Incident Management System Operations Manual

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Questions and Answers

What is the purpose of the Incident Management System (IMS)?

To implement a common approach to addressing and mitigating emergency incidents among all fire service providers.

What does NIMS stand for?

National Incident Mitigation Strategy

National Internal Management Structure

National Independent Management System

National Incident Management System (correct)

The Incident Commander is responsible for only one phase of the incident.

False

What does the acronym CANS stand for in the communications section?

Conditions, Actions, Needs, Statement of command name. Signup and view all the answers

What is a 360-Degree Size up?

The act of obtaining information about all conditions of an incident from each side of the fire ground. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a level of building construction according to the manual?

Type VI (Wood Frame) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Command Officer?

A single unit resource at the rank of EMS Captain or higher. Signup and view all the answers

Define Incident Action Plan (IAP).

An oral or written plan containing the objectives established by the Incident Commander. Signup and view all the answers

The Incident Command System (ICS) is used solely by fire departments.

False Signup and view all the answers

What does the acronym RECEOVS help to develop?

Incident strategies Signup and view all the answers

The primary responsibility of the __________ is to protect lives and property at the emergency scene.

Incident Commander Signup and view all the answers

What information should progress reports include?

Conditions, Actions, Needs. Signup and view all the answers

The Alpha side of a building is identified as the ______ side.

front Signup and view all the answers

What does the acronym CAN stand for in progress reports?

Conditions, Actions, Needs Signup and view all the answers

The designation 'Command' can change during the incident.

False Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms with their descriptions:

Life Safety = First priority in all firefighting operations Incident Stabilization = Minimizing effects of an incident Property Conservation = Maximizing property salvage during operations Evidence Preservation = Determining if incident requires evidence preservation Signup and view all the answers

A situation evaluation (size-up) should be conducted as quickly as possible during the initial stages of the incident, called a ______.

size up Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Command Sequence?

To guide the Incident Commander through gathering information, setting objectives, prioritizing problems, defining solutions, and selecting strategies. Signup and view all the answers

The Incident Commander should only consider hazards after firefighters are deployed.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is a Rapid Extinguishment?

A strategy to eliminate or significantly reduce the need for rescue, exposure, and confinement priorities. Signup and view all the answers

What should the IAP reflect?

The objectives of the overall incident strategy, tactics, risk management, and member safety. Signup and view all the answers

How often should progress reports typically occur in the early stages of an incident?

Every 5 to 10 minutes Signup and view all the answers

What should every Incident Commander remember about first impressions?

First impressions are a lasting one. Signup and view all the answers

What are the four questions an officer should ask regarding command presence?

<ol> <li>Do you look like you are in control? 2. Do you carry yourself like you have the ability to resolve the issue? 3. Do you act like you are in control? 4. Do you speak like you are in control?</li> </ol> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement describes a lack of command presence?

Officers who are boisterous and demanding. Signup and view all the answers

Command presence is established solely through rank.

False Signup and view all the answers

What does command presence require an officer to convey?

Confidence and self-assuredness. Signup and view all the answers

The process of moving the responsibility for incident command from one Incident Commander to another is called __________.

transfer of command Signup and view all the answers

What should occur when the first arriving unit responds to an incident?

They should establish Incident Command. Signup and view all the answers

Incident Command is not automatically transferred with the arrival of a Chief Officer.

True Signup and view all the answers

What do radio communications during incidents need to minimize?

Confusion. Signup and view all the answers

In high stress situations, which model should be applied to face-to-face communications?

The military order model. Signup and view all the answers

What should be declared to advise personnel of imminent danger?

Emergency Traffic Signup and view all the answers

The term 'Emergency Evacuation' is used to advise personnel it's safe to stay in place.

False Signup and view all the answers

What does the acronym LUNAR represent in a Mayday situation?

Location, Unit, Name, Air, Resources Signup and view all the answers

The mode of operation is defined by the strategy and _____.

tactics Signup and view all the answers

When should the Incident Commander switch to a Defensive Mode of operation?

When no lives can be saved Signup and view all the answers

What should happen once all personnel are clear of imminent danger during an Emergency Traffic situation?

Emergency Traffic, All Clear Signup and view all the answers

Match the terms with their definitions:

Nothing Showing = No signs of smoke or fire are present Working Fire = A fire that requires the use of all first alarm units Smoke Showing = Visible smoke defined as light, moderate, or heavy Flames Showing = Visible flames defined by extent and location Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the Incident Commander during a Mayday situation?

Control resources and personnel Signup and view all the answers

What is the highest incident priority during an emergency?

Rescue Signup and view all the answers

Primary Search should be conducted in fully involved structures.

False Signup and view all the answers

What should occur when there is an indication of a salvageable life?

Resources should be assigned to the tactical priority of Rescue. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of performing a Primary Search?

To locate possible victims Signup and view all the answers

A _____ Search is typically more thorough and methodical than a Primary Search.

Secondary Signup and view all the answers

What should firefighters do to minimize smoke damage during a search?

Shut the doors of uninvolved rooms Signup and view all the answers

What instrument should be used to direct Search and Rescue and Fire Attack?

Thermal Imaging Camera Signup and view all the answers

The Incident Commander must prioritize assignments based on tactical priorities and available resources.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of Tactics in incident management?

Deploying and directing resources on an incident to accomplish the objectives. Signup and view all the answers

What does Task Force refer to in incident management?

A set number of resources of different kinds and/or types, which have an established minimum number of personnel, common communications, and a leader. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of Unified Command in ICS?

An ICS application used when more than one agency has incident jurisdiction or when incidents cross political jurisdictions. Signup and view all the answers

Define Unity of Command.

A NIMS guiding principle stating that each individual involved in incident management reports to and takes direction from only one person. Signup and view all the answers

What does Working Fire describe?

A fire that shall require the use of all of the first alarm units. Signup and view all the answers

What is the cornerstone to managing an emergency incident?

Pre-incident planning. Signup and view all the answers

Who has the ultimate control in the Incident Command System (ICS)?

The Incident Commander. Signup and view all the answers

What are the two types of staff positions under the Incident Commander?

Command Staff and General Staff. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following positions is NOT part of the Command Staff?

Operations Section Chief Signup and view all the answers

What does the Operations Section Chief do?

In charge of all resources, conducts tactical operations to carry out the plan, develops the operational organization, and participates in daily planning meetings. Signup and view all the answers

What is the optimal span of control in ICS?

Five. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if there are insufficient resources to support firefighters?

Consider a Defensive Mode of operation. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main objective of the Incident Commander regarding safety?

Ensure accurate accountability of every firefighter location and status Signup and view all the answers

What does a Defensive Mode of operation entail?

A decision not to risk firefighter lives for lives or property that cannot be saved. Signup and view all the answers

What should Command Officers maintain?

Command presence. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Preface

The Palm Beach County Fire Chiefs Association collaborated with senior fire service leaders to create a modernized Incident Management System (IMS).
The manual offers a standardized operational approach for effective incident command, compliant with NFPA 1561 and NIMS.
The document is informed by diverse sources, including the IAFF, ISFSI, NFA, and FEMA, among others, emphasizing collaborative best practices in firefighting.

Acknowledgement

Thanks are given to various fire rescue agencies in Palm Beach County for their contributions, including Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, and West Palm Beach Fire Rescue.

Definitions and Key Terms

360-Degree Size Up: Gathering information from all sides of the incident scene.
Area Command: A command structure for managing large or complex incidents.
Incident Command System (ICS): A standardized emergency response framework allowing multiple agencies to coordinate effectively.
Incident Commander: The individual solely responsible for all phases of an incident, overseeing life and property protection.
Incident Action Plan (IAP): A plan outlining objectives and actions for the operational period, generally 12-24 hours.
Unified Command: A structure for incidents involving multiple agencies or jurisdictions, ensuring all parties coordinate effectively.

Pre-Incident Planning

Critical for effective incident management; familiarity with NFPA 1620 is recommended for development of pre-incident plans.

ICS Organization

The ICS puts overall command under a single Incident Commander, with flexibility to adjust positions as needed.
A Unified Command can be established when multiple agencies are involved to streamline communication and operations.

Key Concepts in Incident Management

Command Staff: Includes specific roles such as Liaison Officer and Public Information Officer directly reporting to the Incident Commander.
Emergency Communications: Systems in place for alerting personnel of dangers and managing communications during an incident.
Emergency Management Plans: Procedures designed to minimize risk and ensure safety during events.
Span of Control: This principle defines the number of individuals reporting to one supervisor, typically aiming for an optimal ratio for effective management.

Operations and Strategy

Modes of Operation: Defensive and offensive strategies are employed depending on the situation; defensive focuses on external suppression, while offensive tackles suppression from within.
Progress and Situation Reports: Regular updates and evaluations are essential for maintaining operational awareness and adjusting the action plan.

Documentation and After-Action Reviews

After Action Review: A systematic examination of what occurred during an incident to identify lessons learned and improve future response efforts.
Appendices: Various resources including ICS Forms and Position Checklists to support implementation and training within the fire service.

Conclusion

The Palm Beach County IMS aims to unify emergency response efforts and enhance coordination across all fire service providers in the region. Regular updates and training, along with adherence to national standards, are pivotal for ongoing effectiveness.### Incident Command System Overview
Structure designed for full or partial implementation with emphasis on reviewing all position roles.
Not a rank structure; positions filled based on organizational needs.
Modular development based on the incident type and size.
Ensures manageable span of control for participants.

Command Staff Roles

Incident Safety Officer (ISO): Monitors safety conditions and develops measures for personnel safety.
Public Information Officer (PIO): Acts as media contact; only one PIO per incident, supported by assistants.
Liaison Officer: Coordinates with involved agencies.
Command Staff Advisors: Technical specialists appointed to advise without directing activities.

General Staff Positions

Operations Section: Led by Operations Section Chief, responsible for tactical operations and resource management.
Planning Section: Led by Planning Section Chief, focuses on information collection and preparation of Incident Action Plans (IAPs).
Logistics Section: Led by Logistics Section Chief, provides facilities, services, and materials.
Finance/Administration Section: Led by Finance/Administration Section Chief, oversees financial and administrative aspects.
Intelligence/Investigations Function: Determines incident source/cause, collects and analyzes information, and informs operations.

Divisions and Groups

Divisions: Geographic areas of operation, supervised by appointed supervisors; identified typically by alphabetical letters.
Groups: Functional areas with responsibilities based on tasks, also supervised with labels indicating specific job functions.

Branches

Established for organizational purposes when divisions/groups exceed manageable control levels.
Individuals in charge assigned as Directors, with potential deputies.

Span of Control

Defined as the number of subordinates a supervisor manages (optimal at five).
Adjustments required if numbers exceed seven or fall below three for effective oversight.

Rules of Engagement for Incident Commanders

Conduct a 360-degree assessment for risk determination before tactical operations.
Determine rescue profiles based on fire conditions related to occupant survival potential.
Develop a SAFE ACTION PLAN based on initial risk assessment.
If resources are insufficient, consider a Defensive Mode to safeguard firefighters.
Never risk lives for unrescuable occupants or property; evaluate risk vs. benefit.
Maintain frequent communications and update action plans based on changing conditions.
Ensure accountability for all firefighter locations and statuses.

Command Presence

Essential for establishing authority and respect in crisis situations.
Reflects through appearance, demeanor, actions, and communication style.
Commanders must convey confidence and competence to effectively manage incidents.

Establishing Command

First arriving unit establishes Incident Command.
Command position based on role, not rank; single company incidents may not require ICS activation.
Multiple units or companies require ICS activation; incident command may transfer based on size-up considerations.
Command Post (ICP) should be outside the incident site for better visibility and communication.### Incident Command Responsibilities
The Incident Commander oversees the entire incident response process, including immediate functions like developing planning and resource management.
Command responsibilities transfer as the Incident Commander changes, ensuring continuity in management.
Chief Officers report to the designated location for assignments from the Incident Commander.

Assumption and Transfer of Command

Assumption of command occurs without face-to-face interaction during radio communications when a new officer takes charge.
A formal transfer of command is needed to shift responsibilities from one officer to another, maintaining clear accountability.
The first arriving Chief Officer typically assumes command when the situation is unstable or escalating.

Communication Protocols

Use clear text and common terminology in radio communications to minimize confusion and ensure effective operations.
Adopt a "military order model" for radio transmissions, prioritizing clarity by stating the receiving unit first, followed by the sending unit.
Radio communications should be kept concise, especially in high-stress environments, to maintain operational efficiency.

Radio Communication Policies

Avoid using codes unless necessary for security; focus on conveying clear and essential information.
Echo back fireground orders to confirm understanding and prevent miscommunications, especially in critical situations.
Limit transmissions to critical updates during IDLH (Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health) incidents.

Emergency Communications

Emergency Traffic alerts are used to communicate imminent dangers and take priority over other radio communications.
Emergency Evacuation protocols require all personnel to evacuate upon announcement, ensuring safety through established measures.
The term "Mayday" is reserved for situations where firefighters are in critical need, such as being lost, trapped, or injured.

Handling Emergencies and "Mayday" Situations

Incident Commanders must maintain composure and control during a Mayday incident, calling for emergency traffic and coordinating a response.
Implementing a Personnel Accountability Report (PAR) is essential to ensure all personnel are accounted for during critical incidents.
The Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC) is activated to assist personnel in distress, emphasizing the need for structured support in emergencies.

Technical Considerations for Communications

In multi-jurisdictional incidents, ensure compatibility in communication systems through various methods, including merged communications or providing radios.
Utilize additional TAC channels as necessary, especially in complex scenarios requiring distinct operational zones.
Contact the Communication Center before switching to simplex channels, ensuring consistent communication during incidents.

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Description

This manual provides comprehensive guidelines for the incident management system operations, highlighting key definitions, protocols, and acknowledgments. It serves as a resource for fire chiefs and emergency responders in Palm Beach County. Ensure you understand the intricacies of incident management to enhance response effectiveness.