SOG 310-04 Vehicle Lockouts

A document signed by a vehicle owner releasing Fire Rescue from liability for vehicle damage during an unlock attempt.

A specialized tool Fire Rescue uses to unlock vehicles, like the "Jiffy Jack".

The process of gaining access to an occupied vehicle with running AC, by breaking a window, if the owner agrees.

A company specializing in vehicle unlocking services, used when Fire Rescue fails.

The process of breaking a window to gain access to a vehicle must be done only after the vehicle owner signs the Release from Liability form.

This guideline applies to all emergency responders, including Fire Rescue personnel.

The guideline outlines procedures for rescuing individuals or animals trapped in locked vehicles.

A Rescue unit is typically dispatched first, followed by an Engine if the Rescue is unavailable.

The first arriving unit must determine if the vehicle is occupied and whether the air conditioning is on.

If an occupied vehicle has NO running air conditioning, it's treated as an emergency. Immediate actions should be taken to ensure occupant safety.

If an occupant shows signs of distress (perspiration, altered consciousness), immediate extrication is necessary, even without permission.

If an occupant in a vehicle with running AC is not showing signs of compromise, appropriate entry methods should be used, including the 'Jiffy Jack' system or breaking a window.

When breaking a window, it's ideal to obtain the owner's permission, but the time of day and ambient temperature are major considerations.

shall be dispatched to all reported persons locked in a motor vehicle.

CLOSEST Engine shall also be dispatched.

shall be dispatched to all reported animals locked in a motor vehicle.

First arriving UNIT

(i.e., perspiration, altered level of consciousness, etc...)

the most appropriate expeditious method of gaining entry to the vehicle.

1. This should include, but not be limited to, use of the “Jiffy Jack” Car Entry System or breaking a window.
2. Breaking a Window 3. Car entry system

a. When breaking a window of the vehicle the owner’s permission may be gained. b. This is where professional judgement must be used and actions justifiable (the time of day and ambient temperature should be the primary factor).

Fire Rescue Personnel

1. Ensure Fire Rescue personnel have the vehicle owner’s permission and have them sign the Release from Liability
2. Fire Rescue personnel should then attempt to unlock the door(s) of the vehicle using the “Jiffy Jack” Car Entry System, or a similar tool if available.
3. If Fire Rescue personnel are unable to unlock the vehicle’s door(s), then POP-A-LOCK should be requested.

1. Ensure Fire Rescue personnel have the vehicle owner’s permission and have them sign the Release from Liability
2. Only AFTER the Release from Liability is signed should a window be broken to gain entry to an occupied vehicle with running Air Condition for an occupant without signs of compromise.
3. Forward all completed Release of Liability forms to the Records Custodian.

the Records Custodian.