· Web viewEmployees called back shall be assigned to work at a location as determined by the Deputy Chief of Operations or their designee. Reasonable efforts should be made to assign

OPERATIONS / SUPPRESSION

SUPPRESSION - POLICY INDEX O/SUP-201 SUPPRESSION ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES...................2O/SUP-202 STAFFING POLICY...........................................................2O/SUP-203 COMPANY RELIEF...........................................................5O/SUP-204 RELIEF DRIVERS POLICY...............................................5O/SUP-205 ANSWERING STATION CIRCUIT....................................6O/SUP-206 OFFICE SUPPLY PROCEDURES....................................6O/SUP-207 STATION SUPPLY PROCEDURES..................................6O/SUP-208 OPERATIONS TRAINING.................................................7O/SUP-210 FIRE DISTRICT MANAGEMENT......................................8O/SUP-211 BUILDING PREPLAN PROGRAM....................................8O/SUP-212 CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRE HOSE................10O/SUP-213 APPARATUS INVENTORIES.........................................11O/SUP-214 STOPPING AT RED LIGHTS..........................................11O/SUP-215 FIRE DEPARTMENT FUNCTIONS WHERE FATALITIES

ARE INVOLVED..............................................................11O/SUP-216 EMERGENCY LOCK-OUT PROCEDURES....................13O/SUP-217 DAMAGE TO PRIVATE PROPERTY..............................13O/SUP-218 REQUESTING ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT FROM THE

CITY.................................................................................14O/SUP-219 CIVIL UNREST................................................................14O/SUP-220 POWER OUTAGES AT FIRE STATIONS.......................18O/SUP-221 RESPONSIBILITIES OF SUPPRESSION PERSONNEL19O/SUP-222 HIGH RISE.......................................................................20O/SUP-223 ELEVATORS...................................................................41O/SUP-224 SPECIAL TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT.............................50O/SUP-225 EMERGENCY RESPONSES..........................................53O/SUP-226 WILDLAND FIRES..........................................................55O/SUP-227 BACKUP LINE POLICY..................................................61O/SUP-228 EMERGENCY SCENE TRAFFIC CONTROL.................62O/SUP-229 MAYDAY POLICY...........................................................64O/SUP-230 RAPID INTERVENTION TEAM (RIT).............................66O/SUP-231 MEDICAL HELICOPTER PROCEDURES......................69O/SUP-232 COMMAND POST RESPONSE GUIDELINES...............71

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O/SUP-233 EMERGENCIES INVOLVING ELECTRICITY 72O/SUP-235 STATION LOG BOOK 78O/SUP-236 APPARATUS BACKING AND HAND SIGNAL MANUAL

82O/SUP-237 STRUCTURE FIRE GUIDELINES 86O/SUP-301 ALMAND LIGHT TOWER / GENERATOR 95O/SUP-302 NATIONAL INCIDENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (NIMS)

97

O/SUP-201 SUPPRESSION ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES UPDATED 6/16/2016

Administrative activities of the suppression work section should be concurrent with the procedures and policies outlined in each section of this manual. These will include, but not be limited to, personnel management, minimum staffing, emergency operations, public education, personnel training, fire prevention programs such as building inspections and surveys, target hazard identification, hydrant inspection, kid safe, and the smoke detector program.

O/SUP-202 STAFFING POLICY UPDATED 7/5/2017

Minimum staffing will be maintained 24 hours per day for all Oklahoma City Fire Department apparatus. Current minimum levels are:

ALS Engine * 4 each * Apparatus used to determine “Station” day off slots.

** Apparatus used to determine “District” day off slots.

BLS Engine, RL, and/or associated Lt. Rescue * 3 eachBP’s ** 1 eachAir-1 ** 1 eachBattalion ChiefDistrict Officer Vehicle ** 2 eachHeavy Tanker ** 1 eachHazmat 5 * 4 eachRescue 8 * 4 eachCSL ** 1 each Table 1

The District Officer shall have the authority to adjust assignments in the district to maintain minimum staffing levels within the district.

DISTRICT HOLD GUIDELINESAll districts are required to provide one hold person above minimum staffing for unexpected daily absences. Unexpected daily absences include sickness, sickness-in-family, death-in-family, and other absences that may arise on a daily basis. Each District Officer will schedule hold stations at least six (6) months in advance. Changes within their district may be made as requested by the Station Officer with the approval of the District Officer. Holds must be rotated according to the number of apparatus with minimum staffing of 3 or more. District slots may not be used for holds with the exception of Holidays, as defined by the CBA. District slot usage for Holidays, as defined by the CBA, will be determined by a drawing held by the District Officer.Hold stations should be rotated in the district to not burden any one station with restricted days for extended periods. Hold persons may be used for department schools, training exercises, meetings and bona-fide Union business as approved by the deputy Deputy Chief of Operations. Hold persons used for these reasons will be subject to being recalled and must be able to return to their worksite within thirty (30) minutes of notification.



Each morning, the employer agrees to drop the number of city wide holds to 3 if they are available. Every shift, the available number of leave opportunities will be communicated to all employees as early as possible via the Fire Department's Intranet site.

DAY OFF SLOTSPursuant to MOU 2016-2017 (2), no apparatus shall have assigned more personnel than it is meant to accommodate. A day off slot is defined as no less than (1) one 24 hour period and may be divided in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Scheduled and approved Vacation or Holiday Leave may be converted to Granted Time for Union and/or Administration purposes, and will still count as a leave slot.

Station Day-Off SlotsStation day off slots are based on the number of personnel at a station assigned to apparatus with minimum staffing of three or greater (see table).

Personnel Assigned to Apparatus with Minimum Staffing of 3 or Greater

Station Day Off Slots

3-5 16-10 211-15 316+ 4

District Day-Off SlotsDistrict day off slots are based on the number of personnel within a district assigned to apparatus with minimum staffing of less than three (see Table 1). Only the stations that contribute to the district slots calculation will be allowed to use the slots from 61 shifts to 7 shifts prior to any date. After 0700 six (6) shifts prior to the requested time off, available staffing within the district is used to fill any remaining leave requests. District slots will be administered by the District Officer in each district. Each District Officer will have the responsibility to ensure personnel a fair, consistent, and transparent way to approve leave from 61 to 57 shifts prior to any requested date. At 0700, 56 shifts prior to any date requested, the district slot will be approved by the District Officer according to the earliest time stamp. Personnel at stations eligible for district slots will only be considered for the district slot if their station day-off slots have been filled. The earliest approved leave request at each station will be considered as using the station's day-off slot. If approved leave at a station is withdrawn by an employee, and another employee at that station has been approved for a district slot, the approved district slot would immediately be considered the station's slot. If an employee withdraws an approved leave request which affects a district slot, he or she must notify their station officer, who will then advise the district officer. This will create an opportunity for another employee to be approved for the district slot. At 0800, 9 shifts prior to a requested date, employees approved for district slots may not withdraw their leave request.

SCHEDULING OF LEAVEEmployees that have properly scheduled and approved leave shall not have their leave cancelled. During times of large scale emergencies and disasters the Fire Chief may cancel leave, restrict the approval of leave, or call back off duty personnel when necessary as per Article 19.3 of the current CBA. It is understood that large scale emergencies and disasters may only cause temporary disruptions in scheduling of leave, and that the Union and city will consult together during those times for the most efficient manpower utilization and productivity per section 1.2 of the CBA. Leave time will be scheduled and approved at the station/district level according to the terms of this policy.1. Leave time shall be administered by the Station Officer at each individual station within minimum staffing

requirements. Employees shall be required to complete submit a Leave Request on-line, print the request, and submit the request and email the confirmation page to their Station Officer. NOTE: If the Station Officer determines the request is eligible for the use of a District day off slot, the Station Officer shall email a copy of the request to the District Officer.

2. The minimum amount of time that can be approved off is 6 hours.3. Once a lesser amount of time has been approved, an employee requesting a greater amount of

time cannot override it.



4. The Station Officer will approve leave up to 61 shifts in advance at the station level. The Station Officer will approve the leave and enter the employee’s time in the Leave Management Data Base. The Leave Request will provide a time stamp for the requested date. Leave requests may not be submitted prior to 0700, 61 shifts from the requested date. Any Leave Request submitted prior to 0700, 61 shifts from the requested date, will be considered invalid.

5. If staffing is not available at the station level, a leave request will be filled out on the computer and entered into the database. Once the request is submitted into the database, it will automatically be electronically time stamped. It is understood that the leave request form is not a guarantee that an employee’s time off will be granted.

6. Leave requests shall be held and administered by the Station Officer until 9 6 shifts from the time requested off. After 0700 hrs nine six (69) shifts prior to the requested time off, any staffing that is available within the district, shall immediately be used to fill any remaining leave requests, based on the valid time stamp, from within the district. After 0700 hrs six three (63) shifts prior to the requested time off, any staffing that is available within the city, shall immediately be used to fill any remaining leave requests, based on the time stamp.

7. For extraordinary circumstances, the Deputy Chief of Operations (or designee) may approve leave time up to twelve (12) months in advance.

8. Personnel taking a portion of a shift off shall return to the station no later than 2300 hrs.9. The Station Officer will manage holidays recognized by the collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA),

Article 16.610. Employees with scheduled and approved leave shall not have their leave cancelled in the event of

a transfer. Transfers occurring on the same shift: all policy provision herein shall apply to ensure their scheduled time off. In the event employees are transferred to another shift, the original time frame including all duty and non-duty days shall be honored. Any duty days falling within that time frame on the employee’s new shift shall be considered scheduled and approved leave.

11. Employees, who choose not to take scheduled and approved leave, will be charged for his/her leave time unless notification is made to their Station Officer, District Officer, and the DAA by 0800 hours of the shift prior to the scheduled leave. Upon notification, the District Officer will ensure that the available staffing is used to fill any pending leave requests.

In order to ensure personnel are allowed to use their scheduled and approved leave when unscheduled or unanticipated long term leave situations would otherwise result in staffing levels being reduced below minimum requirements, the Deputy Chief of Operations (or designee) may use any of the options listed below:

a. Allow the use of the district hold person within the district in question.b. Approve the use of the hold person from other districts if available, within six (6) shifts of the

date in question.c. Cancel or reschedule training and the person(s) scheduled to attend the training can be

reassigned to maintain minimum staffing levels.d. Temporarily re-assign Community Service Liaison (s) (CSL)e. Employees with scheduled and approved leave will be offered their regular hourly pay rate,

according to the CBA, in addition to their regular pay to report to duty on a scheduled leave day. This additional pay will be for the amount and type of leave scheduled. Employees with approved leave for the day in question will be offered the additional pay first and in ascending order by initial entry time stamp until minimum staffing levels are met. Employees that opt to report for duty on a scheduled leave day will have the amount of leave scheduled deducted from their accrued vacation or holiday leave.

After considering and/or using the options above, if minimum staffing levels are not met the Fire Chief (or designee) will exercise the following option:



CALL-BACK PROCEDURECall-back will be used under the following guidelines to maintain minimum staffing levels in suppression. Call-back for the purpose of maintaining minimum staffing is not considered an emergency situation. Emergency situations are addressed by Article 19.3 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and are authorized by the Fire Chief or his/her designee.

1. Call back shall be a voluntary program for FLSA 7 (k) 24hr operations personnel only who have completed the probationary period. All eligible personnel will be added to the call back list after completing the recruit probationary period. Employees will be placed on the call-back list in order of their seniority on the department. Employees with the same hire date will be added to the list in alphabetical order. Call back shall always start at the top of the list working downward according to the terms of this procedure. Employees called back shall be assigned to work at a location as determined by the Deputy Chief of Operations or their designee. Reasonable efforts should be made to assign personnel where they can function within their rank/classification.

2. Employees working call back shall receive 1½ times their regular hourly rate of pay as per Article 19.1 of the current CBA for all call back hours worked. Time will commence when the employee arrives at the call-back assignment and end when the employee leaves the work site.

3. Employees must work their last scheduled shift or be off on approved leave (due day, comp time, vacation leave or holiday leave) prior to being called back. Employees on sick leave, injury leave, or any other administrative leave including FMLA, will not be eligible for call back until they have been released to return to regular duty, but shall retain their position on the call back list.

4. Employees rejecting call back will move to the bottom of the call back list. If the employee accepts call back, their name will be moved to the bottom of the call back list.

5. Employees must provide a contact phone number. Failure to reach an employee at the provided numbers will be considered a rejection of the call back. Employees are not allowed to work callback on their regularly scheduled duty day. If an employee is next up to be called, and the call-back falls on his/her assigned duty day, the employee shall be passed over yet retain their position on the call back list. Should a complete rotation of the call back list not result in the attainment of required staffing levels, subsequent notification shall require mandatory participation, and will start with the least senior employees on the call back list. Exceptions to mandatory overtime will be allowed in instances where the employee is unable to report to duty in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 6. Employees shall be informed of the estimated call back period when offered call back.

6. An employee being called back must be able to report to duty in less than 1½ hours or reject the call back. Employees accepting a call-back offer will be compensated for not less than (4) four hours and must be available for the full call back period. In the event that a call back employee is unable to work the full call back period due to sickness, injury or other emergency he/she will be paid for the call back hours worked. Failure to report after acceptance of a call back assignment within the allotted time shall result in an employee being subject to Administration SOP, A/EXC-218 Late for Duty.

7. At no time will employees be allowed to work more than three consecutive shifts seventy-two (72) hours. In situations where the employee would be required to work more than seventy-two (72) consecutive hours, the employee will be ineligible for the call back, but will retain their position on the call back list.

8. Employees accepting call back must physically report to duty. Duty exchanges for straight time call back (earned leave buy back for normal duty days) or off duty call back (at time-and-one-half) under the terms of this Call Back Procedure shall not be allowed.

O/SUP-203 COMPANY RELIEF UPDATED 1/15/2015



When a Company leaves the station to relieve another company at an emergency scene at shift changing time, the Company Officer will log their time leaving the station in the station log book. When the company that was relieved returns to the station, the officer will log their time in upon arrival at the station.

O/SUP-204 RELIEF DRIVERS POLICY UPDATED 6/6/2016

Employees with less than one (1) year seniority will not drive any fire apparatus, except a District Officer's car, unless approved by the Deputy Chief of Operations.

An employee with over one year seniority and with less than two (2) years seniority will not drive any fire apparatus, except a District Officer’s car, until they have satisfied one of two requirements.1. They must have successfully completed the Apparatus Operators Academy at the Fire Training

Work Section; or2. They must be checked off, on the Training Work Section's check list, by their Company Officer and

certified to the Training Work Section on each piece of apparatus that they may drive.The employee must attend the AOA at the Training Division when scheduled to do so even if they have been certified by their Company Officer. An employee with less than two years’ service will not drive on a regular rotation basis. They may drive after completing one of the two requirements, only on an as needed basis. An employee in this category will not drive if any other firefighter is on duty at that station that has over two years of service and has been to the AOA. All employees that have over two years’ service and have successfully completed the AOA will rotate relief driving on a regular schedule, unless they do not want to relief drive, or unless documentation has been presented to the Deputy Chief of Operations, and it is determined that it would be in the best interest of the Department that this individual not be allowed to relief drive.All personnel driving any Oklahoma City Fire Department equipment must possess a valid Oklahoma State driver’s license. Each individual's driver license will be subject to a validity check semiannually.Seniority is based on the date of last employment with the Oklahoma City Fire Department.There should be flexibility to allow Code 1 driving and to encourage station school on driving in protected area for those employees with more than one year of service but have not been certified by their company officer, or who have not completed AOA.

O/SUP-205 ANSWERING STATION CIRCUIT UPDATED 6/16/2016

When answering the station circuit, the person will answer the circuit immediately with the station number and their last name, except at the 0600 circuit test. After answering the 0600 circuit test, DO NOT hang up until all stations have answered.

O/SUP-206 OFFICE SUPPLY PROCEDURES UPDATED 7/5/2017

The C-shift District Officers are in charge of the office supplies. Office supply requests are to be submitted on the Quarterly Order Form (see attached). Non-Consumable or specialty items are to be ordered on the Office Supplies - Order Form Non-Consumables (see attached). Order forms are to be turned in to the Deputy Chief of Operations no later than the last week of June, September, December, March, and will be distributed the last week of the following month. The Deputy Chief will review all orders for reasonableness.

Supplies will be picked up in Administration the last week of July, October, January, and April. The District Officer is responsible for checking orders for accuracy and distributing supplies to the stations.

Every effort should be made to ensure that your quarterly amounts will last through the quarter. If supplies are needed between quarters, the appropriate District Officer will make the request on a pink memovia email to the Deputy Chief of Operations and his Administrative Assistant. The District Officer will be notified by Administration when the order is ready.



O/SUP-207 EMERGENCY STATION SUPPLY PROCEDURES UPDATED 7/5/2017

EMERGENCIESIf an emergency arises due to a supply item being seriously low, the District Officer can submit an email to the Deputy Chief of Operations. This should be done after the District Officer has checked the district to insure the item is not available at another station. If another shift has an emergency order, and cannot wait until the “A” shift comes back on duty, they can follow the above instructions for an emergency only by sending an e-mail to the Operations Division Office Coordinator.

NON-CONSUMABLESThe Non-Consumable Tools & Equipment order form. The form is to be filled out and signed by the District Officer. The form is then submitted to the Deputy Chief of Operations for approval. If approved, the Deputy Chief will forward the form to the Maintenance Facility. These items will be received no later than the next regularly scheduled quarterly supplies. A copy will be retained by the Maintenance Facility and a copy will be given to the station when they pick up their supplies.

If a non-consumable tools and equipment item is needed quickly, write EMERGENCY at the top of the Non-Consumable order form. Upon receipt of the order form, the Deputy Chief will insure that the Maintenance Facility has the item in stock. If the item is available, the District Officer will be given the approved order form to take to the Maintenance Facility to pick up the needed item(s). The District Officer will insure that an addition is made to the appropriate station’s supply history.

Firefighter tools and equipment will be handled on an as needed basis. The District Officer will be responsible for tracking history by station. The history will be compared and evaluated for future quarterly case lot needs. For items not listed on an order form, submit the request by e-mail to the Deputy Chief of Operations.

O/SUP-208 OPERATIONS TRAINING UPDATED 7/5/2017

To establish training procedures, methods and routines for the Suppression Division Work Section conducted at the shift, district or station level, separate from those courses, academies, etc. conducted by the Training, Emergency Medical Services and Special Teams Operations work sections. To also identify the training programs conducted by Suppression DivisionWork Section. The training identified in this section applies to, but is not limited to, Suppression Work Section personnel. (24 hr. shift, suppression Suppression personnel)

RESPONSIBILITYThe Deputy Chief will ensure that the training identified in this section conforms to the Department's goals. The Deputy Chief will coordinate operations level training to accommodate training established by the Training, EMS or Specialty Teams Operations work sections, etc. All matters concerning scheduling, facilities, equipment or personnel involved may be subject to the approval of the Deputy Chief.

The Deputy Chief will ensure that the training identified in this section is implemented on all shifts. The Deputy Chief will ensure uniformity of the training activities throughout on all shifts. The Deputy Chief at his/her discretion, may identify specific training needs, and implement programs to meet those needs, ensuring that these programs conform to the goals of the Department.

The District Officers will implement the training identified in this section in their respective districts. They will initiate and route the proper documentation associated with this training, to the proper Division or office. The District Officer will procure facilities, equipment, etc. needed to accomplish the training programs in their district. They may identify specific training needs for their district and develop programs to meet those needs, ensuring that those programs conform to the goals of the Department. The District Officer will schedule and coordinate training activities when multi-station training is warranted.



The Station Officer will conduct the training identified in this section at their station. They will schedule the training in a manner that conforms to the daily work routine and with other station/company activities. The Station Officer will ensure the completion and submit proper documentation upon completion of training when necessary. They will assign instructors,instructors; determine facilities and equipment to be used.

The Station Officer will ensure that any and all safety measures be taken into consideration and are in place before training activities commence. They will also ensure that all personnel involved are informed of, and use proper safety measures and practices. The Station and Company Officers may identify specific training needs for their station and develop programs to meet those needs, ensuring that they conform to the goals of the Department.



O/SUP-210 FIRE DISTRICT MANAGEMENT UPDATED 7/5/2017

The fire district management concept allows for more direct contact between the fire station personnel and the public. Event scheduling such as station tours, presentations to the public, home owners association meetings, etc., should be scheduled at the station level. Any requests originated at the administrative offices will be forwarded to the fire station nearest to the activity.

All requests for interaction with the public should be made through the station officer. Every effort should be made to have the person requesting the activity contact the officer that will be on duty the day the activity is scheduled to take place. It is the Station Officers’ responsibility to notify their District Officer when the activity will take place and to log the activity on Target Solutions (select “Self-Assign”, then “General Activities-Non Emergency Safety Activities”). If a scheduling conflict arises and the officer cannot keep an appointment the District Officer may reassign the activity. Excellence in service to the public should be emphasized in any public relations effort.

O/SUP-211 BUILDING PREPLAN PROGRAM UPDATED 7/5/2017

The goal of the program is to increase knowledge about buildings in the fire company’s response district. The survey information may also be used in pre-fire planning sessions and daily schools, as well as to make the preplan information readily available to response personnel on the MDC.

Buildings should be in the first alarm district of each station. Structures with the greatest potential for loss of life in the event of a fire should receive priority. Structures with unusual features that hinder firefighting efforts, or pose specific hazards to firefighters should also receive priority. The following is a list of structures and how they will typically be prioritized:

Priority 1 Structures Priority 2 Structures Priority 3 Structures Multi-family dwellings

Nursing/Retirement Homes

Hospitals

Schools

Tier-2 Hazardous Materials Facilities

Churches

Other Public assembly areas

High Rise building where no one sleeps

Airports

Non Tier 2 Hazardous Materials Facilities

Commercial structures with hazardous features

Mobile Home parks

Large commercial or industrial facilities

Other business that present a hazard

Due to the possible risk to firefighters, Tier 2 facilities will receive a high priority. When a Code Enforcement Officer has a target inspection of a “Tier 2” or other extremely hazardous facility they will contact the station officer of the first in company. The station officer and code inspector will coordinate so that a preplan and inspection can be completed at the same time. The other two shifts who are off duty the day of the inspection will schedule a walk-through of the facility as soon as possible.

Outlying areas that have difficulty selecting buildings within the criteria may make other surveys unique to their area. Unique surveys should have prior approval of the District Officer. Examples include: oil storage facilities and/or comprehensive area map section plans for wildland (urban interface) stations.

All plans should be completed using the Quick CAD Program. The standardized symbols in the Quick CAD will be used when possible. If any symbols must be used that are not among the standardized symbols, a legend will be needed to define the symbols. Any structures that are required to have a 704 placard will have the 704 symbol with appropriate numbers on the preplan situated by the doors that are closest to the hazard.

There will be a preplan completed and submitted by all three shifts at each station every month. Any deficiencies noted while completing the preplan should be reported to an OKCFD Code Inspector.



When completing the preplan, keep in mind that concise, written information is necessary to give a full understanding of the plan by other companies.

The building survey form should consists of three pages and can be downloaded from Target Solutions Bulletin Board. Page one is a Quick Cad drawing for the first arriving company. The drawing will only consist of information important to the first arriving company. Orient the drawing so that North is at the top of the page. In addition, the drawing should take up the entire space provided on the page when possible to allow for ease of viewing on the MDC.

Page two will be a Word document containing written information about the building survey in a “fill in the blank” format. All areas should be completed, or labeled N/A when appropriate, and include the following:

Building Type: The designated building types are type 1 to type 5.

Building Size: This includes the number of floors and a designation of small, medium or large.

Small: 200 ft. line will reach 100% of the building.

Medium: 200 ft. line will reach 75% of the building.

Large: 200 ft. line will reach 50% or less of the building.

Hazards: Identify any specific or unusual hazards known in or around this building. An example would be a pitched roof over a flat roof.

Sprinkler: Identify if the building has a sprinkler system. Also note if the system is complete or partial.

Special considerations: Include any other areas of concern that need to be identified.

Emergency contact: Name and phone number of a primary and alternate contact for the building.

Page three of the building survey is a more detailed drawing of the structure. This includes items that may be needed by later arriving companies or Chief Officers.

Additional pages may be added when necessary. Color drawings may be used however no photos can be used in the survey (photos are too large to store on the computer aided dispatch system and download to the MDC.)

The following is a 3-step process for submitting the completed survey.

1. Verify the building address is valid in GIS (Address verification map service).

2. Save the completed document as a PDF file using the verified building address as the file name (this should be saved on the Z drive under your station folder).

Example: 820 NW 5th St.pdf

3. The District Officer will then do the following:

a. Ensure the survey meets their expectations.

b. Ensure the file name is the address and is valid in GIS.

c.Ensure the file size is less than 300 KB.

d. Save the final copy in the \\svs911db01\pre-plans folder.

The building surveys will be moved to “processed” or “rejected” folder once they are loaded in CAD.



O/SUP-212 CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRE HOSE UPDATED 6/16/2016

Hose on engine companies, tank pumpers, hose tender, brush pumpers shall be marked on each section with the apparatus designation and section number for all hose with the exception for the booster hose. Construction of hose is as follows 1 ¾”, 2” ½”, 3” Double polyester jacket, rubber-lined, with lightweight extruded aluminum couplings. 4”, & 5” hose is constructed of 3-ply synthetic construction, rubber-lined, with stortz couplings.

The current fire hose does not require drying before loading. Only one hose load will be issued to each company. The hose should be cleaned by washing down with water to remove mud and debris before loading. Company officers will inventory the hose assigned to their apparatus on the first Monday in the months of January, April, July, and October. When repairs are needed, a fire department work order (white) and the section of hose needing repair will be sent to the maintenance shop. The hose will be marked to indicate the hole, tear, etc.1 ¾”, 2” ½”, 3” couplings should be lubricated with graphite. Inspect the couplings to ensure they turn freely and threads are in good shape. 4” and 5” couplings should have the rubber gasket lubricated . The maintenance shop will furnish the lubricant.

All fire hose will be tested annually. The annual hose test will be in September of each year and is currently being done by an outside vendor. In the event an outside vendor isn’t used to test the hose, it will be the duty of the station officers to coordinate between shifts to decide which day during the month of September they want to conduct the hose test. All hose will be tested according to the appropriate NFPA Standard. Extra effort should be expended in winter months to see that the hose lengths are tightly coupled to prevent leaking. Once a hose line is charged at freezing temperature, it must not be shut down until it is ready to be picked up. If it is not practical immediately to drain and pick up the hose lines, some water should be kept running through the hose by slightly opening the nozzle. This will prevent the line from freezing. When closing the nozzle, slowly nudge the shutoff handle towards the closed position until a small stream is still flowing. If the nozzle is completely closed, it could freeze shut and be rendered immovable until it is thawed out.

When lines are to be picked up in frigid weather and there are several lines in the street, take time to select the hose that is mostly on top of the others as the first one to pick up. If the hoses are lying side by side, take up the hose nearest to the edge of the street. Remember, this has to be a fast operation, so the method likely to tangle the hose least should be used. A crew member should be stationed at each coupling; all personnel should concentrate on picking up one line at a time. The moment the line is shut down at the pump, as each crew member uncouples a length of hose it should be walked out to its length, with the hose draped over one shoulder to drain it.

Do not take time to drain the hose completely as it is crucial that the hose rolling start immediately. If the hose is dry on the outside and it is rolled rapidly, even though the weather is extremely cold, the hose can probably be rolled before a crunching feeling indicates that ice is starting to form. Avoid unnecessary bends; haste in getting the hose rolled is more important than neatness.

Handling fire hose in a frozen condition is common cause of damage. With enough time, water will permeate fabric hose jackets to various degrees and will freeze in the winter months. Fibers in the jacket will become weakened if the hose is treated roughly; threads are likely to be broken, seriously damaging the hose. If the hose is not frozen solid, several crew members working together can make two or three bends in the hose and place it over the pumper hose bed for transportation back to the station.



O/SUP-213 APPARATUS INVENTORIES UPDATED 6/16/2016

A current and up-to-date inventory sheet will be carried on all Fire Department apparatus including District Officer's vehicles. Each District Officer will maintain a current and up-to-date inventory sheet on each apparatus in their district and it will be carried in the District Officer's vehicle for easy reference. A master inventory list will be maintained in the Deputy Chief’s office to include all front line equipment including the Deputy Chief’s vehicle. Before any addition or deletion is made to the inventory of any apparatus, the Deputy Chief of Operations must approve it.

On the first day of each month, it shall be the responsibility of the Company Officer to conduct an inventory of each apparatus at their respective station. Any change in inventory noted will be forwarded to their respective District Officer in written form, with a full explanation, in reference to change.

After each major incident, where alarms are dispatched, it shall be the responsibility of the Company Officer to conduct an inventory of their apparatus. This inventory shall be conducted no later than the following shift of such response. An email shall be forwarded through proper channels to the Deputy Chief of Operations indicating equipment lost or gained. District Officers will oversee the return of equipment to the proper company.

It shall be the responsibility of the Company Officer to conduct an inventory of their apparatus after responding to incidents outside the city limits of Oklahoma City and in unincorporated areas. This includes all mutual aid calls, EMS or fire calls. This inventory shall be the responsibility of the District Officer to be involved in monthly inventories on a periodic basis or at any time deemed necessary to assure correct and up-to-date inventories are maintained. Inventories should be periodically checked by the District Officer, during apparatus inspections.

O/SUP-214 STOPPING AT RED LIGHTS UPDATED 1/15/2015

“All emergency fire equipment responding Code 3, will make a complete STOP at all signal lights that are RED and intersections where “stop-signs” are in use”. Once obtaining a safe clearance, proceed through the intersection.

Extreme caution is also to be exercised when approaching an intersection when the signal light is green. There will be no exceptions to this policy, regardless of the nature of the call. Disciplinary action will be taken against any driver and/or officer who has an accident caused by running a red light Code 3, without stopping.

O/SUP-215 FIRE DEPARTMENT FUNCTIONS WHERE FATALITIES ARE INVOLVED

UPDATED 6/16/2016

The Fire Department Incident Commander (or designee) will contact dispatch to request Fire Investigators and the on-call Homicide Lieutenant providing the pertinent information surrounding the fire and discovery of the body. In all cases when OCPD and/or OKCFD personnel are on a fire death scene, the scene will be secured and protected as required. All witnesses will be separated and secured with the assistance of police operations personnel. Public safety, crime scene investigation, and evidence preservation, are of paramount importance during the initial arrival of first responders.

Anytime a possibility exists that evidence may be lost during the initial stages of response, the first investigators to arrive at the scene, whether Police or Fire personnel, will take the necessary steps to preserve evidence. Once the Homicide Unit arrives at the scene, the Homicide Unit Investigator(s) and or Lieutenant(s) will take charge of the crime scene investigation. Fire Department Investigators and the Police Department Homicide Unit will investigate the death conjointly.



After a fire has been extinguished, the fire or police personnel discovering a person’s body will:

A. Check for conclusive signs of death, and call for EMSA if appropriate; and

B. Secure the scene and maintain scene security until relieved by personnel from either the Fire Investigators or the OCPD Homicide Unit.

RESPONSIBILITY OF FIRE DEPARTMENT INCIDENT COMMANDER OR DESIGNEEThe Fire Department Incident Commander or designee will be required to complete the following tasks:

A. Notify EMSA (if appropriate);

B. Notify Police dispatcher, to request Homicide Units; and

C. Notify Fire dispatcher, to request Fire Investigators.

D. Once the area is secured, a complete list of persons who entered the scene prior to and after discovery of the death will be obtained.

E. Refer to Peace Officer’s Guide regarding Crime Scene Log.

Upon arrival of the Homicide/ Fire Investigators, they will be briefed concerning the fire circumstances (if known), information pertaining to possible witnesses, fire survivors, and the discovery of human remains.

The Fire Department should not remove a victim unless it is necessary to preserve the body. This is a function of the Medical Examiner and Police Officers on the scene. Do not let any other agency at the scene influence you or accept their orders for you to move the victim.

Use extreme caution in salvage or overhaul to preserve the scene. Do not start salvage or clean-up operations until the proper authority has released the area. This also includes suspicious fires that an investigator has been called on to investigate.

As soon as the Fire Department has completed their immediate functions, and must wait for the Medical Examiner and Police Officer to complete their functions, they should assemble outside the secured area. This will prevent any further trampling of evidence or disturbing of the scene. It will also provide the other agencies an opportunity to complete their tasks and investigations. The Incident Commander should leave only required personnel that are needed to complete the operations.

Release of Victims’ NamesThe Oklahoma City Fire Department will not release the names of injured and deceased fire and accident victims. The Police Department is responsible for notification of next of kin. The Medical Examiner’s Office will do a positive I.D.; therefore OKCFD will not release the names of victims. The Medical Examiner’s Office or the Police Department will release names of victims.



O/SUP-216 EMERGENCY LOCK-OUT PROCEDURES UPDATED 6/16/2016

The Oklahoma City Fire Department will respond to emergency lock-outs to provide the citizens of Oklahoma City the service of gaining entry to their automobile or structure when they are locked out in emergency situations.

The following procedures will be followed by Fire Department Dispatchers and responding companies.

DISPATCHDispatch will screen all calls to determine if the lockout is an emergency and Fire Department response is necessary.1. Establish if the situation is emergency or non-emergency.

2. Determine if other keys are available to the calling party.

3. Determine if a locksmith has been contacted. Some insurance carriers will pay to have an insured' vehicle unlocked by a locksmith. This is something the owner may want to consider in non-emergency situations.

4. Determine exact location, make, model, and color of vehicle.

5. Inform calling party they will be required to sign a release form.

Assuming that a response is necessary, the following will apply:a. The Dispatch Office will direct the calling party to remain at the scene until the Fire

Department arrives and will obtain a call back number if possible.

b. One fire company, one Oklahoma City Police Officer, and EMSA will be dispatched on lock-outs involving children. In no case will the Dispatcher leave the calling party without assistance.

RESPONDING COMPANIES1. Companies responding to an emergency lock-out will be dispatched over the audio and will

respond Code 3, unless notified to do otherwise. The company officer will assess the emergency and use proper judgment on the least damaging way to enter the vehicle.

2. On lock-outs, companies will have owner or occupant, of the vehicle or structure, read and sign the Permission to Enter Vehicle or Structure form in order to ensure the owner or occupant understands the release form.

3. The officer in charge shall determine the validity of the owner before releasing the vehicle or structure. For example: vehicle insurance verification, name, address, insurance company, etc. For structures: driver’s license, address, neighbors, etc. The officer should use good judgment in this regard.

4. The company officer should be prudent and extend courtesy on all lock-out situations when providing this service to the citizens of Oklahoma City.

5. If there are any questions regarding this procedure, contact your District Officer.

O/SUP-217 DAMAGE TO PRIVATEPOST-INCIDENT SECURITY OF PRIVATE PROPERTY

UPDATED 1/15/2015

The company officer will be responsible for taking appropriate action when any damage is done to private property, i.e., cutting fence, chains on fences, locks, etc. They will notify their District Officer and the homeowner. If possible, they shall try to repair minor damage before leaving the scene if there is a possibility of further harm to the property or possessions of the homeowner, or if the security of the property is in jeopardy.



O/SUP-218 REQUESTING ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT FROM THE CITY UPDATED 6/16/2016

When a Company Officer requests any heavy equipment from another City department, a District Officer will be dispatched to the scene and, if he/she approves, the District Officer will contact OKCFD Emergency Management. The District Officer will then notify the Deputy Chief of Operations.

O/SUP-219 CIVIL UNREST UPDATED 7/1/2012

The purpose of this policy is to establish procedures for the safety of department personnel at incidents that involve violence, unrest, or civil disturbance. Such situations may include fights, riots, violent crimes, drug related situations, family disturbances, deranged individuals and people interfering with fire department operations, and are further defined as:

Violence: Any aggressive act by civilians toward a fire department member or other city official while in performance of their respective duty.

Civil Disturbance: Any domestic emergency such as a riot, and/or public panic, that has the potential of causing casualties or major damage to property.

PERSONNEL RESPONDING TO VIOLENT INCIDENTSFire Dispatchers upon receiving a call that has the potential for violence will:1. Dispatch the appropriate company(ies).

2. Relay any comments obtained from the police department.

3. Determine if a police officer(s) has been assigned or enroute to the call, and notify the company(ies).

4. Give necessary situation status reports to responding company(ies) .

First Arriving Company Officer will:1. Establish command

2. Determine if responding into the scene is safe for crew(s) or stand-by until police officers(s) arrive.

3. Conduct scene assessment and update fire dispatchers of the situation.

4. If a police officer(s) is (are) on the scene, discuss crew safety.

5. Ensure crew members are wearing appropriate protective clothing.

6. Continually monitor the incident scene to decide if tension escalates.

Crew Members will:1. Wear full protective clothing as necessary

2. Be alert to surroundings, do not disturb evidence.

3. Conduct themselves in a way that will not result in hostile confrontations.

4. Maintain crew integrity and accountability.



OPERATING AT AN INCIDENT THAT TURNS VIOLENTCompany officer will:1. Decide crew(s) safety first, immediately notify dispatch, request police respond, and then give a

situation status report.

2. Decide if crew should evacuate area until police arrive. If crew should evacuate crew members will:

a. Pick up equipment and leave the scene at the same time, when possible.

b. Move apparatus/equipment to a safe distance from incident; notify dispatch of location, and safest routes into area, if possible.

c. Do not re-enter scene until cleared by police.

Fire Dispatchers will:1. Notify Police Department and relay information from company, advise police of safest routes into area.

2. Notify appropriate District Officer of incident and safest routes into area.

District Officers will:1. Respond to the company location, obtain briefing from company officer, and assume command of

the incident.

OPERATIONS AT CIVIL DISTURBANCEFire department role:During a period of civil disturbance the role of the fire department will not change however, tactical issues may need to be reconsidered. The fire department is responsible for providing fire protection, rescue, and emergency medical services to the citizens of Oklahoma City. It is not the responsibility of the fire department, or any of its members to maintain, or attempt to maintain order of the citizens. Civil disturbance incidents will be emotionally charged; therefore, all personnel must remember to remain calm and act in a professional manner.

Response levels will be initiated and/or escalated by the Fire Chief, or his designee, based on credible information from the Oklahoma City Police Department Incident Commander. All fire department facilities will be notified, by Fire Dispatch, of the response level and area involved by circuit, telephone, or mobile data computer. Fire department radio communications may be monitored by the general public. Think about what you will broadcast before saying it on the radio.

Response Levels:LEVEL 1 – THREAT LEVEL 2 – ACTUAL DISTURBANCEAn increased state of readiness for specific facilities, stations, or districts, where threatening circumstances or conditions may show the possibility of civil disturbance or violence.

Actual physical violence against property or human life on a large scale.

Actions to be taken during a Level 1 – Threat:1. All facilities in a THREAT area will be kept secure and locked. Items in personal vehicles should be

secured.

2. The fuel tanks of all apparatus must be kept as full as possible.3. All companies on the radio will return to their respective stations. During normal business hours support

division supervisors will notify their, on duty, personnel to return to their work sites.4. Fire dispatchers will lock all doors leading to Fire Dispatch Center.

5. Check security of underground fuel tanks and shut off electrical power to fuel pumps.



6. Any exposed equipment on the apparatus should be secured in a compartment where possible. The Maintenance Shop should call for police security of the maintenance facility, depending on the situation.

7. When going off duty, all personnel will take their fire protective clothing with them. They should monitor TV, radio, and telephone for possible recall information.

8. If the decision is made by the Fire Chief, or his designee, to abandon fire department buildings the following actions should be taken:

a. Any reserve apparatus will be taken with the regular apparatus to the designated location. b. All microphones, radios, chargers, and protective clothing should be removed from the building.

c. If there is an emergency medical supply locker, the contents should be removed and transported.d. The main electrical switch to the building will be turned off and steps taken to disable the

backup generator.Actions to be taken during a Level 2 - Actual Disturbance:1. Fire dispatch will relay location of the Police command post to the district officer closest to the

incident. The district officer should respond to the location of the Police command post, obtain briefing on the incident and area security.

2. District officer will identify a staging area for apparatus and determine what will be needed.

3. Law Enforcement will first establish the legitimacy of the call and if legitimate, will provide an escort into the area and protection at the scene. The district officer will then dispatch apparatus into the incident from the staging area.

4. Responses into areas not affected by the civil disturbance will be handled using usual dispatch procedures on a different radio channel.

SETTING INCIDENT RESPONSE PRIORITIESThese priorities are guidelines and do not restrict the incident commander’s discretion.1. Reports of life in danger in occupied structures.

2. Occupied structures.3. Vacant structures with occupied exposures.

4. Vital public utility structures.5. Other incidents as resources permit.

Companies within Perimeter:1. Company integrity and accountability must be maintained. Personnel should not be without radio

contact and no firefighter should be left alone.2. When riding in the apparatus all personnel must wear all appropriate protective clothing, including

helmet, and keep the apparatus windows closed.3. Company officers and drivers must take precautions not to allow apparatus to become trapped, or

blocked in, preventing the ability to escape. Apparatus should be backed into positions if necessary.

4. Personnel will not engage in “police actions.” Example: Neither hose streams nor deck guns will be used to disperse or control crowds.

5. Personnel should conduct themselves in a way that will not result in hostile confrontations. If personnel are attacked, use only the force necessary to get away from the situation. Firefighters are strictly forbidden to carry firearms or to have weapons in their possession, or on the apparatus, except those personnel who have been commissioned by the fire department, because of their normal job duties.

6. Be alert for traps and ambushes.



7. Keep time inside the perimeter to a minimum. Use discretion when loading hose or filling water tanks, it would be safer to do those tasks in the staging area.

Abandoning Violent Area:The fire department incident commander will decide whether fire personnel and equipment will be pulled out of a violent area based on the following considerations:

Is the safety of fire personnel beyond acceptable risk?

Will the law enforcement protection pull out?

Is there violence being directed toward the fire personnel?

Is the law enforcement in the area able to control the situation?

Is the property worth saving?

If the decision is made to abandon the area:1. The incident commander will make an announcement over the radio.

2. Apparatus drivers will sound air horn by using THREE HORN BLASTS.

3. All personnel will pick up their equipment, if feasible, and leave the area as soon as possible.

4. Personnel will respond back to the staging area and inform the incident commander of what company(ies) are clear of the area.

NOTE: Fire Personnel Safety is Paramount!

General Information:1. Utilize fire department’s incident command system. Unify fire, EMS, and police commands and

other agencies where possible.

2. During civil disturbance incidents, normal strategies and tactics will be altered to provide for additional safety of personnel.

3. Companies should work for a quick fire knock down using deck guns and ladder pipes as much as possible. No personnel will be positioned at the aerial ladder’s tip.

4. Be aware that one incident may be a diversionary tactic to another incident that poses a bigger threat.

5. Secure law enforcement support before dispatching fire crews into area.

6. Ensure police protection is provided for the staging area.

7. If the civil disturbance will be of a long duration, consider housing, feeding, and rehabilitation of personnel.

8. Be alert to suspicious people and/or packages.



O/SUP-220 POWER OUTAGES AT FIRE STATIONS UPDATED 1/1/2013

Power outages can occur at any time in Oklahoma City. Fire Stations are dependent upon power for day-to-day and emergency operations and even a short power outage can cause longer response times. Station officers should take the following actions in the event of a power outage at a fire station.

Outages lasting greater than 30 seconds (Short-duration): 1.Notify Dispatch the power is out

a.Dispatch will call OG&E to report the outage

b.Dispatch will dispatch over the radio and will also call the station on the station phone or circuit phone (keep in mind the station phone or circuit phone may also be inoperable due to the power outage)

c.If the station is ALS, take the ALS cell phone into the station

2.Bring a hand-held radio into the station and monitor Fire ALERT talk groupa.The alerting system at all fire stations requires power

b.Alerts can be heard over the Fire ALERT talk group

3.Open the over-head doors (Weather Permitting) to allow apparatus to leave the station without power

4.Notify the station’s District Officera.District Officer will notify Deputy Chief of Operations

b.District Officer will also contact Facilities Coordinator

Extended Outages lasting greater than 4 hours (Long Duration):1.Call Dispatch back

a.Report the outage is continuing

b.Dispatch will contact OG&E to re-report the outage

2.Notify the station’s District Officera.District Officer will contact Emergency Management Liaison to obtain an additional portable

generator if needed

b.District Officer will notify the Facilities Coordinator of the use of a portable generator

Special Considerations:1.Keep weather conditions in mind

a.If temperatures are extreme (cold or hot) consider requesting a portable generator sooner

2.Use a common-sense approach to all situations

3.Stations that have a permanent generator should make sure it is regularly maintained



O/SUP-221 RESPONSIBILITIES OF SUPPRESSION PERSONNEL UPDATED 1/15/2015

RESPONSIBILITIES - COMPANY AND OFFICERThese standard operating procedures are designed to be used by all Fire Department personnel during emergency operations in conjunction with the Incident Management System and all existing policies and procedures of the Oklahoma City Fire Department. Each written procedure is meant to be a general guide to Company Operations during a specific type of emergency incident. They are not intended to limit or restrict a Company Officer in performance of emergency scene operations. They are to be used as a guide and tool in the company’s service to the public. The standard operating procedures presented in this manual cover these types of emergency operations.

1. High Rise Operations.2. Commercial Response Operations.

3. Residential Fire Alarms.

4. Medical Calls.5. Water Rescue Operations.

6. Single Company Operations.

Each company function (Company Officer, Apparatus Operator, and Firefighter) will have specific responsibilities according to the type of emergency they respond to. There are however, responsibilities at each company function level that will apply to every type of incident.

One example of this type of standard operation procedure is that of “size-up”. Size-up is performed by every company officer on every incident.

RESPONSIBILITIES - COMPANY OFFICERCompany Officer will operate within the Incident Management System in compliance with orders of the Incident Commander.

Company Officer is responsible for the maximum level of safety for the entire company on every emergency response.

Company Officer is responsible for preventing damage to all property of the Oklahoma City Fire Department during emergency responses.

Company Officer will perform during all emergency operations in such a manner as to provide the maximum service to the public in the protection of life and property.

Company Officer is responsible for all emergency operations being in compliance with all existing Fire Department policies and procedures.

RESPONSIBILITIES - APPARATUS OPERATOR All Apparatus Operator will operate within the Incident Management System and the specific orders of the Company Officer in order to maintain unity of command and complete tactical operations in the safest, most efficient way possible.

The Apparatus Operator will operate Fire Department equipment in a safe and efficient manner while enroute during on-scene operations and while returning to quarters in accordance with all existing Fire Department policies and procedures.

Apparatus Operators will perform in a safe and professional manner during emergency operations in order to deliver the maximum service to the public.

The Apparatus Operator will immediately advise the Company Officer of any unsafe condition or failure of equipment that may develop during emergency operations.



RESPONSIBILITIES - FIREFIGHTEREach Firefighter will operate within the Incident Management System in compliance with the orders of the Company Officer.

Firefighters will perform all assigned duties during emergency operations in accordance with all existing Fire Department policies and procedures.

Firefighters will immediately notify the Company Officer of any unsafe condition during emergency operations.

Firefighters shall perform all emergency operations in the safest, most professional manner in order to ensure efficient team operations and service to the public.

O/SUP-222 HIGH RISE UPDATED 7/5/2017

These operating procedures are to be used by all Oklahoma City Fire Department personnel during fire operations in High Rise building incidents. These procedures are to be used in conjunction with the Incident Management System and all other existing policies and procedures of the Oklahoma City Fire Department.These procedures are not intended to limit the decision-making abilities of the Incident Commander. The procedures are intended to establish basic assignments for first arriving companies and to form a command structure the Incident Commander can build upon.HIGH-RISE INCIDENT OVERVIEWMost modern high-rises are as much as 75% lighter in mass than earlier constructed buildings (prior to 1940). They are also taller, with open landscaped floors as large as 20,000 square foot. The content loading in a modern high-rise can generate as much as 2 ½ times the B.T.U. output of the fires from which current codes were derived. These large, open floors provide ample oxygen and fuel and are capable of reaching flashover in less than 10 minutes. Couple this with the typical response time of 20 minutes to the fire floor and you may find a fire on arrival that is already beyond the ability of hand lines to control, and beyond the limits of the structure to contain. There are other problems. Because high-rise buildings are tightly sealed to contain the conditioned air, there is serious potential for backdrafts. Add to this a potential for open shafts, unprotected vertical openings in remodeled and new structures, electrical hazards, unrelieved heat and smoke, and it should be apparent how difficult the extinguishment of a high-rise fire can become. Most exposures are staged vertically; the direction the smoke, convection, and heat conduction want to go. The size of the lines used to affect control and protect exposures is limited to those that can be deployed and connected in stairwells. Multiple avenues of extension through the floors exist. Most will resist fire to some extent, but a serious fire will eventually find some opening to the upper levels. Placing multiple lines to cover the numerous exposure points on the floor above is a slow and cumbersome task. It is very difficult to get adequate resources above an extending fire in time to stop it. Safety is a primary concern because of poor egress/escape, unforgiving fire behavior, excessive heat and smoke, panic of occupants, and fatigue of firefighters.

Providing ventilation for interior crews without extending the fire to the upper floors, trapping occupants, or terminating evacuation routes is also very difficult. High-rise floors in Oklahoma City are sometimes tightly sealed, predominantly fixed glass compartments that are designed to resist the travel of smoke and fire to the upper levels. This is beneficial for limiting fire extension, but it also serves to impound the heat and smoke on the fire floor. We cannot ventilate vertically through slabs to the floor above, we can only ventilate horizontally and mechanically. Ventilation can sometimes be accomplished by breaking out the glass from the floor above the fire floor but this should only be performed when ordered by the Incident Commander/Operations. If ventilation is not accomplished, the fire gases and heat will eventually pressurize into the core and extend to other floors.



Even when ventilation is established, it may be some time before the heat is lifted and vision improves because the heat is impounded in the slabs above and below, and will continue to generate steam from water from the hose streams. A high-rise fire is like an above ground basement fire, and the firefighters must be prepared for a lengthy, labor-intensive operation.

RESOURCE DEMAND OVERVIEWResources required to control and extinguish a high-rise fire are substantial. Experience with major high-rise fires reflects the need for 200-300 fire personnel. In addition, a major support effort and Command structure is required to maintain a continuous firefighting effort.

A High Rise Incident shall be identified as any incident that occurs or has the potential to progress to a level at or above the fifth floor above ground level.

INITIAL ATTACK OVERVIEWThe first arriving Crew Officer will establish command and operate in the Fast Attack/Investigation Mode unless the first officer is a District Officer. District Officers will operate in the Command Mode. If a working fire is confirmed, a High-rise Alarm will be called for immediately! A High-Rise Alarm is the equivalent to a 5-Alarm response. This reinforced response is needed to supply the minimum staffing to accomplish the initial job tasks at a high-rise fire.

The first arriving officer will establish the Investigation Group. This group consists of two (2) Engine crews, and one (1) Rescue Ladder crew. This group will proceed to the incident floor. The officer leading the Investigation Group will be responsible for selecting the method of ascent (elevator, stairs) to the reported fire area depending on the conditions and safety concerns. The enunciator panel must be checked for additional information prior to ascending to the fire floors.

The Investigation Group will go upstairs with only SCBA’s, portable radios, flashlights, high-rise hose packs, high-rise bag, Thermal Imager, and forcible entry tools. If access is via the elevator, an extinguisher should also be taken. Other equipment will be pooled in the lobby until a Staging Area is established.

Consideration should be taken when deciding on whether the stairs should be used or a Fire Department Controlled Elevator. If the enunciator panel indicates the fire is on or above the seventh floor, the elevators may be the best choice (See elevator section). It is imperative that the Investigation Group Leader communicates by radio the specific method of ascent, location of stairwell or elevator, destination, and the number of personnel ascending.

As soon as crews reach the fire floor, the officer will give a C.A.N (Conditions; Actions; Needs) Report and a confirmation of the actual fire floor number. Command should then establish the fire floor as a Division. (E.g. Floor 15= Fire Floor Division 15)

When a building has multiple standpipes, the Investigation Group Leader (RL Officer) must advise where water is needed and Command will confirm the availability of pumped water to that particular riser.

If a fire is confirmed, the Investigation Group will automatically evolve into to the Fire Floor Division.

All other first alarm companies will stage outside of the building until a significant fire is confirmed. A “significant fire” is defined as a fire that is beyond the capabilities of the Investigation Group’s ability to mitigate. This includes the ability to suppress the fire as well as other life safety functions like search and evacuation.



OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES FOR AUTOMATIC ALARM OR SMOKE/ODOR INVESTIGATION RESPONSE TO A HIGH-RISE STRUCTUREInvestigation Response1. When the Oklahoma City Fire Department Dispatch Center receives a call about an automatic

alarm or odor investigation in a high-rise structure, they will dispatch the following to the address:a. 2-Engine Companiesb. 1-Rescue Ladderc. 1-District Officer

2. The first arriving crew will communicate scene arrival and building information to Dispatch, as per departmental policy. This initial communication must include the following:a. The crew’s arrival on the scene, the address and what side of the building the crew is located.b. Approximate number of stories in the structure and type of occupancy (commercial or residential).c. Whether fire or smoke is showing.d. At any time fire or significant smoke is discovered, a High-Rise Alarm will be requested.

3. The Ladder Crew Officer will assume the role of Investigation Group Leader and ensure completion of the following tasks:a. That a copy of the building’s pre-fire plan is requested and determine whether building

management or tenants have made any fire notifications or evacuation announcements.b. Determine whether stairwell doors are auto unlocking and obtain any keys that can be used to

access doors.c. That a main floor/main lobby telephone number and any other information deemed important

(presence of a smoke proof tower) has been obtained from building management and/or engineering staff (if available).

d. That the location and control of the fire/communication command panel has been confirmed and the location of the alarm and/or water flow is made.

e. That all Investigation Group personnel are equipped with all PPE.f. That Ladder personnel are also equipped with appropriate equipment including, sledge

hammers, Hydra-Ram, forcible entry irons, and, if available, thermal imager. g. Recall one (1) bank of elevators and deploy personnel for fire investigation, if it is determined

that the elevators are safe to use.h. That all members of the Investigation Group are assembled before any ascent is made.i. Report the findings of the fire investigation to the Incident Commander, including the extent

and nature of fire, heat or smoke encountered by the Investigation Group, as well as the extent of the evacuation.

j. If a fire is confirmed, the Investigation Group companies will then be referred to by their assignments. (i.e. Fire-Attack, Search, Ventilation, etc.)

k. Assign Fire-Attack Stairwell and Evacuation Stairwell. Consider ventilation paths and proximity of standpipe connections when determining which stairwell is going to be used for a particular purpose.

l. After confirming a fire to the Incident Commander, the companies will advise command when a primary search of the fire area is initiated.

m. Report to IC when forcible entry and ventilation in the affected area, where necessary, is initiated.n. One firefighter will operate each elevator for departmental personnel (if used) and will be

equipped with a portable radio, forcible entry tools, SCBA, one (1) extra SCBA, flashlight, and fire extinguisher.



4. The 1st Engine Crew Officer, (with the assistance of their crew, and the 2nd Engine Crew) as part of the Investigation Group, will ensure the completion of the following tasks:a. All Engine crew personnel are equipped with complete PPE.b. The companies are equipped with a single compliment of the appropriate couplings, handles,

keys for standpipe operations, and a minimum of 200 ft. of 2 ½” hose equipped with a 1 1/8” smoothbore nozzle.

c. Reconnaissance of floor layout one (1) floor below the fire floor; locate standpipes and prepare to initiate fire attack from the appropriate stairwell, once determined by Investigation Group Leader.

d. One firefighter from this crew will be assigned to the standpipe connection, with portable radio, one (1) floor below the reported fire floor. Other crewmembers will stand by until a fire is confirmed and then begin preparing hose for fire-attack operations.

e. Will transition to Fire-Attack in the event of a working fire.f. The Fire-Attack Stairwell has been cleared of building occupants for a minimum of five (5)

floors above the fire floor before commencing fire-attack. Any occupants in the Fire-Attack stairwell should be immediately evacuated from the Fire-Attack Stairwell and directed to the Evacuation Stairwell or designated area of refuge. Crewmembers assigned to clearing the Fire-Attack Stairwell should call out for all persons to leave that stairwell and they should be told to travel across to the evacuation stairwell. If the occupants cannot leave the stairwell, as in the case of locked doors, they must be allowed to pass below the fire floor before fire-attack operations commence.

ADDITIONAL ENGINE COMPANIES (Once a significant fire is confirmed)3rd Engine1. Report directly to the Incident Commander, in the main floor/main lobby, with the appropriate tools

and equipment.a. 2 ½” lightweight High-Rise hose packb. High-Rise Bagc. Extra SCBA cylinders, if possible

2. Entire crew will ascend to the floor below the fire and be prepared to relieve the initial fire attack crews on the fire attack hose.a. Crew will ascend only with the extra SCBA cylinders to expedite their ascent and provide

relief for initial fire-attackb. The 2 ½” High-Rise hose pack and High-Rise Bag will be left in the lobbyc. Coordinate with the officers of the first and second engines so relief of personnel on the

attack line can be accomplished before their air supply is depleted. 4th Engine1. Order driver to connect to the proper FDC and prepare to pump the required pump pressure to the

system.2. Remainder of the crew will assume Lobby Control after placing all tools in a convenient location.

a. Extra SCBA cylinders from their apparatusb. 2 ½” Lightweight High-Rise hose packs from their apparatus

3. Ensure that repeated and/or modified announcements are provided to building occupants, as needed, with the status of the event and appropriate directives.

4. Ensure the activation of the stairwell door-unlocking device, if present, on the fire/communication panel. The Officer must activate this device if it has not activated automatically.

5. Ensure that the building engineer is located to control the HVAC or the officer must shut down the HVAC system.



6. Verify the operation of the fire pumps and other built-in safety equipment.

7. Ensure that a set of master keys has been obtained.

8. Secure a list of persons who are self-identified as requiring special assistance, including their ordinary location in the building and their identified points of refuge, if applicable.

9. Secure additional floor plans and identify the stairwells designated by the Investigation Group.a. The stairwell doors in the lobby should be appropriately labeled according to their use. (“Fire-

Attack Stairwell” or “Evacuation Stairwell”)10. Direct a member to operate another elevator car. That member must be equipped with portable

radio, SCBA, forcible entry tool, flashlight, fire extinguisher and one (1) extra SCBA.

11. Be cognizant that fire companies may utilize stairwell fire telephones as an alternate means of communication.

12. Shut down escalators to assist with the evacuation of building occupants.

5th Engine1. Order the driver to assist the driver of the 4th Engine by preparing a Series Pump Operation

through the 4th Engine’s Hydra-Assist Valve.

2. Remainder of the crew will then take the appropriate equipment to establish a back-up line. The back-up line shall consist of 2 ½ inch High Rise hose.

3. The back-up line will typically be connected 2 floors below the fire floor and may require an additional section of 2 ½” hose.

6th Engine1. Will ascend with the 5th Engine crew to assist in establishing the backup line.

7th Engine1. The entire crew will ascend to staging to be used as needed.

2. Will carry extra SCBA cylinders to staging. (3-floors below the fire floor.)

3. Will take any other tools requested by Operations to the Staging Area.

8th Engine1. If the building is equipped with additional FDC’s, the driver of the 8th Engine crew will hook up to

this connection and prepare for pumping operations.

2. The remainder of the crew will then carry their High-Rise hose and extra SCBA cylinders to the lobby and stand by.

9th Engine1. Will report to the location of the 8th Engine and be prepared to perform a Series Pumping

Operation through the 8th Engine’s Hydra-Assist Valve.

2. The remainder of the crew will then carry their High-Rise hose and extra SCBA cylinders to the lobby and stand by.

ADDITIONAL LADDER COMPANIES (Once a significant fire is confirmed)2nd Ladder1. Coordinate primary search of the fire floor with Fire Floor Division Officer.

2. Provide salvage covers for diking across the elevator hoist way doors to prevent water from entering the hoist way. This is done because water in the hoist way will cause elevator malfunction.

3. Initiate forcible entry and ventilation if not assigned to search.



3rd Ladder1. The 3rd Ladder will act as the Fire-Attack Stairwell Search Team (Fire-Attack S.S.T) and will report

to the U.S.E. Officer. (U.S.E. explained in a later section)

2. Ascend via proper elevator (if available) or stairwell to the top floor.a. Will be equipped with Forcible Entry Tools from their apparatus

b. Extra SCBA from their apparatus

3. Advise Operations of smoke conditions on top floor.

4. Advise Operations once they have arrived at the top floor so that Operations can advise them on possible ventilation needs (i.e. Opening top hatch, bulkhead door).

5. Initiate a top-down stairwell search of the Fire-Attack Stairwell. If additional resources are required to complete this task, notify Incident Commander/Ops.

6. Escort any building occupants out of the Fire-Attack Stairwell and relocate them to an area of refuge (i.e. Evacuation Stairwell or another safe location. If occupants are encountered in the Fire-Attack Stairwell above the fire floor, advise Operations to delay the attack until all occupants have been safely removed.

4th Ladder1. The 4th Ladder will act as the Evacuation Stairwell Search Team (Evacuation S.S.T) and will report

to the U.S.E Officer.

2. Ascend via appropriate elevator (if available) or stairwell to the top floor.a. Will be equipped with Forcible Entry Tools from their apparatusb. Extra SCBA from their apparatus

3. Initiate a top-down stairwell search of the Evacuation Stairwell. If additional resources are required to complete this task, notify Operations.

4. Check the conditions of the Evacuation Stairwell and remove building occupants to safe area, if required. The stairwell door to the fire floor should not be opened into the Evacuation Stairwell. The only exception is when it necessitates a rescue. Operations and the Incident Commander will be notified if this procedure becomes necessary and will notify the search and rescue units of this action.

OTHER COMPANIESRescue-81. Initiate primary search of the floor above the fire floor. (Will answer to Fire-Floor Division

Supervisor)

2. Will take the following rescue tools to perform search and/or RIT operations.a. RIT Bagb. Rope assisted Search Bagc. Forcible Entry and other Rescue Toolsd. Thermal Imager

3. If Command deems that Rescue-8’s delay in arrival time would hamper the operational flow of the incident, the I.C may assign another crew to search above the fire floor and use Rescue-8 as needed upon their arrival.



Haz-Mat-51. Wearing 1-hour SCBA’s, ascend to the floor below the fire and act as the initial RIT.

2. Will take other appropriate rescue tools to assist in RIT operations.a. RIT Bagb. Rope Assisted Search Bagc. Forcible Entry and other Rescue Toolsd. Thermal Imager

SPAN OF CONTROL OPTIONSAll arriving chiefs will notify command of their arrival. (Preferably face-to-face). Incident Commander can designate but is not limited to the following positions as needed:

Operations Chief Designated “Ops.”

Answers to IC

Fire-Floor Division Designated “Fire-Floor”

Answers to Operations Chief and/or Incident Commander

Upper, Search and Evacuation Designated “U.S.E”

Answers to Operations Chief

R.I.T Officer Designated “RIT”


Staging Area Officer Designated “Staging”


Logistics Chief Designated “Logistics”

Answers to IC

Lobby Control Designated “Lobby”

Answers to Logistics

Stairwell Support Officer Designated “Stairwell Support”


Base Officer Designated “Base”




Planning Chief Designated “Planning”.

Answers to IC

Situation Status/Resource Unit Designated “SitStat/ReStat”

Answers to Planning

Victim Communications Specialist Designated “VCS”

Answers to Planning

Technical Specialist Designated by Specialty

Answers to Planning



MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES – INCIDENT COMMANDERThe first arriving District Officer will assume or establish command. All functions of the Incident Management System are the responsibility of the Incident Commander unless specifically delegated.

The Incident Commander must establish a command Post in the building lobby or other designated area. A good place for the Command Post is at the building’s communications desk/fire control room, which is usually located in the building lobby. This allows access to the building communication systems, alarm annunciation equipment, and building personnel.

OPERATIONSThe second arriving chief officer will report to the command post and confer with the Incident Commander to gather information about the building, assigned companies, and specific incident information. Command will then assign this officer as the Operations Section Chief (“Ops”). The Ops Chief will ascend to two (2) floors below the fire floor and establish the Operations Post. Under the direction of the Incident Commander, the Ops Chief is responsible for all tactical operations. The following is a list of some of the Operations Chief’s responsibilities:



Fire Floor-DivisionThe Fire-Floor Division Supervisor once assigned will:

1. Confer with Operations

2. Proceed to the fire floor and take control of all operations on the fire floor and the floor above under the direction of Operations, including, but not limited to, the following:

a. Conduct size-up

b. Supervise extinguishment, check for fire extension, and monitor smoke spread

c. Establish back-up lines

d. Supervise all searches and ventilation on the fire floor, floor above, and floor below

e. Provide progress reports to Operations, in person if possible

f. Monitor the safety of all personnel operating on the fire floor and one (1) floor above the fire and assess ongoing conditions

g. Initiate salvage and overhaul operations.

Upper Search and Evacuation Officer (U.S.E)The U.S.E Officer, once assigned will:

1. Confer with Fire-Floor Division Supervisor on the status of the ongoing search and rescue operations and establish an initial Search and Rescue post two (2) floors below the fire floor, separate from the Operations Post.

2. This officer is responsible to coordinate search operations 3 two (2) floors above the fire floor and up.

3. Relocate to a floor above the fire as conditions improve.4. Determine the resources necessary to complete search and rescue operations and advise

Operations of those needs.5. Will task companies assigned to U.S.E to respond to reports of occupants in need of assistance.

6. Document assignments and verify the completion of each assignment.7. Will assign companies in the U.S.E Group to conduct a thorough and systematic search of each

floor, hallway, stairwell, elevator car, and elevator shaft, excluding the Fire Floor Division.8. Notify Operations when primary, secondary, and final searches are completed.

RIT Officer (R.I.T)The RIT Officer, once assigned will:

1. Assemble RIT team(s) and deploy them with all essential equipment including elevator rescue tools to designated areas as needed.a. RIT teams will conduct size-up

b. Report to RIT Officer

2. Gather a copy of the floor plan for the fire floor and floor above. Also gather information that provides elevator and stairwell locations.

3. Establish area of operations one (1) floor below the fire floor, if possible, and stand by.

4. Establish area of operations in appropriate areas, if multiple RITs are assigned.

5. Monitor radio communications at all times.



Staging Area Officer (Staging)Consider EMS Chief if not already tasked to EMS roles

The Staging Officer, once assigned will:

1. Proceed three (3) floors below the fire and establish the Staging Area and designate the following areas:a. Designate an area for air cylinders and equipment.

Empty air cylinders should be segregated from full cylindersb. A rehab area separate from supply area.

Consider requesting EMSA crews to evaluate and treat personnel in rehab. This will alleviate resource demand on OKCFD personnel.

Rehab may need to be established a floor below Staging, if the Staging floor is congested. c. Give consideration to creating a secondary staging area that would place companies and

equipment closer to the point of entry for attack crews, if required. This area can be on a separate floor from the primary Staging Area (3-floors below the fire floor). This secondary staging area will minimize the time delay between taking companies out

of the primary staging area, and actually putting them to work on the upper floors.

LOGISTICS

Lobby Control Officer (Lobby)Lobby Control Officer, once assigned will:1. Confer with initial crew assigned to lobby control and ascertain the progress of lobby control objectives

2. Assist with the completion of these objectives:a. Requesting additional personnel as needed to complete lobby objectives from Command or

Logistics (if assigned.)

b. Establish a method of tracking all companies entering or exiting the building.

c. Establishing a marshalling area for evacuating building occupants in a safe area away from the command post. (i.e. covered parking, sub-floors, etc.)

d. Recall all remaining elevators for fire department use and to prevent further use by occupants.

e. Determine elevator travel paths and identify blind hoistways.

f. Perform any other task that would assist with the support of Logistics as assigned.

Stairwell Support Officer (Stairwell Support)The Stairwell Support Officer, once assigned will:

1. Report to Logistics and coordinate the transport of equipment via the stairwells from the lobby to Staging.a. One member per two floors. b. One Officer per four or five members.

c. Personnel shall have on their person: Flashlight Portable radio

d. Personnel shall have available at the lowest landing they serve: Personal safety equipment (P.P.E) S.C.B.A



2. Consider relief if extended operation.

3. If an auxiliary water supply is required, the Stairwell Support Officer will coordinate and supervise this function.

4. If helicopters are used, coordinate the transport of equipment from roof to Staging.

Base Operations Officer (Base)The Base Officer, once assigned will:1. Establish Base a minimum of two hundred feet from the building.

In extraordinary circumstances, the base may be located/relocated a mile or more away from the incident.

Base should be located in an area that provides prompt ingress and/or egress, such as main arterial street or large parking lot.

Base should not be located in an area that is hampered by barriers such as rivers, expressways and/or railroad crossings.

2. At the direction of the IC, a Chief Officer may be assigned to supervise Base operations. (Consider assigning BP for initial Base Officer)

3. Companies responding on extra alarms should respond to Base.

4. All units will report to the Base Officer upon their arrival.

Vehicles parked at Base should not block the movement of any other vehicle, with special attention given to avoid blocking ambulances.

PLANNINGSituation Status Unit/Resource Status Unit (SitStat/ReStat)The SitStat/ReStat Unit, once assigned will:

1. Will confer with Lobby Control and will assume the responsibility of tracking the resources committed to the operation inside the building.

Victims Communication Specialist (VCS)The VCS Unit, once assigned will:

1. Will operate on a separate TAC channel in order to:

a. Allow Dispatch to refer calls received from occupants still inside the structure to the Communications Unit

b. Provide instructions to Dispatch of the proper course of action for the particular caller: Shelter in place Evacuation directions

2. May monitor calls to the front desk or lobby telephone from occupants still inside the structure.

a. Provide instructions of the proper course of action to the caller: Shelter in place Evacuation directions

3. Will advise Command of occupant location(s) where:

a. Occupant advises their location is posing an increasing threat to survival.

b. Special Needs occupants who are unable to self-evacuate.



Technical Specialist (Referred to by Specialty)

Examples:

Building Engineer(s) Structural Engineer HVAC Elevator Technician Code Enforcement (Water Supply Specialist)

The Technical Specialist, once assigned will:a. Assist Command/Planning with expert information and/or procedures that pertain to their field.

b. If the Technical Specialist is not an OKCFD member, they will remain in the Command/Planning area unless accompanied by an OKCFD member equipped with a radio.

TACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Fire AttackFire conditions should be sized up before the line is charged. A bedroom or kitchen fire in a high-rise residential building with the apartment door closed and a hallway that is tenable allows the engine crew to stretch the line dry to the apartment door. In those situations when the fire is more developed (especially if wind is a factor), and the apartment door is open and cannot be closed, the line should be charged in the stairwell.

A well-developed fire in a commercial high-rise with open floor plans that wrap around the center core is likely to require the fire-attack to be initiated from the safety of the stairwell enclosure. If any doubt exists, the line should be charged on the floor below in the stairwell. This provides the advancing hose team protection of the enclosed stairwell door.

The primary engine crew task is to place a hand line in service to control and extinguish the fire. This task requires careful consideration of several important factors:1. Determine the location of the fire within the building.

2. Once the location of the fire has been determined an appropriate stairwell can be selected. No hose should be connected until the location of the fire has been determined.

3. The IC must direct whatever resources are necessary to ensure the availability of an adequate number of firefighters to place the first hand line in service. It will require two (2) engine companies to place a single 2 1/2” line in service allowing continuous advancement.

4. Note the distance between the reported fire and the hose outlet on the floor below. This will also provide an idea about how much hose will be needed.

5. The standpipe hook-up will be initiated at the standpipe connection one (1) floor below the reported fire floor in the Fire-Attack Stairwell.

6. Remove the “You Are Here” signs and take them with you if they will assist you with floor layouts.

7. Residential Buildings– check the floor below for layout and location of reported fire apartment. The floor plan is usually the same from floor to floor.

8. Residential Buildings- Using an apartment on the same floor as the fire room (Preferably an apartment with exterior windows), crews should make an area of refuge for themselves in case the



fire overwhelms their efforts and the hallway also becomes untenable. The area of refuge should be a couple of apartments down from the fire apartment toward the floor exit and should be forced opened prior to making entry into the fire apartment.

9. Commercial Buildings- familiarize yourself with the design and construction of the building. This may include an interior tenant stairwell, which creates direct exposures to multiple floors.

When necessary, relief of personnel on the attack line(s) and back-up line(s) will be accomplished utilizing the following rotation system (Three Crew Relief method):1. One (1) crew on the line.

2. One (1) crew “on-deck” in the stairwell.

3. One (1) crew in “ready reserve”, one (1) floor below the “on deck” crew in the Staging Area.

If the fire cannot be contained in the area of origin, and starts lapping to the floors above, it will be necessary to start an attack at different levels. This can be accomplished by two (2) different methods:

1. Laying lines on the floors above the fire floor in advance of the fire. Or;

2. Smoke-proof towers will be utilized for the evacuation of occupants. Only in extreme cases will the smoke-proof tower stairwell be utilized as the Fire-Attack Stairwell.

Water SupplyThe Incident Commander will assign an engine company (typically the 4th Engine) to be responsible for the initial Fire Department Connection (FDC). After the water supply to the FDC has been established, the officer and firefighters shall report to the Command Post for further assignment (typically Lobby Control).

After all lines are connected and the fire department pump is placed into pump gear, the driver shall open all appropriate discharge valves and supply the FDC with hydrant water pressure only. Initially, the fire department pump will act as a backup to the building’s pump. If it is determined the building’s pump is not maintaining sufficient pressure for fire fighting operations, the fire department pump will IMMEDIATELY assume water supply responsibilities to the building’s standpipe system.

Pump discharge pressure (PDP) will be determined by using the “high-rise pump chart” (see below). However, if the building’s standpipe system is equipped with pressure reducing valves (PRVs), the FD pump must pump as if the fire were on the roof of the building. This information is imperative to ensure proper PDP and must be communicated by the fire floor division to the driver supplying the standpipe system as soon as possible.

If it is determined that the fire department pump will be needed to supply water for firefighting operations, the driver should increase the pump pressure in a slow, steady manner.

Note: It is common for the Fire Department Connection (FDC) to become damaged and/or inoperable. In this situation, it will be necessary to “backfeed” the system via the most convenient interior standpipe outlet (Preferably the first floor). In order to connect the supply line to the standpipe outlet, a 2 1/2 inch double female will be needed, along with a 2 ½ inch 60-degree elbow to prevent kinking.

Backfeeding the system through a standpipe discharge cannot be used if the standpipe system is equipped with PRVs. If the fire department needs to pump the system in a high-rise building, it will have to match the buildings pump pressure and possibly exceed it.

Explanation: there is a one-way valve where the FDC enters into the system. This valve is on the discharge side of the building pump. Because of this one-way check valve, the only way the fire department supplied water can enter the system is to exceed the building’s pump pressure. Either the building’s pump or the fire department’s pumper does the job. They do not work together.

If the building’s pump fails and the building is equipped with pressure-reducing valves (PRVs) that are not field adjustable, the fire department pumper will have to pump into the system as though the fire were



on the roof; the highest pressure. The reason for this is simple. A building’s fire pump does not have the capability of knowing which floor the fire is on; therefore, the building pump is designed to pump to the entire system. Because of the high pump pressures created on the lower floors due to the “dummy” pump, there needs to be a way to reduce the pressure on the lower floors to provide the appropriate pressure to the lower floor outlets. This is done through a PRV. The PRV is designed to compensate for the higher pump pressures on the lower floors to a manageable pressure.

The key to understanding PRVs is to remember it is adjusted to provide the usable pressure for a specific floor based on the inlet pressure of the valve. What makes this significant to Fire Department Pump Operators is; if the engine pressure of the fire department pumper were to be calculated based on the fire floor elevation alone, without considering the restriction placed by the PRV, the result would be an inadequate outlet pressure on the fire floor. Again, the valve is designed to give the proper outlet pressure based on the building’s “dummy” pump pre-determined pressure.

An exception to this rule applies to PRVs that can be adjusted or circumvented in the field. If the PRV encountered is the type that a firefighter can adjust, steps should be taken by the firefighter to allow the valve to be opened fully. If the valve is opened to it’s full range, this information should be transmitted to Command and the Apparatus Operator so the pressure calculation can be figured appropriately. The Apparatus Operator does not have to pressurize the system the same way the building’s pump does because the flow restriction has been eliminated.

The following procedures shall be accomplished when given the order to pump the system of a high-rise building:

1. A water supply shall be established from a municipal hydrant using a Hydra-assist valve.

2. The pumper or pumpers that will be supplying the FDC shall be spotted in such a position to accommodate the following objectives:a. Connect Hydra-Assist Valve to the hydrant, attach 4” supply line to the Hydra-Assist and lay

into the FDC.b. A minimum of two 2 1/2” discharge lines (3” lines are preferred if available) shall be used to

make the connection from the discharges of the pumper to the FDC. According to NFPA 1962, the maximum operating pressure for large diameter hose with Stortz couplings is 185 psi and should not be used to supply high-rise FDCs.

c. The pumper shall be spotted with the pump panel away from the fire building to protect the engineer from falling debris.

d. The discharge lines supplying the FDC shall be connected to the discharges opposite from the fire pump panel, allowing the pump operator to stay clear of the lines in the event of hose failure.

e. Try to spot the pumper at the corner of the fire building, if possible, to keep out of the way of falling glass and debris.

The clappers of the inlets of the FDC that are not being used can leak under pressure, which will cause pressure buildup in the unused inlet if the cap is left in place. This can be a problem for firefighters who are trying to remove additional caps to add more lines to the FDC. For this reason, all caps should be removed from the FDC before the initial pump operation is set up.

Command should be notified once the fire department pumpers have accomplished their set-up and when the fire department pumpers begin supplying the fire-attack lines. NOTE: If additional pressure is needed past what the system pressure can provide the following two rules shall dictate the allowable increases:1. System pressures up to 150 psi - maximum pressure of 200 psi2. System pressures over 150 psi - maximum pressure of 50 psi above system pressure.Additional pumpers should be requested to attach supply lines to any unused inlets of the FDC. This will provide reliability for supplying the system, as well as additional GPM if needed.



If the pumper is throttled up but is not flowing water into the FDC, the pump needs to circulate water to keep from overheating. To accomplish this the pump operator should open an unused discharge and it's corresponding drain valve. This flow should be enough water to keep the pump cool. Because of all the restrictions and limitations in the fire protection system of a high-rise building, the required building pump pressures can be in excess of 250 psi. These high pressures can be very hard for a single pumper to overcome even when connected to a good hydrant. It is for this reason that a Series Pump Operation through the first pumpers Hydra-Assist valve should be established.Series Pumping is actually a short relay pump operation in which the pumper receiving water from the hydrant then pumps into the intake of the second pumper. This allows the second pumper to boost the pressure even higher.

The principle of Series Pumping is based upon the fact that a centrifugal pump can further increase the total pressure of the water once it goes through the second pump. For example, if the required system pressure is 300 psi and two pumpers are involved in the Series Pump Operation, each pumper will only have to generate 150 psi net discharge pressure. 150 plus 150 equals 300 psi. This type of operation allows the pumpers to operate at a safe RPM range and also allows for an increase in flow. When two or more pumpers are pumping in series they divide the overall required pressure to supply the system between them, which means each pumper only has to do part of the work.

It is well documented that typical fire department centrifugal pumps operate at their highest GPM flow at 150 psi net discharge pressure. Any pressure above 150 psi results in a decrease of total GPM flow from the pump. As a rule of thumb, a pumper should be added into the operation for every 150 psi. Hydra-Assist operations are in essence a Series-Pump Operation. The difference in a Series-Pump Operation from a normal Hydra-Assist Operation is pressures pumped by the Engine located at the Hydra-Assist. In a Series Operation, the pumper at the Hydra-Assist will pump ½ of the system pressure plus (+) friction loss to the Engine at the FDC.

Ventilation1. Ascertain if a false ceiling is used as an air return.2. Check floors throughout the building to determine the level of the smoke concentration and if stack

effect has occurred.3. If stratification has taken place, it will be necessary to cross-ventilate, utilizing horizontal ventilation.4. If the fire is in a residential building, assume control of the apartment/area across the hall from the

fire-apartment/area, if needed, to achieve horizontal ventilation. If occupants are present in the apartment/area, move them to a safe location before initiating ventilation.

5. When vertical ventilation is necessary, ensure that natural openings such as bulkhead doors that pierce the roof are utilized.

6. Coordinate all ventilation efforts with Command or Operations, so not to put personnel or civilians in danger.

7. Do not break open windows on the fire floor.a.If a window can be opened without breaking, it can be used to test the ventilation potential but

control of the opening must be maintained.b.Possible in draft could cause massive fire acceleration if the window is broken out.



Providing ventilation on the fire floor can be extremely difficult. Every effort must be made not to break the glass with hose streams until knockdown is achieved or wind conditions are known, as the sudden addition of wind driven oxygen may accelerate the fire beyond the limits of the attack line.

If the building is equipped with an exhaust system, it may be employed to some advantage, but this tactic should only be used in the presence of the building engineer or other qualified person who knows the capabilities of the system.

Windows may be broken from above or below in a coordinated manner after wind direction and intensity is verified or after fire control. Crews on the upper, or lower floors, who are not in the smoke and heat, can determine the location of the lee side of any winds by removing a small section of glass. Ventilating on the lee side reduces the potential for gusts pushing flame onto the attack crews. However, winds acting upon a high-rise are unpredictable and frequently change direction and speed. Also, crews must use extreme caution to protect against falling when windows are being removed. Because the products of combustion create an IDLH atmosphere, ventilation should begin as soon as possible. Proper ventilation will remove the toxins from the building and should reduce heat in the affected area(s). Heat conditions in high-rise fires may exceed the capabilities of firefighter’s PPE. When excessive heat conditions exist, crews may have no choice but to withdrawal from the area until the temperatures fall to a level that can be withstood. When crews have to withdraw, defensive operations should begin until the temperatures are within tolerable limits. 1. Do not bring PPV blowers to the fire floor initially. Due to the lack of exit openings, PPV could

cause the fire to massively accelerate.2. Use PPV at the base of the stairwells as this will have minimal effect on fire behavior, and will help

keep the stairs clear of smoke.3. Consider electric fans.4. Top priority should be given to protecting elevator shafts from water cascading, thereby rendering

elevators useless. Diking around the elevator shafts, on floors where hose lines are deployed, is essential to the continued operation of elevator cars.

5. If access above the fire floor is required, utilize an elevator in the blind shaft, if present, to ascend above the fire floor. If a fire department member does not already man this elevator, then a member must be assigned to remain in the elevator.

6. Building personnel should be consulted, if possible, for utilization of equipment to assist in performing salvage work: i.e. hand-trucks, pallet-jacks, forklifts, etc, for relocating or removing valuable contents.

SearchSearch Priorities:1. Immediate area around fire.2. Then remainder of fire floor.3. Then the floor above.4. Then the floor below.5. Then the top floor.6. Then remaining floors above if warranted.7. Attempts should be made to direct occupants to evacuation stairwell if the evacuation stairwell is

still free of smoke and other contaminates.



8. Occupants in the attack stairwell must be allowed to pass prior to fire attack or redirected to a safe location (i.e. the evacuation stairwell if it is still passable).

9. Evacuees should be supervised closely.Keeping Track of What Floors Have Been Searched:1. Each floor that is evacuated must be cleared of all occupants

2. Indicate which floors have been searched using spray paint, chalk, lumber crayon, etc.

3. These markings should be placed at common entry point to the floor; i.e. stairwell door, elevator lobbies. a. Single slash with crew I.D. while floor is being searchedb. “X” when completedc. Place “X” in front of elevator on opposing wall, and on the stairwell door

Indicates Search in Progress by Engine 7

Indicates Engine 7 was unable to complete the search

Indicates Engine 7 has completed their search

EvacuationThe decision as to how much of the building to evacuate must be weighed against the conditions that are being presented. Several issues must be considered before the order to evacuate the entire building or portions of the building is given.

Is there at least one stairwell clear of smoke and other contaminants?If all evacuation stairwells are contaminated, the option of sheltering in place should be considered, especially if the location of the occupants is currently tenable.If shelter in place is opted, occupants should be advised to place damp towels or another suitable option under the door(s) that lead into the hallway to further prevent smoke from entering their apartment/office.This information can be passed to the occupants through the building’s P.A. system or given to occupants who call 911 inquiring about what they should do.1. Dispatchers should notify Command/VCS of the location of any person who calls 911 from inside

the building.2. How far will the occupants have to travel to escape the building?

a. The farther the occupants have to travel before they get below the fire floor should be considered due to the dynamic nature of the incident.

b. Elderly or Special Needs occupants may succumb to fatigue or other medical issues if required to travel long distances.

Have fire-attack operations begun?Fire-attack could dramatically change the building’s environment.If fire-attack has commenced, evaluate if conditions change in the evacuation stairwell before deciding whether to further evacuate the building.If evacuation must take place, ensure evacuation stairwell has electric Positive Pressure Fans placed so that the stairway can remain clear even as additional stairwell doors are opened.



Are all of the doors in the stairwell unlocked?If conditions change the occupants may be overcome from the smoke before they find an unlocked door.

STAGING AREA OPERATIONS(3 floors below the fire floor)1. Request assistance as needed to operate staging area needs.

2. Control the movement of equipment from the members going to the fire floor.

3. Document the companies committed to the fire area, and the length of time committed.

4. Monitor the amount of equipment on hand and notify the Logistics or Operations concerning available or needed resources when requested or when necessary.

5. Assign one (1) member to direct personnel getting off elevators or coming out of Stairwells to the Staging Area.

6. Coordinate the assembly of equipment and establish a separate area for full air bottles and a separate area for empty air bottles.

7. Monitor the amount of equipment on hand and notify Staging Area Chief of available resources on hand.

8. Provide medical care to any civilians/firefighters as required.

9. Locate an area that may be utilized as the Rehabilitation Area (possibly one [1] floor below the Staging Area) a. Establish a Rehab Area, in a non-hazardous environmentb. Designate personnel to be responsible for the Rehab Area c. Document personnel as they enter and leave the Rehab Aread. Recognize the IC may dispatch EMS personnel and equipment to the Rehab Area at the IC’s

discretion or at the request of the Rehab Officer. Oxygen should be available for civilians and fire personnel.

ELEVATOR OPERATIONSTo expedite the time of arrival to the fire floor and to avoid occupants who are descending the stairs, crews should utilize elevators whenever it is safe and possible. Erratic elevator operation, however, has been the cause of numerous firefighter deaths, so the following conditions must be met before use:

Only elevators having A.N.S.I. phase II “fire feature” may be used for fire department operations (A.N.S.I. Phase I provides for automatic recall of elevators when designated alarms are activated. A.N.S.I. Phase II provides for key activation and use of the recalled elevator cars.)

The shaft must be clear of smoke.

Only members trained in the operation, use, and methods of escape from elevators will operate the cars.

Only one crew (with the operator) and equipment at a time will use the car to avoid overload, and to permit room for emergency maneuvers in the car. (Rule of thumb 6 personnel)

Crew and operator must be fully dressed with S.C.B.A. face pieces in position for quick donning before ascent.



A radio, forcible entry tools, flashlight, stepladder (sometimes located in the supply closet on every floor), water or dry-chemical extinguisher, and spare bottle should remain in the car with the operator.

Elevators that travel through a blind shaft that are remote from the fire should be considered for operations above the fire floor.

A blind elevator shaft is defined as the portion of a shaft where normal landing entrances are not provided.

If an elevator whose shaft terminates below the fire floor is present, use that car for fire floor operations. If not, utilize an elevator that serves all floors, that is remote from the fire area, such as a freight elevator.

Elevators with door opening restrictors should not be used unless forcible entry tools are left in the car. At present, Oklahoma City codes do not provide for side exiting and top hatches are bolted shut.

Avoid using the radio in or near the elevator control room. It may disrupt elevator controls.

Know where the stairwells are prior to entering the elevator.

Crews beginning the ascent should attempt to stop the car at the first typical tower floor, but not over five floors, to verify that the 'fire feature' is working. While stopped at that floor note the relationship of the elevator to the closest exit stairs in the event the car becomes erratic and the door opens into flames on the fire floor. If the Lobby or Fire Control Room position indicator show cars have not returned to the Lobby, it may be possible to combine the floor check with a search for the stalled cars on the way up. If the car performs properly, continue the ascent to two floors below the indicated fire floor, stopping every 5-7 floors to check the elevator operation. Check the shaft for smoke every time you open the door.

Normal elevator operations, fire feature, and the interlock safeties are all electronic programs and can become erratic or inoperative by excessive heat and smoke. Personnel, who are not trained and equipped to self-extricate from the car under emergency situations, should not use an elevator in a fire situation.

When the elevator car Phase II is activated, check to see that the fire hat emblem is not blinking. If a blinking fire hat is observed it means that the FAID (Fire Alarm Initiating Device) in the elevator machine room has been activated by heat or smoke. Firefighters should then exit the car and find another means to ascend. It should be noted that not all elevator cars provide this warning.

If smoke under pressure is seen, or the accumulation of smoke is so great that the top of the shaft cannot be visualized, exit the car at that point, move to the appropriate stairwell, and climb the remaining floors. If the 'fire feature' is still operational, the operator should exit and allow the car to be recalled to lobby on 'bypass'. If the shaft is still clear, continue the ascent. Should the car, at any time, become erratic and unresponsive to operator commands activate the Emergency Stop (The rebound from this sudden stop might place the car in an overload condition if it is loaded with two crews and equipment). If the Emergency Stop fails, pry open the car door and trip the interlock. If that fails, put on your face pieces, get low in the car, and if the door opens onto the fire floor, move to the stairwell under whatever protection you can gain from the extinguisher.

The elevators should not be used for occupant evacuation until fire control is achieved. The occupants do not have self-contained breathing apparatus or turnouts to shield themselves from smoke in the shaft way, nor are they prepared to climb down the shaft, or make the drop to a misaligned floor from a stalled car.



R.I.T CONSIDERATIONSRIT Officer should be a Chief Officer, as District Officers arrive for assignment

Additional resources WILL be necessary for an effective high-rise RIT.

Consider rotating rehabbed Attack crews to RIT then rotating them to “on deck” for relief of Back-up and Attack crews.

1. Rehabbed Attack crews will have valuable information from their experience on the fire floor about;a. Location where attack crews may be working

b. Previous conditions of the fire floor

c. Floor plan / layout of fire floor

2. Rehabbed crews can be expected to have diminished energy for RIT RESCUE but they can be very valuable as RIT RECON to efficiently direct the primary RIT to the FF(s) in trouble because they have prior knowledge of the fire floor layout and locations where crews have been operating. a.RIT Recon is defined as the process of predicting where a firefighter(s) may be located, reaching

them, evaluating the situation, and determining what will be necessary for rescue/removal of the victim.

b.The benefit of the RIT Recon is to allow the primary RIT the ability to focus their efforts on firefighter extrication. Recon and location of the downed (MAYDAY) firefighters has shown to expend a single RIT’s ability to perform extrication procedures.

The Incident Commander may consider requesting additional alarm(s) to provide personnel for additional RITs to support the incident size and complexity.

The Incident Commander can expect 20% of on-scene personnel to succumb to fatigue, injury, or in many cases a serious medical problem before, during or after their first assignment.

HIGH-RISE GLOSSARY1st Engine, 2nd Engine, 3rd Engine, etc…: Are not necessarily the order of arrival but, instead, are the order in which the Incident Commander should consider assigning them.

Base: Similar to a tradition “Level II” staging area away from the incident zone. Minimum 200’ from fire building.FDC: Fire Department Connection. The EXTERIOR input connection that supplies the internal sprinkler / standpipe system.High-Rise Alarm: Equivalent to a 5th alarm.

“MAYDAY” FIREFIGHTERS: A crew or member of a crew who has reported a MAYDAY for; disorientation (lost), missing crew member(s), entanglement, trapped, downed, or any other need for rescue assistance.On Deck Crew: A crew that is assigned to Fire-Attack and is located in a refuge area of the stairwell. They are the most immediately available crew to be used for the relief of the crew that is currently operating the fire-attack or back-up line(s).

PRV: Pressure Reducing Valve. An appliance designed to regulate pressure in standpipe systems on each floor level to an equal pressure from the lowest connection to the highest floor served. The pressures are set during installation and construction of the building or standpipe system and are not included in the annual system inspection / test.

Ready Reserve: Rehabbed crew placed 1 (one) floor below the “ON DECK” crew as the 3rd rotation in the Three Crew Relief method for Attack and Back-up crews.



Resources Unit (ResStat): Functional unit within the Planning Section responsible for recording the status of resources committed to the incident. This unit also evaluates resources currently committed to the incident, the effects additional responding resources will have on the incident, and anticipated resource needs.

RIT Recon: The process of predicting where “MAYDAY” firefighter(s) may be located, reaching them, evaluating the situation, and determining what will be necessary for rescue/removal of the victim.

RIT Rescue: The rapid rescue/removal of a firefighter who has become a victim.Significant Fire: A fire that is beyond the capabilities of the Investigation Group’s ability to mitigate that necessitates requesting a High-Rise Alarm response. Standpipe Connection: INTERIOR 2 1/2” hose connection where attack companies connect an attack line.Staging Area: 3 floors below Fire Floor.

U.S.E.: Upper Search and Evacuation Group. Coordinate search operations 2-floors above the fire floor and up. Initial Search and Rescue post two (2) floors below the fire floor, in a separate area from the Operations Post.

Victims Communication Specialist (VCS): A functional unit assigned to the Planning Section that receives reports from dispatch about victim locations within the building. This unit also receives calls at the Lobby telephone from victims / occupants as to their location and will provide instructions to the victims / occupants and relays information to IC about their locations and needs, when they are in danger. Also provides Dispatch with appropriate questions for 911 callers and advice to be given to callers.

EXAMPLES

Questions Location of caller

Smoke conditions in the caller’s location

Physical capabilities or special needs of caller to determine ability to self-evacuate or need for assistance.

Advice Shelter in place

Self-evacuation

Location of and directions to Evacuation Stairwell

Wait for assistance

ADDENDUM



O/SUP-223 ELEVATORS UPDATED 6/16/2016

Elevators travel more miles annually than any other mode of public transportation, and without the elevator, High Rise buildings would probably never have become a reality. When fires occur in these buildings, victims are very frequently found in and around the elevator.

There are many different makes and models of elevators, but only two types in service: the ELECTRIC, or TRACTION, and the MECHANICAL, or HYDRAULIC. The one feature common to both types is that loss of electrical power will stall either, since both are powered by electric motors.

The electric elevator is found in use in buildings of all heights and is used exclusively above 6 or 7 floors. Other distinguishing features of these elevators are (1) the hoistway cables and (2) the machine room, which is usually located near the roof.

The hydraulic elevator is raised and lowered in a manner similar to that of a hydraulic jack. An electric motor is used to power it. They are found in buildings of not over 6 or 7 floors in height, do not have hoistway cables, and the machine room is usually found in or near the basement. Another distinguishing feature is that if this elevator stalls, it can be lowered by bypassing the hydraulic fluid in the same manner as would be done with an ordinary hydraulic jack. A lowering valve is usually located in the machine room.

When an electric elevator stalls, the machine brake is automatically applied mechanically. A hydraulic elevator does not have a brake. Should it stall, the pump is stopped mechanically and the car will not move. This eliminates the danger of elevators falling, barring disasters.

Common causes of stalling are electrical power failure, such as a fuse in the machine room, or poor electrical contact on the door closing devices. A major cause of stalling would be a loss of electric power to the building.

Large elevators such as hospital cars weigh approximately 5000 pounds and smaller cars about 3500 pounds.

When supporting the car, never pry up or lift it. This could release the safeties and let the car fall.

Never enter an elevator in an emergency without forcible entry tools, and as you are ascending stop and start the elevator to make certain that it is working properly. The elevator, if used, should be taken to two floors below the indicated fire floor. The stairway must be used from here up.

ELEVATOR EMERGENCIESIt is the recommendation of THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERS in their publication GUIDE FOR EMERGENCY EVACUATION OF PASSENGERS FROM ELEVATORS that, “any evacuation of passengers from elevator cars be performed under the direct supervision of elevator personnel”. However under some emergency conditions, the evacuation must be performed by emergency response personnel.

A suggested list of some tools and equipment needed to accomplish a safe evacuation includes:

short extension ladder collapsible or folding ladder two-way radios hoistway door unlocking devices (elevator door interlock release keys) safety belts lifelines forcible entry tools (ax, claw & kelly) flashlights



UPON ARRIVAL

Assessment of ConditionsThe preferred and safest method for evacuating passengers is to move the elevator car to a landing level. The procedures outlined herein do not require the movement of the elevator car by any means other than normal or Phase 1 operation. If any other method is used it should be done only under the direct supervision of experienced elevator personnel.

Communicate with the passengers inform them that:1. They are safe.

2. Steps are being taken to evacuate them from the elevator car.3. They should stand clear of doors since they may be opened.

4. They should refrain from smoking.You should also try to obtain the following information to aid in making a decision on what actions should be taken.1. The number of persons in the car

2. Whether any of the occupants of the elevator car are ill or injured.3. Whether the lights are on in the elevator car.

4. The location of the elevator car in the hoistway, if known.

The occupants of the elevator car should continually be kept informed of progress being made and of their safety.

The mainline disconnect switch must be in the “ON” position (closed) and, if the car is so equipped the emergency stop switch must be in the “RUN” position, not the “STOP” position.

CAUTION: NEWER ELEVATORS MAY NOT BE EQUIPPED WITH AN IN-CAR EMERGENCY STOP SWITCH, SO UTILIZING THE MAINLINE DISCONNECT IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT.

If the elevator is equipped with firefighters' service operation, try activation of Phase 1 lobby key switch to recall the elevator car to the main floor. The key switch in the main lobby has an “on” position, an “off” position, and a “bypass” position. The “on” position activates the return of elevators, and the “bypass” position is used to shunt out the sensing device circuit when heat or smoke initiated the return of the elevators. There will be an identical three position key switch on or beside the operation panel inside each elevator that has a travel distance of 70 feet or more. This switch is operable only after the main lobby switch has been keyed to the “on” position or the return of elevators has occurred because of a heat or smoke sensing device.

The same key operates both the elevator car switch and the main lobby switches. The key can be removed from the main lobby switch with the switch in the “on” position and then used to operate the car switch.

Should the elevator be stalled due to a power loss to the building, and the building has a emergency power source, it may be possible to run the elevators by turning the emergency recall switch in the main lobby to the “ON” position. Use the manual standby power selection switch, if provided, to bring the elevator cars to the main floor, one at a time. If this does not accomplish the task, determine the position of the elevator car and continue with the appropriate procedure.Car at or near landing1. Car within three (3) feet of landing

2. Car more than three (3) feet from landing



Car at or Near LandingIf an elevator car is located at or near a landing, it is possible that the hoistway door is unlocked, and the hoistway and car doors can be opened by hand. If this is the case use the following steps:1. Set the mainline disconnect switch for the stalled elevator in the “OFF” position.

2. Open the doors by hand.3. Enter the elevator car and set the emergency stop switch, if the car is so equipped, in the “STOP”

position.

Car within three (3) feet of LandingIf the hoistway doors are not unlocked and the elevator car platform is within 3 feet of the landing level, use the following steps:1. Opening doors from landing or from inside elevator car.

a. Set the mainline disconnect switch for the stalled elevator in the “OFF” position.

b. Unlock the hoistway door at the floor nearest to the stalled elevator car by means of the hoistway door unlocking device (elevator door interlock release key), if provided, and open the hoistway and car doors by hand.

If hoistway door unlocking devices are not provided, it may be possible on some installations for a passenger to manually open the car and hoistway doors from within the elevator car. If this is not possible, a member of the rescue team should enter the elevator and place the emergency stop switch, in the “STOP” position if the car is equipped with one. A LADDER CAN BE PLACED ACROSS THE OPEN BETWEEN THE ELEVATOR PLATFORM AND THE BUILDING FLOOR.

2. Opening Doors from Adjacent Elevator Car: When an elevator door interlock release key is not provided, or the doors cannot be opened from within the elevator car by the passengers, and an adjacent car is operable, use the steps listed below.a. Take an adjacent elevator car to the floor closest to the stalled car and open its doors.

b. Set the mainline disconnect switches for both elevators to the “OFF” position. If the elevator being used for the rescue is equipped with an emergency stop switch, place it in the “STOP” position.

c. By extending a pike pole through the opening between the car and hoistway doors of the rescue elevator car, it may be possible to engage the interlock roller of the stalled elevator car so that its doors can be opened by hand. When performing this procedure, be careful not to extend the pole into the hoistway of any elevator that is still in service.

d. A firefighter should enter the stalled elevator and set the emergency stop switch, in the “STOP” position. (if the car is equipped with an emergency stop switch). If this method does not work use forcible entry method.

3. Opening Doors With Forcible Entry Tools. When the hoistway doors cannot be unlocked by a key or other means, and an adjacent elevator in the same hoistway is not available, the hoistway door at the floor nearest to the stalled elevator car can be forcibly opened.a. Set the mainline disconnect switch for the stalled elevator in the “OFF” position.b. Place blade of tool (ax, or claw) at the top, between center closing doors, and twist. If door

closes to jamb (single door), use a pry bar at top where door and jamb meet, this will minimize damage to the doors and to allow for quicker return to normal service.

NEVER PRY ON BOTTOM EDGE OF HOISTWAY DOOR. THIS WILL WEDGE THE DOORS AND PREVENT THEM FROM OPENING.

c. A firefighter should enter the elevator car and set the emergency stop switch, to the “STOP” position. ( if the car is equipped with a emergency stop switch)



Car more than three (3) feet from LandingIf the elevator is located more than three (3) feet above or below the landing, it is not recommended to remove the passengers through the elevator door opening as the excessive distance between the car floor and landing level creates a danger to the passenger of falling into the hoistway. The recommended procedures for removing the passengers under these conditions are as follows.

REMOVAL THROUGH TOP EMERGENCY EXITCAUTION: DO NOT USE THE TOP EMERGENCY EXIT ON AN ELEVATOR IN AN UNENCLOSED HOISTWAY. NEW ELEVATORS IN UNENCLOSED HOISTWAYS WILL NOT HAVE TOP EMERGENCY EXITS. IF EXIT THROUGH THE ELEVATOR ENTRANCE IS NOT POSSIBLE, WAIT FOR ELEVATOR PERSONNEL TO ARRIVE, AND HAVE THEM MOVE THE ELEVATOR CAR TO A LANDING LEVEL.1. The mainline disconnect switches in the machine room for all the elevators should be set in the

“OFF” position. (if the stalled elevator is in a multiple hoistway)2. The door at the nearest landing should be opened, or an emergency access door, where provided,

above the stalled elevator car top. This can be accomplished by use of the hoistway door key, the emergency-door key, or by forcing open the hoistway doors.

3. A ladder of sufficient length to extend at least three (3) feet above the landing floor, should be lowered to the elevator car top and secured in position.

4. A firefighter, wearing a safety belt and tied off to a lifeline, should descend to the top of the stalled car. A second ladder should be lowered through the top emergency exit and positioned between the elevator car floor and car top. This second ladder should be of sufficient length to extend at least three (3) feet above the car top.

5. A second firefighter, also wearing a safety belt and tied off to a lifeline, should then descend to the car top, with additional safety belts for use in rescuing passengers.

6. One firefighter should enter the elevator through the top exit. The other firefighter should remain on the top of the stalled elevator. A third firefighter should be at the landing used to gain access to the hoistway.

7. The emergency stop switch in the stalled elevator should be set in the “STOP” position. (if the car is equipped with a emergency stop switch).

8. The passengers should then be assisted from within the elevator to the car top, then to the landing above with the use of safety belts and lifelines.

REMOVAL USING SIDE EMERGENCY EXIT When an adjacent elevator with a matching side emergency exit is available, use the following method to perform rescue:

CAUTION: DUE TO THE DIFFICULTY IN LINING UP THE ADJACENT OPENINGS, THIS PROCEDURE SHOULD ONLY BE USED IF THERE ARE EXPERIENCED ELEVATOR PERSONNEL PRESENT OR THE RESCUE TEAM HAS BEEN THOROUGHLY TRAINED IN THIS PROCEDURE.

1. Move the rescue car using the independent service, firefighters' service, or inspection mode to line up the floors of the rescue car and the stalled car.

2. The mainline disconnect switches in the machine room for the stalled elevator and the rescue elevator should be set in the “OFF” position.

3. A firefighter wearing a safety belt and a lifeline should enter the stalled elevator car through the side emergency exit.

4. The emergency stop switch in both elevator cars should be set in the “STOP” position. (if they are equipped with emergency stop switches)



5. If available, an evacuation bridge should be used. If one is not available, use a six (6) foot plank to lay across the opening. The span should not exceed 30 inches.

6. Safety belts and lifelines must be used to protect the passengers, whether or not an evacuation bridge is used.

7. Passengers should be wearing a safety belt and be tied off to a lifeline until they are will well inside the rescue car.

RESTORATION OF ELEVATOR SERVICEIt is recommended by The American Society of Mechanical Engineers in their publication, “A Guide for Emergency Evacuation of Passengers from Elevators” that no attempt to restore power to the stalled elevator should be made by firefighters. After the rescue has been completed, have a firefighter stand by to inform the elevator personnel what switches were pulled and which doors were forced open.

THE MANUAL OPERATION OF ELEVATORS UNDER FIRE CONDITIONSThe decision to use elevators in high rise incidents depends entirely on the availability of some type of manual control for at least one elevator in the building involved.

There are two types of manual controls now in use in Oklahoma City; independent service and fire service.

Independent service consists of a toggle switch located inside the locked portion of the operating panel of the elevator. When this switch is activated, the hall call buttons are by-passed and the elevator must be operated from inside the car. The door functions and other car features operate as usual. A FIRE DEPARTMENT OPERATOR IS REQUIRED AT ALL TIMES WHEN AN ELEVATOR IS IN THE INDEPENDENT SERVICE MODE.

Fire Service on an elevator exists in two phases. Phase one is a feature which, when activated, will bring all elevators to the lobby floor, open the doors, and hold the elevators there with the doors open. This feature will be found on all elevators having a travel of twenty-five feet or more, and serving three or more landings, and installed since May, 1976. This feature is activated by a key inserted in a switch located beside the elevator approximately six feet from the floor. This switch must be turned to the on position to activate the system. If the elevator was installed later than 1976, and the building is over seventy feet tall, a second phase, the Firemen's Emergency Return is a required feature. This is an in-car feature that operates with the same key that operates the phase one feature. The key must be removed from the phase one switch while in the on position and inserted in the phase two switch inside the car.

When the phase two, or emergency return, feature is activated, it provides the greatest measure of manual control of an elevator that is available at this time AN ELEVATOR ON EMERGENCY SERVICE REQUIRES A FIRE DEPARTMENT OPERATOR AT ALL TIMES. When the car is on emergency service, all controls are manually operated; the door close button must be depressed to close the door, the button for the desired floor must be pushed, and on arrival, the door open button must be depressed, and held until the door is fully open. If the door open button is released before the door is fully opened the door will reverse itself and close. The Fireman's Emergency Return feature cannot be disconnected or turned off at any location other than at the lobby level. The key is not removable in the on position.

NOTE: NO KEYS OF ANY TYPE ARE FURNISHED TO BE CARRIED ON FIRE DEPARTMENT APPARATUS AT THIS TIME. ANY KEYS NEEDED SHALL BE OBTAINED FROM BUILDING PERSONNEL AT THE TIME THEY ARE NEEDED.

NOTE: A GOOD RULE OF THUMB IS TO LIMIT PERSONNEL TO A MAXIMUM OF SIX FIREFIGHTERS AND GEAR PER LOAD ON ELEVATORS DURING FIRE SITUATIONS.

NOTE: ELEVATORS THAT HAVE NO MANUAL SERVICE FEATURES ARE NOT TO BE USED DURING A FIRE SITUATION, REGARDLESS OF THE HEIGHT OF THE BUILDING.

NOTE: IT IS ALSO RECOMMENDED THAT AN INITIAL FORCE OF THREE MEN BE USED TO DETERMINE AVAILABILITY AND CONTROL OF ELEVATORS.



ELEVATOR SAFETY RULESThere are seven basic rules of elevator safety. These rules are to be observed at all times. These rules are:1. Never take an elevator to the fire floor.2. Never pass the fire floor - unless special precautions are observed

3. Never return in an up elevator except on manual service.4. Never use elevators in multiple hoistways during major fires, unless all cars are under fire

department control.5. Always activate the Emergency Stop switch before escaping a stalled elevator.

6. Always carry forcible entry tools when using elevators.7. Never overcrowd elevators.

ELEVATOR SIZE-UPUpon receipt of the alarm we immediately begin sizing up the emergency to which we are responding. It is very important for each man to make a size-up. A suggested list, consisting of a systematic rundown while enroute to the emergency, follows:1. How many people are in the building at this hour?2. Which elevator will be available to us after hours?

3. How many elevators are there and at which floor do they terminate?4. How many stairways are there and are the stairway doors locked?

5. Are the elevators electric or hydraulic?6. Are the hoistway door closures equipped with electric eyes?

Concerning #6: If the answer is “yes” and the elevator doors are opened in moderate smoke, the door may not close, thus rendering the car inoperative. The presence of photocells or electric eyes can be detected by observing the light beams at 30” and 42” above the floor. They are installed on the elevator door. Locate by looking in opening between elevator door and hoistway door, when in open position.

7. What type elevator call buttons are used in the building?

Sufficient heat to melt these buttons (450 - 500 degrees) will affect any elevator, but some might take only a small amount of heat to operate the car. If this occurs, the car will be called to the floor where the excessive heat condition exists.Both the photocells/electric eyes and the electronic operated call buttons are canceled when the elevator is placed under manual control.

Upon Arrival - No Fire VisibleLOCATE THE FIRE. Excluding rescue, this is the most important and difficult task. Prior knowledge of the building is absolutely essential to effective operations.1. Check the enunciator panel.2. Consult the building personnel.3. Check the elevator lobby panel. If one or more cars are stalled, there may be victims in them or

nearby, and the fire may be on that floor, also.4. Take manual control of the elevator and assign a firefighter to operate it. If after business hours, an

elevator should be on the ground floor ready for your use. If the car is equipped with a communication system, assign a firefighter to this system. The telephone will be located near the switchboard or in the elevator lobby panel. While you are at it, obtain all of the keys that the night watchman has, including the stairway door keys, and have him accompany you as you check out the emergency.



5. If the elevator is used for the initial fire search, the 5 floor method, which is to stop the elevator 5 floors below the suspected fire floor, should be used to approach the suspected fire floor. It is possible the basement will be the only floor sprinkled.

Upon Arrival - Fire Visible1. Bring all elevators to the ground floor and secure them by activation the emergency stop switch.

The occupants must be kept off the elevators until it is determined whether or not they are reliable or until the fire is extinguished. This will leave in-service only the car in use by the fire department.

2. Take whatever actions concerning the air-conditioning system that your prior knowledge would indicate being effective. Again, knowledge gained in pre-fire plan surveys is essential.

3. Evacuate (if necessary) by stairway.

4. Proceed with our standard operating procedures for fires in high rise buildings.

FIRE IN AN ELEVATOR MACHINE ROOMIf a fire should develop in an elevator machine room, precede as follows:

1. Pull all mainline disconnect switches. They should be near the entrance door to the machine room.

2. Use class C fire extinguisher. Do Not use water

3. Remove passengers from stalled elevators, following procedures previously outlined.

FIRE IN AN ELEVATOR HOISTWAYThis will probably be trash in the pit.1. Bring all elevators in this hoistway to the ground floor and evacuate.2. If the fire is in the elevator pit or under the car, the cars in this hoistway should all be moved to the

next to the lowest landing and secured. Pull the mainline disconnects. Enter the hoistway through doors, using keys or forcible entry, at the lowest landing and extinguish the fire. If the fire is in the pit, it may be necessary to set a ladder from the first floor landing. Remove the smoke by venting the hoistway at the roof, if practical.

REMEMBER: NEVER ENTER A HOISTWAY ABOVE OR BELOW THE ELEVATOR WITHOUT PULLING THE MAINLINE DISCONNECTS AND HAVING A FIREFIGHTER STAND BY.

IN THE EVENT OF AN EARTHQUAKE1. If a warning is given, bring all elevators to the ground floor immediately and secure them.

2. If no warning is given, stop all elevators and secure them by pulling the mainline disconnects. If elevators are equipped with communication systems, notify the passengers to stop the cars and evacuate.

3. After the emergency is over, do not move the elevators until a mechanic has thoroughly checked the system.

FIREFIGHTER TRAPPED IN STALLED ELEVATOR1. If in a blind hoistway, the wall must be breached.

a.Activate the emergency stop switch and open elevator doors.

b.Breach the wall.

2. If in local service hoistway, by priority:a.Activate the emergency stop switch, open the elevator door and observe the hoistway door lock.

Disengage the lock if it can be reached, and evacuate.

b.Activate the emergency stop switch, open the top hatch, (if it is not locked). If locked, use forcible entry tools to pry it open. Once open, climb to the top of the car. The hoistway door lock should then be near enough to reach. Disengage and evacuate.



ESCALATORSEscalators, ramps, manlifts, etc., are not to be considered as exits because generally, they do not travel over 1-3 floors and are seldom enclosed. The escalator, if it is enclosed, may qualify as an exit. They are manufactured by the elevator companies to move large groups of people short distances, quickly and safely, such as in department stores, etc. The escalator is electrically powered.

In the event you are called to an escalator incident, it will probably involve a foot caught where the steps terminate at the floor, or a long coat caught between the step edge and the skirt. The safety switch will in all probability have activated, stopping the escalator's movement. The following procedures are suggested:

1. Activate the emergency stop switch

2. Assign a fire fighter to remove the inspection plate located in the floor at the top landing, and pull the mainline disconnects. Four screws hold the plate in place with conventional heads.

3. If victim is caught between step edge and skirt, use pry bar or K-12 saw to release him.

4. If victim is caught where the steps terminate, remove the combs.

NOTE: AN EMERGENCY (RED) STOP BUTTON AND A KEYED UP-AND-DOWN SWITCH ARE LOCATED AT THE BOTTOM AND TOP OF EACH ESCALATOR. A KEY MUST BE USED TO RESTART THE ESCALATOR. THIS IS GENERALLY THE SAME KEY USED TO CHANGE THE MANUAL CONTROL OF THE ELEVATORS.

ELEVATOR GLOSSARY

Auxiliary Power: Some units are equipped with standby power in the event of a power failure. The time lapse between the power failure and operation of auxiliary power may vary from a few seconds to several minutes.

Bank: A group or series of cars in a common hoistway.

Blind Shaft: Express hoistways; shafts without landing openings.

Brakes: Mechanical devices used to stop the car during normal operation; many types operate much like auto brakes.

Burn-Out: A condition caused by the wedging of automatic elevator doors. The door motors “burn-out” and the unit becomes totally inoperative.

Cables: Hoisting cables or “ropes”, sometimes called “strings”.

Car: A box or cage operating in a hoistway actually used for the carrying of passengers and/or freight.

Car Buffer: Either oil cylinder(s) or a spring cushion(s) located in the pit to prevent car overtravel.

Car Doors: Actual doors of the car, not to be confused with hoistway doors.

Car Panel: Individual, in-car control panel. Normally the open portion is for passenger use and the locked portion for emergency mechanic operation.

Continuous Pressure Switch: A switch or button that requires constant finger pressure in order to function. If used on a door, pressure must be maintained until the door completely closes.

Counterweight: Balancing weight used on cable powered cars to give balanced operation at all levels. One car is not permitted to balance another. Normally, the counterweight equals the weight of the car plus 40% of the car's carrying capacity. Counterweights permit the use of smaller driving machinery.

Counterweight Buffer: Either oil cylinder or spring cushion used to prevent counterweight overtravels.

Crosshead: The main bar across the top of the car, similar to a main beam.



Door-Locking Device (Automatic): Electrically operated cam or roller used to lock the hoistway doors.

Door Operator: Electric motor and arm designed to open and close the car doors.

Drum-Type Elevator: A drum in the motor room has the hoisting cable wound about it. because of size limitations of the drum, lift seldom exceeds 150 feet. Found in older installations.

Electric Traction Elevator: Gearless machines have slow speed motors on a shaft mounted on a traction sheave grooved for hoisting cables--generally used in units moving at more than 400 feet per minute.

Governor: Mechanical device used to limit the car speed. Generally the fly-ball type.

Group Zoning: Groups of cars installed and programmed to serve specific zones or area of a building. One building may contain several groups; such as local, intermediate, or express.

Guide Shoes: Brake type shoes are used instead of rollers or wheels; operate as roller guides.

Hoistway Access Switch: Key operated switch, found at the top landing and lowest landing, for operation hoistway doors. Normally the switch is 72” above the floor and 12” to the side of the door.

Hoistway Door Interlock: Prevents movement of the car unless the hoistway doors are closed and locked.

Hoisting Ropes: Steel cables used to raise and lower the car.

Hydraulic Elevator: Car mounted on top of hydraulic plunger that is raised by oil pressure and lowered by gravity. Some older installations receive partial support from cables and counterweights. Generally not used for lifts over 65' or speeds over 200 f.p.m.

Landing: Floor or floor level at which the car should stop.

Landing Zone: Space of 18 to 30 inches, up or down, in which the car is expected to stop.

Load Weighing By-Pass: Weight sensing device on the bottom of a car. When a pre-set weight limit is reached, the car will not stop at all stations, but will by-pass until the weight is adjusted.

Lobby: Usually the main floor (but not necessarily) of a building.

Lobby Panel: Same as a lobby control, normally found locked.

Local Hoistways: Shafts with landing openings at each floor.

Machinery (Motor) Room: Enclosed room housing elevator machinery and equipment, generally locked in a penthouse for electric elevators. Machinery is generally adjacent to the pit for hydraulic elevators.

Oil Pot: Oil pressure type brake used on some older installations.

Overtravel: When moving upward, the car will stop with the floor of the car above the correct landing level. On downward movement, the car floor will be below the correct landing level -- the car has traveled too far.

Park: After completing its final call the car returns to the lobby and “sleeps”.

Photo-Cell (Photo-Electric Device): Electric eye device used to activate door closing devices. Most cells are at approximate hand and calf level (average) and some newer units cover the entire door area and a space outward from the door.

Pit: Sunken floor area under hoistway used to house buffers and elevator equipment.

Position Indicator: Found both inside the car and in corridors indicating floor position and direction of car travel.

Power-Operated Doors: Motor driven doors that slide to the side of the car.



Roller Guides: Sets of small wheels or rollers mounted on a frame attached to the car and rolling on the rails.

Safeties: Special mechanical emergency brakes provided on cars supported by cables. Safeties are provided should the cables fail or if the car descends too fast. Electric, hydraulic and pneumatic devices are no longer permitted. Safeties are normally activated when car speed exceeds 15-20% of their rated speeds. Once activated, the car cannot be moved until the safeties are released and the power returned to the motor.

Service Elevator: Car designed and installed for carrying both passengers and freight.

Shaft: Same as hoistway.

Side Emergency Exit: Special opening on the side of the car, normally found on cars when hoistway landings are over 30” apart. The opening must be at least 60” high and 14” wide. A key is needed for interior opening and a handle is used for the exterior opening.

Sleep: Electronic process of putting a car in an area or landing of greatest potential use. The doors are closed and the power is shut off.

Top Emergency Exit: Minimum 20” x 20” opening on top of the car. Newer installations can only be opened from the exterior.

Unit: Complete elevator, including car, hoistway and machinery.

Ventilation: Cars traveling over three (3) stories must be in a vented hoistway. Cars with doors must be vented top and bottom. All ventilation must be mechanical.

O/SUP-224 SPECIAL TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT UPDATED 6/16/2016

SIERRA JUMBO MODEL 44 HOSE CLAMPThe Sierra Jumbo Model 44 Hose Clamp is made of tensile aluminum. It handles hose sizes ranging from 1 1/2 to 3 inches. The MH-44 hose clamp will turn down easily under pressure and will not open accidentally according to the manufacturer.

The body of the clamp is made of high tensile aluminum with a stainless steel insert in the lock. It has a bronze screw and nut for strength. Needle bearings are also included in the shut-off bar. The handle is aluminum and is 24-inches in length. The hose clamp base dimensions are 8 inches by 17 inches long.

Applying the Hose Clamp to Charged Line1. Push inward on latch control.

2. Open jaws of hose clamp.

3. Place charged hose line evenly in hose clamp jaw.

4. Close hose clamp. MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS PROPERLY SEATED.

5. TURN THE HANDLE CLOCKWISE UNTIL THE WATER IS SHUT-OFF.

Operating the MH-44 Hose ClampStand on the supply side when using the hose clamp to control water in a hose line. Apply the hose clamp at least 20 feet behind the apparatus and 6 feet from the coupling on the supply side. DO NOT USE ON 4” OR 5” HOSE!

Opening the Hose Clamp1. Push inward on latch to release it from stainless steel insert.2. Open jaws of hose clamp by raising the upper housing.

3. Place hose evenly in lower jaw of hose clamp.



4. Close jaw of hose clamp by lowering the upper hosing until the latch seats into lock position. MAKE SURE THE LATCH IS PROPERLY SEATED!

NOTE: THE SHUT OFF BAR MAY BE LOWERED MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO SECURE THE LATCH INTO THE LOCKED POSITION. IF THIS OCCURS, TURN THE HANDLE COUNTER-CLOCKWISE TO RAISE THE SHUT-OFF BAR.

5. Adjust shut-off bar to control water supply by turning the handle. (turn clockwise)

Releasing the Hose Clamp from Hose1. Turn handle slowly counter-clockwise to raise the shut-off bar. 2. Make sure the shut-off bar clears the charged hose line.3. Push inward on latch.4. Lift upper housing to open hose clamp.5. Remove charged hose line.6. Close hose clamp.

BANNER GUARD MARKERS FOR CROWD CONTROL, SAFETY HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

UseThis procedure establishes the guidelines for the Fire Department to control looting, provide for evidence protection, and to not allow unauthorized entry by any civilian or emergency personnel that would respond to an emergency scene. Due to possible “immediately dangerous to life and health” (IDLH) conditions that may be encountered at emergencies, banner guard may be used for identifying potentially dangerous area(s) as needed. The Incident Commander (IC) will manage the Banner Guard use. On a single company response, if the company officer wants to secure an area, they should call for a District Officer. Banner Guard is to be placed on the emergency scene in such a manner that it would be supported approximately 3 feet off the ground. Banner Guard can be supported from trees, fences, utility poles, fire apparatus, cars, or any other appropriate object at the scene of the emergency.

Extreme care must be taken when applying banner guard to private property so as not to destroy or damage the property.

RemovalIt is the responsibility of the IC, or their designee, to remove the Banner Guard.

Upon orders to remove the Banner Guard, it will be taken down and returned to the fire station to be disposed of in a manner that it will not be usable by any unauthorized person.

Replacement:When approximately ¾ of the roll of Banner Guard has been used, a replacement roll may be obtained from the Maintenance Facility.CROWD CONTROL BANNER GUARDThe Crowd Control banner guard is yellow with black letters.UseThe crowd control banner guard is used to control looting, provide for evidence protection, and to not allow unauthorized entry by any civilian or emergency personnel that would respond to an emergency scene.

AvailabilityAll District Officer vehicles will carry a supply of crowd control banner guard in the ISO Go Bag.



SAFETY HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS BANNER GUARDThe Safety banner guard is white with black letters. The hazmat banner guard is orange with black letters.UseThe safety and hazardous materials banner guards will be used whenever the IC deems it necessary for the protection of emergency personnel for the following:

Crowd Control

Safety Hazards

Hazmat Spills

Collapse Zones

The safety and hazardous materials banner guard is used to identify a zone(s) or area(s) that present a dangerous or hazardous condition of such a serious nature that the IC deems it necessary to exclude all emergency scene personnel from entering. The banner guard may also be used to limit entry into an area after the IC has identified all hazards and risks, and the IC has informed employees entering the area of the hazards and risks. Anytime this banner guard is used, entry into the restricted area is only permitted upon orders from the IC.

The IC must have the flexibility to decide when this restriction system is appropriate. When safety or hazardous materials banner guard is used, it should encompass the entire hazard or at a minimum, mark all access points into the hazard area. At the point that the banner guard is used, the IC must identify the hazards, risks and hazard area over the radio. The IC should give any additional responding companies this information before they are allowed into the hazardous area.Should the size of the hazard or potential for serious injury warrant an accountability officer to monitor entry and exit from the hazardous area, the IC may assume this responsibility or assign an individual or individuals to this responsibility according to our current Incident Management System.

AvailabilityThe safety banner guard will be carried on:

All suppression District Officer vehicles, in ISO GO Bag.

Deputy Chief of Operation’s vehicle

Safety Officer’s vehicle

The hazmat banner guard will be carried on: Hazmat Units

Special Operations Vehicles

Safety Officer’s vehicle

All Suppression District Officer vehicles, in ISO Go Bags.



O/SUP-225 EMERGENCY RESPONSES UPDATED 6/16/2016

COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL Nothing ShowingThe first suppression unit to arrive at the scene shall assume command of the incident. The initial Incident Commander shall remain in command until command is transferred or the incident is stabilized and terminated.

Command will determine the number of responding resources needed to investigate the incident and assign them.

All remaining companies on the response will go to Level 1 staging until assigned by command.

Smoke or Fire ShowingThe first suppression unit to arrive at the scene shall assume command of the incident. The initial Incident Commander shall remain in command until command is transferred or the incident is stabilized and terminated.

Command will decide the Strategic Mode of the incident, i.e., Offensive or Defensive through initial size up and assign responding resources to satisfy in order the Tactical Priorities:

Life Safety

Incident Stabilization

Property Conservation

Continue to provide for the safety and accountability of personnel

In addition, if the first arriving company is an Engine Company and enroute information indicates a working fire situation, an initial water supply will be provided. The remaining responding companies will stage Level 1 until assigned by Command.

SINGLE COMPANY RESPONSECommand of single company incidents will be assumed by the Company Officer/Acting Officer upon arrival at the incident scene as per OKCFD Incident Management System.

The first suppression unit on the scene must initiate whatever parts of the Incident Management System are needed to effectively manage the incident scene.

A single company incident (trash fires, single patient EMS incidents, etc.) may only require that Company or unit acknowledge their arrival on the scene.

For incidents that require the commitment of multiple Companies or units, the first unit or member on the scene must announce “command” and develop an Incident Command Structure appropriate for the incident.

The first arriving fire department unit activates the command process by giving an initial radio report.

RADIO DESIGNATIONThe radio designation “Command” will be used along with the geographical location of the incident (i.e. “7th Street Command”, “Ford Cox Center Command)”. This designation will not change throughout the duration of the incident. The designation of “Command” will remain with the officer currently in command of the incident throughout the event. The address side of an incident will usually be the side designated as Side A or Division A if divisions are established.



The responsibility of the first arriving suppression unit to assume Command of the incident presents several options, depending on the situation. If a Chief Officer, member, or unit without tactical capabilities (i.e., staff vehicle, no equipment, etc.) initiates Command, the establishment of a Command Post should be a top priority. At most incidents the initial Incident Commander will be a Company Officer. The following command options define the Company Officer's direct involvement in tactical activities and the modes of command that may be utilized.

ARRIVAL RADIO REPORTThe Radio Report should include:

1. Unit designation of the unit arriving on the scene.

2. A brief description of the incident situation, (building size, occupancy, Hazardous Materials release, etc…)

3. Obvious conditions (working fire, Haz-Mat spill, multiple patients, etc…)

4. Brief description of action taken.

5. Declaration of Strategy (this applies to structure fires).

6. Any obvious safety concerns. (If applicable)

7. Assumption, identification, and location of command. (Upon arrival of the District Officer)

8. Request or release resources as required.

Examples:For an offensive structure fire -“Engine Eleven is on the scene of a large two story school with a working fire on the second floor. Engine Eleven is laying a supply line and going in with a hand line to the second floor for search and rescue. This is an offensive fire attack. Engine Eleven will be 7th Street Command.”

For a defensive fire -“Engine One is on the scene of a medium size warehouse fully involved with exposures to the east. Engine One is laying a supply line and attacking the fire with a master stream and a hand line to the exposure for search and rescue and fire attack. This is a defensive fire. Engine One will be Buckeye Command.”

For an EMS incident - “Rescue Ladder 15 is on the scene with a multi-vehicle accident. Give me the balance of a 1st Alarm with three ambulances. Rescue Ladder 15 will be establishing Kilpatrick turnpike Command.”

For a single Company Incident - “Engine 6 is on the scene of a dumpster fire with no exposures. Engine 6 can handle this.” “Ladder 6 you can return in service.”

TRANSFER OF COMMANDOne of the main features of ICS is a procedure to transfer command with minimal disruption to the incident. This procedure may be used any time personnel in supervisory positions change. Whenever possible, transfer of command should take place face-to-face and include a complete briefing.

The effective time and date of the transfer should be communicated to personnel.



A transfer of command briefing should always take place. The briefing should include:

A complete briefing.

Situation status.

Incident objectives and priorities.

Current organization.

Resource assignments.

Resources ordered and en route.

Incident facilities.

Incident communications plan.

Incident prognosis, concerns, and other issues.

Introduction of Command and General Staff members.

MUTUAL AIDOn a Mutual Aid Response, the first arriving Oklahoma City Fire Department apparatus will establish Oklahoma City Operations/Branch and check-in with the Incident Commander or staging officer if established.

Arriving mutual aid companies assisting Oklahoma City Fire Department will check-in with the Incident Commander or staging officer if established.

O/SUP-226 WILDLAND FIRES UPDATED 6/16/2016

These are Operating Procedures to be used by all Oklahoma City Fire Department personnel operating at a wild land fire. This manual includes guidelines for operations and tactics, but is in no way intended to be an all-inclusive manual for tactics. Refer to the IFSTA manual “Fundamentals of Wild land Firefighting” for specific tactics and methods used to control wild land fires.

RESPONSEA. During grass season - Task forces will be dispatched to all reported grass fires. The Deputy

Chief or his designee will determine when task force response will be required. Once task force response is in effect, it will remain in effect until terminated by the Deputy Chief.

B. Normal Response - Dispatch will determine how many units to respond, based on information received from the caller. (Size of fire, weather conditions, proximity to exposures, etc.)

C. Attack Method - Upon arrival, the first in company (after size up) will make a decision on which attack method to use (direct or indirect) on fire attack. Exposures get first priority. Ask: What do I have? Where is it going? Who is in the way?Going directly to the head of the fire is not always the best option.

If you have homes threatened. save lives first and property second. When you have to choose which home to save, look for the one that you have the best chance of saving. Homes that have a high fuel load close to the structure may have to be written off as indefensible. Choose the battle you can win.

Working from the burned side is safer. If it’s an option, use it, if not, have an escape route. When working from the unburned side, extreme caution is required. Know your fuel load, know the topography and know the weather. Look at the intensity of the fire.Know the weather conditions and forecasted weather (including regular humidity drop during the hottest part of the day). A weather change requires a size up with expected conditions.



Ask yourself, Should I be here? If you are at the top of a hill with cedar trees around, do I really want to be here when the fire gets here? How much water do I have? How hot is this going to be burning when the fire arrives? Maybe this is not the place to “make a stand”. Find a place with natural fire breaks/escape routes. Use of the 1” whip line with a ½” solid stream nozzle can flow up to 80 GPM. Use this line sparingly to avoid wasting water.

D. Command Post - A Command Post shall be established by the first arriving District Officer and can be moved as the fire progresses

E. Off Road Use of Equipment - Four wheel drive brush pumpers are the only rigs that should normally be used off roadways. Before going off road, engage the four wheel drive, Start the pump. Flow water. Make sure your guns are loaded before heading to the fight.

Drop a cone or Quadra-flare to show other companies where you have found access. Engines are an excellent resource to be spotted at threatened exposures.

If you are on a brush pumper staffed by one person, request an additional firefighter from the incident commander.

Visibility is at a premium when off road. Leave all your warning lights on. If you have a firefighter in the jump seat leave the driver’s window partially down so you can stay in contact. When you need to refill, turn the pump off and advise command. Use a spotter when visibility is low.The operators of any apparatus should determine the condition of the ground before taking equipment off the roadway.

F. Incident Management System - Command of the incident will be assumed by the first arriving Company Officer as per OKCFD Incident Management System.

G. Tactical Considerations - Command should consider relieving crews on a regular basis on long term fires. The fire ground should be divided geographically, Do not assign divisions with Bravo, Charlie, Delta etc. Use West flank, East flank etc. As the situation grows consider using North Division, South division etc. as needed.When spotting water supply apparatus consider using mutual aid to fill brush pumpers, take into consideration proximity and accessibility to the fire and clearly report the location.With the increased capabilities of tankers, consider using them as a “from the road fire attack apparatus”. The Tankers are equipped with turrets that flow from 120 GPM to over 300 GPM. Tandem Attack Method - The second in brush pumper should go immediately to the tandem attack mode and follow the first in brush pumper. As the lead brush pumper runs out of water, it should move out of the fire area to refill and should be replaced at the rear of the tandem attack with another full brush pumper. A minimum of three brush pumpers would be required on the 1st alarm on medium or large grass fires.

Ladder companies could be utilized for staffing on undermanned brush pumpers. If a rig gets stuck and is in danger of further damage, the officer in charge may use whatever means are available to get the rig unstuck. If the rig is not in danger, follow the Maintenance Bulletin for requesting a Fire Department wrecker. Pick the best nozzle for the fuel load encountered. Wear your protective clothing including nomex hood.

Never try to outrun fire Retreat to the cab of the rig as a last resort



MUTUAL AIDA. When to Call - Mutual aid may be requested by any company officer or District Officer when they feel

their response will prevent a fire from getting out of control. If the need for mutual aid is questionable, have dispatch notify the mutual aid dispatchers of a fire near them, and to be prepared to respond. This will reduce the response time of volunteer fire departments when requested.

B. Who to call - When requesting mutual aid, the requesting officer may let dispatch decide which mutual aid companies to contact, or the officer may request specific mutual aid companies, based on his knowledge of their proximity to the fire, available apparatus and staffing, etc.

C. Use of OKCFD Companies - On large, slow burning fires where long response times will not allow the fire to get out of control, available OKCFD units should be requested before calling for mutual aid.

D. Line of Authority - The fire department having jurisdiction where the fire originated shall be in command. Fireground companies on mutual aid responses may be operating under the direct supervision of officers of different fire departments.

E. Riding on Mutual Aid Equipment - Due to legal liabilities, OKCFD personnel are not to ride on mutual aid apparatus, nor vice versa.

F. Apparatus Identification - Fireground companies shall be identified by using their city and apparatus number; i.e. Okla. City Eng. 2, Spencer Brush Pumper 504, etc.

G. Response - If a staging area has not been established, or if an exact location to respond to has not been received, companies responding on mutual aid calls shall report to the Command Post for assignment.

BASIC GUIDELINES FOR TANKER OPERATIONSTanker apparatus can be utilized several different ways. It may be used to fill Fold-a-Tanks for use on wild land or structure fires, supply hand lines directly from the tank, or nurse feed an Engine and often overlooked as a wild land fire attack apparatus.

In most cases, tankers will operate with other apparatus. Sometimes this will include mutual aid companies. Preplanning your tanker operations with surrounding companies and mutual aid companies is important to an operations success.

All OKCFD personnel should be familiar with the following basic guidelines for tanker operations.

Two important factors that must be considered for successful tanker operations are Shuttle Turn Time and Shuttle GPM Flow.

Shuttle Turn Time - The time it takes a tanker to leave the scene, fill with water, and return to the scene and dump its water.

Shuttle GPM Flow - The tanker shuttle operation gpm flow must meet or exceed that of the firefighting apparatus. If one tanker cannot match that flow, then more tankers should be called for.

Example of Shuttle Turn Time and GPM flow: One engine pumping to two 250 gpm nozzles would need a gpm flow of 500 gallons per minute. Using a 2500 gallon tanker, the turnaround time would have to be 5 minutes, which is

impossible, and more tankers would need to be called. The number of tankers needed would depend on the turn time.



It is important to know how many tankers will be needed for different size fire flows. It is also important to identify low and no water areas through preplanning. Explore all options for water. Factor in static water sources and above ground storage tanks. If the correct number of tankers are not dispatched on the initial alarm, the chances of saving a structure will be small.

Following are several methods of supplying water using the tankers and guidelines to be considered during tanker operations.

Dropping Fold-a-Tanks for Water SupplySingle Tank Drop - The tanker will drop off one tank, unload its water into the tank, and pull off both hard suction hoses. The water is then drafted from the tank by an engine or floto pump. Be sure to leave enough room for the drafting engine and for the tanker to resupply the tank.

Multiple Tank Drop (Diamond Method) - When multiple tanks are needed, the diamond method works the best but may not be an option due to terrain considerations. Place the tanks corner to corner, as in the shape of a diamond. The first tanker unloads its water into the first Fold-a-Tank. This will become the draft tank. The engine uses the draft tank, and the tankers will dump the water into the correct dump tank at the water supply officer’s direction. For a continuous water supply the Fold-a-Tanks will need to be connected with at least 2-5” hard suction hoses to siphon from the designated dump tank into the draft tank to achieve maximum GPM.

Connecting Fold-a-Tanks1. Fill the second Fold-a-Tank with tanker water.

2. Place the hard suction hose into the second Fold-a-Tank and submerge it, allowing all the air to escape.

3. Seal the end of the hose with a piece of plastic or some other similar device. Trash bags or biohazard bags work well.

4. Quickly place the sealed end into the Fold-a-Tank you are going to fill and release the seal.

This method can be used with many tanks and for various operations.

Hopping TanksThis method is best used on moving grass fires. The Water Supply Officer will direct the tanker where to drop the Fold-a-Tank and water. Intersections and driveways are a good choice for this operation, allowing plenty of room for apparatus to maneuver. After unloading, the tanker will respond to the water supply site to refill. Water is supplied to the apparatus fighting the fire out of the Fold-a-Tank by an engine drafting from the tank. When necessary, the Fold-a-Tank(s) are emptied and hopped to another specified location.

If this method is chosen, try to use mutual aid companies that you have trained with. Save the OKC Tankers for fire attack.

Dump Site LocationsThe dump site location is where the Fold-a-Tanks are dropped off by the tankers. These sites should have the best possible access and must be clearly identified. Fold-a-Tanks should be placed on as level a surface as possible with the drain hole at the lowest point. Do not put dump sites in the path of a moving fire.

Nurse FeedingNurse feeding is simply hooking a feeder line from the discharge on the tanker to the suction on a pumper. Two tankers may be utilized by siamesing two feeder lines to the engine, from the tankers. To perform this operation, (1) hook up a feeder line to the engine, (2) place a Siamese on the end of the feeder line, (3) hook up two feeder lines to the Siamese. The first tanker on the scene will hook up to one of the feeder lines, open the siamese gate, and begin supplying the engine. The second tanker will hook up to the other feeder line. When the first tanker runs out of water, the other siamese gate is opened and the second tanker begins supplying the engine while the first tanker refills.



The “nursing” method is mostly used on small fires that are not likely to get out of control. If the fire will require more than 3,000 gallons of water, the tanker will need to refill and most likely the engine will run out of water before the tanker returns.

Relay Pumping from a DraftRelay pumping from a draft would be necessary in a rural area where there are no hydrants, and a structure fire too far off the road for an engine to access with hand lines. The first arriving engine has to lay a line from the road down to the fire. The second arriving engine would be relay pumping from a draft to the first engine.

Upon arriving at a fire scene in rural areas it is vital to take just a moment to assess where to set your engine. You must leave room for tanker shuttle operations. All incoming rigs need to park on the same side as the pumping engine leaving room around the drop tank. If a tanker is already on the scene nursing an engine, a wye will be used on the supply line to allow the next available engine to take over water supply without interrupting water to the fire.

The tanker will have dropped a tank with hard suction hose, jet siphon, 1 section of 3” hose and 1 section of 1 ¾” hose. This equipment is for the second arriving engine company to draft with.

Procedures for Drafting Engine1. Position rig to draft out of drop tank. Leave room for tanker shuttle.

2. Hook up 50’ section of 3” hose to WYE and then to your pump discharge.

3. Hook up hard suction to jet siphon and then to intake valve. (Remove intake valve and connect hard suction directly to pump intake. Leaks in the intake relief valve may cause loss of suction.)

4. Hook up 1 ¾” hose to jet siphon and then to pump. This will be to assist prime.

5. Place rig in pump gear (make sure all valves, drains and discharges are closed or air leak will cause you to lose prime).

6. Open the tank to pump valve and open discharge to 3” line on the WYE (throttle up to pressure 20 psi + FL).

7. Open WYE on engine side and close tanker side.a. Tanker shuts down nursing operation and dumps remaining water into drop tank.

8. Open the large intake valve to begin drafting and increase throttle to assist priming

9. Prime can be achieved by any 1 of 3 ways:a. First Method – Use pump primer

b. Second Method – Jet Siphon

c. Third Method – Backfilling with tank water

10. Watch for movement of water thru hard suction. As prime is achieved begin closing tank to pump slowly until closed.a. Watch booster tank level closely. Prime must be achieved before Booster tank is empty!

11. As soon as the tank to pump valve is closed, open tank fill valve slowly and only part way or you will lose pressure. Fill the booster tank as soon as possible.

12. Watch water level in drop tank and notify Water Supply Officer if water level falls to half.a. Keep the booster tank water as an emergency reserve!

b. Notify Command if you have to start using booster tank Water.



Water Supply LocationsThe amount of water that the water supply can deliver is important. A small water supply that is close may have to be passed up for large water supply that is farther away. If a good hydrant is not available, water may be obtained from nearby ponds, pools, streams, and/or lakes, consider using above ground storage tanks

When feasible, use an engine at the fill site to refill apparatus. The use of an engine will speed up refill operations. The fill site engine can set different fill points by extending separate fill lines.

Do not congest the fill site area. Tankers waiting to be refilled should stay well away from the area until their turn to refill. When refilling, if the tanker will have to turn around, it should do so before refilling while the tank is empty.

Roads and bridges must be considered when determining water supply. Never have the travel route cross unsafe bridges. Consider forming a loop if apparatus must pass each other on narrow roads.

Important Points When doing a tanker shuttle all rigs should park on the same side of the road to allow Tankers to

pass.

Engines can pump off their tank directly into the drop tank. A spotter must be used. Pull engine alongside drop tank(as close as safely possible), open a discharge and off load the tank using the pump.

Do not over commit on an interior attack until a secure water source is established.

Keep command advised of water levels.

Have an escape route.

The idea of waiting for the fire to get out of the tree line so we can get to it can be faulty. Generally while in the tree line the speed of spread slows down. If the fuel load is at its lowest, break out the hand tools. It’s harder work and there are additional hazards involved.

Watch for snags. (overhead limbs that may fall)

A complete knock down on a grass fire may not be possible on the first pass. Slow it down and circle back for a complete knock down.

If your rig gets stuck in a high fuel load and the fire line is coming and no help is in reach, spend the time building a fire line around your rig. i.e. Hand tools or backfire. Hopefully you have the water to contain it, but get rid of the fuel around your rig. The LAST escape route is inside the rig.

Class A Foams - highly effective in promoting penetration of burning fuels. Ratios of

.3% used to penetrate

.5% used for fire attack

1% can be used to pretreat a structure or build a temporary fire line. When building a fire line with a foam blanket, the width of the fire line needs to be 1.5 times the height of the flames and completely coat all surfaces of the fuel.

With low humidity, watch for spot fires. Advise incoming companies and chiefs to be looking for spot fires.

Downed power lines frequently start grass fires. Watch for downed power lines.



WILDLAND FIRES GLOSSARYBackfiring: A defensive tactic where fires are intentionally set ahead of a moving wildland fire, utilizing natural or manmade firebreaks. This tactic is only used when a direct attack is not feasible.

Brush Pumpers: Fire apparatus specifically adapted for fighting ground cover fires. These units are usually four wheel drive and carry approximately 300 gallons of water.

Fire flow: Total number of gallons of water needed per minute to control and extinguish a fire. Usually expressed as GPM.

Fold-a-Tank: Portable tanks carried on all OKCFD tankers. Two tanks are carried on each tanker and hold 2500 gallons of water each.

Head of Fire: The downwind leading edge of the fire.

Mutual Aid Companies: Fire departments and fire districts that have an agreement with Oklahoma City to assist when requested. These companies may be paid or volunteer.

Tandem Attack: A direct attack method of fighting a wild land fire where one or more units follow each other along the fire line. As the lead unit runs out of water, it is replaced by the unit directly following it.

Tankers: Fire apparatus with a water tank capacity of 1,000 gallons or larger whose primary purpose is transporting water. OKCFD tankers hold 2,500 and 3000 gallons of water and many can be used as an offensive attack apparatus

Task Force: An initial response consisting of one (1) Engine Co., and two (2) Brush Pumpers (if available).

Water Supply Apparatus: Apparatus used to supply water. Includes tankers, engines. Water may be obtained from the on board tank, hydrants, or drafted from creeks, rivers, ponds, swimming pools, etc.

Water Supply Officer: This position is staffed on an as needed basis. Duties include but are not limited to, locating a sufficient water supply, figuring total GPM needed, determining travel routes, number of tankers needed and turnaround time.

Water Supply: Source of water available for use in firefighting operations. Includes hydrants, ponds, pools, tankers, and above ground storage tanks.

O/SUP-227 BACKUP LINE POLICY UPDATED 8/15/2000

A backup line is a charged line of equal or larger diameter hose that is placed to back up the attack crew. (A backup line should be pulled and advanced anytime a crew is making any type of interior attack). The backup line should follow the attack line, not in a collapse or flashover area, and not directly behind the attack crew but close enough to protect the attack crew and provide a means of escape if necessary without becoming victims themselves.

A backup line is needed for the following reasons: The backup line provides a much-needed margin of safety for the attack crew. *

If the fire overpowers the attack line the backup line can be used for fire attack. *

* Should the backup line be needed for fire attack, the officer in charge of the backup line should notify command that they need another backup line.

If for any reason that two lines are necessary to extinguish the fire, and both lines are coming into the structure from the same entrance, then only one backup line is necessary. If for any reason the two attack lines are coming from two different entrances, then a backup line will be necessary for each attack line.



O/SUP-228 EMERGENCY SCENE TRAFFIC CONTROL UPDATED 8/15/2000

PURPOSETo create a safe work zone for OKCFD employees operating at emergency scenes on or near right-of-ways.

SCOPEThis procedure applies to all OKCFD personnel who operate at emergency incidents on or near right-of-ways.

OBJECTIVES To provide early warning to motorists of disturbances in normal traffic patterns.

To provide clear direction and positive guidance as to what actions motorists need to take.

To provide a system that protects the public and emergency scene personnel from the dangers of altered traffic flow.

RESPONSIBILITIES

All PersonnelIt shall be the responsibility of all personnel to: Maintain an acute awareness of the high risk of working around a moving traffic environment.

Exit the curb side or non-traffic side of the vehicle whenever possible.

Always face traffic when placing or retrieving cones.

Wear the proper PPE including helmet and reflective vest or coat.

Walk as close to fire apparatus as possible when parked adjacent to moving traffic.

Always look at traffic conditions before you step

Use extreme caution when stepping outside the work zone or crossing medians.

Incident Commander / Company OfficerIt shall be the responsibility of the I.C. / C.O. to: Operate as an initial safety officer.

Assess the parking needs of later arriving apparatus (ambulances).

Specifically direct the placement of vehicles to provide protective blocking of the scene

Do not return Companies until an adequate safe work zone has been created (even on non-injury accidents)

Call for additional resources in order to create a safe work zone. Ensure that proper warning and channeling devices are put in place.

Ensure that personnel wear the appropriate level of PPE for the operation.

Apparatus OperatorIt shall be the responsibility of the apparatus operator to: Ensure the proper warning lights are on.

Position the apparatus in a manner that provides a buffer zone between the apparatus and the incident.



APPARATUS PLACEMENTThe first arriving company shall position the apparatus in a manner that effectively barricades the “safe work zone” from oncoming traffic. The apparatus should be angled:

To provide greater lateral protection of the scene

To utilize the reflective striping

To promote the flow of traffic in a given direction

Positioning apparatus where personnel will be required to cross medians or lanes of traffic is inherently dangerous and should be avoided if at all possible. Additional apparatus shall be positioned before the scene (as suggested in Table 1) to help warn oncoming traffic and provide an adequate buffer zone.

WARNING! When operating in the vicinity of sight distance obstructions (hills, curves, etc.) the additional apparatus shall be positioned in the same lane(s) as the incident, prior to the obstruction, in order to provide adequate warning.

Table 1: Recommended guidelines for length of a safe work zone

Example:

CHANNELING DEVICESConesEach apparatus shall be equipped with at least 3 (three), 28-inch traffic cones to be used anytime the unit is parked on a roadway. (Cones are designed to guide traffic, not to warn it!)

Cones shall be placed starting at approximately 100 feet behind the unit angling in a line towards the desired flow of traffic around the incident. Additional cones from other units may be needed to supplement the taper depending on traffic conditions.

FlaresDue to the likelihood of flammable liquid spills on an accident scene, it is recommended that flares NOT be used to direct traffic around the incident.

Additional ResourcesAvailable resources such as the Emergency Barricade Truck from the OKC Traffic Management Division should be contacted to help with traffic control on extended incidents.

WARNING DEVICES

LightsDuring operations, all emergency lights shall stay on.

ApparatusWhen using apparatus or other vehicles as warning devices to an incident, angle the unit to direct motorists toward the desired flow of traffic and allow full use of the reflective strip on the side.

PERSONNEL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENTAll personnel shall wear the appropriate level of PPE for the operation. At a minimum, this will include helmet and reflective vest or bunker coat.



DEMOBILIZING THE SCENEIt is important to demobilize the scene systematically to ensure the continued safety of emergency personnel. The Incident Commander should not return OKCFD apparatus too quickly; this may affect the safe work zone.

Once the incident is terminated for OKCFD, the cones should be retrieved starting with the cones near the apparatus closest to the accident. Always face the oncoming traffic when picking up cones and be cautious of the traffic.

When the apparatus closest to the accident has retrieved their cones, the next apparatus should pick up their cones. The safe work zones created by the apparatus should remain in place until all personnel have boarded the apparatus and are ready to return in service.

O/SUP-229 MAYDAY POLICY UPDATED 7/5/2017

This Standard Operating Procedure explains what constitutes a Mayday and outlines the procedures used for calling a Mayday. This SOP will also explain what procedures to take after a Mayday is called.

This SOP meets or exceeds NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Program, and OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard 1910.134 (2 in-2 out standard).

Mayday is a universally known radio term used in the fire service to alert the Incident Commander or others of a life-threatening situation.

A Mayday can be transmitted by the Incident Commander or any personnel operating on the incident that finds themselves or others in immediate danger.

Reasons for calling a Mayday: Lost/disoriented in a building for more than 30 seconds

Trapped or pinned for any amount of time

Overtaken by fire conditions (firefighter down)

PASS activation

Primary egress blocked by fire/collapse and other exit location unknown

Low air alarm combined with any of the above situations.

A Mayday will be transmitted over the radio in the following manner:

Mayday, Mayday, Mayday (3 times), followed by a radio transmission giving a description of the problem. The company or person in trouble should use the LUNAR acronym to make sure all pertinent information is transmitted. Location of company and the situation, Unit number or Name of person, Assignment that they were given, and Resources needed to aid them.

ExampleMayday, Mayday, Mayday! E1 to command, we have had a ceiling collapse on the second floor and our exit has been cut off. We are located in the B/C corner of the building on the second floor and need a ladder placed to the second floor window on side

When a Mayday is transmitted the following procedures are to be followed by the Incident Commander in charge of the incident:1. Acknowledge the Mayday.

2. Activate the RIT.

3. Request an additional alarm and an ambulance.



4. Advise dispatch that you will need another TAC channel assigned to this incident. All companies operating and all responding companies will operate on the newly assigned TAC channel. The only companies that will remain on the initially assigned TAC channel will be the RIT and the company that initiated the Mayday.

5. Gather as much information as possible to relay to the RIT. Use the LUNAR acronym.L Location (floor/quadrant/wing)U Unit (E1)N Name (Corporal Smith)A Assignment (checking for extension)R Resources needed (need ladder to 2nd floor for rescue)

6. Assign a RIT Operations, with a Company Officer or higher assigned to oversee this operation. A company will need to be assigned as the back-up RIT.

7. The IC will call for a Personnel Accountability Report (PAR) from all companies operating on the fire ground.

PERSONNEL ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEMPersonnel Accountability is very important on every incident. Personnel Accountability ensures that you know who you are responsible for, where they are, and what they are doing. A Personnel Accountability Report should be initiated anytime a MAYDAY has been transmitted over the radio. A PAR should also be done when conditions on the fire ground change. For example, when a hostile fire event occurs (flashover, backdraft, or collapse). A PAR should be called anytime operational modes are changed (offensive to defensive). A PAR can also be called anytime the IC deems it necessary to make sure that he has accountability of all personnel operating on the scene. If the IC deems it necessary to call for a PAR, it will be initiated and controlled by the IC.

When a PAR is initiated the following procedures need to be followed:All companies working on the incident need to take a head count to make sure all the personnel that are assigned to them are accounted for.

If you are working under a Division, Sector, or Group Supervisor, you need to report your accountability numbers to them. Because time is of the essence on incidents, this will reduce the amount of time to take an accountability report.

If a Chief Officer is in charge of the Division, Sector, or Group, the Chief’s District Officer’s DAA is responsible for tracking the companies that have been assigned to that area. When the IC calls for a PAR the following terminology should be used so that uniformity is kept throughout the department and so everyone knows exactly what is meant when the report is given.

When asked for a PAR you must answer with:

PAR - which means all personnel are accounted for

PLUS - and the number and name of the extra person(s) or companies.

MINUS - and the number and name(s) of the missing person or company.

Example Command to E1, give me a PAR. E1 to command we have a PAR

Command to E2, give me a PAR. E2 to command we are PLUS one member. We have Cpl. Smith from E3.

Command to E3, give me a PAR. E3 to command we are MINUS two members. We are missing Cpl. Jones and Cpl. Smith from E3.



Personnel Accountability EquipmentCompany Board: This 3”X6” board is carried on the apparatus with the names of the person(s) assigned to that apparatus that day.

The company board will be carried on every department vehicle that responds to emergency calls. The company board will be carried on the front windshield on the officer’s side at the top of the window where the windshield and frame meet. This will allow the company board to be easily found when it needs to be retrieved by the accountability officer. This location will also let the company officer readily see it to ensure that it is current and correct at all times.

Name tag: Every person will be issued two .75”X2.5” name tags to be carried underneath the brim of their helmet. One tag will be yellow and one will be white.

Each tag will have two lines. The top line will state the organization (OKCFD) and the other will state their name and rank. The yellow tag is placed on the company board to designate the apparatus to which you are currently assigned. The white tag is carried under the brim of your helmet to give to the officer in charge of the area you are working if your company has been split up for any reason.

It is the responsibility of every employee to make sure that their name tag is placed on the apparatus each morning at shift change and to make sure that the name tag of the person that they are relieving is placed back underneath the brim of their helmet. It is the responsibility of the Company Officer to make sure the company Board is correct at all times.

There will be 20 extra name tags and 5 extra company boards carried on the Battalion ChiefDistrict Officer’s carsvehicle.

Communication ProceduresWhen a Mayday has been called over the radio, the Incident Commander should advise dispatch and all companies operating on the incident that radio communications should be kept to those that are only necessary for the mitigation of the incident. No unnecessary traffic should be used. This is to keep the lines of communication open for the companies operating in the RIT Operations to communicate freely with Command without having to wait for the radio to clear. This also allows the company or person who initiated the Mayday to be able to freely communicate with the RIT Ops or the Incident Commander. Dispatch should notify all companies on the extra alarm assignment of the new TAC channel that they will be utilizing upon dispatch.

The Incident Commander will notify all companies of the new TAC channel, then proceed with a PAR on the new TAC channel. This allows one TAC channel for RIT Operations and one TAC channel for the mitigation of the initial incident.

If an emergency signal is transmitted from a handheld radio, dispatch will notify command of the company and handset number from which the emergency signal is coming. The incident commander will check on the validity of the emergency signal and dispatch will not turn the signal off until confirmation from command that the signal was unintentional or that the signal is a valid emergency.

O/SUP-230 RAPID INTERVENTION TEAM (RIT) UPDATED 7/5/2017

This Standard Operating Procedure explains what an initial Rapid Intervention Team should bring to the RIT staging area, to whom they will report and what their immediate functions on an emergency scene are to be. This SOP will also explain the proper procedures to follow after a Mayday is called and the RIT has been sent into the IDLH of an emergency scene.

This SOP meets or exceeds NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Program, and OSHA’s Respiratory Protection Standard 1910.134(2 in-2 out standard).



RIT is an acronym that stands for Rapid Intervention Team. The RIT will be a minimum of 3 suppression personnel donned in full PPE. Each member shall have a radio with remote microphone and function under the direction of a single company officer. .

A RIT will be established on any emergency scene where OKCFD personnel will be operating in an IDLH zone inside of a structure or at any other time that the Incident Commander deems that it would be necessary for the safety of OKCFD personnel operating on any emergency scene.

The IC will designate a single company as RIT on all residential and commercial fire alarm responses; however the IC may request additional companies to support RIT functions when the IC deems it necessary.

RIT RESPONSEWhen a company is dispatched as part of the initial response of an emergency, the following actions will be taken by the designated RIT company:

1. The company officer will report to the IC that RIT has arrived on scene; either face to face or via the radio on the designated TAC channel.

2. RIT will assemble tools and equipment at a staging area nearest the most likely point of entry to the structure.

3. The RIT will perform a size up of the structure and tactics being employed to mitigate the hazard and if possible a full 360º of the structure should be performed.

4. The RIT officer will gather additional information from any source available in order to aid RIT if they have to be deployed.

5. RIT will remain in a ready position to enter the structure upon orders of the IC.

6. The RIT may place ladders to windows for additional means of egress for themselves and crews operating inside the structure.

7. The RIT should remove any bars from outside windows creating additional access and egress locations. Hydraulic tools may be considered for the removal of stubborn security bars.

Minimum Tools and Equipment for Initial RIT

Additional Tools and Equipment to be considered

While no list can be all inclusive and predict which tools will be necessary on every incident, the following list of tools and equipment will be the minimum taken by the initially assigned RIT. The RIT officer or IC may add to the equipment and tool list after the size up of the structure has been performed.

Ladders

Chain saw/K-12

Claw tool

Sledge hammer

Pry bars

Battery operated reciprocating saws

Additional search ropes

Air bag systems and cribbing

Tarp for staging area

Hydraulic tool (cutters, rams, and spreaders)

RIT bag with spare cylinder/face piece and separate UAC line

200’ search rope Flat head axe Kelley or Halligan tool Flashlight for each RIT member Voice amplifier for each RIT member Radio with remote microphone for each RIT member



Note: Light hand tools such as Pike poles are of little benefit when searching and removing a downed firefighter and should be substituted with a heavier tool suitable for breaching and breaking. Hydraulic tools such as cutters, rams and spreaders will usually only be of a benefit if victims are entrapped in close enough proximity to run hydraulic lines directly into the structure while leaving the power unit outside.

RIT DeploymentUpon receipt of a MAYDAY situation, the IC will deploy the RIT into the structure to find, assess and remove the downed or missing firefighter(s).1. The IC will designate a company officer or higher level officer to fill the role of RIT Operations (RIT Ops).

a. RIT Ops will now be responsible for: RIT companies’ accountability

(Need to discuss RIT designations, particularly for multiple RIT companies operating within an IDLH atmosphere).

Tracking times of deployed RIT

Current air supply of RIT

Benchmarks of RIT

Requesting additional RIT’s from IC

Requesting RIT support from IC

2. The IC will request a separate TAC channel for their emergency scene.a. The RIT will operate on the initially designated TAC channel and report directly to RIT Ops.

The firefighter(s) in a MAYDAY situation will also remain on the initial TAC channel. All other emergency ground operations will be moved to the new TAC channel.

3. The IC will request an additional alarm.

4. The IC will request an EMSA unit to be dispatched to the scene.

5. The IC shall call for a PAR of all companies operating on the emergency scene.

RIT ResponsibilitiesOne of the most difficult assignments a firefighter will ever face is being part of a RIT that has been sent into a structure to find and remove a downed firefighter. The chances of the RIT safely and successfully completing their assignment are greatly increased if all personnel understand their roles and responsibilities during a Rescue situation.

1. RIT will monitor radio traffic of the emergency scene.a. The RIT officer will notify the IC if a MAYDAY is called and not immediately acknowledged by

the IC.

b. The RIT members will track where each company is operating within the IDLH atmosphere. This will give the RIT a good location for speeding up their search for Maydays or missing personnel.

2. RIT officer will confer with the IC and Safety Officer to obtain as much information possible about the structure prior to any possibly entry.

3. RIT will perform their own size up of the structure when possible and note most likely points of entry and egress for firefighters.

4. RIT will remain in “ready” position to be deployed



5. Upon deployment, the RIT officer will report specific Benchmarks to the RIT Ops. Benchmarks will include but not be limited to:a. Total RIT members

b. Lowest starting air supply of the RIT members

c. RIT entry of structure

d. RIT moving to a different level

e. Obstructions or hazards encountered by RIT

f. RIT located downed firefighter

g. Medical status of MAYDAY firefighter

h. Air supply established on downed firefighter if necessary

i. SCBA conversion of downed firefighter if necessary

j. RIT moving downed firefighter

k. Request for additional RIT or RIT support

l. Last known location of downed firefighter if not removed with initial RIT

m. RIT exiting structure

O/SUP-231 MEDICAL HELICOPTER PROCEDURES UPDATED 7/1/2012

The following procedures will be used once a determination has been made to transport a patient by helicopter.

When requesting the helicopter for a scene, the incident commander will provide the following information to Fire Dispatch. Fire Dispatch will contact EMSA and relay the information to the EMSA Dispatcher. The Firefighter coordinating the landing zone will switch their radio to the EMSA Channel (5D EMSAW) and communicate directly with the medical helicopter.

Scene location: map number, main street, cross street, and/or direction and distance from major intersection. If a global positioning system (GPS) device is available, provide the dispatcher with the proper coordinates of: a) the landing zone (LZ) directly; or b) the direction and approximate distance from the GPS-equipped apparatus to the LZ.1. Scene location: map number, main street, cross street, and/or direction and distance from major

intersection. If a global positioning system (GPS) device is available, provide the dispatcher with the proper coordinates of: a) the landing zone (LZ) directly; or b) the direction and approximate distance from the GPS-equipped apparatus to the LZ.

2. Type of accident or incident.

3. Brief description of patient injury – type and extent.

4. Number of victims requiring air transport, and if adult or child.

5. Communications coordination, i.e., who will the pilot contact on the EMSA Channel (5D EMSAW) before landing .



6. Our agency (OKCFD) and the call-back phone number.



ESTABLISHING A LANDING ZONE (LZ)The landing zone must be at least 100 feet x 100 feet, see Figure 1. Advise the pilot of the following conditions (T.O.W.W.):

Terrain Obstacles Level or sloped

Rocks or bushes

Paved or dirt road

Signs

Cars

Trees

Antennas or towers

Wind Direction Wires Telephone wires

High tension (electric) wires

Guide wires

An area clear of wires, trees, debris and other obstacles is required. The surface should be as smooth as possible, with no more than a five (5) degree slope. Civilians must be kept back a minimum of 150 feet from the helicopter at all times. The LZ can be illuminated at night with chemical lights, headlights, or spotlights. Lights should be directed into the wind, keeping the light from shining in the pilot’s eyes. Do not direct lights at the helicopter. Hazards may be illuminated if necessary and safe to do so. Emergency vehicles should leave the warning lights on so the flight crew can spot the scene.

The approach and departure lanes should be clear of any hazards, no obstructions 100-150 feet up and down wind of the LZ.

For landing safety, always remember:1. Approach the helicopter from the front only, never from the rear, and only when motioned to do so

by the pilot or a crewmember.

2. Do not run beneath the helicopter when it is landing or taking off.

3. Ensure the landing area is secured by law enforcement personnel on the scene, or by fire or EMS personnel.

4. The landing guide should be at least 100 feet from the helicopter. When signaling where to land, stand with your back to the wind. Depart when the helicopter is on final approach.

5. If possible, land the helicopter no closer than 50 yards from the scene.

6. Approach the aircraft from the downhill side if on sloped terrain.



7. Carry all equipment below the waist.

8. Do not assist the flight crew with opening or closing the doors.

9. No smoking or running within 50-feet of the aircraft.

10. Medical Helicopter personnel will coordinate all loading and unloading of patients and equipment.

Rotor wash can produce high winds on take-off or landing. Protect your eyes. Remove caps or loose apparel. If you do lose something, do not try to retrieve it.

O/SUP-232 COMMAND POST RESPONSE GUIDELINES UPDATED 6/16/2016

Various IncidentsThe Command Post located at Station 11 will be dispatched to any call an incident commander deems likely to be an extended incident.

1. When a call for the Command Post occurs, Station 11 personnel will respond with the Command Post and Engine 11 to the desired location.

2. The personnel from Station 11 will set up the Command Post and assist command with the operation of the Command Post.

3. Should the personnel of Station 11 not be needed, it will be at the discretion of the incident commander to either use Station 11’s personnel or return them to service.

Note: When the request for the Command Post is received by dispatch, they will at the earliest convenience, notify 601 that the Command Post is needed at an incident.

Multiple Alarm Structure FireDuring any 4th alarm or greater structure fire, the Command Post located at Station 11 will automatically be dispatched to the scene of the multiple alarm fire.

1. When the Command Post is dispatched, Station 11 personnel will respond with the Command Post and Engine 11 to the desired location.

2. The personnel from Station 11 will set up the Command Post and assist command with the operation of the Command Post.

3. Should the personnel of Station 11 not be needed, it will be at the discretion of the incident commander to either use Station 11’s personnel or return them to service.

Note: When the request for the Command Post is received by dispatch, they will at the earliest convenience, notify 601 that the Command Post is needed at the multiple alarm structure fire.

Fire or Incident in Station 11’s First-In Response District1. In either case of the above circumstances, where Station 11 personnel are not able to respond with

the Command Post, and the incident is west of Station 11, Engine 12 will respond with the Command Post if needed.

a. All other parameters will apply to Engine 12.

2. In either case of the above circumstances, and Station 11 is not able to respond with the Command Post, and the incident is East of Station 11, Engine 30 will respond with the Command Post if needed.

a. All other parameters will apply to Engine 30.



Note: When the request for the Command Post is received by dispatch, they will at the earliest convenience, notify 601 or 604 depending on what company is responding with the Command Post, and inform them that the Command Post is needed at the multiple alarm structure fire.

Note: At no time should a call be made directly to 601, 604 or Station 11 requesting the Command Post. All requests should go through dispatch to ensure the accountability of the rigs and personnel from the respective station and district.

Placing the Command Post Back In Service1. Upon completion of the use of the Command Post, the Incident Commander will designate a

company to return the Command Post back to Station 11.

2. If the incident is one that Station 11 responded to, then they will be the company assigned to return the Command Post to Station 11 and will also be responsible for its inventory and cleaning.

3. Upon returning to Station 11, the company returning the Command Post will with the assistance of Station 11 personnel, perform an inventory of the Command Post as well as clean the inside and outside as needed.

4. Once cleaned and inventoried, Station 11 personnel will send an email to the incident commander of the incident the Command Post was used on, informing him/her of any missing or broken equipment.

On large incidents involving multi-agency or multi-jurisdictional response, the Mobile Command Center (MCC) can be requested to respond. The MCC should be utilized when the incident will extend beyond the first operational period.

O/SUP-233 EMERGENCIES INVOLVING ELECTRICITY UPDATED 7/1/2005

The following is a guide for firefighters who are called upon to handle fires or other emergencies where electric company facilities are involved. It clarifies why the electric company believes it vitally important to have its own specially trained employees on the scene of such emergencies as soon as possible.

EXPERTS NEED EXPERIENCEElectric company employees are not firefighting experts; but because of their day-to-day working knowledge of electricity, they can impart vital helpful information that can be utilized to make the firefighter's job easier. The electric company would not consider assigning one of its own employees to perform work on energized facilities until he has served an apprenticeship under close supervision of a foreman with many years of experience. Only experienced employees who have proven their ability to think quickly and clearly are given assignments to work on emergency cases.

EXPERTS NEED PROPER TOOLSHowever, even tools that would be considered perfectly satisfactory for use on energized facilities by electric company employees may be worse than useless, they may even be dangerous - in the hands of an electrically inexperienced individual, and especially so under the adverse conditions of fighting fire with water chemicals.

Electric company employees stand ready to de-energize or make safe those situations involving electric facilities. They have the know-how to decide what needs to be done and they have the tools to do it. These employees are available 24 hours every day, and two-way radios provide instant communication.

Firefighters that arrive at the scene of an emergency before electric company employees must know how to deal with the potential hazards of energized facilities. In addition, some knowledge is needed to avoid injury from energized facilities. In addition, some knowledge is needed to avoid injury from energized facilities in the vicinity of the firefighting operation.



REQUEST ELECTRIC COMPANY ASSISTANCE THROUGH YOUR DISPATCHER. OG&E HAS DIRECT PHONE LINES FROM THE FIRE DEPARTMENT TO THEIR SERVICE DESK.

ELECTRICITYElectricity (noun) 1. The flow of electric charge through a conductor placed between two objects having a difference in voltage. There you have a dictionary-style definition. Electricity is the flow of electric charge through a light bulb element (“a conductor”) placed between an energized wire and a grounded wire. Electricity is also the flow of electrical charge - lightning - through air (“a conductor) placed between a charged thundercloud and the earth's ground. Electricity is also the flow of electric charge through a man (“a conductor”) placed between an energized object and ground.

CAUTION #1 - NEVER MAKE DIRECT CONTACT WITH ANY ENERGIZED OBJECT.

What is energized? Electricity, whether from a powerline or from a thundercloud, is always trying to get to the earth, which is at ground voltage - also called zero voltage. Voltage is a measure of the “pressure” that pushes electric charge through a conductor. An object with any voltage above zero is called “energized”. Any energized object will produce a flow of electric charge through a conductor. An object with any voltage above zero is called “energized”. Any energized object will produce a flow of electric charge through a conductor placed between it and the earth or any other object at ground voltage, such as a grounded wire. Since nearly all common materials, including the human body, are conductors to some extent, the only way to keep the electricity where it belongs is to place some sort of insulator (non-conductor) between the energized object and the earth. Bare wires are supported on utility poles by such insulators.

Beware of Low VoltageYou can get just as “shocked” from your 120-volt house current as you can from a 500,000-volt powerline! In fact, a high voltage shock, because of the clamping action it has on the heart (cardiac arrest), may prevent the deadly irregular beating of the heart (fibrillation) often associated with lower-voltage shocks. Cardiac-arrest victims often respond readily to artificial respiration and external heart massage; whereas a fibrillation victim may only respond to an electrical defibrillator device. Also with the lower-voltage shock, instead of enough current to knock you out, you may get just enough to set your muscles so you can't let go.

CAUTION #2 - STAY CLEAR OF VICINITY OF ANY FAULTY ENERGIZED OBJECT.

Beware of SparkingYou can be injured without touching an energized object. When an energized object is sparking, it emits excessive heat and ultraviolet rays. Such sparking occurs while trying to interrupt the flow of electric charge, such as when an energized wire is cut or when a fallen energized wire is lifted away from the earth. The electrical charge tries to maintain its flow through the air - this results in a flash, an electric arc. The excessive heat from such a flash can burn human flesh several feet away.

Protect the EyesThe heat of an electric arc has been known to fuse contact lenses to the cornea of a man's eyes. Ultraviolet rays emitted from an electric flash may also damage unprotected eyes. Eye injuries may not be immediately apparent; there may be no noticeable eye irritation for several hours after exposure. If your eyes are exposed to an electric arc, consult a doctor for proper treatment without delay.

CAUTION #3 - BE ALERT IN VICINITY OF ANY ENERGIZED OBJECT.

WATCH THE WIRESWe have already emphasized the danger from contacting an energized object, or even getting in the vicinity of a faulty energized object, such as a fallen wire. It is just as important to be cautious in the vicinity of energized facilities that are operating properly. Most firefighting is performing without de-energizing all electric facilities in the vicinity. In many cases, it is even advantageous to leave power on as long as possible.* However, all firefighters must continuously be alert. Don't let the quiet, “harmless” appearance lull you into a false sense of security.



Never allow anyone on the ground to touch a rescue ladder while ladder is being maneuvered in vicinity of overhead wires. If the ladder of a rescue ladder should contact an overhead wire while being maneuvered, a firefighter who is entirely on the rescue ladder may be in a relatively safe position, (like a bird on a wire). But, there may be some hazardous sparking, (see CAUTION #2) or the wire may break and fall, or electricity may flow through anyone who simultaneously touches both the rescue ladder and the ground. The operator should immediately attempt to swing the ladder clear - everyone in the area must be at a safe distance, in case the wire breaks as the ladder moves away. If the ladder remains in contact with the wire, the entire rescue ladder may be dangerously energized. There is no completely effective way to ground a rescue ladder - even with metal outriggers in firm contact with the earth, a human body may provide an easier path for electricity to reach the ground. Keep everyone away until an electric company employee arrives and clears the contact or de-energizes the wire.Beware of Covered WiresMany overhead wires are covered, but that covering is often designed to protect the wire from the weather or tree contact, not to protect you from the wire. Never consider a covered wire any safer than a bare wire. Remember, most wires on utility poles are bare, even though they may appear to be covered when viewed from the ground.Beware of “Telephone” CablesTelephone cables are rarely dangerous when accidentally contacted. But, are you so sure you can tell the difference between telephone cables and electric power cables, that you'd stake your life on it - and the lives of others? Although higher voltage facilities are generally installed higher up on utility poles, this is not always true, electric power cables operating at 34,000 volts maybe attached below telephone cables on the same pole. And a fallen telephone cable may be contacting a powerline!

NEVER REST LADDERS ON WIRES OR ON ANY OTHER ELECTRIC EQUIPMENT!NEVER DRAG HOSES OVER WIRES!

NEVER COME TOO CLOSE TO WIRES - BRUSHING AGAINST ONE CAN BE FATAL!NO ENCORES, PLEASEYou may have some experience where you were able to contact energized facilities without incident. But, just because you “got away with it” before doesn't guarantee you will get away with it again. Remember, higher voltage facilities have much greater “pressure” behind the electricity. Something you “got away with” on 120-volt facilities can bring disaster if attempted on 34,000-volt facilities. And since normal water is a conductor of electricity, even slightly damp objects become much more hazardous.ELECTRIC WIRE HAZARDSCAUTION #4 - ASSUME EVERY FALLEN WIRE IS ENERGIZED AND DANGEROUSWire on GroundSome fallen wires snap and twist - bursting warning sparks. Others lie quietly - no sparks, no warning rattles like a snake. Both types are equally deadly. It is impossible to determine from the appearance of a wire whether or not it is energized. Also, automatic switching equipment may re-energize fallen wires. Always stay clear and keep everyone else clear until an electric company employee arrives and clears the wire or de-energizes it.Wire on ObjectIf a wire is in contact with any object, fence, tree, car, or person - that object in turn may be energized and deadly. Keep yourself and others away from metal highway dividers and metal fences that may be in contact with fallen wires. A fallen wire draped over such dividers and fences can energize them for their entire length.Wire on VehicleIf anyone is in a vehicle that is in contact with a wire, the safest thing he can do is stay inside. If possible, he should drive the vehicle away from the contact. If the vehicle is on fire, tell the victim to jump free with both hands and feet clear of the vehicle before reaching the ground. At no time can the person simultaneously touch both the vehicle and the ground or any other object that is touching the ground, as it will result in a path for the electricity to flow to the ground. Never board a vehicle that may be energized.



Whenever a wire on a vehicle may be energized, a spray or fog nozzle should be used to direct water onto the burning vehicle. The water stream should be kept at least six (6) feet from the vehicle.

CAUTION #5 - NEVER CUT WIRES EXCEPT TO PROTECT LIFE

And even then, only thoroughly trained persons, such as electric company employees, using approved procedures and equipment can cut wires. Otherwise, cutting wires can create more hazards than leaving them alone. When taut wires are cut, the change in tension may cause utility poles to fall or wires to slack off and sag to the ground some distance from where the wires are cut. Wire which retains some of its original “reel-curl” may coil up when cut and get out of control with resultant hazards.

CUTTING SERVICE WIRESWhen protection of life requires de-energizing a building, cutting service wires should be considered only when it is not practicable to remove fuses, open circuit breakers, open the main switch, or wait for an electric company representative. Specialized equipment must be used to cut each wire individually and then bend each one back, to prevent short-circuiting the wires together. All wires must be cut. Never assume that one wire is a ground wire and is therefore safe. Even a “ground” wire can be contacting an energized wire at some unseen location. If the service wires can be cut on the supply side of where they connect to the building's wires, it will be possible to restore the service more quickly when required. However, far more important, service wires should always be cut on the building side of where they are first attached to the building - this avoids having wires fall on the ground.

Take Care after CuttingCutting a wire at one place does not necessarily ensure that the wire on either side of the cut is de-energized because:1. Wires are frequently energized from both directions.

2. Wires may be in accidental contact with other energized wires.

3. Wires may be energized from a privately-owned generator within a building.

RESCUE OF SHOCK VICTIMSCAUTION #6 - USE APPROVED PROCEDURES AND EQUIPMENT IF YOU MUST WORK NEAR

ENERGIZED FACILITIES.

This rule certainly applies whether or not there is any victim to be rescued. However, the presence of a victim requires you to be even more conscientious.

Notify the Electric CompanyIf you see no safe way of separating a victim from an energized object, request electric company assistance. Your first consideration must be your own protection, you cannot help by becoming a victim yourself.

Moving the VictimElectric company employees have specialized equipment* that they can use to drag a victim clear of electric equipment. They can use other specialized equipment* to keep the wire in contact with the ground while the victim is being dragged clear. This reduces the amount of electricity flowing through the victim and minimizes further injury from additional burns.

Moving the WireElectric company employees have specialized equipment* that they can use to remove a wire from a victim. They can control the wire to prevent it from recontacting the victim. Electric company employees will pull the wire toward themselves while walking away, rather than pushing and walking toward it, to reduce the danger to themselves in case the wire gets out of control. And again, they can use other specialized equipment* to keep the wire in contact with the ground while moving it. This reduces the amount of electricity flowing through the victim and minimizes further injury from additional burns.



Cutting the WireIf a victim is entangled with an electric wire, the wire on both sides of the victim must be cut to be certain that no source of electricity remains. Wires should only be cut by an individual who is thoroughly trained to cut wires safely and who uses specialized equipment.*First AidA victim who has been separated from energized electric facilities does not retain an electric charge. Therefore, there is no danger in handling the victim, administering first aid, or applying artificial respiration. Electric burns, even if insignificant on the surface, may involve serious destruction of tissues and must receive expert medical treatment as soon as possible.Rescuing PetsA fire company is the first organization considered by many persons in any emergency, and frequent calls are received to rescue cats or other pets. However, an electrically - inexperienced individual endangers his own life if he attempts to rescue an animal that has climbed a utility pole or gotten into any electric company facility. Forward pet rescue requests to the electric company.SPECIALIZED EQUIPMENTTo separate a victim from electric facilities, a rescuer must use tools that are rated for use on the voltage level involved. The tools must be clean and dry, and they must provide adequate distance between the rescuer and the energized facilities. Specially treated goggles that prevent eye damage from electric arcs should be worn. Such “specialized equipment” is routinely used by electric company employees. Any other equipment can be extremely hazardous if used in vicinity of energized electric facilities. In particular, the use of rubber gloves should be left to electric company employees who use them daily. Severe injury can result from using rubber gloves that have deteriorated - even a tiny pinhole is enough to permit a fatal charge to pass through to the wearer. Rubber gloves must be electrically tested periodically, and must be carefully stored and protected from damage, dirt, and excessive heat. Never stake your life on “borrowed” rubber gloves. And remember, your “running gear and rubber boots” are designed to protect you against getting wet, not against getting electrocuted!CONDUCTIVITY OF EXTINGUISHING AGENTSCAUTION #7 - AVOID USING HOSE STREAMS ON ENERGIZED FACILITIESWater Conducts ElectricityThe application of water on electric facilities by hand-held hoses may carry the electricity back to the nozzle. Tabularized “safe distances” can be misleading, since water conductivity and nozzle design vary widely. The National Board of Fire Underwriters' Special Interest Bulletin No. 91 advises that for 120-volt facilities there is no danger unless the nozzle is brought within a few inches. However, we urge firefighters to consider all electric facilities to be high voltage, because even low-voltage wires may inadvertently be crossed with high-voltage wires.Type of Hose Stream Recommended and Minimum Operating Distances

TYPE MINIMUM OPERATING DISTANCE VOLTAGESolid 40 feet up to 34 KV

Spray (or Fog) 6 feet up to 34 KV11 feet up to 220 KV

Farther Back if PossibleFire companies are most likely to be involved with electric facilities on utility poles, rather than on transmission towers. Pole mounted facilities generally have nominal voltages ranging from 120 volts up to 34,000 volts (34KV). The wires for the highest voltage in this range are generally mounted 30 feet or more above the ground. A solid stream directed from the street through these wires, onto a burning building, should be the recommended minimum distance of 40 feet from the wires.

Nevertheless, firefighters should always stand back as far as the range of the stream permits. Extreme caution should be exercised with hoses used from ladders. At least 40 feet of separation should be maintained to ensure a safe operation when using a solid water stream on electric facilities that may be energized.



Spray or Fog PreferredFor maximum safety to the firefighter when either intentional or unintentional application of water on energized facilities may occur, a spray or fog nozzle should be used.De-Energize When NecessaryNever direct water onto energized facilities closer than the recommended minimum operating distances listed on previous page. Never use a solid stream of water from the ground on electric transmission tower facilities energized above 34,000 volts (34KV). When required in such cases, the electric company will de-energize the facilities before firefighting commences.Beware of Run-Off WaterTake care not to damage uninvolved electric facilities nearby. A porcelain insulator supporting energized facilities may flashover (arc), and even explode, if hit by a straight stream (even spray or fog) directed onto it. Wires may swing together, short-circuit, and burn down if hit by the force of a straight stream.Other Extinguishing AgentsDry chemical and carbon dioxide are non-conductive and may be used around energized facilities. These may be used to extinguish a surface-type utility pole fire. Foam, soda acid, and the loaded-stream type are conductive and should not be used on fires around energized facilities.FIRES IN BUILDINGSCAUTION #8 - BE EQUALLY ALERT INDOORS AS OUTDOORS.

High-Voltage Installations600 volts to 13,000 volts or even higher do exist in many larger buildings - commercial, institutional, and industrial. Do not enter any transformer room or open any electric switch without advice of an authorized individual. Besides the obvious electric hazard, privately-owned transformers may be filled with flammable oil or with a non-flammable liquid such as Askarel. Some Askarel-filled equipment is not required to be isolated outdoors or in a fire resistant room, and therefore, may be located anywhere on the premises. The non-flammable liquid, while safe from a fire standpoint, may be caustic and may generate poisonous fumes. Call the plant electrician to identify specific hazards and to de-energize facilities as needed.Low-voltage installations, those below 600 volts, exist in practically every building a fire fighter may enter, and can be as dangerous as high-voltage facilities.Leave Power on as Long as PossibleThe power may be needed to operate pumps or other equipment that, if stopped, would cause additional damage to the building or to any materials being produced in it. Also, fire fighters may be aided by having lights available as well as having any elevators operating for firefighting and evacuation purposes. Once a fire company shuts off any power, the electric company may require the Fire Marshal's approval and an inspection certificate from an authorized Electrical Inspection Agency before turning the power back on. Nevertheless, whenever safe firefighting requires the power to be shut off, use whichever of the following actions is appropriate and necessary.1. REMOVE FUSES OR OPEN CIRCUIT BREAKERS to shut off the affected section.

2. OPEN MAIN SWITCH to shut off entire building when electric service is no longer useful. If you must stand in water or if the switch is wet, do not grasp the switch handle in the palm of your hand. Use dry equipment such as a piece of rope, pike pole, or handle of fire ax to open the switch. Then attach a warning tag indicating that the power has been intentionally shut off.

3. CUT WIRES ONLY TO PROTECT LIFE for example, when a fire fighter's life would be endangered by leaving a building energized, or when a victim must be rescued. However, cutting electric wires should only be considered when it is not practicable to remove fuses, open circuit breakers, open the main switch, or wait for an electric company representative.

4. PULL ELECTRIC METER ONLY AS A LAST RESORT and then only to protect life when no other method is practicable. Wear buttoned running coat, gloves, and face shield or goggles to protect against electric arcing.



HANDLING POWER LINE EMERGENCIES1. The Dispatch Center will use their discretion based on information received as to either sending a

company out of service or on the radio to a power line emergency.

2. The Dispatch Center will automatically give OG&E the information. The only time that it will be necessary for a company to radio the Dispatch Center for OG&E is in a dire emergency. If this is the situation, the Dispatch Center can request a priority in getting a trouble shooter to the scene.

3. OG&E, like the Oklahoma City Fire Department, is over taxed during a storm and cannot possibly give its normal fast service. When a company arrives on the scene the company officer must make a decision. Is the emergency such that they must remain out of service and stand by or can they be available for another response.

O/SUP-235 STATION LOG BOOK UPDATED 1/1/2008

The station logbook’s intent is to be used as a daily record of station manpower and activities. The benefits of a daily journal of station activities allow for a historical review that can be utilized to retrieve data for purposes of information dissemination between shifts and cataloging emergency and non-emergency functions of the particular station.

All entries into the station logbook should be made in ink, legible and in summary form. Typically the ink used for the logbook should correspond with the shift working that day. (i.e. the “Red” shift uses red ink, the “Blue” shift uses blue ink, and the “Green” shift uses green ink.)

FORMAT

HeaderAt the beginning of each shift the day of the week, the current date and shift should be the “Header” of the shifts activities. If subsequent pages are needed to continue the shifts entries, a “Header” entry like that used at the beginning of the shift should be placed at the top of additional pages. Example: “Friday, January 07, 2005 “B”-shift

Roll CallThe next entry should show what personnel are working at the station that day and to which apparatus they are assigned. This entry should match the entry made into the roster.

Along with the daily roster, an entry should be made about which personnel are not at the station and the reason they are absent.

Example: Engine 1 Rescue Ladder 1Maj. Doe Maj. SooLt. Rea Cpl. LeeCpl. Mee Cpl. Daa (loaned from station 5)Cpl. Faa

Absent/Cause: Lt. Snaggletoe to Training for EMT-Refresher, Cpl. Hopeful vac-full.



Daily Time LineThe entries placed into the book should show the time the entry was made. Appropriate entries into the logbook include:

All station audio tests Rig radio tests Daily apparatus check results All visitors’ arrival times, purpose of visit, and departure time Station clean up and daily station duties Any work orders filled out concerning apparatus or station Any official information from the District Officers Any time an apparatus leaves or returns to the station Circuit tests Any other information the station officer deems appropriate

Example:0700 Station Audio test- okay0700 Drivers checked apparatus- “All apparatus okay” 0705 Rig Radio Test- okay0730 Daily station clean up 0800 P.E. began0811 Uniform Company at station delivering towels0817 Uniform Company left station0900 E-55 on the radio to the store0945 E-55 @ station1100 601 at the station: delivered paychecks, new Ad/99 placed in SOP

manual1130 601 left station1300 Work order “9999” sent in to building maintenance for leaking

faucet in Majors office

Emergency Call EntriesWhenever an apparatus is dispatched to an emergency it should be logged. The address of the call, the nature of the call and the incident number should be noted in the entry.

Medical CallsDue to privacy laws, the name of the patient or any other specific medical information about the patient should not be entered into the logbook.

Fire Alarm EntriesThe address of the incident, incident number, initial assignment and all equipment used should be logged.



Example:0700 Station Audio test- okay0700 Drivers checked apparatus- “All apparatus okay” 0705 Rig Radio Test- okay0730 Daily station clean up 0800 P.E. began0811 Uniform Company at station delivering towels0817 Uniform Company left station0900 E-55 on the radio to the store0945 E-55 @ station1100 601 at the station: delivered paychecks, new Ad/99 placed in SOP



(0001234)1315

E-55, RL-55 to 100 N. Walker on a commercial fire alarm.

1700 E-55, RL-55 @ station. E-55 assigned to fire attack, used 4/ SCBA, 3/Flashlights, 300 ft. of 4” hose, 2- 1” ¾ preconnects, 1- pickhead axe, 2- pikepolesRL-55 assigned to ventilation, used, 2- PPV fans, 2- pike poles, 1-chainsaw, 2-light cords

1730 All tools from fire alarm accounted for, cleaned and refueled.(0001235)1

800E-55 to N. Pole Dr. on difficulty breathing.

1845 E-55 @ station. 1 pt. Transported to St. Anthony’s non-emergency by EMSA 44.

Correcting Mistakes and Late EntriesOccasionally mistakes are made while making entries into the logbook and these errors need to be corrected. If a mistake is made, simply mark a single line through the incorrect entry and initial the strike through.

When it is discovered that an entry was not entered into the book an entry should be made on the next available line in the book. In the left margin, “Late Entry” should be written before the time of the event.

Example:0900 E-55 on the radio to the store0945 E-55 @ station1100 601 at the station: delivered paychecks, new Ad/99 placed in SOP



(Late Entry) Air shop at station to deliver 02 bottles for station cascade. 1030



Verification of EntriesAt the conclusion of each shift the station officer shall sign under the last entry, verifying all entries to be appropriate and complete.

“Friday, January 07, 2005 “B”-shiftRoll Call Engine-55 Rescue Ladder-55

Maj. Doe Maj. Soo Lt. Rea Cpl. Lee Cpl. Mee Cpl. Daa (loaned from St. 60) Cpl. Faa

Absent/Cause

Lt. Snaggletoe to training for EMT-Refresher, Cpl. Hopeful vac-full

Watch Cpl. Mee

0700 Drivers checked apparatus- “All apparatus okay” 0700 Station Audio test- okay0705 Rig Radio Test- okay0730 Daily station clean up 0800 P.E. began0811 Uniform Company at station delivering towels0817 Uniform Company left station0900 E-55 on the radio to the store0945 E-55 @ station1100 601 at the station: delivered paychecks, new Ad/99 placed in SOP

manual1130 601 left station1300 Work order “9999” sent in to building maintenance for leaking faucet in

Majors office(0001234)13

15E-55, RL-55 to 100 N. Walker on a commercial fire alarm.

1700 E-55, RL-55 @ station. E-55 assigned to fire attack, used 4/ SCBA, 3/Flashlights, 300 ft. of 4” hose, 2- 1” ¾ preconnects, 1- pickhead axe, 2- pikepolesRL-55 assigned to ventilation, used, 2- PPV fans, 2- pike poles, 1-chainsaw, 2-light cords

1730 All tools from fire alarm accounted for, cleaned and refueled.(0001235)18

00E-55 to N. Pole Dr. on difficulty breathing.

1845 E-55 @ station 1 pt Transported to St. Anthony’s non-emergency by EMSA 44

Late Entry 125 @ station to deliver fuel (725 gallons of diesel) (300 gallons of Unlead)

10300600 Audio test- okay

Major Doalata Doo



O/SUP-236 APPARATUS BACKING AND HAND SIGNAL MANUAL UPDATED 1/1/2012

RESCUE LADDER HAND SIGNALSIn order to facilitate aerial operations on the fire ground and other emergency, as well as non-emergency situations, it is suggested that our department incorporate a method of communication between the apparatus aerial operator and the guide man directing him to the target location. Many times voice communication is impractical because of noise, distance and radio traffic. It is for this reason that the following hand signals are suggested as an adjunct to voice communication. The hand signals suggested are familiar to many already as standard for crane operations. Six new signals were developed for directing movement. They were designed to prevent confusion with boom operations.

All lateral movements should be made with the arm extended to the side of which motion is desired, whether the flagman is facing the operator or the objective. The same is true for nozzle movements.

MOVE AERIAL LEFT RAISE AERIAL EXTEND THE LADDER

STOP ALLMOVEMENT

MOVE AERIAL RIGHT LOWER AERIAL RETRACT THE LADDER

MOVE NOZZLE LEFT OPEN STREAM (FOG) RAISE THE NOZZLE

MOVE NOZZLE RIGHT STRAIGHTEN THE STREAM LOWER THE NOZZLE



APPARATUS BACKING PROCEDURESDrivers of apparatus will not back the apparatus until at least two employees, designated as flag persons, can assist with the backing maneuver.

The flag person in the driver’s side mirror will be the backer using hand signals to guide the driver. The driver and flag persons should look at the following areas before backing the apparatus:

where they will be backing overhead obstructions

under the apparatus traffic

The Officer may use hand signals to assist the driver at the front of the apparatus when verbal communication is not possible.

The officer-in-charge of an apparatus will be equally responsible for an accident involving backing when the officer remains in the apparatus.

The officer will be positioned at the front of the apparatus driver’s window, or at the front right side of the apparatus, the swing of the apparatus will dictate where he should be positioned.

The driver side window down sufficient enough to hear any audible commands from Officer. The officer will watch the sweep of the apparatus and have a visual of the backer positioned at the back.

If at any time, the backing procedure must halt, the driver can be notified by hand signal of the backer and or voice communication from the officer positioned outside the window.



Apparatus with four personnel shall have two personnel at the back of the rig and the officer at the front of the rig where needed. When backing is done at night, the flag persons should give the backing signals with a flashlight, and wear a reflective traffic vest.

When backing an apparatus to or near a barrier (fence, parked vehicle, overhead door, etc.), the flag person shall signal for the driver to stop when any part of the apparatus is within 3 feet of the obstruction or barrier. The apparatus driver shall immediately stop if they lose site of the flagman. The Driver will immediately stop and not proceed if the signal to stop is communicated.

Employees will wear the reflective traffic safety vest to improve their visibility to others when backing apparatus on a roadway, directing traffic, or working on or beside a highway. This includes backing into a station during the day or night. You should have your safety vest and or bunker coat on.

Exceptions to the policy:1. When a piece of fire apparatus has only one firefighter assigned, i.e., brush pumper, tank pumper,

tanker, or Air One, and there are no additional fire department personnel immediately available to use as a flag person. The operator will use extreme caution while backing the apparatus.

2. If the apparatus needs to be moved during an emergency, and there are no fire department employees immediately available to use as a flag person, the driver must use extreme caution while backing the apparatus.

3. Employees driving vehicles not assigned to fire stations must check the clearance around the vehicle and use caution when backing.

4. Vehicles with backup cameras should be included as part of their visual when backing. This gives the driver another tool making contact with the backer.

HAND SIGNALS FOR BACKING VEHICLES

START BACKING STOP

TURN RIGHT TURN LEFT



DAYLIGHT HAND SIGNALSTo be used only in daylight and not given with flashlights and lanterns after darkness.

Exception to the above rule: Danger signal may be given after darkness with flashlights or lanterns.

A. Persons giving signals be sure to be in good vision of person receiving signal.

B. Be sure to have their attention, before giving the signal.

C. Give signal until they return signal back in recognition.

D. All signals are given right-handed.

Note: Person receiving signal, MUST WITHOUT FAIL, return the recognition signal, when they understand it

TURN WATER ON TURN WATER OFF RECOGNITION

RAISE YOUR PUMP PRESSURE

LOWER YOUR PUMP PRESSURE

RETURN TO STATION

HOOK UP AND PUMP LAY ONE LINE LAY TWO LINES



BREAK AND ROLL HOSE SLOW DOWN-COME ON IN BUT DON’T LAY OUT

DANGER!! STOP WHERE YOU ARE

O/SUP-237 STRUCTURE FIRE GUIDELINES UPDATED 7/5/2017

The purpose of these guidelines is to provide a consistent approach to structural firefighting strategies and tactics. These concepts are written as guidelines to provide fire officers the ability to adjust tactics to a specific emergency. These guidelines are in no way intended to replace one of the most important assets on the fire ground, the thinking fire officer. Officers are allowed to deviate from the guidelines when conditions or situations warrant and should immediately notify the Battalion ChiefDistrict Officer or Incident Commander of their actions.

EXPECTATIONS All firefighters should be familiar with the tactical guidelines. Company officers should understand all company assignments and how each unit works within the larger fire ground picture. All personnel should know the guidelines well enough, so that when they have to deviate from the guidelines, they realize what the impact of their actions will have on other operating companies, and communicate accordingly.

RESPONSIBILITYFirst Arriving Company Officer Perform an on-scene report upon arrival based on

current conditions. Establish command of the incident. Complete a 360 building assessment. Develop a mental Incident Action Plan (IAP) to

determine the initial operational mode. Transmit the 360 report over the radio to all fire

ground personnel, identifying location and extent of the fire, all pertinent hazards, and obstacles.

Take initial actions consistent with incident priorities and initiate the IAP.

NOTE: Mode of operation should consider the fastest application of water. (See O/SUP-302)



Later Arriving Company Officers Perform the appropriate IMS role (e.g. Incident Commander, Operations, Division/Group Supervisor,

Staging Manager, etc.).

Working within the incident’s operational mode.

Complete tasks consistent with the incident priorities.

Maintain company integrity.

Provide status reports to the IC.

Chief Officers Perform the appropriate IMS role (e.g., IC, Operations Section Chief, Branch Director, Division/Group

Supervisor, Incident Safety Officer, or Agency Representative).

The Incident Commander (IC) is responsible for overall management of the incident, identification of objectives, communicating the current operational mode, and providing status reports over the radio to Fire Dispatch and to all companies on scene and enroute.

The Incident Safety Officer (ISO) is responsible for identifying and evaluating hazards, knowing the current operational mode, and advising the IC in the area of personnel safety. The Safety Officer has the authority to alter, suspend, or terminate any unsafe activity.

Remember, any life safety issue should be addressed and communicated over the radio immediately by any OKCFD member at any time during the incident.

INCIDENT PRIORITIESIncident priorities are determined using information from the size-up. The objectives of the incident are determined by evaluating risk versus gain while viewing the fire from as many sides as possible. A 360 building assessment is used to determine the location and extent of the fire, immediate and potential rescue problems, building construction, and other hazards (i.e. electrical, exposures, structural compromise, and access). The incident priorities on a structure fire are:

1. Life safety

2. Incident stabilization

3. Property/environmental protection and conservation

4. Safety of all personnel assigned to the incident

OPERATIONAL MODESAfter identifying the objectives supporting the incident priorities, the operational mode is selected for the Incident. The IC identifies the proper mode through the analysis of information gathered during the size up process. The IC shall communicate the current operational mode.



ASSESSING THE FIRE AND LIMITING FIRE GROWTHSize-UpUpon arrival, the first arriving officer/IC is responsible for providing the initial radio size-up report (On-Scene Report and 360 Report) and declares the initial operational mode.

On-Scene report Unit number and Location Conditions present on arrival

Example: "Engine 3 is on the scene of a one story commercial building with fire showing from multiple openings threatening exposures to the Bravo side. Engine 3 is establishing “Street Name” Command, this will be an Offensive fire, starting with a transitional attack on the Bravo side.”

Numerical floor height and type of occupancy, e.g., two story commercial. Special instructions if needed (e.g., exposures, location of fire within stated

structure, operational mode). Initial actions to be taken for control of the IncidentThe first-arriving officer/IC is responsible for conducting a 360 building assessment of the structure involved and report findings over the radio. If the first arriving officer/IC is unable to perform a 360, announce it over the radio and assign another company to complete. This notifies additional arriving resources that a 360 assessment will still need to be completed for this incident.

Change Operational Mode as NeededContinually assess fire conditions and structural stability to determine if a change to the operational mode is required. All operational modes and fire attack changes shall be announced over the command and tactical channels. If the Mode changes from an Offensive attack to a Defensive attack, a PAR will be obtained by the IC (See O/SUP-229).

Locate the FireThe location and extent of the fire in the building must be determined. Officers shall use Thermal Imaging Camera and all means available to make this determination. The location of the fire and current conditions will dictate the best location to attack the fire. An initial ceiling temperature will be given utilizing the Thermal Imaging Camera when advancing a hand line for Interior Operations.

Identify the Flow PathIdentify the presence and/or location of the flow paths. Effort should be taken to control ventilation and the flow path to protect potential building occupants and limit fire growth. If a flow path is visible, consider closing doors and windows to limit air flow. Before closing, firefighters should rescue victims readily accessible via doors/windows.

Fire Flow RequirementsEnsure an adequate water supply to support fire flow. If the first arriving company is an engine company and enroute information indicates a working fire situation, an initial water supply will be provided.

Cool the Space from the Most Effective LocationWith the information obtained during the size up, locate the fire and identify the flow path (e.g. 360 building assessment) to determine if high heat conditions exist inside the structure. When high heat conditions are present, determine the most effective way to apply water to the superheated space, or directly on the fire. The primary goal in this step is to reduce the thermal threat to occupants and firefighters as soon as reasonably possible. In some cases, the fire environment is cooled most effectively by directing a solid hose stream from an exterior position, just prior to entry.

Extinguish the FireOnce the thermal threats have been controlled, the fire should be extinguished in the most direct manner possible. Multiple lines shall be deployed for larger one-story structures and all multiple story structures. The potential for the thermal threat to return should be recognized. The IC shall ensure that a RIT is in place for interior fire attack operations.

TACTICAL ACTIONS OF OPPORTUNITY ***MAY OCCUR AT ANY TIME***



RescueThe potential for rescue should be considered at all times. Firefighters should be prepared to search for, rescue and provide care for occupants with the resources and personnel on scene. A victim survivability assessment must be made prior to initiating search and rescue operations. While protection of life is the highest incident priority, consideration should be given to suppression of the fire (e.g., exterior water application to cool the fire, rapid interior fire attack to extinguish the fire, flow path control to limit fire growth) to improve survivability of victims and firefighters. Preventing the fire from getting larger can extend the survivability time for rescue.

Exposure ProtectionWhen given the assignment of protecting exposures, the officer assigned shall prevent the fire from extending to uninvolved buildings, separate units or other compartments within the building of origin. Structures threatened near a fire building (exterior exposure) and compartmentalized spaces within the fire building not yet involved (interior exposures) must be protected to minimize the danger to occupants as well as to contain the fire. Personnel should consider the following: Assess all sides of the involved structure.

Assess the structural integrity of the fire building and establish Collapse Zones as needed to determine the proper and safe location for hand lines and/or master stream operations.

Assess the potential threat to surrounding structures based on the current and expected fire behavior.

Coordinate tactical operations with fire attack and ventilation group.

Request needed resources.

Secure needed water supply.

Coordinated VentilationPersonnel shall manage and control the openings to the structure to limit the fires access to oxygen while removing smoke, fire and steam. All ventilation must be coordinated with suppression activities. Uncontrolled ventilation allows additional oxygen into the structure which may result in a rapid increase in the size and intensity of the fire. When given the assignment of ventilation, the Officer in Charge (OIC) shall:

Perform a ventilation size-up to determine ventilation requirements.

Determine the needs of fire attack using face-to-face or radio communication.

Communicate clearly and coordinate all ventilation operations with the Division/Group/Unit assigned to fire attack.

Select and implement coordinated ventilation techniques to improve interior conditions for potential victims and interior crews and limit fire growth.

Continually assess the effectiveness of coordinated ventilation operations through observation and information received from division and group supervisors (e.g., fire attack and search)

Provide periodic status reports to the IC.



UtilitiesElectrical, natural or liquid petroleum gas, and water can hinder suppression or rescue efforts and threaten firefighters. Controlling utilities not only prevents further property damage, but also provides safer conditions for personnel. During a working structure fire, utilities shall be shut off. The utility company representatives shall be requested to respond when services have been disrupted.

SalvageSalvage is the protection of buildings and their contents from unnecessary damage due to water, smoke, heat, and other elements. Salvage should be a concern during every phase of the incident, from forcible entry to overhaul. Firefighters should use compartmentalization to control fire spread and smoke whenever possible.

OverhaulOverhaul involves searching for and extinguishing any hidden, remaining fire and making sure that the structure, its contents and the fire area are in a safe condition. It also encompasses fire cause determination and recognizing and preserving any evidence of arson. The use of electric positive pressure fans during overhaul must be used to help reduce CO levels. CO monitors from district officer vehicles and/or Hazmat unit should be used to monitor levels.

Occupant SupportThe IC shall be responsible for assessing the needs of any occupants at emergency incidents and assign a CSL to assist with gathering incident information and providing assistance to the occupant. If necessary, the IC may request additional resources as needed.

RESOURCE ALLOCATIONThe management of resources at structure fires will adhere to the Incident Management System. Effective use of on-scene resources is required to address the incident priorities (LIPS). The IC shall consider assigning resources for the following tasks:

Investigation of potential risks/problems on the fire ground.

Establishing the Incident Command System.

Rescue/fire attack/property conservation.

Establishing Rapid Intervention Team (RIT).

Ensuring adequate water supply to support fire flow.

Coordinated ventilation.

Control utilities.

Supporting fixed fire protection systems.

Assign an Incident Safety Officer.

RESOURCE ASSIGNMENTSResources responding to a structure fire shall adhere to the guidelines identified in Assessing the Fire and Limiting Fire Growth section and Tactical Actions of Opportunity section of these Guidelines. On all structure fires, the first arriving company Officer will transmit a radio size-up report and establish command of the incident. A 360 degree building assessment shall be completed on all working structure fires. All companies shall support the actions of assessing the fire, limiting fire growth and tactical actions of opportunity as assigned. The following are additional responsibilities of resources responding on a first-alarm working structure fire.



First-arriving Engine Company Initiates an uninterrupted water supply if enroute information indicates a

working fire situation.

Positions engine past structure or stop short to maintain access for additional arriving apparatus as well as Deck Gun operations as conditions dictate.

Ensure an adequate water supply to support the anticipated fire flow.

A second supply line should be considered on any working fire where the following conditions exist: 1. Commercial structure

2. Large volume of fire

3. Exposure problems

4. Low water pressure from initial supply line

First-arriving Rescue LadderSpot the rig in the position that will be best suited for the present conditions and ensure the use of the Aerial device if needed unless specifically instructed to a spot by the I.C.

First-arriving Battalion ChiefDistrict Officer Establish or Assume the duties of IC.

Ensure the tasks are performed to limit fire growth by assessing the fire.

Ensure tactical actions of opportunities are performed.

Ensure adequate water supply to support fire flow.

Develops and evaluates the IAP and adjust as necessary.

Assign a Safety Officer

Request additional resources/agencies as needed (additional alarms, utility companies, mutual aid, etc.).

Establish a rehab area

Later-arriving Chief Officers are assigned as Incident Safety Officer, Division/Group Supervisors, or Operations Chief based on size and need of the incident. The initial IC/BC may become the Deputy IC upon arrival and transfer of command to the next arriving and higher ranking Chief Officer.

Later-arriving Engine Companies Monitor the radio communications for incident information and current conditions.

Announce Level 1 staging location (“Engine 2 is Level 1 staged by the plug at …”).

Be prepared to lay additional supply lines, pump the hydrassist, etc.

Additional CompaniesAdditional companies will go to Level 1 staging and announce their location and available water supply. In most instances this location will be outside the Block of the incident address to expedite the possibility of: relocating to approach from another direction, the need for additional water supply to be brought to the scene, leaving the street open for access and egress to and from the scene, etc.



DEFINITIONS360 REPORTA report given over the radio after the 360 degree view of the building has been completed. The report should communicate to all personnel on the fire ground all pertinent information about any hazards, obstacles, location and extent of the fire, etc.

DEFENSIVE MODEOperational mode initiated when fire conditions prevent an interior attack. Attack lines and all personnel operate outside the collapse zone using defensive tactics.

DOOR CONTROLThe process of ensuring the entrance door/doors providing access to the fire area is controlled and closed as much as possible after teams enter the structure. Steps must be taken to prevent the door from locking behind the entering members. By controlling the door, the firefighter controls the flow path of fire conditions from the high pressure of the fire area towards the low-pressure area on the other side of the door. Door control also limits fire development by controlling the flow path of fresh air at the lower level of the open door towards the seat of the fire.

FIRE CONFINEMENTThose actions taken to locate and hold a fire to a given area of present or anticipated involvement by preventing the spread of a fire into any uninvolved area.

FIRE EXTINGUISHMENTThose actions following fire confinement to extinguish a fire by removing the basic elements of the fire triangle; fuel, air supply or heat.

FIRE FLOWThe rate of water flow needed to control a fire. Calculated as {(L X W)/3} multiplied by the % of involvement (See Bluebook 2- Hydraulics).

FLASHOVERThe near-simultaneous ignition of most of the directly exposed combustible material in an enclosed area due to thermal radiation. This causes the fire to spread rapidly throughout the space, resulting in fire involvement of the entire compartment or enclosed space.

FLOW PATHThe movement of heat and fire gasses from the higher pressure within the fire area towards the lower pressure areas accessible via doors, window openings and roof structures. As the heated fire gasses are moving towards the low pressure areas, the energy of the fire is pulling in additional oxygen from the low pressure areas. Based on varying building design and the available ventilation openings (i.e., doors, windows, etc.), there may be several flow paths within a structure. Any operations conducted in the flow path will place members at significant risk due to the increased flow of fire, heat and fire gasses toward their position.

FLOW PATH CONTROLThe tactic of controlling or closing ventilation points, which will:

1. Limit additional oxygen into the space thereby limiting fire development, heat release rate and smoke production.

2. Control the movement of the heat and smoke conditions out of the fire area to the exterior and to other areas within the structure

FUEL LIMITED FIREA fire in which the heat release rate and fire growth are controlled by the characteristics of the fuel because adequate oxygen is available for combustion.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Combustible


FULLY-DEVELOPED STAGEThe stage of fire development which has reached its peak heat release rate within a compartment. This usually occurs after flashover, resulting in floor to ceiling burning within the compartment, creating heat conditions untenable for civilians and firefighters.

GROWTH STAGEThe stage of fire development when the heat release rate from an incipient fire has increased to the point where heat transferred from the fire and the combustion products are pyrolyzing adjacent fuel sources. The fire begins to spread across the ceiling of the fire compartment (rollover).

HEAT RELEASE RATEThe rate at which energy is generated by the burning of a fuel and oxygen mixture.

HORIZONTAL VENTILATIONThe opening or removal of windows or doors on any floor of a fire building which will become flow paths for fire conditions.

INCIDENT COMMANDERThis is the first or highest ranking officer or acting officer on the incident, who is responsible for command and control of the incident and establishing incident strategy.

IGNITION STAGEThe early stage of fire development where the fire’s progression is limited to a fuel source and the thermal hazard is localized to the area of the burning material.

INTERIOR FIRE ATTACKA systematic deployment of personnel advancing a charged hose line from the exterior of the structure to the area of involvement within the interior to complete fire extinguishment. Any interior fire attack should be coordinated with Ventilation.

INVESTIGATION MODEA thorough assessment or investigation into the nature of the problem, type and severity of the incident that provides the information needed to evaluate and decide on the operational mode.

LEGACY FIREFires that primarily consist of natural fiber contents such as wood, wools and cottons. These fires have a relatively low heat release rate when compared to hydrocarbon based products.

MODERN CONTENT FIREFires that involve hydrocarbon and synthetic based contents such as foam rubber, nylon, rayon and polypropylene. Modern fires have a relatively high heat release rate when compared to the natural fiber products found in legacy fires. Modern fires rapidly react to ventilation and the in-flow of additional oxygen.

OFFENSIVE MODEAn operational mode that takes direct action to mitigate the problem. Attack lines are operated within the collapse zone, most often an interior attack.

PYROLYSISThe process of breaking up a substance into other molecules as a result of heating; also known as thermal decomposition.

RESETTING THE FIREFirefighting operation where water is applied from an exterior position to the interior of a Room and Contents Fire to reduce the thermal threat and cool the environment just prior to initiating interior operations.



ROLLOVEROccurs in the growth stage when sufficient fuel, heat and oxygen are available to allow flame spread in the upper hot gas layer inside the compartment. When observed at the ceiling level, rollover shall be taken as an indicator that interior conditions are rapidly deteriorating and flashover may be imminent.

SMOKEThe combination of airborne solid particulates, liquid particulates and gasses emitted when a material undergoes pyrolysis or combustion. Smoke is a heated fuel source. Smoke is a toxic mixture that contains numerous poisonous gasses such as carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide and phosgene. SCBA MUST BE WORN WITH THE FACE PIECE DONNED ANYTIME CREWS ARE OPERATING IN THE SMOKE.

TENABILITYAn assessment on whether units can operate within the fire area based on the conditions encountered and the impact of these conditions to potential civilians and firefighters.

TRANSITIONAL ATTACKAn offensive fire attack initiated by an exterior solid or straight stream of water, into the fire compartment where the fire is located, in sufficient quantity to initiate cooling while transitioning into interior direct fire attack in coordination with ventilation operations. Transitional attack can transition from offensive to defensive or vice versa.

VENTILATIONThe controlled and coordinated removal of heat and smoke from a structure, replacing the escaping gasses with fresh air. This exchange is bi-directional with heat and smoke exhausting at the top and air flowing in towards the fire at the bottom. The fire will pull the additional air flow into the building towards the fire which can intensify the fire conditions. This exchange can occur by opening doors, windows or roof structures. Coordinated and controlled ventilation will facilitate quicker extinguishment and limit fire spread.

VENTILATION-INDUCED FLASHOVERA flashover initiated by the introduction of oxygen into a pre-heated, fuel rich (smoke filled), oxygen deficient area (conditions prevalently found in a Ventilation Limited fire).

VENTILATION PROFILEThe appearance of the fire building’s ventilation points showing the flow paths of heat and smoke out of the structure as well as any air movement into the structure. During the ventilation profile, assess the following:

1. Building construction, integrity, size and occupancy type. 2. Location of smoke or fire venting from the structure.3. The volume, velocity, density and color of the smoke venting from the structure to determine its

current phase and potential for fire growth.4. The direction and speed of the wind and its potential influence.5. VENTILATION LIMITED FIRE

A fire in which the heat release rate and fire growth are regulated by the available oxygen within the space.

TACTICAL VENTILATIONThe coordinated and controlled opening and/or closing of ventilation points in a structure to directly support interior operations.

VERTICAL VENTILATIONThe vertical venting of structures involving the opening of bulkhead doors, skylights, scuttles and roof cutting operations. These are methods of releasing smoke, heat and steam from inside the fire building.



O/SUP-301 ALMAND LIGHT TOWER / GENERATOR UPDATED 6/16/2016

ALMAND LIGHT TOWER/GENERATOR MAINTENANCECheck the water and oil before testing the generator. This maintenance will ensure the generator is ready for emergency use.

The coolant specified by the manufacturer is a 40% mix of antifreeze with water. That concentration should be maintained at one half of an inch from the top of the radiator. DO NOT ADD PLAIN WATER OR PURE ANTIFREEZE. MIX THEM TO 40% PRIOR TO ADDING TO THE RADIATOR.

The crankcase oil should be the 15W-40 supplied by the maintenance parts room, as it is specified for diesel engines. The oil level should appear on the dipstick between the marks. DO NOT OVERFILL. The crankcase oil needs to be changed at 100 hours for the first time, and then at 250 hour intervals, or annually.

WEEKLY TESTINGThe fluids should be checked weekly along with the cleanliness of the battery, and battery connectors. Start the generator weekly and run for one hour. If the generator is running and you get a ride, allow the generator to run until you return.

MONTHLY TESTINGThe first test of the month should also include turning on the tower lights. This will load the generator during the test. The light tower may be left down for the test. THE FUEL TANK HOLDS 50 GALLONS OF DIESEL, FOR 48 HOURS OR OF USE. FILL OUT A FUEL CARD WHEN THE GENERATOR IS REFUELED.

QUESTIONSContact the Maintenance Facility at 297-1300 if you have any questions about testing or operating the generator.

Connecting and Starting the Generator Connected to a Fire Station1. Park and level the generator using the tongue and rear jacks.

2. Connect the generator to the station ground rod.

3. Connect the power cable between the 50 AMP generator plug located on the rear panel of the generator and the receptacle located on the Fire Station.

4. Turn off all circuit breakers on the generator control panel.

5. Turn on the IGN switch, and then press the START ASSIST and the START buttons at the same time to start the generator.

6. Turn on the 50 AMP MAIN breaker located on the generator control panel. then move the safety switch, located on the outside back panel of the portable generator to the 50 AMP OUTLET position.

7. Inside the station, move the TRANSFER SWITCH handle from the Normal (OG&E) position to the center OFF position; turn off the EPANEL breakers, then complete the motion of the handle to the Generator position. Turn on the EPANEL breakers.



Stopping and Disconnecting1. Move the handle on the manual transfer switch located inside the Fire Station from the Generator

position to the center OFF position, turn off the EPANEL circuit breakers, then complete the motion of the handle to the Normal (OG&E) position. Turn the breaker back on the EPANEL.

2. Move the safety switch on the generator to the center or OFF position.3. Turn off the 50 AMP MAIN breaker on the generator control panel, and then turn off the IGN switch.

4. Disconnect, remove, and store the building cable inside the generator's side compartment. Disconnect and remove the ground rod or ground wire and store it inside the generator's side compartment.

5. Raise and store the rear leveling jack before moving the generator.OPERATING THE LIGHT TOWER ON THE PORTABLE GENERATORRaising the Light Tower1. Extend the outriggers and level the trailer with the outrigger, tongue, and rear jacks.

2. Remove the ground rod from the compartment, connect the wire to the wing nut on the generator and drive the ground rod into the earth.

3. Turn the lighting fixtures to point in the desired direction once the mast is raised.4. Rotate and pull the mast pin to release the mast support.

5. Turn the side crank clockwise to raise the mast to vertical.6. Loosen the knob at the bottom of the mast to allow the mast latch to drop into the strike plate and

then tighten the knob.7. Turn the mast crank clockwise to raise the light tower. Loosen the knob beside the crank to rotate

the light tower. Tighten the knob after rotation.Lowering the Light Tower1. Rotate the light tower until the crank hand le points to the trailer tongue.2. Turn the tower crank counter-clockwise to lower the lights to their lowest position.

3. Turn the side crank clockwise to tighten the mast cable, then loosen the knob and lift the mast latch in the raised position.

4. Turn the side crack counter-clockwise to lower the mast to the horizontal position. The mast may have to be guided into the mast support.

5. Rotate and push the mast pin to secure the mas t support.6. Remove the ground rod, raise and secure the jacks and outriggers before moving the generator.

Starting and Stopping the Generator1. Confirm all of the circuit breakers and switches on the control panel are in the off position.

2. Turn on the IGN switch, and then press the START ASSIST and the START buttons at the same time to start the generator.

3. After the generator starts, turn on the 50 AMP MAIN breaker located on the portable generator control panel and move the safety switch, located on the outside back panel, to the LIGHT TOWER and OUTLETS position for lighting or electrical outlet usage.

4. Turn on the selected breakers for the lights or the outlets.

5. Before stopping the generator, move the safety switch on the outside back panel to the OFF position, and only then turn off all circuit breakers, and last, turn OFF the IGN switch.

DAMAGE TO THE GENERATOR OR TO THE EQUIPMENT WILL OCCUR IF THE GENERATOR IS STARTED OR STOPPED WHILE OPERATING ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT.



O/SUP-302 NATIONAL INCIDENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (NIMS) UPDATED 7/5/2017

NATIONAL INCIDENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM OVERVIEWAll levels of government, the private sector, and non-governmental agencies must be prepared to prevent, protect against, respond to, and recover from a wide spectrum of major events and natural disasters that exceed the capabilities of any single entity. Threats from natural disasters and human-caused events, such as terrorism, require a unified and coordinated national approach to planning and to domestic incident management.

The Incident Command System (ICS) is not just a standardized organizational chart, but an entire management system. It is a standardized management tool for meeting the demands of small or large emergency or non-emergency situations. It represents "best practices," and has become the standard for the emergency management community. It may be used for planned events, natural disasters, and acts of terrorism. It is a key feature of the National Incident Management System (NIMS).

History of the Incident Command System (ICS)The Incident Command System (ICS) was developed in the 1970s following a series of catastrophic fires in California's urban interface. Property damage ran into the millions, and many people died or were injured. The personnel assigned to determine the causes of this disaster studied the case histories and discovered that response problems could rarely be attributed to lack of resources or failure of tactics. What were the lessons learned?

Surprisingly, studies found that response problems were far more likely to result from inadequate management than from any other single reason.

Weaknesses in incident management were often due to: Lack of accountability, including unclear chains of command and supervision. Poor communication due to both inefficient uses of available communications systems and

conflicting codes and terminology. Lack of an orderly, systematic planning process. No common, flexible, pre-designed management structure that enables commanders to delegate

responsibilities and manage workloads efficiently. No predefined methods to integrate interagency requirements into the management structure and

planning process effectively. A poorly managed incident response can be devastating to our economy and our health and safety. With so much at stake, we must effectively manage our response efforts. The Incident Command System, or ICS, allows us to do so. ICS is a proven management system based on successful business practices. This course introduces you to basic ICS concepts and terminology.

Designers of the system recognized early that ICS must be interdisciplinary and organizationally flexible to meet the following management challenges:

Meet the needs of incidents of any kind or size. Allow personnel from a variety of agencies to meld rapidly into a common management structure. Provide logistical and administrative support to operational staff. Be cost effective by avoiding duplication of efforts.

ICS consists of procedures for controlling personnel, facilities, equipment, and communications. It is a system designed to be used or applied from the time an incident occurs until the requirement for management and operations no longer exists.



Applications for the use of ICS include: Fire, both structural and wild-land. Natural disasters, such as tornadoes, floods, ice storms or earthquakes. Human and animal disease outbreaks. Search and rescue missions. Hazardous materials incidents. Criminal acts and crime scene investigations. Terrorist incidents, including the use of weapons of mass destruction. National Special Security Events, such as presidential visits or the Super Bowl. Other planned events, such as parades or demonstrations.

ICS may be used for small or large events. It can grow or shrink to meet the changing needs of an incident or event.

ICS FEATURESICS is based on proven management principles, which contribute to the strength and efficiency of the overall system.

ICS principles are implemented through a wide range of management features including the use of common terminology and clear text, and a modular organizational structure.

ICS emphasizes effective planning, including management by objectives and reliance on an Incident Action Plan.

ICS helps ensure full utilization of all incident resources by: Maintaining a manageable span of control.

Establishing pre-designated incident locations and facilities.

Implementing resource management practices.

Ensuring integrated communications.

Other features discussed in detail are: Common Terminology

Modular Organization

Management by Objectives

Reliance on an Incident Action Plan (IAP)

Chain of Command and Unity of Command

Unified Command

Information and Intelligence Management

Transfer of Command

Accountability

Mobilization



Common Terminology and Clear TextThe ability to communicate within the ICS is absolutely critical. An essential method for ensuring the ability to communicate is by using common terminology and clear text.

A critical part of an effective incident management system is for all communications to be in plain English. That is, use clear text. Do not use radio codes, agency-specific codes, or jargon. ICS establishes common terminology allowing diverse incident management and support entities to work together. Common terminology helps to define:

Organizational Functions: Major functions and functional units with incident management responsibilities are named and defined. Terminology for the organizational elements involved is standard and consistent.

Resource Descriptions: Major resources (personnel, facilities, and equipment/ supply items) are given common names and are “typed” or categorized by their capabilities. This helps to avoid confusion and to enhance interoperability.

Incident Facilities: Common terminology is used to designate incident facilities.

Position Titles: ICS management or supervisory positions are referred to by titles, such as Officer, Chief, Director, Supervisor, or Leader.

Modular OrganizationThe ICS organizational structure develops in a top-down, modular fashion that is based on the size and complexity of the incident, as well as the specifics of the hazard environment created by the incident. As incident complexity increases, the organization expands from the top down as functional responsibilities are delegated.

The ICS organizational structure is flexible. When needed, separate functional elements can be established and subdivided to enhance internal organizational management and external coordination. As the ICS organizational structure expands, the number of management positions also expands to adequately address the requirements of the incident. In ICS, only those functions or positions necessary for a particular incident will be filled.

Management by ObjectivesAll levels of a growing ICS organization must have a clear understanding of the functional actions required to manage the incident. Management by objectives is an approach used to communicate functional actions throughout the entire ICS organization. It can be accomplished through the incident action planning process, which includes the following steps:Step 1: Understand OKCFD policy and direction.

Step 2: Assess incident situation.

Step 3: Establish incident objectives.

Step 4: Select appropriate strategy or strategies to achieve objectives.

Step 5: Perform tactical direction (applying tactics appropriate to the strategy, assigning the right resources, and monitoring their performance).

Step 6: Provide necessary follow up (changing strategy or tactics, adding or subtracting resources, etc.).

Reliance on an Incident Action PlanIn ICS, considerable emphasis is placed on developing effective Incident Action Plans.

An Incident Action Plan (IAP) is an oral or written plan containing general objectives reflecting the overall strategy for managing an incident. An IAP includes the identification of operational resources and assignments and may include attachments that provide additional direction.



Every incident must have a verbal or written Incident Action Plan. The purpose of this plan is to provide all incident supervisory personnel with direction for actions to be implemented during the operational period identified in the plan.

Incident Action Plans include the measurable strategic operations to be achieved and are prepared around a timeframe called an Operational Period.

Incident Action Plans provide a coherent means of communicating the overall incident objectives in the context of both operational and support activities. The plan may be oral or written except for hazardous materials incidents, which require a written IAP.

At the simplest level, all Incident Action Plans must have four elements: What do we want to do? Who is responsible for doing it? How do we communicate with each other? What is the procedure if someone is injured?

Manageable Span of ControlAnother basic ICS feature concerns the supervisory structure of the organization.

Span of control pertains to the number of individuals or resources that one supervisor can manage effectively during emergency response incidents or special events. Maintaining an effective span of control is particularly important on incidents where safety and accountability are a top priority. Span of control is the key to effective and efficient incident management. The type of incident, nature of the task, hazards and safety factors, and distances between personnel and resources all influence span of control considerations.

Maintaining adequate span of control throughout the ICS organization is very important. Effective span of control on incidents may vary from three (3) to seven (7), and a ratio of one (1) supervisor to five (5) reporting elements is recommended. If the number of reporting elements falls outside of these ranges, expansion or consolidation of the organization may be necessary. There may be exceptions, usually in lower-risk assignments or where resources work in close proximity to each other.

Pre-designated Incident Locations and FacilitiesIncident activities may be accomplished from a variety of operational locations and support facilities. Facilities will be identified and established by the Incident Commander depending on the requirements and complexity of the incident or event.

It is important to know and understand the names and functions of the principal ICS facilities.

The Incident Command Post, or ICP, is the location from which the Incident Commander oversees all incident operations. There is generally only one ICP for each incident or event, but it may change locations during the event. Every incident or event must have some form of an Incident Command Post. The ICP may be located in a vehicle, trailer, tent, or within a building. The ICP will be positioned outside of the present and potential hazard zone but close enough to the incident to maintain command. The ICP will be designated by the name of the incident, e.g., Trail Creek ICP.

Staging Areas are temporary locations at an incident where personnel and equipment are kept while waiting for tactical assignments. The resources in the Staging Area are always in available status. Staging Areas should be located close enough to the incident for a timely response, but far enough away to be out of the immediate impact zone. There may be more than one Staging Area at an incident. Staging Areas can be collocated with the ICP, Bases, Camps, Helibases, or Helispots.

A Base is the location from which primary logistics and administrative functions are coordinated and administered. The Base may be located with the Incident Command Post. There is only one Base per incident, and it is designated by the incident name. The Base is established and managed by the Logistics Section. The resources in the Base are always out-of-service.



A Camp is the location where resources may be kept to support incident operations if a Base is not accessible to all resources. Camps are temporary locations within the general incident area, which are equipped and staffed to provide food, water, sleeping areas, and sanitary services. Geographic location or number designates camps. Multiple Camps may be used, but not all incidents will have Camps.

A Helibase is the location from which helicopter-centered air operations are conducted. Helibases are generally used on a more long-term basis and include such services as fueling and maintenance. The Helibase is usually designated by the name of the incident, e.g. Trail Creek Helibase.

Helispots are more temporary locations at the incident, where helicopters can safely land and take off. Multiple Helispots may be used.

Incident Facility Map SymbolsIn ICS, it is important to be able to identify the map symbols associated with the basic incident facilities. The map symbols used to represent each of the six basic ICS facilities are:

Incident Command Post

Staging Area Base Camp, Helibase,

and Helispot

On a map, the ICP location appears as a

green and white square.

On a map, the Staging Area appears as a circle

with an S in it.

On a map, the Base appears as a circle with

a B in it.

Resource ManagementICS resources can be factored into two categories:

Tactical Resources: Personnel and major items of equipment that are available or potentially available to the Operations function on assignment to incidents are called tactical resources.

Support Resources: All other resources required to support the incident. Food, communications equipment, tents, supplies, and fleet vehicles are examples of support resources.

Tactical resources are always classified as one of the following: Assigned: Assigned resources are working on an assignment under the direction of a

Supervisor. Available: Available resources are assembled, have been issued their equipment, and are ready

for immediate assignment. Out-Of-Service: Out-of-service resources are not ready for available or assigned status.

Maintaining an accurate and up-to-date picture of resource utilization is a critical component of resource management. Resource management includes processes for:

Categorizing resources. Ordering resources. Dispatching resources. Tracking resources. Recovering resources.



It also includes processes for reimbursement for resources, as appropriate.

Integrated CommunicationsThe use of a common communications plan is essential for ensuring that responders can communicate with one another during an incident. Communication equipment, procedures, and systems must operate across jurisdictions (inter-operability).

Developing an integrated voice and data communications system, including equipment, systems, and protocols, must occur prior to an incident.

Effective ICS communications include three elements: Modes: The “hardware” systems that transfer information.

Planning: Planning for the use of all available communications resources.

Networks: The procedures and processes for transferring information internally and externally.

In the Incident Command System: Chain of command means that there is an orderly line of authority within the ranks of the

organization, with lower levels subordinate to, and connected to, higher levels.

Unity of command means that every individual is accountable to only one designated supervisor to whom they report at the scene of an incident.

The principles clarify reporting relationships and eliminate the confusion caused by multiple, conflicting directives. Incident managers at all levels must be able to control the actions of all personnel under their supervision. These principles do not apply to the exchange of information. Although orders must flow through the chain of command, members of the organization may directly communicate with each other to ask for or share information.

The command function may be carried out in two ways: As a Single Command in which the Incident Commander will have complete responsibility for

incident management. A Single Command may be simple, involving an Incident Commander and single resources, or it may be a complex organizational structure with an Incident Management Team.

As a Unified Command in which responding agencies and/or jurisdictions with responsibility for the incident share incident management.

Unified CommandA Unified Command may be needed for incidents involving:

Multiple jurisdictions.

A single jurisdiction with multiple agencies sharing responsibility.

Multiple jurisdictions with multi-agency involvement.

If a Unified Command is needed, Incident Commanders representing agencies or jurisdictions that share responsibility for the incident, manage the response from a single Incident Command Post.

A Unified Command allows agencies with different legal, geographic, and functional authorities and responsibilities to work together effectively without affecting individual agency authority, responsibility, or accountability. Under a Unified Command, a single, coordinated Incident Action Plan will direct all activities. The Incident Commanders will supervise a single Command and General Staff organization and speak with one voice.



Transfer of CommandThe process of moving the responsibility for incident command from one Incident Commander to another is called transfer of command. Transfer of command may take place when:

A more qualified person assumes command. The incident situation changes over time, resulting in a legal requirement to change command. Changing command makes good sense, e.g., an Incident Management Team takes command of

an incident from a local jurisdictional unit due to increased incident complexity. There is normal turnover of personnel on long or extended incidents, i.e., to accommodate

work/rest requirements. The incident response is concluded and incident responsibility is transferred back to the original

response company or department. The transfer of command process always includes a transfer of command briefing, which may be oral, written, or a combination of both.

AccountabilityEffective accountability during incident operations is essential at all jurisdictional levels and within individual functional areas. Individuals must abide by policies and guidelines and any applicable local, tribal, State, or Federal rules and regulations. The following guidelines must be adhered to:

Check-In: All responders, regardless of agency affiliation, must report in to receive an assignment in accordance with the procedures established by the Incident Commander.

Incident Action Plan: Response operations must be directed and coordinated as outlined in the IAP. Unity of Command: Each individual involved in incident operations will be assigned to only one

supervisor. Span of Control: Supervisors must be able to adequately supervise and control their

subordinates, as well as communicate with and manage all resources under their supervision. Resource Tracking: Supervisors must record and report resource status changes as they occur.

MobilizationAt any incident or event, the situation must be assessed and response planned. Resources must be organized, assigned and directed to accomplish the incident objectives. As they work, resources must be managed to adjust to changing conditions. Managing resources safely and effectively is the most important consideration at an incident. Therefore, personnel and equipment should respond only when requested or when dispatched by an appropriate authority.Information and Intelligence ManagementThe analysis and sharing of information and intelligence is an important component of ICS. The incident management organization must establish a process for gathering, sharing, and managing incident-related information and intelligence.Intelligence includes not only national security or other types of classified information but also other operational information that may come from a variety of different sources, such as:

Risk assessments Medical intelligence (i.e., surveillance) Weather information Geospatial data Structural designs Toxic contaminant levels Utilities and public works data



LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENTUnity of command clears up many of the potential communication problems encountered in managing incidents or events by maintaining formal communication relationship only with one's immediate supervisor.Don't confuse unity of command with Unified Command!Unity of command means that each individual involved in incident operations will be assigned to only one supervisor to whom they report.

Chain of command and unity of command help to ensure that clear reporting relationships exist and eliminate the confusion caused by multiple, conflicting directives. Incident managers at all levels must be able to control the actions of all personnel under their supervision.Unified CommandResponsible agencies manage an incident together under a Unified Command.Unified Command:

Enables all responsible agencies to manage an incident together by establishing a common set of incident objectives and strategies.

Allows Incident Commanders to make joint decisions by establishing a single command structure at one Incident Command Post (ICP).

Maintains unity of command. Each employee only reports to one supervisor.Advantages of Unified CommandAdvantages of using Unified Command include:

A single set of objectives guide incident response. A collective approach is used to develop strategies to achieve incident objectives. Information flow and coordination are improved between all involved in the incident. All agencies have an understanding of joint priorities and restrictions. No Agency’s authority will be compromised or neglected. Agencies' efforts are optimized as they perform their respective assignments under a single Incident

Action Plan.Formal CommunicationFormal communication must be used when receiving and giving work assignments, requesting support or additional resources, or reporting progress of assigned tasks.

Other information concerning the incident or event can be passed horizontally or vertically within the organization without restriction. This is known as informal communication.

Informal CommunicationInformal Communication is used to exchange incident or event information only. It is not use for formal requests for additional resources or tasking work assignments.

Examples of informal communication are as follows: The food unit leader may directly contact the resources unit leader to determine the

number of persons requiring feeding.

The cost unit leader may directly discuss and share information on alternative strategies with the planning section chief.

Incident LeadershipAs a leader during an incident, you must provide purpose, direction, and motivation for responders who are working to accomplish difficult tasks under dangerous, stressful circumstances.



LeadershipLeadership means providing purpose, direction, and motivation for responders working to accomplish difficult tasks under dangerous, stressful circumstances.

Common Leadership ResponsibilitiesAn effective incident leader:

ENSURES safe work practices

TAKES COMMAND of assigned resources.

MOTIVATES with a “can do safely” attitude

DEMONSTRATES INITIATIVE by taking action.

The safety of all personnel involved in an incident or a planned event is the first duty of ICS leadership. This is the overall responsibility of Team Leaders, Group or Division Supervisors, Branch Directors, Section Chiefs, and all members of the Command or Unified Command staff. Ensuring safe work practices is the top priority within the ICS common leadership responsibilities. In addition, an effective incident leader:

COMMUNICATES by giving specific instruction and asking for feedback

SUPERVISES the scene of action

EVALUATES the effectiveness of the plan

UNDERSTANDS and ACCEPTS the need to modify plans or instructions.

Leadership & DutyLeaders should know, understand, and practice the leadership principles. Leaders need to recognize the relationship between these principles and the leadership values. Duty is how you value your job. Duty begins with everything required of you by law and policy, but it is much more than simply fulfilling requirements. A leader commits to excellence in all aspects of his or her professional responsibility.

Commitment to DutyWhat can you do, personally, that demonstrates your commitment to duty to those you lead? As a leader, you should try to:

Take charge within your scope of authority.

Be prepared to step out of a tactical role to assume a leadership role.

Be proficient in your job.

Make sound and timely decisions.

Ensure tasks are understood.

Develop your subordinates for the future.

Leadership & RespectIn order to maintain leadership and respect, you should:

Know your subordinates and look out for their well-being. The workers who follow you are your greatest resource. Not all of your workers will succeed equally, but they all deserve respect.

Keep your subordinates and supervisor informed. Provide accurate and timely briefings, and give the reason (intent) for assignments and tasks.

Build the team. Conduct frequent briefings and debriefings with the team to monitor progress and identify lessons learned. Consider team experience, fatigue, and physical limitations when accepting assignments.



Briefing ElementsProvide complete briefings that include clearly stated objectives and the following elements:

Task: what is to be done

Purpose: Why it is to be done

End State: How it should look when done.

Incident Management AssessmentAssessment is an important leadership responsibility, and is conducted after a major activity in order to allow employees and leaders to discover what happened and why. Assessment methods include:

Corrective action report. After action review

Post Incident analysis

Debriefing

Post incident critique

Mitigation plans

Using Common TerminologyICS establishes common terminology that allows diverse incident management and support entities to work together. Major functions and functional units with incident management responsibilities are named and defined. Terminology for the organizational elements involved is standard and consistent.CHECK-IN AT THE INCIDENTCheck-in officially logs you in at the incident. The check-in process and information helps to:

Ensure personnel accountability.

Track resources.

Prepare personnel for assignments and reassignments.

Locate personnel in case of an emergency.

Establish personnel time records and payroll documentation.

Plan for releasing personnel.

Organize the demobilization process.

Check-In LocationsCheck in only once. Check-in locations may be found at several incident facilities, including:

Incident Command Post.

Base or Camp(s).

Staging Areas.

Helibase.

Division/Group Supervisor (for direct assignment).

Note that these locations may not all be activated at every incident.



Initial Incident BriefingAfter check-in, locate your incident supervisor and obtain your initial briefing. The briefing information helps you plan your tasks and communicate with others. Briefings received and given should include:

Current situation assessment.

Identification of your specific job responsibilities.

Identification of coworkers.

Location of work area.

Identification of eating and sleeping arrangements, as appropriate.

Procedural instructions for obtaining additional supplies, services, and personnel.

Operational periods/work shifts.

Required safety procedures and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as appropriate.

Incident RecordkeepingAll Incidents that the Oklahoma City Fire Department responds on require some form of recordkeeping.

Below are general guidelines for incident recordkeeping: Type all entries when possible.

Enter dates by month/day/year format.

Enter date and time on all forms and records. Use local time.

Fill in all blanks. Use N/A as appropriate.

Use military 24-hour time.

Section Chiefs and above assign record keeper (scribe).

If you are expected to be a supervisor: You must maintain a daily Unit Log (ICS-214), indicating the names of personnel assigned and a

listing of the major activities that occurred during the operational periods to which you were assigned.

You are expected to give briefings to your subordinates, adjacent forces, and replacement personnel.

Communications DisciplineImportant considerations related to communications are as follows:

Observe strict radio/telephone procedures.

Use plain English in all communications. Codes should not be used in radio transmissions. Limit the use of discipline-specific jargon.

Limit radio and telephone traffic to essential information only. Plan what you are going to say.

Follow procedures for secure communications as required.

Personal ConductSexual harassment or discrimination of any type and the use of illegal drugs and/or alcohol are prohibited on all incidents. Report all such activities to your supervisor.

Often times, incident response can produce high stress situations. As part of your responsibilities, you may be required to interact with people who have been adversely affected by the incident. It is important to be patient and act in a professional manner at all times.

ICS ORGANIZATION



There is no correlation between the ICS organization and the administrative structure of the Oklahoma City Fire Department. This is deliberate, because confusion over different position titles and organizational structures has been a significant stumbling block to effective incident management in the past. For example, someone who serves as a Chief every day may not hold that title when deployed under an ICS structure.

Performance of Management FunctionsEvery incident or event requires that certain management functions be performed. The problem must be identified and assessed, a plan to deal with it developed and implemented, and the necessary resources procured and paid for.

Regardless of the size of the incident, these management functions still will apply.

Five Major Management FunctionsThere are five major management functions that are the foundation upon which the ICS organization develops. These functions apply whether you are handling a routine emergency, organizing for a major non-emergency event, or managing a response to a major disaster. The five major management functions are:

Incident Command: Sets the incident objectives, strategies, and priorities and has overall responsibility at the incident or event.

Operations: Conducts tactical operations to carry out the plan. Develops the tactical objectives and organization, and directs all tactical resources.

Planning: Prepares and documents the Incident Action Plan to accomplish the objectives, collects and evaluates information, maintains resource status, and maintains documentation for incident records.

Logistics: Provides support, resources, and all other services needed to meet the operational objectives.

Finance/Administration: Monitors costs related to the incident. Provides accounting, procurement, time recording, and cost analyses.

Organizational Structure - Incident CommanderOn small incidents and events, one person, the Incident Commander, may accomplish all five management functions. In fact, the Incident Commander is the only position that is always staffed in ICS applications. However, large incidents or events may require that these functions be set up as separate Sections within the organization.

Organizational Structure - ICS SectionsEach of the primary ICS Sections may be subdivided as needed. The ICS organization has the capability to expand or contract to meet the needs of the incident.

A basic ICS operating guideline is that the person at the top of the organization is responsible until the authority is delegated to another person. Thus, on smaller incidents when these additional persons are



not required, the Incident Commander will personally accomplish or manage all aspects of the incident organization.

ICS Position TitlesTo maintain span of control, the ICS organization can be divided into many levels of supervision. At each level, individuals with primary responsibility positions have distinct titles. Using specific ICS position titles serves three important purposes:

Titles provide a common standard for all users. For example, if one agency uses the title Branch Chief, another Branch Manager, etc., this lack of consistency can cause confusion at the incident.

The use of distinct titles for ICS positions allows for filling ICS positions with the most qualified individuals rather than by seniority.

Standardized position titles are useful when requesting qualified personnel. For example, in deploying personnel, it is important to know if the positions needed are Unit Leaders, clerks, etc.

Organizational Level Title Support PositionIncident Command Incident Commander Deputy

Command Staff Officer AssistantGeneral Staff (Section) Chief Deputy

Branch Director DeputyDivision/Group Supervisor N/A

Unit Leader ManagerStrike Team/Task Force Leader Single Resource Boss

Typical Organizational StructureThe initial response to most domestic incidents is typically handled by local “911” dispatch centers, emergency responders within a single jurisdiction, and direct supporters of emergency responders. Most responses need go no further.

Approximately 95% of all incidents are small responses that include: Command: Incident Commander and other Command Staff.

Single Resources: An individual piece of equipment and its personnel complement, or an established crew or team of individuals with an identified work supervisor that can be used on an incident.

INCIDENT COMMANDERIncident Commander's Role and ResponsibilitiesThe Incident Commander has overall responsibility for managing the incident by objectives, planning strategies, and implementing tactics. The Incident Commander must be fully briefed and should have a written delegation of authority. Initially, assigning tactical resources and overseeing operations will be under the direct supervision of the Incident Commander.

Personnel assigned by the Incident Commander have the authority of their assigned positions, regardless of the rank they hold within their respective agencies.

In addition to having overall responsibility for managing the entire incident, the Incident Commander is specifically responsible for:

Ensuring incident safety.

Providing information services to internal and external stakeholders.

Establishing and maintaining liaison with other agencies participating in the incident.



The Incident Commander may appoint one or more Deputies, if needed, from the Oklahoma City Fire Department or from other agencies or jurisdictions. Deputy Incident Commanders must be as qualified as the Incident Commander.

Deputy Incident CommanderThe Incident Commander may have one or more Deputies. Deputies may be assigned at the Incident Command, Section, or Branch levels. The only ICS requirement regarding the use of a Deputy is that the Deputy must be fully qualified and equally capable to assume the position.

The three primary reasons to designate a Deputy Incident Commander are to:1. Perform specific tasks as requested by the Incident Commander

2. Perform the incident command function in a relief capacity (e.g., to take over the next operational period). In this case the Deputy will assume the primary role.

3. Represent an Assisting Agency that may share jurisdiction or have jurisdiction in the future.

Command StaffThe Command Staff is only activated in response to the needs of the incident. Command Staff includes the following positions:

Public Information Officer

Liaison Officer

Safety Officer

Command Staff carry out staff functions needed to support the Incident Commander. These functions include interagency liaison, incident safety, and public information. The following Command Staff positions are established to assign responsibility for key activities not specifically identified in the General Staff functional elements.

Public Information Officer (PIO)The PIO is responsible for interfacing with the public and media with incident related information requirements. The PIO develops accurate and complete information on the incident's cause, size, and current situation; resources committed; and other matters of general interest for both internal and external consumption. The PIO may also perform a key public information-monitoring role. Only one incident PIO should be designated. Assistants may be assigned from other agencies or departments involved. The Incident Commander must approve the release of all incident-related information.



Safety Officer (SO)The SO monitors incident operations and advises the Incident Commander on all matters relating to operational safety, including the health and safety of emergency responder personnel. The ultimate responsibility for the safe conduct of incident management operations rests with the Incident Commander or Unified Command and supervisors at all levels of incident management. The SO is, in turn, responsible to the Incident Commander for the set of systems and procedures necessary to ensure ongoing assessment of hazardous environments, coordination of multi-agency safety efforts, and implementation of measures to promote emergency responder safety, as well as the general safety of incident operations. The SO has emergency authority to stop and/or prevent unsafe acts during incident operations. In a Unified Command structure, a single SO should be designated, in spite of the fact that multiple jurisdictions and/or functional agencies may be involved. The SO must also ensure the coordination of safety management functions and issues across jurisdictions, across functional agencies, and with private sector and nongovernmental organizations.Liaison Officer (LNO):The LNO is the point of contact for representatives of other governmental agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and/or private entities. In either a single or Unified Command structure, representatives from assisting or cooperating agencies and organizations coordinate through the LNO. Agency and/or organizational representatives assigned to an incident must have the authority to speak for their parent agencies and/or organizations on all matters, following appropriate consultations with their agency leadership. Assistants and personnel from other agencies or organizations (public or private) involved in incident management activities may be assigned to the LNO to facilitate coordination.

Assisting AgencyAn agency or jurisdiction will often send resources to assist at an incident. In ICS these are called Assisting Agencies.

An Assisting Agency is defined as an agency or organization providing personnel, services, or other resources to the agency with direct responsibility for incident management.Cooperating AgencyA Cooperating Agency is an agency supplying assistance other than direct operational or support functions or resources to the incident management effort. Don't get confused between an Assisting Agency and a Cooperating Agency! An Assisting Agency has direct responsibility for incident response, whereas a Cooperating Agency is simply offering assistance.AssistantsIn a large or complex incident, Command Staff members may need one or more Assistants to help manage their workloads. Each Command Staff member is responsible for organizing his or her Assistants for maximum efficiency. Assistants are subordinates of principle Command Staff positions. As the title indicates, Assistants should have a level of technical capability, qualifications, and responsibility subordinate to the primary positions. Assistants may also be assigned to Unit Leaders (e.g., at camps to supervise unit activities).

GENERAL STAFFExpansion of the incident may also require the delegation of authority for the performance of the other management functions. The people who perform the other four management functions are designated as the General Staff. The General Staff is made up of four Sections: Operations, Planning, Logistics, and Finance/Administration.

The General Staff reports directly to the Incident Commander.



ICS Section Chiefs and DeputiesAs mentioned previously, the person in charge of each Section is designated as a Chief. Section Chiefs have the ability to expand their Section to meet the needs of the situation. Each of the Section Chiefs may have a Deputy, or more than one, if necessary. The Deputy:

May assume responsibility for a specific portion of the primary position, work as relief, or be assigned other tasks.

Should always be as proficient as the person for whom he or she works. In large incidents, especially where multiple disciplines or jurisdictions are involved, the use of Deputies from other organizations can greatly increase interagency coordination.

Operations SectionUntil Operations is established as a separate Section, the Incident Commander has direct control of tactical resources. The Incident Commander will determine the need for a separate Operations Section at an incident or event. When the Incident Commander activates an Operations Section, he or she will assign an individual as the Operations Section Chief. The Operations Section Directs and coordinates all incident tactical operations.It is typically one of the first organizations to be assigned to the incident and expands from the bottom up. The Operations Section has the most incident resources.

Staging Area: In this expanded organizational structure Staging reports to the Operations Section Chief. The Operations Section Chief may establish, move and discontinue the use of Staging Areas. All resources within the designated Staging Areas are under the direct control of the Operations Section Chief and should be located at an incident where resources can be placed while awaiting a tactical assignment on a three-minute available basis. Staging will request logistical support (e.g., food, fuel, sanitation) from the Logistics Section.

Operations Section ChiefThe Operations Section Chief will develop and manage the Operations Section to accomplish the incident objectives set by the Incident Commander. The Operations Section Chief is normally the person with the greatest technical and tactical expertise in dealing with the problem at hand.

Operations Section: Maintaining Span of ControlThe Operations function is where the tactical fieldwork is done and the most incident resources are assigned. Often the most hazardous activities are carried out there.

The following supervisory levels can be added to help manage span of control:Divisions: are used to divide an incident geographically.

Groups: are used to describe functional areas of operation.

Branches: are used when the number of Divisions or Groups exceeds the span of control and can be either geographical or functional.



Operations Section: DivisionsDivisions are used to divide an incident geographically. The person in charge of each Division is designated as a Supervisor. How the area is divided is determined by the needs of the incident. The most common way to identify Divisions is by using alphabet characters (A, B, C, etc.) for areas around the exterior of the structure or in a wild-land setting. In multi-story occupancies, divisions will usually be indicated by floor number (Division 6 indicated 6th floor). When operating in levels below grade such as basements the use of subdivisions is appropriate. Other identifiers may be used as long as Division identifiers are known by assigned responders. The important thing to remember about ICS Divisions is that they are established to divide an incident into geographical areas of operation.Operations Section: GroupsGroups are used to describe functional areas of operation. The person in charge of each Group is designated as a Supervisor.The kind of Group to be established will also be determined by the needs of an incident. Groups are normally labeled according to the job that they are assigned (e.g., Human Services Group, Infrastructure Support Group, etc.). Groups will work wherever their assigned task is needed and are not limited geographically.

Note: Exposures will correlate with the alphabetical designation of the Side or division of the structure



Divisions and Groups may be assigned across geographical areas when a functional activity crosses divisional lines.

Divisions and Groups can be used together on an incident. Divisions and Groups are at an equal level in the organization. One does not supervise the other.

For example, a specialized Canine Search Group would be used wherever required and moved as needed in a building collapse incident.

When a Group is working within a Division on a special assignment, Division and Group Supervisors must closely coordinate their activities.

Operations Section: Establishing BranchesIf the number of Divisions or Groups exceeds the span of control, it may be necessary to establish another level of organization within the Operations Section, called Branches. Branches are identified by Roman numerals or functional name, and are managed by a Branch Director.

Operations Section: Branches, Other FactorsWhile span of control is a common reason to establish Branches, additional considerations may also indicate the need to use these Branches, including:

Multidiscipline Incidents. Some incidents have multiple disciplines involved (e.g., Firefighting, Health & Medical, Hazardous Materials, Public Works & Engineering, Energy, etc.) that may create the need to set up incident operations around a functional Branch structure.

Multi-jurisdiction Incidents. In some incidents it may be better to organize the incident around jurisdictional lines. In these situations, Branches may be set up to reflect jurisdictional boundaries.

Very Large Incidents. Very large incidents may be organized using geographic or functional Branches.

Managing the Operations SectionWhile there is a number of ways to organize field responses, Branches and Groups may be used to organize resources and maintain span of control.

Operations Section: Expanding and ContractingThe Incident Commander or Operations Section Chief at an incident may work initially with only a few single resources or staff members.



The Operations Section usually develops from the bottom up. The organization will expand to include needed levels of supervision as more and more resources are deployed.

Task Forces are a combination of mixed resources with common communications operating under the direct supervision of a Leader. Task Forces can be versatile combinations of resources and their use is encouraged. The combining of resources into Task Forces allows for several resource elements to be managed under one individual's supervision, thus lessening the span of control of the Supervisor.

Strike Teams are a set number of resources of the same kind and type with common communications operating under the direct supervision of a Strike Team Leader. Strike Teams are highly effective management units. The understanding that all elements have the same capability and the knowledge of how many will be applied allows for better planning, ordering, utilization, and management.

Single Resources may be individuals, a piece of equipment and its personnel complement, or a crew or team of individuals with an identified supervisor that can be used at an incident.

Remember, it is important to maintain an effective span of control. Maintaining span of control can be done easily by grouping resources into Divisions or Groups.



Another way to add supervision levels is to create Branches within the Operations Section.

At some point, the Operations Section and the rest of the ICS organization will contract. The decision to contract will be based on the achievement of tactical objectives.

Demobilization planning begins upon activation of the first personnel and continues until the ICS organization ceases operation.

Air Operations BranchSome incidents may require the use of aviation resources to provide tactical or logistical support. On smaller incidents, aviation resources will be limited in number and will report directly to the Incident Commander or to the Operations Section Chief. On larger incidents, it may be desirable to activate a separate Air Operations organization to coordinate the use of aviation resources. The Air Operations organization will then be established at the Branch level, reporting directly to the Operations Section Chief. The Air Operations Branch Director can establish two functional groups. The Air Tactical Group coordinates all airborne activity. The Air Support Group provides all incident ground-based support to aviation resources.

Planning SectionThe Incident Commander will determine if there is a need for a Planning Section and designate a Planning Section Chief. If no Planning Section is established, the Incident Commander will perform all planning functions. It is up to the Planning Section Chief to activate any needed additional staffing.

Planning Section: Major ActivitiesThe major activities of the Planning Section may include:

Collecting, evaluating, and displaying incident intelligence and information. Preparing and documenting Incident Action Plans. Conducting long-range and/or contingency planning. Developing plans for demobilization. Maintaining incident documentation. Tracking resources assigned to the incident.

Planning Section: UnitsThe Planning Section can be further staffed with four Units. In addition, Technical Specialists who provide special expertise useful in incident management and response may also be assigned to work in the Planning Section. Depending on the needs, Technical Specialists may also be assigned to other Sections in the organization.



Resources Unit: Conducts all check-in activities and maintains the status of all incident resources. The Resources Unit plays a significant role in preparing the written Incident Action Plan.

Situation Unit: Collects and analyzes information on the current situation, prepares situation displays and situation summaries, and develops maps and projections.

Documentation Unit: Provides duplication services, including the written Incident Action Plan. Maintains and archives all incident-related documentation.

Demobilization Unit: Assists in ensuring that resources are released from the incident in an orderly, safe, and cost-effective manner.

Information and IntelligenceThe Planning Section is typically responsible for gathering and disseminating information and intelligence critical to the incident. Based on the incident needs, the Information and Intelligence function may be activated as a fifth General Staff section, as an element within the Operations or Planning Sections, or as part of the Command Staff.

Sharing information and intelligence is an important element of ICS. Intelligence includes not only national security or other types of classified information, but also other operational information, such as risk assessments, medical intelligence (i.e., surveillance), weather information, GPS data, structural designs, toxic contaminant levels, and utilities and public works data, that may come from a variety of different sources. Traditionally, information and intelligence functions are located in the Planning Section. However, in exceptional situations, the Incident Commander may need to assign the information and intelligence functions to other parts of the ICS organization. In any case, information and intelligence must be appropriately analyzed and shared with personnel, designated by the Incident Commander, who have proper clearance and a “need-to-know” to ensure that they support decision-making.

The information and intelligence function may be organized in one of the following ways:

Within the Command Staff. This option may be most appropriate in incidents with little need for tactical or classified intelligence and in which incident-related intelligence is provided by other Fire Department Representatives, through real-time reach-back capabilities.

As a Unit within the Planning Section. This option may be most appropriate in an incident with some need for tactical intelligence and when no law enforcement entity is a member of the Unified Command.

As a Branch within the Operations Section. This option may be most appropriate in incidents with a high need for tactical intelligence (particularly classified intelligence) and when law enforcement is a member of the Unified Command.

As a Separate General Staff Section. This option may be most appropriate when an incident is heavily influenced by intelligence factors or when there is a need to manage and/or analyze a large volume of classified or highly sensitive intelligence or information. This option is particularly relevant to a terrorism incident, for which intelligence plays a crucial role throughout the incident life cycle.



Regardless of how it is organized, the information and intelligence function is also responsible for developing, conducting, and managing information-related security plans and operations as directed by the Incident Action Plan. These can include information security and operational security activities, as well as the complex task of ensuring that sensitive information of all types (e.g., classified information, sensitive law enforcement information, proprietary and personal information, or export-controlled information) is handled in a way that not only safeguards the information but also ensures that it gets to those who need access to it so that they can effectively and safely conduct their missions.

The information and intelligence function also has the responsibility for coordinating information- and operational-security matters with public awareness activities that fall under the responsibility of the Public Information Officer, particularly where such public awareness activities may affect information or operations security.

Logistics SectionThe Incident Commander will determine if there is a need for a Logistics Section at the incident, and designate an individual to fill the position of the Logistics Section Chief. If no Logistics Section is established, the Incident Commander will perform all logistical functions. The size of the incident, complexity of support needs, and the incident length will determine whether a separate Logistics Section is established. Additional staffing is the responsibility of the Logistics Section Chief.

Major ActivitiesThe Logistics Section is responsible for all of the services and support needs, including:

Ordering, obtaining, maintaining, and accounting for essential personnel, equipment, and supplies.

Providing communication planning and resources. Setting up food services. Setting up and maintaining incident facilities. Providing support transportation. Providing medical services to incident personnel.

Branches and UnitsThe Logistics Section can be further staffed by two Branches and six Units.

Not all of the Units may be required; they will be established based on need. The titles of the Units are descriptive of their responsibilities. Logistics Section: Service BranchThe Service Branch may be made up of the following units:1. The Communications Unit is responsible for

developing plans for the effective use of incident communications equipment and facilities, installing and testing of communications equipment, supervision of the Incident Communications Center, distribution of communications equipment to incident personnel, and the maintenance and repair of communications equipment.

2. The Medical Unit is responsible for the development of the Medical Plan, obtaining medical aid and transportation for injured and ill incident personnel, and preparation of reports and records.

3. The Food Unit is responsible for supplying the food needs for the entire incident, including all remote locations (e.g., Camps, Staging Areas), as well as providing food for personnel unable to leave tactical field assignments.



Logistics Section: Support BranchThe Support Branch within the Logistics Section may include the following units:1. The Supply Unit is responsible for ordering personnel, equipment, and supplies; receiving and

storing all supplies for the incident; maintaining an inventory of supplies; and servicing nonexpendable supplies and equipment.

2. The Facilities Unit is responsible for the layout and activation of incident facilities (e.g., Base, Camp (s), and Incident Command Post (ICP)). The Facilities Unit Leader provides sleeping and sanitation facilities for incident personnel and manages Base and Camp(s) operations. Each facility (Base, Camp) is assigned a manager who reports to the Facilities Unit Leader and is responsible for managing the operation of the facility. The basic functions or activities of the Base and Camp Managers are to provide security service and general maintenance.

3. The Ground Support Unit is responsible for supporting out-of-service resources; transporting personnel, supplies, food, and equipment; fueling, service, maintenance, and repair of vehicles and other ground support equipment; and implementing the Traffic Plan for the incident.

Finance/Administration SectionThe Incident Commander will determine if there is a need for a Finance/Administration Section at the incident and designate an individual to fill the position of the Finance/Administration Section Chief.

If no Finance/Administration Section is established, the Incident Commander will perform all finance functions.

Finance/Administration Section: Major ActivitiesThe Finance/Administration Section is set up for any incident that requires incident-specific financial management. The Finance/Administration Section is responsible for:

Contract negotiation and monitoring. Timekeeping. Cost analysis. Compensation for injury or damage to property.

Finance/Administration Section: Increasing UseMore and more, larger incidents are using a Finance/Administration Section to monitor costs. Smaller incidents may also require certain Finance/Administration support.

For example, the Incident Commander may establish one or more Units of the Finance/Administration Section for such things as procuring special equipment, contracting with a vendor, or making cost estimates for alternative response strategies.Finance/Administration Section: UnitsThe Finance/Administration Section may staff four Units. Not all Units may be required; they will be established based on need.

Procurement Unit: Responsible for administering all financial matters pertaining to vendor contracts, leases, and fiscal agreements.

Time Unit: Responsible for incident personnel time recording. Cost Unit: Collects all cost data, performs cost effectiveness analyses, provides cost estimates,

and makes cost savings recommendations.



Compensation/Claims Unit: Responsible for the overall management and direction of all administrative matters pertaining to compensation for injury and claims related activities kept for the incident.

BRIEFINGS AND MEETINGSEffective briefings and meetings are an essential element to good supervision and incident management. Meetings are intended to pass along vital information required in the completion incident response actions. These are usually conducted during extended incidents or incidents with multiple operations periods.

Typically, these briefings are concise and do not include long discussions or complex decision-making. Rather, they allow incident managers and supervisors to communicate specific information and expectations for the upcoming work period and to answer questions.

There are three types of briefings/meetings used in ICS: staff level, field level, and section level. Staff-level briefings are delivered to resources assigned to nonoperational and support tasks at

the Incident Command Post or Base.

Field-level briefings are delivered to individual resources or crews who are assigned to operational tasks and/or work at or near the incident site.

Section-level briefings are delivered to an entire Section and include the Operational Period Briefing.

Staff Level BriefingsThis level typically involves resources assigned to nonoperational and support tasks that are commonly performed at the Incident Base or Command Post. These briefings will be delivered to individual staff members or full units within a section. These briefings occur at the beginning of the assignment to the incident and as necessary during the assignment. The supervisor attempts to clarify tasks and scope of the work as well as define reporting schedule, subordinate responsibilities and delegated authority, and the supervisor's expectations. The supervisor will also introduce coworkers and define actual workspace, sources of work supplies, and work schedule.

Field Level BriefingsThis level typically involves resources assigned to operational tasks and/or work at or near the incident site. These briefings will be delivered to individual subordinates, full crews, or multiple crews such as Strike Teams or Task Forces and will occur at the beginning of an operational shift. The location will usually be near the work site or just prior to mobilization to the field. The supervisor attempts to focus the subordinates on their specific tasks and helps define work area, reporting relationships, and expectations.

Section Level BriefingsThis level typically involves the briefing of an entire Section (Operations, Planning, Logistics, or Finance/Administration) and is done by the specific Section Chief. These briefings occur at the beginning of the assignment to the incident and after the arrival of Section supervisory staff. The Section Chief may schedule periodic briefings at specific times (once per day) or when necessary. A unique briefing in this category is the Operational Period Briefing (also called a Shift Operations Briefing). Here, the Operations Section Chief presents the plan for all operational elements for the specific operational period. This specific briefing is done at the beginning of each operation shift and prior to the operational resources being deployed to the area of work. Often, a field-level briefing will take place subsequent to the completion of the Operational Period Briefing.

During any section-level briefing, the supervisor attempts to share incident-wide direction from the Incident Commander (IC), how the direction impacts the Section staff, and specific ways the Section will support the IC's direction. The supervisor will establish Section staffing requirements, Section work tasks, Section-wide scheduling rules, and overall timelines for meetings and completion of work products.



Below is a list of topics that you may want to include in a briefing. Current Situation and Objectives

Safety Issues and Emergency Procedures

Work Tasks

Facilities and Work Areas

Communications Protocols

Supervisory/Performance Expectations

Process for Acquiring Resources, Supplies, and Equipment

Work Schedules

Questions or Concerns

The Operational Period Briefing: May be referred to as the Shift Briefing.

Is conducted at the beginning of each operational period.

Presents the Incident Action Plan for the upcoming period to supervisory personnel within the Operations Section.

Should be concise.

In addition to the Operations Section Chief, the other members of the Command and General Staffs as well as specific support elements (i.e., Communications Unit, Medical Unit) can provide important information needed for safe and effective performance during the shift.

The Operational Period Briefing is facilitated by the Planning Section Chief and follows a set agenda. A typical briefing includes the following:

The Planning Section Chief reviews the agenda and facilitates the briefing.

The Incident Commander presents incident objectives or confirms existing objectives. Note: Objectives may be presented by the Planning Section Chief.

The Current Operations Section Chief provides current assessment and accomplishments.

The on-coming Operations Section Chief covers the work assignments and staffing of divisions and groups for the upcoming operational period.

The Safety Officer reviews specific risks to operational resources and the identified safety/mitigation measures.

The Special Operations Chief briefs on operations under his authority.

Technical Specialists present updates on conditions affecting the response (weather, fire behavior, environmental factors).

Specific Section Chief/Unit Leaders present information related to ensuring safe and efficient operations.

The Incident Commander reiterates his or her operational concerns and directs resources to deploy.

The Planning Section Chief announces the next planning meeting and Operational Period Briefing and then adjourns the meeting.



ORGANIZATIONAL FLEXIBILITYFlexibility and StandardizationA key principle of ICS is its flexibility. The ICS organization may be expanded easily from a very small size for routine operations to a larger organization capable of handling catastrophic events. Standardization within ICS does NOT limit flexibility. ICS works for small, routine operations as well as catastrophic events. Flexibility does NOT mean that the ICS feature of common terminology is superseded. Flexibility is allowed only within the standard ICS organizational structure and position titles.

Modular OrganizationIncident command organizational structure is based on:

Size and complexity of the incident.

Specifics of the hazard environment created by the incident.

Incident planning process and incident objectives.

ICS Expansion and ContractionAlthough there are no hard-and-fast rules, it is important to remember that:

Only functions and positions that are necessary to achieve incident objectives are filled, each activated element must have a person in charge and an effective span of control must be maintained.

Many incidents will never require the activation of the entire Command or General Staff or entire list of organizational elements within each Section. Other incidents will require some or all members of the Command Staff and all sub-elements of each General Staff Section.The decision to activate an element (Section, Branch, Unit, Division, or Group) must be based on incident objectives and resource needs. An important concept is that many organizational elements may be activated in various sections without activating the Section Chief. For example, the Situation Unit can be activated without a Planning Section Chief assigned. In this case, the supervision of the Situation Unit will rest with the Incident Commander.

Avoid Combining PositionsIt is tempting to combine ICS positions to gain staffing efficiency. Rather than combining positions, you may assign the same individual to supervise multiple units. When assigning personnel to multiple positions, do not use nonstandard titles. Creating new titles may be unrecognizable to assisting or cooperating personnel and may cause confusion.

Resource ManagementMaintaining an accurate and up-to-date picture of resource utilization is a critical component of incident management.

The incident resource management process consists of the following: Establishment of resource needs (kind/type/quantity)

Resource ordering (actually getting what you need)

Check-in process and tracking (knowing what resources you have and where they are)

Resource utilization and evaluation (using the resources effectively)

Resource demobilization (releasing resources that are no longer needed)



Analyzing Incident ComplexityIt is important to strike the right balance when determining resource needs. Having too few resources can lead to loss of life and property, while having too many resources can result in unqualified personnel deployed without proper supervision. A complexity analysis can help identify resource requirements and determine if the existing management structure is appropriate.

Incident Complexity and Resource NeedsWhen incident complexity increases, your resource needs and ICS structure grow accordingly.

Resource Kinds and TypesTo ensure that responders get the right personnel and equipment, ICS resources are categorized by:

Kinds of Resources: Describe what the resource is (for example: medic, firefighter, Planning Section Chief, helicopters, ambulances, combustible gas indicators, bulldozers).

Types of Resources: Describe the size, capability, and staffing qualifications of a specific kind of resource.

Importance of Resource TypingRequesting a resource kind without specifying a resource type could result in an inadequate resource arriving on the scene.

The Order: “We need a HazMat team.”

What You Needed What ArrivedResource types range from Type 1 (most capable) to Type 4 (least capable), letting you reserve the appropriate level of resource for your incident by describing the size, capability, and staffing qualifications of a specific resource.

Resource Typing and NIMSResource typing is a key component of the NIMS. This effort assists all Federal, State, territory, tribal, and local jurisdictions locate, request, and track resources to assist neighboring jurisdictions when local capability is overwhelmed. The NIMS Center encourages Federal, State, territory, and local officials to use the 120 NIMS Resource Typing Definitions as they develop or update response assets inventories.

Standardized Resource TermsThe following terms apply to resources:

Task Forces are a combination of mixed resources with common communications operating under the direct supervision of a Task Force Leader.

Strike Teams are a set number of resources of the same kind and type with common communications operating under the direct supervision of a Strike Team Leader.

Single Resource: An individual, a piece of equipment and its personnel complement, or a crew or team of individuals with an identified work supervisor that can be used on an incident.

Incident Typing: OverviewIncidents, like resources, may be categorized into five types based on complexity. Type 5 incidents are the least complex and Type 1 the most complex.



Incident typing may be used to make decisions about resource requirements. The incident type corresponds to both the number of resources required and the anticipated incident duration.

Type 5 IncidentCharacteristics of a Type 5 Incident are as follows:

Resources: One or two single resources with up to six personnel. Command and General Staff positions (other than the Incident Commander) are not activated.

Time Span: Incident is contained within the first operational period and often within a few hours after resources arrive on scene. No written Incident Action Plan is required.

Examples include a vehicle fire, an injured person, or a police traffic stop.Type 4 IncidentCharacteristics of a Type 4 Incident are as follows:Resources: Command Staff and General Staff functions are activated (only if needed). Several single

resources are required to mitigate the incident.Time Span: Limited to one operational period in the control phase. No written Incident Action Plan is

required for non-HazMat incidents. A documented operational briefing is completed.Type 3 IncidentCharacteristics of a Type 3 Incident are as follows:Resources: When capabilities exceed initial attack, the appropriate ICS positions should be added to

match the complexity of the incident. Some or all of the Command and General Staff positions may be activated, as well as Division or Group Supervisor and/or Unit Leader level positions. An Incident Management Team (IMT) or incident command organization manages initial action incidents with a significant number of resources, and an extended attack incident until containment/control is achieved.

Time Span: The incident may extend into multiple operational periods and a written Incident Action Plan may be required for each operational period.

Type 2 IncidentCharacteristics of a Type 2 Incident are as follows:Resources: Regional and/or national resources are required to safely and effectively manage the

operations. Most or all Command and General Staff positions are filled. Operations personnel typically do not exceed 200 per operational period and the total does not exceed 500. The Incident Commander is responsible for the incident complexity analysis, agency administrator briefings, and written delegation of authority.

Time Span: The incident is expected to go into multiple operational periods. A written Incident Action Plan is required for each operational period.

Type 1 IncidentCharacteristics of a Type 1 Incident are as follows:

Resources: National resources are required to safely and effectively manage the operations. All Command and General Staff positions are activated, and Branches need to be established. Operations personnel often exceed 500 per operational period and total personnel will usually exceed 1,000. There is a high impact on the local jurisdiction, requiring additional staff for office administrative and support functions. The incident is likely to be designated as an Incident of National Significance.

Time Span: The incident is expected to go into multiple operational periods. A written Incident Action Plan is required for each operational period.



AREA COMMANDAn Area Command is an organization established to:

Oversee the management of multiple incidents that are each being managed by an ICS organization.

Oversee the management of large incidents that cross jurisdictional boundaries.

Area Commands are particularly relevant to public health emergencies because these incidents are typically: Not site specific.

Not immediately identifiable. Geographically dispersed and evolve over time.

These types of incidents call for a coordinated response, with large-scale coordination typically found at a higher jurisdictional level.

Functions of Area Command The Area Command has the responsibility for:

Setting overall strategy and priorities. Allocating critical resources according to the priorities.

Ensuring that incidents are properly managed. Ensuring that objectives are met.

Ensuring that strategies are followed.An Area Command may become a Unified Area Command when incidents are multijurisdictional or involve multiple agencies.

Area Command OrganizationAn Area Command is organized similarly to an ICS structure but, because operations are conducted on-scene, there is no Operations Section in an Area Command. Other Sections and functions are represented in an Area Command structure.

Multiagency Coordination Systems (MACS)On large or wide-scale emergencies that require higher-level resource management or information management, a Multiagency Coordination System may be required. Multiagency Coordination Systems are a combination of resources that are integrated into a common framework for coordinating and supporting domestic incident management activities. These resources may include:

Facilities

Equipment Personnel

Procedures

Communications



The primary functions of Multiagency Coordination Systems are to: Support incident management policies and priorities.

Facilitate logistics support and resource tracking.

Make resource allocation decisions based on incident management priorities.

Coordinate incident-related information.

Coordinate interagency and intergovernmental issues regarding incident management policies, priorities, and strategies.

Direct tactical and operational responsibility for the conduct of incident management activities rests with the on-scene Incident Commander.

Multiagency Coordination System ElementsMultiagency Coordination Systems include Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs) and, in certain multijurisdictional or complex incidents, Multiagency Coordination Entities.

EOCs are the locations from which the coordination of information and resources to support incident activities takes place. EOCs are typically established by the emergency management agency at the local and State levels.

Multiagency Coordination Entities typically consist of principals from organizations with direct incident management responsibilities or with significant incident management support or resource responsibilities. These entities may be used to facilitate incident management and policy coordination.

Emergency Operations CentersEOC organization and staffing is flexible, but should include:

Coordination

Communications

Resource dispatching and tracking

Information collection, analysis, and dissemination

EOCs may also support multiagency coordination and joint information activities. EOCs may be staffed by personnel representing multiple jurisdictions and functional disciplines. The size, staffing, and equipment at an EOC will depend on the size of the jurisdiction, the resources available, and the anticipated incident needs.


Documents

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