Inland Water Rescue and Emergencies April 2019 Flashcards
(122 cards)
1
Q
___ emergencies can include many types of incidents, such as:
- Victims stranded (on rocks, in creeks, rivers),
- Victims falling through the ice at a local lake or retention pond
- Vehicles trapped on a flooded roadway.
pg 1
A
Water rescue
2
Q
The Northern Virginia region recognizes the levels of certification as outlined by NFPA ___ and ___.
pg 1
A
NFPA 1670 and 1006
3
Q
This feature is evident downstream of low head dam type hydraulic.
pg 2
A
boil line
- The boil line marks the area where the current splits direction of flow.
- The lighter aerated water further up- stream is moving back towards the hydraulic while the darker water is moving downstream
4
Q
___ is formed when two separate flows meet.
pg 2
A
Confluence wave
5
Q
___ is the flow of the water tends to travel in a straight line (vector) until it comes into contact with an object, shore, or bank.
pg 2
A
Current Flow
The current does not always follow the shoreline due to this straight movement.
6
Q
___ is the direction the water is flowing
pg 2.
A
Downstream
7
Q
___ is water being pushed through a narrowing gap causes the level to rise up forming a chute or a tongue.
pg 2
A
Downstream V:
This indicates the deepest part of a channel and is where a rescuer should swim and/or bring a boat.
8
Q
___ are personnel/crew assigned to operate downstream of incident.
pg 2
A
Downstream Safety
- These units ensure the safety of both the rescuers and victims by providing egress from the immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) area.
- Crews should have appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and resources available to include radios and throw bags.
9
Q
___ is a reversal of water flow from downstream to upstream, caused by negative pressure void formed by passing water.
pg 2
A
Eddy
The water actually flows back upstream towards the object and is considered a SAFE area while boating or swimming.
10
Q
___ is a line of swirls caused by the reversal of the eddy and the downstream flow of the water.
A
Eddy Fence
- The friction between the two currents causes a spiraling effect in the water that can be sufficient enough to drag a swimmer under water or flip a boat.
- This line is usually evident by sight.
11
Q
___ is the process by which a boat moves across the river without moving down stream
pg 3
A
Ferry
12
Q
___ is using the force of the water to assist the movement of a boat or a swimmers body to the target.
A
Ferry angle
Maintaining a 45o angle to the current a swimmer or boat can traverse the water with less difficulty.
13
Q
___ is an artificial channel used to move floodwater away from an urban area.
pg 3
A
Flood Channel
- These channels are normally designed as a part of the storm water removal system.
- The current in this channel may be up to twice the speed as the main current.
14
Q
___ is when a person’s lower extremity becomes entrapped while operating in moving water.
pg 4
A
Foot Entrapment
- The force of the water pushes the person’s body downstream of the entrapped body part not allowing removal without assistance.
- The person’s airway becomes compromised and drowning will result unless immediate action is taken to secure airway and rescue the victim.
15
Q
___ is the feature is evident by the points on the outside of the hole facing towards you if looking at the hole from up-stream.
pg 4
A
Frowning Hole ☹️
- If you mentally flip the whole up towards you it makes a frown.
- This hole will tend to hold a rescuer due to the nature of its shape.
- Since there is a reversal of flow as with all hydraulics, the rescuer will be kept in the bottom of the arc until swimming out and/or rescued.
16
Q
As water passes along the sides of the shore it creates circular swirls resulting from friction called ___.
pg 5
A
Helical Flow
- This helical pattern lends itself towards drawing water from the shoreline and pulling it in towards the main current flow in the center.
- This is the reason that anyone within 10 feet of the water’s edge must wear a personal flotation device (PFD).
17
Q
___ is water pouring over an underwater feature creating a void that will be backfilled by water traveling the opposite direction (upstream).
pg 5
A
Hydraulic (smiling hole, frowning hole, low head)
- This also creates a recirculation effect and the water becomes aerated by this churning.
- A boil line is usually evident downstream of the hydraulic and indicates the line where the water is flowing downstream yet again.
18
Q
___ is a movement of water caused by pressure.
pg 5
A
Hydraulic Effect:
19
Q
___ is the lowering of the body’s core temperature occurring when the body loses heat faster than it can produce.
pg 5
A
Hypothermia
Hypothermia can cause impaired judgment, debilitation, and eventually, death.
20
Q
The opposite shore to the outside bend is where water tends to be moving slower is called ___.
pg 5
A
Inside Bend:
- Objects and debris can accumulate in these areas.
- In high water, strong eddies may be present.
21
Q
Water moves in layers, one upon the other from the bottom. Each subsequent layer moves faster than the last. This is called ___.
pg 5
A
Laminar Flow
the top layer of water is moving slower than that of the bottom.
22
Q
This hole will tend to keep recycling the rescuer/victim in and out due to the nature of the shape is called ___.
pg 6
A
Low Head Dam
- This feature is evident by the perpendicular line formed if looking at the hole from up-stream.
- Since the reversal is perpendicular to the face of the object, the rescue/victim will be continually recycled through the hydraulic coming up in roughly the same location each time until rescued.
- These are killing machines and should be avoided.
23
Q
Operational zones for inland water incidents are as follows:
pg 6
A
Hot
- in or over the water/ice is considered IDLH.
- Appropriate PPE is required.
- It is recommended that only Technician level personnel operate in the Hot Zone.
Warm
- within 10 feet of the water/ice, if conditions warrant the distance can be increased.
- This area is also dangerous and PFD’s are required.
- Operations Level personnel and below can operate in the Warm Zone.
Cold
- greater than 10 feet from the water/ice.
- Any untrained personnel operate in the cold zone.
*Note -The distance and locations of the warm and cold zones may be increased as deemed necessary for the incident. Some of the considerations may include but are not limited to geography, weather, topography, or changing conditions.
24
Q
___ is where the current strikes a bank or shore of a water-way at a turn.
pg 7
A
Outside bend
The shore can to be undercut and/or eroded with water moving at a steady pace tends to force swimmer or boat into shore.
25
\_\_\_ is where water meets an object and pushes water above water line.
pg 7
Pillow:
## Footnote
Water will push off to either side with a probable eddy on the opposite side downstream.
26
\_\_\_ is rising of water due to encountering object underwater. Not quite enough to form an upstream V or a hydraulic.
pg 7
Reaction Wave
These small bumps give us warning while operating a boat and/or swimming.
27
\_\_\_ is the left side or river bank, looking downstream.
pg 7
River Left
28
\_\_\_ is the right side or river bank, looking downstream.
pg 7
River Right
29
\_\_\_ is a safe or defensive swift water swimming position, in which the swimmer is positioned on their back with feet at the surface pointing downstream.
pg 7
Safe Swimming Position
This reduces the risk of foot entrapment and allows the swimmer to defend them against smashing into objects.
30
This feature is evident by the points on the outside of the hole going away from you if looking at the hole from up-stream. If you mentally flip the whole up towards you it makes a smile is called \_\_\_.
pg 8
Smiling Hole:
* This hole will tend to spit a rescuer out due to the nature of its shape.
* Since there is a reversal of flow as with all hydraulics, the rescuer will be forced out the bottom of the hole to the right or left.
31
\_\_\_ is formed at the base of a downstream V due to channeling of the water into the chute/tongue.
pg 8
Standing wave:
* These waves are key to acknowledging the presence of a chute while in water swimming.
* Depending on amount and speed of water will determine size of waves.
32
Object or structure that allows water to pass through but not rescuer is called \_\_\_.
pg 9
Strainer
Examples (but not limited to): trees, fencing, cars/trucks, culvert/bridges with debris accumulated on upstream side, barbed wire, and guard rails.
33
\_\_\_ is where water meets an object that is undercut or has a narrow hole through object.
pg 9
Under Cut:
* The water will either be at water level or slightly dipping below indicating the presence of the undercut.
* **These should be avoided!**
* These can hold a rescuer under water and/or force rescuer into hole creating a drowning hazard.
34
\_\_\_ is the direction from which water is coming.
pg 9
Upstream
35
Personnel assigned to watch for incoming hazards that can directly affect the incident is called \_\_\_.
pg 9
Upstream Spotter
Units should be located a sufficient distance upstream of the incident to afford adequate reflex time.
36
\_\_\_ indicate an object under the water.
pg 10
Upstream V
* The speed and the depth of the water flowing over the object will need to be taken into account to determine the location.
* The object could be directly under the V or further upstream.
* Caution should be used when either swimming and/or using boat-based rescues.
37
Victims/patients will usually fall within specific categories in regards to ability to help themselves. This is called \_\_\_
pg 10
Victim Recognition
## Footnote
This allows the rescuer to visually identify the potential level of rescue needed.
**Normal**
* Everyday swimmer/person, no trouble following commands and assisting in own rescue
**Panic**
* Can follow simple commands, can usually help themselves with proper direction
**Counter Panic**
* Blank stare with associated inability to follow commands or assist rescuers.
* Indicative of a GO rescue where immediate assistance by trained personnel is needed
**Instinctive Drowning Response (IDR)**
* Identified by victim face down in water able to get head up for a breath; this victim has \< 60 second survival time
38
4 types of water and its characteristics:
pg 11
**Swift Water** – fast-moving with identifiable hydraulics features.
* For the purpose of this manual, any body of water with a consistent direction of flow will be considered swift water, excluding waterways such as the lower tidal Potomac River.
**Flood Water** – variation of a water flow and hazards where water is not normally present.
**Flat/Static Water** – a body of water that may or may not be fed by alternate ground sources.
* Examples include: ponds, lakes, reservoirs, storm water retention ponds, and quarries.
**Ice** – May occur in any of the above listed bodies of water when surface temperature falls below the freezing point.
39
list of locations where water emergencies could occur:
pg 11
**Natural Locations**
* Low lying land or flood planes
* Streams and rivers
* Lakes, ponds and reservoirs
**Man-made Locations**
* Residential neighborhoods
* Commercial properties
* Lakes, ponds, and reservoirs
* Storm water retention ponds
* Roadways and bridges
* Low head dams
* Spillways and flood control channels
* Abandoned rock quarry filled with water
40
Hazards and challenges associated with specific environments are:
pg 12
**Dynamic Hazards (objects moving in water)**
* Vehicles
* Trees
* Propane tanks
* Animals
* Clothing
**Static Hazards (stationary objects)**
* Signs, poles and fire hydrants
* Manholes
* Picnictables
* Intake and culvert pipes
* Vehicles
* Guard rail, fencing and barbed wire
* Structures
* Utilities (power lines, gas service lines, etc.)
* Sloped shoreline, undercut objects and other items that could entrap
**Challenges**
* Weather and Season
* Accessibility
* Time of day, poor visibility and darkness
* Personnel and equipment resources
* Traveltime
* Number of victims
* Animals
* Potential crime scene
41
\_\_\_ while working is a big concern due to the stressful nature of the events.
pg 12
Hyperthermia
* Personnel working in dry-suits, PFDs, and helmets retain body heat and rapidly move towards dehydration.
* Adequate rotation of personnel must be provided along with ample hydration.
42
\_\_\_ can also rapidly impact rescuers and victims.
pg 12
Hypothermia
If personnel are not adequately protected there will be a premature end or delay in the rescue efforts.
43
The ___ is obtained by adding ambient temperature plus the water temperature.
pg 12
aggregate temperature
* If the aggregate temperature is less than 140F, the potential for hypothermia is dramatically increased
* High wind conditions and moving water may alter temperature variables and lead to rapid heat loss.
* Physical condition, drugs, alcohol, medications, and food intake can all increase risk.
44
When the aggregate temperature is less than ___ , rescuers should consider additional PPE to include dry or ice rescue suits.
pg 13
140F
45
Water may contain various ___ and \_\_\_.
pg 13
chemical and biological waste products
* This may be the result of saturated ground, the overwhelming of sewage and septic systems, or industrial run-off
* Gross decontamination should be performed after each entry.
* Completion of exposure reports are recommended for all entries into flood waters.
46
Flood water should always be considered contaminated and ___ shall be worn to protect personnel from contaminants
pg 13
dry suits
* Gross decontamination should be performed after each entry.
* Completion of exposure reports are recommended for all entries into flood waters.
47
Common illnesses associated with exposure to \_\_\_.
* Gastrointestinal illnesses following ingestion of contaminated water or food.
* Infectious hepatitis or aseptic meningitis from viruses in sewage contaminated water.
* Leptospirosis following exposure to flood waters contaminated by animal urine.
* Intestinal bacteria such as E. Coli, Salmonella, Shigella, Hepatitis A Virus, and agents of typhoid, paratyphoid, and tetanus.
pg 13
flood waters
48
\_\_\_ as referred to in these recommendations, are inflatable, motorized, utility boats and are available to launch from a vehicle-accessible point to a body of water.
pg 14
Boats
49
Water Rescue dispatch brings you the following units:
pg 14
* 2 Boats \* (minimum staffing of three personnel per boat)
* 1 Rescue
* 1 Truck or Tower
* 2 Engines
* 1 Battalion Chief
* 1 Safety Officer
* 2 EMS Transport Unit \*\*\*
\* When boats are dispatched they respond to the incident with two swift water rescue technicians and one swift water boat operator.
* The number of responders placed in the water or on the boat should be determined by the boat operator and Incident Commander after evaluating the mission, resources available, and the equipment needed to safely make the rescue.
* Technical specialist SME (Subject Matter Expert) on the scene should be consulted during this decision-making process.
\*\*\* The one EMS transport unit dispatched is designated for the care and welfare of the team members only and will not be included as a resource for service delivery.
50
There are three phases of readiness that should be recognized by the Northern Virginia regional fire and rescue departments. These are based on the _weather forecast, current water table, and water levels on local bodies of water._
* Phase 1:
* Phase 2:
* Phase 3:
pg 15
**Phase 1 – FLOOD WATCH**
* Appropriate water rescue personnel are identified as water rescue team members but may be used to staff other response resources (first pull). **This phase is the normal, operational, preparation level for any identified water rescue resource.** This includes, but is not limited to, ensuring all personal protective gear related to water rescue is serviceable and ready for use on emergency scenes. Additional equipment caches should be immediately accessible.
**Phase 2 – FLOOD WARNING**
* Conditions exist that could precipitate a water rescue event (ie...a flood warning has been issued for the jurisdiction). **In this phase, where flooding is imminent, response resources should be immediately made available with dedicated personnel.** This could be a focused area or the entire region and should be addressed accordingly. The evaluation and decision making to increase staffing levels or reassign and deploy resources in Phase 2 operations should be implemented by the jurisdiction’s fire chief or designee.
**Phase 3 – ACTION PHASE**
* An area or jurisdiction is expecting or experiencing flood warnings, hurricanes, tropical storms, tornados, or any other weather event that has increased potential for significant precipitation accompanied by major flooding. **During this phase all supported water rescue resources should be fully staffed and prepared to respond.** It is also recommended during this phase, dispatch complements may need to be adjusted based on increased call volume and pending incidents. Preplanning should also include the potential for the jurisdictions resources to be depleted and outside assistance to be requested. This plan should consider regional resources would most likely be unavailable as they are most likely affected by the event as well. Other resources to be considered may include the US Park Police, state police agencies, state water rescue teams, Coast Guard, or other federal assets.
51
\_\_\_ plans should be evaluated by the end of each 12-hour period or the end of each shift.
pg 15
Demobilization
52
Any time a rescuer is placed into the water to affect rescue, it is considered to be an ___ environment and there is extreme risk to all involved.
pg 15
IDLH
A risk/benefit analysis shall be conducted by the Incident Commander, in conjunction with a SME, prior to placing a rescuer in the water
53
The ___ should consider the following as priority actions which need to be completed as soon as practical:
▪ Communicate an on-scene report.
▪ Complete an effective size-up, trying to visualize as much of the incident as possible.
▪ Perform a risk benefit analysis to ensure subsequent actions and decisions are based on good judgment, experience, and training – not compassion.
▪ Communicate a situation report.
▪ Establish command and establish operational zones.
▪ Request additional resources as needed to complete the incident objectives.
▪ Provide direction for incoming resources to maximize efficiency for the incident
objectives (i.e., aerial apparatus positioning, boat deployment, staging).
▪ Maintain personnel accountability.
pg 16
first-arriving units
54
The ___ will be responsible for the overall safety of all personnel during an inland water rescue incident.
pg 17
safety officer
55
A ___ holds a technician-level certification for the incident type.
pg 16
technical specialist
56
The ___ encompasses operations on the waterways associated with a particular incident.
pg 17
Marine Branch
Responsibilities include briefing and assigning marine resources, determining the need for and requesting additional resources, providing information on the status of marine operations, and completing needed documentation.
57
Personnel assigned to the ___ will be responsible for providing treatment to victims removed from the water/ice, as well as to provide care for fire and rescue personnel as needed.
pg 17
EMS Branch
58
The ___ consists of personnel responsible for watching for and advising of any obstacles and hazards floating downstream or other pertinent information that could impede the operation and may hinder the rescue.
pg 17
**Upstream Division**
(awareness-level personnel can act in this position)
59
The ___ prepares for the rescue of victims and/or rescuers that may be swept downstream.
pg 17
**Downstream Division**
(recommended to be swift water technician- level personnel)
All personnel in this division should have a throw rope bag in hand and be wearing appropriate protective equipment.
There should be downstream personnel on both sides of the body of water.
60
The ___ and ___ divisions consist of personnel who are responsible for rigging the rope rescue system and operating as a land-based rescue source for victims and rescuers swept downstream.
pg 17
River Right and River Left Division
Personnel assigned should be wearing appropriate protective equipment and have throw rope bags.
61
The ___ needs to be assigned during all incidents where personnel are operating in the Hot Zone
Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) Group
## Footnote
During normal operations, if a boat is deployed, there should always be another boat with at least the same capacity as the rescue group’s boat. This boat should have a certified crew and be ready to go in the water to act as the Rapid Intervention Team. During high call volumes, when a phased response is necessary, a second boat may not be available. In these situations the RIT component, may consist of a technician- level crew without a boat. This team is responsible for the safety of the rescue team and victim.
62
Personnel should treat all ice as ___ to operate on.
pg 18
unsafe
63
The ___ report on arrival to an inland water rescue incident should include the following information:
## Footnote
▪ Confirmation of incident location,
▪ Confirmation of incident dispatch information,
▪ Staging location for incoming resources,
▪ Establish and or transfer command, and
▪ Actions taken or needed to control access to the scene.
pg 18
initial
64
In order to safely mitigate the emergency, the ___ shall perform a thorough size-up of the incident and gather all the information available to develop an incident action plan which include:
pg 18
* Use a six-sided approach to visualizing the incident (above, below, four sides).
* Determine location, number, and condition of victims.
* Secure witnesses who may have valuable information on victim location.
* Review pre-plans of the location.
* Establish operational zones.
* Obtain and monitor current weather conditions.
* Mark the water/ice level and continual check to determine rise or fall.
* Determine if this is a rescue or a body recovery.
* Consider what will happen if responders do nothing and wait for water to recede.
* Request additional and specialized resources needed to accomplish the objectives.
* Request additional EMS units as needed for the number of victims.
initial incident commander
65
It is also important to implement these critical ___ during the development of the incident action plan:
* No personnel shall be in, on or over the water (Hot Zone) while wearing structural firefighting gear.
* Ensure all responders are in proper PPE and flotation devices.
* Conduct upstream and downstream recon to identify hazards.
* Maintain awareness of the hazards in and around the incident location.
* Position upstream spotter.
* Position downstream safeties.
* If a pet is located on the ice every effort should be made to attempt a rescue to prevent bystanders/family from entering IDLH. Historically, civilian rescue attempts happen after units leave the scene.
pg 18
out-of-water actions
66
The following are key considerations in performing a ___ before developing an incident action plan:
## Footnote
▪ Victim recognition – assess the patient’s physical and mental status to determine if they can self-rescue or if they need to be rescued.
▪ Victim viability – determine when and where the victim was last seen, how long they have been submerged, and what is the water temperature.
▪ Hazards and environmental factors which can jeopardize rescuers.
▪ What factors will hinder or ease access to the victims?
▪ What is the training and experience of on-scene personnel?
▪ What are your available resources?
▪ Monitor weather conditions.
▪ Protect in place option (water level rising or falling).
pg 19
risk/benefit analysis
67
The ___ report should include the following information:
* Confirmation and condition and number of victims in, on or under the water, if possible.
* Information gathered from bystanders and victim status.
* Is the water/ice moving? How fast and in what direction?
* Possible access for resources.
* Establish operational zones.
* Consider Dive Team (SCUBA) due to reflex/response time.
pg 19
situation report
68
\_\_\_ is a critical piece of information necessary for determining the strategy and tactics of most rescue situations.
pg 19
Victim location
victim location also needed to determine what resources are needed
precise location is very important and should be communicated to all personnel as quickly as possible so the Incident Action Plan (IAP) can begin to be developed
69
During an ice rescue incident, determining victim location may be as easy as \_\_\_.
pg 20
looking for broken ice.
However, with moving water under the ice, this may only be the point of entry by the victim.
70
\_\_\_ response may prevent a victim from being able to assist with self-rescue by altering their mentation or physical capacity.
pg 20
Cold water shock
## Footnote
The following information shall be collected through observation or witness interviews:
* Last location and time any possible victims were seen.
* Number of victims.
* Name, age, race, and sex of victims or approximate size.
* Clothing and type of shoes worn (footprints).
* Ability to swim.
* State of health and medications.
* PFD or other floatation device.
71
A ___ or ___ can be useful to confirm or deny the possibility of the victim returning home if they self-rescued.
pg 20
contact number or address
## Footnote
If the vehicle license number can be determined local law enforcement can obtain address and contact information to attempt to make contact and confirm the location of possible victims.
72
Due to the change in the surface ice characteristics during an ice rescue operation (breaking ice and increasing the size of the hole in the ice), the initial victim location or point last seen should be identified from \_\_\_.
pg 20
the shore.
* This will assist the dive team in rescue and recovery if the victim(s) submerges
* One method that is both simple and accurate way to accomplish this with markers such as traffic cones.
73
As the location and number of victims is determined, the Incident Commander shall develop the ___ .
pg 21
IAP (Incident Action Plan)
This plan will be built off of the initial response operations and information gathering of the first-arriving units.
74
\_\_\_ should be implemented in the initial stages to ensure scalability of the incident.
pg 21
Incident Command System (ICS)
75
Anyone operating in the ___ or ___ is required to have appropriate training in the use of PFD and PPE.
pg 21
warm or hot zone
76
Any ___ whistle blast requires all persons within the sound to stop operations and look in the direction of the whistle.
pg 21
single long
77
Any time a rescuer or victim is located in the water there shall be an ___ and ___ with retrieval devices available.
pg 21
upstream spotter and downstream safety
78
\_\_\_ shall never be driven into or through
the hot zone to include flooded roadways or bodies
of water of any kind.
pg 21
Fire apparatus
Only appropriate water rescue equipment will be used to enter the water
79
\_\_\_ can be used over the hot zone, the vehicle itself will remain out of the water and in a location not threatened by rising water levels.
pg 21
aerial devices
80
A car will be carried when in water when the ___ becomes greater than the vehicle weight.
pg 22
Buoyancy Force
81
Water and Ice rescue events are resource and labor intensive. The need for ___ should be addressed as soon as possible.
* Spotters and safety (three personnel)
* Incident safety (one person)
* Team leader (one person)
* Incident commander (one person)
* Subject Matter Expert (referred to as SME, proficient in the incident’s discipline)
* Entry team (four personnel)
* RIT (four personnel)
* Shoreline support and rope technicians (four personnel)
pg 22
additional resources
## Footnote
As a general rule, it could require **16 personnel** to affect a single person rescue from moving water during daylight hours.
82
It is considered acceptable to have personnel operating in the warm zone (10 feet from the water’s edge as a rule) using ___ PPE.
pg 22
structural firefighting
* only applies if the incident commander, safety officer, and water/ice rescue unit officer agree there is little to no risk to personnel operating in the warm zone.
* This is only true in the flat or static bodies of water that have surface ice.
**ICE RESCUE ONLY**
83
Some considerations of when a ___ can be used.
▪ Reconnaissance
▪ Scene Lighting
▪ Search (FLIR)
▪ EMS Transport
▪ Deployment of personnel and/or equipment ▪ Hoist operations
pg 23
helicopter
84
Deploying boats can be an option to conduct ___ and ___ operations or as an operating platform.
pg 24
both search and rescue
* Considered medium to high-risk
* RIT complement is required
* The size, weight, launching platform, and tactical positioning will dictate the feasibility of launch locations
85
Priority positioning should always be given to \_\_\_, \_\_\_, \_\_\_, and \_\_\_.
pg 25
boats, boat support, trucks, and towers.
Trucks, towers, and rescues should be prepared to stage in a location that enables easy deployment of their ladder (pg 24)
86
Any time personnel are located above or near the water/ice in an operational capacity they will be considered to be in the \_\_\_.
pg 25
hot or warm zone.
The individual(s) operating within the hot zone on the ladder should be at minimum technician level because of the possibility or necessity of the rescuer entering the IDLH
87
Personnel should ensure surface water rescue / swift water rescue / boat resources have been dispatched and ___ to most direct access point.
pg 25
directed
88
Personnel should make contact with ___ and obtain:
* Determine point last seen (PLS): Specific point that someone saw them go under. Mark if possible from shore line, get compass bearing or GPS coordinates.
* Determine time last seen. Initiate timer based on time victim was last seen.
* Was the victim struggling or submerged?
* Did the victim submerge and come back up at any period (which would reset the time for victim down)
* Gather a physical description of the victim to include the clothing and if the victim was wearing a personal flotation device (PFD).
pg 25
reporting party
89
Direct dispatch center to initiate an ___ for the rescue operation and Command monitor for situational awareness.
pg 25
incident timer
90
\_\_\_ should be requested and utilized to remove spectators / civilians from immediate area
pg 25
Police department
* In advance of the rescue operations, personnel should remove all civilian would be rescuers from water immediately.
* **The rare exception is trained lifeguard personnel that be an asset on this incident**
91
Active search and rescue operations should be done for victims that have been submerged for up to \_\_\_.
pg 26
60 minutes
* This can be extended for colder water temperatures.
* Consider online medical control consult prior to search termination.
92
Drop a ___ to indicate the point last seen and base search patterns off buoy, relay GPS location to command.
pg 26
marker buoy
93
Command should develop a ___ plan to include determining search pattern (see below)
Initiate immediate search for submerged victim(s):
* Utilize a human / rescuer chain search for shallow waters (beaches, ponds, swimming pools)
* Utilize boat-based searches for deeper waters using probing tools such as long pike poles. Consider use of recreational boats in area with SONAR that could possibly provide assistance. Consider use of PD boats equipped with side-scan SONAR.
* Consider utilizing sub-surface searches after consult with IC if the PLS has a high probability of detection and an assessment is made of potential underwater hazards in the area:
* Planning considerations for sub-surface searches: current weather, water temperature, wave action, currents, hydraulics, low head dams, obstructions, debris, contamination, turbidity, crew experience
* Adjuncts: mask, snorkel, knife, fins, throw bags
* Trained water rescue personnel may submerge to look for victims with or without PFD.
* Trained water rescue personnel engaging in sub-surface searches may be tethered if entanglement hazards are not suspected.
* Personnel doing sub-surface searches will be partnered with a spotter.
* Sub-surface searches should be short duration (\< 1 minute) and the maximum work period will be 10 minutes. Work period starts when personnel submerge under water and implementation of a incident timer should occur. Consider having relief personnel immediately available if possible for extended search operations.
* Sub-surface searches should be limited to water depths up to 10 feet.
pg 26
incident action
Command should monitor the tactical radio channel and ensure all personnel on waterhave communications.
Have a dedicated safety officer on shore to monitor water operations, if possible
94
The ___ occurs when the active rescue and search operating in water transitions into boat based only operations.
pg 27
recovery mode
* Command should confer with PD (**unified** **command**) and determine if a search is to be continued or the incident can transition to a PD-only incident
* If the decision is to continue with the search, Command should determine with the PD how the body recovery will be conducted (leave in place or remove from the water).
* Ensure all personnel involved in water rescue complete gross decontamination and rehab.
95
Flat water or land search. Rescuers line up at designated start point on search grid/map and **proceed along a straight line with fixed distance in between each person**. This search method is called a \_\_\_.
pg 27
Sweep Search Pattern
Search continues until assigned grid is completed, victim found or another assignment is ready
96
Flat water or land search technique. A **rescuer(s) walks out a fixed distance, executes a 90° turn** then walk a fixed distance to form the top of a mini-grid. This search method is called a \_\_\_.
pg 28
Double Back Search Pattern
This can be used on and/shore/water with multiple searches at same time.
97
Flat water or land search. Several spirals can go on at same time if needed though areas should overlap to minimized dead space in patterns due to circular nature. **After a rotation the rescuer will let a length of rope out and continue in a circular pattern** search along the way. This search method is called a \_\_\_.
pg 28
Spiral Search Pattern
* Rescuers use a fixed point as a reference to initiate a search area
* This technique is well suited for shallow water searches
* This spiral technique can be used with boats in shallow water with poling tools and the boat rotating around a center point gradually expanding the circle. On land this technique is used to locate small objects or search limited visibility areas
98
All personnel in the NOVA Regional Fire Departments shall have water and ice rescue awareness level training in order to operate at the ___ level.
* For the NOVA region fire departments, awareness level training will include requirements outlined in NFPA 1670 to include lecture and practical applications in the following areas:
* Hazard recognition
* Personal protection
* Activation of the emergency response system
* Gather data
* Throw bags and other shore-based rescue techniques
* Recertification: At the discretion of the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
pg 29
first responder
99
This second tier (\_\_\_\_\_\_) provides training for in water rescues under the direct supervision of a water rescue technician. All personnel trained to operations level should have been evaluated and proficient in self-rescue skills.
* For the NOVA region fire departments, the operations-level training will include requirements outlined in NFPA 1670 to include lecture and practical applications in the following areas:
* Swimming pool skills
* Basic swift water training in moving water environment
* Swim Test: participant must comply with course provider curriculum
* Recertification: At the discretion of the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
pg 29
Swift Water Operations Level
100
This third tier provides training for self-rescue and advanced water rescue techniques such as: direct & indirect in water contact rescues, emergency procedures, advanced rope systems, boat-based rescues, helicopter rescues, and night operations.
* For the NOVA region fire departments, the technician-level training will include a pre- requisite of Technical Rope Rescue and the requirements outlined in NFPA 1670 to include lecture and practical applications in the following areas:
* Swimming pool skills
* Basic/advanced swift water training in moving water environment
* Swim Test: participant must comply with course provider curriculum
* Recertification: Personnel will be required to attend a minimum of 16 hours of training with a minimum of 8 of these hours to be practical application of skills in a water environment annually. The swim test will be required at least every two years to maintain certification. Testing and skill evaluation will occur at annual drills. Students must be able to swim 300m unassisted in under 12 minutes to attain technician certification.
* Minimum of two evaluators must be present with one being an instructor. o Use of goggles is permitted
* Personnel may use any stroke and may pause at ends of pool.
* Personnel shall not touch bottom of pool
pg 29
Swift Water Technician Level
101
▪ Ice rescue personnel are trained for self-rescue and in advanced rescue techniques to include: direct and indirect on- and in-ice contact rescues, emergency procedures, and haul systems. This certification is called a \_\_\_.
▪ For the NOVA region fire departments, ice rescue technician level training will include lecture and basic/advanced ice rescue techniques on ice.
▪ Recertification: **At the discretion of the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).**
pg 30
Ice Rescue Technician Level
102
▪ _____ are trained for basic and advanced boat handling techniques, trailers, launching and recovery, emergency procedure, boat and motor maintenance, direct and indirect boat-based contact rescues, advanced rope based systems, and night operations. Swift water boat operators must also complete and maintain the requirements of a swift water technician.
▪ For the NOVA region fire departments, swift water boat operator training will include lecture and basic/advanced boat handling.
▪ Recertification: Maintenance of technician-level certification. Personnel will be required to attend a minimum of eight hours of training annually, all of which will be practical application of skills in a water environment.
pg 30
Swift water boat operators
103
Not all boats are appropriate for swift water environments. There should be a ___ at dispatch to recommend only swift water rescue resources for these events if the information received leads to a swift water rescue call type.
pg 32
designation
## Footnote
An appropriate and dedicated vehicle should be used to trailer boats
Smaller vehicles with four wheel drive and short wheel bases are highly recommended
104
Based on the regional PPE standard for inland water emergencies, ____ are required to be issued the following:
❑ Type III/V Coast Guard approved PFD
❑ Appropriate water rescue helmet with attached solid light or light stick if appropriate
pg 32
Victims
## Footnote
Strobe lights are inappropriate for moving water operations
105
This level of certification is required to have the following PPE:
❑ Type III/V Coast Guard approved PFD
❑ Appropriate water rescue helmet (red color) ❑ Water rescue throw bag
❑ Whistle
pg 33
Awareness Level
106
This level of certification is required to have the following PPE:
❑ Type V with quick release strap; Coast Guard/Mil Spec approved PFD
❑ Appropriate water rescue helmet
* Technician – yellow
* Operations – yellow w/red reflective stripe down center
* Hoist qualified – yellow w/blue reflective stripe on top
❑ Dry suit with thermal protection
❑ Appropriate footwear
❑ Appropriate gloves
❑ Whistle
❑ Knife
❑ Personal throw bag
❑ Light source (helmet light recommended)
❑ Low light/night time marking device (yellow on helmet)
pg 33
Operations and Technician Level:
107
The following are considered ____ PPE
❑ Fins
❑ Vest tethers (cow tail)
❑ Personal rope hardware
❑ Center punch, rescue hammer
❑ Handsaw
pg 33
Supplemental Gear (Jurisdictional Preference)
108
Operational units should have a PFD assigned for \_\_\_\_\_\_.
pg 34
every riding position
All labeling should be visible and readable on the interior of the jacket.
109
All victim/awareness level PFDs will carry a ___ rating and operations/technicians will carry a ___ rating.
pg 34
* Coast Guard (victim/awareness)
* Coast Guard/Mil Spec (operations/technicians)
110
The following PFD is required for \_\_\_.
o Type III/V PFD: minimum floatation 15lb-22lb
o Location: All Awareness-level apparatus
pg 34
Awareness/Victim Level
111
The following PFD is required for \_\_\_.
o Type V PFD w/blow-out: minimum floatation 22lbs
o Location: All Water Rescue stations
pg 34
Operations/Technician Level / Swift Water Boat Operations
**Only Technician/Operations level personnel are to use Type V PFDs w/ blow-out straps due to the possibility of entrapment that could lead to injury or death**
112
Units trained at or above the operations level will have ___ head protection available.
pg 34
water rescue
Structural firefighting gear is not appropriate and is unsafe for the water environment.
113
The ___ helmet color scheme is as follows:
Level Color
* Awareness Level/Victim Red
* Operations Level Yellow with Red Stripe
* Technician Level Yellow with Technician Marking
* Boat Operator Yellow with Technician Marking
* Helicopter Certified Yellow with Blue Reflective Tape on Top
pg 34
NOVA region
114
\_\_\_ specifically designed for cold static water entry afford the rescuer long-term operability in an extreme cold environment and are the tool of choice for ice rescue.
pg 34
Ice suits (Mustang Ice Commander)
## Footnote
Operations involving ice require the use of appropriate PPE to limit personnel exposure as well as provide thermal protection during operations in ice.
115
\_\_\_ and/or ___ can greatly diminish survivability in moving water.
pg 34
Turn out boots and/or station shoes
116
The following are considered ____ equipment.
* Throw Bags
* Fins
* Ring Buoy/Cinch Rings
* Waterproof Radio Bags
* Lighting
* Waterproof headlamp
* Low level light helmet identifier
* Corresponding light stick
* White – Boat marking stern
* Green – Boat marking Starboard
* Red – Boat marking Port
* Yellow – Rescuer marking Tech/Ops
* Blue – Victim marking
Supplemental Equipment
117
\_\_\_ are as follows:
* One blast: Stop, look at person
* Two blasts: Look upstream
* Three blasts: Look downstream
* Multiple blasts: Trouble
pg 36
Whistle commands
118
The following are the ___ for various communications in inland water rescues and emergencies.
* **OK** = Rescuers right hand placed on top of head 🙋🏽♂️
* **Stop** = Rescuers puts both hands up and makes a fist with ✊🏽👨🏽🚒✊🏽
* **Victim Recovered** = Rescuers throws up Wakanda sign 🙅🏽♂️
* **Tighten** = Rescuers flex right arm upwards with index finger extended rotating it 🧏🏽♂️ ☝🏽
* **Slack** = Rescuers flex right arm downwards with index finger extended rotating it 🧏🏽♂️ 👇🏽
pg 36
hand signals
119
Phase I in the Inland Water Incident Command Checklist is the \_\_\_.
* PrimaryAssessment
* Secure witness
* Determine location, number, and condition of victims
* Identify immediate hazards
* Water level rising or falling?
* Obtain current weather report
* Surface loads (debris), hydraulics, hypothermia
* SecondaryAssessment
* Assess need for additional personnel and equipment
* Assess need for additional equipment (boat)
* Rescue or recovery mode?
pg 39
Size up
120
Phase II in the Inland Water Incident Command Checklist is the \_\_\_.
* Make general area safe (i.e., traffic and crowd control)
* Make rescue area safe
* Assign safety officer
* Assure team response to opposite bank
* Personal protective equipment within 10 ft. of water
* Assign downstream bag throwers
* Assign upstream spotters
* Form incident action plan
* Reach, throw, row, go, helicopter
* Establish backup plans
* Victim or Patient PFD and Helmet
* Pre-rescue briefing
pg 39
Pre-rescue Operations
121
Phase III in the Inland Water Incident Command Checklist is the \_\_\_.
* Implement primary action plan
* Make contact with subject
* Applyprotectiveequipment
* Remove subject to safe area
* Transfer to appropriate EMS
pg 40
Rescue Operations
122
Phase IV in the Inland Water Incident Command Checklist is the \_\_\_.
* PAR – Personnel Accountability Report
* Consider decontaminating rescuers and PPE
pg 40
Termination
