ICM Misc. Situations pg. 29-44

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary reason mercaptan is added to natural gas?

To give it a distinctive odor for leak detection (correct)

To increase its flammability

To make it colorless and odorless

To enhance its energy content

What happens to the odor of mercaptan as natural gas travels through soil?

It becomes stronger and more detectable

It can be scrubbed out and the gas becomes odorless (correct)

It reacts chemically and changes to a different compound

It dissipates in air making the gas safer

Why is it important to keep a safe distance from natural gas leaks when responding?

Gas leaks emit harmful gases that affect health

Natural gas can cause asphyxiation and explosions (correct)

Natural gas leaks can result in non-toxic exposure

Proximity can lead to desensitization to mercaptan's odor

What should officers prioritize when assessing a natural gas leak?

Life safety first, followed by isolating the leak Signup and view all the answers

What is the flammable range of natural gas in terms of explosive limits?

4% to 15% Signup and view all the answers

How should fires involving natural gas be controlled?

By stopping the flow of gas Signup and view all the answers

What is a key consideration for responding crews when detecting natural gas?

Monitoring wind speed and direction before arrival Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of parking near electrical vaults or manholes during a gas leak response?

It poses a risk of explosion due to accumulated gas Signup and view all the answers

What should fire personnel do if they arrive at a scene with a potential threat of violence?

Stage until the scene is secured by police. Signup and view all the answers

What indicates a need to evacuate in case of a gas leak?

25,000 ppm Signup and view all the answers

When establishing a stage for response to an active shooter, what is a key consideration for the staging area?

Select an area with two means of egress. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the first unit to arrive at a scene with mass violence?

Establish site control. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done prior to entering a potentially violent scene?

Communicate the emergency evacuation plan. Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken if a company finds themselves in a hostile situation?

Attempt to flee or retreat. Signup and view all the answers

What is the protocol for vehicles responding to a hostile incident?

Stage a minimum of 600 feet away. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if it is deemed safe to manage victims in a warm zone?

Coordinate evacuation with police support. Signup and view all the answers

How should the first responders assess the scene upon arrival at a mass violence incident?

Conduct a 360-windshield survey for threats. Signup and view all the answers

In the event of a gas concentration of 50,000 ppm, what is the appropriate action?

Request NICOR and evacuate the area. Signup and view all the answers

What role does situational awareness play for fire officers during a response?

It is critical for scene safety. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the rally point established prior to entering a hostile zone?

To regroup if members get separated. Signup and view all the answers

What key action should be taken by the first unit following a Special Rescue Response dispatch?

Upgrade the incident to the box alarm level. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of technicians required for a Level 1 Hazmat Response?

Six technicians Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following would NOT typically require a single vehicle HazMat response?

Toxic gas leaks near a school Signup and view all the answers

Why is it necessary to establish a command post during an incident response?

To coordinate effective strategies and communications Signup and view all the answers

What should responders do if they encounter hazardous atmospheric conditions in a confined space?

Utilize air monitoring equipment Signup and view all the answers

Which activity is NOT part of victim management during a hazardous materials incident?

Locating spectators outside the hot zone Signup and view all the answers

What is the proper definition of a trench according to OSHA guidelines?

Excavations deeper than they are wide, not more than 20 feet deep and 15 feet wide Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main concerns when rescuers are operating at a trench collapse incident?

Stability of the surrounding soil Signup and view all the answers

Which piece of information is vital for first responders when determining incident control measures at a HazMat scene?

Wind direction and speed Signup and view all the answers

What action should responders take in establishing site control during a confined space rescue?

Determine cold, warm, and hot zones Signup and view all the answers

If a rescue incident requires a rope system beyond that of a basic setup, what protocol should be followed?

Issue a specialized rescue and box alarm Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant role of the first-in unit during any type of rescue incident?

Establishing incident command Signup and view all the answers

What should responders do when they encounter an IDLH environment?

Use appropriate personal protective equipment Signup and view all the answers

During a trench rescue, what is required for excavations deeper than 20 feet?

A registered professional engineer's approval Signup and view all the answers

What type of incidents would prompt the upgrade to a specialized rescue and box alarm?

High angle or technical rescues requiring harnesses or advanced systems Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct sequence of actions that Naperville PSAP should follow after a box alarm request?

Contact DUCOMM, notify Shift Commander, and establish staging area. Signup and view all the answers

What does the first-in unit need to determine regarding site safety during a building collapse?

Which utility shut offs are accessible and hazardous atmospheric conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What must the on-scene Incident Commander utilize for any alarm upgrades or reductions?

IFERN frequency. Signup and view all the answers

How should the first-in unit manage communications if a specialized rescue is required in a confined space?

Use the IFERN frequency or another identified frequency for direct communication. Signup and view all the answers

Identify the first action that should be taken by the first-in unit during a structural collapse.

Prohibit unauthorized personnel from entering the collapse area. Signup and view all the answers

What task is the first-in unit responsible for when entering a confined space incident?

Establish site control and secure the area. Signup and view all the answers

What are the criteria for a space to be classified as a confined space under OSHA Regulation 29 CFR 1910.146?

Must allow a person to enter and work, have limited exit options, and not designed for continuous occupation. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern of the first-in unit regarding victim management during rescue operations?

To determine the location and number of victims and maintain safe communication. Signup and view all the answers

When responding to requests for special teams, what initial action should Naperville PSAP take?

Inform the requesting agency that Naperville responds as a MABAS division. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Shift Commander prioritize when team resources are requested out of town?

Make it a priority to get the specialty team vehicle to the scene. Signup and view all the answers

How should the first-in unit handle the potential for dangerous atmospheric conditions?

Determine if hazardous atmospheric conditions exist prior to engaging in rescue efforts. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is crucial for managing an incident site during a structure collapse?

Select a staging area for box alarm companies in the cold zone. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of rescue operations, what is the importance of maintaining contact with victims in voids?

To ensure mental stability of victims until they are rescued. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical aspect of scene safety regarding utilities in emergency operations?

Identify accessible shut-off points for utilities posing immediate threats. Signup and view all the answers

What is the best initial response when encountering a closed door with elevated readings of 25% LEL?

Shut off the gas source, contact NICOR, and let the building vent naturally. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done regarding ignition sources within the hot zone established around a gas leak?

Extinguish all flame and ignition sources immediately. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of fire officers when they arrive at a location with an outside natural gas leak?

Start air monitoring at buildings nearest to the leak. Signup and view all the answers

Which action is NOT appropriate when responding to a natural gas leak?

Fill an excavation with water to control the leak. Signup and view all the answers

What should the first-in unit do when they encounter a hot zone around a gas leak?

Evacuate the area and establish a hot zone based on readings. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of detecting 1% LEL at a gas leak site?

Requesting NICOR is necessary as it is too lean for ignition. Signup and view all the answers

What should NOT be done in the event of a natural gas leak igniting?

Attempt to extinguish any flames immediately. Signup and view all the answers

In addition to shutting down service to a home, what key procedure must follow before reinstating gas service?

Check safety equipment associated with burners and reignite pilot lights. Signup and view all the answers

What defines the area that should be monitored continuously during a gas leak situation?

The hot zone that may need to expand based on gas readings. Signup and view all the answers

Which element indicates the need for heightened caution around a manhole during a gas leak?

Knowledge of dangerous concentrations of gases or vapors. Signup and view all the answers

For which situation would NICOR NOT be immediately contacted?

When gas has been detected in adjoining buildings at low levels. Signup and view all the answers

How should the first due companies position their vehicles upon arrival at the scene of a gas leak?

One to two houses away from the leak site and upwind. Signup and view all the answers

Which action must be performed after confirming an uncontrolled gas leak with no ignition?

Evacuate all personnel, including firefighters, from the immediate area. Signup and view all the answers

What might indicate the presence of an outside gas leak?

Detectable hissing sounds and dead grass. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum distance that the hot zone should be around the trench?

50' x 50' Signup and view all the answers

When managing victims in a trench collapse, what is the recommended action if a victim is partially buried?

Have the victim tie a rope line around themselves. Signup and view all the answers

What should be established near the hot zone for proper medical response?

A Medical Group and a rehab area. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of water rescue, what is crucial to establish among witnesses?

The distance they observed the victim from. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum distance that spectators and apparatus should be located from the hot zone?

300 feet Signup and view all the answers

What should first responders do to ensure the safety of personnel working on the extrication scene?

Establish a secure perimeter. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key consideration for dive teams when conducting a water rescue?

To establish a secondary entry/exit point in moving water. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if hazardous atmospheric conditions are suspected at an incident scene?

Conduct atmospheric testing. Signup and view all the answers

During a water rescue, what is the purpose of triangulation?

To accurately locate a person who went underwater. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a step in victim management after a trench collapse?

Report directly to higher authorities. Signup and view all the answers

What action should be taken regarding spur piles near the trench?

They should be kept a minimum of 4 feet from the trench lip. Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended method for marking the last known location of a victim in a trench collapse?

Using a dry chem extinguisher. Signup and view all the answers

What should the first in officers do to commence an effective water rescue operation?

Size up the incident regarding victims and situation. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Natural Gas Characteristics and Safety

Methane, the main component of natural gas, is colorless, odorless, extremely flammable, and lighter than air (0.57 vapor density).
Mercaptan is added to natural gas to provide an odor for detection, but can be scrubbed out in soil, making gas odorless again.
Prolonged exposure to Mercaptan can desensitize individuals to its smell.
Flammable range: Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) of 4% to Upper Explosive Limit (UEL) of 15%.
While non-toxic, natural gas can displace oxygen, risking asphyxiation in enclosed spaces.
Gas migrates along the path of least resistance, accumulating in areas with low airflow (attics, closets).

Leak Detection and Response

Life safety is the highest priority; finding and isolating the leak is secondary.
Proximity to the leak must be assessed; offensive actions should only be taken if deemed safe.
Fires involving natural gas should be controlled by stopping the gas flow; do not extinguish the gas fire unless it has spread to combustibles.
Responders should always approach gas leaks from upwind and park outside the potential explosion zone (1-2 houses away).

Monitoring and Equipment

Utilize at least two gas monitors (4-gas and Gas Trac) for accurate readings, being aware of lag time in sensor response.
NICOR must be contacted for all confirmed gas leaks, and coordination with gas company personnel is essential for safe mitigation.

Inside vs. Outside Gas Leaks

Inside leaks pose greater risks due to potential gas accumulation; elevated readings around closed doors require a defensive approach.
Outside leaks can be identified by dead grass, dust clouds, hissing sounds, or the smell of rotten eggs.
Establish hot zones around leaks with readings of 1% or higher and eliminate all ignition sources.

Manholes, Vaults, and Sewer Gas Safety

Flames from ignited gas should not be extinguished, and access to manholes or vaults should be restricted to utility personnel.
Venting manholes requires precautions to avoid sparks and should involve temporary cover removal.

First in Unit Responsibilities

Evacuate affected areas; this may involve the entire premise depending on the leak size.
Eliminate ignition sources, ventilate, and isolate the leak, ensuring that no equipment is turned back on prematurely.
Assess adjacent buildings for gas presence, and establish a hot zone around the leak area.

The Natural Gas Levels and Monitoring Actions

Different natural gas concentration levels require specific actions, such as monitoring, evacuation, or notifying NICOR.
Reference points for actions include:
- 1% LEL: Request NICOR, too lean.
- 5% LEL: Monitor and request NICOR.
- 10% LEL: Evacuate, ventilate, and shut off the gas.
- 25% LEL: Immediate evacuation, shut off gas, ventilate.
- 50% LEL and 100% LEL: Request NICOR, evacuate area.

Hostile Situations

Maintain situational awareness at potentially violent incidents; stage personnel away from the line of sight of danger.
Ensure a security element (PD) is present before entering hazardous zones and establish communication for evacuation plans.
Establish tactical command; assess threats from chemical, biological, or explosive sources.

Acts of Mass Violence / Active Shooter Protocol

Unified command must be established early for effective management of resources in mass violence situations.
Perform thorough assessments of threats and establish staging areas to monitor operations without lights on while waiting for police assessment.

Specialty Team Incident Responses

For specialized rescues (water, hazmat, tech), requests must lead to an immediate upgrade to box alarm levels involving team mobilization.
Communicate with MABAS Division 16 and ensure a staging area is designated for incoming teams.

Building Collapse and Confined Space Rescue

Building collapse incidents require upgrading to specialized rescue with box alarm and establishing command, site control, and victim management.
Confined spaces must be assessed and managed under OSHA regulations defining a confined space, ensuring safety protocols and ventilation are followed.

Key Safety Levels for Atmospheres

Oxygen deficiency: less than 19.5%.
Oxygen enrichment: greater than 23.5%.
Flammability exceeds 10% of LEL.
Carbon monoxide: greater than 35 PPM.
Hydrogen sulfide: greater than 10 PPM.

Emergency Response Coordination

Communications and coordination must be maintained throughout any emergency response and involve establishing utility control over gas leaks.
Each incident requires strategic planning concerning site safety, victim management, and potential rescues based on situational analysis.### Scene Safety
Assess for hazardous atmospheric conditions before approaching the scene.
Identify mechanical, chemical, or electrical hazards present in the environment.
Locate utility shut-offs and implement lockout/tagout procedures to ensure safety.
Map out all access points into confined spaces.
Understand that levels immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) require urgent attention.

Hazardous Materials Response

Responding to hazardous materials incidents can range from single vehicles for minor issues to multi-agency responses for severe situations.
Incidents requiring specialized rescue should trigger a box alarm for additional support.
Single Vehicle HazMat Response includes minor scenarios like fuel spills and gas leaks, manageable by on-duty personnel.
Level 1 HazMat Response involves technician-level intervention, requiring at least six technicians to control identified hazardous releases.

Responsibilities of First-In Unit (HazMat)

Establish site control, incident command, and set up command post.
Define cold, warm, and hot zones; select staging for box alarm companies.
Identify materials and potential hazards; restrict access to untrained personnel in the hot zone.
Record wind direction and speed; assess victim situation within a safe area.

Rope Rescue

Rope systems are fundamental in high-angle and water rescue operations; complex rescues necessitate a specialized response and box alarm.
Responsibilities include site control, command establishment, and securing hot zones.
Engage with victims safely to assess their conditions and guarantee proper anchoring of safety lines if in high-angle situations.

Trench Rescue

Trench collapses can occur from unstable soil; OSHA regulations necessitate proper safety systems for trenches deeper than 5 feet.
Trench dimensions are defined as excavations deeper than they are wide, not exceeding 15 feet wide and 20 feet deep.
First-in unit must establish control, command, and determine safe zones, ensuring unauthorized personnel remain clear of the trench.
Engage victims via ladders placed at both ends and maintain contact while optimizing rescue strategies.

Vehicle/Machinery Extrication

Upgraded rescue alarms are vital for prolonged extrication scenarios; safety zones must be firmly established.
Maintain a secure perimeter; ensure bystanders are kept at a safe distance.
Establish medical groups and rehab areas near the hot zone, guaranteeing ambulances have direct access.

Water Rescue

First-in officer must size up incidents, identify witnesses, and ensure non-essential personnel are cleared from the area.
Engage in triangulation to ascertain victim location; prompt action is crucial for saving submerged individuals.
Set up necessary operational zones defining primary and secondary areas to restrict access for safety.

Overall Scene Safety

Continually monitor atmospheric conditions for potential fluctuations.
Safe identification of hazards is necessary in confined spaces and other rescue environments.
Mandatory utilization of lockout/tagout procedures ensures operational safety during rescue efforts.

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Description

This quiz focuses on the characteristics and dangers of natural gas, including its flammable nature and the addition of Mercaptan for safety. It also discusses the phenomenon of desensitization to odors and the implications of natural gas leaks. Test your knowledge on these important safety concepts!