length hoseline to cover all areas of responsibility.
- Report to the Command Post with UDC.
- Advance hoselines as necessary to protect the Rapid Intervention operations by establishing a defendable area. This hoseline shall be in-place for protection and not be in a position to impede the rescue operation.
- Coordinate efforts with the Incident Commander or MAYDAY Branch Director (if established).
11.3 5TH DUE ENGINE COMPANY
The 5th due Engine Company will be assigned to the Rapid Intervention Group and will be responsible for the following:
- Ensure water supply from an independent hydrant to the front of the incident or supply the 3rd due Engine Company if the 1st due Engine Company has their own hydrant.
- If laying-in from an independent hydrant, consider dual lines.
- Notify Command of location of hydrant.
- Stretch an appropriate size/length hoseline to cover all areas of responsibility.
- Report to the Command Post with UDC.
- Advance hoselines as necessary to protect the Rapid Intervention operations by establishing a defendable area. This hoseline shall be in-place for protection and not be in a position to impede the rescue operation.
- Coordinate efforts with the Incident Commander or MAYDAY Branch Director (if established).
11.4 WORKING FIRE DISPATCH TRUCK
Truck Company assigned to the Working Fire Dispatch will be assigned to the Rapid Intervention Group and will responsible for the following:
• Report to the Command Post with UDC.
• Coordinate efforts with the Rapid Intervention Group Supervisor.
• Stage the following equipment at the location directed:
Rescue saw with metal blade.
Cutters Edge saw.
Pickhead axe.
Two halligan bars.
Two sledgehammers.
Hydra-Ram.
Scott RIT-PAK
Scott PAK Tracker
Below Grade Rescue and Large Area Search Kit
Stokes basket and Turk Cart, used to carry tools to staging.
11.4 WORKING FIRE DISPATCH TRUCK
Truck Company assigned to the Working Fire Dispatch will be assigned to the Rapid Intervention Group and will responsible for the following:
• Report to the Command Post with UDC.
• Coordinate efforts with the Rapid Intervention Group Supervisor.
• Stage the following equipment at the location directed:
Rescue saw with metal blade.
Cutters Edge saw.
Pickhead axe.
Two halligan bars.
Two sledgehammers.
Hydra-Ram.
Scott RIT-PAK
Scott PAK Tracker
Below Grade Rescue and Large Area Search Kit
Stokes basket and Turk Cart, used to carry tools to staging.
