Boat Operations and Safety Procedures
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary reason trained on-duty crews are authorized to use boats?

  • For recreational purposes only
  • For training exercises
  • For patrolling waterways
  • For victim evacuation or rescue (correct)

    • What personal safety equipment must members wear while operating boats?

  • Firefighting gear
  • Heavy-duty boots
  • Personal flotation devices (correct)
  • Life jackets only

    • Which factor does NOT need to be considered during boat operations?

  • Time of day (correct)
  • Weather conditions
  • Water quality
  • Water speed

    • What is a requirement for boat captains and attendants?

    <p>Specific training and annual refreshers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When may the boats be used for special events or law enforcement assistance?

    <p>With the Fire Chief's approval</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What types of boats does the Spring Fire Department operate?

    <p>Flat bottom/connector style and inflatable boats</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are routine maintenance protocols established for?

    <p>Boats, including weekly checks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement is accurate regarding the procedure's scope?

    <p>It applies to all members of the department.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of personal flotation device must all members wear while operating the boats?

    <p>Type V personal flotation devices</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum water speed for safe operations in rescue scenarios?

    <p>2 knots</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which item should each member carry while operating in the boats?

    <p>A throw bag of floating rope</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What condition must be met regarding the weather before conducting waterborne activities?

    <p>No lightning and sustained winds below 30 mph</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should water speed be calculated before launching boats into moving water?

    <p>By placing a floating object and measuring its time to move 100 ft</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which action is explicitly prohibited during operations in boats?

    <p>Wearing bunker gear while on the boats</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who has the authority to suspend waterborne activities during dangerous conditions?

    <p>The Incident Commander or Boat Captain</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should not exceed the listed limitations on the USCG placard?

    <p>Capacity of each boat</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should victims or non-fire department passengers wear while on the boat?

    <p>An SFD personal flotation device</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended boat speed when approaching or departing from a scene?

    <p>As minimal as possible to maintain direction and reduce risks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is primarily responsible for the operation and navigation of the boat?

    <p>The Boat Captain</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done during the size-up process by the first arriving officer?

    <p>Gather information about the patients and situation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be the minimum staffing for boat operations?

    <p>One Boat Captain and at least one attendant</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is not permitted for SFD members at swift water conditions?

    <p>Performing body recoveries</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the appropriate action if water conditions are calm or slow-moving?

    <p>Attempt to speak the victim into self-rescue</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should happen before boat operations commence?

    <p>Discuss an incident action plan with all onsite personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done with cleaned wet equipment before repacking?

    <p>Hang it in a dry location to dry.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the responsibilities of personnel assigned to boat stations?

    <p>To complete routine weekly maintenance for all boats.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which course is NOT part of the minimum training required for Boat Captains?

    <p>Annual physical fitness training</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be checked regarding the fuel tanks during maintenance?

    <p>Ensure tanks are filled to 3/4 fuel level or above.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What evaluation must Boat Attendants complete annually?

    <p>A swim evaluation of 300 meters without stopping</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is included in the routine weekly maintenance inspections for boats?

    <p>Verification that trailer lights are operational.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which qualification is required for Boat Captains related to external training?

    <p>Boat operations course meeting NFPA Technician level</p> Signup and view all the answers

    If equipment is found to be damaged, who should be contacted?

    <p>SFD Support Services</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be established before entering the water for a rescue operation?

    <p>A rescue plan</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of having a quick-release mechanism for lifelines in water rescues?

    <p>To ensure the safety of rescue personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action should be taken if portable radios are not available during a rescue?

    <p>Use hand and whistle signals</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which signal indicates that a rescuer needs a medical kit?

    <p>Both arms crossed in front of the chest</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done with evacuated victims once they are on dry land?

    <p>They should be medically evaluated</p> Signup and view all the answers

    If a rescue event gains media attention, who designates a media staging area?

    <p>The Incident Commander</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many blasts on a whistle signal an emergency or rescue?

    <p>4 Blasts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should happen to the boats after a rescue operation concludes?

    <p>They should be inspected and cleaned</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus during boat operations according to the guidelines?

    <p>Minimizing risk to personnel and victims</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What training requirement must be maintained for boat captains and attendants?

    <p>Annual refreshers on procedures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What personal equipment must all members avoid wearing while operating boats?

    <p>Firefighting PPE</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a requirement for boat use under the guidelines?

    <p>A minimum of three operators on each boat</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During which conditions can the Spring Fire Department boats be utilized for special events?

    <p>Under the authorization of the Fire Chief or designee</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is described as a routine maintenance activity for the boats?

    <p>Weekly inspections and checks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the key responsibilities highlighted for personnel assigned to boat stations?

    <p>Conducting size-up and hazard assessments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following must be established before entering water for a rescue operation?

    <p>A rescue strategy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of a quick-release mechanism for lifelines in water rescues?

    <p>To facilitate rapid detachment in emergencies</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hand signal indicates that a rescuer is in distress and needs assistance?

    <p>One hand extended above the head</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During a rescue operation, where should boats be launched?

    <p>In safe areas with standing or slow-moving water</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should personnel do if a rescue operation is likely to attract media attention?

    <p>Designate a specific media staging area</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done with evacuated victims immediately after reaching dry land?

    <p>Conduct a medical evaluation and transport if necessary</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which whistle signal indicates an emergency or rescue situation?

    <p>4 Blasts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be established and agreed upon before entering the water for a rescue operation?

    <p>A backup plan and emergency procedures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the appropriate response if portable radios are not available during a rescue?

    <p>Use hand signals and whistle commands</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum water speed deemed safe for operations during a rescue scenario?

    <p>2 knots</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What specific type of personal flotation device must members wear while operating boats?

    <p>Type V personal flotation device</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under what condition should waterborne activations not be conducted?

    <p>During lightning storms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should the crew do if water conditions are suspected of being poor?

    <p>Establish gross decontamination</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which is NOT allowed during the operation of boats in moving water?

    <p>Using safety helmets</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should water speed be calculated before launching into moving water?

    <p>By timing how long a floating object takes to move 100 ft</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for launching boats downstream of victim locations?

    <p>To avoid impacting victims with vessels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum staffing required for boat operations?

    <p>One Boat Captain and one attendant</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In case of severe weather conditions, who holds the authority to suspend waterborne activities?

    <p>The Incident Commander</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should the first arriving officer primarily do upon arrival at the scene?

    <p>Perform a size-up of the situation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action should be taken to keep civilians safe during boat operations?

    <p>Keep civilians out of the hazard zone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should boat operations commence?

    <p>Only after appropriate personnel are on location and an action plan is discussed</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the proper procedure if water is calm or slow-moving?

    <p>Attempt to talk the victim into a self-rescue</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a command position during boat operations?

    <p>Floating Officer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should SFD members do when operating in areas with submerged objects?

    <p>Maintain minimal speed to reduce risks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is essential for the first arriving officer to assess?

    <p>The number and location of patients</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be done to cleaned wet equipment before it is repacked?

    <p>Hang it in a dry location to dry.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which course is NOT a requirement for Boat Captains?

    <p>Basic water safety course</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be checked regarding the fuel tanks during routine boat maintenance?

    <p>Fuel tanks should be filled to at least a 3/4 level.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During a boat's routine maintenance inspection, which item is NOT included?

    <p>Inspection of personal flotation devices.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who should be contacted if any equipment is found to be damaged or non-operational?

    <p>SFD Support Services.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum swim evaluation requirement for Boat Attendants?

    <p>300 meters, any stroke, no stopping.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary responsibility of personnel assigned to boat stations?

    <p>Completing routine weekly maintenance for all boats.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following must be done as part of a visual inspection of the boat?

    <p>Look for any obvious damage.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of operations is prioritized to ensure safety for personnel and victims during boat operations?

    <p>Considering water speed and weather conditions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about boat captain and attendant qualifications is accurate?

    <p>Captains must complete specific training and annual refreshers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of maintaining operational readiness, what routine activity should be performed for the boats?

    <p>Performing weekly checks and post-operation procedures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary operation focus when a boat is being used for victim evacuation during an incident?

    <p>Minimizing risk to personnel and the victims</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which procedure is explicitly included in the emergency operations guidelines for boat usage?

    <p>Establishing a command structure for effective operations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be avoided regarding personal equipment while operating boats, to ensure safety?

    <p>Wearing firefighting PPE</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the types of boats operated by the Spring Fire Department?

    <p>Flat bottom/connector style and inflatable boats</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What additional safety measure must be taken when operating boats under hazardous conditions?

    <p>Carrying throw bags and handheld lights</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum water speed considered safe for rescue operations before special precautions are required?

    <p>1.15 mph</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be the first action taken by the first arriving officer upon arrival at a rescue scene?

    <p>Gather information about the number of patients and their locations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which role is primarily responsible for assessing hazards and capability during boat operations?

    <p>Incident Commander</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of launching boats downstream of victim locations?

    <p>To reduce the risk of impacting the victim with the vessels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is NOT a consideration before commencing boat operations in moving water?

    <p>Popularity of the area among boaters</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should nonessential personnel be kept out of the hazard zone?

    <p>Whenever any water operations are taking place</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum crew required for boat operations?

    <p>One Boat Captain and one Boat Attendant</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under which condition is the Incident Commander authorized to terminate waterborne activities?

    <p>In sustained winds exceeding 30 mph.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the protocol regarding personal flotation devices for all members during operations?

    <p>Type V flotation devices should be department-approved.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During what conditions are SFD members prohibited from entering hazardous water?

    <p>When performing body recoveries in swift water</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should water speed be assessed before launching boats into moving water?

    <p>By placing a floating object in the water and timing its movement over 100 ft.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended approach speed of the boat when dealing with submerged objects?

    <p>Minimal to avoid damage and ejection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which action should be taken if water conditions are calm or slow-moving?

    <p>Attempt to talk the victim into self-rescue</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What specific type of helmet is required for members working around waterways?

    <p>Department-issued firefighting helmet or rescue helmet.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must occur before boat operations can commence according to the guidelines?

    <p>An incident action plan needs to be discussed with all onsite personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the appropriate action if water quality is suspected to be poor during a rescue operation?

    <p>Establish gross decontamination before entry.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of having a rescue and backup plan before entering the water for rescue operations?

    <p>They provide structured guidance in case of unforeseen complications.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the protocol for using hand signals when portable radios are unavailable?

    <p>Specific hand signals are standardized to communicate precise actions or statuses.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the critical reason for not attaching a rescuer to a lifeline without a quick-release mechanism?

    <p>It allows for immediate action if the rescuer is in danger.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When launching boats, which factor is crucial for ensuring a safe operation?

    <p>The depth of water in the launching area.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what circumstance might the Incident Commander establish a media staging area?

    <p>When the event could be perceived as high profile or attract media attention.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the protocol for handling evacuated victims once they are on dry land?

    <p>They must undergo a medical evaluation and provide personal information.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which whistle signal indicates an emergency or rescue situation?

    <p>4 Blasts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the appropriate procedure regarding boats after a rescue operation concludes?

    <p>Boats must be inspected, refueled, and inventoried before the next use.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a requirement for personnel conducting routine weekly maintenance on boats?

    <p>They should verify trailer lights are operational during inspections.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which qualification is specific to Boat Captains that is not required for Boat Attendants?

    <p>NFPA 1006 and 1670 Technician level training.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if a visual inspection reveals damage to the boat?

    <p>SFD Support Services should be contacted immediately.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a requirement during the annual swim evaluation for both Boat Captains and Boat Attendants?

    <p>Any stroke can be used to complete 300 meters without stopping.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum operational fuel level that must be maintained in the fuel tanks during inspections?

    <p>3/4 fuel level or above.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following actions is NOT part of the routine weekly maintenance protocol for boats?

    <p>Regularly washing the boat with soap and water.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does training play for individuals maintaining the boats?

    <p>Periodic training updates ensure understanding of maintenance requirements.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which maintenance task must support services complete as per the manufacturer's recommendations?

    <p>Fluid changes as needed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Boat & Waterborne Operations

    • Spring Fire Department uses boats for victim evacuations and rescues during flood events.
    • Boats can be used for special events and law enforcement assistance with Fire Chief's approval.
    • All members must wear personal flotation devices while operating boats.
    • No firefighting PPE is allowed while operating boats.
    • Boat operations require caution, considering water speed, weather conditions, and water quality.
    • Detailed procedures for responding to incidents, including size-up, information gathering, and command structure, are outlined.
    • Boat captains and attendants must undergo specific training and annual refreshers.
    • Routine maintenance and inspection protocols are established for boats.

    Boat Use

    • Trained on-duty crews can use boats for victim evacuation or rescue.
    • Boats can be used for special events or law enforcement assistance with Fire Chief's approval.

    Safety

    • All members must wear personal flotation devices (Type V) during boat operations.
    • Each member should carry a throw bag with floating rope.
    • No member should work alone.
    • Bunker gear, boots, and firefighting PPE are prohibited while operating boats.
    • A department-issued helmet is required.
    • Members should carry one handheld light per crew member when operating in low light or within 2 hours of dawn/dusk.
    • Only trained operators and attendants are authorized to operate boats.
    • Prior to launching, water speed should be determined.
    • Operations in waters moving over 2 knots (1.15 mph) should be limited to imminent rescues or at the discretion of the incident commander and safety officer.
    • Boats should be launched downstream of victim locations to minimize risk.
    • Operations should be conducted in sight of shore support or within radio contact.
    • Boat operations should be suspended during lightning storms or sustained winds exceeding 30 mph.
    • Special consideration should be given to water conditions, quality, and temperature.
    • The boat's capacity should not exceed the USCG placard limit.
    • All victims and non-fire department passengers must wear an SFD personal flotation device.
    • Caution should be exercised in flooded areas with submerged objects.
    • SFD members will not enter swift water or hazardous conditions for body recoveries.

    Emergency Operations

    • Upon dispatch, SFD members will respond with a boat trailer attached to a vehicle.
    • The first arriving officer will perform a size-up, gather information, assess hazards, and determine the need for additional resources.
    • All boat operations will follow department-identified command/operations positions: Incident Commander, Boat Captain, Boat Attendant, and Safety Officer.
    • Operations will not begin until appropriate personnel are on location and an incident action plan is discussed.
    • Minimum staffing for boat operations is one Boat Captain and one attendant.
    • Boat operations will only commence with adequate staffing present.
    • The Boat Captain is the sole operator of the boat.
    • Operations should be conducted with as little risk to rescue personnel as possible.
    • Talk – if water is calm, attempt to talk the victim into self-rescue.
    • Reach – if possible, utilize an object to reach the victim.
    • Throw – utilize a throw bag to haul the victim to the bank.
    • Row – operate a boat to reach the victim.
    • GO – If it is not possible to reach the victim by boat, a trained rescuer may enter the water. This operation is high-risk and requires a rescue plan, backup plan, and emergency procedures.
    • Rescue personnel will never be attached to a lifeline without a quick-release mechanism.
    • Boats should be launched in a safe area with standing or slow-moving water, ease of access to dry land, and free of obstructions/debris.
    • Evacuated victims will be removed in the safest manner possible.
    • Evacuee names, date of birth, and addresses should be obtained if possible.
    • The Incident Commander will designate a media staging area for extended events.
    • Regular media updates will be provided if necessary.

    Hand Signals & Whistle Commands

    • Hand Signals:
      • One hand extended above the head - Distress, need assistance.
      • One hand on the head - Okay.
      • Point left/right - Move or swim left or right.
      • Both arms crossed above the head - Stop.
      • Both arms crossed in front of the chest - Need medical kit and help.
    • Whistle Signals:
      • One blast - Stop or Attention.
      • Two blasts - Attention upstream.
      • Three blasts - Attention downstream.
      • Four blasts - Emergency or Rescue.

    Post-Operation Procedures

    • Boats will be trailered and removed from the water after operations.
    • Boats will be inspected, refueled, and inventoried before returning to service.
    • Boats and associated equipment will be cleaned and visually inspected upon returning to the fire station.
    • Wet equipment should be hung in a dry location to dry before being repacked.
    • Boat motors will be flushed with clean water.
    • Fuel tanks will be refueled and oil reservoirs checked.
    • SFD Support Services will be contacted for damaged or non-operational equipment.
    • Fluid changes will be completed by Support Services.

    Qualifications

    • Boat Captain:
      • TX Parks and Wildlife Boat Operators Course
      • Annual swim evaluation (300 meters)
      • Basic boat awareness course (Internal)
      • Boat operations course (External) meeting NFPA 1006 and 1670 Technician level.
    • Boat Attendant:
      • Annual swim evaluation (300 meters)
      • Basic boat awareness course (Internal)
      • Boat operations course (External) meeting NFPA 1006 and 1670 Awareness level.

    Boat Maintenance

    • Personnel assigned to stations equipped with boats are responsible for completing routine weekly maintenance.
    • Weekly boat operations testing and inspections include:
      • Verification of trailer lights.
      • Starting and running each motor at idle speed.
      • Ensuring water flow through the motor.
      • Inflating inflatable boats to the proper operational pressure.
      • Inspecting the boat hull and gunwales.
      • Checking fuel tanks.
      • Checking the oil level.
      • Verifying boat inventory lists.
      • Rinsing or wiping dust/debris from the boat.

    Boat & Waterborne Operations: Key Points

    • Authorized Boat Use: On-duty crews trained to operate SFD boats can use them for victim evacuation or rescue. The Fire Chief can authorize use for special events or law enforcement assistance.

    • Safety Requirements:

      • Personal flotation devices (PFDs): All members MUST wear PFDs while operating boats or along waterways. Department-issued Type V PFDs are to be worn.
      • No Firefighting PPE: Members will NOT wear bunker gear, boots, or other firefighting PPE while in boats or around waterways. Department-issued helmets (firefighting or rescue) are required.
      • Handheld Lights: Boat crews must have one handheld light per crew member when operating in low light or within 2 hours of dawn/dusk.
      • Untrained personnel: No untrained operators or attendants are allowed in boats during rescues, recoveries, or special events.

    • Operational Considerations:

      • Water Speed: Before launching or maneuvering boats into moving water, water speed must be determined.
      • Swift Water: Water speed exceeding 1.15 mph (1 knot) is considered swift water.
      • Boat Launching: Boats should be launched downstream of victims and motored upstream to reduce the risk of impacting victims with the vessels.
      • Shore Support: Boat crews must operate in sight of shore support or maintain radio contact at all times.
      • Weather Considerations: Operations are to be suspended or terminated during lightning storms or sustained winds over 30 mph. The Incident Commander or Boat Captain has the authority to make this call.
      • Water Contamination: If water quality is suspected to be poor or there's a possibility of contamination, gross decontamination should be established.
      • Boat Capacity: The capacity of each boat must not exceed the listed limitations indicated on the USCG placard.
      • Victim PFDs: All victims or passengers will wear an SFD PFD from their point of entry until they reach dry ground.
      • Submerged Objects: Extreme caution should be exercised in flooded areas due to potential submerged objects. Approach and departure speeds should be minimal.

    • Incident Management:

      • Initial Response: First arriving officer performs a size-up, gathers information, assesses hazards, and determines additional resource needs.
      • Command Structure: All boat operations follow a command structure:
        • Incident Commander
        • Boat Captain
        • Boat Attendant
        • Safety Officer
      • Minimum Staffing: Boat operations require at least one Boat Captain and one attendant.
      • Rescue Procedures:
        • Talk: If water is calm, attempt to talk the victim into self-rescue.
        • Reach: Utilize an object to reach the victim if possible.
        • Throw: Utilize a throw bag to haul the victim to the bank.
        • Row: Deploy the boat if necessary.
        • Go: If boat access is not possible, trained personnel may enter the water with a rescue plan, backup plan, and awareness of emergency procedures.
      • Evacuation: Victims will be evacuated in the safest way possible. Medical evaluation will be conducted on dry land, and EMS transport will be provided if needed.
      • Media Management: The Incident Commander will designate a media staging area for high-profile events or events attracting media attention. Regular media updates will be provided as needed.

    • Hand Signals and Whistle Commands:

      • Hand Signals:
        • One hand extended above head - Distress/Need Assistance
        • One hand on head - Okay
        • Point left/right - Move or swim left/right
        • Both arms crossed above head - Stop
        • Both arms crossed in front of chest - Need Medical Kit and Help
      • Whistle Signals:
        • 1 Blast - Stop or Attention
        • 2 Blasts - Attention upstream
        • 3 Blasts - Attention downstream
        • 4 Blasts - Emergency or Rescue

    • Post-Operation Procedures:

      • Cleaning and Inspection:
        • Boats will be trailered and removed from the water.
        • Thorough cleaning and inspection will be completed.
        • Wet equipment will be hung in a dry location to prevent damage.
        • Motors will be flushed with clean water.
        • Fuel tanks will be refueled.
        • Oil levels will be checked.
        • Visual inspection of the boat's interior and exterior will be conducted.
      • Damage Reporting: SFD Support Services will be contacted if any equipment is damaged, lost, or non-operational.

    Qualifications and Maintenance

    • Boat Captain Qualifications:

      • Must complete the following training with an annual refresher:
        • TX Parks and Wildlife Boat Operators Course
        • Annual swim evaluation (300 meters, any stroke, no stopping, with or without PFD)
        • Basic boat awareness course (Internal)
        • Boat operations course (External), meeting NFPA 1006 and 1670 Technician levels

    • Boat Attendant Qualifications:

      • Must complete the following training with an annual refresher:
        • Annual swim evaluation (300 meters, any stroke, no stopping, with or without PFD)
        • Basic boat awareness course (Internal)
        • Boat operations course (External), meeting NFPA 1006 and 1670 Awareness levels

    • Boat Maintenance:

      • Weekly Maintenance: Personnel assigned to stations equipped with boats are responsible for completing routine weekly maintenance.
      • Maintenance Tasks:
        • Trailer light verification
        • Motor start-up and idle speed check
        • Inflatable boat inflation
        • Hull and gunwale inspection
        • Fuel tank levels
        • Oil level check
        • Boat inventory verification
        • Boat cleaning and debris removal

    • Additional References: The procedure provides references to applicable laws, standards, and other related internal policies or guidelines.

    Boat & Waterborne Operations

    • The Spring Fire Department operates flat bottom boats and inflatable boats for victim evacuations during flood events, high water events, or related water events.
    • Only trained crews are authorized to use boats and the Fire Chief must approve use of boats for special events or to assist law enforcement.
    • All members must wear personal flotation devices, carry a throw bag, and must not wear firefighting PPE while operating boats.
    • Boat operations should be conducted with caution considering water speed, weather conditions, and water quality.
    • Boat crews must operate in sight of shore support or be in radio contact with shore support and incident command.
    • Boat operations should not occur during lightning storms or sustained winds over 30 mph.
    • The Incident Commander or Boat Captain can suspend or terminate waterborne activities if weather conditions pose a danger to rescue personnel.
    • Gross decontamination should be established if water quality is poor.
    • The capacity of each boat will not exceed the listed capacity limitations noted on the USCG placard.
    • Evacuees must wear an SFD personal flotation device until they reach dry land.
    • SFD members will not enter swift water or similar hazardous waterborne conditions for body recoveries.
    • The minimum staffing for boat operations is one Boat Captain and one Attendant.
    • Boat operations will not commence until adequate staffing is present.

    Emergency Operations

    • Units should respond emergency traffic unless otherwise indicated by incident information or the on scene incident commander.
    • Boats should be launched in a safe area with standing or slow-moving water, ease of access to dry land, and free of obstructions/debris.
    • Evacuated victims will be removed in the safest manner possible and medically evaluated upon reaching dry land.

    Boat Captain and Attendant Qualifications

    • Boat Captains must complete the following training annually:
      • TX Parks and Wildlife Boat Operators Course
      • Annual swim evaluation (300 meters, any stroke, no stopping, with or without PFD)
      • Basic boat awareness course (Internal)
      • Boat operations course (External) meeting NFPA 1006 and 1670 Technician level
    • Boat Attendants must complete the following training annually:
      • Annual swim evaluation (300 meters, any stroke, no stopping, with or without PFD)
      • Basic boat awareness course (Internal)
      • Boat operations course (External) meeting NFPA 1006 and 1670 Awareness level

    Boat Maintenance

    • Personnel assigned to stations equipped with boats are responsible for completing routine weekly maintenance for all boats.
    • Inspections will include the following minimum items:
      • Checking the trailer lights.
      • Running each motor at idle speed.
      • Ensuring inflatable boats are inflated to the proper operational pressure.
      • Inspecting the hull and gunwales.
      • Checking fuel tanks and refilling to 3/4 capacity or above.
      • Checking the oil level and refilling as needed.
      • Verifying boat inventory lists.
      • Rinsing or wiping dust/debris from boat hulls, sidewalls, and interior.

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    SFD.082 - Boat & Waterborne Operations PDF

    Description

    This quiz covers the essential procedures and safety protocols for boat and waterborne operations, particularly for emergency response teams like the Spring Fire Department. It includes guidelines on victim evacuations, usage for special events, and necessary training for personnel. Understanding these protocols is crucial for ensuring effective and safe operations in various water-related scenarios.

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