2/1 Emergency Operations General PDF

2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 1 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL -01. RECEIPT OF ALARMS.01 GENERAL Company Commanders are responsible for correct interpretation...

2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 1 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL -01. RECEIPT OF ALARMS.01 GENERAL Company Commanders are responsible for correct interpretation of alarms and for notification of all units and drivers that respond from the same quarters..33 STILL ALARMS Still alarms received while in quarters shall be reported to Metro using the business phone or radio. Do not use the fire phone to report still alarms. Use the Centrex emergency number (213) 847-5340. This number is to be used for emergencies only. Still alarms received while out of quarters shall be reported via radio. Members receiving an alarm shall, whenever possible, obtain the exact address (including apartment number) of the incident, nearest cross street, type of emergency and a call-back telephone number. These facts shall be relayed to Metro so that a proper record and dispatch can be made. If unit reporting the still alarm is on the radio, press CAV..66 DURING FIRE PREVENTION When a company or unit is called from company fire prevention duties to work at a fire or other emergency and the members, apparatus, or equipment become wet or dirty, the company will return to quarters to allow members to get themselves, the equipment and apparatus in a clean and serviceable condition. -07. RESPONSE.01 ROUTES OF Apparatus should normally respond along prearranged routes which provide the most expeditious and safe response, and will enable other companies to anticipate potential conflicting routes. Understanding between officers and drivers regarding response procedures and routes must be maintained. In times of, or areas of civil unrest, routes should be varied to minimize the possibility of problems..05 EMERGENCY RESPONSE A. Initial Assignments The first company on scene shall give a comprehensive and descriptive size-up. If nothing is showing or additional information is received, the remainder of the assignment shall continue nonemergency unless requested otherwise by the on-scene officer. This radio message shall be directed through Metro. The Chief Officer responding has the discretion to continue the response in the mode as directed. B. Move-Ups Nonemergency unless directed emergency by Metro. C. EMS incidents with multiple resources dispatched The first unit on scene shall provide the standardized EMS size-up on the TAC channel to the responding units, including whether to continue emergency or nonemergency, e.g., full arrest - continue emergency; sick (non life threatening) – nonemergency. Any change in resources or resource cancellations, shall be directed to Metro on dispatch channel. D. All staff personnel will be dispatched nonemergency unless directed by Metro or the Incident Commander to respond emergency. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 2 Exceptions Fire Chief, Deputy Chiefs, and Medical Advisor. E. Special Equipment Heavy rescue, emergency air, tractor companies, etc., shall respond nonemergency unless directed by Metro or requested emergency by the Incident Commander..06 DRIVING EMERGENCY The priority of Department resources responding to the scene of an incident shall be the safe arrival of the responding units. A. Controlled Intersections - Vehicles responding to an incident from the same location shall: 1. The first apparatus of the convoy shall stop at all red lights and stop signs. The remaining apparatus shall slow down and proceed through the intersection with caution and only when safe to proceed. Exception At intersections controlled by a Traffic Officer. 2. Single-unit companies (i.e., rescue ambulances, engine companies, Chief Officer vehicles, etc.) shall stop at all red lights and stop signs. Then, proceed with caution. Exception At intersections controlled by a Traffic Officer. 3. When approaching an intersection, apparatus drivers shall be prepared to stop. This shall include decelerating by removing their foot from the throttle and placing it over the brake pedal, even when the traffic signal is green. In addition, when appropriate, Jacob brakes and/or retarders shall be utilized. B. Apparatus drivers entering an intersection utilizing the opposing lane(s) of traffic in order to pass stopped vehicles, shall adhere to Department policy as described in 2/1-07.06 (A). When utilizing the opposing lane(s) of traffic and having the right-of-way as indicated by a green traffic signal, apparatus drivers shall slow their vehicles to a reasonable speed for traffic and road conditions which would allow the apparatus to be stopped if necessary. Drivers shall proceed with caution through the intersection. C. All Intersections - Officers shall cause drivers under their command to observe particular caution at ALL intersections since other companies may also be responding from locations other than their regular quarters, such as drills or company fire prevention. Emergency units from other agencies may also be responding. D. Apparatus shall not be driven at speeds greater than can be maintained with reasonable safety at any time..15 SPECIAL RESPONSE PROBLEMS Chief Officers having occupancies in their jurisdiction which present unusual or special response problems shall establish in writing, and put into effect, any special procedures necessary. They shall concurrently transmit a copy of such procedures, through channels, to the Emergency Services Bureau. See 2/1-08.50 for first alarm assignment change requests..20 RESPONSE NARROW STREETS Responsible officers shall use the following information to determine if "no parking" signs are needed on narrow streets where emergency response is restricted: If traveled roadway width is: Less than 20' - No parking, both sides of street or Fire Lane 20' to 28' - No parking, one side parking allowed on the same side of roadway as the fire hydrant. Over 28' - No restrictions unless there is a need to paint curbs red on sharp turns or at intersections. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 3 If restricted parking is needed, responsible Station Commanders shall submit, through channels, to the Emergency Services Bureau a written report with recommendations..45 USE OF WARNING DEVICES Fire apparatus shall be operated as emergency vehicles only when all warning devices (sirens and red lights) are operated continuously. Particular care should be given to operating the siren on a fluctuating sound (refer to Vol. 1, 2/1-12.01). A. RED LIGHTS: Red lights on Department apparatus shall be kept burning while responding to alarms or when necessary while working at emergencies. NOTE Except Item E. B. HEADLIGHTS: Apparatus headlights shall be kept burning during all emergency responses regardless of the time of day or night. C. SIREN AND AIR HORN: When operating as an emergency vehicle on freeways or when passing hospitals or like occupancies, sirens and air horns shall be used only as necessary, and when traffic conditions are favorable to their use. D. ELECTRONIC SIREN: All emergency vehicles are equipped with electronic sirens. The "Wail" position is the position of choice. The "Yelp" position and use of the "Manual" position are alternatives when there is a need to attract additional attention. E. FREEWAY INCIDENTS: Members are cautioned that the use of warning lights (flashing or constant) are disruptive to traffic flow in either direction. Warning lights shall be extinguished where operations can be safely continued without hazard, e.g., vehicles and personnel operating on shoulder. Where a lane(s) of traffic must be blocked, warning lights may be continued for the traffic approaching the blocked lanes, but lights which can be seen by the opposing traffic shall be shielded or turned off. Primary consideration shall be given to the safety of all members. Subsequent consideration should be given toward freeing all lanes of traffic as soon as possible..60 RADIO RETURN OF APPARATUS Members in command of apparatus turned back by radio while responding to an alarm, shall make the transition from emergency to non-emergency operation in an inconspicuous manner..75 POLICE TRAFFIC COOPERATION During response, members shall closely observe persons guilty of traffic violations, such as failure to yield or following too closely, in order to be able to assist the Police Department in apprehension and prosecution of violators (refer to Vol. 1, 2/1-28.30). 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 4.90 PASSING WITH CAUTION When responding to emergencies, no apparatus, with the exception of chiefs' apparatus, shall overtake and pass another unless the apparatus being passed is: A. Disabled or delayed, or B. Moving at a reduced speed due to terrain or type of apparatus; or C. Giving way in order to alter the response sequence so as to obtain optimum approach and apparatus placement at the emergency. Racing with apparatus at any time is strictly prohibited..95 FIRST-IN DISTRICT Companies that have been dispatched or have been given permission to be outside their first-in district shall return to their designated first-in district as soon as possible. Companies shall remain in their first-in districts unless dispatched or otherwise directed by Metro. -08. FIRST ALARM ASSIGNMENTS.01 DETERMINATION OF FIRST ALARM ASSIGNMENTS The following shall be used to determine first alarm assignments to a structure: A. CATEGORY A: Not less than four fire companies, including not less than one truck (e.g., 3 Engines + 1 Light Force + 1BC + 1Paramedic Rescue + 1 800 Series Rescue* + 1 Squad**). 800 Series RA if available in First-In District. Special Squad processing will apply. CRITERIA: 1. Required fire flow: less than 4500 GPM; and 2. All occupancies not included in Category B or C. DISPATCH: 1. The nearest available light force will always be dispatched. B. CATEGORY B: Not less than six fire companies, including not less than two trucks (e.g., 4 Engines + 2 Light Force + 1BC + 1Paramedic Rescue +1 EMS Captain + 1 800 Series Rescue* + 1 Squad**). 800 Series RA if available in First-In District. Special Squad processing will apply. CRITERIA: 1. Required fire flow: 4500 GPM and above. 2. Dwellings, apartments, and hotel occupancies four or more stories in height. 3. All commercial and/or industrial properties that exceed: a. More than 15,000 sq. ft. under one roof, on two floors. b. More than 10,000 sq. ft. under one roof on one floor. 4. All Fire Prevention Bureau occupancies in the Public Safety Section: a. Schools, special schools, day nurseries two or more stories; b. Sanatoriums, homes for aged, hospitals, public assemblages, and churches except B-2 occupancies under 100 feet. 5. All assemblage occupancies on second floor or above. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 5 DISPATCH: 1. The nearest available light forces will always be dispatched. C. CATEGORY C: Not less than four fire companies, including not less than three engine companies and one truck. NOTE This is a category of special assignments that the computer recognizes, i.e., Brush, Harbor, Airport, etc. D. AUTOMATIC ALARMS - Modified Dispatch. Initial dispatch: one Engine or one Light Force. 1. Automatic alarms include: waterflow, bells ringing, smoke detectors and manual pulls. 2. A full assignment or additional resources shall be dispatched by Metro for any of the following: if more than one automatic device is activated at the same address, or a second source of alarm, or confirmation of an actual incident is received. Any responding officer may request additional resources as directed. 3. Automatic alarms identified as requiring a Category "C" or "Special" assignment (brush, fire boats, etc.), shall not be modified on the initial dispatch unless additional information is received by Metro. E. Required fire flow: The standard used to estimate the number of companies needed to extinguish a fully involved structure fire is 250 GPM per line and two lines (500 GPM) per company. F. Evaluation: The total fire problem shall be evaluated; amount of water required, location of companies, personnel required, special equipment, life hazard, and exposure hazard, etc..25 DETERMINATION OF EMS INCIDENT ASSIGNMENTS The following shall be used to determine initial assignments to EMS incidents: A. BLS – NONEMERGENCY Basic Life Support – NonEmergency Dispatch: Closest BLS resource B. BLS – EMERGENCY Basic Life Support - Emergency Dispatch: Closest BLS resource C. ALS – EMERGENCY Advanced Life Support – Non High Risk Dispatch: Closest ALS resource D. ALS – HIGH RISK Advanced Life Support – High Risk Dispatch: Closest resource and ALS resource 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 6.50 "FIRE DEPARTMENT NEEDS HELP" ASSIGNMENT The following fire department resources will be dispatched on all "Fire Department Needs Help" Calls: 1 BC 1 EMS 1 Lightforce or Engine 1 ALS RA.75 FIRST ALARM ASSIGNMENT CHANGE REQUEST F-225 Forward As indicated To Bureau Commander, Emergency Services Bureau, Through Channels Number of Copies One Routing Upon approval of Bureau Commander, to Metro. Information Required 1. Clear justification for request: Life hazard, fire flow, congested area, structural conditions, etc. 2. Signatures: a. Station Commanders all platoons, if originated at the station level. b. All intermediate chief officers, all platoons, including comments on attached memo, if appropriate. -09. SPLITTING ENGINE COMPANIES.01 ENGINE COMPANIES Metro has the authority to split engine companies as the need arises..60 SPLIT COMPANY OPERATIONS When engine companies are directed by Metro to split, they shall: A. Staff each engine apparatus with four members by first using the truck company members and later by detailed members as arranged by the Battalion Commander. B. Companies shall use the radios assigned to the 200 Series Engine. C. Respond to alarms as two separate engine companies as directed by Metro. D. In fire stations where it has been necessary to place a truck company out of service to obtain staffing, and as long as one crew is in quarters, members shall be prepared to respond as a Light Force truck or engine apparatus as directed by Metro. The Company Commander shall telephone Metro and ask. E. Metro will request authorization for recall of personnel as needed to staff truck companies placed out of service. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 7.80 RADIO DESIGNATION A. Activated reserve apparatus that are to assume a "relief" status for first line apparatus shall utilize the apparatus identification number(s) of the first line apparatus. B. Within a task force, both triples are to be designated as Engine Companies. Each apparatus shall utilize its regular identification number(s) and be identified as Engine Companies (i.e., radio call sign for each triple of Task Force 35 would be Engine Company 35 and Engine Company 235). C. Reserve apparatus activated to augment first line apparatus shall be identified by its reserve apparatus identification number (i.e., radio call sign, Rescue 602, Engine Company 406). -10. COMPANY STAFFING LEVELS.01 GENERAL A. Engine 4 personnel - full staff 3 personnel (or less) - NAV with Metro - Only become involved in an emergency incident when it could save a life or when lack of action would bring discredit upon the Department. Notify Battalion Chief of circumstances and duration. Battalion Chief will arrange for detail as appropriate until regular staffing is hired. B. Task Force/Light Force 10 personnel - full staff 8 personnel - 200 Series engine closed. Metro and Battalion Chief notified. If duration is more than 2 hours, Division notified. With 8 personnel run as a light force or 2 engines. Both engines may be staffed and truck removed from service with Metro approval. 7-6 personnel - close engine.Metro and Battalion Chief notified. If duration is more than 2 hours, notify Division. Run as a light force with truck and 200 Series Engine. 5 personnel - run either as a light force or engine. Metro, Battalion Chief and Division notified. (200 Series Engine may run with engine as a 2-piece company.) Same notification as 8 and 7-6 staffing. 4 personnel - run engine only. Metro, Battalion Chief, and Division notified. C. Hazardous Materials Company 4 personnel - may run with engine, or light force to provide staffing. Division Commanders have authority to authorize the closing of companies for durations longer than two hours as stated above. The Floor Captain at Metro shall be notified via telephone by the Company Commander when companies are unavailable for emergency response because of reduced staffing. A BLS or paramedic ambulance will not be closed to staff fire apparatus without first obtaining the approval of the concerned Division Commander. The detail and hiring of personnel to staff fire companies and Rescue Ambulances at their authorized strength is of the highest priority. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 8 -12. MOVE-UPS.01 RESPONSE-WARNING DEVICES Unless otherwise directed by Metro, companies moving up to other quarters shall respond "non-emergency". When directed to move up "emergency" (red lights & siren) to other quarters, responding companies shall change to "non-emergency" when entering designated first-in district. This transition from "emergency" to "non-emergency" operation shall be made in an inconspicuous manner..25 IDENTITY Companies moving to another company's quarters because of greater alarms, drills, etc., will retain their own identity in all communications with Metro. They will respond to all first alarms requiring the response of the company whose quarters they occupy..75 CARE OF QUARTERS The care, discipline, and regard for property and possessions which companies exercise in their own quarters shall govern companies located in other quarters. Such quarters shall be cleaned and maintained in accordance with Department standards. -14. GUIDELINES DURING TACTICAL ALERT.01 TACTICAL ALERT "Tactical Alert" describes a state of preparedness necessary to cope with civil disturbances or natural/man-made disasters. Special consideration shall be given to safety of personnel, special operational tactics, protection of apparatus and equipment, etc. Activities outside of quarters shall be restricted to emergency response. A "Tactical Alert" may be initiated in selected first-in districts or Department-wide. Given the dynamics of the demographics of our City, it is impractical to focus on specific geographic areas. The tactics developed must be flexible enough to be applicable to any area. The characteristics and contributing factors of each incident will determine incident perimeters. The presence of organized crime, the availability of automatic weapons, and the increased use of controlled substances exacerbate the risks associated with civil unrest. Operational tactics must allow for the worst-case scenario..05 PROTECTION OF PERSONNEL Fire Department personnel are especially susceptible to personal attack during periods of civil unrest. Whenever possible, Department resources should respond with an LAPD escort which would remain on the scene and provide protection for personnel during the duration of the incident. If such escort is not available, consideration shall be given to the delay of entry into especially hazardous areas. A. The following items shall be worn by members riding on open-cab apparatus and jump seats of enclosed apparatus, during and returning from emergency responses. 1. Goggles or breathing apparatus face piece. 2. Helmet. 3. Full turnouts. 4. Body Armor B. Members riding in the cab area of enclosed apparatus, with windows closed, are exempt from the preceding requirement. C. Members shall ride in the cab area or jump seats at all times. D. Members riding in rescue ambulances shall have windows closed and doors locked. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 9 E. Alternate response routes shall be considered when responding to known trouble areas to avoid establishing a response pattern that can be anticipated. F. Discontinuing use of red lights and siren on responses shall be considered where such use would cause unwanted attention. Under this condition, the responding unit shall operate in non-emergency status..10 PROTECTION TO APPARATUS AND EQUIPMENT A. All tools and equipment normally carried in an exposed position shall be relocated in compartments or placed out of sight where possible. B. Equipment that cannot be concealed shall be removed from apparatus and stored in quarters. C. No apparatus shall be left unattended outside of quarters. Exception Sedans and rescue ambulances shall be locked when unattended..15 PROTECTION OF QUARTERS During times of civil unrest, particular attention needs to be placed on fire station security. Station Commanders shall address security measures to all members under their command, with a special emphasis on securing Department property should it be necessary to "pull out" of a fire station due to the degree of civil unrest. The LAPD should be notified of any vacated fire stations through Metro so they can provide necessary security. A. All exterior doors and windows shall be closed and locked. B. All window coverings shall be drawn closed. C. Lights shall be left on. D. Gates to parking lots and exterior courtyards shall be closed and locked..20 COMMUNICATIONS A. A radio watch shall be maintained. B. Business telephone calls shall be limited to necessary business calls of short duration. C. Consideration should be given to monitoring LAPD radios and Division Channels..25 FIREFIGHTING TACTICS A. Officers shall consider the overall environment of an incident, the potential of violence to firefighting personnel, and the damage to apparatus and equipment, prior to committing resources in a hostile area. Items for consideration shall be, but are not limited to: Type of incident Size of crowd Attitude of crowd Adverse reaction to the Department by the public Police on scene B. Line officers should be cognizant of potential violent civil outbreaks. When this type of situation is evident, officers shall, as soon as possible, make Metro and their chain of command aware of the incident. Officers should notify Metro to request the LAPD to "meet the Fire Department" as soon as the company commander becomes aware that the dispatch is to a known trouble area. LAPD will assign a unit to the call. C. During a Tactical Alert, tactical operations are influenced by the necessity to ensure the safety of personnel and security of apparatus and quarters. These considerations require tactics to commensurate with the risk. 1. The "buddy system" shall be utilized whereby no member operates or works alone at an emergency. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 10 2. Apparatus shall be parked at an emergency in such a manner as to facilitate rapid withdrawal from the area. 3. Apparatus shall be positioned, in such a manner, as to afford maximum protection to personnel..30 PERIMETER DELINEATION It may be assumed that civil unrest may expand to include other areas of the City which would not ordinarily experience such disturbance. It will be an LAPD responsibility to delineate the parameters of a given area of civil unrest. The Department will respond into zones of civil unrest from "staging areas" with a LAPD escort. Once available, Department units shall exit that zone and return en masse to the designated "staging area.".35 EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER (EOC) ACTIVATION Activation of the EOC is the most appropriate means of interfacing with other City Departments which may have responsibility during civil unrest. The Fire Department will request EOC activation through the Mayor's Office or the Chief of Police, as requested by the Deputy Department Commander and confirmed by the Fire Chief. Selective activation of the EOC may occur, bringing together only those agencies required to effectively manage the incident..45 DISPATCH MODIFICATIONS It may be necessary to make certain modifications to the existing dispatch procedures during periods of tactical alert. Dispatch modifications should take into consideration the safety of personnel responding into areas of known civil unrest, i.e., single engines and rescue ambulances versus task force operations. 9-1-1 calls shall continue to receive appropriate dispatch; however, within an area of civil unrest, rescue ambulance dispatches require an LAPD escort to ensure personnel safety. A modification of the Deputy Department Commander and Fire Chief notifications by Metro will be implemented in order to give early warning of a possible civil disturbance and allow for advanced planning to cope with the situation. Article X of the City Charter and Section 57.01.20 of the Fire Code gives the Fire Department the responsibility and the authority to take the necessary action to control the spread of fire. The Fire Chief has the flexibility to deploy resources, as necessary, to meet the Department's Charter responsibilities..50 FIREARMS Although all members have "peace officer" status, only those properly qualified (Penal Code Section 832) and meeting Department requirements are permitted to carry firearms. At present, this is limited to members assigned to the Arson Investigation Section. At no time will the Department tolerate or condone other on duty members carrying firearms. The unauthorized carrying of weapons is a misdemeanor under California State law. The unauthorized carrying of a loaded weapon is a felony. The Department will take aggressive measures to address the safety concerns of affected members through the provision of LAPD resources and other law enforcement agencies..55 LOGISTICS During extended Fire Department operations conducted during periods of civil unrest, consideration shall be given to such functions as: A. Change of Platoon within Affected Zone There are two different methods in which relief can be affected: 1. Oncoming platoon is directed by Metro to utilize Department buses, plug-buggies, reserve rescue ambulances, etc., to meet the off going company at a designated safe staging area. 2. Return to quarters and effect relief as usual. B. Feeding of Personnel within Affected Zone 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 11 The Department is currently under contract with a city vendors that stipulates quality meals to be prepared and delivered on short notice. Hot breakfasts, box lunches and dinners will be distributed to staging areas outside of the affected zone. C. Apparatus and Equipment Service and Repair The Supply and Maintenance Division will coordinate the mobilization of our fuel tankers to the staging areas. In addition, Supply and Maintenance Division mechanics will report to staging areas and make necessary field repairs. 60. HELICOPTER OPERATIONS Helicopter operations during periods of civil unrest should be limited to outside of those affected areas. Necessary reconnaissance will be done by LAPD Air Operations. Fire Department helicopters, except in extenuating circumstances, shall remain one mile outside of area(s) of civil unrest. -21. COMMAND AT EMERGENCIES.01 OFF-DUTY Any off-duty member encountering an emergency situation which falls within the responsibility of the Los Angeles Fire Department, shall assume command of the incident if no Department apparatus is present. The member shall be responsible for notifying the Fire Department and shall be in command at the scene until relieved by on-duty personnel. During the time a member is complying with provisions of this Section, the member shall be considered on duty..10 FIRST MEMBER TO ARRIVE The first officer or member to arrive at an emergency shall: A. Assume command. B. Give Metro a brief "On Scene" report, and a more thorough "Size-up" report as time becomes available. C. Request additional companies and equipment if needed. D. Retain command until properly relieved..15 INITIAL SIZE-UP Shall include, but is not restricted to, the following information, as applicable: A. Address or location of incident. B. Type of incident. If a structure, give occupancy type, including number of stories, type of construction, and building size. If brush/grass, give area involved and direction of travel, general wind conditions, accessibility and staging location. C. Life hazard. D. Additional resources needed (If appropriate, Name incident (eg., Broadway IC), Location of Staging, IC location). E. Exposure problems. F. Location of command post. NOTE For "Press Size-up", refer to Vol. 2, 4/6-80.28 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 12.15A ONGOING SIZE-UP A. Incident Commanders shall contact Metro if conditions change from Initial Size-Up. B. Incident Commanders shall contact Metro and let them know which companies will be held on scene and for what time period they will be holding companies on scene..16 EMS SIZE-UP A proper EMS size-up should be very brief and should not normally include vital signs. The standardized EMS size-up should normally be given on TAC 10 and include the following information: A. Address/Approach. If necessary, any corrected address or specific approach route. B. Age (appropriate) and gender of patient. This is particularly important if the patient is a child and was reported to be an adult. C. Chief Complaint. D. Level of Distress. E. Continue emergency or non-emergency. F. Equipment needed from rescue ambulance for patient treatment..20 PRECEDENCE OF COMMAND Except for the provisions outlined in Section 7.d of the Rules and Regulations which provides that at emergencies, acting officers shall yield to regularly appointed officers of the rank involved, precedence of command is hereby established as follows: A. First arriving Company Commander. B. First arriving Task Force Commander. C. First arriving Battalion Commander..25 BATTALION COMMANDER RESPONSE Metro shall dispatch the Administrative Battalion Commander (BC regularly assigned to the Battalion where the incident exists) to emergencies that require a Chief Officer. If unavailable, the nearest available Battalion Commander will be dispatched. When more than one Battalion Commander is dispatched, the first Battalion Commander arriving on the scene is in command until relieved by a superior officer..26 HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SPILLS The Los Angeles Police Department and the Los Angeles Fire Department have signed an Agreement giving the authority for scene management of hazardous materials spills on streets and roadways within the City boundaries (other than the freeways) to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Incident Commanders will coordinate with the L.A.P.D. but in every instance assume command when arriving on scene. Hazardous material spills on freeways are under the jurisdiction of the California Highway Patrol. Incident Commanders will coordinate with the CHP in the abatement of hazardous material spills on freeways but in all instances, Fire Department officers will retain command of Fire Department Personnel and equipment..27 DIVISION COMMANDER RESPONSE Metro will dispatch the Administrative Division Commander to all Greater Alarm Incidents. If the Administrative Division Commander is unavailable, the nearest available Division Commander will be dispatched. Upon arrival, the Division Commander shall take command until relieved or notifies Metro that the fire is under control. In other than greater alarms, when a full assignment is held by a Battalion Commander, Metro will notify the Administrative Division Commander who will have the option of responding or not. Upon arrival at the incident, the Administrative 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 13 Division Commander shall notify Metro and the previous officer in charge. Unless stating otherwise, the Administrative Division Commander shall be deemed to be in command of the incident. In any event, while on the scene, the Administrative Division Commander shall be held responsible for Department operations..30 RESPONSIBLITY FOR ORDERS Any officer issuing orders or countermanding the orders of another officer, shall evaluate and assume full responsibility for the effects of such orders and shall obtain authority from the officer in charge of the emergency before diverting companies from their original assignment..50 COMMAND POST At every greater alarm or major emergency, the officer in charge shall establish and announce the location of, and normally remain at, the Command Post. Should said officer's temporary absence become necessary, the officer shall designate another officer to take charge of the Command Post. When a change of command takes place at an incident, the Incident Commander will establish which vehicle will be designated as the Command Post..60 FORMATION OF STAFF The officer in charge shall initially form a staff from available field personnel. Large scale operations shall be conducted in accordance with the procedures in Vol. 1, 2/3, Emergency Operation/Large Scale..70 CHIEFS' STAFF ASSISTANTS Members assigned as drivers of Chiefs' vehicles shall be designated as Chiefs' Staff Assistants. An order or directive received from a Staff Assistant in the course of emergency duty, when the name of the directing officer is given, must be promptly carried out as coming directly from the Chief. Staff Assistants are strictly forbidden to give orders not specifically authorized..80 RESOURCES The Incident Commander shall be responsible for the determination for resources of personnel, apparatus, equipment, special equipment, equipment pools, field repairs, and supplies to abate the emergency. Consideration shall be given to the amount of equipment and personnel necessary and the time required to furnish these resources. The destination of requested resources shall be clearly defined..85 USE OF AIRCRAFT FIREFIGHTING APPARATUS FOR OFF-AIRPORT INCIDENTS The Incident Commander in charge of an emergency, requiring the use of crash apparatus off the airports, shall request through Metro whatever apparatus is needed for the protection of life and property. Metro will obtain a verbal list of apparatus available for dispatch from the Task Force Commander of either FS-80 or FS-90 and so advise the Incident Commander. The Incident Commander shall then judiciously evaluate the need and request the necessary apparatus. All officers must be aware of the consequence of taking crash apparatus off the airports in such quantities as to make it impossible to meet part 139 of FAA regulations, thus causing operational difficulties for the airport. There are no specific Federal requirements for aircraft crash apparatus at Van Nuys Airport. However, large and small aircraft traffic is constantly increasing and the possibility of an aircraft crash at this airport is ever present. Therefore, this Department must acknowledge the responsibility of being prepared for such an incident by having aircraft crash equipment available. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 14.90 REPORTING "AVAILABLE" It shall be the duty of commanders at all levels to report personnel, apparatus, and special equipment "available" at the earliest practicable time (for definition of "available", refer to Vol. 2, 4/7-90.20). -24. DEPUTY DEPARTMENT COMMANDER.01 GENERAL The Deputy Department Commander shall be a Chief Deputy or Deputy Chief, as designated by the Fire Chief. During normal business hours and when readily available, the Deputy Department Commander shall be the Deputy Chief in charge of the Emergency Services Bureau. At all other times, this command function is exercised by the designated Deputy Department Commander as listed on the daily Chief Officers' Assignment Roster in accordance with IMT members only..25 RESPONSIBILITY AND AUTHORITY The Deputy Department Commander has the following responsibilities and authority: A. Command - 1. Shall respond to and take command of field operations at major emergencies. B. Authorization - 1. For dispatch of more than a full first alarm assignment to areas outside the City. Refer to Vol. 1, 2/1-91.01 and 2/1-91.10. 2. For requests to other fire jurisdictions when assistance is required in L.A. City. EXCEPTION "Mutual Response" areas. Refer to Vol. 1, 2/1-91.20 3. Recall Refer to Vol. 1, 2/7-00.00 -28. OPERATIONS AT EMERGENCIES.01 REPORTING LOCATION Individuals, fire units, or companies arriving at or leaving the scene of an emergency shall promptly report arrival or departure either personally or by radio to the Incident Commander..05 GENERAL OPERATIONS Supervisors of field resources shall remain with their assigned personnel and maintain company unity, or know the whereabouts of their personnel at all times. Commanders shall require that members work in pairs, especially during extreme hazardous situations (e.g.,IDLH environments), for the protection of their personnel. They shall promptly apprise the officer in charge of all pertinent conditions within their sphere of operation. They shall maintain close liaison and coordination with adjacent commanders. Members, other than Company Commanders, shall remain with the apparatus while awaiting orders. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 15.06 SAFETY AT EMERGENCIES Safety at emergencies is the responsibility of all members. The Official Safety Policy of the Department is contained in Book 75, Accident Prevention and Safety Program Manual. All members shall familiarize themselves with hazards identified in Book 75..07 FIREFIGHTER EMERGENCY The term “Emergency Traffic” shall be used to clear radio traffic when a Firefighter Emergency exists during emergency operations. Clear text shall be used to identify the type of emergency “Firefighter Down”, “Firefighter Missing”, or “Firefighter Trapped.” A distinctive “Emergency Traffic” tone transmitted by Metro on the Incident TAC Channel(s) and the Incident command channel will be followed by clear text that identifies the type of emergency. This radio procedure is to be used to notify on-scene personnel that a firefighter emergency has occurred or a firefighter is missing at the incident. The use of “Emergency Traffic” is used to clear the radio channels for an important radio message. When an “Emergency Traffic” is announced, other personnel shall refrain from using these radio channels unless a radio message is necessary for the safety of personnel or involves the emergency situation. When a member activates the emergency button on their handheld radio, Metro will attempt to make contact with member on TAC 6. Metro shall immediately notify the Incident Commander at the scene, and provide identification of the radio assignment. The Incident Commander, Metro and members on-scene of a Firefighter Emergency shall follow the procedures outlined in the Department’s Firefighter Incident Safety and Accountability Training Bulletin No. 2..08 RAPID INTERVENTION COMPANY The Incident Commander shall designate at least one fire company as a Rapid Intervention Company (RIC) if any additional fire resources above the initial alarm assignment are requested. The Incident Commander shall consider the number of Rapid Intervention Companies based upon potential hazards present. When an incident becomes a greater alarm(greater than 6 companies) the following will be added to the assignment and designated as RIC, at the discretion of the IC: USAR Group as RIC (in place of extra engine company) EMS Battalion Captain An additional tactical rescue channel as Rescue Channel for Rescue Group The designated Rapid Intervention Company shall develop a plan based upon the situation present and have tools available that would assist in the rescue of personnel involved in the incident. When a Rapid Intervention Company is deployed to rescue personnel in trouble, their function is to make every attempt in providing a rapid rescue. When a Rapid Intervention Company(ies) are deployed, the Incident Commander should designate a secondary Rapid Intervention Company(ies) as soon as possible. When multiple rapid intervention companies are assigned, consideration shall be given in forming a Rescue Group Supervisor to coordinate the multiple Rapid Intervention Companies..10 PLACING APPARATUS AT FIRES Members shall use good judgment in placing apparatus at fires. Unless otherwise directed, the roadway in the immediate vicinity of a fire shall not be obstructed by apparatus nor shall fire hydrants, apparatus, or railroad tracks be blocked unnecessarily. When absolutely necessary to block the above locations, a competent driver shall be immediately available. Apparatus shall be parked heading towards safety in dead end canyons or roads, or in situations when a hasty withdrawal may become necessary. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 16.15 TRAFFIC CONGESTION The officer in charge shall cause suitable warning devices to be established at a distance sufficient to insure safe operations when the passage of trains, automobiles, or pedestrians would interfere with fire fighting operations. Refer to Vol. 1, 2/1-07.45 E..16 SIGALERT It shall be the Incident Commander's responsibility to notify Metro when situations develop that a sigalert would help to inform the citizens of an inconvenience or hazardous condition. This notification would include the estimated duration of the incident. Examples of such conditions would include street closings due to emergency incidents greater than 30 minutes, areas expected to sustain storm damage, areas possibly exposed to a moving brush fire, which may or will cause evacuation of areas and information on reentering an evacuated area. In addition, information on the location of sandbags, emergency preparedness procedures, the location of evacuation centers and other instructions that are useful to the citizens in need, may be broadcast as a sigalert. It is extremely important that the highest ranking officer in charge at the termination of the sigalert, CANCEL IT..18 PUMP OPERATION To prevent damage to pump packing seals, all pumps shall not be operated dry for a period exceeding 30 seconds. Where practical, fire pumps shall be carried wet..20 PUMPING OPERATIONS Company Commanders shall be guided by the judgment of pump operators as to the advisability of handling additional lines. A. During Emergency incidents, unusually low hydrant pressure, with respect to normal pressure, shall be promptly reported to the Incident Commander. The Incident Commander shall make immediate verbal notification to the Hydrants and Access Unit through Metro. If the Hydrants and Access Unit cannot be contacted, Metro shall notify the Department of Water and Power. B. Reports - The concerned Company Commander shall cause the pump operators who experienced the incident to forward an F-225. F-225 Forward As indicated To Bureau Commander, through channels Number of copies One Routing Bureau Commander to the Hydrants and Access Unit Information required 1. Date and time 2. Hydrant location 3. Brief description of the condition encountered. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 17.22 DAMAGED HYDRANTS During emergency incidents when a hydrant is found to be damaged and inoperative, and/or a break in the main is detected, the officer in charge shall cause Metro to immediately notify the Department of Water and Power..25 AERIAL OPERATIONS Members using aerial ladders or aerial platforms shall be guided by the advice of the officer in command of the company, or a certified operator of the apparatus, regarding safe operations..27 LADDER PIPE OPERATIONS Task Force Commander shall establish operational policies to ensure that the largest nozzles used for ladder pipe operations are: L.T.I. and American LaFrance Apparatus using the Akron 1495 Ladder Pipe Assembly: A. 1000 G.P.M. - Using the 2" straight tip or the Akron Brass Turbo Master Spray Nozzle(350 to 1000 G.P.M.). B. 1-3/4" Straight Tip (800 G.P.M.) - shall be carried attached but may be changed at the scene of emergencies depending on primary use of the heavy stream. All Other Truck Apparatus (Seagrave Aerial Ladder Trucks) using the Akron 1495 Ladder Pipe Assembly: A. 800 G.P.M. using the 1-1/2" or 1-3/4" straight tip or the 500 G.P.M. setting on the spray nozzle. B. Either 1-1/2" or 1-3/4" Straight Tip - shall be carried attached but may be changed at the scene of emergencies depending on the primary use of the heavy stream. Members are prohibited from using the 2" tip or flowing 1,000 G.P.M. on Seagrave aerial ladder trucks..28 WAGON BATTERIES Company Commanders shall have the option to equip wagon batteries with one of the following tips: A. 1-1/2 inch Smooth Bore Tip, or B. 500 G.P.M. (or larger) Fog Hog, Variable Spray Tip, or C. 5/8 inch Smooth Bore Tip for companies regularly responding into grass areas during the grass season. Other sizes of tips may be placed on wagon batteries during on-scene emergency incidents at the direction of the Incident Commander or officer in charge..30 DRIVING OVER FIRE HOSE Fire apparatus shall not be driven over hose lines, except in cases of absolute necessity. Police action shall be requested when hose "in use" is driven over by unauthorized vehicles. Members are urged to use good judgment in these situations and properly weigh all factors involved before taking action. Aggravated cases shall be reported by telephone to the Arson Unit Code-A-Phone (Ext. 5-2225), followed by a letterhead report. F-225 Forward Within twenty-four hours. To Bureau Commander, through channels. Number of copies One Routing 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 18 Bureau Commander to Arson Investigation Unit. Information required 1. License number and description of vehicle involved. 2. Name, address, description, and other pertinent information about the driver. 3. Complete description of the circumstances that relate to the incident, i.e., time, location, conversations that took place, witnesses, etc..32 HARASSMENT Officers shall telephone a report of harassment to the Arson Unit Code-A-Phone (Ext. 5-2225) when any of the following occur: A. Bombardment of Department apparatus or personnel by missiles which are capable of inflicting bodily injury or damage to equipment. B. Discharge of firearms at Department apparatus or personnel. C. Injury to personnel or damage to apparatus as a result of any belligerent action by civilians. D. Flagrant physical contact with, or obstruction of, members attempting to carry out their duties. Include the following information in the Code-A-Phone report: A. Date, time and location of the incident. B. Company or unit involved. C. Brief description of the incident, including the names of any witnesses. D. Injuries or damage: 1. Name(s) of injured. 2. Shop number of the vehicle and a dollar estimate of the damage. E. Police assistance - if requested. Give time of request and time of arrival. A Journal entry shall be made of the incident. A verbal report of the incident shall be made to the Administrative Battalion Commander for transmittal through the chain of command. No additional reports are required unless specifically requested..40 RELIABILITY OF EQUIPMENT Members shall, if possible, use only Department hose and equipment where reliability of equipment is of first consideration..45 USING EXTERIOR STANDPIPES When operating Department hose lines on fires above the third floor, exterior standpipes shall be used when practical..50 SMOKING AREAS The Incident Commander has the option to cause smoking areas to be designated and signs indicating the smoking area to be posted. This shall apply particularly to incidents in mountain areas. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 19.53 SMOKING WHILE ON APPARATUS Members shall not smoke while on or in any Department apparatus..55 FIRE DEBRIS Debris shall not be thrown from heights unless, essential in the extinguishment of the fire. When material must be thrown or glass broken, it must be known that the falling material will do no serious damage nor cause injury to anyone..60 REFUELING The officer in charge shall be notified as much in advance as practical when oil, gasoline or repairs are required at any emergency..65 EQUIPMENT CHECK Company Commanders shall, before leaving the fire scene, take an inventory to determine that their equipment is complete. If it is not, a search shall be made before leaving the scene. Upon return to quarters, the Company Commanders of companies which have lost or found equipment shall notify their Battalion Commander and be guided by the Battalion Commander's instructions. Failure to report excess equipment will be considered as serious, as failure to report lost equipment (refer to Vol. 4, 8/5-42.60)..66 BACKFIRING BRUSH OR GRASS Backfiring is a drastic measure that is to be used only in extreme emergencies. Prior to backfiring, approval shall be obtained from the Incident Commander. Backfiring brush or grass shall be used as an extinguishment tool in the same mode as brush or grass removal by tractor, hand tools, etc. Backfiring shall not be attempted unless all exposed structures are protected or considered as risks (refer to Brush Fire Operations Manual Chapter 3)..70 DELAYED ALARMS When it is detected that there has been a delay in reporting fires in hotels, apartment hotels, or institutional occupancies, the following shall be adhered to: A. During the investigation of a fire in these occupancies, the officer in charge shall determine: 1. If there was a delay in reporting the fire to the Fire Department. 2. If there is a witness to the fact that the alarm was delayed. 3. If any representative of management or other employee of the premises took any action to cause the delay of the alarm. B. When there is clear evidence that the alarm was deliberately delayed, then Section 57.20.01B of the Fire Code shall be enforced. A violation of any provision of the Los Angeles Fire Code is a misdemeanor. In order to effectively enforce Section 57.20.01B, the Incident Commander in charge must have a witness to the delayed alarm. A statement must be obtained from the witness, written in his/her own hand, and contain the pertinent facts, together with his/her name and both business and residence addresses and telephone numbers. This statement shall be dated, show the time of the day, and be signed by the witness. The information obtained and the statement of any witness shall be forwarded to the Fire Prevention Bureau. C. The procedure outlined in Vol. 2, 5/5-36.24 shall be followed if an arrest is necessary in aggravated cases. D. In all cases, the Fire Prevention Officer on call shall be notified immediately. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 20.75 RESPONSE TO ALARMS INVOLVING PRIVATE ALARM SYSTEMS Upon arrival of Fire Suppression personnel at any incident involving operation of a private fire alarm system, a thorough search shall be made to make certain that no fire exists. If the system must be left in an inoperative condition, a Fire and Life Safety Violation will be issued to the person in charge, ordering that: A. They cause the fire alarm system to be serviced immediately, and B. They establish a fire watch and maintain such watch until the fire alarm system has been restored to proper operating condition. If no responsible person is available, the Incident Commander shall determine the course of action, keeping in mind the possible liability of the City if subsequent damage occurs due to the fact that the alarm system is inoperable. A fire alarm system can be de-energized as follows: A. Disconnect system from AC power, and B. Operate trouble bell silencing switch to stop operation of trouble bell (this switch is usually inside fire alarm control panel). This will transfer the trouble signal from the sounding device to a trouble light which will remain lighted until system has been restored to proper operation. No attempt should be made by Fire Department personnel to reactivate an inoperative fire alarm system, if such operation entails more than replacing a glass in a break glass station and operating a reset button on the control panel. No attempt should be made to reactivate a system in which heat detectors or smoke detectors are installed. -36. PERSONNEL.01 ALERTS When, in the judgment of the Incident Commander, additional or rotation of companies may eventually be necessary, companies may be alerted and placed on a ready basis. When companies receive instructions from Metro to alert for move-up or assignment, members, except officers, may change into working uniform and prepare themselves in every respect..12 DETAILS OF STAFFING When additional staffing is required at an emergency, companies or fire units will be dispatched. As far as is possible, officers at the incident will arrange their operations to maintain the identity of companies with members working under their regular officers. RESTRICTIONS Members are prohibited from reporting to the scene of an emergency unless they have assigned duties in the emergency, or have inspection responsibilities in the occupancy involved, or unless it is a highly unusual emergency, in which case they shall report to the Incident Commander for an active assignment. Companies shall not add themselves to incidents without the permission of Metro. Special Duty members, not in uniform, assigned to furnish special staff or technical assistance shall wear their badge in plain view at all times while on the scene. This requirement does not apply to members of the Arson Section or to members who have been supplied with identifying arm bands (refer to Vol. 2, 3/7-77.12). 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 21.36 ANTICIPATING REQUIREMENTS Anticipating resource requirements at emergencies shall be requested through normal channels at the earliest possible time. No attempt will be made to meet such requirements by the utilization of off-duty personnel unless such personnel have been recalled..48 OFF-DUTY MEMBERS REPORTING AT EMERGENCIES Off-Duty members who wish to volunteer their assistance in an emergency may use their identification card for crossing fire lines. They shall identify themselves to the Incident Commander. If their services are not needed they shall return outside of the area of operation..60 MERITORIOUS SERVICE All officers are responsible for reporting in writing to the Fire Chief the circumstances and name of any member of the Department who performs their duties in a distinguished manner..72 USE OF CIVILIANS Accepting the services of civilians in actual fire fighting work is prohibited. All such offers must be courteously, but firmly declined..84. CIVILIAN PERFORMANCE AT EMERGENCIES Officers in command of emergencies should be alert for meritorious acts of citizens at emergencies. Reports of such acts shall be forwarded, through channels, to the Division office for approval, and for determination of appropriate level of recognition. These reports shall be forwarded without delay. Types of acknowledgments from the Department include the following: Letter of Appreciation: An act performed showing initiative and a clearly, proven display of good judgment, but where no personal life-risk is involved. Special Commendation: An act of rescue, or attempted rescue, involving considerable personal risk. -42. COMMUNICATIONS DURING EMERGENCIES.01 IMMEDIATE NOTIFICATION REQUIRED Metro shall be notified immediately: A. Whenever a "Firefighter Emergency" is declared at the scene of an incident. B. When the emergency is some distance from the dispatched incident address/location(Metro shall be notified prior to proceeding to the new updated address/location). C. When a company responding to an alarm, returning from an alarm, or proceeding to any destination, encounters an emergency en route and no other Fire Department apparatus is present. After notification, the proper steps will be taken to abate the emergency unless otherwise directed by Metro. D. When an apparatus responding to an alarm is unable to reach its destination. E. When returning to quarters from an alarm, or when arriving at other quarters on a move-up. F. Any emergency involving a school bus where the Police Department does not respond. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 22.17 PROGRESS REPORTS At the scene of any emergency, reports shall be made to Metro for the following: A. Upon Arrival - A brief verbal size-up by the Incident Commander. B. Comprehensive Size-up - Given by the Incident Commander at the earliest possible time(include pertinent details of the fire, such as address or location, size of building, material burning, exposure problems, assistance needed, life hazard, etc). C. Updated Size-up - Periodic reports on general conditions and changes in the situation. D. Available Resources - Resources made available by the Incident Commander need not again report themselves "available" via radio, except when the company or Department is in the "manual mode" of operation. Each apparatus must make itself available via the MDC device (push "AVI")..20 FIREFIGHTER EMERGENCY At the scene of any emergency, where a “Firefighter Emergency” has been declared, all members not involved in the rescue shall remain on their assigned Incident TAC Channel and use the radio only to give information necessary for the safety of personnel or communications critical to the management of the incident..34 UNUSUAL INCIDENT CRITERIA Metro shall be notified by the Incident Commander of the following situations in order to properly notify outside agencies. A. Upon response to any emergency involving natural gas. B. Upon response to a large scale incident involving chemicals and/or gases, where the services of members from the State Office of Emergency Services are needed. C. Whenever an explosion is believed to have occurred in a sewer, storm drain, maintenance hole, etc. D. Upon response to an emergency involving liquefied flammable gas. E. Upon response to an emergency involving or indicating ruptured oil or gasoline lines. F. When the incident involves a spill or discharge of oil, gasoline, or other pollutants into the environment, where the incident could ultimately pollute navigable waters. G. Upon response to an emergency requiring the immediate services of a public utility. If possible, identify the utility needing service. H. When an incident involves U.S. Mail. I. When any fatality occurs at a fire or emergency where the Fire Department is working. J. On occurrence of any serious industrial injury, illness or death of a victim at an emergency (other than traffic accident) to which the Fire Department has responded, be prepared to give the following information: 1. Name of the victim (not on the radio). 2. Address of the incident. 3. Brief description of the circumstances. A serious industrial injury is defined as "any injury or illness occurring in a place of employment or in connection with any employment which requires hospitalization for a period in excess of 24 hours for other than medical observation or in which an employee suffers loss of any member of the body or any serious degree of permanent disfigurement." (This includes all firefighter hospitalizations and burn injuries). It should be determined from the admitting personnel whether the victim has been injured seriously enough to be hospitalized for over 24 hours. Metro shall notify the District Attorney's 24-hour-a-day Command Center, (213) 974-3607, of all incidents involving industrial-related deaths or serious injuries which are expected to 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 23 result in death. In August 1985, the District Attorney's Office initiated a program whereby staff from their Occupational Safety and Health Section would respond to the scene of all industrial deaths to investigate whether or not criminal negligence was a factor. Our cooperation in notifying their office will allow for a timely investigation of the scene of a serious industrial accident. A Journal entry shall be made of the name of the District Attorney's representative contacted and time notified. This notification shall be made in addition to any CAL/OSHA notification. K. When utilities have been shut off in a building during an emergency incident. L. When debris from a fire is left on a public street, sidewalk, or parkway and, in the opinion of the Incident Commander, it presents a hazard to the public. This call should be made at the first indication that barricades, lights, etc., will need to be erected by members of the Street Maintenance Bureau, thus eliminating the need for members of the Fire Department to remain at the scene for an unnecessarily extended period. M. Whenever a fire occurs in a City Housing Authority Project. N. Whenever a fire-damaged building(s) or property cannot be properly secured and a responsible person cannot be contacted. Metro will request the Police Department to dispatch a police unit to assume security responsibility, thus relieving Fire Department companies on the scene. O. When the incident involves animals of any kind and the Incident Commander needs assistance with them. P. Whenever radioactive material is present at an incident. Q. Whenever any other emergency requires notification of agencies outside the Department. R. Incidents of serious injury involving a well-known celebrity, elected official, etc. S. Unusual incidents which, in the opinion of the Incident Commander, warrant notifying the Fire Chief or Deputy Department Commander..51 REQUESTING ASSISTANCE AT EMERGENCIES Use the following procedure: A. Identify officer or unit requesting assistance. B. Specify amount and type required. C. Give location where needed. D. Wait for acknowledgment of message before leaving radio..58 REQUESTING POLICE Members shall use the following terms to indicate the urgency of the situation when requesting police response through Metro: A. "Fire Department Needs Help." Use this term when there is imminent grave danger to LAFD personnel, i.e., members are being attacked, attack is imminent, or other severe emergency exists. LAPD will assign one unit to respond "Code-Three", and all other available police units in the area will also respond "Code-Three". (This is the same response that police receive on an "Officer Needs Help" call.) This term should not be used unless there is a DEFINITE NEED. If no Chief Officer is on the scene, Metro will dispatch one. B. "Fire Department Needs Assistance." Use this term when there is a large hostile crowd and apparent danger to LAFD personnel or apparatus. LAPD will dispatch one specific unit "Code-Three", and all other additional responding units may also respond "Code-Three". If no Chief Officer is on the scene, Metro will dispatch one. C. "Back-up the Fire Department." Use this term when there are belligerent individuals, and a likelihood of physical altercation. LAPD will dispatch a specific unit "Code-Three", and all additional responding units may 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 24 also respond "Code-Three". D. "Meet the Fire Department." Metro will use this term for requesting police response whenever a Fire Department unit is dispatched to a known "trouble area", or the Incident Commander requests LAPD for traffic or crowd control. Always specify the need so that the urgency can be determined. LAPD will assign a police unit non-emergency to the incident. Note Requests for traffic control are handled by Traffic Officers of the Department of Transportation Parking Enforcement. LAPD will generally not respond to non-injury accidents between civilian vehicles..68 PUBLIC ASSISTANCE When human needs exist as the result of fire, building collapse, flooding, etc., the Incident Commander shall notify Metro immediately. In the case of one or two family situations, assistance can often be expedited by telephone. In multiple victim incidents, it is generally more effective to have, a public assistance organization on the scene. Prior to relocating of fire victims, the Public Assistance Organization will receive permission from the Incident Commander..85 COMMUNICATIONS WITH AIRPORTS Radio communication with Los Angeles International and Van Nuys Airport Control Towers will be used only for the purpose of instruction and information pertaining to the location and safest means of approach to an emergency on the field. All other communications shall be directed to Metro. The Airport Ground Control Frequency Radio shall be used to communicate with the International and Van Nuys Airport Control Towers. Neither Airport Control Tower monitors Fire Department radio frequencies. -49. SPECIAL PROCEDURES.01 CATASTROPHES In the event of a disaster such as flood, earthquake, bombing, etc.: A. A Department-wide radio watch shall be maintained until an official notification is made by Metro that it is no longer required. B. In the event of an earthquake, all apparatus and personnel shall be moved from quarters to a pre-designated safe area. Companies or units will operate from these areas pending further notification by Metro. C. Operational procedures contained in the Earthquake Packets maintained on apparatus shall be referred to and put into effect whenever an earthquake is in progress or whenever the Earthquake Prediction Response Plan is implemented. D. When the stability of quarters is in jeopardy, as determined by an official inspection made by a qualified member of the Department of General Services or the Department of Building and Safety, the Department will determine what actions are to be taken by personnel assigned to the affected facility. E. When directed by Department Administration, prepare F-101A (Emergency Activity Record/Personnel), F-101B (Emergency Activity Record/Operations), and forward to Management Services Section, Bureau of Administrative Services. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 25.05 FLOOD CONTROL Sandbags for flood control are available for issuance to homeowners at all fire stations locations. Sand will be distributed to designated locations with locations announced via Administrative Teletype. Issue slips from homeowners are no longer necessary. However, authorization by the County Flood Control District is required for issuance in excess of 25 Sandbags to any one citizen. The numbers to call for authorization are: Business Hours (818) 458-4306 Anytime After Business Hours (818) 458-6308.09 FLAMMABLE LIQUID SPILLS When a company responds to a flammable liquid spill, they shall concern themselves primarily with the fire hazard. If a highly flammable liquid is involved, the fire hazard shall be abated by "wash-down" or other type of removal. The company shall remain at the scene while any such flammable liquid is exposed, or creates a fire hazard. If only a traffic hazard is involved (e.g., heavy oil spills or other slippery substances), police assistance shall be requested. The police have primary responsibility in matters of traffic safety. They will make arrangements for barriers, etc. When the police have arrived to accept this responsibility, companies shall return to quarters if there is no further fire hazard..12 FPB HAZ-MAT SPECIALIST The FPB Hazardous Materials Specialist will be on 24-hour call and is prepared to respond to a hazardous materials incident. Incidents involving gases and/or chemicals that endanger the health and welfare of personnel and/or civilians justify requesting the FPB Haz-Mat Specialist. Liaison between the FPB Hazardous Materials Specialist and the Command Post will be provided by the FPB Chief on call. Requests for services of the FPB Haz-Mat Specialist should be made through Metro..13 WARNING PLACARDS There are two placarding systems used to assist members in identification of hazardous materials. A. The D.O.T. placarding system is used for transportation and packing. B. The N.F.P.A. 704 Identification System on structures. The N.F.P.A. 704 Identification system can be recognized by a diamond with numerals, letters and symbols within the four colored backgrounds. The colored backgrounds shall be used for the four categories: A - Blue for "health" hazard B - Red for "flammability" hazard C - Yellow for "reactivity" (instability) D - White for additional information The numerals indicate the order of severity by five divisions ranging from "four" (4), indicating a severe hazard, to "zero" (0), indicating no special hazard. The letters and symbols indicate additional information in the bottom space of the diamond. For detailed information on the N.F.P.A. 704 Identification System refer to Manual of Operation, 12/7-80.00, F.P.B. Standard #25 and N.F.P.A. Handbook. Refer to the Department of Transportation "Hazardous Materials, Emergency Response Guidebook" carried on all apparatus for D.O.T. numbering system. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 26.15 CHEMICALS AND/OR GASES Large-scale incidents involving gases and/or chemicals that endanger the health and welfare of personnel on the scene, justify requesting the services of members from the State Office of Emergency Services (OES). Members from the State Office of Emergency Services (OES) Emergency Response Team will assist the Incident Commander in analysis, method of handling, and the removal and disposal of hazardous gases or chemicals. The Incident Commander shall include in the request the following information, if available. 1. Type of gases or chemicals involved. 2. Shape and type of the containers and whether they are pressurized or not. 3. Amount of substance(s) involved. Requests for services of the Emergency Service Response Team should be made through Metro..17 CHLORINE CYLINDER LEAKS Chlorine emergency repair kits, designed to control leaks in chlorine containers, are available through Metro at locations throughout the City. Repair kits are manufactured for the three sizes of chlorine containers: Type "A" for 100 and 150-pound containers, Type "B" for one-ton containers, and Type "C" for tank cars and tank trucks. When requesting these emergency kits, the Incident Commander shall contact Metro with a size-up of the type, size, and number of containers involved. Personnel trained to use these kits are the FPB Haz-Mat Specialist and personnel assigned to the Hazardous Materials Companies..18 RUPTURED OIL OR GASOLINE LINES It is not desirable for members of this Department to shut off oil or gasoline lines, as a valve shut off under pressure may cause a line to break in other places..22 COMBUSTIBLE GASES At any emergency where combustible gases are present or suspected of being present, the Incident Commander may obtain combustible gas indicators by contacting Metro. (Refer to Vol. 3, 6/11-01.80)..27 FLAMMABLE LIQUID SPILL - HARBOR AREA At the scene of a flammable liquid spill or a broken gas or oil line in the Harbor area, the first company arriving shall notify Metro of details of the emergency, giving the exact location, identifying the type of material involved, and estimating the rate of flow or amount of spill. Metro will then notify the proper private agency in order to facilitate control and arrange for cleanup measures. Every effort shall be made to limit contamination of the Harbor waters with flammable liquids. Flammable liquids shall not be washed into storm drains. If the liquid has entered a storm drain terminating in the Harbor waters, an "oil boom" shall be placed at the drain outlet to limit the spread of the liquid upon the waters of the Harbor. Request oil boom placement through Metro. The Incident Commander shall request Metro to send "vacuum trucks" to pick up flammable liquids from the street when these trucks can be used as an advantage. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 27.30 POLLUTANT SPILLS OR DISCHARGES The Incident Commander of a spill or discharge of oil, gasoline, or other pollutant into the environment in an amount which could enter the storm drain system (or any other system) and eventually find its way to United States navigable waters, shall supply Metro with the following information as soon as possible: 1. Where the spill or discharge has taken place. 2. What type of pollutant was discharged. 3. How much was discharged. 4. Where the pollutant will eventually end up. This information will be passed on to the U.S. Coast Guard, who will respond..35. RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL Whenever the presence of radioactive material is discovered at an emergency, the Incident Commander shall be notified immediately. The Incident Commander at a scene involving radioactive materials shall: 1. Immediately isolate the area and prevent entry or exposure of all Fire personnel and civilians. 2. Notify all units on the scene of the presence of radioactive materials. 3. Notify Metro of the presence of radioactive materials; Metro shall inform responding companies of the incident. 4. Assign an officer to monitor the Mini-Radiac(s) worn by members to ensure no one receives more than 25 roentgens in a period of 24 hours. Metro shall notify the Occupational Health and Radiation Management Office, County of Los Angeles, Department of Health Services, of radiation incidents. This County Department has the primary responsibilities for radiological monitoring and decontamination, and will dispatch a radiological monitoring team if needed. Whenever the incident involves any type of radioactive materials, Metro shall dispatch a Hazardous Materials Company..45 CONNECTING TO PIPING SYSTEMS Members shall not make any connection to a fire hydrant in order to supply any piping system other than a sprinkler system, standpipe, refrigerant diffusing system, or other system designed and intended for firefighting purposes. In the event that a request is received to attach to a piping system other than those excepted, permission must first be secured from a Chief Officer. If permission is received, the water must be supplied through a broken connection which will require the water to be delivered to an open tank before entering the pump..47 REMOVAL OF HAZARDOUS WASTE A. At the scene of an emergency involving the immediate need to remove hazardous waste (imminent danger to life and property, freeway spill, etc.) the following priorities will be followed in securing the services of a State-approved hazardous waste hauler: 1. Require the owner or responsible agent to request the services of an approved hazardous waste hauler: 2. Have other governmental agencies request the service (i.e., California Highway Patrol, Caltrans, Fish and Game, U.S. Coast Guard, etc.). 3. Request Metro to order the service. Metro will request the service, with approval of the Deputy Department Commander. B. In non-emergency situations where there is not a need to immediately remove the hazardous waste, the following procedure will be followed: 1. Notify other governmental agencies involved. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 28 2. Require owner or responsible agent to obtain the service of an approved hazardous waste hauler, furnish the Fire Department written proof that said disposal company has been employed and furnish the Fire Department with a certified hauler's manifest after the removal of the hazardous waste. 3. When no other governmental agency nor the owner or responsible agent will remove the hazardous waste, contact the Fire Prevention Chief On-Call who will make a recommendation to the Fire Marshal, or Deputy Department Commander for his approval or disapproval to remove the hazardous waste. In all cases where the Fire Department has requested and utilized the services of a hazardous waste hauler, the Incident Commander shall forward a F-225 to the Fire Marshal, THROUGH CHANNELS, stating the circumstances surrounding the incident and the need to request the services of a hazardous waste hauler. In addition, the following will be forwarded if utilized. a. A copy of the F-902. b. Written agreement between the Fire Department and waste hauler (this document is sometimes utilized by waste haulers under non-emergency situations where time allows the hauler to estimate the cost of removal and prepare the document). This agreement will be signed by the Fire Prevention Chief on call or the Deputy Department Commander prior to removal of the hazardous waste. This document will be forwarded with the F-225. F-225 Forward As indicated. To Fire Marshal, THROUGH CHANNELS Number of Copies One Routing --- Information Required Circumstances surrounding the incident and the need to request the services of a hazardous waste hauler..54 SEWAGE When response is made to an emergency involving a broken sewer line or sewage accumulation in a building, the Incident Commander shall request Metro to inform the Bureau of Sanitation, Department of Public Works. When any member of the Department is contacted by a citizen regarding such a situation, member shall refer the citizen to the Bureau of Sanitation..68 EVACUATION - RESPONSIBILITY The Fire Department and the Police Department have concurrent jurisdiction in emergencies involving evacuations. The Fire Department's authority to close an area and order an evacuation is found in the Los Angeles Fire Code, the Los Angeles Municipal Code, and the Los Angeles Administrative Code. Fire Department and Police Department Incident Commanders must view the nature of the problem as the factor that will determine which Department should order the evacuation. Fire Department personnel must exercise their professional judgment at an emergency that is a fire department control responsibility. At a police emergency, the expertise of the Police Department must be given the same consideration. The two departments must make every effort to coordinate their activities at the scene of the emergency. If the Department with the primary responsibility of control is unavailable at the scene, authority exists for either Fire or Police Department personnel at the scene to make the determination and to take 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 29 appropriate action. The following standardized policy and terminology has been approved by both the Police and Fire Department and shall be in effect at all emergency incidents when an evacuation is anticipated or in process: A. AREA DEFINED 1. Closed Area That portion of the involved area and/or surrounding area which presents a life hazard to such a degree that restricted entry is deemed necessary (i.e., hazardous chemical spill or leak, burnout of a box canyon). 2. Involved Area Is the geographical area surrounding an incident. The boundaries of the involved area are to be prescribed (i.e., traffic would be restricted to authorized individuals only south of Ventura Boulevard between Sepulveda Boulevard and Vanalden Avenue if a brush fire were occurring on Hayvenhurst and Mulholland Drive). B. ACCESS DEFINED 1. Limited Access Allow entry into the involved and closed areas of those persons meeting the criteria as established by the Incident Commander. 2. No Access Prohibits all unauthorized persons from entering the involved and/or closed areas. C. EVACUATION 1. Voluntary Evacuation Advise all persons within the identified area of the threat to life and property (advise able-bodied residents that they may remain to protect their property). 2. Mandatory Evacuation "Warning" to all persons of threat to life and property and "ordering" the removal of all persons from a closed or involved area (not usually ordered for brush fire incidents). D. ENTRY CRITERIA Entry criteria is established by the Incident Commander and/or Field Commander. It outlines those persons, if any, to be allowed into a closed or involved area (i.e., Emergency Passes, Press Passes, Fire Line Passes, utility company employees). The criteria should define whether automobiles are restricted. Incident Commander and/or Field Commander retains the authority to restrict entry of those persons who would normally be authorized to enter an involved or closed area. 1. Authorized Entrants Those authorized to enter an involved or closed area meeting the entry criteria as established by the Incident Commander and/or Field Commander. 2. Emergency Passes Issuance of temporary Emergency Passes is the responsibility of the Los Angeles Police Department. Passes will be issued in compliance with the criteria established by the Incident Commander and/or Field Commander. E. Field Commander Police terminology for the officer in charge of the incident. F. Incident Commander Fire terminology for the officer in charge of an incident. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 30 G. Primary Control Primary control is maintained either by Fire Officers or Police Officers depending upon the nature of the incident..72 HIGH VOLTAGE ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Members shall remain a safe distance away from all high voltage installations, equipment, and conductors, until assurance is received from Metro or an authorized Water & Power representative that the installation may be approached safely. Refer to Book #23, Training Bulletin No. 8..81 FUMIGATION Members shall not enter an occupancy undergoing fumigation unless they are equipped with self-contained respiratory protection, or until after thorough and adequate ventilation of the building. If the fumigant being used is a cyanide or methyl bromide, entry will not be made until the building has been thoroughly ventilated..90 U.S. MAIL A. Fires in U.S. mail boxes shall be extinguished with CO2 or dry chemical if possible, Metro shall notify postal authorities when informed of fire in a mail box by field units. Standby will normally not be required, and companies leaving the scene prior to arrival of postal authorities, shall secure the box against continued use. B. Normally, postal authorities should be present when any mail containers are opened..95 UNSAFE BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES Buildings or structures unsafe to enter due to fire damage or fire or explosion hazard. In addition to procedures outlined in Vol. 1, 2/1-42.34 follow the special procedure outlined in Vol. 6, 11/5-51.01 for posting buildings using an F-339..01 AT SCENE OF EMERGENCY The necessary information for completing the Field Incident Report, F-902, shall be obtained at the scene of the field incident. It shall be the responsibility of the Incident Commander to cause the completion of the F-902 at the scene or upon return to quarters. Entries are made in accordance with instructions in the Field Incident Code Book (Book 2). Metro shall be notified if the police arrive on the scene. The term "Field Incident" shall mean and include all emergency and non-emergency responses except "move-ups." The F-902S shall be completed for all field incidents by each company responding or moving-up as the result of a field incident. The F-902C shall be completed in all cases where an injury or death occurs as a result of a fire incident. The F-902M shall be initiated and/or completed by any resource when patient contact is established and/or patient care is rendered..50 UPON RETURN TO QUARTERS The following steps shall be taken: A. Telephone reports to Metro: The Incident Commander shall follow the instructions set forth in the Procedures Section of the Field Incident Code Book (Book 2). B. Telephone reports to Arson Investigation Section Code-A-Phone: The Incident Commander shall follow the instructions set forth in the Procedures Section of the Field Incident Code Book (Book 2). C. Telephone reports to Hazardous Materials Section of Fire Prevention Bureau Code-A-Phone: The Commander of the Hazardous Material Company shall report the information required from the California Hazardous Materials Incident Report Form after a significant Hazardous Materials incident. 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 31 D. Telephone reports to OSHA. OSHA Notification - State law requires responding agencies to report any "serious" industrial illness, injury or death that occurs at an incident immediately. This requirement includes public and private sector employees. A "serious" industrial injury or illness is defined in 2/1-42.34 (J). 1. Cal/OSHA - Any time a private or public sector employee (includes City, except L.A.F.D., County and State employees) suffers a serious industrial injury, illness or death at an incident including burns (other than a traffic accident on a public street or highway), the senior-ranking member on a rescue ambulance who transports the worker shall notify the regional Cal/OSHA office which is closest to the incident. If no rescue ambulance responds, the Incident Commander shall make the notification. Station and Unit Commanders are responsible for Cal-OSHA notifications when a member under their command suffers a serious illness, injury or burn and is hospitalized. Metro/West/South L.A. (213) 576-7451 Harbor Area (310) 516-3734 Downtown/East L.A. (562) 949-7827 San Fernando Valley (818) 901-5403 Note Refer to the Cal/OSHA “Safety and Health Protection on the Job” poster on your official bulletin board for current phone numbers. 2. Fed/OSHA - Fed/OSHA shall be notified if a Federal employee is involved. Their office is located in San Diego with a phone number of (619) 557-2909. 1-800-475-4020. The notifying member shall be prepared to give the following information: Incident date, time, address and description Victim's name, age, occupation Name of employer, address, phone number Extent of injury A journal entry including the name of the person notified and the time of notification shall be made in all cases. Station and Unit Commanders shall ensure compliance. E. Written reports: If necessary, entries shall be made on the following forms as set forth Vol. 5, 9/7-00.00 (Form Instructions): 1. F-2 -- Journal 2. FPOS or SORTS 3. All injury reports for Fire Department personnel F. Fowarding of Field Incident Report: The Incident Commander shall cause the F-902 to be completed and forwarded as per the instructions set forth in the Procedures Section of the Field Incident Code Book. -63. FIRE INVESTIGATION.01 GENERAL The primary responsibility for determining the most probable cause of the fire rests with the Incident Commander. CAUSE DETERMINATION: Investigations are initiated to determine the cause of the fire; and, for criminal fires, to establish the "Corpus Delicti" (body of the crime). Cause investigation has as its main purpose the determination of how the fire started: what was ignited, how, and why. Upon such determination, the cause is categorized into one of four major groupings: 2/1 EMERGENCY OPERATION/GENERAL 32 A. Incendiary Fire. An incendiary fire is one set by a human being, deliberately and with intent to do so. "Incendiary," as used includes: arson fires (willfully and maliciously set); unlawful fires (recklessly set); possession of flammable or explosive materials, e.g., firebombs; and attempted arson. It does NOT include illegal burning or juveniles playing with fire. B. Suspicious Fire. A suspicious fire is one where circumstances and logic indicate an incendiary fire, and/or an accidental cause cannot be eliminated. C. Undetermined Fire. An undetermined fire is one where there is more than one viable cause, none of the possible causes indicate an incendiary fire or the specific cause or opinion as to cause cannot be established. D. Other Known Cause Fire. Another known cause fire is one caused by chance, by natural causes, by design or mechanical failure/malfunction, or by the non-intentional act (or failure to act) of a human being..10 IMMEDIATE ARSON INVESTIGATION UNIT RESPONSE The Incident Commander shall request the immediate response of an Arson Investigation Unit when any of the following conditions exist: A. Incendiary or Suspicious Fires (or attempt of same) when, in the Incident Commander's opinion, Arson Investigation Section assistance is indicated. B. Juvenile fires when, in Incident Commander's opinion, Arson Investigation Section assistance is indicated. 1. Fire set willfully and maliciously by juveniles shall be classified as incendiary. 2. Incidents resulting from immature judgment of juveniles. C. Fatalities or probable fatalities. EXCEPTION Those deaths due to automobile, aircraft crashes, etc., do not require immediate A-Unit response. D. Serious Burns. Note Serious Burns shall be defined as the following: 1. Serious burns to the face, throat, or neck. 2. Signs of respiratory involvement. 3. Any child with burn area of 10% or more. 4. Any adult with burn area of 20% or more. 5. Deep extensive burns to hands and feet. 6. Any electrical burns. E. Explosion. EXCEPTION Those explosions due to known accidental causes do not require immediate A-Unit response. F. Greater Alarm Fires when more than 10 companies are working. G. Special Incident: In case of borderline incident