MOP 602-3 SOP Rescue 1

• Rescue 1 is a multi-dimensional resource unit that provides specialized services during fireground operations.
• These services emphasize search and rescue of civilians and/or trapped firefighters.
• The unit has a minimum of three SOC trained personnel and is equipped with specialized equipment.

Incident Commander Considerations

• Incident Commanders must consider Rescue 1's abilities and resources when requested or dispatched to fire ground operations.
• Having trained and competent members on location during a Mayday event decreases extrication time and increases the likelihood of survival.

Procedure Objective

• The procedure aims to identify and clarify Rescue 1’s abilities and functionality during fire ground operations.
• It promotes uniformity in Rescue 1’s operations on the fireground.
• It clearly defines Rescue 1’s functions and abilities.
• Identifies areas of Rescue 1’s responsibility.

Primary and Secondary Functions

• Primary and secondary functions are dictated by this MOP and/or the Incident Commander's needs.
• Rescue 1 members are prepared to meet requests and remain committed to a training cycle.
• The training cycle maintains current knowledge of primary and secondary Truck and Engine functions.

Arrival at Fire Incident

• Rescue 1 will announce their presence and report to the front of the building upon arrival.
• The officer will perform a visual assessment using enhanced knowledge of forced entry and building collapse.
• The assessment includes structural stability, fire conditions, and barriers to entry or exit.
• Any issues are immediately communicated to the Incident Commander.

Absence of Specific Orders

• Without specific orders, Rescue 1 will assist Truck companies, focusing on search and rescue above the fire floor.
• Additional duties include ventilation, hose line advancement, and searching for fire extension.
• All members must use appropriate breathing apparatus and protective clothing.
• Members should work in teams of at least two.

Accountability

• Unit Officer and members maintain contact through visual and radio transmissions.
• Radio traffic is minimized unless emergent.
• Personnel work in teams of two, including the OIC/Junior member and the EVD/Senior member.

Assignment of Tools

• Tool assignment depends on the incident needs and Incident Commander's orders.
• Members deploy with two Thermal Imaging Cameras, one for the OIC and one for the Senior position.
• Each team selects appropriate tools and always carries Irons and Ceiling Hooks.

Unit Status and Placement

• Rescue 1 is always considered available and readily accessible.
• Apparatus is positioned close to the incident without blocking responding units.
• Communications will notify the Incident Commander to release Rescue 1 for heavy or technical rescues, confirmed entrapments, and Haz-Mat incidents.

MAYDAY Incident

• During a MAYDAY, Rescue 1 can be immediately redeployed as part of the Rapid Intervention Group.
• Personnel are trained in technical rescue disciplines, including confined space/structural collapse.
• Personnel are experienced in shoring, tunneling, breaching, breaking, patient packaging, and removal.

Rescue 1 Apparatus

• Carries gas and battery-powered metal cutting saws.
• Carries battery-powered Holmatro cutters and spreaders.
• Has an oxy-acetylene torch and air-operated PARATECH Pakhammers.
• Contains structural support shoring for refuge areas.
• The Air Cart provides an unlimited air supply via a 300' airline, compatible with the current Draeger buddy breathing system.