SOG's Flashcards

Question

Incident Commander

Answer 1

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.

Answer 2

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.

Answer 3

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.

Answer 4

– 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.

Answer 5

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.

Answer 6

– An attack hoseline, of any size, that is 350’ or longer.

Answer 7

The process of lowering a hoseline from an elevated point, such as a window or rooftop.

Answer 8

A term signifying that a firefighter is in distress due to being lost, trapped or any other life threatening situation.

Answer 9

Non-Combustible Construction

Answer 10

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.

Answer 11

An incident where members will be operating (in full PPE/SCBA) inside of a structure with an IDLH atmosphere present.

Answer 12

A covered rear area, constructed of wood, commonly found attached to rowhouses in the District of Columbia.

Answer 13

The position due, as assigned by the Office of Unified Communications upon the initial dispatch of an assignment.

Answer 14

– A structure with two or more attached exposures.

Answer 15

The area of a building wall that can be touched by the tip or bucket of the aerial.

Answer 16

A structure that has a similar attached exposure on one side.

Answer 17

A water stream that is delivered through a solid tip on a play-pipe or heavy duty device.

Answer 18

A set of steps or stairs that is either enclosed with surrounding walls or open with railings.

Answer 19

– Is the number of levels above ground

Answer 20

A water stream that is delivered through a CVFSS tip and less than a 30degree fog pattern.

Answer 21

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.

Answer 22

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.

Answer 23

– In a high-rise building, this is the stairway that is designated for ventilation of heat, smoke and toxic gases.

Answer 24

A concealed area within a structure that requires removal of coverings, such as drywall and paneling to gain access.

Answer 25

A large building, normally constructed with ordinary, fire resistive or non-combustible components that is utilized to store raw materials or manufactured goods.

Answer 26

An open area, in the center of a stairwell, normally found in buildings that are four stories and taller.

Answer 27

– 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.

Answer 28

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.

Answer 29

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.

Answer 30

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.”

Answer 31

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

Answer 32

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).

Answer 33

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.

Answer 34

The accountability system will in no way reduce the Company Officer’s primary responsibility to closely supervise crewmembers (Task Level Accountability),

Answer 35

crewmembers’ responsibility (Personal Accountability) to maintain the Unit’s integrity.

Answer 36

The Company Officer shall provide for the company’s safety, and will maintain communications with Group/Division Supervisors (Tactical Level Accountability)

Answer 37

)/Branch Directors or Command (Strategic Level Accountability).

Answer 38

• The minimum crew operating in a Hazard Zone shall be two firefighters with a least one portable radio.

Answer 39

``` White Officers and PIO Yellow Firefighters Orange EMS Blue Fire Inspector Red Other Members – as directed by the Fire Chief ```

Answer 40

The PAT is considered to be an issued item of personal protective equipment.

Answer 41

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.

Answer 42

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 ```

Answer 43

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.

Answer 44

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.

Answer 45

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.

Answer 46

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.

Answer 47

Persons or crews unaccounted for will not stop Roll Call from other Groups or Divisions

Answer 48

* 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.

Answer 49

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.

Answer 50

When the Roll Call indicates personnel are missing or unaccounted for, Command shall declare a MAYDAY.

Answer 51

* 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.

Answer 52

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.

Answer 53

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.

Answer 54

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.

Answer 55

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.

Answer 56

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.

Answer 57

Individual(s) declaring a “MAYDAY” will: 1. Activate the orange “Emergency Activation” button located on the top of the portable radio.

Answer 58

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.

Answer 59

2. 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.

Answer 60

• 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!

Answer 61

• 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.

Answer 62

• 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

Answer 63

4. 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.

Answer 64

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.

Answer 65

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.

Answer 66

* 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)

Answer 67

* 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.

Answer 68

* 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.

Answer 69

MAYDAY is to notify Command (and other units on the scene) that firefighter(s) or crews are lost, missing or trapped.

Answer 70

PRIORITY is to transmit an urgent message to Command that does NOT involve trapped or missing personnel.

Answer 71

10-33 is a coded message to inform the OUC that immediate police assistance is needed.

Answer 72

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.

Answer 73

The Incident Commander shall assure that a Collapse Zone is established on any incident where a defensive strategy has been declared.

Answer 74

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.

Answer 75

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.

Answer 76

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

Answer 77

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.

Answer 78

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.

Answer 79

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.

Answer 80

Unless companies are advised that Level I staging is in effect, it is imperative that companies perform their duties as described in the SOGs.

Answer 81

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.

Answer 82

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.

Answer 83

* 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.

Answer 84

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.

Answer 85

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.

Answer 86

Size-up can be divided into following categories: Exterior, Interior, and C.A.N. (Conditions, Actions, Needs) reports.

Answer 87

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.

Answer 88

* 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

Answer 89

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.

Answer 90

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.

Answer 91

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

Answer 92

Configuration is the structural design of the building: * Detached * Semi-Detached * Row * High-Rise * Apartment House * Garden Apartment * Warehouse

Answer 93

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)

Answer 94

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).

Answer 95

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

Answer 96

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

Answer 97

Offensive Strategy – An incident where members will be operating (in full PPE/SCBA) inside of a structure with an IDLH atmosphere present.

Answer 98

Defensive Strategy – An incident where operations are limited to the exterior of a structure and outside of the established collapse zone.

Answer 99

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.

Answer 100

Request Additional Resources if the emergency exceeds the capabilities of the dispatched units, Command is responsible for requesting this information.

Answer 101

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

Answer 102

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: 1. Inside the front or rear door. 2. On the fire floor. 3. Arrival at reported location. 4. Any other location that adds to the description of the incident.

Answer 103

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.”

Answer 104

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.

Answer 105

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

Answer 106

Actions * Search progress * Fire control progress * Inability to locate the fire * Checking for extension * Access to concealed spaces * All clear * Under control * Accountability

Answer 107

Needs * Reinforcement * Relief * Change of strategy (Offensive to Defensive/Defensive to Offensive) * Support work * Tools or equipment * Coverage for other areas/exposures * Urgent assistance

Answer 108

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.

Answer 109

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

Answer 110

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.

Answer 111

* Concealed spaces – balloon construction, knee walls, attics & cocklofts • Basements * Effect the fire has had on the building, percent involvement versus savable property.

Answer 112

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

Answer 113

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

Answer 114

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

Answer 115

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

Answer 116

Resources * Staffing and equipment on scene * Staffing and equipment responding and in reserve * Water supply – hydrants and/or other sources * Built in fire protection

Answer 117

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

Answer 118

Special Circumstances * Time of day/night * Day of week * Season * Weather (wind, rain, snow, fog, etc.) * Social unrests (riots, terrorism, crime, etc.)

Answer 119

The Incident Commander shall consider that each incident can be divided into 8 specific areas or functions from start to finish. 1. Assume, Confirm and Position Command 2. Size-Up 3. Communications 4. Deployment 5. Strategy and Incident Action Planning 6. Organization 7. Review, Evaluation and Revision 8. Continue, Transfer and Terminate Command

Answer 120

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:

Answer 121

* 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.)

Answer 122

4.3 ESTABLISHING/ASSUMING/TRANSFERING COMMAND

Answer 123

. 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.

Answer 124

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.

Answer 125

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:

Answer 126

* 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.

Answer 127

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.

Answer 128

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.

Answer 129

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”.

Answer 130

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.

Answer 131

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: 1. The situation is stabilized; or 2. Command is transferred; or 3. Change from Tactical Command to a Strategic Command Post

Answer 132

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.

Answer 133

Transfer of Command 1. The first arriving company officer will establish command. 2. 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.

Answer 134

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.

Answer 135

• Unit accountability and location conducted informally at not more than 10 minutes into the incident and formally at 20-minute intervals during the incident.

Answer 136

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.”

Answer 137

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.

Answer 138

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.”

Answer 139

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)

Answer 140

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.”

Answer 141

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.”

Answer 142

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.

Answer 143

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).

Answer 144

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.).

Answer 145

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.

Answer 146

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.

Answer 147

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.

Answer 148

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.

Answer 149

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.

Answer 150

* 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.

Answer 151

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.

Answer 152

* “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.

Answer 153

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.

Answer 154

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.

Answer 155

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.

Answer 156

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.

Answer 157

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.

Answer 158

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.

Answer 159

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.

Answer 160

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.

Answer 161

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.

Answer 162

The Monitor Nozzle – Shall be considered where heavy-duty devices are required and apparatus cannot be positioned.

Answer 163

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.

Answer 164

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.

Answer 165

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.

Answer 166

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.

Answer 167

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.

Answer 168

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.

Answer 169

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’.

Answer 170

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.

Answer 171

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.

Answer 172

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.

Answer 173

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.

Answer 174

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.

Answer 175

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.).

Answer 176

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: 1. Fire Floor 2. Floor Above 3. Top Floor 4. Roof

Answer 177

Priority of ladder placement on confirmed rooftop fires: 1. Roof 2. Floor Below Roof 3. Other Areas Adjacent to the Operation

Answer 178

* 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.

Answer 179

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

Answer 180

Truck Company operations on fires are divided into two (2) main categories: 1. Low-rise (four floors or less) and 2. High-rise (five or more floors) The occupancy and use of the structure will also require some special considerations.

Answer 181

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)

Answer 182

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.

Answer 183

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.

Answer 184

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.

Answer 185

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.

Answer 186

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.

Answer 187

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.

Answer 188

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.

Answer 189

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.

Answer 190

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.

Answer 191

The Ventilation Group Supervisor (or designee) shall update Command at 10-minute intervals during the operation of PPV.

Answer 192

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.

Answer 193

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.

Answer 194

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.

Answer 195

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).

Answer 196

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.

Answer 197

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.

Answer 198

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.

Answer 199

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.

Answer 200

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.

Answer 201

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

Answer 202

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.

Answer 203

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.

Answer 204

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.

Answer 205

Scrub Area “Scrub area” is defined as the area of a building wall that can be touched by the bucket of the aerial.

Answer 206

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.

Answer 207

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.

Answer 208

Positioning apparatus perpendicular to building will considerably reduce scrub area and should be avoided whenever possible.

Answer 209

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.

Answer 210

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.

Answer 211

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.

Answer 212

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.

Answer 213

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.

Answer 214

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.

Answer 215

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:

Answer 216

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.)

Answer 217

• 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

Answer 218

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.

Answer 219

Truck Company Responsibilities * Reports to area/location of dispatch • Gives a complete size-up. * Investigates and mitigates problem. * Requests additional resources as necessary.

Answer 220

For large scale trees, the Company Officer shall request the assistance of the DDOT Urban Forestry Administration through the Office of Unified Communications.

Answer 221

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.

Answer 222

Single Truck Company (Incident Types) * Water Leaks * Activated Carbon Monoxide Detector (No reported illness)

Answer 223

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.

Answer 224

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

Answer 225

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.

Answer 226

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.

Answer 227

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.

Answer 228

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.

Answer 229

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.

Answer 230

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.

Answer 231

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.

Answer 232

Vehicles found on sides, roofs or in other unstable positions must be stabilized.

Answer 233

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

Answer 234

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.

Answer 235

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

Answer 236

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.

Answer 237

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).

Answer 238

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).

Answer 239

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

Answer 240

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.

Answer 241

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.

Answer 242

RECEO, an acronym for Rescue, Exposure Protection, Confinement, Extinguishment, and Overhaul, is a general blueprint for emergency operations.

Answer 243

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.

Answer 244

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.

Answer 245

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.

Answer 246

O – The overhaul operations will find any hidden fire that threatens the structure from unseen locations therefore protecting the property from fire extension.

Answer 247

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

Answer 248

• 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.

Answer 249

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.

Answer 250

On known basement fires, the primary purpose of the 1st due Engine Company’s hoseline is to protect the search and rescue operation.

Answer 251

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.

Answer 252

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.

Answer 253

• If high heat conditions exist, a straight stream shall be operated and directed into the ceiling area to cool the environment.

Answer 254

• 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.

Answer 255

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.

Answer 256

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.

Answer 257

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.

Answer 258

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.

Answer 259

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.

Answer 260

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.

Answer 261

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.

Answer 262

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.

Answer 263

Listed below, in order of importance, are the strategic objectives for a fire in a high-rise building: 1. 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.

Answer 264

2. Positively confirm the location of the fire. Specific company assignments and strategies cannot be implemented until this is accomplished.

Answer 265

3. 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.

Answer 266

4. 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

Answer 267

5. Confine and extinguish the fire.

Answer 268

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.

Answer 269

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.

Answer 270

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:

Answer 271

* 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.

Answer 272

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.

Answer 273

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.

Answer 274

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.

Answer 275

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

Answer 276

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.

Answer 277

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.

Answer 278

The Fallback Position shall not be used when the order is given to abandon the building.

Answer 279

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.

Answer 280

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.

Answer 281

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.

Answer 282

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.

Answer 283

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:

Answer 284

* 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.

Answer 285

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.

Answer 286

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.

Answer 287

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:

Answer 288

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.

Answer 289

• 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.

Answer 290

• 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.

Answer 291

** 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).

Answer 292

• 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.

Answer 293

* 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.

Answer 294

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.

Answer 295

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.

Answer 296

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.

Answer 297

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

Answer 298

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.

Answer 299

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)

Answer 300

• 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

Answer 301

* 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.

Answer 302

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.

Answer 303

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.

Answer 304

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

Answer 305

* 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.

Answer 306

The Incident Commander will use the following procedure to change from the offensive to the defensive strategy. 1. Declare Priority radio traffic only over the tactical radio channel. 2. Announce the change from the offensive strategy to the defensive strategy and direct the withdrawal of companies utilizing the guidelines for building evacuation below. 3. The Incident Commander will conduct a roll call from all units that were operating on the interior of the structure. 4. Before the Incident Commander implements a defensive operation, all companies that were operating on the interior must confirm the roll call. 5. Collapse zones should be identified and all personnel and apparatus must be moved out/away from them.

Answer 307

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.

Answer 308

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.

Answer 309

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

Answer 310

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.

Answer 311

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.

Answer 312

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.

Answer 313

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.

Answer 314

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.

Answer 315

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.

Answer 316

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.

Answer 317

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.

Answer 318

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.

Answer 319

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.

Answer 320

• 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.

Answer 321

• 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.

Answer 322

• 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.

Answer 323

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.

Answer 324

* 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: 1. Conditions in the lobby area. 2. Conditions in the stairwells. 3. Conditions on the reported fire floor. 4. 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.

Answer 325

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:

Answer 326

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)

Answer 327

• 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.

Answer 328

• 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.

Answer 329

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.

Answer 330

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.

Answer 331

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.

Answer 332

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.

Answer 333

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.

Answer 334

• 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.

Answer 335

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.

Answer 336

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.

Answer 337

• 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.

Answer 338

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.

Answer 339

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.

Answer 340

Roof Top Fires • Shall be responsible for fire suppression efforts on the floor directly below the roof, to include the cockloft or attic space.

Answer 341

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.

Answer 342

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).

Answer 343

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.

Answer 344

• 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.).

Answer 345

* 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.

Answer 346

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.

Answer 347

* 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.

Answer 348

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.

Answer 349

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.

Answer 350

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).

Answer 351

* 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.

Answer 352

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.

Answer 353

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).

Answer 354

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

Answer 355

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.

Answer 356

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.

Answer 357

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.

Answer 358

• The Company Officer shall ensure that ventilation is controlled until a charged hoseline is in-place.

Answer 359

• 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).

Answer 360

* 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).

Answer 361

 If no rescues are to be made, or rescues are being covered by portable ground ladders, place aerial ladder for access to the roof.

Answer 362

* 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.

Answer 363

Attic and Top Floor Fires • Ventilates the roof so the Engine Company can gain access to the attic or cockloft.

Answer 364

• 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.

Answer 365

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.

Answer 366

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.

Answer 367

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.

Answer 368

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.

Answer 369

• 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.

Answer 370

• 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).

Answer 371

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.

Answer 372

• 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’).

Answer 373

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.

Answer 374

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

Answer 375

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

Answer 376

* 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.

Answer 377

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.

Answer 378

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

Answer 379

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):

Answer 380

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.

Answer 381

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.

Answer 382

• The Company Officer of the 5th due Engine Company shall be the Rapid Intervention Group Supervisor.

Answer 383

* 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.

Answer 384

• 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.

Answer 385

* 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.

Answer 386

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

Answer 387

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).

Answer 388

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.

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