Fire Alarm Response Protocols

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What is the required response for a Fire Alarm 'High-Rise' (FAH)?

(1) Engine and (1) Ladder

(1) Engine, (1) Ladder, and (1) Battalion Chief

Single company response

(2) Engines, (1) Ladder, and (1) Battalion Chief (correct)

Which of the following statements accurately describes the procedure for downgrading alarm assignments?

Alarm assignments can never be downgraded once dispatched.

A Battalion Chief can downgrade a 'B' Alarm after receiving information. (correct)

Only the responding companies can determine if an alarm assignment needs to be downgraded.

Only the Fire Alarm Office can downgrade alarm assignments after dispatch.

In the context of fire alarms, what does 'Modified Alarm Response' entail?

Response without the need for emergency procedures

Response by multiple companies regardless of the situation

Response by the closest appropriate company (correct)

Cancellation of the alarm assignment before a response

What is the primary role of the Battalion Chief during a 'B' Alarm?

To downgrade or cancel the assignment based on new information Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes a Fire Alarm 'A' (FA) response?

(1) Engine and (1) Ladder Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following occupancies would typically require a Fire Alarm 'B' (FAB)?

Nursing home Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic feature of a Fire Alarm 'High Rise' (FAH)?

Includes commercial and residential buildings over six stories Signup and view all the answers

In a Modified Alarm Response, who is responsible for initiating the response?

The Fire Alarm Office with ES-2's approval Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following types of occupancy would NOT fall under Fire Alarm 'A' (FA)?

Hotels Signup and view all the answers

What determines the need for applying a Modified Alarm Response?

Availability of resources Signup and view all the answers

For which type of alarm will a Fire Alarm 'B' (FAB) be sent?

Water flow alarms Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of establishing a formal staging area?

To facilitate safe apparatus movement and assembly Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the Staging Area Manager is correct?

The first-due engine will automatically become the Staging Area Manager if none is assigned. Signup and view all the answers

What occurs if the initial Staging Area Manager is a ladder company?

The first arriving Columbus engine company will assume the role. Signup and view all the answers

What is the procedure when a staging area is designated but no Staging Area Manager is assigned?

The Fire Alarm Office assigns the first-due engine as the manager. Signup and view all the answers

How does the Incident Commander inform future incoming companies of the staging area?

Through the Fire Alarm Office using the designated battalion talkgroup. Signup and view all the answers

When will Level II Staging automatically take place?

When dispatched to a multiple alarm incident. Signup and view all the answers

What factors determine the location of the staging area?

Distance from the Command Post and emergency scene Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the Staging Area Manager?

To coordinate the movement and task assignment of the staged companies. Signup and view all the answers

What happens if no staging area is designated for a multiple alarm incident?

The Fire Alarm Office will announce a Staging Area Manager who will designate the location. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the ideal placement of a staging area?

Far from both the Command Post and the emergency scene for safety. Signup and view all the answers

What action must the first company commander take upon arriving at the staging area?

Inform the Incident Commander of their arrival. Signup and view all the answers

Who assumes the role of Staging Area Manager if the initial commander is from a ladder company?

The first arriving engine company officer. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary communication channel for the Staging Area Manager?

B# IC talkgroup. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the protocol for companies responding to the staging area?

They will report in person to the Staging Area Manager. Signup and view all the answers

What should companies do with their warning lights upon arriving at the staging area?

Turn them off unless needed for protection. Signup and view all the answers

When does communication from dispatched companies occur on the 'B# Staging' talkgroup?

Only when they are assigned a task on the fireground. Signup and view all the answers

What is the radio designation for the person managing the staging area?

Staging Area Manager. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Staging Area Manager do upon arrival at the staging area?

Notify the Incident Commander of their location. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary responsibility of the Staging Area Manager regarding the assignment of companies?

Direct companies to report to designated Divisions or Groups. Signup and view all the answers

How does the Staging Area Manager ensure effective coordination with other agencies?

By coordinating with the police for necessary access blocking. Signup and view all the answers

What method of parking is recommended for the Staging Area Manager to maintain organization in the staging area?

Diagonal head-out parking to facilitate vehicle response. Signup and view all the answers

What must the Staging Area Manager do when the resource levels in the staging area becomes critically low?

Advise the Incident Commander of the depletion. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of the Staging Area Manager?

Determining the staffing levels of all responding units. Signup and view all the answers

What position should the Staging Area Manager assume for visibility and accessibility?

A visible and accessible area with emergency lights activated. Signup and view all the answers

When can the Staging Area Manager utilize the Staging Talkgroup?

When the Incident Commander requests additional resources. Signup and view all the answers

What key aspect should the Staging Area Manager maintain related to equipment?

Accountability for all staged resources and specialized equipment. Signup and view all the answers

How should the Staging Area Manager handle communication about available companies?

Provide periodic reports as necessary. Signup and view all the answers

What action must the Staging Area Manager take to indicate the best direction of response for incoming companies?

Utilize emergency lights to guide companies. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Staging Area Manager do if a major medical emergency requires a separate staging area?

Communicate the need to the Incident Commander and Fire Alarm Office. Signup and view all the answers

When Level II Staging is established, what is the expected action for Medics and EMS Supervisors?

Report to the staging area for deployment. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes the relationship between the Staging Area Manager and the Fire Alarm Office?

The Staging Area Manager uses the Fire Alarm Office for all communications and resource requests. Signup and view all the answers

What role does an EMS supervisor play during an incident when Level II Staging is in effect?

They assist the Staging Area Manager in organizing EMS personnel and vehicles. Signup and view all the answers

When the Staging Area Manager acknowledges the arrival of medics, what is their subsequent responsibility?

To communicate instructions from the Incident Commander to the medic personnel. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first priority in the RECEO VS action plan during a fire in a residential area?

Rescue of trapped individuals Signup and view all the answers

In the RECEO VS protocol, what is meant by 'Confinement'?

Restricting the fire to a specific area or structure Signup and view all the answers

What action should be prioritized after the rescue of occupants during a fire?

Controlling the spread of fire to adjacent structures Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following functions is typically performed at any point during firefighting operations according to the RECEO VS model?

Ventilation and Salvage Signup and view all the answers

What should be the main concern when the situation allows for fire brigade approach during a rescue operation?

Positioning hose crews to protect occupants Signup and view all the answers

What phase of the RECEO VS protocol deals with inspecting for rekindle possibilities after initial firefighting efforts?

Overhaul Signup and view all the answers

When implementing the RECEO VS strategy, which function is dedicated to ensuring that the fire does not spread to nearby structures?

Exposure Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended size for supply lines when responding to residential fires?

5" LDH Signup and view all the answers

When should backup lines be put in place during a fire attack?

As soon as possible after an interior attack is initiated Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the use of ground ladders in firefighting operations?

Deploying them is necessary when any floor exceeds ground level Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if interior crews expect to use more than 25% of the vehicle's water tank capacity?

Lay and charge supply lines Signup and view all the answers

What type of supply line can be used for refilling tanks or maintaining water supply during overhaul?

3" Supply lines Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of directing a stream of water at a high angle through the bottom half of an opening during a transitional fire attack?

To deflect water off the ceiling and enhance cooling. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Incident Commander do if a transitional attack is initiated?

Announce the transitional attack over the assigned talk group. Signup and view all the answers

What is advised regarding the nozzle operation during a transitional fire attack?

Maintain a steady flow without rotation to avoid gas flow issues. Signup and view all the answers

After achieving knockdown with a transitional attack, what is the recommended subsequent action?

Immediately proceed with a direct attack into the fire compartment. Signup and view all the answers

How does maintaining an exterior line during a transitional fire attack benefit the operation?

It serves as a backup for potential re-ignition or second application. Signup and view all the answers

What advantage does deploying multiple lines simultaneously during a transitional fire attack provide?

It allows for a coordinated response for more effective fire control. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Incident Commander assess to determine the necessity of a transitional fire attack?

Whether there are visible flames venting from accessible openings. Signup and view all the answers

What must be established before firefighters enter a structure with a basement fire?

A charged hoseline Signup and view all the answers

Why should a thermal imaging camera not be solely relied on during a basement fire situation?

It cannot assess the structural integrity of the floor above. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical step to take when heavy smoke or fire conditions are present upon arrival at a basement fire?

Do not place firefighters above the fire area before applying water. Signup and view all the answers

When initiating an attack from an uncontrolled exterior basement access, when should ventilation from above be initiated?

After water has been applied to the fire. Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters avoid doing before applying water on a suspected basement fire?

Operating over the fire area Signup and view all the answers

What are firefighters advised to do if they find no visible fire from the exterior and external access to the basement is not available?

Initiate an interior attack using the closest access to the basement stairs. Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach when there is a confirmed basement fire and no visible flames upon arrival?

Conduct a transition fire attack if applicable. Signup and view all the answers

What could be a dangerous effect of improperly ventilating a basement fire?

Increased fire intensity due to flow paths being created. Signup and view all the answers

What specific announcement should be made once the approximate location of a basement fire is determined?

Announce the location and attack strategy over the radio. Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct initial action if a basement fire is suspected after completing the 360 survey?

Attempt a Transitional Fire Attack. Signup and view all the answers

Which tactic should be avoided to ensure firefighter safety during a basement fire?

Operating directly above the fire area before applying water. Signup and view all the answers

In the case of no visible fire upon arrival and lack of exterior access, what should firefighters do?

Begin the attack from the nearest above entry to the basement. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical consideration when ventilating a basement fire?

Coordinate ventilation with the presence of ventilation openings to avoid flow path hazards. Signup and view all the answers

What must be established before entry into a structure during a basement fire?

A charged hoseline. Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct response for the first alarm in a standard fire situation?

2 Engines, 1 Ladder, and 1 Battalion Chief Signup and view all the answers

During Level I Staging with nothing showing, what is the primary role of the Investigation Group?

To initiate Lobby Control Signup and view all the answers

What should the second engine do during Level I Staging when smoke or fire is identified?

Report to the Fire Attack Group on the floor below the fire Signup and view all the answers

In a high-rise fire response, what is the required initial response units?

4 Engines, 2 Ladders, 1 Rescue, and 2 Battalion Chiefs Signup and view all the answers

What are all companies required to bring to their reporting location during a high-rise fire?

Passports and Small Status Board Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the first engine during the high-rise incident?

To report to the lobby and establish the Fire Attack Group Signup and view all the answers

What should the second engine operator do regarding the water supply during a high-rise fire response?

Coordinate with the first engine operator on water supply and pumping Signup and view all the answers

During a Level I Staging with smoke or fire showing, what is the primary action of the Incident Command?

Upgrade the assignment to a High-Rise Fire Assignment Signup and view all the answers

Which protocol involves following Level III Accountability procedures for High-Rise Incidents?

Report of a Fire in a High Rise Signup and view all the answers

What should the first engine operator do in a scenario where a fire department connection is operational?

Coordinate with the second engine operator for water supply. Signup and view all the answers

How should the second engine operate its pump if it is equipped with a two-stage setup?

In the pressure mode. Signup and view all the answers

What action is required when no fire department connection is present or is out of service?

An alternate water supply must be established. Signup and view all the answers

What should be the primary responsibility of the third engine upon its arrival?

Establish Lobby Control/Building Systems Group. Signup and view all the answers

Which equipment is NOT required for the fourth engine when forming the Rapid Intervention Team (RIT)?

Aerial ladder apparatus. Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial action for the interior ladder crew when first arriving at a fire incident?

Join the Fire Attack Group. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the responsibilities of the Lobby Control established by the third engine?

Locate initial accountability and assume lobby control responsibilities. Signup and view all the answers

What must the crew of the fourth engine do to prepare for their operation?

Bring hand tools along with RIT equipment. Signup and view all the answers

How does the second engine's operator coordinate their actions?

With the first engine operator regarding water supply and pumping. Signup and view all the answers

What equipment should the third engine obtain for Lobby Accountability?

A large status board. Signup and view all the answers

Which floor areas should be prioritized for searching during an incident?

The floor above the fire and the top floor Signup and view all the answers

What is the first task assigned to the EMS Supervisor upon arrival at an incident?

Establish the Medical Branch Signup and view all the answers

What equipment is essential for the second battalion chief to bring when reporting to the Command Post?

Status Board and personal protective equipment (PPE) Signup and view all the answers

During a working fire in a high-rise, how many additional companies does the Fire Alarm Office automatically dispatch?

Two engines, two ladders, one battalion chief, and others Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the Level I Staging guideline is true?

Units report based on incident goals and objectives. Signup and view all the answers

What should be the primary focus of the first arriving medic at an incident with no victims?

Assist the Lobby Control Group. Signup and view all the answers

What is the responsibility of the first battalion chief upon arrival at a high-rise incident?

Assume a fixed command at the scene. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of high-rise fire response, what is a crucial characteristic of the exterior Command Post?

It allows for effective management of resources. Signup and view all the answers

What is a situation that mandates the Incident Commander to initiate a personnel accountability report?

A firefighter is reported missing or trapped. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary action required when a crew leader notes an absent member?

Notify the Incident Commander directly. Signup and view all the answers

How often must the Incident Commander perform a personnel accountability report during an operation?

At least every thirty minutes. Signup and view all the answers

What must be done upon declaring a situation as 'Contained'?

A personnel accountability report must be obtained for all crews. Signup and view all the answers

What should occur when a firefighter is presumed lost or trapped in the hazard zone?

Adjust strategies to focus on a search and rescue effort. Signup and view all the answers

What color tags are assigned to Captains in the Personal Accountability Tags (PAT) system?

3 red with white print and 1 black with white print Signup and view all the answers

Where should the Personal Accountability Tags (PAT) be attached when not in use?

On the underside of the rear of the helmet brim Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the Small Status Board in the context of fire operations?

To maintain a visual record of personnel accountability for small incidents Signup and view all the answers

Which personnel's name should always appear at the top of the Passport?

The crew leader Signup and view all the answers

How are name tags placed on the Passport for Engines, Ladders, and Rescues when indicating upside-down?

Names of members not in the hazard zone are upside-down. Signup and view all the answers

What item is assigned to all engines, ladders, rescues, and medics for managing personnel on scene?

Two Passports Signup and view all the answers

What should crew leaders do after a change in the personnel assigned to their crew?

Visually check the Passports for accuracy. Signup and view all the answers

What is the protocol for personnel entering an interior hazard zone?

They must work in teams of at least two. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the Incident Commander regarding accountability?

To ensure accountability on all incidents and delegate if necessary. Signup and view all the answers

Where should Passports be maintained during an incident?

At the Command Post or a designated location outside the hazard zone. Signup and view all the answers

In a high-rise incident, what is the role of Forward Accountability?

To document personnel operating in the hazard zone located one floor below. Signup and view all the answers

What must occur if the first arriving vehicle at an incident is not an engine?

The first engine to the incident must take accountability for that side. Signup and view all the answers

What is a Personnel Accountability Report (PAR)?

A roll call of personnel assigned to the hazard zone. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of maintaining a large status board on battalion chief vehicles?

To ensure accountability on larger incidents. Signup and view all the answers

What is required when a Personnel Accountability Report (PAR) is requested?

Each crew leader must account for all members of their company. Signup and view all the answers

What is stated about freelancing in incident operations?

Freelancing is prohibited within the incident command structure. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly describes the handling of Passports during escalation of incidents?

Division and Group Supervisors will collect Passports from crews. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of firefighters required before entering an IDLH atmosphere?

Four firefighters Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the standby members outside the hazard zone?

To maintain awareness and communicate with the team inside Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition can the two-in/two-out policy be deviated?

In case of a known life hazard situation Signup and view all the answers

What may one standby member be permitted to do during an incident?

Perform functions like apparatus operator or Incident Commander Signup and view all the answers

When should a Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) Group be established?

If the incident is not quickly stabilized Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of companies that should staff the RIT Group as soon as possible?

Two companies Signup and view all the answers

What communication requirement must standby members maintain with the working crew in the hazard zone?

Radio, visual, voice, or signal line communication Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the ‘initial stages’ of an incident is true?

At least two firefighters must work as a team in the hazard zone. Signup and view all the answers

What action must be taken if standby members need to assist inside the hazard zone?

The Incident Commander must announce this on the B# FG talk group. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the two-in/two-out policy?

To ensure safety through team support and rescue capabilities Signup and view all the answers

What is required when a deviation from the Two-In/Two-Out policy occurs?

Report to incoming companies by radio immediately. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding the establishment of a Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) Group?

The Incident Commander decides when it is no longer necessary. Signup and view all the answers

What composition is recommended for an initial RIT Group?

One Engine, one Ladder, or one Rescue company. Signup and view all the answers

In which context is the RIT Group Supervisor expected to function as the initial safety officer?

If no other safety officers are present on the scene. Signup and view all the answers

What is the preferred method for replenishing the air supply of a down firefighter?

Employing the RIC UAC high-pressure quick fill line. Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated when the RIT Group's standby location is chosen?

It is typically close to the Command Post as deemed appropriate. Signup and view all the answers

What happens if a company assigned to the RIT Group is redirected to other duties?

The Incident Commander must ensure new resources are available to maintain the RIT. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum equipment requirement for residential structures at the staging area?

A combination of ropes, saws, and thermal imaging cameras, Rit pack, charged hand line, attic ladder, hand tools Signup and view all the answers

What must be done if on-scene resources are inadequate while the RIT Group is utilized?

Immediate arrangements must be made to replace the RIT Group. Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario would necessitate the establishment of more than one RIT Group?

During multiple alarms and complex incident situations. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary action personnel should take when an Emergency Evacuation Signal is initiated?

Leave the hazard zone immediately Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios is NOT a reason to initiate an Urgent message during emergency operations?

A scheduled safety drill Signup and view all the answers

What is the frequency and duration of the air horn blast used to signal evacuation?

10 seconds blast followed by 5 seconds of silence Signup and view all the answers

When should personnel avoid remaining in the hazard zone during an evacuation?

When the evacuation signal has been activated Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step when an Emergency Evacuation Signal is received?

Evacuate the area immediately Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances should members be sent to rehab?

After using two consecutive SCBA cylinders until the 50% yellow LED activates Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum duration for rest periods in rehab?

Ten minutes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT documented by medical personnel evaluating members entering rehab?

Current location of incident Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for authorizing members to leave rehab?

The rehab supervisor Signup and view all the answers

What must occur prior to the reassignment of members being released from rehab?

They must receive a release from the rehab supervisor Signup and view all the answers

What equipment item must be turned in to the Rehab Staff upon entering rehab?

Passports Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately reflects the conditions for medical documentation in rehab?

Medical treatment provided must be documented in an EMS incident report Signup and view all the answers

Which action must members take after exiting rehab based on their evaluation?

Wait for a briefing on their next assignment Signup and view all the answers

What other vital sign may be evaluated by medical personnel during rehab in addition to BP and pulse?

PAO2 (Pulse Ox) Signup and view all the answers

Under what conditions will a Rehab Group be initiated?

At the request of the Incident Commander or Safety Officer Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the Rehab Group Officer?

Coordinating efforts with Box 15 to enhance rehab effectiveness Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum hydration requirement upon entering rehab?

At least 8 ounces of water Signup and view all the answers

Which factors influence the ideal location for a rehab area?

Sheltered from incident-related stresses and appropriate temperature Signup and view all the answers

During what type of incidents is nourishment considered essential?

Only during normal mealtime hours and incidents longer than four hours Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following liquids may be offered after the initial water intake?

Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided in the nourishment provided during rehab?

Fatty or salty foods Signup and view all the answers

Which individual has supervisory authority over the Rehab Group?

The Safety Officer or designated EMS Supervisor Signup and view all the answers

How should hydration liquids be mixed for optimum effectiveness?

50/50 with water for sports drinks Signup and view all the answers

Where should the Rehab Group be located in high-rise fire scenarios?

On the appropriate floor below the fire Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the second ladder and rescue group in a high-rise incident?

To serve as the Upper Search and Evacuation group Signup and view all the answers

When conducting a search in a high-rise fire, which areas are prioritized for searching?

The stairwells, the floor above the fire, and the top floor Signup and view all the answers

Who must report to the Incident Commander and establish the Medical Branch?

The EMS Supervisor Signup and view all the answers

What equipment is the second battalion chief required to have when reporting to the Command Post?

Full PPE, SCBA, and a Large Status Board Signup and view all the answers

What is the automatic response when a working fire in a high-rise is confirmed?

Dispatch 2 Engines, 2 Ladders, and additional support units Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of Level I Staging during a working fire response?

To allow companies to report to the Command Post for assignment Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of the first battalion chief upon arrival at the scene?

To establish a fixed command and ideally outdoor Command Post Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the procedure if the Incident Commander finds it necessary during a high-rise response?

They can deviate from the High-Rise Response SOP to meet incident priorities Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following units is not mentioned as part of the automatic dispatch for a confirmed working fire?

1 Fire Chief Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of Engines dispatched when a working fire in a high rise is confirmed?

Two Engines Signup and view all the answers

In the context of a working fire in a high-rise, what is the role of the Fire Alarm Office?

To dispatch additional companies automatically Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following personnel is NOT included in the automatic dispatch for a confirmed working fire in a high rise?

Rescue Team Leader Signup and view all the answers

What type of staging is implemented when companies report to the Command Post for a working fire?

Level I Staging Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected action of working fire companies upon arrival at a high rise incident?

Report to the Command Post for assignment Signup and view all the answers