Charleston County Unified Auto-Aid Group Safe Structural Firefighting SOG 2012-2014 PDF

1 Standard Operating Guideline for Safe Structural Firefighting Page 1 of 60 Charleston County Unified Auto-Aid Group Standard Operating Guideline Effective Date 10/01/2012 Revis...

1 Standard Operating Guideline for Safe Structural Firefighting Page 1 of 60 Charleston County Unified Auto-Aid Group Standard Operating Guideline Effective Date 10/01/2012 Revised 10/08/2014 By the Authority of the Fire Chiefs Contents I. PURPOSE.................................................................................................................................... 3 II. BACKGROUND........................................................................................................................ 3 III. SCOPE...................................................................................................................................... 3 IV. RESPONSIBILITY.................................................................................................................. 3 V. RISK ASSESSMENT................................................................................................................ 3 VI. DEFINITIONS......................................................................................................................... 6 VII. PROCEDURES..................................................................................................................... 11 VIII. SIZE-UP AND INITIAL COMMUNICATION.................................................................. 13 IX. RESPONSIBILITIES OF COMMAND................................................................................. 14 X. COMMAND OPTIONS.......................................................................................................... 14 XI. PASSING COMMAND......................................................................................................... 15 XII. TRANSFER OF COMMAND.............................................................................................. 16 XIII. RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURAL FIRE ASSIGNMENTS.................................................. 17 XIV. STRUCTURAL FIRE ASSIGNMENTS IN AREAS WITHOUT MUNICIPAL WATER SUPPLY........................................................................................................................................ 21 XV. MULTIPLE FAMILY/APARTMENT STRUCTURAL FIRE ASSIGNMENTS............... 27 XVI. COMMERCIAL STRUCTURAL FIRE ASSIGNMENTS................................................ 33 XVII. OPERATIONS AT HIGH RISE STRUCTURE FIRES.................................................... 39 XVIII. PERSONNEL ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM............................................................... 49 1 XIX. MAYDAY/LOST OR TRAPPED CREW........................................................................ 534 XX. RAPID INTERVENTION TEAM (RIT).............................................................................. 59 XXI. Company Officer Initial Structural Fire Attack Priorities (S.L.I.C.E.R.S.)………………. 62 2 I. PURPOSE Emergency incident operations pose inherent risks of injury – or worse, death – to firefighters. The purpose of this guideline is to describe Fire Department policy regarding risk assessment and safety management while setting standard apparatus dispatch response assignments, company personnel assignments and command guidelines, for the emergency incidents listed, in order to enhance operational safety, effectiveness, and efficiency. This SOG amends all previous standard apparatus dispatch assignments, company assignments and command assignments for fire and rescue personnel and units responding to structure fires. From time to time, addenda addressing specific structure firefighting procedures may supplement this SOG. II. BACKGROUND This SOG was developed in cooperation with all components of the following departments: Charleston Fire Department, North Charleston Fire Department, Saint John’s Fire Department, Saint Andrews Fire Department, James Island Fire Department and the International Association of Fire Fighters; Locals 61 and 3697. III. SCOPE This SOG applies to all firefighting personnel who respond to and operate at any fire where the Unified Fire Departments mentioned above plays an active role. IV. RESPONSIBILITY This document is committed to providing the safest possible work environment for our members. It is important that all members operating at incidents operate in a safe manner. Each member is expected to accept the responsibility for his/her own safety, as well as to minimize risk to others. Towards that goal, all members are expected to operate under the following risk management plan. V. RISK ASSESSMENT All firefighting and rescue operations involve an inherent level of risk to firefighters. A basic level of risk is recognized and accepted, in a measured and controlled manner, in efforts that are routinely employed to save lives and property. These risks are not acceptable in situations where there is no potential to save lives or property. A higher level of risk is acceptable only in situations where there is a realistic potential to save known endangered lives. This elevated risk must be limited to operations that are specifically directed toward rescue and where there is a realistic potential to save the person(s) known to be in danger. The initial risk assessment will be conducted by the first officer(IC) to arrive on scene. It is the responsibility of the incident commander to evaluate the level of risk in every situation. The IC shall continually reassess conditions to determine if the level of risk has changed and a change in strategy or tactics is necessary. This risk evaluation shall include an assessment of the presence, survivability and potential to rescue occupants. When there is no potential to save 3 lives, firefighters shall not be committed to operations that present an elevated level of risk.. As command is transferred to a chief officer so is the responsibility for ongoing risk assessment. This responsibility is a continuous process for the entire duration of each incident. The incident commander shall assign one or more safety officers to monitor and evaluate conditions to support this risk analysis. An incident command system shall be established, beginning with the arrival of the first fire department member at the scene of every incident. The incident commander must conduct an initial risk analysis to consider the risk to firefighters in order to determine the strategy and tactics that will be employed. When there is no potential to save lives, the risk to firefighters should be evaluated in proportion to the ability to save property of value. When there is no ability to save lives or property, there is no justification to expose firefighters to any avoidable risk, and defensive fire attack operations are the appropriate strategy. The minimum factors to be considered in the risk assessment of any class of structure fire are: Risk to Building Occupants Can you see or hear people inside the structure? Do you have reliable information that there are people inside the structure? Based on fire conditions, is it reasonable to believe that anybody inside of the structure is savable? Building Characteristics Is it a commercial or residential structure? Has the structure been identified as a target hazard? Does the structure use truss construction? Are there contents, which may create an extreme hazard? Structural condition Fire Factors Location and extent of the fire Estimated time of involvement What are smoke conditions informing us? Where is the fire going? How is the Flow Path affected when entry is made? Firefighting Capabilities Are there enough firefighting personnel on scene to safely mount an offensive attack? Is there an adequate water supply? Can a transitional attack be initiated to reset the fire? Through constant assessment of these factors, the IC will determine if the fire attack should be defensive or offensive. Rules of Engagement for Structural Firefighting Acceptability of Risk 4 1. No building or property is worth the life of a firefighter. 2. All interior firefighting involves an inherent risk. 3. Some risk is acceptable, in a measured and controlled manner. 4. No level of risk is acceptable where there is no potential to save lives or savable property. 5. Firefighters shall not be committed to interior offensive firefighting operations in abandoned or derelict buildings. Risk Assessment 1. All feasible measures shall be taken to limit or avoid risks through risk assessment by a qualified officer. 2. It is the responsibility of the Incident Commander to evaluate the level of risk in every situation. 3. Risk assessment is a continuous process for the entire duration of each incident. 4. If conditions change, and risk increases, change strategy and tactics. 5. No building or property is worth the life of a firefighter. Risk Assessment / Rules of Engagement Firefighter Injury / High Probability of Marginal Probability Low Probability of Life Safety Risk Success of Success Success Low Risk Initiate offensive Initiate offensive Initiate offensive Operations. Continue to Operations. Continue to Operations. Continue to monitor risk factors. monitor risk factors. monitor risk factors. Moderate Risk Initiate offensive Initiate offensive Do not initiate Operations. Continue to Operations. Continue to Offensive operations. monitor risk factors. monitor risk factors. Be Reduce risk to Employ all available prepared to go defensive firefighters and actively risk control options. if risk increases. pursue risk control options. High Risk Initiate offensive Do not initiate Initiate defensive operations only with offensive operations operations only confirmation of that will put realistic potential to firefighters at risk save endangered lives. for injury or fatality. 5 VI. DEFINITIONS Accountability Card/Tag-ID cards/tags given to the IC or his/her designee which are used for accountability of on scene personnel at emergency incidents. AHJ- Acronym for Authority Having Jurisdiction. Apparatus-Fire and rescue service vehicles, including engines, aerials, rescue squads, brush trucks, tenders, EMS vehicles and special service vehicles. Backup Line-An attack hoseline of equal or larger size to the initial attack line. Deployed and charged to provide protection for the initial attack team, additional fire attack capability or exposure coverage as determined by the IC. Base-That location where the primary logistics functions are coordinated and administered(Incident name will be added to the term base, as a radio designation). The Incident Command Post may be co-located with the Base. There is only one base per incident. CAN Report-Acronym for Conditions, Actions and Needs. A format for situational reports designed to keep emergency incident radio communications standard, thorough and clear. CDC-Acronym for Consolidated Dispatch Center. An abbreviated term for Charleston County’s Consolidated Dispatch Center often referred to on the radio as “County.” Certified/Qualified-Documented proof of an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities, and determination of competency through a process identified by the Fire Chief, which may include successful completion of testing, evaluation, or practical exercise components, indicating an individual is qualified to serve at a specific rank. Chief Officer-A fire department officer holding the rank of or acting in the position of Battalion Chief, Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief, Division Chief or Chief of a department. Commercial Structure-Any building which is used primarily for business purposes and has a business license. The exceptions to this definition, for SOG classification purposes, are stand- alone structures of less than 2000 square feet unless special hazards exist. Crew/Company-A group of two or more firefighters, rescuers, or emergency medical services personnel, responding to an incident, staffing a specific vehicle or apparatus. Crew/Company Officer-The officer in charge of a crew or company and a specific vehicle or apparatus. Defensive Fire Attack-The commitment of a fire department’s resources to protect exposures when the fire has progressed to a point where an offensive fire attack is not safe or effective. Fire Control Room-An area located in some high rise buildings and shopping malls, equipped as required by National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard 101. This area may include: 6  Voice fire alarm system panel and controls Fire department two-way telephone communication panel and controls Fire detection, sprinkler valve, water flow, and alarm annunciation panels HVAC and elevator location and operation control panels Emergency generator and fire pump status indicators Controls for stairway door locking systems Controlled-access telephone in public telephone system Flow Path - The course of movement of hot gases between the fire and exhaust openings and the movement of air towards the fire. Flow path can significantly influence fire spread and the hazard presented to occupants and firefighters. High Rise Building-A structure five or more stories in height, on any side. High Rise Kit- A hose pack or bag containing fire hose in preconfigured arrangements along with an assortment of nozzles, appliances and tools used in conjunction with standpipes in multi-story buildings to quickly deploy hose. ICP- Acronym for the incident command post which is that stationary location at which the primary command functions are executed. Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH)-An atmosphere that poses an immediate threat to life, would cause irreversible adverse health effects, or would impair an individual’s ability to escape from a dangerous environment. IC/Command- Acronym for the incident commander. The officer on the scene who is in charge of an incident, and is responsible for making the strategic decisions and assigning other supervisory or functional positions necessary to control an incident. The IC must handle any function or responsibility appropriate to a given incident that has not been delegated to another officer. Incipient Fire - A fire that can be controlled/extinguished without the need for protective clothing or breathing apparatus (OSHA). Initial Attack Team (2-in crew) -A minimum of two personnel who are certified/qualified to participate in interior structure firefighting. These personnel must maintain constant visual and/or voice contact with each other while entering and operating in an IDLH environment. ISO- Acronym for the Incident Safety Officer. The command staff position assigned to monitor the scene for safety hazards or unsafe operations, enforce safety practices and establish a safety plan. Known Life Hazard-A circumstance where responding personnel can hear or see a person in distress, or have received reliable information from “County” or a bystander indicating that a person is in an IDLH atmosphere. LDH- Acronym for Large Diameter Hose. MAYDAY-A special distress call that indicates an individual or team is in extreme danger and that danger is considered life-threatening. 7 Multiple Family/Apartment-Non-high-rise residential structures with four or more units. Offensive Fire Attack-An assertive fire attack that is intended to stop the fire at its current location. Pak-Tracker Receiver-This is the receiver part of a two part electronic firefighter locator system. Some but not all other fire departments have this equipment. Pak Transmitter- Located on SCBAs which are activated as part of the integrated PASS devices. Some, but not all, fire departments have this equipment. PASS Device-Acronym for the Personal Alert Safety System, a signaling unit that is integrated into the Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)-Equipment consisting of helmet, hood, coat, pants, boots, and gloves that comply with NFPA 1971 Standard, Protective Ensemble, Structural Fire Fighting. Personnel-All firefighter/rescuer and emergency medical service providers. Personnel Accountability Report - Also referred to as a "PAR". This involves a roll call of personnel assigned to the incident. The Accountability Officer will perform the roll call. Rapid Intervention Team (RIT)-The third arriving engine and other units, as assigned by the IC, on a structure fire assignment. The RIT should be a minimum of four personnel. Personnel from other units should be used to make up the full RIT. Relay Water Supply-Using two or more pumpers to move water over a long distance, by operating them in series. SCBA-Acronym for Self Contained Breathing Apparatus. Must meet NIOSH certification and NFPA 1981 Standard, Open-Circuit Self Contained Breathing Apparatus for Fire Service, including the integrated PASS device that complies with NFPA 1982 Standard, Personal Alert Safety Systems for Fire Fighters. Side Alpha-This will be the radio designation for the “A” side of a building. This will normally be the address side of the structure. Side Bravo- This will be the radio designation for the “B” side of a building, which will be the next side, as you move clockwise from side “A”. Side Charlie- This will be the radio designation for the “C” side of a building, which will be the next side, as you move clockwise from side “B”. Side Delta- This will be the radio designation for the “D” side of a building, which will be the next side, as you move clockwise from side “C”. Softening of the Structure-Disconnecting utilities, providing means of egress and forcible entry to prepare the structure for entry. 8 Staging Area-That location where incident personnel and equipment are assigned on a three minute available status. Staging: Level 1-Level 1 Staging will relate to temporary locations at an incident where personnel and equipment wait to be assigned. Normally, units directed to Level 1 Staging will position one block from the incident scene and remain with their apparatus until directed otherwise by the incident commander. Staging: Level 2-Level 2 Staging will relate to large, complex incidents requiring an on scene reserve of fire companies, as well as other agencies, and will involve formal staging in an area designated by the Staging Manager. Staging Manager-The fire department member assigned by the IC to manage apparatus, equipment and personnel assigned to staging the staging area. Standby team (2-out crew)-Two personnel who remain outside of the hazard area during the initial entry by a two person initial attack team. The standby team is responsible for maintaining a constant awareness of the number and identity of the two person initial attack team members operating in the hazardous area, their location, function and time of entry. Target Hazard-Any location which poses an unusual threat to the life safety of the public and/or firefighters, which could experience a very high dollar loss or which presents special firefighting considerations. Examples of target hazards include; hospitals, nursing homes, shopping malls, industries, warehouses, tank farms, schools, railroad switching yards, dormitories and high-rise buildings. Team-Two or more personnel who are certified/qualified to participate in interior firefighting. Tender (Tender) -NIMS/ICS designation for apparatus capable of carrying a minimum of 2000 gallons of water. TIC- Acronym for Thermal Imaging Camera Transfer Report – A report given during a formal transfer of command providing the essential information for the continued efficient management of the incident. Transitional Attack – A proven tactic where water is applied to the fire prior to entry, interrupting the fire development and lowering interior temperatures. Colloquially known as “resetting the fire”. Urgent-Term used to communicate that a life threatening situation has developed or to inform members of a serious change in conditions that could affect firefighter safety. Vehicle-Chief Cars and SUVs. Water Shuttle-The hauling of water from a supply source (fill site) to a portable tank (dump site) from which water may be drawn to fight a fire. Primarily used in rural water supply situations. Working Fire Dispatch-Two engines, one aerial (ladder or tower), one chief. 9 10 VII. PROCEDURES Initial Operations A. All personnel who are prepared to work at the scene of a structure fire must wear full PPE and carry hand lights and other tools appropriate for their assigned position. In IDLH atmospheres, an SCBA must be used. B. The requirements of 29 CFR 1910.134, Respiratory Protection Program, may be met by forming a standby team outside as the initial attack team enters a structure where an IDLH atmosphere may exist using the Two-In-Two-Out rule, or by performing exterior functions until the standby team or RIT is operational. C. To meet the IDLH atmosphere entry requirements of 29 CFR 1910.134, Respiratory Protection Program: 1. An initial attack team must be formed before entering an interior structural fire where an IDLH atmosphere exists. 2. A standby team, wearing full PPE, prepared to rescue the initial attack team, must form outside the IDLH atmosphere before the initial attack team enters the structure. The standby team must be equipped with a charged hose line of the same size or larger than the initial attack line. The individual radio designations of the standby team personnel must be announced over the radio prior to entry being made. The initial attack team officer, normally the officer of the first arriving engine, must assign this responsibility to: Certified/Qualified personnel from additional arriving companies. Certified/Qualified personnel on the first arriving engine who exceed minimum staffing (i.e., an engine staffed with four or more personnel) Any other combination of certified/qualified personnel. 3. One of the members of the standby team must maintain contact with the initial attack team visually, verbally, or by radio. 4. The second member of the standby team may be assigned to other activities, but must wear PPE, have SCBA immediately available, and must be able to respond immediately to assist in rescuing the initial attack team, if required. This member must not be assigned to functions that would further endanger the initial attack team if he/she abandoned those operations to assist in rescuing them. 5. If the initial attack team requires assistance/rescue while the standby team is in place, the standby team must inform the IC or “-Dispatch” of the situation and its plan of action. Both standby team members will assist the initial attack team, if it can be done safely. 6. Any company or personnel assigned as the standby team must be prepared to carry out pre-assigned job task in accordance with this SOG. Once it has been relieved by the RIT, the standby team must be prepared to be redeployed by the IC. D. A company arriving at an interior structural fire, where an IDLH atmosphere exists, shall not begin interior operations if a standby team is not available. Before a standby team is in place, the initial crew may prepare the structure for entry or initiate firefighting operations from outside of the IDLH. This crew may perform appropriate exterior operations including, but not limited to: 11  Exposure protection Exterior attack; Stretching attack lines to the boundary of the IDLH atmosphere; or Controlling utilities Pull back-up line. EXCEPTION: If arriving personnel find a known life hazard and immediate action may prevent the loss of life or serious injury, the crew may begin appropriate interior operations without a standby team in place. Once the known life hazard has been resolved, personnel must withdraw until a standby team or RIT has been assembled. E. If the initial arriving company officer determines that initial operations must begin in an IDLH atmosphere before establishing the standby team; he/she must make a radio announcement identifying the companies involved, their mission, and their location in the IDLH atmosphere. “Dispatch” must repeat this announcement to the responding companies and Command Officer. This action is authorized only when a known rescue situation exists and the standby team requirement has not been met. The rationale for abandoning the standby team must be fully documented on the incident report. When interior firefighting operations are significantly delayed because the standby team requirement has not been met, the circumstances must be fully documented on the incident report. F. Transitional Attack. Initial arriving officers should consider the use of the transitional attack tactic prior to entry. Due to the nature of modern fire dynamics, resetting the fire from outside prior to entry has been proven to reduce risk to occupants and firefighters. 12 VIII. SIZE-UP AND INITIAL COMMUNICATION The first fire department company to arrive at the scene shall assume command of the incident. The initial IC shall remain in command until command is transferred or the incident is stabilized and terminated. The radio designation "Command" will be used along with the geographical location of the incident (i.e. "Main Street Command," "Mall Command"). This designation will not change throughout the duration of the incident. The designation of "Command" will remain with the officer in command of the incident throughout the event. A. The first engine company and other appropriate companies will give water supply instructions, by radio, while en route. B. The first arriving company will give an initial size-up, including: 1. The arrival side of the building. The address side of the building will be designated the Alpha side, unless otherwise designated by the IC. 2. The number of floors 3. The type of occupancy 4. Conditions evident on arrival, with associated geographic location, using Incident Command System terminology 5. A request for additional resources (e.g., working fire dispatch, second alarm, etc.) or cancellation of unneeded resources as necessary. 6. If deviating from this SOG, designating other company assignments. C. The first personnel to the side of the building opposite the first arriving company will give a size-up, including: 1. The number of stories on that side of the building 2. Conditions evident with the associated geographic location, using Incident Command System terminology. D. After the initial size-up, the first arriving company will: give a CAN report, advise other companies what the initial actions will be; the point of entry; and indicate the command mode. Companies assigned –to any additional resource request (working fire dispatch, second alarm, etc.) will stage at a predetermined location, unless they are given an assignment by the IC, while enroute. The first arriving unit’s officer, on the greater alarm, will become the staging manager until relieved by a chief officer. The staging manager will be the only person to communicate with the IC, from the staging area. The staging officer’s radio designation will be “Staging.” 13 IX. RESPONSIBILITIES OF COMMAND The IC is responsible for the accomplishment of tactical priorities: 1. Provide for the safety, accountability, and welfare of personnel. 2. Remove endangered occupants and treat the injured. 3. Stabilize the incident and provide for life safety. 4. Conserve property. 5. Resource Management X. COMMAND OPTIONS The responsibility of the first arriving company to assume command of the incident presents several options, depending on the situation. The following command options define the chief officer, company officer or member's direct involvement in tactical activities and the modes of command that may be used. A company officer assuming Command has a choice of modes and degrees of personal involvement in the tactical activities, but continues to be fully responsible for the command functions. The initiative and judgment of the officer are of great importance. The modes identified are guidelines to assist the officer in planning appropriate actions. The actions initiated should conform to the modes of operation described below. A. INVESTIGATIVE MODE: These situations generally require investigation by the initial arriving company. Other companies should stand by and prepare to carry out assignments. The company officer should go with the company to investigate while using a portable radio to command the incident. B. FAST ATTACK MODE: These are situations that need immediate action and that require the company officer's direct involvement. In these situations the company officer goes with the crew to provide the appropriate level of supervision. These incidents include: Offensive fire attacks on incipient fires with minimum smoke. Critical life safety situations such as rescue(s). Any incident where the safety of firefighters is a major concern and where immediate action is needed to stabilize an incident. Obvious working incidents that require further action by the company officer. Transitional attack tactics. Where fast intervention is critical, the use of a portable radio is a must to permit the company officer's involvement in the attack without neglecting command responsibilities. The Fast Attack Mode should not last more than a few minutes and will end with one of the following: The situation is stabilized. The situation is not stabilized. In this case the company officer and crew must withdraw to the exterior and establish a command post, or transfer command to another company or higher ranking officer on the exterior of the building. A crew should NEVER enter a hazardous area without a radio. Command is transferred to a higher ranking officer. When a chief officer is assuming command, the chief officer may opt to return the company officer to 14  his/her crew, or assign him/her to a subordinate position in the command structure. C. COMMAND MODE: Certain incidents, because of their size, complexity, or potential for rapid expansion, require immediate and strong command. In such cases, the initial arriving company officer will establish command at an exterior, safe, effective, and readily identifiable command position until relieved by a higher ranking officer. XI. PASSING COMMAND In certain situations, it may be advantageous for the first arriving company officer to pass command to the next company that is on the scene. This is indicated when the initial commitment of the first arriving company requires a full crew (i.e. high-rise or an immediate rescue situation) and another company is on the scene. Command responsibilities must be retained by the initial company officer until the next officer is on scene and the transfer has been announced by radio. COMMAND SHALL NOT BE PASSED TO AN OFFICER WHO IS NOT ON THE SCENE. Command is not considered passed until the officer receiving acknowledges he has command. When a chief officer arrives on the scene at the same time as the initial arriving company, the chief officer may assume command of the incident. Assumption of command takes place by face-to-face transfer or acknowledged transfer by radio. If a later-arriving company or chief officer is not able to locate or communicate with command after repeated attempts, the company or chief officer will announce assumption of command and initiate whatever actions are necessary to confirm the safety of the missing crew and to continue the overall operation. 15 XII. TRANSFER OF COMMAND Command is transferred to improve the quality of the management of the incident. The following guidelines outline the transfer of command. A. The first company officer or member arriving on the scene will automatically assume command and announce command by radio. B. If more than one company is actively performing functions at an incident, the first arriving chief officer may assume command of the incident following the transfer of command guidelines. C. Later arriving, higher-ranking chief officers should report to the incident command post and may choose to assume command or serve as advisors. D. Procedures for transferring command are known as a Transfer Report; 1. The officer assuming command will communicate with the person being relieved by radio or face-to-face. Face-to face is the preferred method. 2. The person being relieved will provide a transfer report to the officer assuming command with at least the following, o Conditions upon arrival. o Current incident conditions such as the location and extent of a fire, the number and location of entrapments at an accident, chemicals involved and the extent of leakage at a hazardous materials incident, etc. o Progress toward the completion of the tactical objectives. o Safety considerations. o Assignment of operating companies and personnel. o Appraisal of the need for additional resources. 16 XIII. RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURAL FIRE ASSIGNMENTS The standard dispatch for a residential structure fire is four engines, one aerial, one rescue, three chief level officers, one EMS transport unit and law enforcement. All personnel must use the procedures below during structural firefighting operations. All drivers who are not specifically assigned to apparatus operations will assemble with their crew. Fire ground discipline is critical during all incident responses. In addition to the listed responsibilities, company officers must maintain crew integrity, ensure that personnel and apparatus take their assigned positions, and follow this and other applicable policies/guidelines, including. The IC may modify these assignments as necessary, with radio notification. Assignment modifications will be justified in the Incident Report. A. First Arriving Engine Company: First Arriving Engine Company will serve as the Attack Engine and shall initiate the water supply from the most suitable sustained water source. Initiating shall mean: Forward lay from the closest hydrant, beginning a split lay and relaying the location to the second arriving engine, taking your own hydrant (if within 100’ of address) or calling for the second arriving engine to reverse lay (second arriving engine drops supply line at the attack engine and proceeds to the nearest hydrant. First Arriving Engine shall conduct a size-up of the involved structure; provide a Conditions, Actions &Needs (CAN) report; announce the mode of operation; and assure the apparatus is properly positioned, reserving adequate space for the aerial unit to position. Note: It is essential that a water supply is established and maintained from a sustained water source at every working structure fire. It is the responsibility of the first two arriving engines to ensure a patent water supply. A primary and backup hose line will be established & charged prior to crew entering the structure. Normal positioning will be on side Alpha. If positioning elsewhere, notify other responding units. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, tools, hose, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. Company Officer: Provide water supply instructions by radio, while en route to the incident location. On arrival, give reports as required in this SOG. Establish command and announce position over the radio. Perform a 360 of the structure, if possible. If this can’t be achieved visually check as many sides of the structure as possible. Follow the IDLH operations provisions of this SOG. Crew: Advance a hand line to the fire floor and begin fire attack/confinement, with attack line placement to best support the search function. As long as the “2 out” Standby Team is in place with a charged handline of equal or larger size than the attack line.. 17 B. Second Arriving Engine Company: Complete and/or expand upon the water supply as necessary for the first arriving engine and will support the hydrant as necessary. Assists with stretching the initial hose line and stretches a backup line to assume the operations of a Stand-by Team (two in/two out) until relieved by RIT. Back up lines shall be the same size as initial attack lines or larger. All apparatus assigned to water supply will support the hydrant. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, accountability board, tools, hose, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. Company Officer: If command is passed to this officer then he/she will assume and retain command until the first chief officer arrives. This will include establishing an ICP and beginning the accountability procedure. Crew: Advance a hand line of equal or greater size than the initial hand line and back up the first arriving engine as the “2-out” standby team or other assignments as directed by command. C. Third Arriving Engine-RIT Company: Reference Rapid Intervention Team Standard Operating Guideline section. Note: In addition to RIT functions referenced above, RIT will assist with softening of structure. D. Fourth Arriving Engine Company: Proceed to incident scene for support considerations, water supply or other assignments as directed by command. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, tools, hose, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. Company Officer: Check opposite side of structure from first arriving engine and give a CAN report to IC (this will usually be side Charlie) or other duties as assigned by IC. Crew: Begin softening the structure and provide support necessary to conduct operations on the Charlie side. 18 E. First Arriving Rescue Company: Proceed to incident scene for assignment to include search & rescue, softening the structure, or truck company operations. Company Officer: Report to IC for assignment Crew: Follow orders as given by company officer. F. First Arriving Aerial Company: Position apparatus appropriately for operational objectives. Company Officer: Directs the crew on completing ventilation, salvage & overhaul, and other duties as assigned by the IC. Crew: If appropriate divide company into interior and exterior teams consisting of a minimum of 2 firefighters each. Perform ventilation coordinated with the fire attack and IC. If necessary, perform initial forcible entry for the first arriving engine. Provide secondary exit(s) for interior crews with ground and/or aerial ladders on buildings more than one story high. Secure utilities, if possible. Report to the fire floor and team up with the first arriving engine company, to initiate or assist with search and rescue. Begin checking for extension by opening concealed spaces as necessary after the bulk of the fire has been extinguished. Support the fire attack by providing lighting, and perform ventilation, overhaul, and salvage operations. Give Can Reports to command regularly Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, tag line, portable radios, tools, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. G. EMS Apparatus: Position out of the hot zone, assuring the vehicle can leave the scene if necessary. The apparatus and crew will be provided by AHJ over medical responses and will be staffed by at least one certified EMT-P. Crew: Establish an aid station to provide medical care and assist with establishing Rehab. 19 H. Incident Commander (First Arriving Chief Officer) Vehicle: Normally, position on side Alpha, allowing space for the engines or aerials, to implement tactical operations. Preference will be given to commanding from this vehicle. Officer: Establish a stationary incident command post and assume command of the incident. The IC and incident command post shall be readily identifiable with an illuminated green light. Establish divisions and groups as necessary to manage the incident. Ensure that a safety hose line is always available and staffed at all working structure fires. Equipment Wear appropriate identifier vest and have immediate access to full PPE and SCBA. I. Accountability Officer (Second Arriving Battalion Chief) Vehicle Position vehicle to allow access of responding engines, aerials, and other support equipment. Officer: Report to the Incident Commander. Reference the Accountability Guideline section. Note: The IC may assign the second arriving Battalion Chief to the ISO functionif the incident commander deems necessary. J. Safety Officer (Third Arriving Chief Officer) Report to the IC to assume the role of Incident Safety Officer. The duties of the ISO include: Perform a complete 360 of the structure. Remain mobile while monitoring the incident scene. Report the status of conditions, hazards and risk to the IC. Ensure that all personnel are accounted for per Accountability. Suggest safety zones, collapse zones, a hot zone and other designated hazard areas. Evaluate motor vehicle traffic hazards. Monitor radio transmissions to ensure proper and effective communications. Identify the need for assistant ISOs. Ensure that Rehab has been established. Aide (When available): assist with other tasks as needed; includes upstaffing RIT. Equipment: Must wear full PPE with immediate access to SCBA and appropriate identifier vest. 20 XIV. STRUCTURAL FIRE ASSIGNMENTS IN AREAS WITHOUT MUNICIPAL WATER SUPPLY This section addresses structure fires in areas without fire hydrants and in areas with significant geographical challenges to laying an initial supply line. These challenges include: Hydrants in excess of 2000’ from the fire. Fires with poor access (long narrow unpaved roads/driveways), and hose lays that would significantly impede traffic flow – including additional apparatus response. Water source options for Rural Water Operations include: Drafting from hydrants. Drafting from accessible water sources (ponds, swimming pools, etc.) Utilization of TurboDraft devices. Water shuttle from Municipal Water Source. Relay pumping from a hydrant to the fire (extended hose lay.) The standard dispatch for a structure fire, in a known non-hydranted area, is four engines, one aerial, one rescue, one tender, three chief level officers, EMS and law enforcement. For confirmed structure fires (multiple reports, visual etc) an additional tender will be dispatched. All units and personnel not assigned, to a specific task, with this SOG’s standard dispatch, will stage their apparatus appropriately and report to the IC. All personnel must use the guidelines below during structural firefighting operations. All drivers who are not specifically assigned to apparatus operations will assemble with their crew. Fire ground discipline is critical during all incident responses. In addition to the listed responsibilities, company officers must maintain crew integrity, ensure that personnel and apparatus take their assigned positions, and follow this and other applicable policies/guidelines; The IC may modify these assignments as necessary, with radio notification. Assignment modifications will be justified in the Incident Report. NOTE: Companies arriving on a scene where LDH is deployed should move the LDH to the side of the road, driveway, etc., before charging the LDH where feasible. A. First Arriving Engine It is critical that the first arriving engine determine & identify how water will be supplied for the incident. As soon as this is known (possibly while enroute to the incident) the process will be communicated to all additional responding apparatus. Direction should be clear and concise using the term “Rural Water Operations” for incidents where a supply line is not possible. In many instances the first arriving engine may have to proceed into the scene to “recon” the area. This shall be communicated to all incoming apparatus with instructions to stage and await further assignment. Consideration must be given to what additional apparatus will be needed at the scene and how water will be supplied. Factors influencing these decisions include: Distance from a water source, distance from a paved road, tender placement and aerial operations. Company: First Arriving Engine Company will serve as the Attack Engine and shall initiate the water supply from the most suitable sustained water source. Initiating shall mean: Forward lay from the closest hydrant If available, beginning a split lay and relaying the location to the second arriving engine, taking your own hydrant (if within 100’ of address), calling for the second arriving engine to reverse lay (second arriving engine drops supply line at the attack engine and proceeds to the nearest hydrant, or announcing where the static/patent water source is located. 21 First Arriving Engine shall conduct a size-up of the involved structure; provide a Conditions, Actions &Needs (CAN) report; announce the mode of operation; and assure the apparatus is properly positioned, reserving adequate space for the aerial unit to position. Note: It is essential that a water supply is established and maintained from a sustained water source at every working structure fire. It is the responsibility of the first two arriving engines to ensure a patent water supply. A primary and backup hose line will be established & charged prior to crew entering the structure. Normal positioning will be on side Alpha. If positioning elsewhere, notify other responding units. Company Officer: On arrival, give scene size-up and announce water options with clear communications to ALL incoming apparatus with assignments. Establish command and announce position over the radio. Determine and advise whether a tender shuttle or relay operation will be implemented for the water supply. Perform a 360 of the structure, if possible. If this can’t be achieved visually check as many sides of the structure as possible. Don complete P.P.E. and be prepared to be mobile if necessary. Direct other incoming engines and tender to stage as necessary and/or prepare to support the initial attack until a water shuttle or water relay is developed. Crew: Advance a hand line to the fire floor and begin fire attack/confinement actions, with attack line placement to best support the search function. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, tools, hose, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. B. Second Arriving Engine Per directions from Command, this unit may stage for assignment. In most cases it will be needed for additional water (tank) and may be directed to lay a supply line into the scene for the initial staging area. Company: Complete and/or expand upon the water supply as necessary or as directed by first arriving officer. Make personnel available to staff the backup line and/or set up other operational needs as determined by the IC. Leave clear access to the driveway for the first arriving tender and aerial. Company Officer: If command is passed to this officer then he/she will assume and retain command until the first chief officer arrives. This will include establishing an ICP and beginning the accountability procedure. This officer should quickly assess the availability of a water source, e.g., a swimming pool or a pond near the involved structure. If command is not passed this officer should assume the responsibilities of the Water Supply Officer. 22 Crew: Complete and/or expand upon the water supply as needed; advance a hand line of equal or greater size than the initial hand line; back up the first arriving engine or other assignments as directed by command. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, accountability board, tools, hose, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. C. Third Arriving Engine-RIT Third arriving engine will be assigned RIT. Crew and equipment should be removed from the apparatus allowing to become/remain a part of the water supply operation if necessary. Company: Reference: Rapid Intervention Team. Note: In addition to RIT functions referenced above, RIT will assist with softening of structure. D. Fourth Arriving Engine Per direction from Command, this unit may stage for assignment. This unit may be directed to support the water supply with tank water and begin water supply operations as directed. Company: Proceed to incident scene for man power, water supply, or other assignments as directed per command. Company Officer: Check opposite side of structure, from first arriving engine and give a size-up report per this SOG. This will usually be side Charlie. Crew: The crew may be assigned to the Charlie side of the structure and support operations as needed. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, tools, hose, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. E. Tenders Per direction from Command, this unit may stage for assignment. First arriving tender may be used: As a water source at the incident scene. Other apparatus will be used to shuttle water and supply the tender. This unit may also be directed to lay a supply line in to the scene as necessary. To shuttle water from the water source to the scene. Utilization of this apparatus will be determined/directed by Command. Company: Stage appropriately awaiting orders from the water supply officer or incident commander. F. First Arriving Aerial Company: Position apparatus appropriately for operational objectives. 23 Crew: If appropriate divide company into interior and exterior teams consisting of a minimum of 2 firefighters each. Perform ventilation coordinated with the fire attack and IC. If necessary, perform initial forcible entry for the first arriving engine. Provide secondary exit(s) for interior crews with ground and/or aerial ladders on buildings more than one story high. Secure utilities, if possible. Report to the fire floor and team up with the first arriving engine company, to initiate or assist with search and rescue. Begin checking for extension by opening concealed spaces as necessary after the bulk of the fire has been extinguished. Support the fire attack by providing lighting, and perform ventilation, overhaul, and salvage operations. Give Can Reports to command regularly. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, tag lines, tools, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. G. Rescue Company: Proceed to incident scene for assignment to augment the RIT or truck company operations. Company Officer: Report to the IC for assignment. H. EMS Note: The EMS may not be dispatched on the initial call but will respond to all confirmed structure fires. Apparatus: Position out of the hot zone, assuring the vehicle can leave the scene if necessary. The apparatus and crew will be provided by AHJ over medical responses and will be staffed by at least one certified EMT-P. Crew: Establish an aid station to provide medical care and assist with establishing Rehab. 24 I. Incident Commander (First Arriving Chief Officer) Vehicle Normally, position on side Alpha, allowing space for the engines or aerials, to implement tactical operations. Preference will be given to commanding from this vehicle. Officer Establish a stationary incident command post and assume command of the incident. The IC and incident command post shall be readily identifiable with an illuminated green light. Establish divisions and groups as necessary to manage the incident. Ensure that a safety hose line is always available and staffed at all working structure fires. Equipment Wear appropriate identifier vest and have immediate access to full PPE and SCBA. J. Accountability Officer (Second Arriving Battalion Chief) Vehicle: Position vehicle to allow access of responding engines, aerials, and other support equipment. Officer: Reference the Accountability Guideline section. Note: The IC may assign the second arriving Battalion Chief to the ISO function if the incident commander deems necessary. K. Safety Officer (Third Arriving Chief Officer) Vehicle: Position vehicle to allow access of responding engines, aerials, and other support equipment. Officer: Report to the IC to assume the role of Incident Safety Officer. The duties of the ISO include: Perform a complete 360 of the structure. Remain mobile while monitoring the incident scene. Report the status of conditions, hazards and risk to the IC Ensure that all personnel are accounted for per Accountability. Suggest safety zones, collapse zones, a hot zone and other designated hazard areas. Evaluate motor vehicle traffic hazards. Monitor radio transmissions to ensure proper and effective communications. Identify the need for assistant ISOs. Ensure that Rehab has been established. Equipment: Must wear full PPE with immediate access to SCBA and appropriate identifier vest. 25 L. Other Arriving Chief Officers Vehicle: Position vehicle to allow access of responding engines, aerials, and other support equipment. Officer: Report to the IC for positioning assignment. Primary function shall be water supply officer. Equipment: Wear appropriate identifier vest and have immediate access to full PPE and SCBA. 26 XV. MULTIPLE FAMILY/APARTMENT STRUCTURAL FIRE ASSIGNMENTS The standard dispatch for a multiple family/apartment building fire is five engines, two aerials, one rescue, three chief level officers, two EMS transport units and law enforcement. All units and personnel not assigned, to a specific task, with this SOG’s standard dispatch, will stage their apparatus appropriately and report to the IC. All personnel must use the guidelines below during multiple family/apartment building firefighting operations. All drivers who are not specifically assigned to apparatus operations will assemble with their crew. Fire ground discipline is critical during all incident responses. In addition to the listed responsibilities, company officers must maintain crew integrity, ensure that personnel and apparatus take their assigned positions, and follow this and other applicable policies/guidelines. The IC may modify these assignments as necessary, with radio notification. Assignment modifications will be justified in the Incident Report. Note: Due to the population density and proximity of additional apartment units, special consideration shall be given to life safety and exposure protection. Building Access/Use of Knox Box: If a Knox Box is available, company personnel will use the access key to open it, remove one set of keys, and re-lock the Knox Box. Access keys must not be left in the Knox Box, nor may the Knox Box be left open under any circumstances. The first arriving unit officer must assure that all keys have been returned to the Knox Box at the conclusion of the incident. A. First Arriving Engine Company: First Arriving Engine Company will serve as the Attack Engine and shall initiate the water supply from the most suitable sustained water source. Initiating shall mean: Forward lay from the closest hydrant, beginning a split lay and relaying the location to the second arriving engine, taking your own hydrant (if within 100’ of address) or calling for the second arriving engine to reverse lay (second arriving engine drops supply line at the attack engine and proceeds to the nearest hydrant. First Arriving Engine shall conduct a size-up of the involved structure; provide a Conditions, Actions &Needs (CAN) report; announce the mode of operation; and assure the apparatus is properly positioned, reserving adequate space for the aerial unit to position. Note: It is essential that a water supply is established and maintained from a sustained water source at every working structure fire. It is the responsibility of the first two arriving engines to ensure a patent water supply. A primary and backup hose line will be established & charged prior to crew entering the structure. Normal positioning will be on side Alpha. If positioning elsewhere, notify other responding units. Note: If a standpipe system is going to be utilized it must be immediately communicated to all other responding companies. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, tools, hose, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. 27 Company Officer: Provide water supply instructions by radio, while en route to the incident location. On arrival, give reports as required in this SOG. Establish command and announce position over the radio. Perform a 360 of the structure, if possible. If this can’t be achieved visually check as many sides of the structure as possible. Follow the IDLH operations provisions of this SOG. Crew: Advance a hand line to the fire floor and begin fire attack/confinement, with attack line placement to best support the search function. As long as the “2 out” Standby Team is in place with a charged handline of equal or larger size than the attack line. B. Second Arriving Engine Company: Complete and/or expand upon the water supply as necessary for the first arriving engine. All apparatus assigned to water supply will support the hydrant. Stretches a back-up line and assume the operations of a standby team (two-in/two-out) until relieved by the RIT (Third arriving engine). Back-up lines shall be the same size as initial attack lines or larger. Note: If a standpipe is to be used then it will be the second engine’s responsibility to supply it. Note: If a sprinkler connection is available it will be immediately supplied. It will be the responsibility of the second arriving engine to ensure that this task is completed. Company Officer: If command is passed to this officer then he/she will assume and retain command until the first chief officer arrives. This will include establishing an ICP and beginning the accountability procedure. Crew: Advance a hand line of equal or greater size than the initial hand line and back up the first arriving engine as the “2-out” standby team or other assignments as directed by command. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, accountability board, tools, hose, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. C. Third Arriving Engine-RIT Company: Reference: Rapid Intervention Team Standard Operating Guideline section. Note: In addition to RIT functions referenced above, RIT will assist with softening of structure. D. Fourth Arriving Engine 28 Company: Position on the side of structure, opposite the first arriving engine’s position, and establish a water supply. This will usually be side Charlie. If unable to position on opposite side of the building from the first arriving engine, the IC must be notified. Company Officer: Check opposite side of structure from first arriving engine and give a CAN report to IC (this will usually be side Charlie) or other duties as assigned by IC. Note: If sprinkler or standpipe connection is located on this side of the structure, and hasn’t been supplied by the second arriving engine, then the third arriving engine will supply the system(s). If the second arriving engine has already reported to the Charlie Side to supply the system, the third arriving engine will ensure the first arriving engine is supported. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, tools, hose, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. E. Fifth Arriving Engine Company: Identify and be prepared to establish a secondary water source. Company Officer: Report to the IC for assignment. Crew: Perform tasks as assigned by the IC. Equipment: Must wear full PPE with immediate access to SCBA and appropriate tools and equipment. F. First Arriving Rescue Company: Proceed to incident scene for assignment to include search & rescue, softening the structure, or truck company operations. Company Officer: Report to IC for assignment Crew: Follow orders as given by company officer. G. First Arriving Aerial Company: Position apparatus on the side of the structure of the first arriving engine. This will usually be side Alpha. Company Officer: Directs the crew on completing ventilation, salvage & overhaul, and other duties as assigned by the IC. Crew: If appropriate divide company into interior and exterior teams consisting of a minimum of 2 firefighters each. Perform ventilation coordinated with the fire attack and IC. 29  If necessary, perform initial forcible entry for the first arriving engine. Provide secondary exit(s) for interior crews with ground and/or aerial ladders on buildings more than one story high. Secure utilities, if possible. Report to the fire floor and team up with the first arriving engine company, to initiate or assist with search and rescue. Begin checking for extension by opening concealed spaces as necessary after the bulk of the fire has been extinguished. Support the fire attack by providing lighting, and perform ventilation, overhaul, and salvage operations. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, tag line, tools, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. H. Second Arriving Aerial Unit Company: Position apparatus on the opposite side of building from the first arriving aerial, if possible. This will usually be the Charlie side of the structure. Company Officer: Report to the division Charlie supervisor for assignment or provide the Charlie side CAN report if first arriving to the Charlie side. Crew: If appropriate divide company into interior and exterior teams consisting of a minimum of 2 firefighters each. Perform ventilation coordinated with the fire attack and IC. If necessary, perform initial forcible entry for the first due arriving engine. Provide secondary exit(s) for interior crews with ground and/or aerial ladders on buildings more than one story high. Secure utilities, if possible. Report to the fire floor and team up with the first arriving engine company, to initiate or assist with search and rescue. Begin checking for extension by opening concealed spaces as necessary after the bulk of the fire has been extinguished. Support the fire attack by providing lighting, and perform ventilation, overhaul, and salvage operations. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, tag line, tools, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics 30 I. EMS Note: The EMS may not be dispatched on the initial call but will respond to all confirmed structure fires. Apparatus: Position out of the hot zone, assuring the vehicle can leave the scene if necessary. The apparatus and crew will be provided by AHJ over medical responses and will be staffed by at least one certified EMT-P. Crew: Establish an aid station to provide medical care and assist with establishing Rehab. J. Incident Commander (First Arriving Chief Officer) Vehicle: Normally, position on side Alpha, allowing space for the engines or aerials, to implement tactical operations. Preference will be given to commanding from this vehicle. Officer: Establish a stationary incident command post and assume command of the incident. The IC and incident command post shall be readily identifiable with an illuminated green light. Establish divisions and groups as necessary to manage the incident. Ensure that a safety hose line is always available and staffed at all working structure fires. Equipment: Wear appropriate identifier vest and have immediate access to full PPE and SCBA. K. Accountability Officer (Second Arriving Chief Officer) Vehicle: Position vehicle to allow access of responding engines, aerials, and other support equipment. Officer: Reference the Accountability Guideline section. Note: The IC may assign the second arriving Battalion Chief to the ISO function if the incident commander deems necessary. L. Safety Officer (Third Arriving Chief Officer) Report to the IC to assume the role of Incident Safety Officer. The duties of the ISO include: Perform a complete 360 of the structure. Remain mobile while monitoring the incident scene. Report the status of conditions, hazards and risk to the IC Ensure that all personnel are accounted for per Accountability. Suggest safety zones, collapse zones, a hot zone and other designated hazard areas. 31  Evaluate motor vehicle traffic hazards. Monitor radio transmissions to ensure proper and effective communications. Identify the need for assistant ISOs. Ensure that Rehab has been established. Equipment: Must wear full PPE with immediate access to SCBA and appropriate identifier vest. 32 XVI. COMMERCIAL STRUCTURAL FIRE ASSIGNMENTS The standard dispatch for a commercial structure fire is five engines, two aerials, one rescue, three chief level officers, two EMS transport units and law enforcement. All units and personnel not assigned, to a specific task, with this SOG’s standard dispatch, will stage their apparatus appropriately and report to the IC. All personnel must use the guidelines below during commercial structure firefighting operations. All drivers who are not specifically assigned to apparatus operations will assemble with their crew. Fire ground discipline is critical during all incident responses. In addition to the listed responsibilities, company officers must maintain crew integrity, ensure that personnel and apparatus take their assigned positions, and follow this and other applicable policies/guidelines. The IC may modify these assignments as necessary, with radio notification. Assignment modifications will be justified in the Incident Report. Note: All handlines used at a commercial structure fire will have a minimum flow capacity of 250 GPM and the nozzle will be set no lower than 250 GPM. The only exception will be residential occupancies above commercial structures. Building Access/Use of Knox Box: If a Knox Box is available, company personnel will use the access key to open it, remove one set of keys, and re-lock the Knox Box. Access keys must not be left in the Knox Box, nor may the Knox Box be left open under any circumstances. The first arriving unit officer must ensure that all keys have been returned to the Knox Box at the conclusion of the incident. A. First Arriving Engine Company: First Arriving Engine Company will serve as the Attack Engine and shall initiate the water supply from the most suitable sustained water source. Initiating shall mean: Forward lay from the closest hydrant, beginning a split lay and relaying the location to the second arriving engine, taking your own hydrant (if within 100’ of address) or calling for the second arriving engine to reverse lay (second arriving engine drops supply line at the attack engine and proceeds to the nearest hydrant. First Arriving Engine shall conduct a size-up of the involved structure; provide a Conditions, Actions &Needs (CAN) report; announce the mode of operation; and assure the apparatus is properly positioned, reserving adequate space for the aerial unit to position. Note: It is essential that a water supply is established and maintained from a sustained water source at every working structure fire. It is the responsibility of the first two arriving engines to ensure a patent water supply. A primary and backup hose line will be established & charged prior to crew entering the structure. Normal positioning will be on side Alpha. If positioning elsewhere, notify other responding units. 33 Note: If a standpipe system is going to be utilized it must be immediately communicated to all other responding companies. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, tools, hose, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. A primary and secondary hose line will be established & charged prior to crew entering the structure. Company Officer: Provide water supply instructions by radio, while en route to the incident location. On arrival, give reports as required in this SOG. Establish command and announce position over the radio. Perform a 360 of the structure, if possible. If this can’t be achieved visually check as many sides of the structure as possible. Follow the IDLH operations provisions of this SOG. Crew: Advance a 2 ½” hand line to the fire floor and begin fire attack/confinement, with attack line placement to best support the search function. Interior fire attack operations will not begin until water supply is established and the “2 out” Standby Team is in place with a charged handline of equal or larger size than the attack line. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, tools, hose, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. B. Second Arriving Engine Company: Complete and/or expand upon the water supply as necessary for the first arriving engine. All apparatus assigned to water supply will support the hydrant. Stretches a back-up line and assume the operations of a standby team (two-in/two-out) until relieved by the RIT (Third arriving engine). Back-up lines shall be the same size as initial attack lines or larger. Note: If a standpipe is to be used then it will be the second engines responsibility to supply it. Note: If a sprinkler connection is available it will be immediately supplied. It will be the responsibility of the second arriving engine to ensure that this task is completed. Company Officer: If command is passed to this officer then he/she will assume and retain command until the first chief officer arrives. This will include establishing an ICP and beginning the accountability procedure. Crew: Advance a hand line of equal or greater size than the initial hand line and back up the first arriving engine as the “2-out” standby team or other assignments as directed by command. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, accountability board, tools, hose, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. 34 C. Third Arriving Engine-RIT Company: Reference: Rapid Intervention Team Standard Operating Guideline section. Note: In addition to RIT functions referenced above, RIT will assist with softening of structure. D. Fourth Arriving Engine Company: Position on the side of structure, opposite the first arriving engine’s position, and establish a water supply. This will usually be side Charlie. If unable to position on opposite side of the building from the first arriving engine, the IC must be notified. Company Officer: Check opposite side of structure from first arriving engine and give a CAN report to IC (this will usually be side Charlie) or other duties as assigned by IC. Note: If sprinkler or standpipe connection is located on this side of the structure then it will be supplied. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, tools, hose, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. E. Fifth Arriving Engine Company: Identify and be prepared to establish a secondary water source. Company Officer: Report to IC for assignment. F. First Arriving Rescue Company: Proceed to incident scene for assignment to include search & rescue, softening the structure, or truck company operations. Company Officer: Report to IC for assignment Crew: Follow orders as given by company officer. G. First Arriving Aerial Company: Position apparatus on the side of the structure of the first arriving engine. This will usually be side Alpha. 35 Company Officer: Directs the crew on completing ventilation, salvage & overhaul, and other duties as assigned by the IC. Crew: If appropriate divide company into interior and exterior teams consisting of a minimum of 2 firefighters each. Perform ventilation coordinated with the fire attack and IC. If necessary, perform initial forcible entry for the first arriving engine. Provide secondary exit(s) for interior crews with ground and/or aerial ladders on buildings more than one story high. Secure utilities, if possible. Report to the fire floor and team up with the first arriving engine company, to initiate or assist with search and rescue. Begin checking for extension by opening concealed spaces as necessary after the bulk of the fire has been extinguished. Support the fire attack by providing lighting, and perform ventilation, overhaul, and salvage operations. Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, tag line, tools, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. H. Second Arriving Aerial Unit Company: Position apparatus on the opposite side of building from the first arriving aerial, if possible. This will usually be side Charlie. Company Officer: Report to the division Charlie supervisor for assignment or provide the Charlie side CAN report if first arriving to the Charlie side. Crew: If appropriate divide company into interior and exterior teams consisting of a minimum of 2 firefighters each. Perform ventilation coordinated with the fire attack and IC. If necessary, perform initial forcible entry for the engines. Provide secondary exit(s) for interior crews with ground and/or aerial ladders on buildings more than one story high. Secure utilities, if possible. Report to the fire floor and team up with the first arriving engine company, to initiate or assist with search and rescue. Begin checking for extension by opening concealed spaces as necessary after the bulk of the fire has been extinguished. Support the fire attack by providing lighting, and perform ventilation, overhaul, and salvage operations. 36 Equipment: Includes SCBA, TIC, portable radios, tag line, tools, and other equipment appropriate for the structure’s construction and operational tactics. I. EMS Note: The EMS may not be dispatched on the initial call but will respond to all confirmed structure fires. Apparatus: Position out of the hot zone, assuring the vehicle can leave the scene if necessary. The apparatus and crew will be provided by AHJ over medical responses and will be staffed by at least one certified EMT-P. Crew: Establish an aid station to provide medical care and assist with establishing Rehab. J. Incident Commander (First Arriving Chief Officer) Vehicle Normally, position on side Alpha, allowing space for the engines or aerials, to implement tactical operations. Preference will be given to commanding from this vehicle. Officer Establish a stationary incident command post and assume command of the incident. The IC and incident command post shall be readily identifiable with an illuminated green light. Establish divisions and groups as necessary to manage the incident. Ensure that a safety hose line is always available and staffed at all working structure fires. Equipment Wear appropriate identifier vest and have immediate access to full PPE and SCBA. K. Accountability Officer (Second Arriving Battalion Chief) Vehicle Position vehicle to allow access of responding engines, aerials, and other support equipment. Officer: Reference the Accountability Guideline section. Note: The IC may assign the second arriving Battalion Chief to the ISO function if the Fifth Engine Officer is not capable of serving as an ISO. L. Safety Officer (Third Arriving Chief Officer) Report to the IC to assume the role of Incident Safety Officer. The duties of the ISO include: Perform a complete 360 of the structure. Remain mobile while monitoring the incident scene. 37  Report the status of conditions, hazards and risk to the IC Ensure that all personnel are accounted for per Accountability. Suggest safety zones, collapse zones, a hot zone and other designated hazard areas. Evaluate motor vehicle traffic hazards. Monitor radio transmissions to ensure proper and effective communications. Identify the need for assistant ISOs. Ensure that Rehab has been established. Equipment: Must wear full PPE with immediate access to SCBA and appropriate identifier vest. 38 XVII. OPERATIONS AT HIGH RISE STRUCTURE FIRES Scope: This policy shall apply to personnel responding to and operating at the scene of a high rise structure fire. For the purpose of this policy a “high rise” shall be defined as any building five (5) floors or greater. Authority to deviate from this procedure rests with the Incident Commander (IC). General Information: The standard dispatch for a high rise structure fire is five engines, two aerials, one heavy rescue company, an air/light unit, three chief level officers, two EMS transport units, and law enforcement. Due to the nature and potential severity of high rise incidents, additional chief officers may be requested to respond to help fill incident command positions. Any requested resources not assigned with this SOP’s standard dispatch shall stage their apparatus appropriately and report to the IC. All personnel should use the guidelines below when responding to a high rise structure fire. All drivers who are not specifically assigned to apparatus operations will assemble with their crew. Fire ground discipline is critical during all incident responses. Company officers must maintain crew integrity, ensure that personnel and apparatus take their assigned positions, and follow this and other applicable policies/guidelines. The IC may modify assignments as necessary. Modifications must be announced by radio so all units operating are aware of the deviation. Assignment modifications will be justified in the Incident Report. Note: All handlines used at a high-rise fire will have a minimum flow capacity of 250 GPM and the nozzle will be set no lower than 250 GPM. Stairways: Identify, establish, and maintain stairways as safe corridors of operation to be used as main evacuation/escape routes and fire attack points. When using stairways as fire attack points, consider evacuating the upper floors by a different stairway. The first arriving engine company will designate the stairway to be used for fire attack and advise the IC. Additionally, the stairwell with access to the roof shall be noted and relayed to the IC. The IC should identify and communicate both the preferred evacuation route, and the evacuation shelter location based on information from operating companies and preplans. Location Unknown Procedure: If the location of the fire/emergency is unknown or uncertain, the first arriving company will use the stairway to check the building, beginning on the lowest floor and moving upward. PERSONNEL WILL NOT USE ELEVATORS UNDER THIS CONDITION. Elevator Guidelines: Avoid the use of elevators whenever possible. Individuals who are not emergency service providers will not ride elevators under actual or potential fire conditions. Personnel will: 39  Only use elevators in the Fireman’s Service mode. Note the location of the nearest stairwell before entering an elevator. Note the location and method of operation of the emergency stop switch, if available. Wear full PPE and SCBAs with the cylinder valve open and face pieces on, with the regulator in hand for rapid connection. Connect the regulator if the elevator car fails to stop at the midway point. Confine the operation of the elevator to floors between entry level(s) and at least two floors below the fire, until the fire is under control and the IC has suspended this restriction. Elevators will not be used in Independent Service mode under fire conditions. FIRE DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL WILL NOT USE ELEVATORS: If fire, smoke, or heat is detected in the hoist way or elevator shaft or reported in the elevator machine room. If Fireman's Service is unavailable, or cannot be confirmed as operating reliably. On any incident that is located or reported on or below the fifth floor. When Fireman's Service mode is confirmed to be usable, the company officer will: Check the shaft for evidence of fire, smoke, or heat before boarding the elevator Ensure the elevator is not overcrowded. Stop the elevator car at a point midway between the lobby and the reported fire floor to test the Fireman's Service operation, confirm floor orientation, and re- check the elevator shaft for fire, smoke, or heat. Ventilation Guidelines: The ventilation guidelines below apply to personnel during high rise building incidents: Ventilate stairwells that are charged with smoke, using hatches and bulkhead doors. Initially try to ventilate all stairwells; then pressurize those stairwells used for occupant evacuation. Use mechanical ventilation to channel smoke and pressurize stairwells. The IC should consider establishing a ventilation group, and place that group on a separate radio talk group when appropriate. Until specific operational information on the air handling systems and their effects on the smoke and fire is known, the IC should consider shutting down the air handling systems to curtail the spread of fire, smoke, and toxic gases throughout the building. When possible, the IC should consult with the building engineer before shutting down, activating, or reactivating any portion of this system. Notify all Division and Group supervisors before reactivating the system, and carefully monitor the air and smoke within the building. Monitor Interior Staging areas or other operational areas inside the building for possible carbon monoxide accumulation. 40  Recognize that breaking glass to ventilate the upper floors of a high rise building is extremely dangerous, and should be done only as a last resort, after IC approval. Lobby Control: At high rise building fires, this Group is responsible for: Securing the lobby area, and ensuring that all elevators are returned to the lobby area or the designated floor Acquiring information needed by the IC, including: floor plans and approved evacuation plans; type of occupancy; a list of disabled occupants, their names and phone numbers from building engineers and building management; information concerning the HVAC, utilities, mechanical rooms, and fire pumps; any unusual conditions; and items including master keys, window keys, and elevator keys, etc. Interior Staging: At all high rise building fires, the IC should establish an Interior Staging Group two or more floors below the fire floor, but as close to the fire floor as conditions permit. Identify the Interior Staging Group by its floor location. E.g., staging on the seventh floor would be known as “Staging 7.” This Group may be divided into two areas: o one to provide logistical support (e.g., equipment, SCBA re-supply) o one for personnel staging. If an Operations Section is established, the Section Chief may operate from or near this location. A Stairwell Support company may be established to move required equipment up/down the building. The firefighters should be placed at two floor intervals, and each firefighter should not carry equipment more than two floors. If activated, this function will report to the Interior Staging Group Supervisor. Fire Control Room: The IC may assign an officer to the fire control room in buildings so equipped. Personnel assigned to the fire control room are responsible for: Establishing telephone communications with division/groups operating in the building; Providing occupants and/or fire and rescue personnel with special instructions for evacuating endangered areas via a public address system; Assisting with stairway ventilation and pressurization at the direction of the IC and ventilation group; Monitoring various annunciator and control panels, and keeping the IC informed; Resetting and silencing alarms as directed by the IC. Strategic Plan: Life Safety is the primary concern. Personnel must rely upon accurate evaluation of the fire and smoke conditions throughout the structure and quickly assess the need for evacuation. 41  Any relocation of occupants must be coordinated with the fire control effort. The MOST effective tactical approach in the majority of high rise fires is an aggressive fire attack. Immediate Priorities: A second (2nd) alarm shall be transmitted with ANY report of fire or smoke prior to the arrival of fire department units. Additional alarms should be considered upon confirmation of a working fire. Identify the fire floor, fire location, attack, evacuation, and stairwell to the roof. Provide a fire attack with adequate water supply. Provide search and rescue operations for persons in immediate danger; fire floor, floor above, top floor, subsequent floors above the fire floor. Maintain accountability, utilizing division and groups within the ICS as necessary. Establish lobby control. Evaluate 1. Fire floor conditions 2. Fire extension 3. Ventilation needs 4. Occupant status ▪ Immediately threatened ▪ Exposed ▪ Panicked but not endangered ▪ Evacuated and out of danger A. First Arriving Engine Company: Abandon apparatus and position away from the structure, taking into consideration aerial placement and water supply to the standpipe. Company Officer: The company officer should use whatever means possible to identify the fire floor such as an annunciator panel, reports from exiting occupants, and building maintenance. Crew integrity shall be maintained. The entire crew will enter building with appropriate equipment to include: Full PPE including SCBA for each crewmember. Thermal Imager. NOTE: Attack will NOT be made until this piece of equipment is present on the fire floor. Search Rope Portable Radios Hand Light High-Rise/Standpipe Hose Pack High-Rise tool bag Appropriate hand tools 42  Spare SCBA cylinders (one per crew member) Crew shall proceed to a location one floor below the fire to begin assembling the Fire Attack Group. A preliminary reconnaissance of the situation may be performed to provide Command with a CAN report. The First Arriving Engine may initiate fire attack before the Fire Attack Group is assembled to save lives. Action initiated prior to the Fire Attack Group being assembled must be transmitted to Command. B. Second Arriving Engine Company: The engineer establishes a water supply and supplies the standpipe system (FDC). The engineer remains with the apparatus. Company Officer: Will proceed with crew to the floor below the fire to form the Fire Attack Group with the First Arriving Engine and First Arriving Aerial. Crew: Proceed to interior of the building, each member with the following to form the Fire Attack Group. Full PPE including SCBA Thermal imager. (Attack will not occur without a TIC present) Search Rope Portable Radios Hand Lights Keys for access Section of hose from high-rise/standpipe hose pack High-rise bag Appropriate hand tools Spare cylinders (one per crew member) Fire Attack Group: Will ascend to the floor below the fire floor to begin attack. Their identifier will be “Floor # Division Fire Attack” (e.g. “10th Division Fire Attack”). One crewmember will assume control of standpipe connection, connect attack line to standpipe (floor below fire floor), ensure in-line gauge is properly connected (if available) and proper fire flow is maintained. 43 C. Third Arriving Engine-RIT The company shall positions apparatus away from building ensuring effective positioning for aerial apparatus. The company shall enter the building with the appropriate equipment and proceed to the floor below the fire floor to establish the RIT team. Appropriate equipment shall include: Full PPE including SCBA Thermal Imager Search Rope Portable Radios Hand Lights R.I.T. Bag Forcible Entry Tools K-12 Saw EMS kit with Oxygen Spare SCBA cylinders (one per crew member) Reference: Rapid Intervention Team section. D. Fourth Arriving Engine Company: Position apparatus away from the building to ensure effective position for aerial apparatus. Entire crew will enter building with appropriate equipment to include: Full PPE including SCBA Thermal Imager. NOTE: Attack will NOT be made until this piece of equipment is present on the fire floor. Search Rope Portable Radios Hand Light High-Rise/Standpipe Hose Pack High-Rise tool bag Appropriate hand tools Spare SCBA cylinders (one per crew member) Proceed to the floor above the reported fire floor and check for extension. Marry up with the Second Arriving Aerial. Provide a CAN report to Command and continue to monitor conditions or take action as necessary until the fire is under control. Request (if necessary) Division be established when Second Arriving Aerial (or other units) arrive on floor. 44 E. Fifth Arriving Engine-Lobby Control/Command Support The company shall position apparatus away from building ensuring effective positioning for aerial apparatus. Company Officer: shall assume Lobby Control and be responsible for: Ensuring separate fire attack and evacuation stairwells are maintained. Accesses and employs any internal communications system to provide alternative communications. Maintain Accountability System appropriately. Advise building management to evacuate occupants out of building and to a controlled location at least 200’ away from the building. A crewmember assigned by the company officer shall be responsible for: Making contact with building manager and maintenance personnel or building engineer to obtain pertinent information concerning the building to include diagrams (if available); Fire Department pre-plans must also be utilized. Obtain keys necessary to gain access to the fire floor as well as other areas of the building. Accesses and ensures operation of building fire pump if so equipped. Controls building fire alarm system, and considers silencing the fire alarm on the fire floor and others affected to ensure effective communications. Firefighters shall be responsible for: Re-call of ALL building elevators and set to “firefighter service” mode, and designate a fire department elevator operator when such operations are considered safe. Confirms building height identified by elevator floor indicators. If elevators are to be utilized, determine the elevator bank that provides the safest access to the fire area. 45 F. First Arriving Aerial Unit If obvious rescues are needed, positions aerial apparatus to most advantageous position to effect rescue. If rescues are not immediately needed from the exterior of the building the First Arriving Truck/Ladder Company shall enter the building and ascend to the fire floor to perform Recon/Rescue and to assist the Fire Attack Group with suppression efforts. Appropriate equipment shall include: Full PPE including SCBA Thermal Imager Search Rope Portable Radios Hand light Water Can Forcible Entry tools/Rabbit Tool Spare SCBA cylinders (one per crew member) G. Second Arriving Aerial Unit Upon arrival proceed to the rear or “Charlie Side” of the structure and report conditions to Command. If obvious rescues are needed, positions aerial apparatus to most advantageous position to effect rescue or assist in on-going rescue operations. NOTE: If exterior Rescue is a priority on the “Alpha Side” consideration should be given to utilizing 1st Due Truck/Ladder Co. as it could already be in position to affect rescue. If exterior rescues are not immediately needed or on-going, 2nd Arriving Truck/Ladder Company shall proceed to the floor above the fire floor for Recon/Rescue with the Fourth Arriving Engine. Coordinate operations with the Fourth Arriving Engine and decide who will provide reports to Command. Suggest to Command that the floor above be designated a division if Command needs a prompting (e.g., “Tower 105 Bravo to Command, on the ninth floor with Engine 201. Suggest assigning crews as “Division 9” with Tower 105 Bravo as Division Supervisor.”) and report conditions to Command. Equipment shall include: Full PPE including SCBA Thermal Imager Search Rope Portable Radios Hand lights Forcible Entry Tools K-12 Saw Spare SCBA cylinders (one per crew member) 46 H. First Arriving Rescue Crew shall enter the building with the following equipment: Full PPE including SCBA Thermal Imager Search Rope Portable Radios Hand Lights Water Can Forcible Entry Tools Spare SCBA cylinders (one per crew member) Crew shall form the Ventilation Group with their primary responsibility to positive pressurize the stairwells. First priority shall be to pressurize the evacuation stairwell with preference given to the stairwell that provides access to the roof top. Report conditions to Command. I. EMS Note: The EMS may not be dispatched on the initial call but will respond to all confirmed structure fires. Apparatus: Position in cold zone and report to the IC. Crew: Establish an aid station and assist with Rehab. Consideration should be given to deployment to the staging floor. Equipment: If the crew is deployed to the buildings’ interior, all personnel must wear full PPE and carry hand lights. J. First Arriving Chief Officer Vehicle: Normally, position on side Alpha, allowing space for the engines or aerials, to implement tactical operations. Preference will be given to commanding from this vehicle. Officer: Establish a stationary incident command post and assume command of the incident. The IC and incident command post shall be readily identifiable with an i