FR-O-201 RADIO COMMUNICATION
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Questions and Answers

Which channel is designated specifically for dispatching emergency response vehicles?

  • TAC 5A
  • TAC 2A
  • TAC 6A (correct)
  • TAC 3A

What system is used as the primary emergency backup for communications?

  • 800 MHz radio system
  • Conventional repeater system
  • VHF radio system (correct)
  • Simplex system

Which of the following is NOT included among the six constantly monitored channels?

  • TAC 1A (correct)
  • TAC 4A
  • TAC 5A
  • TAC 2A

Which battalions are assigned to TAC 3A?

<p>Battalions 3, 9, and 10 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the updates to the PPM?

<p>To maintain the communication system (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which communication system utilizes 160 channels?

<p>800 MHz radio system (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Deputy Chief of Operations regarding the PPM?

<p>To oversee future updates (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Under which circumstances are channels TAC 7A through TAC 12A assigned?

<p>For Immediate Danger to Life and Health incidents (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When is the use of code 10-24 appropriate?

<p>When Fire Rescue personnel are in a life-threatening situation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical reason to avoid discussing criminal information over non-encrypted channels?

<p>It can be overheard by civilians and compromise investigations. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about PBSO encrypted radio channels is incorrect?

<p>Fire Rescue personnel can communicate directly with PBSO through them. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the correct use of PBSO encrypted radio channels for Fire Rescue personnel?

<p>To respond to inquiries from PBSO when requested. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the VHF Marine Radio communications?

<p>To communicate during marine emergencies. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should Fire Rescue personnel do if they determine the scene is secure while monitoring the PBSO encrypted channel?

<p>Inform their Communications Center and then take action. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following channels can be used specifically for North Region communication?

<p>1S NR 1A (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of information is appropriate for encrypted radio channels?

<p>Information known only to the perpetrator and not the public. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary protocol for Fire Rescue Communications when responding to incidents requiring Law Enforcement?

<p>To keep all communications strictly through their own Communications Center. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following channels is primarily used for fire rescue recruits?

<p>TAC 3B (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the E Zone channels?

<p>Training and support services for fire rescue (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which channel is described as always monitored by the Communications Center?

<p>TAC 16A (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Enroute' signify in the context of emergency incident reporting?

<p>Units are on their way to a non-emergency call. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which channels fall under the D Zone?

<p>Common channels for Fire, Law Enforcement, and Emergency Management (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of TAC channels 10-12B?

<p>Open to be assigned by the Communication Center for training or special events (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of channels are TAC 1F through TAC 14F classified as?

<p>Repeaters and Medical Control channels (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When units need to report their status, which term indicates they have completed an incident?

<p>Available (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which TAC channel is designated for Fleet maintenance communication?

<p>TAC 1E (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which TAC channel is for Fire Rescue Training?

<p>TAC 6B (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which status must units report if they have been On-scene beyond a specific timeframe?

<p>On scene (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Daily OPS Bulletin?

<p>To communicate the current burn status and drought index (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which channel is not utilized for mutual aid communication?

<p>TAC 10F (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How often should the Communicator Supervisor update the Daily OPS Bulletin?

<p>As changes occur during the shift (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When a unit is marked 'Available Out-of-Zone', which condition must be met prior to leaving their response zone?

<p>Contact the Communications Center for approval. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the 'In-Service' status for a unit?

<p>To report a unit is ready for emergency calls after repairs. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly describes the communication process when a mechanical breakdown occurs?

<p>Both the Communications Center and Support Services must be notified immediately. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must be done before a unit can be placed 'Out-of-Service' for training?

<p>The Lieutenant or Operational Captain must request approval from the Battalion Chief. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which status is used to indicate that a unit is back at its assigned fire station?

<p>In-Quarters (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action should an Operational Captain take once a vehicle has completed repairs?

<p>Remove all equipment from the replacement unit and return it. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must be approved before a unit is scheduled to be Out-of-Service?

<p>Training Calendar availability (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstance can a unit be considered 'Available In-zone'?

<p>When it returns from being 'Out-of-Service' (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of the Fire Operations Officer?

<p>Authorize a unit to go Out-of-Service after mechanical failure. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct procedure when a unit needs to go Out-of-Service due to mechanical breakdown?

<p>Notify the Communications Center via TAC 1A or landline. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the communication requirement for units that are Out-of-Zone?

<p>They must maintain radio contact with the Communications Center. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a unit experiences mechanical problems that do not require it to be taken Out-of-Service, what should be done?

<p>Follow the procedure for Vehicle Maintenance Requests. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What term is used when a unit is temporarily out of service for approved activities such as training or community education?

<p>Out-of-Service (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

800 MHz Radio System Channels

The 800 MHz radio system used by Palm Beach County Fire Rescue comprises 160 channels, with six main channels constantly monitored for emergency and non-emergency operations. These channels are designated for Fire Rescue units and personnel.

TAC 6A: Dispatch Channel

The TAC 6A channel is utilized for dispatching emergency response vehicles and personnel to various incidents and move-ups. Essentially, this is where units receive their first instructions.

TAC 2A: Battalion/City Channel

Battalions 1, 2, and 7, along with the cities of Tequesta, Palm Beach Gardens, and North Palm Beach, communicate through the TAC 2A channel. This ensures unified communication within a specific geographic area.

TAC 3A: Specific Battalion Channel

Battalions 3, 9, and 10 operate on the TAC 3A channel. This allows for efficient communication among those units in their designated areas.

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TAC 4A: Battalion/City Channel

Battalions 4, 5, and the city of Delray Beach communicate via the TAC 4A channel. This ensures seamless communication within their operational zones.

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TAC 5A: Specific City Channel

The cities of West Palm Beach, Riviera Beach, and Palm Beach Shores use the TAC 5A channel for communication. This provides a direct line for operations within these specific city jurisdictions.

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TAC 7A - 12A: IDLH Designated Channels

Channels TAC 7A through TAC 12A are assigned by the Communications Center during incidents where immediate danger to life and health (IDLH) is present. These channels provide a dedicated line for critical emergencies.

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TAC 13A: Emergency Backup Channel

The TAC 13A channel serves as a backup for critical emergencies, ensuring reliable communication even in challenging scenarios.

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TAC Channel 6A

Used by the Department of Airports for assigning Station 81 to airport incidents.

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Fire Ground Simplex Channels (TAC 14A & 15A)

Simplex channels with limited range used in areas where the trunked system is not operational; cannot contact the Communications Center or activate the emergency button.

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C Zone

Channels assigned to hospitals and used for encodes by field personnel.

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D Zone

Common channels for Fire, Law Enforcement, and Emergency Management.

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E Zone

Channels assigned to training, support services, reservists, and state mutual aid; monitored during Fleet Maintenance hours.

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F Zone

Repeaters for various fire departments and medical control channels.

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G Zone

Assigned to hospitals and used to expand the C Zone channels.

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I Zone

Channels assigned to Martin county and Treasure Coast for mutual aid.

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J Zone

Channels dedicated for the main jail, Belle Glade jail, stockade, and PBC Beach Patrol.

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K Zone

TAC channels assigned to Martin county and Life Star.

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M Zone

TAC channels assigned to Broward County Fire.

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Firemain Channels (TAC 1A, 1B, 16A, 16B)

Channels always monitored by the Communications Center; accessible by turning the channel selection knob to the left or right.

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PBSO South Region 1 and PBSO South Region 2

PBSO encrypted radio channels for Battalion 5.

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VHF Radio System

Located at each Fire Rescue Station and in response vehicles; utilized for communication with other stations.

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On-the-Air status

This status indicates a unit is out of its station, on a move up, or en route to training, fuel, or other essential resources.

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Available Out-of-Zone status

Units are available outside their usual response zones or going to another station. Approved by the Communications Center based on available units in the area.

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Available In-Zone status

This status signals a unit that was Available Out-of-Zone has returned to its normal response area.

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Available at Station # Area status

This status identifies units located at a station other than their own for reasons like supplies, training, meetings, or move-ups.

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In-Service status

This status is used when a unit is placed back in service, ready to respond to emergency calls. In cross-staffed stations, it signals that one unit is In-Service and the other is Out-of-Service.

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In-Quarters status

This status is used to indicate that a unit is at its assigned fire station. For cross-staffed stations, this status means BOTH units are In-Service and available for calls.

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Out-of-Service status

This status indicates a unit is unavailable for emergency calls due to various reasons like mechanical issues or training.

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Move Ups

The Fire Operations Officer or Communicator Supervisor may direct units to move to a different station to ensure adequate coverage throughout the county.

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Out-of-Service for Training/Community Events

Units going Out-of-Service for training or community events must be scheduled by the Lieutenant or Operational Captain with the Battalion Chief.

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Out-of-Service Due to Mechanical Breakdown

All mechanical breakdowns preventing a unit from responding to emergency calls MUST be reported immediately to the Communications Center and Support Services.

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Returning Units In-Service After Repairs

Units returning In-Service after repairs must notify the Communications Center. Fleet Maintenance or unit personnel can initiate this notification.

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Out-of-Zone Radio Contact

All emergency units must maintain radio contact with the Communications Center while Out-of-Service or Out-of-Zone, except when at a fire station with notification provided.

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Radio Transmissions (Clear Text/Common Terminology)

All radio transmissions must be conducted using clear text and common terminology.

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Continuous Review of Unit Status

Continuously reviewing unit status and activity is essential to manage resources effectively and ensure appropriate coverage.

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Fire Operations Officer & Communicator Supervisor Role in Move Ups

Fire Operations Officer and/or Communicator Supervisor assists in directing units to Move Up to another station for improved coverage.

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Code 10-24

A special code used by law enforcement to signal they need urgent help from fire rescue. This code is reserved for serious situations where firefighters are in immediate danger.

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PBSO Encrypted Radio Channels

These channels are designed for situations where the information shared could harm criminal investigations. Such conversations are sensitive and should only involve personnel directly involved in the case.

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Using Code 10-24

This protocol is mandated when fire rescue personnel are in a life-threatening situation and need urgent law enforcement help.

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Non-encrypted Radio Channels

Sharing sensitive information about a possible crime on these radio channels could jeopardize an investigation.

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800 MHz Portable S Zone Channels

These channels are assigned to specific regions and fire stations to ensure clear communication within those areas.

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Marine Channel VHF Radio

Fire rescue uses these frequencies to communicate with US Coast Guard for water emergencies and rescues.

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PBSO Encrypted Radio Channels

These channels are used to communicate with PBSO in sensitive situations. They are not for routine communications.

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Study Notes

Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Radio Communications Policy (FR-O-201)

  • Purpose: Provide understanding and procedures for the fire rescue communication system.

  • Effective Date: December 16, 2022

  • Authority: Fire Rescue Administrator, Florida State Statute 401, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Part 90 (and amendments).

  • Scope: Applies to all Palm Beach County Fire Rescue personnel and reservists.

Radio Systems

  • Primary Communication: 800 MHz radio system (160 channels). Six channels (Firemain, TAC 2A-5A, and TAC 13A) are continuously monitored for emergencies and daily operations.

  • Primary Emergency Backup: Conventional VHF radio system.

  • Secondary Emergency Backup: 800 MHz repeater/simplex system.

  • Equipment: Emergency and non-emergency vehicles equipped with 800 MHz radios. All 800 MHz portable radios are programmable.

Channel Assignments (800 MHz)

  • TAC 6A: Incident dispatch and move-ups.

  • TAC 2A-5A: Battalion and city assignments. Battalion 1, 2, 7, Cities of Tequesta, Palm Beach Gardens, and North Palm Beach (TAC 2A); Battalions 3, 9, 10 (TAC 3A); Battalions 4, 5, and Delray Beach (TAC 4A); Cities of West Palm Beach, Riviera Beach, and Palm Beach Shores (TAC 5A).

  • TAC 7A-12A: Immediate Danger to Life and Health (IDLH) incidents.

  • TAC 13A: Department of Airports (assigns Station 81 to airport incidents); In the Glades, monitors PBSO WR1 Alpha.

  • TAC 14A-15A: Fire ground simplex channels (limited range, no communications center contact or emergency button).

  • TAC 3B-16B: Designated for various training, support, and specialized services, by recruit, training, and other designated groups.

  • C Zone: Channels assigned to hospitals used for encodes by field personnel.

  • D Zone: Common channels for Fire, Law Enforcement, and Emergency Management.

  • E Zone: Assigned to Training, Support Services, Reservists, and State Mutual Aid (monitored during Fleet Maintenance hours).

  • F Zone: Repeater channels and channels for Medical Control.

  • G Zone: Hospital expansion channels.

  • H Zone: Martin County channels (mutual aid); Treasure Coast (mutual aid) channels.

  • I Zone: Assigned Broward County Fire channels.

  • J Zone: Jail and beach patrol channels (Lifeguards).

  • K Zone: Mutual aid channels(7) 700MHz.

  • M Zone: Martin County TAC Channels; Life Star, Martin Memorial North, and South Channels.

  • Firemain (TAC 1A, 1B, 16A, 16B): Always monitored; use to turn channel selection knob fully left/right.

  • PBSO South Region 1 and 2: Encrypted channels for Battalion 5.

VHF Radio System

  • Location: Fire Rescue Stations and emergency response vehicles.

  • Use: Per Emergency Communications Plan or as required.

  • Specific channels: VHF RPTR 1 (East Coast Fire Stations) and VHF RPTR 2 (Battalion 7 only).

Incident Reporting

  • Methods: Standard terms (responding, enroute, on scene, transport, transport complete, available)

  • Reporting: Units not reporting statuses after certain timeframes will be challenged.

  • Status Reports: Always inform when unit status changes (mechanical issues, training, move-ups, etc.), provide unit ID and reason.

  • Dispatch: Dispatch Protocol used for incident assignment. Simulated three alert tones precede incidents. Locution format specified.

  • Out-of-Zone: Contact communications center for approval on Firemain channel.

Burning Status

  • Daily OPS Bulletin: Communicator Supervisor obtains information from Florida Forest Service and National Weather Service; documents changes and posts on the Intranet.

Move-Ups

  • Coverage: Fire Operations Officer and/or Communicator Supervisor direct units to cover other stations.

Out-of-Service for Training

  • Scheduling: Lieutenant or Operational Captain request date/time from Battalion Chief.

  • Calendar Verification: Check Staffing program and Fire Rescue approved staffing program (FR-O-101) for available dates/times.

  • Officer Approval: Battalion Chief approves.

  • Safety: Approved drill safety plans, if appropriate.

  • Coverage: Move-up units for coverage.

Out-of-Service Due to Mechanical Breakdown

  • Reporting: Immediate notification of Communications Center and Support Services.

  • Fleet Maintenance: Reporting to Communications Center or Support Services via designated channels or landlines for on-call mechanic during regular maintenance; for after-hours, mechanic dispatch and vehicle-to-vehicle equipment transfer.

Returning Units In-Service

  • Reporting: Notification to Communications Center regarding repairs and equipment transfer.

Radio Signals/Codes

  • Clear Language: Only use signals/codes for security/confidentiality; otherwise, use clear language.

  • 10-24 Code: Use in life-threatening situations requiring Law Enforcement assistance.

  • Encrypted Channels (PBSO): Used for situational awareness, not direct communication. Fire Rescue personnel do not monitor these channels; only respond to specific requests. Not for general discussion of incidents, especially criminal matters.

  • VHF Marine Radio: Refer to SOG 210-01 Item # 9 for procedures. Specific marine channels listed for water rescue purposes.

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This quiz covers the Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Radio Communications Policy (FR-O-201), which outlines the procedures, equipment, and channel assignments for effective communication within the fire rescue team. Understanding these protocols is essential for all personnel involved in emergency operations.

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