420-03 Large Area Search

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of using a search rope during a Primary Search in a large area?

To increase visibility in low-light conditions

To prevent the search team from getting lost

To secure the search team to a stable point (correct)

To assist in communicating with the command center

When utilizing a dry fire hose line during a search, what is the minimum length it should be able to deploy?

200 feet (correct)

250 feet

100 feet

500 feet

In which scenario may the search company request to charge the hose line during an operation?

Upon reaching the midpoint of the search

After securing all exits in the building

When they feel threatened by rising heat (correct)

Once the primary search is completed

What should the search team provide during their operation as per SOG 210-01?

Progress Reports Signup and view all the answers

What action can the search company take if they encounter immediate danger during their operation?

Activate a Mayday call Signup and view all the answers

According to the guidelines, how should a search rope be handled when deployed?

It must be secured to a significant non-movable object Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary responsibility of the person holding the search companies' passport?

To maintain accountability and ensure the entire area is searched Signup and view all the answers

In large area searches, what is often critical for first arriving personnel to perform effectively?

Establishing a minimum crew integrity of five personnel Signup and view all the answers

How should commercial structures with open floor plans be categorized?

As 'big box' structures Signup and view all the answers

What factor must be considered when determining the necessity to send firefighters inside a large area?

The life hazards of occupants against extent of fire conditions Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining characteristic of very large structures in the context of fire rescue?

They generally present significant challenges for search and rescue Signup and view all the answers

What does a proper risk benefit analysis in a large area search help to determine?

Whether to enter the structure based on life hazards and fire extent Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true regarding the primary search in large structures?

It often involves multiple companies covering specific areas Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes commercial structures from residential ones in large area searches?

Commercial structures often have more complex layouts requiring coordination Signup and view all the answers

What is one primary responsibility of the Incident Commander during an incident?

Establish accountability and assign an Accountability Officer Signup and view all the answers

When dealing with large area searches, what equipment is specifically required?

At least one Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC) Signup and view all the answers

What should the Incident Commander ensure regarding access and egress doors?

They should be forced open as necessary to allow egress Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended practice for conducting primary searches in large areas?

Practicing effective air management practices Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a Branch Director in an incident command scenario?

To lead the Search operation if assigned by the Incident Commander Signup and view all the answers

Why must ventilation be performed carefully in large structures?

To limit ventilation flow paths that could affect firefighter safety Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of establishing a Rapid Intervention Crew (RIG)?

To increase preparedness for potential Mayday situations Signup and view all the answers

What should be prioritized when assigning ventilation work in large or commercial buildings?

Performing ventilation according to established standard operating guidelines Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Purpose and Authority

Aims to establish safe procedures for Large Area Search operations.
Authorized by the Fire Rescue Administrator.

Scope

Applies to all Emergency Operations personnel involved in searches.

General Considerations

Large areas complicate victim searches and fire location efforts.
Structures classified according to SOG 420-04 Rapid Intervention Crew, particularly for commercial “big box” designs.
Multiple fire companies may conduct Primary Searches in expansive structures.
Accountability maintained through designated individuals holding search company passports.

First Arriving Responsibilities

Minimum of five personnel required for effective Primary Search.
Accurate size-up of the situation is crucial for risk-benefit analysis to protect occupant safety.

Incident Command Responsibilities

The Incident Commander must:
- Ensure personnel accountability with an assigned Accountability Officer.
- Establish a Rapid Intervention Group due to heightened Mayday risks.
Should consider designating a lead for the Search operation and ensure proper access and egress are established.
Ventilation must be controlled to manage airflow in complex structures.

Search Company Responsibilities

Personnel must adhere to safety guidelines during searches in low visibility conditions.
At least one Thermal Imaging Camera is mandatory.
Situational awareness and air management practices must be practiced.
Options for conducting Primary Searches include:
- Search rope, anchored to a stable object.
- Fire hose lines, capable of being charged if needed.
Continuous Progress Reports should be given according to SOG 210-01 Communications.
Can activate a "Mayday" following specified safety and survival protocols.

Supersession History

Previous guidelines have been updated and expanded upon, with the latest iteration issued on 05/21/2018.

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Description

This quiz covers the procedures and authority behind Large Area Search operations in emergency situations. It focuses on the challenges presented by large areas and the classification of structures for effective searches. Designed for all Emergency Operations personnel, it emphasizes safe and coordinated search efforts.