Combined Active Threat SOP

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Questions and Answers

What distinguishes the Hot Zone from the Warm Zone in an active threat incident?

The Warm Zone is where fire suppression personnel are allowed without oversight.

The Hot Zone poses a direct and immediate threat to life. (correct)

The Hot Zone is also secure by law enforcement.

The Warm Zone requires personnel to wear ballistic gear. (correct)

Under what conditions can SAFD personnel operate in the Warm Zone?

If they have received extensive medical training.

When they are part of a rescue mission without ballistic gear.

Only if they wear ballistic gear and law enforcement is on site. (correct)

When law enforcement is not present.

Where is the Unified Incident Command Post (UICP) typically located during an active threat incident?

Adjacent to the Hot Zone for immediate response.

In the Cold Zone, secured from immediate threats. (correct)

In the Hot Zone to coordinate quick evacuations.

Within the Warm Zone, close to ongoing threats.

What is the primary role of the Anchor Team within a Rescue Task Force (RTF)?

To identify themselves and establish a point of operations. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Ambulance Exchange Point (AEP)?

To rapidly load critical patients for transport to hospitals. Signup and view all the answers

Which personnel are allowed to operate within the Hot Zone?

MSOU personnel and Med Cat operating with law enforcement. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a Casualty Collection Point (CCP) during an active threat incident?

To collect and triage civilians before evacuation. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical requirement for SAFD personnel to engage in an RTF?

They must have completed RTF training and possess ballistic equipment. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of personnel required to operate the Med Cat?

Two personnel must be present inside the vehicle. Signup and view all the answers

Where are the keys for the Med Cat stored?

In the medical vault at FS01. Signup and view all the answers

What must personnel do before driving the Med Cat?

Successfully complete the SAFD training program. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of Fire Dispatch in relation to the Med Cat?

They alert FS01 and add the Med Cat to an ongoing incident when requested. Signup and view all the answers

What should the two FFs do after using the Med Cat?

Notify the BCs when they return to their home station. Signup and view all the answers

How are personnel qualified to drive the Med Cat identified?

In their TeleStaff profile marked as 'MedCAT'. Signup and view all the answers

What must be done with the doors of the Med Cat once personnel are inside?

They must be secured at all times. Signup and view all the answers

What happens if two Operators are not available at FS01 when the Med Cat is requested?

Dispatch will locate other Driver/Operators using TeleStaff. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the Staging Manager during an incident?

To monitor the Fire Ops channel while managing resources in Staging. Signup and view all the answers

Which actions should be taken regarding non-RTF Fire personnel?

They can assist with patient care during transport and other specified tasks. Signup and view all the answers

What must be in place for force protection according to the procedures?

Law Enforcement (LE) directing walking wounded away from Staging. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of training is required for RTF members?

RTF training paired with relevant ballistic equipment. Signup and view all the answers

When should the Staging channel be activated?

When directed by the Incident Commander. Signup and view all the answers

How should the 1st BC or arriving officer report to the LE Supervisor?

Verbal announcement and briefing in person. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if there is no Forward Command Post (FCP) upon arrival?

Contact Dispatch on Fire Operations to request a location. Signup and view all the answers

What is one responsibility of the Staging Manager regarding ballistic gear?

To set up a cache of unused ballistic gear from untrained personnel. Signup and view all the answers

What does a 'Scene Secure' designation indicate?

Law Enforcement has cleared the area and the threat has been neutralized. Signup and view all the answers

How is a building classified as 'Untenable'?

The building has reached a fully developed fire state, indicating no survivors. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Medical Special Operations Unit (MSOU)?

They are trained medics authorized to operate within the Hot Zone alongside law enforcement. Signup and view all the answers

When is the Med Cat vehicle used?

When operating inside the Hot Zone with ballistic protection. Signup and view all the answers

What defines a 'Hot Zone'?

An area where an armed subject presents a risk to first responders. Signup and view all the answers

What function do Evacuation Corridors serve?

They provide both ingress and egress paths for the Rescue Task Forces. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about Barricaded Subjects is correct?

Their actions can generate a Hot Zone due to their threat level. Signup and view all the answers

In emergency response, what is the purpose of clearing exposures?

To remove potential hazards and dangers from adjacent structures. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary action an Initial IC must take upon arrival at an incident?

Establish contact with Law Enforcement personnel Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT included in the briefing that the Initial IC must obtain from Law Enforcement?

Patient medical history Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if the incident has a large geographic footprint?

Clearly identify divisions and assign division supervisors Signup and view all the answers

In what situation is the use of Med Cat permitted inside a Hot Zone?

When a fire suppression emergency occurs Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of assigning someone with ballistic protection to the Initial LE Supervisor?

To ensure safety in the early stages of the incident Signup and view all the answers

How should SAFD evaluate their resources during an incident?

Determine if it is a medical emergency or fire suppression emergency Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a responsibility of the Initial IC during an active threat incident?

Requesting air support for aerial surveillance Signup and view all the answers

What should be ensured regarding Law Enforcement personnel when planning fire suppression operations?

They are positioned to protect SAFD personnel in the Warm and Cold zones Signup and view all the answers

What defines the Warm Zone in an active threat incident?

An area adjacent to the Hot Zone secured by law enforcement but still poses a moderate threat. Signup and view all the answers

Who is allowed to operate in the Hot Zone during an active threat incident?

Only MSOU personnel and the Med Cat with Law Enforcement. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the Rescue Task Force (RTF)?

To operate as a combined team of law enforcement and fire personnel in moderate threat areas. Signup and view all the answers

Where is the Rescue Task Force (RTF) allowed to operate?

In the Warm Zone if they have proper training and equipment. Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical location for the Unified Incident Command Post (UICP)?

In the Cold Zone where safety from threats is ensured. Signup and view all the answers

What is an Ambulance Exchange Point (AEP) used for?

To load critical patients quickly for transportation. Signup and view all the answers

What must personnel do upon activation of the Med Cat?

Pick up the Med Cat at the warehouse before reporting to the incident. Signup and view all the answers

How many personnel are required to operate the Med Cat at any given time?

Two Signup and view all the answers

Which team is considered the first RTF inside during an active threat incident?

The Anchor Team. Signup and view all the answers

How are personnel designated as qualified to drive the Med Cat?

They receive a 'MedCAT' designation in their TeleStaff profile. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Casualty Collection Point (CCP) during an active threat incident?

To triage civilians and prepare them for evacuation. Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected protocol for Medic Units once they have transferred patients to a hospital during an Active Threat incident?

They should return to the scene Code 3 unless directed otherwise. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with the Med Cat keys before personnel can drive it?

They must be located in a secure medical vault. Signup and view all the answers

What action will Fire Dispatch take if the Med Cat is requested and two operators are not available?

They will locate other Driver/Operators using the 'MedCAT On Duty' roster. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of the roles that the SAFD Communications will fulfill during an Active Threat incident?

Manage all direct communication with the public. Signup and view all the answers

What happens after the Med Cat crew returns to their home station?

They must notify their respective BCs about their return. Signup and view all the answers

What will trigger the activation of the Staging channel during an Active Threat incident?

When directed by the Incident Commander. Signup and view all the answers

What is the responsibility of Fire Dispatch when the Med Cat is active during an incident?

To enter the Med Cat into the incident report. Signup and view all the answers

In the case of a double company dispatched to an Active Threat incident, what is suggested regarding the use of Squads?

They should bring their Squad to transport personnel and equipment. Signup and view all the answers

Where is the Med Cat located when not in use?

At the SAFD Warehouse on Cherry Street. Signup and view all the answers

How many Medic Units are allocated in the initial dispatch for an Active Threat incident?

3 Medic Units Signup and view all the answers

Which Mutual Aid channel is designated for Fire Operations during an Active Threat incident?

MA20 Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Southwest Texas Fusion Center (SWTFC) if an Active Threat incident extends for a long period?

To dispatch a liaison to report to the Incident Command Post. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done regarding communication on the Law Enforcement Mutual Aid channel (MA21)?

Only Law Enforcement can communicate on this channel unless assistance is requested. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Staging Manager do with apparatus lights during an incident?

Turn them off except for the Staging Manager Signup and view all the answers

Who should report face-to-face to the Staging Manager to reduce radio traffic?

All arriving resources Signup and view all the answers

What must be verified before personnel move towards the Forward Command Post (FCP)?

Possession of ballistic gear and training Signup and view all the answers

What should the Staging Manager do to assist with patient care during transport?

Assign non-RTF Fire personnel to Medic Units Signup and view all the answers

In the event of an Active Threat incident, what is one of the first actions the 1st BC must take?

Assume Incident Command and brief with the LE Supervisor Signup and view all the answers

What must be done if there is no Forward Command Post upon arrival?

Contact Dispatch on Fire Operations for a location Signup and view all the answers

What should the Staging Manager do regarding walking wounded individuals?

Request law enforcement to manage their movement away from Staging Signup and view all the answers

What equipment must SAFD RTF members have before engaging in rescue operations?

Appropriate ballistic equipment and RTF training Signup and view all the answers

What feature of the Med Cat nozzle allows for effective fire suppression operations?

It can flow over 350 gpm. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of personnel needed in a crew when the Med Cat is deployed for fire suppression?

Four personnel Signup and view all the answers

Why is it necessary to have a dedicated, supplied fire engine for the Med Cat operations?

To support hydraulic operations. Signup and view all the answers

When considering a large incident with multiple divisions, what role must be filled for effective management?

Division/Group Supervisor Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential consideration when deploying firefighting resources in a Hot Zone?

Designating an experienced fire officer for oversight. Signup and view all the answers

What should be established if the Med Cat will be used for Hot Zone entry?

A briefing with relevant personnel Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of setting up an Ambulance Exchange Point (AEP)?

To streamline patient transfer during emergencies. Signup and view all the answers

What should be evaluated in coordination with the Medical Branch during a Med Cat operation?

The need for helicopter transport and landing zones. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Hot Zone

A zone with a known hazard or threat to life that is potentially immediate and direct.
Includes uncontrolled areas where an active shooter could engage people.
Defined by law enforcement and is within the line of sight/line of fire from any doorway or window.
Only SAFD personnel allowed to operate in the Hot Zone are MSOU personnel and the Med Cat.

Warm Zone

An area adjacent to the Hot Zone that has been secured by law enforcement but still has a moderate threat
Personnel in this area must wear ballistic gear.
Fire suppression personnel can position in the Warm Zone if Law Enforcement personnel are on site to provide immediate protection

Cold Zone

A low-threat area that is secure from the immediate threat and safe to operate without ballistic gear.
Staging and the UICP are located in the Cold Zone.

Forward Command Post (FCP)

Used in Active Threat Incidents - location of the first available LE Supervisor and Fire Command Officer.
Normally 200’ outside of the structure.
Initial Command (and subsequent Unified Operations) will begin here.

Rescue Task Force (RTF)

A combined team of LE and Fire personnel that will operate in the Warm Zone.
SAFD personnel may only participate if they have undergone RTF training and have ballistic Equipment.

Unified Incident Command Post (UICP)

Located in the Cold Zone where the Command Bus will be stationed.

Ambulance Exchange Point (AEP)

Location close to the Evacuation Corridor where critical patients are rapidly loaded for hospital transport.

Anchor Team

The first RTF inside is considered the Anchor Team.
The Anchor Team should identify itself geographically (ex: Anchor Team Library).

Casualty Collection Point (CCP)

Located inside the structure, where civilians are collected and triaged before evacuation.
LE should establish CCPs before RTF entry and identify them geographically (ex: Auditorium CCP).
The LE Officer in Charge is called the Room Boss.
Patient movement must be coordinated with LE.

EMS Transport Corridor

The EMS route from Staging to the Ambulance Exchange Point (AEP) and then to area hospitals

Evacuation Corridor

Main path of egress/ingress.
Identified by LE and is the path the RTFs will take.
May be multiple Evacuation Corridors.

Barricaded subject

An armed individual resisting Law Enforcement contact.
By threat or by actions this individual generates a Hot Zone.

Exposures

Non-involved adjacent buildings.
When fire is a threat, it is critical for LE personnel to clear exposures.

Scene Secure/Scene Unsecured

Law Enforcement designates “Scene Secure” when the subject is either in custody, no longer a threat, or the area has been cleared by LE.
At this time, there is no longer an active Hot Zone and SAFD personnel can take actions deemed appropriate by the IC.
“Scene Unsecure” indicates the presence of an armed subject who poses a threat to first responders.
The Law Enforcement IC will designate the Hot Zone.

Tenable/Untenable building

Consideration for incidents involving fire.
“Tenable” indicates that it is possible for someone to be alive inside the structure after fire knockdown, and thereby pose a threat to fire personnel making entry.
“Untenable” would indicate that the fire reached a fully developed state and it is unreasonable to believe that anyone inside could be alive.
The SAFD IC will make a determination of the building’s tenable/untenable status.
If the building is deemed tenable, it will be necessary to have LE Special Operations clear the building before SAFD personnel approach or enter.
If untenable, the inside threat has perished, and normal fire suppression actions can proceed.

Med Cat

A specialized vehicle that has ballistic protection which enables it to operate inside the Hot Zone.
Will be staffed by a minimum of 2 Firefighters (FFs) who have been trained as Med Cat Driver/Operators.
More personnel can be added to the crew, depending on the intended mission (fire suppression or patient rescue).
This apparatus will be operating in the Unified Command setting with Law Enforcement, EMS and Fire.

Medical Special Operations Unit (MSOU)

Designated Paramedics that have received tactical training with Law Enforcement Special Operations personnel.
These medics (typically assigned to M01 and M45) are authorized to work inside the Hot Zone.

Staging Responsibilities

Apparatuses lights at Staging will be turned off except for the Staging Manager.
To reduce radio traffic, arriving resources should report face-to-face to the Staging Manager.
Identify RTF-capable units (MSOU, TRT, and other RTF companies) and be prepared to send them to the FCP.
Non-RTF Fire personnel should be added to Medic Units to assist with patient care during transport, assisting with the walking wounded in a Treatment Group, setting up a Landing Zone, etc.
When directed by the IC, a Staging channel may be activated.
Any resources in Staging or responding to the scene will then switch to the Staging channel.
The Staging Manager must continue to monitor the Fire Ops channel to support Operations.
Identify minimum Staging resources from Operations.
Utilize Squads where possible to move equipment and personnel forward.
The Staging Manager should ensure that force protection is in place.
Request LE to direct walking wounded away from Staging.
The Staging Mangaer should set up a cache of ballistic gear from any personnel who have the gear but have not been trained.
This can be redistributed as needed.
No one should move towards the FCP unless he/she has ballistic gear and training.

Initial Actions for Hostile Incidents

While responding to an incident, monitor the active Law Enforcement radio channel for situational awareness.
Upon arrival, the Initial IC must establish contact with Law Enforcement personnel and get a briefing on the situation, to include:
- Where the location of the threat is, and whether the threat is mobile.
- Hot Zone location.
- Number and location of any patients.
- Location of the Forward Command Post (FCP).
- Identify the best staging location for SAFD resources.

Initial Actions for Hostile Incidents - Evaluation

Evaluate SAFD resources and their location(s).
- Is this more of a (1) medical emergency or a (2) fire suppression emergency?
- Assign a Chief Officer or senior Company Officer (with ballistic gear) to the FCP/ LE IC.
- Assign a Medical Branch and assign resources.
- Consider exposures and develop a protection plan.
- Brief SAFD personnel and update as needed.
- Develop a Fire Suppression Plan as needed.
- Develop a Medical Plan as needed.
- Evaluate the need for Rehab for long incidents.

Fire Suppression Plan

SAFD will not fight fire inside a Hot Zone, the Med Cat is the only exception.
Verify that Law Enforcement personnel are positioned to protect SAFD personnel in the Warm and Cold zones.
Assign an experienced Company Officer to the Med Cat to direct fire suppression operations if deployed to the Hot Zone.
Assign a supplied engine to support the Med Cat
A second engine may be needed for a hose lay exceeding 400 feet.

Med Cat Driver/Operator Responsibilities

No one may drive the Med Cat unless they have successfully completed the SAFD training program.
Personnel qualified will be indicated in their TeleStaff profile with “MedCAT” and on-duty personnel can be found with a “MedCAT On Duty” roster.
To Drive/Operate the Med Cat, there must be a minimum of two people inside the vehicle at all times.
This includes maintenance personnel who may need to drive the vehicle.
Once inside the Med Cat, personnel must secure all doors.
There are two checklists FFs will use (one for activation and one for demobilization).
The Med Cat is located at the SAFD Warehouse on Cherry Street, and the keys are in a medical vault at FS01.
When FFs are activated, they should report to FS01, pick up the Med Cat at the Warehouse, proceed to the incident location, and report to the IC.
SAFD will remain with three personnel at the FF's home company for the duration of the Med Cat incident just as they do when using MACs and BTs.
Higher Class (HC) will be assigned for the duration of the incident and the two FFs will evenly divide the HC.
Each FF will notify their respective BCs when they return to their home station and the BCs will enter the appropriate HC (in the notes indicate “Med Cat deployment”).

Fire Dispatch Responsibilities

If the Med Cat is requested for an ongoing incident by an IC or the FSC, Dispatch will alert FS01 and add the Med Cat to an incident.
If the personnel at FS01 are on another response or there are not two Operators available, Dispatch will locate other Driver/Operators using the “MedCAT On Duty” roster view on TeleStaff.
The closest available personnel to Cherry Street warehouse will be alerted and their assigned apparatus will take them Code 3 to the warehouse.
When two Operators are available, they will take the Med Cat to the scene.