330-02 Water Rescue

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary role of a Back-up Swimmer in a water rescue operation?

  • To execute the main rescue of the victim
  • To communicate rescue signals to the shore
  • To provide support and stand-by for the Primary Swimmer (correct)
  • To monitor water conditions for safety

Which classification applies to Fire Rescue personnel who possess superior swimming abilities and experience in ocean water?

  • Level I Basic Swimmer
  • Watermanship Proficient Swimmer
  • Level I Rescue Swimmer (correct)
  • Non-Swimmer

What is a requirement for Shore Support personnel during a water rescue?

  • They need to carry a rescue buoy at all times.
  • They should don a Fire Rescue issued Personal Flotation Device (PFD). (correct)
  • They must wear long pants for safety.
  • They should be in the water assisting with the rescue.

How should Spotters maintain a clear line-of-sight with deployed swimmers?

<p>By being on an elevated position and wearing a reflective vest (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What equipment must Level I Basic Swimmers possess during rescue operations?

<p>A rescue buoy and swim attire only (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following individuals is responsible for accounting for a specific deployed swimmer?

<p>Spotter (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Watermanship proficiency evaluation mentioned in the guidelines?

<p>To assess swimming abilities of Fire Rescue personnel (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which guideline specifically applies to the entire Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Emergency Operations personnel?

<p>SOG 330-02 Water Rescue (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using a water rescue paddle board in open water rescues?

<p>To stabilize victims by providing buoyancy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is required for extraction to safety when rescuing a victim?

<p>At least one swimmer per victim (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Spotter during a water rescue operation?

<p>To maintain visual sight of the victims and swimmers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which hand signal indicates that assistance is needed?

<p>One arm straight overhead (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should swimmers avoid when encountering submerged vehicles in moving water?

<p>Making full body entry inside the vehicle (A), Swimming directly towards the vehicle (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is a person with a radio required during boat operations?

<p>To communicate with the shore operation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After an incident, what procedural step should be taken according to established guidelines?

<p>Decontamination and contaminant reduction (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the event of a helicopter operation request, who is responsible for contacting external authorities?

<p>The Communication Center (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is required when a rescue operation has been initiated and there may be an imminent loss of life?

<p>A swimmer may be deployed with at least three Fire Rescue personnel on-scene. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During a water rescue operation, which of the following conditions would typically result in a shift from Rescue Mode to Recovery Mode?

<p>When the time exceeds one hour from submersion. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be assessed to determine if the Fire Rescue personnel can conduct operations in Rescue Mode?

<p>The swimming abilities of the available on-scene personnel. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What equipment is NOT part of the additional water rescue equipment listed for certain Fire Rescue Stations?

<p>Life jackets (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What enhances the safety of operations in a navigable waterway during a rescue?

<p>Deploying a dive flag to warn vessels. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it critical to gather information on the Last-Seen-Point in water rescues?

<p>To narrow the search area and prioritize rescue efforts. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following equipment would NOT typically be found in a basic water rescue team assembly?

<p>Lifeguard chairs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of water rescues, what is the significance of having Accountability Officers?

<p>To ensure all personnel involved in rescues are accounted for. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must be established to ensure the safety of swimmers during a water rescue?

<p>A point of entry and exit for swimmers. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of conducting a risk/benefit analysis prior to engaging in a rescue operation?

<p>To identify hazards at the scene to ensure safety. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In water rescue operations, how should bystander information be utilized?

<p>It should be used to assess the credibility of the incident. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the first arriving Fire Rescue unit during a water rescue operation regarding victims above the water?

<p>To gather information from witnesses and bystanders. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should the Incident Commander consider when determining the operations in Rescue Mode?

<p>The time since the victim was last seen. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What specific safety measure should be in place at night during water rescue operations?

<p>Minimum lighting on the shore and diver. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which role is PRIMARILY responsible for victim management on the shore during a water incident?

<p>Shore Support personnel (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the INITIAL required action to establish swimmer safety before entering the water?

<p>Accountability System Setup (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During a rescue operation involving moving water, what is a critical step to take when encountering a submerged vehicle?

<p>Maintain distance and assess for hazards (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the PRIMARY purpose of the Last-Seen-Point information in water rescue?

<p>To define the initial search area (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is the most critical reason to conduct a risk and benefit analysis before a rescue?

<p>To prioritize swimmer safety versus victim urgency (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a water rescue, what is the first action to take when verbal communication with the victim is possible?

<p>Assist the victim with self-rescue (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which rescue technique should be attempted before deploying a swimmer in the water?

<p>Reaching with a rescue buoy or pole (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During open water rescues, what is the primary use of a rescue paddle board?

<p>To stabilize victims with buoyancy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of swimmers required for a victim's extraction to the shore?

<p>One swimmer per victim (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for contacting Law Enforcement or the Coast Guard to help with a helicopter rescue?

<p>Communication Center (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential for Shore Support personnel to wear a Fire Rescue-issued Personal Flotation Device (PFD) or buoyancy compensator with an emergency inflation device?

<p>To provide a means of buoyancy in case of accidental entry into the water. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what scenario would it be MOST critical for Shore Support personnel to utilize the emergency inflation device on their buoyancy compensator?

<p>If they become unexpectedly submerged in turbulent water and need immediate flotation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What inherent limitation exists regarding the PFD requirement for Shore Support personnel?

<p>The PFD may impede mobility in confined spaces or on unstable terrain. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Under which circumstance might a Fire Rescue-issued buoyancy compensator be preferred over a standard PFD for Shore Support personnel?

<p>When the potential for needing to assist with an in-water rescue is heightened. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the requirement for Shore Support to wear a PFD contribute to the overall safety strategy of a water rescue operation?

<p>It reduces the likelihood of Shore Support personnel becoming victims themselves, ensuring continuity of the operation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What specific advantage does a buoyancy compensator with an emergency inflation device offer compared to a standard PFD in a dynamic water rescue scenario?

<p>The ability to fine-tune buoyancy for various body weights and equipment loads. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important that the PFD or buoyancy compensator be 'Fire Rescue issued'?

<p>To ensure standardized training and familiarity across all personnel, enhancing operational efficiency. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of a water rescue, what is the potential risk of NOT using a Fire Rescue issued and approved PFD or buoyancy compensator?

<p>The equipment may lack essential safety features or not meet required performance standards. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What strategic advantage is gained by having Shore Support personnel equipped with emergency inflation devices on their PFDs or buoyancy compensators during a complex water rescue operation?

<p>It provides a redundant safety measure, ensuring rapid flotation even if the primary buoyancy system fails. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How would the PFD or buoyancy compensator requirement be adapted for Shore Support personnel working close to fast-moving water versus those in a command post further away from the water's edge?

<p>There would be no difference in the requirement; all Shore Support personnel must wear the specified equipment regardless of proximity to the water. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of Fire Rescue personnel required on-scene before deploying a swimmer for immediate life-saving action?

<p>Three (3) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When should a swimmer be deployed with only the minimum number of personnel on scene?

<p>When immediate action may prevent imminent loss of life (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the minimum number of three Fire Rescue personnel important before deploying a swimmer?

<p>To ensure the safety and support of the deployed swimmer. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances is it permissible to deploy a swimmer with the minimum number of on-scene personnel?

<p>If delaying action could result in death. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most critical factor to consider when deciding to deploy a swimmer with only three personnel on scene?

<p>The likelihood of saving a life. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If there is no imminent threat to life, how many Fire Rescue personnel are required on scene to deploy a swimmer?

<p>An appropriate number as determined by risk assessment. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should fire rescue personnel consider before deploying a swimmer with the minimum of three personnel?

<p>If the potential for saving a life outweighs the risk to the swimmer. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a situation where immediate action is needed, what is the primary justification for deploying a swimmer with only three personnel?

<p>The potential to prevent a death outweighs the increased risk (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What defines a situation where it is allowable to deploy a swimmer with the minimum personnel?

<p>A situation where waiting for more resources would likely result in loss of life. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What kind of scenario would justify sending in a swimmer with only 3 personnel?

<p>A person struggling in the water and showing signs of drowning. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of Fire Rescue personnel required to be on-scene before initiating a rescue operation?

<p>Four (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides the Incident Commander, how many other Fire Rescue personnel must be present for a rescue operation?

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

Who must be present at the minimum to conduct a rescue operation.

<p>The Incident Commander (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What capability should the minimum number of Fire Rescue personnel possess for a rescue operation?

<p>Victim extraction (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of ensuring a minimum number of personnel are present before initiating a rescue?

<p>To reduce the risk to rescuers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which role is always required when conducting a rescue operation?

<p>Incident Commander (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor determines the level of operational capability required of Fire Rescue personnel for victim extraction?

<p>The complexity of the rescue environment (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides the Incident Commander and three personnel, what else should be considered before extraction?

<p>The level of operational capability required (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If Fire Rescue personnel do NOT possess the required operational capability for extraction, what is the next appropriate action?

<p>Request additional resources. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does having a sufficient number of trained personnel (minimum of four) contribute to the safety of a rescue operation?

<p>It allows for better task distribution and support. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What victim information should be obtained regarding clothing?

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

What information about the victim's swimming abilities should be obtained?

<p>Swimming abilities (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What precise information is important regarding when the victim was last seen?

<p>Time the victim was last seen (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to determine the count of victims in a water rescue scenario?

<p>To determine the appropriate number of rescuers needed (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What specific information is relevant regarding the age of the victim?

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

Which piece of victim information dictates allocation of rescue resources?

<p>Number of victims (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In water rescue, why gather details on when the victim was last seen?

<p>To track movement and direction (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is obtaining the victim's age important during a water rescue?

<p>Impacts the use of rescue techniques (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of a victim's attire is crucial during a water rescue operation?

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

What patient information needs to be obtained regarding swimming ability?

<p>Swimming abilities (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Water Rescue Phases

A series of predetermined actions taken in a water rescue situation, designed to ensure the safety of both rescuers and victims.

Phase 1: Stabilization

Stabilize the victim in the water by providing buoyancy with a rescue aid like a paddle board, rescue buoy, or PFD.

Phase 2: Extraction

Moving the victim from the water to a safe location like a boat, shore, or jet ski.

Spotter

A designated person responsible for maintaining visual contact with the swimmers and victims during a water rescue.

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Shore to Swimmer Hand Signals

Signals used to communicate with swimmers from the shore, indicating things like "I'm okay", "Assistance Needed", or "Victim Submerged."

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Swimmer to Shore Hand Signals

Signals used by swimmers to communicate with shore personnel, indicating things like "Move to that Direction", "Remain Stationary", or "Come Towards Shore."

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Boat Radio Operator

A person with a radio assigned to a boat during a water rescue operation, responsible for communication with the shore.

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After Action Review

A review conducted after a water rescue incident to analyze the event, identify areas for improvement, and learn from mistakes.

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Non-Swimmer

Fire Rescue personnel who do not swim and are prohibited from entering the water.

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Level I Basic Swimmer

Fire Rescue personnel possessing basic swimming abilities and are authorized to enter the water in specific rescue scenarios.

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Level I Rescue Swimmer

Fire Rescue personnel with advanced swimming skills and experience in open water environments. They are designated for primary water rescue tasks.

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Primary Swimmer

The primary swimmer deployed directly into the water during a rescue operation.

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Back-up Swimmer

A swimmer who remains on standby, ready to be deployed if the primary swimmer requires assistance.

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Shore Support Personnel

Fire Rescue personnel assigned to non-water tasks during a water rescue operation, including medical, logistics, and decontamination crews.

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Victim

An individual who needs to be rescued from the water.

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Incident Safety Officer

Dedicated personnel responsible for ensuring the safety of all firefighters in the water rescue operation.

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Work Area

A designated area where all the rescue efforts and operations take place, secured by firefighters and law enforcement to prevent interference.

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Dive Flag

A visible marker used to alert boats in a navigable area about the presence of divers or rescue operations.

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Last-Seen-Point

A designated point where a swimmer ventures out to the last seen location of the victim.

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Rescue Mode

The situation in a water rescue where there is still a possibility of saving the victim's life.

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Recovery Mode

The operation conducted when saving the victim is no longer a possibility and the focus is on retrieving the body.

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REACH

The method of using a rescue buoy, pole, or other objects to reach and pull a victim out of the water.

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TALK

The method of communicating verbally with the victim to assist them in self-rescue if possible.

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Water Rescue Equipment

Equipment used by rescuers to assist with the rescue operation, including but not limited to ropes, paddle boards, and fins.

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Scene Size-up

The process of gathering information from witnesses and identifying the location where the victim was last seen during the water rescue.

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Accountability Officer

An individual assigned to record and track the status and location of personnel during rescue operations involving multiple swimmers.

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Risk/Benefit Analysis

The process of evaluating the risks and benefits of sending rescuers into the water during a water rescue operation.

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NFPA 1670

A standard for operations and training related to specialized rescue incidents, such as those involving technical challenges or specialized equipment.

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Water Rescue Action Plan

A series of steps taken during a water rescue, starting with the least risky and progressing to more invasive methods as needed.

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Emergency Swimmer Deployment

Allows for immediate deployment of a swimmer when imminent loss of life is possible, provided at least three fire rescue personnel are present on-scene.

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Minimum Rescue Team Size

The minimum personnel required for a rescue operation is an Incident Commander and three other operationally capable Fire Rescue personnel.

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Number of Victims

The total number of individuals involved in the incident requiring rescue.

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Clothing Colors

The colors of the clothing worn by the victim(s).

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Victim's Age

The approximate age of the victim(s).

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Swimming Abilities

The swimming capabilities of the victim(s), whether they are strong swimmers, weak swimmers, or non-swimmers.

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Time Last Seen

The last known time the victim(s) were seen before the rescue operation commenced.

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Study Notes

Operational Classifications

  • Non-Swimmer: Unable to enter water.
  • Level I Basic Swimmer: Possesses basic swimming abilities.
  • Level I Rescue Swimmer: Exhibits superior swimming abilities and ocean water experience.
  • Company Officers: Authorized to evaluate abilities using the Watermanship proficiency evaluation.
  • Swimmer Definition: Refers to Level I Basic or Rescue Swimmer, unless specified otherwise.
  • Technical Rescue Personnel: Subject to specific training and certification requirements that may supersede standard swimmer qualifications. NFPA 1670 provides baseline guidelines.

Assignments

  • Primary Swimmer: Actively deployed in the water.
  • Back-up Swimmer: On standby for potential deployment.
  • Spotter: Responsible for monitoring a specific deployed swimmer.
  • Shore Support: Assigned to non-water activities, such as medical assistance, transport, and decontamination.
  • Victim: The individual requiring rescue.

Equipment

  • All Personnel: Must have Fire Rescue issued PFD or buoyancy compensator with emergency inflation device.
  • Spotters: Should be in an elevated position, wearing a reflective vest, and equipped with binoculars.
  • Level I Basic Swimmers: Swim attire (no long pants), rescue buoy (red), and long blade fins.
  • Level I Rescue Swimmers: All Level I Basic Swimmer equipment plus water rescue rope, paddle board, and short blade fins.
  • Specialized Equipment (Stations 15, 18, 37, 38, 91): Water rescue paddle board, rescue rope, short blade fins, board shorts, dive light, portable air horn, flare gun, binoculars, and marker flags.
  • Additional Equipment: May be required based on incident specifics, including specialized life vests, buoyancy aids, or rescue gear.

General

  • Accountability: Requires an Accountability Officer for 2+ swimmers, with additional Accountability Officers as needed; 1 spotter per swimmer.
  • Risk/Benefit Analysis: Requires assessment of scene hazards (weather, surf, currents, ingress/egress, swimmer abilities); may require Dive Team request ahead of time; rescue decision depends on victim viability and personnel risk.
  • Rescue/Recovery Mode: Rescue Mode is less than 1 hour post-submersion and indicates possible rescue; Recovery Mode is where no rescue is possible (typically transferred to Law Enforcement). Criteria include victim’s location, time since submersion, personnel abilities, witness credibility, and water conditions.
  • Rescue Mode Operations: Requires Incident Commander and 3+ personnel with capabilities for victim extraction; may deploy swimmer when imminent loss of life.
  • NFPA 1670 Compliance: Relevant sections of NFPA 1670 that pertain to technical water rescue operations must be adhered to.

Scene Size-up

  • Victims Above Water: Gather information from bystanders, determine the number of victims, and consider requesting additional resources.
  • Victims Below Water: Establish "Last-Seen-Point", interview witnesses separately; mark location based on witness statements or landmarks, direct swimmer to mark the location with a pelican float; gather victim information (number, clothing, age, swimming ability, time last seen).
  • Safety Considerations: Deploy a dive flag (in navigable water or at night), establish a designated work area limiting access to essential personnel, establish entry/exit points for swimmers, and ensure proper hand signal use.
  • NFPA 1670 Considerations: Evaluate the scene for potential hazards, such as underwater currents, unstable shorelines or submerged objects affecting swimmer safety, and refer to appropriate NFPA 1670 guidelines.

Open Water Rescue

  • No Unsupervised Underwater Searching: Unless directly witnessed, do not dive below the surface. Refer to SOG 330-03 Dive Rescue.
  • Rescue Sequence: Talk, reach, throw, row, or go (surface and extraction) – TALK, REACH, THROW, ROW, GO.
  • Additional Personnel: Aim for minimum 1 Primary Swimmer per victim, 1 Backup Swimmer per Primary Swimmer, 1 Spotter per Primary Swimmer, medical presence, incident safety officer, transport units.
  • Water Surface Rescue Operations: Employ water rescue paddle boards or other tools for victim buoyancy and extraction to safety.
  • NFPA 1670 Considerations: Proper training and equipment selection for open water rescues per NFPA 1670 factoring in water conditions, obstacles, and risks.

Hand Signals

  • General Communication: Used between swimmer and shore support.
  • Swimmer to Shore Signals: One arm bent (on head); one arm straight overhead; one arm waving; two arms crossed overhead
  • Shore to Swimmer Signals: "I'm Okay", "Assistance Needed", "HELP, DEPLOY BACK-UP SWIMMER!", "Victim Submerged", directions related to vehicle or vessel movement in the water.
  • NFPA 1670 Considerations: Refer to NFPA 1670 for standardized hand signals for clarity and safety.

Vehicles/Vessels

  • Avoid Submerged Vehicles in Moving Water: Request a Dive Team in these situations.
  • Submerged Vehicles/Vessels (Still Water): Swimmers do not fully enter vehicles/vessels.
  • NFPA 1670 Considerations: Evaluate for potential vehicle stability during rescue.

Boat Operations

  • Designated Radio Operator: Someone on board the boat must handle communication with shore.
  • GPS Use: Use of GPS is encouraged when available.
  • NFPA 1670 Considerations: Boat's stability and capacity should be considered.

Post-Incident

  • Decon/Contamination: Follow Fire Rescue SOGs for decontamination procedures.
  • After Action Review: Conduct a review after each incident.
  • NFPA 1670 Considerations: Include lessons learned from the rescue in the after-action review to improve future operations.

Additional Actions

  • Water Rescue Sequence (Updated): The sequence is TALK, REACH, THROW, ROW, GO:
    • Phase one: Stabilize the victim(s) using buoyancy aids (paddle boards, rescue buoys, PFDs)
    • Phase two: Extraction to safety (boat, jet ski, shore).
  • Extraction: At least one swimmer per victim is required, but more may be needed.
  • HELO: Helicopter operations may be requested by the Incident Commander through the Communication Center, who will contact Law Enforcement or Coast Guard.
  • Shore Support PFDs: Shore Support personnel should don a Fire Rescue issued Personal Flotation Device (PFD) or buoyancy compensator with emergency inflation device.
  • A swimmer may be deployed when immediate action may prevent the imminent loss of life, with a minimum of three (3) Fire Rescue personnel on-scene.
  • When the decision is made to conduct a rescue operation there should be a minimum of an Incident Commander and three (3) other Fire Rescue personnel who possess the level of operational capability required to extract the victim.

Scene Size-up

  • Victims Below Water:
    • Obtain the following victim information:
      • Number of victims
      • Clothing colors
      • Age
      • Swimming abilities
      • Time the victim was last seen

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