Buffalo Fire Department Search & Rescue Training PDF

BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 1 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 SEARCH AND RESCUE OPERATIONS THE OVERALL PURPOSE OF THIS LESSON IS THEM TO...

BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 1 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 SEARCH AND RESCUE OPERATIONS THE OVERALL PURPOSE OF THIS LESSON IS THEM TO CARRY OUT SEARCH & RESCUE OPERATIONS AS SAFELY AND EFFICIENTLY AS POSSIBLE GIVEN THE TACTICAL SITUATION. THE OBJECTIVE OF THE LESSON IS THAT UPON COMPLETION OF THIS LESSON YOU WILL BE ABLE TO GIVE FROM MEMORY, THE MAJOR FACTORS THAT MUST BE CONSIDERATION OF THE RESCUER, THE VISTIM, THE SEARCH & RESCUE ENVIORMENT, SEARCH AND RESCUE SIZE UP, STRAGEGIC CONSIDERATIONS AND SOME TACTICAL PROCEDURES THAT WILL HELP IN METTING THE STATIGIC OBJECTIVES OF SEARCH & RESCUE MISSIONS. THE RESCUER THE OBJECTIVE OF THIS SECTION IS THAT THE FIRE FIGHTER, HAVING READ THE MATERIAL, WILL BE ABLE TO GIVE FROM MEMORY, THE CONDITIONS THAT ARE GENERALLY PRESENT WHEN A FIRE FIGHTER IS INJURED, WHAT THE RESULTS WILL BE, THE NUMBER OF MEN LOST WHEN AN INUURY IS INCURRED AND WHAT STEPS CAN BE TAKEN TO PREVENT IT. THEY WILL BE ABLE TO TAKE THE NESSECARY STEPS TOPREVENT THEM WHEN OPERATING ON THE FIRE GROUND. COLLAPSE OF FIREFIGHTERSON THE FIRE GROUND OCCURS WITH TRAGIC REGULARITY. A GREAT MANY TIMES WHEN THIS OCCURS, ONE OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS WILL BE PRESENT. 1. THE FIREFIGHTER WILL BE IN POOR PHYSICAL CONDITION. 2. ADDITIONAL FIREFIGHTERS WILL BE REQUIRED TO ASSIT THE INJURED FIREFIGHTER 3. POSSIBLE OVERALL FAILURE OF THE SEARCH & RESCUE MISSION 4. INJURY OR DEATH TO THE FIREFIGHTER WILL SERIOUSLT AFFECTS THEIR FAMILY AND/OR OTHERS. IF A FIREFIGHTER IS INJURED DURING OPERATIONS IT GENERALLY REQUIERS THREE (3) ADDIONAL FIREFIGHTERS TO BE COMMITTED TO ASSIST THEM. ANY FIREFIGHTER IS SUBJECTED TO ANXIETY AND EXERTION DURRING AN OPERATION. THE HIGHER LEVEL OF ANXIETY AND EXERTION OCCURS DURING SEARCH & RESCUE MISSIONS. A DIAGRAM OF THIS WOULD SHOW THAT THESE TWO FACTORS, THREE MAJOR STEPS BY FIREFIGHTERS THAT WILL ASSIST THEM IN CARRYING OUT RESCUE MISSIONS AND ALL FIREFIGHTING OPERATIONS ARE: BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 2 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 1. CONDITIONING: A WELL-CONDITIONED FIREFIGHTER IS LESS PRONE TO INJURY. INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES VARY GREATLY. 2. PROTECTIVE GEAR: PROPERLY WORN AND MAINTAINED CAN PREVENT INJURY. 3. SCBA: PROPERLY WORN AND MAINTAINED, ALONG WITH PROPER TRAINING. THE VICTIM UP TO THIS POINT WE HAVE STRESSED THAT FIREFIGHTERS MUST BE CONDITIONED AND PROPERLY WEAR GEAR & SCBA. THE VITIM DOESN'T HAVE PROTECTIVE GEAR OR SCBAS AND IN ADDITION THEY MAY BE IN POOR PHYSICAL CONDITION. THEREFORE THE VICTIM IS SUFFERING THE MOST SEVERE RESULT OF THE HEAT, SMOKE, AND OTHER CONDITIONS PRESENT IN A FIRE SITUATION. THEY ARE BEING INJURED IS EVEDENT BUT MANY CIRCUMSTANCES AND VARIABLES WILL DICTATE THE DEGREE OF INJURY. THE RESCUER MUST TAKE INTO ACCOUNT OTHER CONSIDERATIONS WHEN DEALING WITH A VICTIM, EMOTIONAL STATE, AND STATE OF CONSCIOUSNESS. THE VITIMS AWARENESS LEVEL CAN ALSO VARY GREATLY FROM TOTAL CONSCIOSNESS TO UNCONSCIOUSNES AND ANYWHERE IN BETWEEN. AN ALERT VITIM WILL BE ABLE TO ALERT YOU TO THERE LOCATION AND POSSIBLY ASSIST YOU IN THEIR RESCUE. AN UNCONSIOUS VITIM CANNOT, THIS VITIM WOULD BE CONSIDERED TO BE AT HIGH RISK. THERE ARE SOME GENERAL CLASSIFICATIONS OF PEOPLE WHO FALL INTO A SO CALLED HIGH RISK GROUP. THE VERY YOUNGE: THEY HAVE THE LEAST UNDERSTANDING OF THE DANGERS AND IN MANY CASES WOULD NOT BE SUFFICENTLY DEVELOPED PHYSICALLY OR MENTALLY SO THEY COULD TAKE ACTIONS THAT WOULD REMOVE THEMSELFS FROM DANGER. THE VERY OLD: THEY MAY NOT HAVE AN UNDER STANDING OF THE PROBLEM. THEIR PHYSICAL ABILITIES MAY BE IMPAIRED TO THE POINT THAT EVEN WITH KNOWLEDGE OF THE SITUATION. THEY MIGHT NOT BE ABLE TO ESCAPE. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 3 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 THE ILL: THEY MAY BE UNAWARE OF THERE SURROUNDINGS. THEY MAY BE RESTRAINED IN BED OR A CHAIR FOR THEIR OWN PROTECTION. THEIR HEALTH CONDITION MAY PRECLUDE THEIR MOVING FROM ONE POINT TO ANOTHER. LARGE GOUPS OF PEPLE IN PUBLIC ASSEMBLY: IT IS GENERALLY ACCEPTED THAT AS THE SIZE OF A GROUP OF PEOPLE INCREASE, THE PROBABILITY OF PANIC INCREASES TREMENDOUSLY. 1. SELDOM WILL THEY CHECK THE EMERGENCY EXIT LOCATIONS. THERE FORE THEY ALMOST ALWAYS ATTEMPT TO LEAVE THE AREA THE SAME WAY THEY ENTERED. 2. IN THESE SITUATIONS THEY MAY REACT IRRATIONALLY GOING INTO DANGER TO GET A COAT OR OTHER BELONGINGS. 3. ONE CRY OF PANIC BY ONE PERSON CAN STAMPEDE AN EXTEMELY LARGE GROUP THAT PREVIOUSLY WAS UNDER CONTROL OF ITSELF. 4. MANY TIMES A LARGE OPEN AREA WILL BE INVOLVED AND IF THE SEATS AND/OR TABLES ARE NOT ANCHORED, THEY WILL BE IN TOTAL DISARRY CAUSING DISORIENTATION. 5. THE LIGHTING WILL OFTEN FAIL CAUSING EVEN MORE PANIC AND DISORIENTATION. FIREFIGHTERS AS VICTIMS: THE FIREFIGHTER ON A SEARCH & RESCUE MISSION CAN EASILY BECOME A VICTIM. THIS CAN COME ABOUT FOR MANY REASONS BUT SOME OF THE MAIN ONES ARE: 1. SERIOUSLY INJURED 2. TRAPPED 3. DISORIENTED 4. PHYSICAL COLLAPSE ALTHOUGH ONLY FOUR POSSIBLE REASONS FOR A FIRE FIGHTER BECOMING A VICTIM HAVE BEEN STATED, IT MUST BE UNDERSTOOD THAT THE TACTICAL CIRCUMSTANCES CAN BE SUCH THAT MANY OTHERS ARE PRESENT. THESE HAZARDS CAN BE PRESENT SINGLY OR IN ALMOST ANY COMBINATION AND NUMBER. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 4 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 PROTECTION AVAIBLE FOR THE FIREFIGHTER THE RESCUERS ENVIROMENT: THE FIRE ENVIROMENT IN NEVER STATIC. IT FOLLOWS THAT THE SAME PRINCIPLE CAN BE APPLIED TO THE RESCUERS ENVIROMENT. IT IS ALWAYS CHANGING FOR THE BETTER OR WORSE UNTIL CONTAINMENT AND CONTROL IS ACCOMPLISED. THE STRUCTURE, THE ATMOSPHERE AND ANY PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT ARE DEGRADING UNTIL SUCH TIME AS THE VICTIM ARE REMOVED FROM ALL OF THE HAZARDS. FIRE SUPPRESSION EFFORTS HAVE A DIRECT EFFECT ON THE SEARCH & RESCUE PORTION OF THE OPERATION: VENTILATION: CAN INCREASE THE VISIBILITY AND REDUCE BACKDRAFT POSSIBLILITIES. BUT CAN ALSO CAUSE FLAME PRODUCTION TO INCREASE ALONG WITH HEAT LEVELS CAUSING SEARCH & RESCUE OPERATIONS TO BECOME IMPOSSIBLE. WATER APPLICATION: THIS CAN REDUCE THE HEAT LEVELS AND FIRE SPREAD BUT IN RETURN STEAM CAN BE PRODUCED CAUSING ZERO VISIBILITY. HOWEVER AS IN ALL FIRE GROUND OPERATIONS, OTHER FACTORS MUST BE WEIGHED PRIOR TO CARRYING OUT AN ACTION. THE STRUCURAL STABILITY OF THE RESCUE AREAS PRESENTS A CONSTANT THREAT TO THE FIREFIGHTERS AND VICTIM. CONSTANT THREAT OF BACKDRAFT OR FLASHOVER ARE PRESENT. FIREFIGHTERS MUST CONSTANTLY BE ALERT TO THE POSSIBLILITY OF THESE PROBLEMS.THE CONSTRUCTION OF A BUILDING WILL HAVE DIRECT BEARING ON ITS REACTION TO THE FORCES OF FIRE. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 5 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 FIRE RESISTIVE: FEW PROBLEMS IN THE AREA OF COLLAPSE BUT WILL GIVE THE RESCUER CONDITIONS THAT ARE LIKE WORKING IN A FURNACE. LIGHT STEEL OR WOOD FRAME CONSTRUCTION: TRUSSES MAY LEAD TO EARLY SELF-VENTILATION BUT THE DANGERS OF A FIREFIGHTER BECOMING A VICTIM OF A COLLAPSE ARE SERVING. HEAVY TIMBER: GENERALLY MAINTAIN STABILITY FOR A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME BUT THE DANGERS OF FLASHOVER AND FIRE ADVANCE IN CONCEALED SPACES ARE SEVERE. FLASHOVER OR FIRE IN CONCEALED AREAS CAN QUICKLY RESULT IN THE RECUERS BEING OVERRUN OR CUT OFF BY FIRE AND THUS BECOMING A VICTIM. THE PRE PLAN: THE SEARCH & RESCUE PRE PLAN IS VERY SIMILAR TO AN OVERALL FIRE PREPLAN IN THAT IT SHOULD: 1. CONSIDER ALL THE HAZARDS OF THE OCCUPANCY THAT MAY MAKE A SEARCH & RESCUE OPERATION NECESSARY. 2. CINSIDER ALL THE RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO YOU TO MEET THESE HAZARDS. HAZARDS: 1. OCCUPANCY: WHAT IS THE NORMAL USE OF THE STRUCTURE AND WHO WILL NORMALLY BE IN IT.? 2. CONFIGURATION OF THE OCCUPANCY: THIS REFERS TO HOW THE BUILDING INTERIOR IS SUB-DEVIDED INTO ROOMS, CORRIDORS AND OTHER INTERIOR DIVISION FEATURES. 3. TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION: MATERIALS UTILIZED IN THE STRUCTURE AND HOW THEY ARE HELD TOGETHER. A. WOOD FRAME: BALLOON, PLATFORM OR PLANK B. ORDINARY: EXTERIOR WALLS MASONARY OR BRICK, INTERIOR WALLS WOOD. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 6 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 B. FIRE RESISTIVE: BOTH INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR WALLS ARE MASSONARY OR BRICK ANS NON-CONBUSTABLE. C. NON-CONBUSTIBLE: WHERE ALL EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR WALLS ARE MADE OF UNPROTECTED METAL. 4. BUILDING USE: BUSSNESS OR RESIDENT. 5. HOUR OF OCCUPANCY: USE OF BUILDING WILL GIVE YOU OCCUPANCY. 6. SPECIAL HAZARDS: BUILDING CONTENTS. DWELLINGS: IF THE OUTSIDE OF THE BUILDING IS THE SAME AS THE OTHERS ON THE STREET AND ENTRANCE LOCATIONS ARE THE SAME, GENERALLY THE INTERIOR LAYOUT WILL BE SIMULARE. APARTMENT BUILDINGS: EACH APPARTMENT SHOULD BE SIMILAR IN DESIGN. ONE CAUTION THOUGH THERE MAY BE ONE, TWO OR THREE BEDROOM APPRTMENTS WITH CONSIDERABLE DIFFERENT CHARACTERISTICS. COMMERCIAL: THESE MUST BE PRE-PLANED SEPARETLY. Emergency procedures Missing or trapped firefighter: A member absent from any company team should automatically be presumed missing or trapped in the hazardous area until otherwise determined to be safe. Personnel shall immediately report any absent member to the IC. The IC shall immediately request a PAR of all personnel operating at the incident to locate the missing or trapped personnel and to verify that other personnel are not missing. Any firefighter missing, in imnidinent danger, in need to immediate assistance or trapped shall take the following actions to alert others of the need for immediate assistance:  Missing or trapped firefighters shall use the radio to clear the radio channel for their emergency message.  The Term MAYDAY shall be used to alert others of this of this dangerous situation. MAYDAY shall only be used when personnel believe they are in danger and need to be rescued from potential life-threating situations.  Personnel giving the MAYDAY shall identify their team; provide their location, Fire or hazard conditions and the entry point used. Who, What, Where.  PASS device shall be turned ON to provide rescuer with an audible signal for locating missing or trapped personnel. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 7 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 When notified of missing or trapped firefighters the IC and other personnel on the scene shall focus their efforts in an attempt to protect and rescue those missing or trapped. The following actions shall take place: 1. A minimum of one additional engine crew shall requested to the scene, to reinforce the efforts of those already performing rescue, in addition to the personnel needs due to serious potential for fire or hazard extension. 2. Radio messages shall be restricted to emergency traffic only. With this in mind, those involved in the rescue operation should be assigned the tactical channel used by those needing rescue. Other operations shall be assigned different channels. 3. A Rapid Intervention Team/FAST team shall immediately be assigned to the rescue operation. A hose line or lines shall be provided for this effort. 4. Hand lines and master streams (fog 30-60 degrees) shall be directed toward the position of the missing or trapped firefighter in an effort to protect them from the effects of the fire or hazard as appropriate. The operations officer shall coordinate this action. In the event of a situation where personnel not at the incident hear a MAYDAY transmission and realize that those on the incident scene have not heard it, it shall be the responsibility of personnel who heard such a message to immediately alert the IC and/or communications that a MAYDAY has been transmitted and provide any essential information. At the conclusion of an incident involving missing or trapped firefighters the IC shall notify all units operating on the scene t return to normal operations and elimination of emergency radio restrictions. Need for emergency breathing procedures: While properly maintained SCBA units generally function as designed and are very reliable. At times events at the scene of an emergency can cause problems or malfunctions of these units. This section is designed to familiarize our members with actions that can be taken should a malfunction occur. SCBA units malfunction due to:  Physical damage.  Environment damage from: 1. Heat, 2. Cold 3. Water 4. Contaminants. SCBA users must develop the mental and physical ability to: 1. Diagnose reason for malfunction. 2. Initiate corrective action. 3. Initiate emergency breathing procedures necessary for survival as they physically exit contaminated atmospheres with team members. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 8 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 Procedures when Emergency Breathing Procedures are needed: 1. All emergency procedures begin with initiating corrective action, notifying your team members and leaving the area together. 2. In a team, when one firefighter encounters an SCBA malfunction or failure, the other team members immediately become the “rescuer” and assist in removing the troubled firefighter to a safe area. 3. All emergency procedures listed are meant to be used during the time necessary to exit the contaminated atmosphere and reach an area of safe refuge. Emergency Breathing Procedures: 1. Controlled Breathing- a conscious effort to reduce air consumption by forcing exhalation from the mouth and allowing natural inhalation through the nose. Without this technique, CO2 build up in the face piece and breathing rate increases. This can and should be used at all times to conserve your air supply. 2. Skip Breathing – takes a breath and holds it for as long as possible, then take another short breathe exhaling slowly. Use normal breaths and exhale slowly. This method can extend any reaming air supply and allows more time to reach a safe atmosphere. Skip breathing does not replace controlled breathing and should only be used if needed. 3. Use of emergency by-pass valve – Emergency By-pass breathing may be used in the event of a regulator malfunction.  Slightly open emergency by-pass valve (Red Valve)  Shut by-pass valve until more air is needed.  Immediately notify partner and exit contaminated area while controlling airflow by use of the emergency by-pass. 4. Use of cylinder valve to control airflow. - In the event of a free flow of air through the regulator that cannot be controlled by using either the main line valve or the emergency valve, the use of controlling air flow by closing and opening the cylinder valve should be tried before using other options. a. Try to control flow with emergency by-pass or mainline valve. b. If unable to control flow with either mainline or by-pass, use the cylinder valve to control flow and use the same procedure as used in by-pass breathing. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 9 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 5. Breathing directly from regulator - In the event of damage to the face piece.  Disconnect face piece from regulator.  Place regulator discharge port to mouth.  While breathing directly from the regulator, immediately exit the contaminated area with team members. NOTE: If regulator is allowing air to escape outside of the unit, other emergency procedures should be used. These two procedures allow you to keep your face piece on while still providing you with a supply of air as you exit. 6. Breathing directly forms the cylinder – In the event of regulator failure.  Close the cylinder valve.  Hold breath while doffing complete unit.  Disconnect high-pressure hose from the cylinder valve.  Cup your hand around discharge outlet and partially open the cylinder.  Exit the contaminated area with team members. 7. Using turnout gear as filter –  When air supply is exhausted due to use or mechanical problems: i. Leave the face piece on and disconnect regulator. ii. Place glove or nomex over opening in mask. iii. Exit area with team members. 8. Buddy breathing (Not recommended because it threatens health and safety of both firefighters) While the following procedures are not certified by NIOSH and violate NFPA, OSHA, and ANSI standards, manufacturers’ recommendation and are not condoned by the department due to liability issues, they are presented for your guidance in extreme circumstances. THESE ARE THE LAST RESORTS AND SHOULD ONLY BE USED WHENALL OTHER EMERGENCY PROCEDURES CANNOT BE USED. THE FACTS TIME, DAY OF THE WEEK AND THE SEASON MUST BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION AND WEIGHED AGAINST THE OCCUPANCY. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 10 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 WEATHER: HEAT, COLD, PRECIPITATION, HUMIDITY, FOG AND SNOW ALL SHOULD HAVE A BEARING ON THE DESISIONS AND ACTIONS YOU MAKE. OCCUPANCY: RESIDENTIAL, SINGLE OR MULTI FAMILY INCLUDING MULTI DWELLING, GARDEN APPARTMENTS AND HIGH RISE. EACH OF THE SUB DIVISIONS IN THE RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCY CATEGORY PRESENT UNIQUE PROBLEMS THAT MUST BE CONSIDERED IN YOUR SEARCH & RESCUE OPERATION. STREET ACCESS: CAN IT ACCOMODATE THE PROPER APPARATUS IN THE PROPER LOCATIONS, WILL SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS BE REQUIERED TO ENSURE EVERYTHING GOES SMOOTHLY. TERRAIN: WILL THE GROUND AFFECT LADDERING OR LINE PLACMENT. OTHER BUILDINGS: ARE THEY POSITIONED SO THAT THEY ARE THREATENED IN A WAY TO EXPAND YOUR SEARCH? NATURE OF THE CALL FIRE: REPORT OF A FIRE IN A DWELLING SHOULD GET YOU MIND WORKING AS TO WHAT WIL BE NEEDED. REPORT OF SMOKE: THIS SHOULD NOT BE PRESUMED MINOR. PLAN AS IF A REPORT OF A FIRE. EXPLOSION: HEAVY RESCUE EQUIPMENT MAY BE NEEDED; THERE MAY BE POSSIBLE OF COLAPSE AND WIDE SPREAD FIRE. LIFE HAZARDS MOST THREATENED: ANY VICTIM CLOSET TO THE DANGER OR BEING OVERTAKEN BY THE CICUMSTANCE. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 11 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 FIRE PERSONNEL: WHEN ORDERED TO SEARCH THEY WILL UNDERGO THE SAME THREATENING CIRCUMSTANCES THAT THE VICTIM IS IN. THE AREA OF COMMTTMENT: WHEN THE ORDER IS GIVEN TO CONDUCT A SEARCH IT MUST BE CLEAR AS TO WHAT AREA IS TO BE OPERATE IN. THIS AREA SHOULD BE VERY SPECIFIC BECAUSE IF NOT TWO THINGS CAN HAPPEN. 1. THERE CAN BE A DUPLICATION OF EFFORT IN THE SAME AREA AND OTHER AREAS NOT SEARCHED AT ALL. 2. IF THERE IS A FLASHOVER OR COLLAPSE REQUIRING A SEARCH FOR THE FIREFIGHTERS THE AREA CAN BE REASONABLY NARROWED TO THERE ASSIGN AREA. SAFTY AND PROTECTIVE STEPS: A FIRE FIGHTER MUST TAKE ADVANTAGE OF EVERY SAFTY POSSIBILITY AVAILABLE. SCBA AND FULL TURNOUT GEAR ARE THE FIREST STEP. TEAMS OF AT LEAST TWO FIRE FIGHTERS SHOULD BE USED AND LAST ENTRANCE AND POSSIBLE EGREE ROUTS SHOULD BE ESTABLISED. LIMITS OF THE MISSION: THERE MUST BE A CLEAR UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT IS TO BE ACCOMPLISED AND WHEN TO STOP THE OPERATION. WHEN THE LIMITS HAVE BEEN REACHED, THE TEAM LEADER MUST REPORT TO THE IC. IF THIS IS NOT DONE CONTROL WILL BE LOST ANS SEARCH & RESCUE PROCEDURES WILL BECOME UNCOORDINATED AND INEFFECTIVE. INVOLVED SECTIONS THREATENING POTENTIAL VICTIMS: NOT ONLY WILL THE DEGREE OF INVOLVMENT UPON ARRIVAL HAVE AN EFFECT ON YOUR SEARCH STRATEGY, THE DEGREE OF ADDITINAL INVOLVMENT PRIOR TO CONTROL MUST BE CONSIDERED. IF THIS IS NOT DONE THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT FIREFIGHTERS COULD EASILY BECOME THE VICTIM. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 12 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 SITUATION BEYOND YOUR CAPABILITIES TO CONTROL AND EFFECT RESCUE: THERE WILL ALWAYS BE TIMES THAT; DUE TO THE EXTENT OF THE SITUATION YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO CONTROL THE SITUATION WITHOUT ADDITIONAL RESOURCES. ONSET OF DARKNESS: THIS WILL ALWAYS COMPLICATE A FIRE GROUND OR RESCUE OPERATION. IF YOU ARE OPERATING AND DARKNESS IS NEAR, MAKE PLANS TO CHANGE YOUR OPERATION TO MEET THE CHANGING CONDITIONS. SEARCH & RESCUE TACTICS SEARCH & RESCUE OBJECTIVES 1. LOCATE THE VICTIM. 2. PROTECT THE VICTIM. 3. ISOLATE THE VITCIM 4. REMOVE THE VICTIM. THE ACHIEVMENT OF THESE OBJECTIVES CAN ONLY BE ACCOMPLISHED BY THE PROPER APPLICATION OF SEARCH & RESCUE TACTICS. THE ACTUAL SEARCH IS DIVIDED INTO TWO SEPARATE OPERATIONS. PRIMARY SEARCH & SECONDARY SEARCH 1. PRIMARY SEARCH: 2. BEGIN IMMEDIATLY UPON ARRIVAL. 3. CONDUCTED RAPIDLY 4. MUST BE SYSTEMATIC 5. MUST BE THOROUGH UPON THE ARRIVAL OF THE FIRST ENGINE COMPANY ATTACK LINES ARE STRECHED AND THE PRIMARY SEARCH IS BEGUN. WITH THE ARIVAL OF THE REMAINING UNITS ON THE FORST ALARM ASSIRNIMENT THE PRIMARY SEARCH IS EXPANDED. TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE AND BECAUSE OF THIS PROTECTIVE LINES MAY NOT BE STRECHED. ALL PERSONNEL SHOULD BE THINKING OF ALTERNATE MEANS OF ENTRY IN CASE THEIR PRIMARY ENTRY POINT IS UNPASSABLE. ALTERNATE EGRESS FROM THE BUILDING SHOULD ALSO BE CONSIDERED AT THIS POINT. THE PRIMAR SEARCH MUST BE RAPID. IT IS ALWAYS A CALCULATED RISK BECAUSE THE SITUATION IS GETTING WORSE AT THIS POINT. CONTROL EFFORTS WILL EITHER NOT HAVE STARTED OR NOT HAVE HAD TIME TO CONTROL THE SITUATION. THE DANGER TO THE SEARCH TEAM WILL BE VERY GREAT. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 13 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 FOLLOW A SYSTEM: IF EACH FIREFIGHTER ENGAGED IN THE SEARCH FOLLOWS THE SAME PROCEDURES DURING THE OPERATION IT BECOMES RELATIVELY EASY TO DETERMINE WHAT HAS BEEN DONE, WHAT ADDITIONAL WORK MUST BE DONE AND WHAT THE RESULTS HAVE BEEN. IT MUST BE THOROUGH: A PRIMARY SEARCH MUST BE THOROUGH IN THE AREAS WHERE IT IS POSSIBLE TO CONDUCT IT. ONLY A THOROUGH SEARCH WILL ENSURE THE VICTIMS ARE DISCOVERED. A SEARCH THAT IS DONE POORLY AND ONLY CHECKS CERTIAN POINTS WILL OFTEN RESULT IN A FAILURE. SIMULTANEUS OPERATIONS: DURING A PRIMARY SEARCH MANY OTHER ACTIVITIES MUST BE ON GOING SIMULTANEUSLY WITH THE SEARCH. DECISIONS MUST BE MADE RATIONALY; CORRECT DECISIONS CANNOT BE MADE UNLESS THERE IS GOOD COMMUNICATION. FEEDBACK IS A MUST: ANYTHING THAT WILL AFFECT THE COURSE OF THE OPERATION SHOULD BE REPORTED. FIRE CONDITIONS REPORT PROGRESS OF THE SEARCH IF VICTIM LOCATED WHEN SEARCH TEAM OUT OR COMPLETED. LOCATION OF THE FIRE FIRE EXTENSIONS IF HELP IS NEEDED. SECONDARY SEARCH: `THIS SHOULD BEGIN AFTER THE FIRE IS CONTROLLED OR AS CONTROL IS ACCOMPLISHED. THE SECONDARY SEARCH SHOULD BE: a. CONDUCTED SLOWLY b. CONDUCTED SYSTEMATICALLY c. CONDUCTED THOROGHLY BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 14 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 THE SECONDARY SEARCH MAY OCCUR AFTER THE FIRE IS CONTROLLED OR AS CONTROL IS BEING ACCOMPLISHED. IT MUST BE CONDUCTED SLOWLY. THERE IS LESS DANGER FROM FIRE AND SMOKE BUT MORE FROM COLLAPSE. ITMUST BE SYSTEMATIC. SECTOR OFF EACH AREA AND ASSIGN A TEAM TO SEARCH IT. THIS WILL ENSURE THAT THERE IS NO DUPLICATION OF EFFORTS. IT MUST BE THOROUGH. OVERLOOK NOTHING AND TAKE NOTHING FOR GRANTED. THE MAJOR OBJECTIVE IS TO ENSURE THAT YOU HAVE EITHER LOCATED VICTIMS OR THERE ARE NO VICTIMS. ASSIGN DIFFERENT SEARCH TEAMS; IF SUFFFICIENT MANPOWER IS AVAILABLE CHANGE THE ENTIRE TEAM FROM THE ONE THAT CONDUCTED THE PRIMARY SEARCH. IF SUFFICIENT MANPOWER IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR THIS THEN ASSIGN EACH TEAM TO AN AREA THAT IS DIFFERENT FROM THIER FROM THIER ORIGINAL ASSIGNMENTS. THIS WILL REDUCE THE POSSIBILITY OF A STEREOTYPED SEARCH AND WILL PROBABLY RESULT IN A DIFFERENT APPROACH BYTHE NEW TEAM. THE MAIN OBJECTIVE OF THE SECONDARY SEARCH IS TO LOCATE VICTIMS NOT FOUND DURING THE PRIMARY SEARCH. A THOROUGH SECONDARY SEARCH WILL ALSO GIVE YOU BENEFITS THAT ARE NOT PART OF THE MAIN OBJECTIVE. 1. LOCATION OF FIRE EXTENTION. 2. LOCATION OF SERIOUS HAZARDS TO YOUR OPERATION. 3. ALLOW YOU TO INCREASE EFFECTIVE VENTILATION. 4. VARIOUS SALVAGE AND OVERHAUL PROCEDURES CAN BECOME PART OF THE SECONDARY SEARCH. THE SEARCH TEAM CONCEPT IS A VALID ONE WHEN IT CAN BE USED. TWO OR MORE FIREFIGHTERS OPERATING AS A SEARCH TEAM WILL GAIN CERTAIN ADVANTAGES OVER A FIREFIGHTER WORKING ALONG. SOME ADVANTAGES: 1. THE DANGER IS SHARED. A SITUATION THAT IS ENDURED BY MORE THAN ONE PERSON IS A SITUATION THAT IS MORE EASILY HANDLED. 2. THE FIREFIGHTERS HAVE EACHOTHER FOR HELP. IF A FIREFIGHTER HAS TROUBLE OR EQUIPMENT PROBLEM DURING A SEARCH OPERATION, THE TEAM MEMBER CAN ASSIST THEM. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 15 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 3. DETAILS ARE NOT AS APT. TO BE OVERLOOKED. TWO OR THREE SETS OF EYES AND EARS ARE LESS APT. TO MISS THINGS THAN JUST ONE. 4. A TEAM CAN COVER AND AREA MORE QUICKLY. 5. IMMEDIATE COMMUNICATIONS BETWEEN THE MEMBERS OF THE TEAM CAN RESULT IN LESS CHANCE TAKING. SEARCH HINTS 1. PROBE WITH LEG OR TOOLS TO DETERMINE IF ANYONE IS LYING CLOSE TO DOORS OR WINDOWS. 2. IF FIRE IS DICOVERED ON THE FLOOR ABOVE THE FIRE FLOOR, A CHARGED LINE SHOULD BE CALLED FOR. 3. OFTEN CLOSING A DOOR MAY TEMPORARILY CONTAIN A FIRE, ALLOWING SEARCH TO CONTINUE. 4. PULL MATTRESS OFF BED TO INDICAT ROOM HAS BEEN SEARCHED. 5. ALWAYS BE ALERT FOR SIGNS OF TRAPPED VICTIMS, SUCH AS CRYING OR COUGHING. 6. CHECK ALL CLOSETS THOROUGHLY, CHECK ALL FOUR CORNERS. 7. LOOK UNDER BEDS & BEHIND FURNITURE. TO LOCATE VICTIM UNDER BEDS INSERT YOUR LEG AND GENTLY SWEEP BACK AND FOURTH. 8. VENTILATE AS YOU MOVE, PROVIDING FIRE WILL NOT EXTEND BY YOUR VENTING. 9. IF HEAT OR SMOKE PREVENTS ENTRANCE INTO AN AREA, PROBE GENTLY WITH ARMS, LEGS OR TOOL TO DETERMINE IF ANY VICTIMS ARE LYING CLOSE TO DOOR. DOESN’T WANDER AIMLESSLY PLAN YOUR SEARCH? EXTERIOR SEARCH: THIS IS OFTEN OVERLOOKED. WHENEVER IT IS APPARENT THAT VICTIMS MAY BE INVOLVED IN AN INCIDENT THE OUTSIDE SEARCH SHOULD BE CONDUCTED. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 16 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 INTERIOR SEARCH: THE FIRE FLOOR AND THE FLOOR IMMEDIATLY ABOVE THE FIRE ARE THE MOST CRITICAL. CHECK THESE FLOORS FIRST AND POSITION LINES TO PROTECT THE SEARCH TEAMS ESCAPE ROUTE. SEARCH OPERATIONS: FOLLOW A PATTERN. START THE SEARCH AT THE DOOR; BLOCK IT OPEN WHILE YOU ARE IN THE ROOM, KEEP IN CONTACT WITH THE WALLS WHILE SWEEPING THE FLOOR AREA. PROBE UNDER AND BEHIND ALL FURNITURE, CHECK THE TOPS OF ALL FURNITURE ESPECIALLY BEDS AND CHAIRS, THOROUGHLY CHECK ALL CLOSETS AND BATHROOMS INCLUDING THE INTERIOR OF TUBES AND SHOWER STALLS. ONE FIRE FIGHTER GOES RIGHT THE OTHER LEFT. WHEN YOU MEET PASS EACH OTHER AND CONTINUE UNTIL YOU REACH YOU POINT OF ENTRY. EACH TEAM SHOULD BE IN CONTACT WITH EACHOTHER BY SIGHT, SOUND OR TOUCH. LISTEN: PAUSE TO HEAR COUGHING, GASPING, CRYING AND ANY MOVEMENT USE ALL SENSES: SEEING, HEARING AND TOUCHING. COMMUNICATE: TALK TO OTHER TEAM MEMBERS. SECONDARY DUTIES DURING A SEARCH: ALTHOUGH THE FOLLOWING ARE LISTED AS SECCONDARY DUTIES, YOU SHOULD REMEMBER TO CARRY THEM OUT WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF THE OVERALL OPERATION. VENTILATION CHECK FOR EXTENTION ISOLATE AREAS - CLOSE DOORS WHEN LEAVING AREA. PREPARE INTERIOR ENTRY POINTS FOR ATTACK LINE CREWS ISOLATE HAZARDS WHERE POSSIBLE. WHEN VICTIM LOCATED: 1. PROTECT THE VICTIM AT THE POINT WHERE LOCATED- THIS IS ONE OF THE DIFFICULT SITUATIONS THAT YOU COULD BE FACED WITH. A. THE SIZE OF THE VICTIM PRECLUDES YOUR REMOVING HIM, EITHER ALONE OR WITH ANOTHER TEAM. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 17 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 C. THE PHYSICAL CONDITION OF THE PERSON IS SUCH THAT SKILLED HELP MAY BE REQUIRED TO PREPARE HIM FOR THE MOVE. C.THE NUMBER OF VICTIMS REQUIRING EVACUATION IS CONSIDERABLY GREATER THAN YOUR RESOURCE CAN HANDLE. 1. ISOLATE VICTIM- IF YOU DECIDE THAT ISOLATION IS NECESSARY. A. WILL THE ISOLATION BE FOR A SHORT TIME OR FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD, (10 MINUTES OR MORE)? B. WILL THE ISOLATION AREA REMAIN SAFE FOR MORE THAN THE PERIOD OF TIME THAT YOU CAN REASONABLY EXPECT? D. DOES THE ISOLATION AREA HAVE SUFFICIENT MEANS OF EGRESS IN THE EVENT YOUR CALCULATIONS ARE INCORRECT? E. IS THERE SUFFICIENT ROOM IN THE ISOLATION AREA FOR THE NUMBER OF VICTIMS THAT YOU HAVE? 3. REMOVE VICTIM – IF THE DECISION IS MADE TO REMOVE THE VICTIM OTHER DECISIONS MUST BE MADE. A. SHOULD THE VICTIM BE COMPLETLEY REMOVED FROM THE STRUCTURE? B. SHOULD THE VICTIM BE MOVED HORIZONTALLY TO A SAFE AREA? C. ARE THE STAIRS USABLE OR WILLS REMOVAL HAVE TO BE ACCOMPLISHED OVER LADDERS? F. CAN THE VICTIM ASSIST YOU OR IS THE VICTIM COMPLETELY UNCONSCIOUS REQUIRING THAT YOU PERFORM THE REMOVEL EITHER ALONE OR WITH HELP FROM ANOTHER TEAM. VARIOUS STUDIES HAVE SHOWN THAT THE VAST MAJORITY OF INJURIES AND/OR COLLAPSES DURNING SEARCH AND RESCUE OPERATIONS INVOLVE RESPIRATORY INJURY. THE TWO PRIME CAUSES OF RESPIRATORY INJURY ARE SMOKE AND HEAT. SMOKE: REFERENCE TO LESSON #12, THE SECTION REGARDING THE CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF SMOKE, WILL GRAPHICALLY POINT OUT THE HAZARDS THAT ARE ALWAYS PRESENT IN SMOKE AND WILL NOT BE RELISTED HERE. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 18 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 HEAT: IS THE OTHER MOST SERIOUS THREAT TO THE RESCUER. HEAT CAUSED INJURIES CAN EASILY BE RECOGNIZED. THERE ARE OTHER INTERMEDIATE STEPS INVOLVED IN HEAT INJURIES BUT THEY STILL LEAD TO THE SAME RESULTS. THESE ARE BROUGHT ABOUT BY CHEMICAL CHANGES IN THE BODY AS IT IS SUBJECTED TO HEAT. PROTECTION AVAILABLE FOR THE RESCUER: THREE MAJOR STEPS BY FIREFIGHTERS THAT WILL ASSIST THEM IN CARRYING OUT RESCUE MISSIONS AND ALL FIREFIGHTING OPERATIONS ARE: 1. A WELL CONDITIONED FIREFIGHTER 2. FULL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING 3. SELF CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS (SCBA) A WELL CONDITIONED FIREFIGHTER: IS LESS PRONE TO INJURY. INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES VARY GREATLY VUT BASICALLY A FIREFIGHTER SHOULD TRY TO MAINTAIN HIS PHYSICAL CONDITIONING AT THE MAXIUM POSSIBLE LEVEL, TAKING INTO CONSIDERATION HIS AGE AND HEALTH. FULL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING: PROPERLY WORN AND MAINTAINED IS AN INJURY PREVENTION STEP THAT CAN EASILY BE TAKEN BY EVERY FIREFIGHTER IN THE DEPARTMENT. THE WEARING OF ALL OF THE PARTS OF PROTECTIVE CLOTHING (HELMET, COAT, GLOVES ETC.) IS ONLY THE FIRST STEP TO BE TAKEN IN THIS AREA. THE ITEMS MUST BE PROPERLTY WORN. AN OPEN TURNOUT COAT PROVIDES NO PROTECTION TO THE FRONT OF THE BODY. EACH ITEM MUST BE WELL MAINTAINED IN ORDER TO BE EFFECTIVE. GLOVES THAT ARE TORN, COATS THAT HAVE LARGE CUTS IN THEM AND BOOTS THAT LEAK WILL NOT PROVIDE THE PROTECTION THAT THEY WERE DESIGNED TO GIVE. SELF CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS (SCBA): PROPERLY WORN AND MAINTAINED. THE ENTIRE CONCEPT OF PROPERLY WORN SCBA IS BASED ON REGULAR TRAINING WITH THE SCBA. AN SCBA WITH PARTIALLY OPEN VALVES, IMPROPER FACE SEAL OR OTHER WEARING DEFICIENCIES CANNOT BE EXPECTED TO PERFORM PROPERLY AND GIVE YOU MAXIMUM PROTECTION. AN SCBA WITH AN ALMOST EMPTY CYLINDER OR BAD FACE PIECE STRAPS IS NOT BEING PROPERLY MAINTAINED AND CAN BE THE CAUSE OF SERIOUS INJURY. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 19 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 3. The firefighter, engaged in a search and rescue mission, is subjected to all of the dangers that are affecting the victim. He must accept these dangers but it is also his responsibility to protect himself as much as possible given the circumstances. Burns, scalds, falls and a great many other hazards for injury will be present. If he is not constantly on guard he will incur one of these injuries and possibly require rescue himself due to them. 4. Becoming trapped during a search and rescue mission is a distinct possibility. This situation can come about from numerous causes. Flashover can cut off his escape route. His equipment may become entangled on material in the area where he is searching. Very heavy furniture or equipment may fall on him and prevent him from escaping the area. A partial building or room collapse can occur that will result in the rescuer becoming trapped and additional resources being committed to rescue him. He must remain aware of surroundings as much as possible and has the extremely difficult task of being aggressive yet cautious at the same time. 5. Disorientation is a factor that must be considered. Visibility may be severely reduced, most times the surroundings will be totally unfamiliar to you and in some cases you will be required to operate in large undistinguishable areas. You must, at all times, take steps to know where you are, where you are going and more importantly, where you have been. When this is taken into consideration with the stress factors under which you are operating disorientation can easily lead to you becoming a victim rather than a rescuer. 6. Physical collapse will definitely result in the rescuer becoming another victim. Whether this collapse is brought about by smoke inhalation due to no wearing SCBA, or any other reason, the end result is the same. You must take the steps to prevent this. Although only four possible reasons for a Firefighter becoming a victim have been stated, it must be understood that the tactical circumstances can be such that many others are present. These hazards can be present singly or in almost any conceivable combination and number. SECTION III – THE RESCUE ENVIRONMENT The objective of this section is that a Firefighter, having studied the material, will be able to give from memory and then properly apply on the fire ground, the material in the lesson so that safe, effective searches may be conducted. Even suppression efforts have a direct effect on the search and rescue portion of the operation. These can be favorable. Ventilation can increase visibility and reduce backdraft possibilities. Application of water can reduce heat and the possibility of flashover. However, as in all fire ground operations, other factors must be weighed prior to carrying out an action. The ventilation that increases visibility may also cause flame production to increase to the point that the Search and Rescue portion of the operation becomes impossible to carry out due to the increase of heat. The application of water may result in the production of steam that will drop visibility to zero. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 20 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 Constant threats to both firefighter and victim are presented by the possibility of either backdraft or flashover. The structural stability of rescue areas presents a constant threat to the firefighter and victim. The firefighter must be constantly on the alert to possible problems in this area. The construction features of a building will have a direct bearing on its reaction to the forces of fire. Fire resistive construction will give few problems in the area of quick collapse but will subject the rescuer to conditions that are somewhat like attempting to work inside of a furnace. Steel or light weight pre-fab wooden trusses may lead to early self-ventilation but the dangers of a firefighter becoming a victim of a collapse and requiring a rescue are severe. Frame buildings generally maintain stability for a reasonable amount of time but the dangers of flashover and fire advance in concealed spaces is severe. Flashover and/or fire in concealed areas can quickly result in the rescuer being over-run or cut-off by fire and thus becoming a victim who also requires rescue. Even the operation of a large number of sprinkler heads can cause problems. This can come about when sufficient heads have opened and entering the spray area could result in serious disorientation. If the fire has been of sufficient severity to cause many heads to open, the volume of heat present will be such that vast amounts of steam will be generated causing visibility loss and disorientation. Automatic extinguishing systems utilizing Halons or CO2 will build up concentrations that are well within lethal concentrations of these substances. In as much as the fire environment is never static, it is always changing, your analysis of it must be continuing throughout the operation. SECTION IV – STRATEGY – THE PRE PLAN The objective of this section is that the Firefighter, having reviewed the material will be able to properly apply the elements of a Rescue Pre-Plan, establish valid Search & Rescue Strategic Objectives and properly use the Tactical procedures that will result in a successful Search & Rescue. Strategy – The Pre-Plan The search and Rescue Pre-Plan is very similar to an overall Fire Pre-Plan in that it should: 1. Consider all the hazards of the occupancy that may make a Search and Rescue Operation necessary. 2. Consider all the resources available to you to meet these hazards. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 21 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 THE HAZARDS o The Occupancy o The Configuration of the Occupancy o The Type of Construction o Varied uses of a building o The Hours of Occupancy o Who are the Occupants? o Any special or Extraordinary Hazards THE OCCUPANCY – is stated generally as …what is the ordinary use of the structure by those who normally will be in the structure and could become victims requiring you to conduct a Search & Rescue operation. THE CONFIGURATION OF THE OCCUPANCY – This refers to how the building interior is subdivided into rooms, corridors, shafts and various other interior division features. THE TYPE OF CONSTRUCTION – is what are the various materials utilized in the structure and how they are held together to form the various parts of the structure. Basically, we can treat this problem as: 1. Frame Construction, Balloon or Platform, built completely of wood. 2. Ordinary, the exterior walls are masonry or brick and the interior is completely or mostly wood. 3. Fire Resistive, both the interior and exterior of the structure are of concrete, masonry or brick and non-combustible material used as a part of the load bearing structure. 4. Non-combustible, where all exterior walls and interior supports are made of unprotected metal. There are various other subdivisions and several minor classes of construction but these four will be sufficient for our purposes. VARIED USES OF A BUILDING – some buildings are dedicated to one type of use such as dwellings and single occupancy manufacturing or mercantile occupancy. Other buildings have more than one use. An example of this would be a building with a mercantile occupancy on the first floor with apartments on the floors above. THE HOURS OF OCCUPANCY – The normal use of a building will give you the primary indication of occupancy. A mercantile occupancy would most probably have the most people in it during the normal business hours but this will not mean that it would always be free of potential victims during the non-business hours. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 22 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 WHO ARE THE OCCUPANTS : Very young, very old, bed ridden, highly mobile and alert….each of these groups and many more will change the circumstances of the operation. SPECIAL OR EXTRAORDINARY HAZARDS : These can be classified as any hazard that is over and above the regular hazards to be found in every Search and Rescue Operation. Examples would be a large amount of flammable liquids in a manufacturing occupancy or large amounts of herbicides and pesticides in a mercantile occupancy. The knowledge that you acquire during regular inspections will prove to be of great assistance to you in developing Strategic Search and Rescue objectives. Certain buildings in your district will fall into predictable patterns. DWELLINGS: If the outline of the building is the same as the others in the block and the entrance locations are the same, generally speaking the floor configurations will be the same. The room use may vary from one to another but the interior configurations will remain fairly constant. LARGE APARTMENT BUILDINGS : Of similar design in a complex will be somewhat constant one to another. One caution though, there may be one, two and three bedroom apartments with considerably different characteristics from apartment to apartment. COMMERCIAL, MERCANTILE AND MANUFACTURING: Have few similarities from one to another, even of the same general type of structure or occupancy. These must be pre-planned separately. The facts, probabilities and your own situation will lead to your decisions and positive actions. THE FACTS: Time Weather Occupancy Logistical BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 23 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 THE PROBABILITIES: Life hazard Extension of fire Atmospheric changes YOUR OWN SITUATION: Personnel and equipment Additional help required Action taken before your arrival THE FACTS TIME: the day of the week, certainly the hour of the day and the season must be taken into consideration and weighed against the occupancy. This will begin to give you a reasonable indication of the possible requirements for a Search and Rescue Operation. WEATHER: heat, cold, precipitation, humidity, fog and snow all should have a bearing on the decisions and actions you make. OCCUPANCY: residential, single family, multi-family including multi-dwelling, garden and high rise apartments Each of the sub-divisions in the residential occupancy category present unique problems that must be considered in your Search and Rescue Size Up because each different type will cause you to change various parts of the Search and Rescue operation. EDUCATIONAL – Schools (Elementary, High School and College Daycare or Nursery Handicapped As can easily be seen, two of these groups present high risk groups, the day care or nursery and handicapped. The number of personnel required for rescue could be very high. Elementary students may or may not be in this group. The high school or college student would be much more apt to be able to assist him or herself in leaving the danger area than the others listed. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 24 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 PUBLIC ASSEMBLY – Restaurant Arena Clubs Any of these three occupancies will present the hazards of large crowds, unfamiliarity with the premises or exits and they may or may not have concealed spaces or illegal flammable contents. The Restaurants and Clubs may have problems of tipped tables and chairs blocking paths near the exits. The arena may or may not have moveable seats. If they have fixed seats, those toward the center of the rows could easily have many problems getting out by themselves. God complete knowledge of the district is the only hope that you have of properly sizing up the magnitude of your Search and Rescue problems. HOSPITAL – Emergency Convalescent Both of these occupancies can be considered to have high risk groups within them. It will be almost impossible for you to know how many of these people there are at any given time. It is important then to pre-plan to include establishing a permanent liaison system with the facility. This will allow you to easily obtain this information upon your arrival. This information will not necessarily make the operation any easier but will not waste time and effort and possibly resources being use in the wrong area. LOGISTICAL STREET ACCESS - Can the street accommodate the proper apparatus in the proper locations or will special instructions be required in order that the operation goes as smoothly and quickly as possible. TERRAIN – Is there anything on the fire ground that will affect laddering, line placement or evacuation. ALLEYS – Are they sufficiently wide to accommodate raised ladders or to bring victims on stretchers through them. OTHER BUILDINGS – Is there anything about them that could help or hinder you during the operation. Are they positioned so that they are threatened in a manner that will expand your Search and Rescue problems? BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 25 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 NATURE OF CALL FIRE – a reported fire in a dwelling should get your mind working along the lines of what types of dwellings are located in the area to which you are responding. Fire in a commercial, mercantile or place of public assembly should trigger certain preparations in your mind regarding the specific location to which you are responding. You ca only do these things if you have done your pre-planning and have a deep knowledge of your district. SMOKE – a response to an alarm reporting smoke should not automatically be presumed minor. If, upon your arrival, you have not only smoke but also a search and rescue problem and you have not reviewed certain strategic steps while you were responding, you will have to do this upon arrival thus loosing time in putting proper tactics into operation. Even seconds can be critical at this time and in addition, you increase the possibilities of mistakes by having to make the proper strategic decisions under the additional stress present on arrival. EXPLOSION – the response to a report of an explosion should immediately begin a train of thought that includes additional help including more heavy rescue possible, collapse or wide spread fire which will greatly affect your rescue tactics. By reviewing points such as this during your response you will be better prepared to take immediate and proper action on arrival. THE PROBABILITIES – the probabilities of a situation can best be considered as those things which a reasonable, competent firefighter should consider both during the response, upon arrival and throughout the entire operation. LIFE HAZARD OCCUPANTS – the occupants of any structure will require varying degrees of assistance from firefighters. This can range from being located by the firefighter, physically removed by the firefighter and given first aid by the firefighter down to just pointing out which stairway or hall the occupant should use to leave the threatened area. By subdividing the occupants into categories, more logical decisions may be made. 1. THE MOST SEVERLY THREATENED – which of the potential victims is in the most danger from the situation and the closest to being overtaken by the circumstances? Who this is may not always be readily apparent. An occupant may be three floors below and ten rooms over from the fire location but because this occupant is hanging out a window and screaming does not necessarily mean that the occupant is the most severely threatened. There may be many people actually trapped in the immediate area of the fire who cannot even get near a window. If the unthreatened person is considering jumping, circumstances change again. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 26 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 2. GROUPS – if you can remove many threatened people from an endangered area with a minimum commitment of resources, you have the opportunity of accomplishing a great deal and you may still have sufficient resources to search for individuals. 3. LESS THREATENED – commit only the most necessary amounts of resources to removing these occupants. Your prime concern must be the most seriously threatened. By committing some resources to removal of the less threatened, you are accomplishing two things, first, you have retained sufficient resources to accomplish other missions and secondly, you have removed a potential serious problem in the event that the situation deteriorates. 4. IN EXPOSED BUILDINGS – this again presents you with problems in the sense that the exposures may present a more severe life hazard than the building/s or origin. An example of this would be a vacant factory building heavily involved with the fire impinging on adjacent dwellings or apartment buildings. FIRE PERSONNEL – when a firefighter is ordered on a Search and Rescue mission, he must undergo the same threatening circumstances that the victim is in. 1. THE AREA OF COMMITTMENTY – when a firefighter is ordered to perform a Search and Rescue operation there must be a clear understanding of what area he is to operate in. This area should be very specific because if it is not, two things can happen. First, there can easily be a duplication of effort and the same area searched by many people and other areas not searched at all and secondly, if there is a rapid change in circumstances such as a flash-over or collapse requiring a search for the firefighter, the search area can be reasonably narrowed to his assigned area rather than the entire structure. 2. SAFETY AND PROTECTIVE STEPS – the firefighter must take advantage of every safety possibility available. SCBA and full turnouts are the first step. When possible, teams of at least two firefighters should be used. Entrance and possible egress routes should be established. 3. LIMITS OF THE MISSION – there must be a clear understanding of what is to be accomplished and when to stop the operation. When the limits have been reached, the firefighter MUST report the results to the Officer who assigned him to the mission. If this is not done, control will be lost and search and rescue procedures will become uncoordinated and probably ineffective. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 27 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 SPECTATORS – anytime you operate on the rescue or fire ground, spectators will be present and through their own unknowing or unthinking actions may become victims requiring your assistance. 1. LOCATION – they should be held back as far as possible from the scene. Wall collapse, explosions and being struck by equipment and even apparatus are just a few of the things that can occur to spectators if they are allowed to crowd in on the operation. This does not even consider some of the slowing down of our operations caused by spectators. If necessary, obtain additional Police help if you feel it is required. 2. OVERALL HAZARDS OF THE OPERATION – there have been instances of spectators being injured by toxic fumes or burns even though they were hundreds of feet from the incident. Do not hesitate to have spectators removed. EXTENTION OF FIRE The extension of the fire even after your arrival must always be considered and planned for. If this is not done, rescuers can easily become victims. In addition, as the fire volume increases or a situation becomes worse, your chances of successfully completing a rescue becomes much slimmer. Two considerations must be made constantly. INVOLVED SECTIONS THREATENING POTENTIAL VICTIMS – NOT ONLY WILL THE DEGREE OF INVOLVEMENT UPON YOUR ARRIVAL HAVE AN EFFECT ON YOUR Search and Rescue strategy, the degree of additional involvement prior to control must be considered. If this is not done there is a distinct possibility that Firefighters could easily become victims during their search operation or civilians who do not appear to be in danger originally become victims due to the rapid advance and spread of the fire. These considerations should be continuous, not only as part of the Rescue Size Up, but as a part of the ongoing fire ground Size Up during the entire operation. SITUATION BEYOND YOUR CAPABILITIES TO CONTROL AND EFFECT RESCUE – there will always be times that, due to the extent of the situation, you will not be able to control and situation without additional resources. If you have four floors of a commercial occupancy to search and a hundred or more people that are in varying degrees of difficulty a still alarm assignment will not be able to carry out all of the operations successfully. This is readily apparent. The border line case is more difficult. The standard that should be used in solving this problem is…. If you even think you need help, you probably need it desperately. Get it moving toward the scene quickly. An area where this occurs, yet not in the context of a fire, is victim extrication from an accident. It does the victim no good for and Engine Company to continue to try to get him from a demolished vehicle using a crow bar when some companies carry specialized tools for this purpose, including the Heavy Rescue Companies. Even an additional Truck Company should be considered for extra hand tools and/or manpower. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 28 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 ATMOSPHERE CHANGES – this will be considered in only two areas, the first of which, while not a true atmospheric change, can have a drastic effect on you operation and second, only in its most general terms. ON SET OF DARKNEESS – this will always complicate a fire ground or rescue operation. Many additional factors must be considered when it occurs while you are operating. If you are operating and darkness is near, make plans to change your operation to meet the changing conditions. GENERAL CHANGE OF WEATHER – a change in weather conditions can cause serious problems during a search and rescue operation. A rapid increase in humidity can result in a decrease in visibility due to smoke just hanging rather than moving normally. A rapid increase in the wind can result in fire extension. These possibilities must be considered on an overall basis and also on an individual case basis as you are operating. YOUR OWN SITUATION PERSONNEL AND EQUIPMENT ON THE SCENE – are your resources sufficient to carry out the operation? Attempting to carry out a Search and Rescue operation without having the proper resources can easily result in the failure of the operation. Certain steps must be started immediately but you must always take steps to assure that you have sufficient personnel and equipment on hand to rapidly and efficiently carry out the operation. Ladders on an apparatus that is in quarters or personnel assigned to a company that has not been dispatched cannot do you any good. You must take necessary steps to get what you need to your location. PERSONNEL ANEQUIPMENT IN RESERVE – if the operation begins to present considerably more problems than you originally anticipated, do you have any resources, manpower or equipment immediately available or will you have to call for this help? You cannot have unlimited reserves of course, but a good understanding of the situation and its probable course will allow you to make a reasonable assessment of your requirements. AVAILABILITY OF ASSISTANCE – you should have a good understanding of how long it will take to get any assistance that you need. This assistance can be additional Department resources or resources from outside the Department such as Medical, Police, or heavy equipment. Always keep in mind that the greater the amount of assistance called for the longer the time required to arrive on location will be. ACTIONS TAKEN BEFOR YOUR ARRIVAL – the occupants or victims may have gotten into a corridor but left a room door open allowing the smoke and fire to spread rapidly thus complicating the situation. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 29 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 DECISIONS INITIAL – (instant commitment of forces) – first arriving unit must consider beginning the Search and Rescue operation immediately. However, if this is an Engine Company, the Officer should weigh carefully but quickly, whether or not the stretching of a line for protection and having the first due Truck Company carry out the operation would result in a better chance of success. Many variables will come into this decision. The extent of the fire and smoke, the approximate time that will be lost waiting for the first due Truck Company and so forth. SUPPLEMENTAL DECISIONS – these must be based on the operation itself. They must be based on Feedback and Results. FEEDBACK – PEOPLE, PARTICULARLY THE Officer in command of the overall operation, must be informed of exactly what you are doing. RESULTS – if some good is being accomplished by the operation by using feedback, tactics that are successful can be continued and ones that are not satisfactory can be changed. PLAN OF OPERATION ORDERS AND INSTRUCTIONS – these must be positive and capable of being carried out. SUPERVISION –the officer in command of the operation must know where each of his companies is operating. The company Officer must know where each of his firefighters is operating. If this is not done, loss of control will occur. This can easily lead to: 1. Duplication of effort using up scarce resources. 2. Failure to search all areas. 3. Firefighters being lost without anyone being aware of where they are. 4. Overall failure of the mission. FEEDBACK – is nothing more than getting facts to a person who otherwise would not be aware of them. It is based on information received from others – Firefighters or Officers. It must flow both ways. Good feedback also comes from another source, your own knowledge and experience is sometimes called “Gut Feeling”. It has served us all well on many occasions and should always be a consideration while you are operating at any location whether Search and Rescue is involved or not. IT MUST BE UNDERSTOOD THAT ALL OF THESE POINTS MUST BE MADE IN YOUR MIND WITHIN SECONDS, CERTAINLY WITHIN A MINUTE OR SO UNDER EMERGENCY CONDITIONS. THEREFORE, YOU MUST KNOW THEM, AND APPLY THEM REGARDLESS OF THE CIRCUMSTANCES OR SURROUNDINGS. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 30 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 SECTION V – SEARCH AND RESCUE TACTICS The objective of this section is that the Firefighter, having either made certain strategic decisions or being ordered to take steps to implement strategic decisions, will be able to properly carry out the various tactics involved in a Search and Rescue operation. SEARCH and RESCUE OBJECTIVES; 1. Locate the victim 2. Protect the victim 3. Remove the victim The achievement of these objective can only be accomplished by the proper application of Search and Rescue Tactics. The Search is divided into two separate operations: 1. THE PRIMARY SEARCH 2. THE SECONDARY SEARCH PRIMARY SEARCH – Is begun immediately upon arrival Is conducted rapidly It must be systematic It must be thorough Within the limits placed upon Engine Companies regarding the stretching of lines under some conditions, the Primary Search is begun and expanded as required with the first arriving units on the first alarm assignment. Time is of the essence and because of this, protective lines may not be stretched. All personnel should be thinking of alternate means of entry in case their primary entry point is impassable. Alternate egress from the building should also, be considered at this point. The primary Search must be rapid. It is always a calculated risk because the situation is getting worse at this point. Control efforts will either not have started or not have had time to control the situation. The danger to the Search team will be very great FOLLOW A SYSTEM – if each Officer and Firefighter engaged in the Search follows the same procedure during the operation, it becomes relatively easy to determine what has been done, what additional work must be done and what the results have been. IT MUST BE THOROUGH - given the fire circumstances, the Primary Search must be thorough in the areas where it is possible to conduct it. Only a thorough Search will insure that potential victims are discovered. A search that is haphazard and only checks certain points will often result in a failure of the search. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 31 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 SIMULTANEOUS OPERATIONS DURING THE PRIMARY SEARCH During the Primary Search many other activities must be ongoing simultaneously with the Search. Decisions must be made, rational, correct decisions cannot be made unless there is good informative FEEDBACK. FEEDBACK MUST: Report the conditions Report the progress of the Search including its present location Has the victim been located? Is the search team/s out and safe? What are the conditions being encountered by the teams, heat smoke, debris etc.? The seat of the fire. Has it been located? Actual and probable extensions of the fire Is help required? Additional personnel for the Search and where they are required? Additional personnel and equipment for fire suppression FEEDBACK MUST INCLUDE: Anything that will affect the course of the operation. When the Officer MUST inform the person giving the information to him what steps will be taken to meet any problems. The information flow MUST be in both directions if it is to be successful. SECONDARY SEARCH – is begun either after the fire is controlled or as control is Being accomplished Is conducted slowly Is conducted systematically Is conducted thoroughly The secondary search may occur either after the fire is controlled or as control is being accomplished. It must be conducted slowly. There is less danger from the fire and smoke but more danger from other problems such as collapse. It must be systematic. Sector each area and if necessary, sub-sector these areas. Give definite assignments to each team so that there is no duplication of effort. It must be thorough. Overlook nothing and take nothing for granted. The major objective is to insure that you have either located all victims or there are no victims. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 32 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 Assign different search teams. If sufficient manpower is available change the entire team from the one that conducted the primary search. If sufficient manpower is not available for this, then assign each team to an area that is different from their original assignment. This will reduce the possibility of a stereotyped search and will probably result in a different approach by the new team. The main objective of the Secondary Search is - TO LOCATE VICTIMS NOT FOUND DURING THE PRIMARY SEARCH A thorough Secondary Search will also give you benefits that are not part of the main objective. Some of these benefits are: 1. It can result in the location of fire extension 2. It can locate serious hazards to your operations, holes in floors, hanging debris, weakened major structural areas 3. It can allow you to increase effective ventilation 4. Various salvage and overhaul procedures can become a part of the secondary search The Search TEAM concept is a valid one when it can be used. Two or more Firefighters operating as a Search Team will gain certain advantages over a Firefighter operating alone. Some advantages are: 1. The danger is shared. A situation that is endured by more than one person is a situation that is more easily handled. 2. The Firefighters have each other for help. If a Firefighter is injured or has an equipment problem during a search operation, having a team member there will mean that the Firefighters who is in difficulty will have at least one person immediately at hand to assist him. 3. Details are not as apt to be overlooked. Two or three sets of eyes and ears are less apt to miss things than just one set. 4. A team can cover an area more quickly than one firefighter can. 5. Immediate communications between the members of the team can result in less needless chance taking. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 33 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 SEARCHING TECHNIQUES 1. Probe with leg or tools to determine if anyone is lying close to doors or windows. 2. If fire is discovered on floor above the fire floor, a charged line should be called for. 3. Often closing a door may temporarily contain a fire. Allowing search of occupancy 4. Flip mattress into “U” position indicating room has been searched. 5. Always be alert for signs of trapped victims. Such as crying, coughing or moaning. 6. Check all closets thoroughly. 7. Look under beds & behind furniture. To locate victims under beds, insert your leg under bed and sweep gently back and forth. 8. 9. If heat and smoke prevent entrance into area, probe gently with arms, legs or tools to determine if any victims are lying close to door. DON’T WANDER AIMLESSLY ….PLAN YOU’RE SEARCH. MOVE TOWARD LIGHT, VENTILATION AND SECONDARY MEANS OF EGRESS. SECTION VI SEARCH and RESCUE OPERATIONS AND TECHNIQUES The objective of this section is that the firefighter, having reviewed the material contained in it, will be able to give from memory and then apply the searching patterns, helps and carries that will enable a Search and Rescue operation to be carried out to a successful conclusion. EXTERIOR SEARCH – The outside search is often overlooked. Whenever it is apparent that victims will be involved in an incident, as part of other operations but even so, should be carried out thoroughly. CHECK FOR:  Persons at Windows  Persons in the area who are trapped outside by fire conditions i.e.: unable to leave a persons yard due to fire exiting a window  Persons suffering from the effects of exposure to the fire i.e.: persons who have collapsed after exiting the building, persons blown out of a building, injured jumpers, persons who are attempting to re-enter the building. NOTE: If possible, try to obtain information from these people regarding additional victims who may still be in the building and their possible location. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 34 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 INTERIOR SEARCH The floor above the fire is CRITICAL. Check this first and position lines to protect the search teams escape route as quickly as possible under the circumstances. SEARCH OPERATIONS Follow a pattern. If a search team is used team personnel do opposite search patterns and meet. Gently use a tool to assist you during search operations. Start the search at the door, block the door open while you are in the room, keep in contact with the wall while sweeping the floor area, probe under and behind all furniture, check the tops of all furniture especially beds and chairs, thoroughly check all closets and bathrooms including the interior of tubs and shower stalls. LISTEN – Pause to hear coughs, gasps, crying and any movement. USE ALL SENSES – Seeing, hearing and touching. COMMUNICAT - Talk to other members of the search team. When a room has been thoroughly searched, CLOSE the door and if possible, mark the room SECONDARY DUTIES DURING A SEARCH Although the following are listed as secondary duties, you should remember to carry them out within the context of the overall operation. VENTILATION CHECK FOR EXTENSIONS ISOLATE AREAS – close doors when leaving an area PREPARE INTERIOR ENTRY POINTS FOR ATTACK LINE CREWS ISOLATE HAZARDS WHERE POSSIBLE (BLOCK ENTRY TO OPEN SHAFTS ETC.) Advise your Officer when you complete the search and of the results and conditions that you found. When the victims are located – the rescuer must now make a decision to: 1. Remove the victim 2. Isolate the victim 3. Be ready to defend the victim at their point of location. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 35 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 REMOVE THE VICTIM : if the decision is made to remove the victim, other decisions must now be made: a. Should the victim be completely removed from the structure or as in the case of a high rise operation, should the victim be taken to the staging area? b. Should the victim be moved horizontally to a safe area? This could be the case in a large fire resistive structure where victims could safely be placed behind fire and smoke doors. c. Are the stairs usable or will removal have to be accomplished over ladders. d. Can the victim give you any assistance or is the victim completely unconscious requiring that you perform the removal either alone or with help from another Firefighter. ISOLATE THE VICTIM : if you decide that isolation is a proper answer to your problem consider. a. Will the isolation be for a short time or for an extended period? 10 minutes or more. b. Will the isolation area remain safe for more than the period of time you can reasonably expect to use it? c. Will medical assistance be required or are the victims in such condition that a delay in treatment will present little or no danger to them? d. Does the isolation area have sufficient means of egress in the event your calculations are incorrect? e. Is there sufficient room in the isolation area for the number of victims that you have? 3. Defend the victim at the point where he is located - -this is one of the difficult situations that you can be faced with. It can come about because of various reasons…some of which are: a. The size of the victim precludes your removing him, either alone or with help from other personnel available. b. The physical condition of the person is such that skilled help may be required to prepare him for the move. A hospital patient could easily be in this group. c. The number of people requiring evacuation is considerably greater than your resources can hope to handle. A large number of elderly persons in a threatened auditorium would be an example of this. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 36 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 VICTIM REMOVAL METHODS Victims may be in the conscience, rational state, conscience irrational state, semi-conscience state or unconscious state. Regardless of their state, they may also have injuries that vary from slight to severe. THIS SECTION WILL CONSIDER VARIOUS METHODS FOR REMOVING VITIMS: ONE MAN WALK-ASSIT METHOD: Used to assist a person who needs a minimum amount of help. If the victim/victims are prone assist them to their feet then the victims arm is place over the shoulder and behind the neck of the person giving assistance. The rescuer grasps the victims hand and passes his other arm around the waist of the victim. ADVANTAGES: conserves manpower. Movement can be made at a fairly rapid pace. DISADVANTAGES: victim must be capable of giving a considerable amount of assistance. Standing up places the rescuer and the victim up into heat, gases and smoke. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 37 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 TWO MAN ASSIST METHOD: Used to assist a person who requires more help and support than can be given by the one man method. An arm of the victim is placed over the shoulder and behind the neck of the rescuer. Each rescuer grasps the hand passes an arm around the victim’s waist. Using this method, practically all of the victim’s weight is supported by the rescuers. If the victims are short and have no additional injuries, he can even be carried in this manner. ADVANTAGES: Easier to take the victim where you want to. Fairly rapid pace can be maintained. DISADVANTYAGES: Standing up places the victim and rescuer into heat, gases and smoke. It may require some help from the victim in order to begin the operation. CHAIR CARRY METHOD: The chair must be capable of holding the persons weight. Two firefighters are required. Place the victim in the chair, letting the victims hands hang down to their sides. The firefighter behind the chair tilts the chair towards him. When he grasps the chair back, he should lock the victims’ arms as shown. The other firefighter, faced away from the chair kneels, reaches back a grasps the vertical rungs. Both firefighters now lift and carry the chair containing the victim. Most of the lift is accomplished by the firefighter lifting the chair legs. The firefighter at the back takes the weight and pivots to a level position. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 38 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 OVER THE SHOULDER CARYY METHOD: Sometimes referred to as the Firefighter carry. The rescuer should position the victim so that he is on his back with his knees up, feet against the buttocks. The rescuer grab victim under the arm pits and lift with legs. The rescuer then takes one of the victim’s arms and place behind and around the rescuers neck. Supporting the victim’s weight, the rescuer lifts with his legs and supporting all of the victim’s weight. The rescuer secures the victim by hooking one arm through the victim’s legs and grabbing the victim’s arm securely. ADVANTAGES: More rapid removal of the victim. Minimum manpower required. DISADVANTAGES: The size of the victim can restrict the times that this carry can be used. The rescuer and victim must rise up into the heat, smoke and gases. If a victim has suffered injuries, additional damage will probably be done. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 39 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 IN THE ARMS CARRY METHOD: Perform this lift as described in the Over The Shoulder Carry until the victim is in an erect position. At this point, support the victim by one arm around the waist. The rescuer will now kneel on one knee and place the victim on his other knee. Pass your arm under the victim’s thighs. Roll the victim into the hollows of the elbows and stand up. Carry the victim away from area. ADVANTAGES: More rapid removal of the victim. Minimum manpower is required. DISADVANTAGES: The size of the victim can restrict the times that this carry can be used. The rescuer and victim must rise into the heat, smoke and gases. If a victim has suffered injuries, additional damage will be done. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 40 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 TWO MAN SEAT CARRY METHOD: Kneel on one knee on either side of the victim near the hips. Raise the victim to a sitting position and steady him with the arm nearest to the head. The rescuer, while doing this will be firmly grasping the arm of the other rescuer somewhere near the elbow. Each rescuer then slips his other arm under the victim’s thighs clasping the wrist of the other rescuer. Both slowly rise, in union, lifting the victim from the ground. When erect, they adjust their upper arms to form a comfortable back rest and to make the victim secure. ADVANTAGES: Victims of considerable size can be handled. Rapid movement from the danger area can be made. DISADVANTAGES: Rescuers and victims must rise into heat, smoke and gases. More manpower must be used. The rescuers must closely coordinate their movements. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 41 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 CARRY BY THE EXTREMITIES CARRY METHOD: THIS METHOD MUST NEVER BE USED IF THE VICTIM HAS BROKEN BONES!!! The victim is laid straight on his back, feet apart. One rescuer takes his place between the victim’s legs and the other at the head facing each other. The rescuer at the victim’s feet turns his hands palms down, grasps the victim’s wrists and pulls him into a seated position. The man at the victims head assists in raising him to a seated position by lifting his shoulders. The rescuer at the head position kneels on one knee and supports the victims back with the opposite knee and leg. Then he extends his hands, palms down, under the victim’s armpits from back to front. The rescuer at the victim’s feet, who has been holding the victims wrists, places them in the extended hands of the other rescuer who grasps them firmly. The rescuer at the victim’s feet turns his back, kneels and grabs the victim’s knees from the outside. The rescuer at the head position squats, keeping his back straight. At the order “RISE” by either member, both rise straight up and move forward. ADVANTAGES: Rapid movement from danger area is possible. The stronger of the rescuers can take the torso where the most weight will be. DISADVANTAGES: The rescuer must rise up into the heat, smoke and gases. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 42 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 CLOTHES DRAG METHOD: BLANKET DRAG CLOTHES DRAG METHOD: COLLAR DRAG: CLOTHES DRAG METHODS: Often a Firefighter must rescue a victim who is too heavy to be carried. The Clothes Drag is one method that can be used: The rescuers hands should grasp the victim’s collar with the victims head resting on the rescuers arm for protection. When the clothes drag is used to pull or drag a victim to safety, he should be pulled in a direction of the long axis of his body so that every effort is made to avoid bending or twisting the victim’s neck or trunk. If the victim is a firefighter wearing SCBA, he can be dragged by using the cylinder as a skid. Care must be taken so that the face piece is not dislodged. NOTE: If heat and/or smoke are severe, the rescuer should remain on the floor, grasp the blanket with one hand, supporting the victims head as much as possible and drag the victim either on your hands and knees or stomach. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 43 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 CLOTHES DRAG METHOD: USING AIR TANK AS A SKID BLANKET DRAG METHOD: The blanket drag (small rug, cardboard etc.) can be used in place of the clothes drag when the victim is nude or the clothing worn is too flimsy to drag the victim. To place the victim on the blanket or coat: 1. Place the blanket beside the face up victim and gather one edge close to the victim’s side. 2. Roll the victim toward you and while supporting the victim, gather the blanket underneath. Roll the victim onto the blanket and straighten it out. 3. Grasp the blanket on each side of the victims head and raise it enough to get the head and shoulders off the floor. ADVANTAGES: The rescuer and victim stay lo, out of the most severe heat, smoke and gases. A large person can be dragged by a smaller person. DISADVANTAGES: Progress is generally slow. Debris on the floors can cause considerable problems. BLANKET DRAG METHOD BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 44 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 BLANKET CARRY METHOD THIS METHOD MUST NEVER BE USED IF THERE IS A SUSPECTED FRATURE OF THE NECK OR BACK UNLESS THE HAZARD IS SO GREAT THAT TIME DOES NOT PERMIT PROCURING A BACKBOARD When removal of a victim is necessary before a stretcher or backboard can be provided, a blanket can be placed under the victim for lifting and carrying for a short distance. *PLACE THE VICTIM ON THE BLANKET USING THE BLANKET DRAG METHOD* Four rescuers should place themselves so there are two on each side of the victim. Grasp the blanket with both hands. On command, lean back using body weight. On command and in unison, the rescuers will slowly stand and remove the victim working together. This method can also be used to place a victim on a stretcher; follow the previous directions, then slide the stretcher under the victim. Then utilize the blanket to cover the victim. Regardless of whether you are going to place the victim on a stretcher or carry him, use great care when performing this operation as it is easily possible to cause additional injury. ADVANTAGES: A large person can be carried in this manner. Fairly rapid progress can be made. DISADVANTAGES: Considerable manpower is used. Requires considerable training so that all personnel work together. Can be difficult to perform properly in confined areas. Comparatively slow in removing a victim. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 45 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 ROMOVAL OF VICTIMS OVER LADDERS – This is one of the most difficult operations in the fire service particularly if the victim is unconscious or semi-conscience. At all times remember the following steps in order to ease the operation: 1. Place the ladder in a position that will allow the greatest amount of working room while placing the victim on the ladder. 2. Secure the ladder with a hose rope whenever possible. 3. The rescuer on the ladder should wear a life belt or place a leg lock on the ladder when he accepts the victim. The use of a life belt would be somewhat easier than the leg lock because it may be difficult to remove the leg lock after you have accepted the weight of the victim. 4. After receiving the victim, keep both hands on the beams of the ladder with the victims arms placed over your arms. This will assist you in steadying the victim and preventing him from slipping off the ladder. 5. Place one knee between the victim’s legs and if the victim is unconscious, place his feet on the beams so that they do not tangle in the rungs. 6. If a second firefighter is available, have him come up below you and assist in supporting you by placing his shoulder against your body. 7. If there are available personal, have the ladder properly footed. SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES FOR REMOVING VICTIMS OVER AERIAL LADDERS 1. Whenever possible, try not to be placed in apposition where the victim must be lifted over the trusses. This will generally require close coordination with the operator. 2. When securing a victim on an aerial ladder, you will find it necessary to use the rungs. If your hands are on the trusses, it will be impossible for you to properly protect the victim from slipping from your grasp. BUFFALO FIRE DEPARTMENT LESSON # 3 TRAINING MANUAL PAGE: # 46 SEARCH & RESCUE Reviewed 02/2019 There are times when the Two-man Parallel Ladder Carry may be of assistance to you. Align the two ladders closely together. (about a foot or so apart) Each rescuer grasps the outside beam of his ladder and place the inside arms palms up, so that the victim can be cradled by both rescuers. The rescuers will now proceed down the ladder carefully and in unison. The use of ladders for removal of victims should be avoided whenever possible. This is particularly true when the victim is unconscious or semi-conscience. The use of stairs is much more feasible for the removal of victims. HOWEVER…DUE TO TACTICAL CIRCUMSTANCES, BE PREPARED TO CARRY OUT LADDER RESCUES AT ANY TIME. AFTER VICTIM IS REMOVED FROM DANGER - When the victim is removed from danger the rescuers job is not over. A list of possible actions that may now be required includes: a. Administering of oxygen b. Treatment for shock c. Treatment for burns d. Treatment for broken bones e. Psychological help in order to calm them f. Providing of transportation to additional medical treatment Steps should be taken in order to insure that when a Search & Rescue Operation is carried out, at least all of these actions are available for the victim immediately upon his removal from the danger.