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Questions and Answers
Which type of water rescue involves water moving faster than the average person can comfortably walk?
Which type of water rescue involves water moving faster than the average person can comfortably walk?
What is the primary goal of the guidelines established in IRP Appendix M for personnel certified by MCFRS?
What is the primary goal of the guidelines established in IRP Appendix M for personnel certified by MCFRS?
Which certification level is specifically recognized for Boat Crew or Operator as per MCFRS?
Which certification level is specifically recognized for Boat Crew or Operator as per MCFRS?
What common occurrence is characterized by rainfall exceeding the capacity of the storm water management system?
What common occurrence is characterized by rainfall exceeding the capacity of the storm water management system?
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Which level of certification is designated for swift water rescue team members?
Which level of certification is designated for swift water rescue team members?
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What is the primary objective when responding to flat water emergencies?
What is the primary objective when responding to flat water emergencies?
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Which of the following is NOT a water hazard mentioned?
Which of the following is NOT a water hazard mentioned?
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What should be included in the control measures during a water-related incident?
What should be included in the control measures during a water-related incident?
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Which factor does NOT contribute to risk assessment reduction in water emergencies?
Which factor does NOT contribute to risk assessment reduction in water emergencies?
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Why is it important to have spotters in position during a water incident?
Why is it important to have spotters in position during a water incident?
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How does water level affect the risk on the Potomac River?
How does water level affect the risk on the Potomac River?
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What is one of the main challenges when assessing risk in water emergencies?
What is one of the main challenges when assessing risk in water emergencies?
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What does the principle of risk reduction emphasize during flooding incidents?
What does the principle of risk reduction emphasize during flooding incidents?
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What is the maximum allowed water level for non-SWRT personnel to operate upstream of Seneca Breaks at Rileys Locks?
What is the maximum allowed water level for non-SWRT personnel to operate upstream of Seneca Breaks at Rileys Locks?
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Which equipment must be included as minimum PPE in the Hot Zone?
Which equipment must be included as minimum PPE in the Hot Zone?
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Which of the following statements regarding the Warm Zone is correct?
Which of the following statements regarding the Warm Zone is correct?
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When are downstream safety and upstream spotters required?
When are downstream safety and upstream spotters required?
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What is required for a shallow water crossing?
What is required for a shallow water crossing?
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What is not typically permitted for non-SWRT personnel in terms of Personal Flotation Devices (PFD)?
What is not typically permitted for non-SWRT personnel in terms of Personal Flotation Devices (PFD)?
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What should personnel do when flooding occurs?
What should personnel do when flooding occurs?
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What is included in the criteria for a Hot Zone?
What is included in the criteria for a Hot Zone?
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Which condition allows non-SWRT personnel to operate in the hot zone upstream of Seneca Breaks at Rileys Locks?
Which condition allows non-SWRT personnel to operate in the hot zone upstream of Seneca Breaks at Rileys Locks?
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What should personnel do when experiencing flooding?
What should personnel do when experiencing flooding?
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What equipment is specifically prohibited in the warm zone?
What equipment is specifically prohibited in the warm zone?
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What is the minimum depth of water required for a shallow water crossing?
What is the minimum depth of water required for a shallow water crossing?
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Under which circumstance can the Incident Commander (IC) increase Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements?
Under which circumstance can the Incident Commander (IC) increase Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements?
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Study Notes
Water Rescue Incident Action Plan (IRP Appendix M)
- Outlined for personnel certified by MCFRS at the Water Rescue Operations level, excluding Water Rescue Technicians and specific procedures for swift water rescue teams (SWRT).
- Designed to promote quick and decisive removal of individuals from hazards, based on risk analysis.
- Aims to reduce response time for SWRT resources.
Types of Water Rescue
- Swift Water Rescue: Involves moving water that flows faster than a person can walk comfortably.
- Flat Water Rescue: Involves water moving slower than an average person can walk.
- Ice Rescue: Pertains to water conditions regardless of quality or quantity, relating to swift or flat water scenarios.
Certification Levels
- Awareness Level: Basic training at practical rescue/tech site operations.
- Operations Level: Certification as Boat Crew or Operator by MCFRS.
- Technician Level: Certification as SWRT Boat Crew or SWRT Boat Operator by MCFRS.
- Emphasis on rational risk-based approaches due to high-stress situations with pressure from bystanders.
Common Water Incident Scenarios
- Urban Street Flooding: Rainfall surpassing stormwater management capacity leads to rapid water level rises that quickly lower.
- Creek Flooding: Overflowing banks with swift downstream flow.
- Flat Water Emergencies: Situations where individuals fall into water or become stranded on disabled crafts in specified areas.
General Incident Approach
- Actions must align with defined objectives and continuous risk assessment.
- Risk assessment aims for mission success despite increased risks to rescue personnel.
ACRE Method
- Assess: Evaluate scene, travel routes, staging, identify hazards and perform risk assessment.
- Control: Manage hazards, isolate dangerous areas, implement safety zones, including upstream and downstream support for SWRT.
- Rescue: Deploy resources and equipment to extricate individuals from hazards.
- Evacuate: Ensure the safe removal of victims.
Water Hazards
- The Potomac River below Seneca Breaks: Notable for difficult and hazardous conditions.
- Risk fluctuates with water levels; rapid urban flooding can change danger levels quickly.
- Moving water can displace manhole covers and undermine roads, while ice poses additional unpredictability.
Risk Assessment Insights
- High emotional stakes; teams must resist rushing without thorough assessment.
- Hidden hazards can lurk beneath water surfaces; speed increases the danger of being knocked off balance.
Risk Reduction Strategies
- Determine personnel certification levels, victim danger, and situational circumstances.
- Assess visible and potential hazards, and consider the time gap between initial responders and specialist teams.
- Evaluate scene stability based on water level dynamics.
Policy Guidelines
- Personnel must operate within their certification limits; SWRT only occupies swift water hot zones.
- Non-SWRT personnel can’t secure personal flotation devices (PFD) to ropes unless in ice rescue scenarios.
- In certain conditions, non-SWRT may work upstream of Seneca Breaks based on specific water level criteria.
- Communicate and monitor water conditions, emphasizing safety during floods.
Minimum PPE Requirements
- Properly sized flotation devices, approved helmets, whistles, and dry suits are mandated when conditions necessitate.
- The Incident Commander can increase PPE requirements as deemed necessary.
Zones of Operation
- Hot Zone: Water and the immediate vicinity; strict PPE required.
- Warm Zone: Extends a minimum of 10 feet from the water's edge; may require adjustments based on terrain and weather conditions.
Rescue Operations
- Boat-based rescues are preferable with trained personnel prior to SWRT arrival; key roles include downstream safety and upstream spotters.
- Teams should consist of pairs equipped with PFDs and throw bags for rapid response.
- Shallow water rescues are defined as water less than 18 inches deep for effective intervention.
Safety Plan Overview
- Tasks must match personnel certification levels to ensure safety.
- Swift Water Rescue Team (SWRT) only operates in the swift water hot zone.
- Non-SWRT personnel cannot connect personal flotation devices (PFDs) to ropes unless on ice.
Hot Zone Regulations
- No structural personal protective equipment (PPE) within 10 feet of the water, except for specific ice rescue scenarios.
- Non-SWRT can work in the hot zone above Seneca Breaks when water levels are below specified heights per gauges.
- Flooding scenarios mandate staying in place, securing objects to mark water edges, and continuous water level monitoring.
Minimum PPE Requirements
- Required in hot zones: properly sized flotation device, approved helmet, whistles, and dry suits if water/air temperatures are below 120°F or contaminated.
- Incident Commander (IC) may require increased PPE as deemed necessary.
Zones Defined
- Hot Zone: Directly associated with water hazards.
- Warm Zone: Extends at least 10 feet from the water, may expand based on environmental conditions.
- Warm Zone PPE requirements include PFD, throw bag (if available), and exclusion of structural PPE.
Personnel Roles and Safety Measures
- Boat-based rescues must ensure upstream spotters and downstream safety personnel are positioned effectively.
- Teams consist of two personnel equipped with PFDs and throw bags for rescue readiness.
Shallow Water Rescue Guidelines
- Define shallow water crossing as less than 18 inches deep for rescues.
- Ensure that personnel certified by MCFRS in water rescue operations are aware that this guidance does not pertain to SWRT.
Water Rescue Types
- Swift Water: Flowing faster than a person can comfortably walk.
- Flat Water: Flowing slower than a person can comfortably walk.
- Ice Rescue: Any situation involving water and ice, regardless of conditions.
Certification Levels
- Categories include Awareness Level, Operations Level, Technician Level, each with specific training and responsibilities.
- Risks are heightened during rescues due to public pressure; rational, risk-based decision-making is essential.
Common Emergency Scenarios
- Urban flooding occurs rapidly due to rainfall exceeding drainage capacity.
- Creek flooding leads to overflowing banks and quick downstream flow.
- Flat water emergencies result from individuals falling into or being stranded in watercraft.
General Approach to Water Incidents
- Prioritize clear objectives and situational risk analyses.
- Ensure mission success is feasible within the context of increased personal risks.
ACRE Method
- Assess: Scene, travel routes, staging areas, and hazards.
- Control: Isolate hazards, establish entry denial, and position spotters.
- Rescue: Deploy resources to remove individuals from danger.
- Evacuate: Safely remove victims from hazard areas.
Water Hazards Identification
- Potomac River below Seneca Breaks considered dangerous, with conditions that change based on water levels.
- Urban flooding risks can change dramatically in short time frames.
- Moving water may remove infrastructure, such as manhole covers, leading to further dangers.
Risk Assessment Guidelines
- Avoid rushing due to emotional pressure.
- Recognize hidden hazards beneath water surfaces.
- Assess the impact of fast-moving shallow water on personnel stability.
Risk Assessment Reduction Factors
- Consider certifications of personnel and circumstances surrounding incidents.
- Identify both obvious and potential hazards.
- Evaluate the time between first responders and specialized teams.
Risk Mitigation Strategies
- Effective incident command establishes structure for response.
- Encourage individuals to remain in place during receding flood scenarios.
- Mark water lines, monitor conditions, and ensure decoupled safety measures are enacted through designated roles.
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Description
This quiz focuses on the initial actions required for water rescue incidents, particularly tailored for personnel certified at the Water Rescue Operations level. It emphasizes the importance of decisive action and proper risk analysis during rescues. Note that it does not cover the operations for swift water rescue teams.
