IMS 104.3.4- Evacuate

Study Notes

At an emergency incident, any communication related to evacuating a structure must be transmitted via radio using the word "EVACUATE".
The term "EVACUATE" indicates to all Toronto Fire Services personnel to immediately remove themselves from the affected area.

The IC (Incident Commander) is responsible for initiating and transmitting an EVACUATE order, but all TFS personnel involved in the incident can initiate an EVACUATE, including communications personnel.
An EVACUATE order must be given when the need to evacuate is immediate, such as in cases of imminent collapse or rapidly changing fire conditions.
The initial transmission for an EVACUATE order must be repeated three times, followed by information for the firefighting crews and Incident Command.

Upon receiving an EVACUATE order or hearing the Air Horn Evacuation Signal, personnel in the evacuation area must:
- Cease operations immediately
- Evacuate to a safe area
- Withdraw or exit via the entry control point and/or sector officer
- Answer a PAR or partial PAR
If crews evacuate the area at a point other than where they entered, they must ensure their exit and PAR status have been confirmed with Entry Control.

Personnel must evacuate the area immediately upon receiving an EVACUATE order or hearing the Air Horn Evacuation Signal.

When an EVACUATE is called, Command is responsible for:
- Ensuring that all EVACUATE messages are acknowledged
- Ensuring that the appropriate actions are carried out without delay
- Conducting a PAR or partial PAR

When an EVACUATE is called, Communications is responsible for:
- Ensuring that Incident Command is aware of the EVACUATE
- Repeating the EVACUATE transmission accompanied by a series of alert tones at the direction of Incident Command.