Columbus Fire SOP Manual Quiz 2025

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Questions and Answers

Which section does the 'Accountability' SOP fall under?

MAINTENANCE

SCENE SAFETY (correct)

EQUIPMENT

RESPONSE TACTICS

The 'Active Violence Incident (AVI) Response' SOP was revised on 5/13/2021.

True

What is the revision date of the 'Apparatus Specifications' SOP?

5/4/1999

The revision date for 'B' Assignment Response is ___

3/1/2006 Signup and view all the answers

What is the title of the SOP that deals with personnel issues?

AWOL Signup and view all the answers

The revision date for 'Basement Fire' SOP is 5/2/2016.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the safe driving procedures for apparatus and vehicles?

To identify safe driving procedures for apparatus and vehicles. Signup and view all the answers

What triggers alerts in the GPS system?

The vehicle has traveled outside of Franklin and its contiguous counties. Signup and view all the answers

Drivers of all Fire Division vehicles must have a valid driver’s license.

True Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions is specifically prohibited while riding in a Fire Division vehicle?

Standing while riding. Signup and view all the answers

Emergency responses will have emergency lights and ______ operating concurrently.

sirens Signup and view all the answers

What must all persons in a Fire Division vehicle do before the vehicle is moved?

Be dressed, seated, and have seat belts fastened. Signup and view all the answers

Speed limits may never be exceeded during emergency response.

False Signup and view all the answers

Drivers of Division vehicles may proceed through an intersection against a red light if they believe it can be accomplished safely.

False Signup and view all the answers

When should drivers of Fire Division vehicles bring their vehicle to a complete stop? (Select all that apply)

When other intersection hazards are present Signup and view all the answers

What should be done whenever a fire apparatus is stopped and the driver is not in his/her seat?

The wheels shall be chocked, front and back. Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for training personnel in the proper application of backing procedures?

Division Officers Signup and view all the answers

During the backing process, the driver and backer(s) must remain in both visual and ______ contact at all times.

voice Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Rescue Support Units (RSUs)?

To identify the response and utilization of equipment or absorbent at an incident. Signup and view all the answers

What should companies monitor while responding to multi-company incidents?

Both B# IC and B# FG talkgroups Signup and view all the answers

Fireground benchmarks are used to indicate the accomplishments of fireground objectives.

True Signup and view all the answers

What does the C-A-N Report stand for?

Conditions, Actions, Needs Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the SOP regarding On-Scene Radio Report?

To identify the procedure to be used when giving an Initial Radio Report. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Initial Radio Report include?

Company Designation, Building/Incident Description, Problem Description, Name of Incident Commander, and Location of Accountability. Signup and view all the answers

The Initial Radio Report is optional for the first arriving officer at the scene.

False Signup and view all the answers

What does the acronym L-U-N-A-R stand for in Mayday communications?

Location, Unit, Name, Air, Resources Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a reason to use the Urgent message?

Establishing a command post Signup and view all the answers

What actions are taken during a 10-3 response?

Notify Police Dispatcher, activate Radio Restriction Tone, and send fire apparatus to assist. Signup and view all the answers

What is the ICS designed for?

To control personnel, facilities, equipment, and communications during an emergency. Signup and view all the answers

What is the title of SOP 03-03-06?

HazMat Signup and view all the answers

What is the revised date for 'Bed Bug Procedures'?

3/15/2023 Signup and view all the answers

What is the section number for 'BLS Response'?

02-03-06 Signup and view all the answers

SOP 03-01-08 is about the transportation of explosives.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is the subject of SOP 01-05-05?

Department of Health Notification Signup and view all the answers

Which title corresponds to section 04-03-22?

Lactation Policy Signup and view all the answers

What is the revised date for 'Divisions and Groups'?

1/1/2019 Signup and view all the answers

Match the following SOP titles with their corresponding sections:

Emergency Evacuation = 02-01-04 Rescue Support Units = 01-01-06 Driver’s License Suspension = 04-03-06 HazMat Action Plan = 03-03-02 Signup and view all the answers

What is section 01-06-01 about?

Incidents Reports Signup and view all the answers

The Bomb Squad Reporting Procedures is located in section 03-01-09.

True Signup and view all the answers

SOP 02-03-15 is about ________.

Vehicle Fire Signup and view all the answers

When was the 'Gas Leak Response' SOP last revised?

7/1/1998 Signup and view all the answers

What is the subject matter for SOP 01-04-08?

Air Management for SCBA use Signup and view all the answers

What should Division personnel do when served with a criminal temporary protection order?

Forward copies of the orders along with written notifications Signup and view all the answers

What is prohibited for members of the Division of Fire while on duty?

Using personal electronic devices during public duties Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a requirement when personnel receive a subpoena related to a civil or criminal matter?

They must notify the Division if it is adverse to the Division's interests Signup and view all the answers

What documentation must be provided by personnel who lose their driving privileges while on duty?

Documentation of conditional driving privileges if applicable Signup and view all the answers

Under which circumstances can Division personnel use personal electronic devices while on duty?

When there is no public activity or incident scene involvement Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of members being required to review the Rules, Regulations, Policies, and Procedures?

To utilize judgment and initiative in unusual circumstances. Signup and view all the answers

What is expected when a member deviates from established Division Procedures?

The member must inform affected individuals about the action taken. Signup and view all the answers

What should Division members do when they notice a consistent variance from the established Rules and Regulations?

Document the variance and report it in writing to the Chief. Signup and view all the answers

In what context should variances from the Rules and Regulations be considered acceptable?

In temporary situations, provided they are made known to affected parties. Signup and view all the answers

What is the general expectation for Officers within the Division regarding adherence to policies?

They are required to promote compliance among their subordinates. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommendation regarding variance from established Division Procedures?

Deviations should be rare and temporary. Signup and view all the answers

How are established procedures intended to function within the Division?

As guidelines that allow for reasonable judgment. Signup and view all the answers

What accountability do Division members have if they witness a violation of the Rules or Procedures?

They have a responsibility to address it at once or report it. Signup and view all the answers

What powers are granted to municipalities by the charter?

Both expressed and implied powers Signup and view all the answers

How can the administrative code be amended according to the charter?

By a vote of not less than two-thirds of the council members Signup and view all the answers

What is the precedence of the administrative code over ordinances or resolutions?

It takes precedence, unless specified otherwise by a two-thirds council vote Signup and view all the answers

What types of divisions are established under the Department of Public Safety?

Division of Police and Division of Fire Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the enumeration of powers in the charter is correct?

The enumeration of powers is not exclusive Signup and view all the answers

In what circumstance can a resolution exempt from administrative code provisions?

When it deals with procedural rather than organizational matters Signup and view all the answers

What should members do if their driver's license is suspended or revoked?

Notify ES-2 and submit a written report to the Chief. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following behaviors is strictly prohibited among Division members?

Threatening or intimidating other members or the public. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an established department in the charter?

Department of Public Works Signup and view all the answers

Which body is responsible for adopting ordinances related to the administrative organization of the city government?

The City Council Signup and view all the answers

What is required from members regarding their telecommunication availability?

Members must maintain a phone available for contact during off-duty times. Signup and view all the answers

Which action must members take towards other Division members?

Maintain courtesy and respect in their dealings. Signup and view all the answers

What powers does the charter state can be exercised if not provided for within it?

Powers prescribed by the general laws applicable to municipalities Signup and view all the answers

What happens if an ordinance needs to contradict the administrative code?

The council must specify in the ordinance that it is exempt from the administrative code Signup and view all the answers

How should members refer to officers of the Division?

By their proper titles as per their rank. Signup and view all the answers

What is expected of members during interactions with the public?

To appear friendly and helpful. Signup and view all the answers

What should members not do in designated NO SMOKING areas?

Smoke tobacco products. Signup and view all the answers

Which principle is vital in maintaining cooperation among Division members?

Fostering a spirit of good will. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of behavior is emphasized for Division members in their interactions?

Respect and courtesy towards everyone. Signup and view all the answers

What must members avoid in regard to legal debts?

Refusing to pay legal debts. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of officers upon receiving email communications?

To approve, acknowledge, and/or comment before submission Signup and view all the answers

Which action is strictly prohibited for members while on duty?

Engaging in altercations or fights Signup and view all the answers

Under the regulations, what behavior is expected from members regarding community standards?

To refrain from possessing obscene material Signup and view all the answers

What is required of members in terms of language usage while in uniform?

Avoid indecent, profane, or abusive language Signup and view all the answers

When can members consume alcohol while in their Class A uniform?

Only during approved division events with prior approval Signup and view all the answers

What happens if members possess obscene material in division facilities?

They should bring it to the attention of a superior Signup and view all the answers

What type of behavior will members be held accountable for while attending division-sanctioned events?

Any behavior unbecoming of a member Signup and view all the answers

What guideline must members adhere to regarding the use of narcotics?

They must never use or be under the influence while on or off duty Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly states a restriction on divisional members' communication practices?

They must send communications only to the next level Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of showing disregard for established community standards?

It can lead to disciplinary action within the division Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Columbus Division of Fire SOP Manual

Adapted version for the 2025 CSC Fire Promotional Exams
Revised on 04/05/2024

Alphabetized SOP Index

“B” Assignment Response
- Response Tactics
- Updated on 3/1/2006
“H” Assignment Response
- Response Tactics
- Updated on 3/10/2004
360 Size-Up
- Incident Command System (ICS)
- Updated on 5/2/2016
Air Scrubber
- Updated on 3/01/2021
Accountability
- Scene Safety
- Updated on 3/22/2016
Action-Response to Resistance / Aggression
- Fire Investigations Unit
- Updated on 8/15/2020
Active Violence Incident (AVI) Response
- Response Tactics
- Updated on 5/13/2021
Additional Resources
- Incident Command System (ICS)
- Updated on 5/2/2016
Air Management for SCBA use
- Personal Equipment PPE
- Updated on 5/23/2016
Air-Purifying Respirator (APR) Use
- Personal Equipment PPE
- Updated on 3/31/2017
All Clear
- Incident Command System (ICS)
- Updated on 5/2/2016
ALS Response
- Response Tactics
- Updated on 7/1/1998
Area Command
- Response Tactics
- Updated on 2/26/2017
Apparatus OOS Criteria
- Maintenance
- Updated on 4/10/2009
Apparatus Specifications
- Equipment
- Updated on 5/4/1999
Apparatus Tag Out Procedures
- Maintenance
- Updated on 8/27/2019
AWOL
- Personnel
- Updated on 7/14/2023
Backing of Division Vehicles
- Apparatus
- Updated on 4/3/2000
Basement Fire
- Response Tactics
- Updated on 5/2/2016
BDS Response at 2323 Citygate Dr.
- No information on this entry. ### Bomb Squad
Bomb Squad operations must be performed by trained professionals.
Bomb Threats procedures are designed to protect personnel and property.
Transporting explosives requires strict and specialized handling.
Bomb Squad Operations procedures include pre-blast and post-blast activities.
Post Blast Investigation procedures are a crucial part of bomb squad response.

HazMat

HazMat incidents require specialized response and training.
The CFD Bio Watch responsibilities involve monitoring for potential bio threats.
HazMat / Bomb Squad Medical Evaluation procedures ensure the safety of first responders.
The HazMat Action Plan outlines response strategies and procedures.
HazMat Staffing procedures outline the required personnel and their roles during a HazMat response.
HazMat - EMS procedures for HazMat incidents ensure proper medical care for those involved.
The Radiation Monitor is used to detect and measure radiation levels during HazMat incidents.

Response Tactics

The BLS Response procedures outline the actions to be taken during a medical emergency.
The Bomb Squad Response procedures outline the tactical approach used in handling explosive threats.
The Carbon Monoxide Alarm procedures describe the safety protocols for responding to carbon monoxide incidents.
The Dumpster Fire procedures guide fire suppression efforts for dumpster fires.
The Elevator Use During Fires procedures ensure safe use of elevators during incidents.

Fire Prevention

The CFD Rider Policy outlines rules for using CFD apparatus for transportation.
The City Fire Code Appeal Process is used to challenge or appeal a fire code enforcement decision.
School Fire Drills are conducted to train students and staff on fire safety procedures.
The Vacant and Inaccessible Building procedures focus on inspecting and potentially mitigating hazards in vacant buildings.### Driving Procedures
Drivers of all Fire Division vehicles shall be responsible for the safe and prudent operation of the vehicles under all conditions.
All persons shall be dressed, seated and have seat belts fastened before the vehicle is moved.
Drivers of all Fire Division vehicles shall bring the vehicle to a complete stop for any of the following: when directed by a law enforcement officer, blind intersections, when the driver cannot account for all lanes of traffic in an intersection, when other intersection hazards are present, when encountering a stopped school bus with flashing warning lights, and at all unguarded railroad crossings.
Drivers shall obey all traffic control signals and signs and all laws and rules of the road for the State of Ohio and the City of Columbus during all non-emergency travel.

Backing of Division Vehicles

Drivers of Division Vehicles should use a spotter, when possible, when backing.
Drivers should ensure the area behind the vehicle is clear before backing.
Drivers must back slowly and cautiously.
Drivers should stop immediately if they feel unable to see sufficiently to continue.
Drivers must back using extreme caution on all emergency responses.
Drivers should use mirror coverage on all sides of the vehicle before, during, and after backing.
Drivers should use the backup alarm to alert pedestrians and other drivers if they are in an area with a lot of foot traffic.

Rescue Support Units

A Rescue Support Unit shall be assigned to a particular Station and assigned an Engine.
Stations that do not maintain a Rescue Support Unit shall be notified when a Rescue unit from another station has been assigned to respond with them as a Rescue Support.
The Rescue Support Unit’s operator should remain at the station to respond if there is a second Rescue Support call or an Engine recall.
The Rescue Support Unit will respond with the Engine to all incidents where the Rescue unit is assigned.

Communication

Members are reminded that current driving procedures and limits have not changed, the criteria above only produces an alert in the GPS system.
Drivers of all Fire Division vehicles shall have a valid driver’s license.
Parameters have been placed into the GPS system that triggers “Alerts” to system users.
Vehicles are “Pinged” every two minutes; at every “Ping” the system gathers the vehicle data.
The alert generating criteria are: the vehicle has exceeded the posted speed limit by 30 or more miles per hour (MPH) for two consecutive pings, the vehicle has exceeded 90 MPH at any time, the vehicle has idled for 4 hours or more, and the vehicle is located outside of Franklin and its contiguous counties.### Backing Procedures
Backing a vehicle is an inherently risky operation
All Division vehicles permanently staffed with two or more members must follow specific backing procedures
It is mandatory to have at least one member off the vehicle assisting and directing the driver
Driver and backer(s) must maintain visual and voice contact during the backing process, stopping immediately if the backer is not visible
Both the driver/operator AND the officer or partner(s) are held accountable for violations

Rescue Support Units

Rescue Support Units (RSUs) are used to assist rescue personnel at technical rescue incidents
The primary personnel responsible for taking the vehicle to an incident are from Station 5 and 19
The FAO will dispatch the next nearest available company if Station 5 and 19 personnel are not available
The tools, equipment, lumber, and cribbing on the RSU are for use by rescue personnel
Any company may use the absorbent for incidents
The rescue company on the scene is responsible for returning all tools and equipment to the vehicle
The absorbent must be replaced as soon as possible after use
The RSUs should be checked each Wednesday

Radio Procedures

This SOP identifies the proper procedure for radio communications
Do not transmit if the channel is in use
Wait for the carrier to open before speaking
Speak slowly and distinctly in a normal conversational tone
Know what you are going to say before transmitting
When initiating radio contact, state who you are calling, who you are, and your message
All companies dispatched and responding to emergency runs shall verify their response over the Mobile Data Computer (MDC)
Members shall be guided by all orders and directions received from Columbus FAO and/or other jurisdiction’s dispatch center

Fireground Communications

This SOP establishes common practices for fireground radio communications
Multi-company incidents are assigned two talkgroups: the Incident Commander (B# IC) and Fireground (B# FG)
All companies should monitor both talkgroups while responding
The IC talkgroup is used for verbal markings, adding/replacing companies, non-critical communication between the Fire Alarm Office and the Command Post, communications between the Incident Commander and responding companies
The Fireground talkgroup is used for initial radio reports, calling "on scene", fireground communications for first alarm companies, the "STAY" talkgroup for companies involved in firefighter rescue when a "MAYDAY" has been declared
Multi-alarm companies utilize the designated battalion staging talkgroup (BN# STG) for communication
When operating below grade, in large commercial buildings, high-rise occupancies, or in areas known to have communication issues, the Incident Commander should monitor the designated non-repeated talkgroup (B# Direct Alpha, Bravo, Charlie) or DVRS Digital Vehicle Repeater System

Fireground Benchmarks and Reports

Fireground benchmarks are used to indicate the accomplishments of fireground objectives
These benchmarks should be announced on the B# FG talkgroup
Reports include: Working Fire, 360 Complete, All Clear, RIT Established, Water on the Fire, Situation Contained, and Personnel Accountability Report
A status report relays critical information between incident command and assigned companies, including current fireground strategy and the Incident Action Plan
A Progress Report provides important information to Incident Command and establishes tactical objectives, maintains personnel accountability, and efficiently manages incident resources
The C-A-N report should be initiated at regular intervals to relay conditions, actions, and needs

On-Scene Radio Report

The first arriving division officer or member on the scene must give an initial radio report and establish command
The Initial Radio Report includes: Company Designation, Building/Incident Description and Construction, Problem Description, Name of Incident Commander and command mode, Location of Accountability
The Initial Radio Report may include initial actions being taken to mitigate the situation

Initial Action Plan (IAP) Report

The IAP Report must be announced on the B# FG talkgroup.
If a 360° assessment can't be completed, the Incident Commander must announce that.
The IAP Report must include findings from the 360°, immediate life safety issues/hazards, location of the fire, the incident action plan and strategy, and any additional resources needed
Additional resources should be standing by to address life safety issues.
During "Investigation Mode," the IAP report may be limited to a 360° report or an announcement of a situation contained

Single Company Responses

A single company officer shall transmit a brief initial radio report on arrival.
As soon as it has been determined that no additional help is required, a Situation Contained will be transmitted to the FAO.

Urgent Communication

The Urgent message allows members who notice a warning sign of a pending hazard to transmit that information.
Urgent messages are used for situations like early signs of potential collapse, signs of possible backdraft or flashover, loss of water on attack lines, or a change from Offensive to Defensive Mode.
The member will call "Urgent" on the fireground or tactical channel in which they are operating.
The member will then give the situation status and an appropriate recommendation.

Mayday Communications

The Mayday message is reserved for situations of imminent danger of personnel.
Mayday messages can be used for situations like a member being trapped by collapse, a member becoming lost, disoriented, or entangled, or a member becoming ill or injured inside the hazard zone.
The member(s) in imminent danger should transmit the message, “Mayday-Mayday-Mayday” followed by a L-U-N-A-R Report.
Command will declare “Radio Restriction” and repeat the “Mayday” message.
The Radio Restriction Tone will be activated by the FAO once a Mayday is declared.
After a Mayday message is received, the affected talkgroup should only be used by the Incident Commander, Division or Group Supervisor or the Rapid Intervention Crew, in addition to the member who initiated the Mayday.

Emergency Assistance

The term “Emergency” should be used whenever requesting assistance for reasons of personal safety from potentially violent situations.
Emergency assistance requests will be in one of two modes:
- 10-57 - A deteriorating situation that may cause personal harm
- 10-3 - An imminent danger situation
Members will transmit the message “Emergency” or push the Emergency button on the radio or MDC.
Following a request for “Emergency” assistance, you should give your company designation and location.

10-57 Response

When a 10-57 response is requested, the Fire Alarm Office will initiate the following actions:
- Ask the company for a nature.
- Notify the Police Dispatcher of the request for a 10-57 response and request an ETA for police response.
- The Dispatcher will notify the on-duty Fire Alarm Office Lieutenant.
- The Dispatcher will check on the Unit's status every 2 minutes until the incident is deemed “under control”.
- The Fire Alarm Office Lieutenant may send fire apparatus to the scene depending on the situation and the ETA given by Police
- If available, members shall wear ballistic helmets and vests.

10-3 Response

When a 10-3 response is requested, the Fire Alarm Office will initiate the following actions:
- Immediately notify the Police Dispatcher of the request for 10-3 assistance and request an ETA for police response.
- Activate the channel marker on the channel the 10-3 was requested on.
- The Dispatcher will notify the on-duty Fire Alarm Office Lieutenant.
- All other radio traffic should be directed to 9 EMS 2 until a situation contained is given, unless otherwise notified by FAO.
- The Fire Alarm Office will send the closest two fire apparatus (Engines, Ladders or Rescue), a transport vehicle, EMS Supervisor, Battalion Chief and SO2 to the location.
- Responding apparatus will stage away from the scene and will be guided by the first in officer’s decisions.
- If available, members shall wear ballistic helmet and vests.
- ES-2 will also be notified by the Fire Alarm Office.

Other Requests

Non-Emergency requests for police (i.e. complaints, reports, traffic, etc.) other than 10-3 will require a reason for request.

ICS Purpose and Background

The Incident Command System (ICS) was created as a result of wildfires in Southern California in 1970.
It consists of procedures for controlling personnel, facilities, equipment, and communications.
ICS is designed to begin developing from the arrival of the first resource until the requirement for management and operations no longer exists.
The Incident Commander (IC) can be an engine company officer or the chief of the department, depending on the situation.
The structure of ICS can be established and expanded depending upon the changing conditions of the incident.
The system can be utilized for any type or size of emergency, from a minor incident involving a single unit, to a major emergency involving several agencies.

National Incident Management System

ICS is a portion of the National Incident Management System(NIMS).
The goal of the NIMS is to develop and maintain a credible emergency management capability nationwide.
The NIMS is used by the Federal Emergency Management Agency FEMA in preparing all government agencies to coordinate activities at incidents and disasters.
The NIMS process is a means of improving capability and is not an end itself.

Chain of Command

The chain of command establishes a framework of responsibility and an effective command system for emergency operations.
In the Incident Command System, a member of any rank can be assigned a command position.
Orders are normally to be given to subordinates only by their immediate supervisor.
The incident Safety Officer can bypass the chain of command and issue orders when personnel are in imminent danger.
Orders are to be given in a clear and precise manner.
A company shall work as a unit and stay together as much as possible.
When a company member is separated from his/her company to complete a task, that member shall, upon completion of that task, shall be under automatic orders to return and report to his/her immediate supervisor.
When a member receives an order from an officer other than his/her immediate supervisor, that member shall be guided by the following procedure:
- State any previous orders and the officer that issued that order.
- Follow the judgment of the officer superseding the previous order.
- After completing the superseded order, report the fact to your officer.
Giving orders to other than your immediate subordinate should be done only for the purpose of life safety.
Any uniformed personnel arriving first on the scene shall establish Command, give the necessary size-up and direct operations.
The first arriving officer or member shall assume Incident Command and remain in charge until formally relieved by a superior officer.
To formally assume command, the superior officer shall follow the Transfer of Command procedure (SOP 01-03-05).
The ranking officer, other than Deputy Chief and above, shall assume command at all emergency incidents unless it is under control and a Situation Contained is ready to be announced.
The responsibility for effective incident operations shall be placed with the highest ranking officer at the scene regardless of whether or not that officer formally assumes command.

### Purpose of SOP 01-03-02

The procedure helps firefighters understand the Incident Commander's responsibilities.

Incident Commander Responsibilities

Command Location: The Incident Commander sets up a central command location for the incident
Initial Radio Report: The Incident Commander reports details of the situation over the radio.
Incident Name: If the incident requires multiple resources, the Incident Commander assigns a name (e.g., "North High Command" for a fire at 300 N. High St.)
Working Incident Definition: A "working incident" necessitates multiple resources to bring the situation under control
Incident Priorities: The Incident Commander assesses the most critical needs first
Strategic Goals and Tactical Objectives: The Incident Commander sets overall strategy and individual steps to reach their objectives
Incident Action Plan: The Incident Commander creates and executes a plan for the incident
Command Structure: The Incident Commander establishes a command structure appropriate for the situation
Resource Needs and Deployment: The Incident Commander determines necessary resources and deploys them as needed
Emergency Activity Coordination: The Incident Commander coordinates all emergency activities
Initial Safety Officer: The Incident Commander acts as the Safety Officer until these duties are assumed

Division of Fire Rules and Regulations

Members of the Division of Fire are required to regularly review all rules, regulations, policies, and procedures set forth in the manual.
Officers and members must review applicable portions of the manual if there is any doubt before performing an act or making a decision.
Variance from the rules or regulations should only occur in rare situations.
The Procedures outlined in the manual, with any other written or unwritten Division Procedures, are intended as GUIDELINES for good operating practices and are not meant to limit the reasonable use of judgment or initiative in given or unusual circumstances.
Members are allowed to utilize flexibility in following Division Procedures to ensure actions are adequate and proper for specific situations.
Any variance or deviation from established Division Procedures is expected to be temporary and members who deviate from established procedures have an obligation to inform those who may be affected by the action.
Officers in the Division of Fire, including Lieutenants, Captains, Battalion Chiefs, Deputy Chiefs, Assistant Chiefs, and the Chief, are considered part of the City Administration.
Officers shall make every effort to follow, support, and promulgate these Rules, Regulations, Policies, and Procedures, and should strive to motivate their subordinates toward similar levels of acceptance and compliance.
Division members who witness or become aware of variances from any of the Rules, Regulations, Policies, or Procedures shall immediately or as soon as possible bring the variance to the attention of those involved to ensure the efficient operation of the Division will not be impaired.
Division members who witness or become aware of consistent or repeated variances from established Rules, Regulations, Policies, or Procedures shall report all pertinent information regarding such variances, in writing and through proper channels, to the Chief of the Division.
Members failing to comply with these provisions may be held accountable for their non-compliance
Any communication submitted via email through the chain of command shall only be sent to the next level in the chain.
Members shall not cc/bcc all levels of the chain of command when sending electronic communications.
Officers must promptly approve, acknowledge, and/or comment on communication received via email before submitting to the next level in the chain of command.
No officer or Division member shall suppress, disregard, or unduly delay any such communication.
Officers of the Division are included in the definition of "Division Members" and are governed by all rules and regulations pertaining to such members.
All members of the Division of Fire shall be governed by the customary rules of good behavior observed by law-abiding and self-respecting citizens.
Members of the Division of Fire shall not destructively criticize the Division or its policies, programs, actions, or officers. They shall not perform any acts or make any written or oral statements which tend to bring them into disrepute or ridicule.
Members of the Division shall not use indecent, profane, harsh, or abusive language while on duty or in uniform.
Members shall not drink any intoxicating beverage while on duty and shall not report for duty in an intoxicated or hungover condition.
Members, when not on duty but attending a Division-sanctioned event approved by the Fire Chief, may consume alcohol while wearing their Class A uniform. However, members will be held accountable for any behavior unbecoming of a member.
Members shall not possess, use, or be under the influence of any opiate narcotic, hallucinatory drug, or other compound of an unlawful nature, whether on duty or off-duty.
Members shall not engage in altercations or fights while on duty or in uniform, except in a life-threatening situation.
Members shall not display disregard for accepted community standards, including:
- Not possessing obscene literature, photographs, or other such material in Division facilities.
- Members shall report the presence of obscene material to their Company Commander or Bureau Head.
- Members shall not view obscene films or videos on Division premises.
Members shall not incur liabilities which they are unable or unwilling to pay, nor shall they refuse to pay all legal debts.
Members shall not smoke in designated NO SMOKING areas, other potentially hazardous areas, or any area or situation that would create an unfavorable impression on the general public.
Members shall not threaten, intimidate, coerce, or interfere with their superiors, other members, or the public.
Members shall be courteous, respectful, and considerate in their dealings with other Division members and the public.
Members shall not display unfriendliness or indifference in contacts with other Division members, and shall maintain a spirit of cooperativeness and good will toward all Division members and shall exchange proper greetings and acknowledgments as conditions warrant.
Members shall accord all officers of the Division the proper respect due their rank, and it is mandatory that they address and refer to all officers by their proper titles.
Members shall maintain a valid driver’s license, and shall immediately notify ES-2 and submit a written report to the Chief, if such license is suspended or revoked, or their driving rights are limited in any manner. The Chief will evaluate the underlying facts and determine if the member is to be assigned to administrative duties or relieved from duty in any assignment. Validity of driver's licenses will be checked annually by Mask Repair during facepiece fit testing.
Members are subject to being contacted in case of necessity during their off-duty time, and shall maintain a telephone where they can normally be contacted, and shall ensure the number of such telephone is known to their immediate superiors.
Notification to the Chief is required when there is:
- Division personnel who are subject to arrest, court action, or court appearance, except for divorce and/or child custody proceedings. However, notification shall be made when there is an arrest or court action resulting from nonpayment of child support.
- Division personnel who initiate lawsuits relating to their employment with the Division of Fire.
- Sworn personnel who are served with criminal temporary protection orders or any court orders related to domestic violence. Forward copies of the orders along with the written notifications.
- All sworn and any other Division personnel who operate motor vehicles on duty and who are subject to the loss, suspension, or revocation of their driving privileges. In addition, involved personnel shall provide documentation of conditional driving privileges, if applicable, along with the written notifications.
- Division personnel who receive a subpoena from, or otherwise assist or intend to assist, a party in any civil or criminal matter that is adverse to the interests of the Division of Fire or the City of Columbus.
- Division personnel who receive a subpoena from, or otherwise assist or intend to assist, the defense in a criminal case.
Members of the Division of Fire shall devote their full time and attention to the business of the Division while on duty, and are prohibited from following any calling or engaging in any activity that is either directly or indirectly associated with an off-duty business, occupation or employment during any on-duty hours.
Members shall not neglect their duties.
The use of any personal electronic devices shall be limited to times when the goals of the Division are met, and it does not lend itself to criticism from the public.
Personal items, including but not limited to cellular phones, pagers, laptop computers, cameras, radios, television sets, recording devices or players, or any other item not work related, shall not be used when dealing with the public, on an incident scene, in Division vehicles, or in the workplace, except as authorized by supervision.

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Test your knowledge of the Columbus Division of Fire's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) as adapted for the 2025 CSC Fire Promotional Exams. This quiz covers various response tactics and operational guidelines relevant to fire service operations. Ensure you are familiar with the updated protocols and practices for effective emergency response.