300-01 Powerlines Down
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Questions and Answers

What is the correct method for occupants to exit a vehicle or structure during a fire?

  • Jump free with legs together and 'hop' out without touching the vehicle or ground (correct)
  • Crawl out while keeping arms extended to protect the head
  • Exit head first to avoid further hazards
  • Jump out and roll to the side to minimize injury

    • What should be considered regarding power pole fires?

  • They should always be extinguished immediately
  • Firefighters should enter the area once they are observed burning
  • They should be allowed to burn until power is confirmed off (correct)
  • They must be extinguished using water immediately

    • What is essential to do before entering an area with downed power lines?

  • Perform a quick entry to assess the situation
  • Establish a team to evacuate the area
  • Wait for the utility company to confirm the lines are de-energized (correct)
  • Assess the area without any restrictions

    • How should firefighters respond to transformer fires located above ground?

    <p>Wait for utility personnel to extinguish using a dry chemical extinguisher from an aerial device</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the event of an electrical vault or manhole fire, what is a critical action to take?

    <p>Do not enter the area or park apparatus over manhole covers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be the immediate action after performing a 360-degree size up at a power pole incident?

    <p>Request the utility company to respond</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What indicates high potential hazards at electrical vault and manhole fires?

    <p>Both potential for explosion and toxic smoke release</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of zone should be identified at the scene of a power line incident?

    <p>No-Entry zone that keeps people away until declared safe</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary concern when dealing with electrical equipment fires in relation to personnel safety?

    <p>The potential for toxic smoke and electrocution</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which should always be assumed about downed power lines?

    <p>They are energized and pose a risk</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When using water on energized electrical equipment, what is the correct technique?

    <p>Use a fog pattern hose stream at the base of the pole</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What actions might lead to downed power lines becoming energized again?

    <p>Through both induction from nearby lines and manual operations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should the size-up process include when responding to downed power lines?

    <p>A 360-degree size up</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many attempts to re-energize are generally made before lockout occurs for power lines?

    <p>Three attempts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the event of downed power lines, what is the primary reason for considering all power lines as energized?

    <p>It ensures safety for the response team</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which system does Fire Rescue operate when responding to incidents?

    <p>National Incident Management System (NIMS)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distance should be maintained in the Exclusionary Zone around downed power lines?

    <p>At least a distance equal to one span between power poles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What actions should be taken if downed power lines are in contact with a vehicle or structure?

    <p>Have occupants remain inside the vehicle or structure</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What additional hazards must be considered when dealing with electrical equipment fires?

    <p>Potential for toxic smoke generation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a precaution to take when considering the safety of personnel around downed power lines?

    <p>Treat all downed lines as if they are still energized</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended approach regarding any objects in contact with downed power lines?

    <p>Treat those objects as energized</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should the area around downed power lines be secured and entry denied?

    <p>As soon as possible, before waiting for utility company arrival</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should responders do while waiting for the utility company to arrive?

    <p>Maintain control of the downed line and secure the area</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What critical step should never be taken when downed power lines are in contact with a vehicle?

    <p>Touching the vehicle or structure</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should firefighters do when there is no life hazard involved with vault and manhole fires?

    <p>Let the fire burn while protecting exposures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which situation would require requesting the power company to shut down the electrical grid?

    <p>Downed power lines with an unconscious patient in contact.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What information is NOT necessary to request the response of power companies to drop a grid?

    <p>Time of incident occurrence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following factors must be considered before requesting a grid closure?

    <p>Potential loss of power to traffic lights.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When was SOG #1720 last issued before moving to SOG 300-01?

    <p>10/01/2012</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes a situation where firefighters would take action during a power line incident?

    <p>A citizen in contact with a downed power line.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What additional hazard must be considered when dealing with electrical equipment fires?

    <p>Toxic smoke</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What potential risk is associated with electrical equipment fires aside from the fire itself?

    <p>Electrocutions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why must responders consider secondary fires when managing electrical equipment fires?

    <p>They can complicate firefighting efforts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a hazard to consider when confronting electrical equipment fires?

    <p>Heat exhaustion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which of the following scenarios must the potential for electrocutions be considered?

    <p>In all cases of electrical equipment fires</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary objective when dealing with a power line fire?

    <p>To protect the surrounding area</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which method should be used when applying water to extinguish a power line fire?

    <p>Fog pattern hose stream at the base of the pole</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should NOT be done when confronting a power line fire?

    <p>Spraying water directly into the power line</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can be a consequence of improper techniques used when handling a power line fire?

    <p>Electrical shock to personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the approach to extinguishing a power line fire differ from that of a typical fire?

    <p>Water application techniques must be adjusted to safety concerns</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must always be assumed about downed power lines?

    <p>They are always energized.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What hazard is associated with downed power lines?

    <p>They can create sparks when touched.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should personnel assume when encountering downed power lines?

    <p>They are energized and pose a risk of electrocution.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to treat all downed power lines as energized?

    <p>To avoid the risk of electrocution.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common misconception about downed power lines?

    <p>They can be easily handled without protective gear.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What generally occurs after three attempts to re-energize downed power lines?

    <p>Lock out of the lines occurs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What assumption should never be made about downed power lines?

    <p>They are dead or de-energized</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to not assume that downed power lines are dead?

    <p>They could cause electrocution or injury</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should you do if you hear attempts to re-energize downed power lines?

    <p>Maintain a safe distance and observe</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What could be a misleading interpretation of downed power lines after re-energization attempts?

    <p>They are now safe for public access</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one method by which power lines can reset and become energized again?

    <p>Automatic re-closing methods</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following conditions can lead to power lines becoming energized again?

    <p>Induction from an energized line in close proximity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a typical method for power lines to regain levels of electricity after being de-energized?

    <p>Back-feed conditions from generators</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following options does NOT contribute to power lines resetting and becoming energized?

    <p>Physical disconnection of the lines</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What mechanism is an example of how power lines can automatically reset themselves?

    <p>Automatic re-closing methods</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the minimum distance to maintain from downed power lines?

    <p>At least one span between power poles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it critical to stay away from downed power lines?

    <p>They may suddenly become energized</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements regarding downed power lines is accurate?

    <p>All downed power lines should be treated as energized</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What misconception do people often have about downed power lines?

    <p>They are harmless if not touching the ground</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of electrical safety, what should be assumed about downed power lines?

    <p>They are always considered energized</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the correct way for occupants to exit a vehicle or structure during a fire?

    <p>Jump free with legs together and hop out</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following actions should occupants avoid when exiting a vehicle or structure in an emergency?

    <p>Touching the vehicle or structure</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important for occupants to jump out with legs together?

    <p>To prevent touching the vehicle and ground at the same time</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should occupants do if they need to evacuate due to a fire?

    <p>Quickly jump out without hesitation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does 'hop' out imply about the method of exiting a vehicle or structure?

    <p>A quick motion that avoids ground contact at first</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be used to extinguish transformer fires located above ground?

    <p>A dry chemical extinguisher from an aerial device</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended action for transformer fires until utilities can respond?

    <p>Allow it to burn until utility personnel can manage it</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is responsible for extinguishing transformer fires once they are above ground?

    <p>Utility company personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should firefighters NOT do when encountering transformer fires above ground?

    <p>Attempt to extinguish with water from below</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the potential risk of transformer fires if not managed correctly?

    <p>Electrical shock from electrical discharges</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a necessary action during Sub-Station Fires?

    <p>Consultation and cooperation with the utility company</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is NOT recommended when dealing with Sub-Station Fires?

    <p>Acting independently without guidance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the role of the utility company during Sub-Station Fires?

    <p>To assist in shutting down power if necessary</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should firefighters prioritize during a Sub-Station Fire?

    <p>Establishing communication and cooperation with the utility</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a critical risk factor during Sub-Station Fires?

    <p>Involvement of energized electrical equipment</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a critical consideration when responding to electrical vault and manhole fires?

    <p>Avoid entering the area or parking over manhole covers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When no life hazard is present, how should firefighters typically handle vault and manhole fires?

    <p>Let the fire burn while protecting exposures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What hazardous factor should be considered during electrical vault and manhole fires?

    <p>Potential for explosion and release of toxic smoke.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should firefighters avoid doing in the vicinity of manhole covers during a fire incident?

    <p>Parking any vehicles over manhole covers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What principle should guide firefighters' actions during an electrical vault fire with no life hazards?

    <p>Let the fire burn while managing surrounding exposures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one requirement when requesting the power company's response to drop a grid?

    <p>Best address possible</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which piece of information is necessary to properly identify the device involved in the incident?

    <p>Yellow device description number</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which phone number should be provided for efficient communication during an incident response?

    <p>Cell phone number of Incident Commander</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT required to request the response from power companies to drop a grid?

    <p>Cell phone number of another responder</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is essential to ensure when providing contact information during an incident response?

    <p>Ensure a cell phone number of the Incident Commander is provided</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Purpose and Authority

    • Guidelines established for safe response to downed power lines and electrical fires.
    • Authorized by Fire Rescue Administrator.

    Scope

    • Applicable to all Emergency Operations personnel.

    Procedure Overview

    • Operations follow the National Incident Management System (NIMS).

    Personnel Safety

    • Electrical Safety Awareness

      • Be alert to toxic smoke from electrical fires.
      • Consider potential electrocutions and secondary fires.
      • Caution when using water on energized equipment; avoid direct spraying.

    • Scene Considerations

      • Treat all downed power lines as energized.
      • Lockout occurs after three failed re-energization attempts.
      • Power lines may reset or become energized due to various conditions including manual switch operations and nearby live lines.
      • Be aware of "Reel Memory" of power lines that can cause them to curl back or roll.

    Emergency Incident Activities

    • Response to Power Lines Down

      • Conduct a 360-degree size up of the scene.
      • Request the utility company for assistance.
      • Maintain a safe distance, considering all power lines and objects in contact as energized.
      • Establish an Exclusionary Zone, staying away at least one span between power poles.
      • Wait for the utility company to de-energize the lines before approaching.

    • Down Power Lines Involving Vehicles or Structures

      • Perform a size up before any actions.
      • Instruct occupants to remain inside vehicles or structures to avoid electrocution.
      • If evacuation is necessary, advise occupants to jump clear with legs together to avoid simultaneous grounding.

    • Power Pole and Transformer Fires

      • Approach with caution, ensuring the utility company is notified.
      • Identify Exclusionary Zones and protect nearby exposures.
      • Allow pole fires to burn until confirmed de-energized.
      • Extinguishing transformer fires requires utility company involvement, especially for above-ground sources.

    • Electrical Vault and Manhole Fires

      • High explosion risk; consider toxic smoke.
      • Secure the surrounding area and refrain from entering or parking over manholes.
      • Allow fires to burn when life safety isn't compromised and focus on exposure protection.

    • Requests to Shut Down Electrical Grids

      • Necessary in life-threatening situations; must consider secondary hazards like traffic impact.
      • Provide the Communication Center with an accurate address, device description, and Incident Commander's cell number for power company response.

    Supersession History

    • Historical revisions document transitions from SOG #1720 to SOG 300-01, illustrating the evolution of guidelines.

    Purpose and Authority

    • Guidelines aim to ensure safe response to downed power lines and electrical fires.
    • Authority lies with the Fire Rescue Administrator.

    Scope and Procedure

    • Applicable to all Emergency Operations personnel.
    • Operations guided by the National Incident Management System (NIMS).

    Personnel Safety

    • Electrical Safety Awareness

      • Downed power lines presumed energized; potential for electrocution and secondary fires.
      • Avoid spraying water directly on energized equipment; use fog pattern at the pole base.

    • Scene Considerations

      • Always treat downed power lines as energized; lockout occurs after three attempts to re-energize.
      • Lines can become re-energized through manual switches, automatic methods, or close proximity induction.
      • If evacuation is necessary, occupants should jump out with legs together, avoiding contact with the vehicle and ground simultaneously.

    • Fire Situations

      • Conduct a 360-degree size-up of the scene.
      • Request utility company assistance for downed lines, transformers, sub-stations, and electrical vault/manhole fires.
      • Establish an Exclusion Zone; do not enter until utility confirms power is off.
      • Protect exposures; power pole and transformer fires may require waiting for utility intervention.

    Emergency Incident Activities

    • Response to Power Lines Down

      • Repeat the 360-degree size-up and request utility company support.
      • Identify both ends of the downed lines; consider objects in contact as energized.
      • Maintain a safe distance and secure the area, ensuring no entry until utility response.

    • Downed Lines with Vehicles or Structures

      • Do not touch the impacted vehicle or structure; occupants should stay inside until safe.
      • Identify Exclusion Zone and keep safe distance from downed lines.
      • For vault or manhole fires, allow them to burn when there's no risk to life.

    • Requests for Grid Shutdowns

      • In dire situations (e.g., citizen in contact with power lines), request power company grid shutdown.
      • Provide accurate information: address, device description number, and Incident Commander's contact.

    Additional Notes

    • Fires from electrical vaults and manholes carry explosion risks and toxic smoke concerns.
    • Avoid parking over manhole covers and prepare for decontamination if necessary.
    • "Reel Memory" of power lines can lead to unexpected movements after being downed.

    Purpose and Authority

    • Guidelines aim to ensure safe and effective responses to downed power lines and electrical equipment fires.
    • Authority held by Fire Rescue Administrator.

    Scope

    • Applicable to all Emergency Operations personnel.

    General Procedures

    • Operate under the National Incident Management System (NIMS).
    • Emphasize personnel safety and electrical safety awareness.

    Personnel Safety

    • Electrical Hazards:

      • Fires can lead to toxic smoke; always consider risks of electrocution and secondary fires.
      • Avoid spraying water on energized electrical equipment; utilize a fog pattern hose stream at the pole base to protect surroundings.

    • Scene Considerations:

      • Treat downed power lines as energized.
      • Lock-out occurs after three attempts to re-energize; do not assume lines are dead.
      • Danger of power lines re-energizing through various methods, including automatic reclosing and induction.
      • Safety method when exiting vehicle: jump clear with legs together without simultaneous contact with the ground.

    • Fire Response Guidelines:

      • Conduct a 360-degree size-up upon arrival.
      • Request utility company support for de-energization.
      • Recognize potential for explosions, especially with power poles and transformers.
      • Maintain distance from overhead power lines and identify exclusionary zones.
      • Secure area to prevent unauthorized entry.

    Specific Fire Guidelines

    • Power Pole and Transformer Fires:

      • Allow power pole fires to burn until utility confirms power off.
      • Protect exposures for transformer fires; those at ground level should also be allowed to burn.
      • For above-ground transformer fires, use dry chemical extinguishers only from aerial devices.

    • Sub-Station and Manhole Fires:

      • Consultation with utility company essential.
      • High explosion risk and toxic smoke; avoid entering and decontamination may be necessary.
      • Do not park over manhole covers due to back-feed from generators.

    Emergency Incident Activities

    • Response to Downed Power Lines:

      • Conduct a thorough size-up and mark the area.
      • Treat all power lines as energized and move apparatus away.
      • Identify exclusion zones; secure areas from entry and wait for utility support.

    • Downed Lines with Vehicles or Structures:

      • Do not touch the vehicle or structure; occupants should stay inside.
      • Follow similar steps to ensure safety from energized lines.

    • Electrical Grid Shutdown Requests:

      • May be necessary in life-threatening situations; consider other potential hazards.
      • Provide Communication Center with accurate address, device description number, and incident commander's contact number.

    Documentation

    • Supersession history details previous guidelines relating to standard operating procedures for power line incidents.

    Purpose and Authority

    • Guidelines aim to ensure safe and effective responses to downed power lines and electrical equipment fires.
    • Authority held by Fire Rescue Administrator.

    Scope

    • Applicable to all Emergency Operations personnel.

    General Procedures

    • Operate under the National Incident Management System (NIMS).
    • Emphasize personnel safety and electrical safety awareness.

    Personnel Safety

    • Electrical Hazards:

      • Fires can lead to toxic smoke; always consider risks of electrocution and secondary fires.
      • Avoid spraying water on energized electrical equipment; utilize a fog pattern hose stream at the pole base to protect surroundings.

    • Scene Considerations:

      • Treat downed power lines as energized.
      • Lock-out occurs after three attempts to re-energize; do not assume lines are dead.
      • Danger of power lines re-energizing through various methods, including automatic reclosing and induction.
      • Safety method when exiting vehicle: jump clear with legs together without simultaneous contact with the ground.

    • Fire Response Guidelines:

      • Conduct a 360-degree size-up upon arrival.
      • Request utility company support for de-energization.
      • Recognize potential for explosions, especially with power poles and transformers.
      • Maintain distance from overhead power lines and identify exclusionary zones.
      • Secure area to prevent unauthorized entry.

    Specific Fire Guidelines

    • Power Pole and Transformer Fires:

      • Allow power pole fires to burn until utility confirms power off.
      • Protect exposures for transformer fires; those at ground level should also be allowed to burn.
      • For above-ground transformer fires, use dry chemical extinguishers only from aerial devices.

    • Sub-Station and Manhole Fires:

      • Consultation with utility company essential.
      • High explosion risk and toxic smoke; avoid entering and decontamination may be necessary.
      • Do not park over manhole covers due to back-feed from generators.

    Emergency Incident Activities

    • Response to Downed Power Lines:

      • Conduct a thorough size-up and mark the area.
      • Treat all power lines as energized and move apparatus away.
      • Identify exclusion zones; secure areas from entry and wait for utility support.

    • Downed Lines with Vehicles or Structures:

      • Do not touch the vehicle or structure; occupants should stay inside.
      • Follow similar steps to ensure safety from energized lines.

    • Electrical Grid Shutdown Requests:

      • May be necessary in life-threatening situations; consider other potential hazards.
      • Provide Communication Center with accurate address, device description number, and incident commander's contact number.

    Documentation

    • Supersession history details previous guidelines relating to standard operating procedures for power line incidents.

    Power Line Re-Energization Methods

    • Manual operation of a switch allows utility workers to intentionally re-energize power lines as part of routine maintenance or recovery efforts.
    • Automatic re-closing methods enable power lines to restore power automatically after brief outages, enhancing reliability and reducing downtime.
    • Induction from an energized line in close proximity can cause nearby de-energized lines to become energized, which poses safety risks, particularly for maintenance crews.
    • Back-feed conditions occur when generators feed electricity back into the grid, potentially energizing deactivated lines and creating hazards for workers and equipment.

    Purpose & Authority

    • Provides guidelines for response to downed power lines and electrical equipment fires.
    • Authority lies with the Fire Rescue Administrator.

    Scope

    • Applicable to all Emergency Operations personnel.

    Procedure Overview

    • Operate under the National Incident Management System (NIMS).
    • Guidelines designed for general framework across most incidents.

    Personnel Safety

    • Electrical Safety Awareness

      • Electrical equipment fires emit toxic smoke; risks of electrocution and secondary fires are present.
      • Avoid spraying water directly on energized equipment; use fog pattern at pole base to protect surroundings.

    • Scene Considerations

      • Treat all downed power lines as energized.
      • Lockout occurs after multiple attempts to re-energize; never assume a line is dead.
      • Power lines may reset and become energized from switches, automatic methods, or close proximity to energized lines.
      • In emergencies, instruct occupants in vehicles to jump out with legs together to avoid grounding.

    • Fire Situations

      • Conduct a 360-degree size-up for incidents involving power poles, transformers, sub-stations, or electrical vaults.
      • Coordinate with utility companies and be aware of explosion risks.
      • Establish an Exclusionary Zone; secure the area and protect exposures.
      • Allow power pole fires to burn until confirmed de-energized by utilities, and protect exposures for transformer fires.

    Emergency Incident Activities

    • Response to Power Lines Down

      • Perform a 360-degree size-up and request utility response.
      • Consider all lines energized; secure an Exclusionary Zone with a safe distance away from danger.
      • Wait for the utility company to de-energize lines.

    • Involvement with Vehicles or Structures

      • Maintain a safe distance; do not touch the vehicle or structure.
      • Occupants should stay inside until cleared by responders.
      • Protect exposures when vault and manhole fires occur.

    • Requests for Electrical Grid Shutdown

      • May need to request power grid shutdown in life-threatening situations.
      • Provide communication centers with the best address, device description number, and contact details for the incident commander.

    Key Safety Considerations

    • Electrical fires present a high explosion threat; always consider decontamination.
    • Avoid parking vehicles over manhole covers or entering hazardous areas until confirmed safe.
    • Downed lines can exhibit 'Reel Memory' and may have unpredictable movements.

    Purpose and Authority

    • Guidelines aim to ensure safe response to downed power lines and electrical equipment fires.
    • Authority for these guidelines lies with the Fire Rescue Administrator.

    Scope of Guidelines

    • Applicable to all Emergency Operations personnel responding to such incidents.

    Incident Response Procedures

    • Follow the National Incident Management System (NIMS).
    • Emphasize personnel safety and electrical safety awareness.

    Personnel Safety

    • Electrical Equipment Risks:
      • Electrical fires can emit toxic smoke; risk of electrocution and secondary fires must always be assessed.
    • Caution During Firefighting:
      • Avoid direct water application on energized equipment; use a fog pattern at the base of poles to protect surroundings.

    Scene Considerations

    • Treat all downed power lines as energized.
    • Locking out services usually occurs after three attempts to re-energize; do not assume lines are safe.
    • Power lines can reset due to:
      • Manual switch operation.
      • Automatic re-closing methods.
      • Induction effects from nearby energized lines.

    Emergency Incident Activities

    • Initial Response:

      • Conduct a 360-degree size-up of the scene.
      • Notify utility companies promptly to manage hazards.
      • Identify and enforce an exclusionary zone, remaining a safe distance away.

    • Vehicles and Structures:

      • Instruct occupants to stay inside vehicles or structures without attempting contact with downed lines.
      • Maintain a safe distance from any objects touching downed power lines.

    Power Pole, Transformer, and Manhole Fires

    • Conduct a full 360-degree size-up and request utility assistance for these incidents.
    • Identify and secure the exclusionary zone; do not enter until power is confirmed off.
    • Allow pole fires to burn until utility personnel can assist.
    • Protect exposures from transformer and electrical vault fires, avoiding potential toxic smoke and explosion hazards.

    Grid Shut Down Requests

    • For life-threatening situations involving power lines, request the power company to shut down the grid in the area.
    • Provide necessary details including location, device description number, and contact information of the Incident Commander.

    Conclusion

    • Focus on ensuring safety and minimizing risks when dealing with power line incidents.
    • Always prioritize proper protocols for assessing and managing emergencies involving electricity.

    Evacuation Procedure

    • In case of fire or life-threatening situations, occupants must evacuate the vehicle or structure promptly.
    • Instruct occupants to jump free from the vehicle or structure.
    • Legs should be kept together while performing the jump to ensure safety.
    • The technique involves a "hop" method, minimizing contact with both the vehicle or structure and the ground simultaneously.
    • Proper evacuation methods can prevent additional injuries during emergencies.

    Purpose and Authority

    • Guidelines established for responding to downed power lines and electrical equipment fires.
    • Authority lies with the Fire Rescue Administrator.

    Scope

    • Applicable to all Emergency Operations personnel.

    Procedure Overview

    • Operations must adhere to the National Incident Management System (NIMS).

    Personnel Safety

    • Electrical Safety Awareness

      • Hazardous environment with potential for toxic smoke during electrical fires.
      • Caution with water on energized equipment; hose streams conduct electricity.
      • Use fog pattern at the base of power poles, prioritize area protection.

    • Scene Considerations

      • Always treat downed power lines as energized.
      • Lock out occurs after three attempts to re-energize.
      • Power lines can unexpectedly energize due to:
        • Manual switch operation
        • Automatic re-closing methods
        • Induction from nearby energized lines
      • If evacuating a vehicle or structure due to fire, jump away with legs together to avoid grounding.

    • Fire Situations

      • Conduct a 360-degree size-up for incident assessment.
      • Request utility company assistance promptly.
      • Assess explosion risks and establish an exclusion zone; do not enter until the utility has de-energized.
      • Areas with fences should be treated as energized.
      • Protect exposures to prevent secondary fires.
      • Allow power pole fires to burn until confirmed safe by utility personnel.
      • Transformer fires can only be extinguished when utility resources are available, using dry chemical extinguishers from aerial devices if necessary.
      • Extreme caution with electrical vault and manhole fires, avoid entering due to explosion and toxic smoke risks.

    Emergency Incident Activities

    • Response to Downed Power Lines

      • Conduct thorough size-up, request utility support, and consider all lines energized.
      • Maintain a safe distance from downed lines and identify exclusion zones.
      • Stay clear during utility operations to ensure public safety.

    • Handling Downed Lines near Vehicles

      • Maintain a safe perimeter; occupants should remain inside vehicles.
      • Protect exposures and allow fires to burn unless life-threatening.

    • Requesting Grid Shutdowns

      • Necessary when life-threatening situations arise involving downed lines or unconscious persons.
      • Provide necessary information to the communication center for timely power company response.

    Summation

    • Follow established protocols for safety and efficiency during power line incidents.
    • Ensure communication with utility companies is prompt and specific for effective response.

    Electrical Vault and Manhole Fires Considerations

    • High explosion risk associated with electrical vault and manhole fires due to the presence of flammable gases.
    • Toxic smoke may be emitted during fires; appropriate decontamination measures are crucial for safety.
    • Personnel should avoid entering areas near manhole covers to prevent accidents or injuries.
    • Fire apparatus should not be parked over manhole covers to reduce the risk of explosion or further damage.
    • In situations without life hazards, firefighters can prioritize protecting nearby exposures over extinguishing the fire directly, allowing it to burn out safely.

    Purpose and Authority

    • Guidelines aim to ensure safe and effective responses to downed power lines and electrical equipment fires.
    • Authority lies with the Fire Rescue Administrator.

    Scope

    • Applicable to all Emergency Operations personnel.

    National Incident Management System (NIMS)

    • Fire Rescue operations will align with NIMS for structured incident management.

    Personnel Safety

    • Electrical Safety Awareness

      • Electrical fires pose risks like toxic smoke and potential electrocution.
      • Water should be applied cautiously around energized equipment, using a fog pattern aimed at the base of poles.

    • Scene Considerations

      • Always treat downed power lines as energized until confirmed otherwise.
      • Lockout procedures engage after three attempts to re-energize lines; do not assume lines are dead.
      • Power lines can reactivate via manual switches, automatic methods, induction, or generator back-feed.
      • In emergencies, occupants should exit vehicles by jumping, keeping legs together and avoiding parallel contact with the ground.

    • Fire Situations Involving Electrical Equipment

      • Conduct a 360-degree size-up before addressing fires related to power poles, transformers, and substations.
      • Secure utility company support and assess explosion risks.
      • Maintain a safe distance from overhead power lines and establish Exclusionary Zones.
      • Do not enter areas with downed power lines until confirmed de-energized by utility personnel.
      • Consider fences as energized barriers, and protect exposures from nearby fires.
      • Allow power pole fires to burn while awaiting utility confirmation of power being off; manage transformer fires based on their placement and urgency.

    Emergency Incident Activities

    • Response to Downed Power Lines

      • Initial assessments include size-up and utility company requests.
      • Ensure safety by treating all lines as energized and establishing Exclusionary Zones.
      • Wait for utility companies to control downed lines.

    • Down Power Lines Involving Vehicles or Structures

      • Approach incidents carefully; do not touch affected vehicles or structures.
      • Keep occupants safe within their vehicles, and maintain safe distances from downed lines.
      • For vault and manhole fires, allow them to burn if life hazards are absent while protecting nearby exposures.

    • Requests for Electrical Grid Shutdowns

      • In emergencies threatening life, request power company grid shutdowns, considering implications for other services.
      • Provide relevant details, including location, device description, and incident command contact.

    Fire Types Consideration

    • Electrical vault and manhole fires are high-risk for explosions and toxic fumes; no entry or parking is allowed over these areas.
    • Manage transformers based on their elevation and proximity to firefighting resources, ensuring proper extinguishing methods are in place when accessible.

    Requesting Power Company Response

    • Essential to contact the Communication Center for power companies regarding grid outages.
    • Provide the most precise address to ensure a swift response.
    • Include the accurate device description number, indicated in yellow, to specify the affected equipment.
    • Supply the cell phone number of the Incident Commander for direct communication and coordination during the incident.

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    Related Documents

    300-01 POWER LINE INCIDENTS.pdf

    Description

    This quiz covers the guidelines for safely responding to downed power lines and electrical fires as established by the Fire Rescue Administrator. Learn about personnel safety, awareness of electrical hazards, and the framework of the National Incident Management System (NIMS).

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