SFD.041.REV2 - Response Model

Non-Emergency and Emergency Incident Response

• Non-emergency incidents include routine calls that do not pose immediate threats to life or property.
• The officer in charge of the apparatus in emergency mode ensures safety, makes tactical decisions, and oversees operations on scene.
• Units for light structure responses are typically dispatched based on the specific assessment of the situation, ensuring appropriate resources.

Dispatch Protocols for Structure Fires

• Residential structure fire responses include engines and a ladder for effective control.
• Commercial and multi-family structure fires require additional resources like multiple engines, a ladder company, and response from specialized units.
• An extrication response in-district is dispatched with engines, rescues, and support units based on the situation's demands.

Gas Leak and Automatic Vehicle Locator

• Gas leak incidents are addressed by dispatched units that include engines and hazmat teams depending on the severity.
• The Automatic Vehicle Locator (AVL) assists in tracking apparatus locations, enhancing dispatch efficiency and response times.

Guidelines and Review Responsibilities

• The Spring Fire Department Guideline provides standardized protocols for incident responses and operational procedures.
• The responsibility for annual review of the guidelines falls to designated fire department leadership.

Non-Staffed Stations and Incident Upgrades

• When a non-staffed station's apparatus is dispatched, a remote operational protocol activates to ensure readiness.
• Certain incidents, such as out-of-district calls, may exempt the need for the closest staffed apparatus to respond.

Response Adaptability and Staffing Constraints

• Non-emergency responses are characterized by their routine nature without immediate risks; decisions on upgrades may be made autonomously by senior personnel.
• For an in-district emergency incident requiring Tanker or Booster response, the station with appropriate resources based on protocols will dispatch.
• In staffing scenarios with only three personnel, the Tanker can operate with one less personnel if necessary.

Emergency Vehicle Responses

• A Heavy Utility Truck or LMTV responds to both in-district and out-of-district emergency incidents for specialized needs.
• The HUT/LMTV can respond with a minimum of one personnel if full staffing isn't available.
• The UTV is dispatched as needed for specific incidents, with a minimum of one personnel operating if only three are on duty.

Response Situations and Communication Protocols

• A Rescue or Evacuation Boat is mobilized for water-related rescues in required situations.
• Units not dispatched during an SFD box assignment should remain in-service and alert for instructions, ensuring readiness for potential needs.
• If dispatched units are closer than those assigned, immediate corrective actions should adjust response strategies.
• Determination of back-in assignments rests with the officer in charge, and all units involved should maintain communication to ensure seamless operations.
• Station personnel and the Communication Center must coordinate effectively to address any gaps or issues in back-in assignments.

Incident Assessment and Decision Making

• The officer determines if the incident escalates to a working status during an SFD box assignment dispatch, ensuring appropriate resource allocation.
• Clear communication with dispatch is necessary to keep all units informed and responsive to current incident dynamics.

Gas Leak Response Quiz: Test your knowledge on responding to gas leaks in residential, commercial, and outdoor settings. Learn about the appropriate number of personnel and apparatus needed for different scenarios. Be prepared to handle tanker or booster responses for emergency incidents.