Emergency Response Equipment Guidelines
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary characteristic of body armor?

  • Waterproof
  • Ballistic resistant (correct)
  • Bullet proof
  • Impact resistant

    • What is essential to check on the body armor's label?

  • Price and vendor details
  • Warranty period and maintenance instructions (correct)
  • Size and weight limits
  • Color and design

    • Which side of the body armor must be facing the threat?

  • Inside label
  • Strike face (correct)
  • Back side
  • Body side

    • When should ballistic protective equipment (BPE) be worn?

    <p>When dispatched to incidents involving potential violence</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What responsibility does the officer in charge (OIC) have regarding BPE?

    <p>Ensure the BPE is worn and maintained appropriately</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where should Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE) be stored?

    <p>In designated areas for easy accessibility</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should officers do if dispatched while out of the station?

    <p>Retrieve and don BPE in staging prior to moving up</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be determined before entering a scene where a violent act has occurred?

    <p>Potential threats and retrieve BPE</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of using body armor according to the guideline?

    <p>To maximize personal safety</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which area is characterized as having a direct and immediate life threat?

    <p>Hot Zone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with the body armor usage procedure?

    <p>All Spring Fire Department personnel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the acronym BPE stand for in this context?

    <p>Ballistic Protective Equipment</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of threats do Soft Armor Inserts protect against?

    <p>Various types including ballistic and blunt force trauma</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the compliance standard for Soft Armor Inserts according to the guideline?

    <p>National Institute of Justice Standards</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic of a Warm Zone?

    <p>Has minimal or mitigated risk after law enforcement action</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the consequence of failing to follow the use and care instructions for body armor?

    <p>Warranties are voided and serious injury or death may occur.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements is true about the training of body armor care?

    <p>All personnel must understand proper care procedures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if the soft body armor inserts show visible damage?

    <p>They must be taken to an authorized dealer or manufacturer for inspection.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should the body armor system be stored to maintain its ballistic performance?

    <p>In a cool, dry place free from extreme conditions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can happen if soft body armor inserts are used in an undersized carrier?

    <p>They may buckle or fold, reducing ballistic performance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What indicates that the body armor system may be considered abused?

    <p>Heavy stains, worn threads, or visible moisture.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key factor that can negatively affect the ballistic performance over time?

    <p>Exposure to extreme wear and environmental conditions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following practices should be avoided with body armor systems?

    <p>Using a carrier not designed for the specific inserts.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is recommended if soft body armor inserts are found to be cracked?

    <p>To immediately consult an authorized dealer for inspection.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What may cause ballistic panels to shift on the user's body?

    <p>Strenuous movements or physical altercations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a user do if they have experienced significant weight changes?

    <p>Take the armor for inspection to an authorized dealer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens if the Soft Body Armor Inserts are not inserted in the correct direction?

    <p>Serious injury or death may occur</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential drawback of edge impacts on body armor performance?

    <p>They can weaken energy dissipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Soft Body Armor Inserts are designed to protect against which type of threats?

    <p>Specific threats as indicated on the label</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the label on the Soft Body Armor Inserts indicate?

    <p>The correct orientation for the panel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact angle poses a greater risk for projectile penetration in Soft Body Armor Inserts?

    <p>Greater angle of impact</p> Signup and view all the answers

    To ensure complete understanding of protection levels, users must do what?

    <p>Consult the label and product data sheet</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What incidents require the wearing of vests?

    <p>Incidents involving stabbings, assaults, and other potential violent incidents</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under what circumstances is a helmet required during an active shooter incident?

    <p>In the warm and hot zone or at the officer's discretion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if damage is found on the Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE)?

    <p>Remove it from service and log it in the tracking system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which cleaning method is NOT recommended for Soft Body Armor Inserts?

    <p>Line dry the inserts after cleaning</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first step in cleaning the Body Armor Carrier?

    <p>Remove the Soft Body Armor Inserts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should never be used when cleaning Soft Body Armor Inserts?

    <p>Bleach in any form</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the recommended drying method for a Body Armor Carrier after washing?

    <p>Lay flat to dry away from sunlight</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential situation where BPE should be donned at the officer's discretion?

    <p>Incidents involving forcible entry into buildings</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the Cold Zone in emergency incidents?

    <p>It is a secure area with no known hazards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which element is essential for the proper use and care of body armor?

    <p>Regular inspection for wear and damage.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines an Active Shooter (A.S.) incident?

    <p>An individual using firearms to harm or kill in a populated area.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of the Fire Chief concerning the body armor guideline?

    <p>To review the guideline annually for accuracy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes a Warm Zone during an incident response?

    <p>It is an area that contains minimal risk but is not secure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is included in the Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE)?

    <p>A helmet, a plate carrier, and soft armor inserts.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are CAI Soft Armor Inserts significant for body armor systems?

    <p>They are manufactured with unique technical specifications.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main threat that Soft Armor Inserts are designed to protect against?

    <p>A combination of multiple types of threats.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can happen to the ballistic performance of Soft Body Armor Inserts if they are stored in high temperatures for extended periods?

    <p>Their ballistic performance may become compromised.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What indicates that a body armor system has been abused?

    <p>Visible moisture and cracked seams.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to inspect Soft Body Armor Inserts regularly?

    <p>To confirm their ballistic performance is not compromised.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What could be a consequence of using Soft Body Armor Inserts in an improperly sized carrier?

    <p>Reduced ballistic coverage and performance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is recommended to do if Soft Body Armor Inserts are found to be cracked?

    <p>Replace them or take them for inspection.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary limitation of body armor that users must understand?

    <p>It is ballistic resistant, not bulletproof.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Exposure to what conditions is known to change the ballistic performance of the Soft Body Armor Inserts?

    <p>Extreme high temperatures and humidity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important to understand the threats against which body armor is designed?

    <p>To confirm if the armor is tested against those threats.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the presence of significant wrinkles or rolls in Soft Body Armor Inserts indicate?

    <p>They may need to be replaced or repaired.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What might result from having voids in ballistic coverage due to an oversized carrier?

    <p>Increased risk of injury or death.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should face the user when wearing body armor according to its label?

    <p>The body side must face the user.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if an officer is dispatched to a scene with potential violence?

    <p>Retrieve and don BPE before leaving the station if possible.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a requirement for storing Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE)?

    <p>It should be kept in designated areas for ease of access.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is understood to be the officer's discretion regarding BPE?

    <p>BPE use can be determined for various incident types.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the label on body armor provide information about?

    <p>NIJ model, serial number, and threat types.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of body armor, what does the term 'strike face' refer to?

    <p>The side designed to face the threat.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if the Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE) shows signs of wear or damage during inspection?

    <p>Remove the BPE from service and log it in the apparatus equipment tracking system.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement is correct regarding the care of Soft Body Armor Inserts?

    <p>They should not be exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under what condition must a helmet be worn by officers during an active shooter incident?

    <p>In the warm and hot zones.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What cleaning method is not advisable for the Body Armor Carrier?

    <p>Hang drying the carrier in direct sunlight.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When are vests required to be worn?

    <p>During shootings, stabbings, and other violent incidents.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a critical step after washing the Body Armor Carrier?

    <p>Ensure the inserts are reinserted with correct orientation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of incidents require officers to don full ballistic protective equipment?

    <p>Incidents involving potential danger, such as forcible entry.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should not be done when cleaning Soft Body Armor Inserts?

    <p>Expose to bleach or strong cleaners.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What may occur if a user experiences significant changes in body weight while using body armor?

    <p>Previously protected areas may become exposed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can the orientation of Soft Body Armor Inserts affect their effectiveness?

    <p>Improper insertion can lead to serious injury.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key factor affecting the ballistic performance of Soft Body Armor Inserts?

    <p>The angle at which an impact occurs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens when a user does not check the product data sheet or label for their Soft Body Armor Inserts?

    <p>They may misuse the armor and face injuries.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about edge impacts on body armor is true?

    <p>They can greatly compromise energy dissipation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it important for Soft Body Armor Inserts to fit correctly?

    <p>Improper fit can lead to body areas becoming exposed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What could result from the improper handling of Soft Body Armor Inserts?

    <p>Development of set wrinkles in the material.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What risk is associated with using Soft Body Armor Inserts designed for specific threats against different types of threats?

    <p>The inserts will be less effective against additional threats.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of threats does body armor specifically need to be designed to protect against?

    <p>Specific threats identified by the wearer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be the correct orientation of body armor when being worn?

    <p>Body side facing the body and strike face facing outward</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the officer in charge (OIC) responsible for regarding Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE)?

    <p>To ensure BPE is worn and maintained according to guidelines</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What important information does the label on body armor provide besides compliance and warranty details?

    <p>Identification of the strike face and body side</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under what circumstances is it prefered to don the Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE)?

    <p>When dispatched to a scene where a violent act has occurred</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of BPE storage is critical for its maintenance?

    <p>It should be stored in designated areas to prevent damage</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should BPE be used if dispatched while out of the station?

    <p>BPE should be donned prior to scene entry from staging</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should an officer do if there are visible damages on their BPE?

    <p>Notify a superior and replace it as soon as possible</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a consequence of storing body armor in high humidity environments?

    <p>Decreased ballistic performance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens if Soft Body Armor Inserts are placed in an oversized carrier?

    <p>Ballistic coverage may have voids leading to injury</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How might exposure to extreme conditions affect body armor over time?

    <p>It can negatively impact ballistic performance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following indicates that the body armor system has been abused?

    <p>Cracked seams visible on the outer carrier</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done immediately if the Soft Body Armor Inserts show signs of damage?

    <p>Consult with a manufacturer or authorized dealer for inspection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a warning about the use of Soft Body Armor Inserts?

    <p>Using them in undersized carriers can cause buckling</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be avoided when inspecting Soft Body Armor Inserts?

    <p>Ignoring the edge seal of the ballistic panel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Failure to follow use and care instructions for body armor can lead to what?

    <p>Voiding of warranties and potential injury</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done first if damage is detected on the Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE)?

    <p>Remove the BPE from service.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which action is NOT recommended when cleaning Soft Body Armor Inserts?

    <p>Hang the inserts to dry.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During which scenarios should vests be mandatorily worn according to the guidelines?

    <p>In active shooter incidents.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the prescribed orientation of Soft Body Armor Inserts when inserted into the carrier?

    <p>Face towards the threat as marked.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which zone of an active shooter incident is wearing a helmet required?

    <p>Hot zone.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant risk of not following the drying instructions for the Body Armor Carrier?

    <p>It might lose its ballistic integrity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What consequence is likely if Soft Body Armor Inserts are dry cleaned?

    <p>They can be irreparably damaged.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the proper action to take if a Body Armor Carrier shows visible wear?

    <p>Remove the carrier from service.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the responsibilities of all personnel regarding the body armor guideline?

    <p>All personnel must know and comply with the procedure at all times.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key distinction between Active Assailant (A.A.) and Active Shooter (A.S.) incidents?

    <p>A.S. refers specifically to harm with lethal intent, while A.A. may include various methods.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In relation to zones during incidents, which statement about the Cold Zone is correct?

    <p>It is an area with little or no threat due to distance from the active threat.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of the Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE) as described in the guideline?

    <p>To maximize personal safety through protection against specific threats.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements regarding Soft Armor Inserts is correct?

    <p>Soft Armor Inserts are designed to mitigate risks of ballistic threats and blunt force trauma.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factors determine whether an area is defined as a Warm Zone?

    <p>A zone with known hazards that may pose indirect risks to life.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect is NOT part of the recommended care for Body Armor according to the guideline?

    <p>Storing body armor in high temperatures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately reflects the role of the Fire Chief regarding the body armor guideline?

    <p>The Fire Chief is responsible for reviewing the guideline annually to ensure its accuracy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor can result in previously protected areas becoming exposed in a body armor system?

    <p>Substantial weight gain or loss</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the consequence of not properly following the orientation instructions for Soft Body Armor Inserts?

    <p>Increased risk of serious injury or death</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes a scenario where the ballistic performance of Soft Body Armor Inserts might be compromised?

    <p>Impacts occurring at a steep angle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do Soft Body Armor Inserts dissipate kinetic energy?

    <p>Across the fibers of the ballistic panel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What types of threats are Soft Body Armor Inserts specifically designed to protect against?

    <p>Specific threats as indicated on the product label</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What physical condition in the user is likely to affect the fit and protection of Soft Body Armor Inserts?

    <p>Frequent alterations in body shape or contour</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential risk of close-edge impacts on the armor system?

    <p>Decreased ballistic performance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which maintenance activity is recommended if Soft Body Armor Inserts show visible cracks?

    <p>Taking them to a professional for evaluation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Purpose and Scope

    • This guideline aims to maximize personal safety for emergency responders by combining body armor use with safety procedures.
    • It applies to all department personnel who respond to or assist in emergency incidents.

    Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE)

    • Consists of an IIIA Ballistic Helmet and a Universal Plate Carrier with Level III Ballistic Plate and Soft Armor inserts.
    • Soft Armor Inserts are manufactured by Covert Armor International, LLC (CAI), and comply with National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Standards.
    • Soft Armor Inserts are designed to be "ballistic resistant", not "bullet proof", and only protect the area covered.

    BPE Use

    • BPE is assigned to each fire apparatus and stored for easy access.
    • It must be worn according to manufacturer's guidelines.
    • BPE should not be worn during fire suppression activities.

    Situations Requiring BPE

    • When dispatched to a call involving violence or potential violence, obtain information from Comm Center before committing to the location.
    • Retrieve and wear BPE prior to departure from the station (preferred), or at a staging area.
    • If advised to stage for law enforcement, stage well away from the scene.
    • The Officer in Charge (OIC) has the discretion to determine the use of BPE for other incidents.
    • BPE should be worn, but not limited to, shootings, stabbings, assaults, potential violent incidents, or entry into a residence where the occupant might be startled.
    • Helmets and vests (Full BPE) are required on all Active Shooter incidents unless in the cold zone or at the officer's discretion.
    • The helmet shall be worn in the warm and hot zones of an active shooter incident or at the officer's discretion.

    Inspection, Care and Maintenance

    • BPE and all components should be inspected for cleanliness and damage during apparatus equipment checks.
    • Damaged BPE must be removed from service and logged in the apparatus equipment tracking system.

    Cleaning Instructions

    • Soft Body Armor Inserts:
      • Gently clean with a damp sponge and mild detergent/soap.
      • Wipe dry and lay flat.
      • Do not hang or line dry.
      • Do not place in the sun.
      • Do not dry clean, commercially launder, or expose to bleach.
    • Body Armor Carrier:
      • Remove soft armor inserts.
      • Wash gently in cold water with mild detergent.
      • Lay flat or hang to dry.
      • Do not place in the sun.
      • Do not dry clean, commercially launder, or expose to bleach.

    Warnings and Important Considerations

    • Failure to follow use and care instructions will void all warranties and could lead to injury or death.
    • The body armor system is composed of multiple parts (soft inserts, carrier, and hard inserts if applicable).
    • Do not abuse the body armor system; if heavily worn, it should be deemed abused and no longer subject to any warranties.
    • Damaged soft armor inserts should be inspected by an armor OEM or authorized dealer.
    • Do not store body armor in extreme temperatures or humidity, as this can negatively impact ballistic performance.
    • Do not use soft armor inserts in a carrier not originally designed for them.
    • Soft armor inserts offer protection only to the areas they cover.
    • Significant weight changes or improper fitting can affect protection.
    • Soft armor inserts must be inserted correctly (facing the right way) to ensure proper protection.
    • Edge impacts can negatively impact ballistic performance.
    • Soft armor has specific protection levels and may not protect against all threats,
    • Consult the label or product data sheet to understand the level of protection each insert provides.

    Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE) Purpose

    • To ensure the safety of Spring Fire Department personnel during emergency incidents
    • To establish a clear procedure for the use and care of BPE

    Scope and Responsibility

    • Applies to all Spring Fire Department personnel responding to or assisting in emergency incidents
    • All personnel are responsible for understanding and adhering to the outlined procedure
    • The Fire Chief or designee reviews the guideline annually for accuracy

    BPE Components

    • Consists of IIIA Ballistic Helmet, Universal Plate Carrier, Soft Armor Inserts, and Level III Ballistic Plate
    • Soft Armor Inserts manufactured by Covert Armor International, LLC (CAI)
    • Compliant with National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Standards
    • Soft Armor Inserts protect against specific threats, such as ballistic threats, stabbing, fragmentation, and blunt force trauma

    Important Considerations

    • Body armor is "ballistic resistant" and not "bulletproof"
    • Only provides protection when worn
    • Protection limited to the area of the body covered
    • Label identifies the threat type, NIJ model, compliance statement, maintenance instructions, and strike face/body side

    BPE Storage

    • Assigned to each apparatus and stored in designated areas within the apparatus
    • Storage ensures accessibility and prevents damage

    BPE Usage

    • Worn in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.
    • NOT worn during fire suppression activities
    • Officer in charge of the apparatus responsible for ensuring BPE is worn and maintained

    Determining BPE Usage

    • Retrieval and use of BPE prior to departure for any incident where a violent act has occurred or there is a potential threat of violence
    • If dispatched while out of the station, retrieve and don BPE in staging
    • Officer in charge has discretion to determine the use of BPE for other types of incidents

    Required Incident Types

    • Incidents involving shootings, stabbings, assaults, potential violent incidents, and potentially dangerous entries into residences or buildings

    Active Shooter Incidents

    • Full BPE (helmet and vest) worn unless in the cold zone or at the officer's discretion
    • Helmet always worn in the warm and hot zone or at the officer's discretion

    Inspection, Care, and Maintenance

    • BPE and all components inspected for cleanliness, damage, abuse, wear, or tear during equipment checks.
    • Damaged BPE removed from service and logged in apparatus equipment tracking system

    Proper Care of Soft Body Armor Inserts

    • Remove inserts from carrier
    • Gently wipe with damp sponge using mild laundry detergent or antimicrobial soap
    • Wipe off excess soap with clean water
    • Lay flat and wipe dry (DO NOT hang, line dry, or place in the sun)
    • Ensure inserts are inserted into the carrier correctly, following "STRIKE FACE" or "BODY SIDE" markings
    • DO NOT dry clean, commercially launder, or expose to bleach

    Proper Care of Body Armor Carrier

    • Remove inserts
    • Wash carrier on gentle cycle in cold water using mild laundry detergent
    • Lay flat or hang dry (DO NOT place in the sun)
    • Ensure inserts are inserted back into the carrier correctly, following "STRIKE FACE" or "BODY SIDE" markings
    • DO NOT dry clean, commercially launder, or expose to bleach

    Use and Care Warnings

    • Failure to follow instructions voids all warranties and could lead to serious injury or death

    Additional Warnings

    • Do Not Abuse Body Armor System: If heavily worn, deemed abused and no longer subject to warranties
    • Inspect System: Broken, interrupted, cracked, or damaged inserts require immediate inspection by manufacturer
    • Storage: Avoid storing in extreme conditions, as this could affect ballistic performance
    • Improper Use: Using inserts in a carrier not designed for them can negatively affect performance
    • Protective Areas and Coverage: Inserts protect only the areas they cover; improper fit or substantial weight changes can reduce coverage
    • Orientation of Inserts: The "STRIKE FACE" and "BODY SIDE" must be correctly oriented, as failure affects protection
    • Edge Impacts: Striking the edge of the system can negatively impact performance
    • Obliquity Impacts: Greater impact angle increases the chance of penetration or slippage, increasing potential for injury
    • Multi-Threat Protection: Inserts are designed for specific threats and may not be resistant to all threats. Check labels and data sheets for threat levels

    Ballistic Protective Equipment (BPE) Guideline

    • This guideline pertains to all department personnel that respond to emergencies.
    • The guideline outlines the use and care of ballistic protective equipment (BPE).
    • The BPE consists of an IIIA Ballistic Helmet and a Universal Plate Carrier with Soft Armor inserts and a Level III Ballistic Plate.
    • The BPE is manufactured to specific guidelines and technical specifications in accordance with Quality Assurance Systems ISO 9001:2008 and BA9000.
    • The BPE is assigned to each apparatus and stored in designated areas for easy accessibility and damage prevention.

    BPE Use

    • All BPE shall be worn in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations and guidelines.
    • BPE shall not be worn during fire suppression activities.
    • The officer in charge of the apparatus is responsible for ensuring BPE is worn and maintained in specific situations:
      • When responding to calls where a violent act has occurred or there is a potential threat of violence.
      • If dispatched while out of the station, retrieve and don BPE in staging prior to move up.
      • If advised to stage for law enforcement, stage well away from the scene out of the direct line-of sight from the incident location.
      • The OIC has the discretion to determine the use of BPE to any other type of incident.
    • Vests shall be worn, but not limited to the following incidents:
      • Shootings
      • Stabbings
      • Assaults
      • Other potential violent incidents
      • Incidents involving entry into a residence or building with the potential of startling the occupant.
    • Helmets and Vest (Full BPE) shall be worn on all Active Shooter incidents unless in the cold zone or officer's discretion.
    • The helmet shall be worn in the warm and hot zone of an active shooter incident or at the officer's discretion.

    BPE Inspection, Care and Maintenance

    • The Ballistic Protective Equipment and all components will be checked for cleanliness, signs of damage, abuse, wear or tear during apparatus equipment checks.
    • If damage is found, the BPE will be removed from service and logged in the apparatus equipment tracking system.

    Proper Care of Soft Body Armor Inserts

    • Remove the Soft Body Armor Inserts from the carrier.
    • Gently wipe the Soft Body Armor Inserts with a damp sponge and a mixture of cold water and mild laundry detergent or antimicrobial soap.
    • Wipe off excess soap with clean water and a damp sponge.
    • Lay flat and wipe dry.
    • DO NOT hang or line dry.
    • DO NOT place in the sun.
    • Ensure Soft Body Armor Inserts are inserted into the carrier in the correct orientation, indicated by "STRIKE FACE" OR "BODY SIDE" markings on the label.
    • DO NOT dry clean Soft Body Armor Inserts.
    • DO NOT commercially launder Soft Body Armor Inserts.
    • DO NOT expose Soft Body Armor Inserts to bleach (liquid or vapor).

    Proper Care of Body Armor Carrier

    • Remove the Soft Body Armor Inserts from the carrier and place to the side.
    • Wash the Body Armor Carrier on the gentle cycle in cold water using a very mild laundry detergent.
    • Lay flat or hang dry.
    • DO NOT place in the sun.
    • Ensure Soft Body Armor Inserts are inserted back into the carrier in the correct orientation, indicated by "STRIKE FACE" OR "BODY SIDE" markings on the label.
    • DO NOT dry clean Body Armor Carrier.
    • DO NOT commercially launder Body Armor Carrier.
    • DO NOT expose Body Armor Carrier to bleach (liquid or vapor).

    Use and Care Warnings

    • Failure to follow use and care instructions will [VOID] all warranties, including ballistic performance warranty, and could lead to serious injury or death.
    • Do Not Abuse Your Body Armor System: Heavy wear and tear will deem the BPE abused and no longer subject to warranties.
    • Inspect Your Body Armor System: If damage is found, immediately take the BPE to an armor original equipment manufacturer or authorized dealer for an inspection.
    • Storing Your Body Armor System: Storing the BPE in extreme conditions (high temperatures and high humidity) may negatively impact the ballistic performance.
    • Improper Use: Using the BPE in a manner that is not intended can result in serious injury or death:
      • Installing Soft Body Armor Inserts into an undersized carrier can cause the inserts to buckle or fold, which may result in set wrinkles that reduce the ballistic performance.
      • Installing Soft Body Armor Inserts into oversized carriers can cause voids in ballistic coverage, which may lead to serious injury or death.
    • Protective Areas and Coverage: Soft Body Armor Inserts offer protection to only those areas that they cover.
    • Orientation of the Soft Armor Inserts: Soft Body Armor Inserts are designed to defeat certain threats only if properly inserted into the outer carrier facing in the correct direction. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious injury or death.
    • Edge Impacts and Ballistic Performance: The body armor system's ability to dissipate energy may be negatively impacted if struck by a threat close to an edge.
    • Obliquity Impacts and Ballistic Performance: Soft Body Armor Inserts are designed for both frontal and angle impacts, but a greater impact angle increases the possibility of a projectile penetrating the BPE.
    • Multi-Threat Protection: Soft Body Armor Inserts are designed for specific threats, and are not intended to be resistant to all threats. Review the label and/or product data sheet to understand the level of protection each insert provides.

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    Description

    This quiz covers the essential guidelines for using ballistic protective equipment (BPE) for emergency responders. It focuses on the specifications of BPE, proper usage protocols, and situations that necessitate wearing protective gear. Understanding these guidelines is vital for ensuring personal safety in high-risk environments.

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