FOC 5 Communications Final PDF

5.0 - COMMAND FUNCTION #5 – COMMUNICATIONS Major Goal: To initiate, maintain, and control effective incident communications. Effective incident communications provide a practical connection between the three management levels of the organization: strategic, tactical and task. Incident communications...

5.0 - COMMAND FUNCTION #5 – COMMUNICATIONS Major Goal: To initiate, maintain, and control effective incident communications. Effective incident communications provide a practical connection between the three management levels of the organization: strategic, tactical and task. Incident communications is the information “carrier” that the team uses to connect, commit resources, and create effective coordinated action. When things go wrong at an incident, it is common to blame communications. This is a strong indication of how critical communications are to everything that occurs during incident operations. In a very practical sense, the IC’s ability to effectively maintain and control the communication process regulates the IC’s ability to command the operation. To be effective, the IC must orchestrate an ongoing combination of the standard communications activities among the set of participants who are all actively involved with the incident and operate at different levels. Each level operates with its own special set of needs, capabilities, and challenges. These differences create a complex set of operational realities for the entire team. They require a strong, wellpracticed, procedures-based communications plan and positive functional-based relationships among the participants. An effective IC will project a good radio image. Personnel will remain confident with an assured and calm IC. One of the most important characteristics that go along with being an effective IC is how well you use the radio. The IC has a powerful ability to pace the activity of the incident scene simply by the way they talk on the radio. 5.1 - KEEP COMMUNICATIONS SIMPLE: USE PLAIN TEXT We conduct incident operations using plain text communications that are directed toward the completion of the tactical priorities. The use of plain text (common English) is NIMS-compliant, as opposed to 10code signals and other numbering-based systems. Where multiple agencies/disciplines operate together, the participants must all use plain text to share incident information. 5.2 - MIX & MATCH FORMS OF COMMUNICATIONS: FACE-TOFACE/RADIO/COMPUTERS/SOPs Face-to-face communication is the most effective form of communication. It should be the preferred form of communication on the task and tactical levels of the incident site. Face-to-face communications should be used whenever possible in the following circumstances: 1    Company officers communicating with their crewmembers. Company officers communicating with other company officers in their work area. Tactical level supervisors communicating with units assigned to their geographic location. The entire purpose of placing an IC in a command post (CP) is to create the best possible communication environment. In the CP, the IC can more effectively monitor and control radio communications. All members working on the fireground should avoid distracting the IC with face-to-face communications. One of the key responsibilities of the deputy IC is to manage any face-to-face communications with the IC. The tactical and task levels connect with the strategic IC through radio communications. While radio communication does not put water on the fire, in most cases, the overall outcome of the incident is directly connected to the quality of the radio communications among the participants. Because everyone cannot talk on the radio at once, other forms of communications must be used to reduce the overall amount of radio traffic on the hazard zone tactical channel.    Referencing dispatch orders on mobile terminals eliminates the need for dispatch to transmit them over the tactical radio channel. Referencing aerial views on mobile terminals eliminates the need to get arrangement information that can’t be seen from the command post. Comprehensive task, tactical and strategic level SOP’s greatly reduces the time it takes to get companies into action, and it streamlines CAAN reporting. 5.3 – GEAR COMMUNICATIONS TOWARD COMPLETING THE TACTICAL BENCHMARKS: PRIMARY ALL CLEAR, FIRE UNDER CONTROL & LOSS STOPPED Communications should focus on the completion of the tactical priorities and firefighter safety. This will help keep communications short, to the point and effective. It also leaves airtime free for important tactical messages that affect everybody working in the hazard zone. Incident operations are conducted around the completion of the tactical priorities. Incident communications should mirror this simple concept. When the IC assigns companies based on a wellthought-out IAP, everything seems to fall naturally into place, and companies will base their progress reports on their original orders from the IC. Example: “E-56, lay a supply line off Center Street, stretch an attack line to the Delta 1 exposure for a primary search and to check for fire extension. You will be Delta exposure division.” 2 “Command from Delta. We have an all-clear in Delta 1 and a working attic fire. We are applying water and pulling more ceiling. We have ¾ air. We need another company to assist with fire control in the attic space and we are PAR with 3”. It is the IC’s responsibility to coordinate timely CAAN reports. The IC uses CAAN reports to keep the strategy and IAP current and monitor the progress of work. 5.4 – UPGRADE THE FAST ATTACKING COMMAND POSITION (mobile command) AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE Generally, the operation will start out with the first arriving engine company officer. Initial fast attacking IC’s (IC #1) have a narrow window of opportunity to produce clear and concise radio communications before putting themselves in the worst communications position possible (in full PPE operating in a hazard zone). Therefore, it is important to use the very beginning of the event to transmit a complete brief initial report (BIR) and follow-up report before entering the hazard zone. These “two” reports tell other responding units what’s going on at the incident, what the first arriving officer is doing, and where they will be located. A fast attacking IC is able to quickly assign the next 2-3 units to critical areas around the scene, but they are not in position to process lots of information or manage a large amount of resources. The entire response team must understand this difficult communications position and support the IC by properly following all hazard zone SOP’s. In rapidly expanding incidents, command must be transferred (or moved out of the hazard zone) to a later-arriving BC who will operate inside of a stationary, remote command post. Staying in the command post directly connects the IC to the communications process. An effective command post IC would include a responder seated inside their rig (command post); listening to radio traffic (preferably on headphones), talking into a microphone, maintaining a tactical worksheet or Tablet Command, and interacting face-to-face with other members of the command team. 5.5 – LISTEN CRITICALLY: UNDERSTAND COMMUNICATON DIFFICULTIES FROM TOUGH OPERATING POSITIONS We put an IC in a strategic command post (outside the hazard zone, inside a vehicle) so they have an ideal position to send and receive information. Companies operating in the hazard zone are in the worst positions for effective communications. 3 The IC needs to understand there are many hazard zone distractions that can cause communication problems with operating companies. Companies must understand that their portable radios provide the only communications link to the outside world. The command system depends upon coherent communications between the IC and the operating units. All hazard zone transmissions should be carried out on one (1) tactical radio channel. Some incidents may require the use of multiple radio channels in order to support operations outside of the hazard zone (level 2 staging, rehab, safety, planning, logistics, etc.). Each additional channel activated for the incident should have a dedicated person assigned to manage that channel. Ultimately, the IC should only be responsible for the operation of one (1) tactical radio channel while an active hazard zone exists. 5.6 – USE THE ORGANIZATION CHART AS A COMMUNICATIONS FLOW PLAN Dividing the incident scene into Divisions and Groups (D/G) has a positive and profound effect on the communications process. When the IC assigns D/G Supervisor (D/G Supervisor) responsibilities to officers in key tactical positions, it starts to manage their span of control and enhances the entire communications process. These Division & Group Supervisors become the IC’s communication partners by filling in the “unknowns” from other areas of the incident. This allows the IC to make decisions based on the current information. Any time there are two or three or more units working in the same D/G, command should consider assigning one of the units as a non-IDLH Division/Group Supervisor. The IC should consider assigning later arriving BC’s to complex Divisions or Groups. All communications from that area will be from this non-IDLH tactical supervisor to the IC. D/G Supervisor will communicate with their assigned companies over the radio or face-to-face (preferably) depending on their proximity to one another. The D/G Supervisor will communicate with the IC over the tactical channel. As the organization expands, section chiefs (and branch officers if implemented) will use the same communications model. If needed, additional radio channels should be added to keep the command team connected to the incident. The IC should focus solely on the tactical channel and those units operating in the hazard zone. 4 5.7 – ALWAYS MAINTAIN COMMUNICATIONS AVAILABILITY—ANSWER ON THE FIRST CALL Operating companies are in difficult communications positions. The IC should be in the best communications position. An IC working from a command post must focus squarely on the units operating in the hazard zone. This is how we manage strategic-level safety and coordinate the work required to complete the tactical priorities. The IC must always operate the system (build, expand, reinforce) in a way that allows them to stay connected to the companies operating in hazardous positions. As a rule, the IC should answer on the first call. An IC that repeatedly misses communications is not effectively managing communications. 5.8 – UTILIZE THE STANDARD ORDER MODEL TO STRUCTURE COMMUNICATIONS The Order Model outlines the communications steps we follow to ensure messages are always received and understood. It also standardizes how the incident’s participants will exchange two-way radio communications. The order model’s required steps are: 1. When the sender is ready to transmit a message, they call the receiver to determine if they are ready to receive the message; 2. The receiver then acknowledges the sender; 3. When the sender receives the readiness reply, they can transmit the message; 4. The receiver then gives a brief restatement of the message to acknowledge the receipt of the message; and 5. The sender restates the message if misunderstood. Example: “Dispatch from E-15.” “Go ahead E-15.” “E-15 has arrived at 100 Main Street. Establishing Main Street Command. We have a two-story house with light smoke showing. E-15 is investigating.” “Dispatch copies E-15 has arrived at 100 Main Street. Establishing Main Street Command. You have a two-story house with light smoke showing. E-15 is investigating.” Using this order model will significantly decrease the amount of radio traffic on the emergency scene. It will also enhance safety and accountability, while eliminating freelancing and confusion. 5 5.9 – THE SEVEN (7) ROUTINE FIREGROUND COMMUNICATIONS There are seven (7) routine fireground communications:        Brief Initial Report Follow-Up Report Assigning Units Command Transfer CAAN Reporting Roof Reporting Strategic Shift (Changing Strategy) 5.9.1 - Begin and control communications upon arrival with a standard Brief Initial Report The initial IC begins the command, control and communication process with a BIR. This report provides dispatch, and other responders, with a size-up of conditions seen from the initial command position. It also provides an initial situation status report to chiefs still in quarters, non-responding units or staff chiefs who may be listening. The BIR is not an affidavit of absolute accuracy; it’s just a quick snapshot of the incident that provides a “word picture” of what the IC can see from their command position when they first arrive on-scene. The BIR must include the following reporting elements: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Clear Alarm (ensures proper tac channel) Building / Area description Problem description Incident action plan Strategy declaration Resource determination Establish and name command. 1 – Clear the Alarm: Contact dispatch and announce your arrival. This accomplishes several things:     It ensures that you deliver the BIR on the correct channel. If you contact dispatch on the wrong channel, they should immediately direct you to the correct tactical channel. It notifies all other responders you are about to deliver a BIR and establish command. It automatically activates level 1 staging to go into effect following SOPs. It confirms that the incident location (address) is correct. If the dispatched location is not correct, simply state the correct address. 6 After receiving acknowledgement from dispatch, “E-5, Go,” the sender (E5) will begin the BIR with, “Engine 5 has arrived to a small…” 2 – Building / Area description Building description should be stated in this category order: 1. Size 2. Height 3. Occupancy type Building Size: The overall area of a structure under roof should define the size of the structure. We should base our size description on how it relates to the areas we can cover with a 200 ft. handline and the maximum depths that we can safely achieve inside the structure. This should be stated as: 1. 2. 3. 4. Small Medium Large Mega For structures that are between sizes, there is no problem using the terms “small to medium” or “medium to large.” Small: A 200' line can access 100 percent of the fire area/occupancy. This applies to all occupancy types—from houses to warehouses. Medium: A 200' line can access approximately 75 percent of the fire area/occupancy. Medium-sized and larger structures should indicate to the entire response team that there is a much greater chance of getting separated (lost) from your line/crew. It’s also likely we could use more than one entrance point to check all seven sides of the fire area and to enhance firefighter safety. Large: A 200' line can access approximately 50 percent of the fire area/occupancy. These types of structures pose a much greater threat to firefighters. This is why it is so important to embed the safety systems we use to protect ourselves into routine operations. Every level operating on the emergency scene must manage their own safety; no level can outperform unsafe behaviors on any other level. 7 Mega: A 200' line can access 25 percent (or less) of the fire area/occupancy, leaving large areas the structure past the 150ft entry depth rule. These are some of the most dangerous structures we face. Any evidence of working conditions dictates that the entire operation must be slowed down and tightly controlled. Remember, some buildings are meant to burn down. We shouldn’t get in the way. Define structure size based on entry depths Managing air reserve is directly tied to how far we will go into a structure. This is an important safety piece in the system. Because it is so important, we should tie it to how we describe building size. Members working in an IDLH atmosphere are totally dependent on the air they take with them into the hazard zone. We must base our operations around our SCBA’s realistic working times. Company officers must remain aware of their crew’s air levels and must ensure they exit the hazard zone with an air reserve to deal with any sudden or unplanned events while exiting. Communication describing the size of the building should be an important component in the tactical and safety decisions of a later arriving strategic IC (IC#2). An attack line entering through a single point of access cannot cover larger buildings; to be effective you may have to utilize multiple entry points. Building Height: Identifying the height of a structure is very important to all responders. Each additional floor (or story) creates a more complex operation. Stating the structure’s height and the problem’s location gives everybody a good mental picture of what’s really going on. This allows individual units (based on their functional capabilities) to start forecasting the work they will be doing and where they will fit in the IAP.   Use the number of stories above grade to describe the height of a structure. Use the number of sub-levels (basements) to describe the depth below grade of a structure. 8 Occupancy type: typically drives our IAP. Identifying it on the BIR paints a picture to all other responders of the type of situation they’re responding into. Well-known occupancy types should be by called their most common identified name. Examples include:    Mountain View Hospital Wal-Mart Home Depot The Las Vegas Valley Fire Departments uses major building types for training, evaluation, and continuing education of our members. These include single-family residence, apartment, strip mall, large-commercial, low-rise/center hallway, and high-rise buildings. These broad occupancy classifications represent more than 90% of the structural firefighting occupancies we encounter. 3 - Problem description: For the fire service, this usually means we are describing “Fire Conditions”. The following 4 terms are to be used when describing fire conditions:     Nothing Showing Smoke Showing Working Fire Defensive Fire Conditions The term “Working Fire” (Function 1 Deployment) indicates a situation that may require the commitment of most responding companies. This report advises dispatch that the companies will be engaged in tactical activities and will be held at the scene for an extended period of time. The dispatch center will automatically dispatch support units and will monitor radio traffic to anticipate the needs of command. The Location of the problem must also be identified in the BIR or follow-up report. This includes reporting:    What floor the problem is located For longer buildings (apartments, strip malls, etc.) middle or what end (Bravo or Delta) For larger structures – What side of the structure is the problem located Describing the problem and where it is located paints a very good picture of the incident and where subsequent arriving units may fit into the IC’s IAP. It also facilitates a more seamless command transfer. Geographic Landmarks: Properly identifying and naming the different work areas around the incident scene will help eliminate confusion and provide better coordination. 9 Sides of a building will be described as below or as designated by command: The Alpha side of the structure is "usually" the address, street side. There will be many situations where the Alpha side is not clear. In situations where there is any confusion on the incidents landmarks, initial arriving IC's must make it clear where the Alpha side is located. Exposures: Exposures are identified in relation to the main Fire Occupancy. 10 Floors: Are identified by stories above and below ground level. Using divisions, the individual floor will take on the same floor number as the division (floor 2 becomes “Division 2” – sub-level 1 becomes “Basement 1”). 4 – Incident Action Plan: Incident action plans describe our operational plan for completing the tactical priorities. IAP’s should be short and to the point. The initial IAP should include the following:    The tasks of the initial arriving unit (what you want them to do) The location of the tasks (where) The objectives of the tasks (what do want accomplished) Tasks: Some of the standard tasks that should be included in the BIR:       Investigating (nothing showing) Laying a supply line Pulling/stretching/advancing handlines Operating a master stream Performing forcible entry Performing a physical rescue Location of those tasks should include:     What floor will you be operating. What occupancy/exposure will you be operating. What side will you make entry. What side will you be operating for defensive operations. 11 The tasks objectives should center on completing the tactical priorities for the chosen strategy. They are (objective = completion benchmark)    Search/Rescue = Primary and Secondary “All Clear” Fire Control = “Under Control” Loss Control = “Loss Stopped” 5 - Strategy declaration: Overall operational strategy is divided into only two categories: Offensive or Defensive.   Offensive operations are conducted inside a hot zone Defensive operations are conducted outside of the hot zone - in safe locations Declaring the incident strategy up front, as part of the brief initial report will:   Announce to everybody the overall incident strategy. Eliminates any question on where we will be operating on the incident scene (inside or outside the hot zone). Identify the proper command (position) as part of the brief initial report. Two Command Positions:   Mobile “Command” Position o “Investigating” – Reconnaissance o “Fast-Attacking”– Inside the hazard zone Strategic “Command” Position – Stationary, inside of a Command Post (CP). The two command positions create the capability for the initial-arriving company officer to match the initial command action they take to the conditions that are present. 6 - Resource determination: 1st arriving IC’s must match the incidents problems with the resources required to solve the incidents problems. The request for the appropriate amount resources must happen at the beginning of the event, where our window of opportunity has the greatest chance for success. One of the following resource determinations must be made on the Follow-up Report: • • • Cancel the original assignment Hold specified units on the original assignment and cancel the rest Request greater Alarm(s) *Communicate where you would like resources to stage: on scene, Level 1, Level 2. 12 The IC should designate a level 2 staging location, staging channel and advise the tactical channel when requesting greater alarms 7 – Assume and name command:. The absence of an effective IC is the most common reason for poor incident beginnings and unsafe endings. Effective (and coordinated) action is the result of beginning (and ongoing) incident operations with an in place and in charge IC. Use location/occupancy to name command. The radio designation "COMMAND" will be used along with the major cross road, or the specific occupancy name of the incident site (i.e. "Basic Street Command", "UMC Hospital Command"). The designation of "Command" will remain with the IC throughout the duration of the entire incident. Establishing command (Function#2) forces the initial-arriving IC to size up the incident’s critical factors, determine the strategy, formulate an incident action plan and ensure enough resources are en-route to solve the incident problems. 5.9.2 – Follow-Up Reports The brief initial report (BIR) is usually performed from the front seat of an engine company. Once the company officer leaves the apparatus, they will continue their situation evaluation through a 360 of the incident scene if possible. Critical elements discovered during the 360 or other important scene information should be communicated through a follow-up report. This report gives the IC a “last chance” to give clear, concise information before they don full PPE and enter the hazard zone. Follow-Up Reports should include the following information: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Result of 360 (possible basement) Any changes to the IAP Immediate safety concerns Confirm Strategy Identify the Alpha side (if not done in BIR) Resources determination (if not done in BIR) 1 - Result of 360: A 360 should be performed on every structure fire prior making entry. However, the initial arriving IC may not always have the opportunity to conduct a complete 360. It may not be logistically practical to accomplish a full 360 on larger buildings. 13 On critical incidents (high life safety or where a basement is suspected) where the 1st arriving unit can’t perform a 360; the assignment should be given to a subsequent arriving unit to deploy to non-evaluated areas to provide a recon report. Standard 360 reporting elements:  Rescue: The first thing to note is whether there are any immediate rescue concerns. If there are any rescue issues, the IC will need to announce it over the tactical channel and re-adjust their IAP to address the life safety issue(s) present.  Location the fire: (if different from BIR): Before committing hoselines, the IC should get as many views of the incident as possible. The fire location should be included in the follow-up report and the IC should adjust their IAP accordingly.  Identify and control the flow path (if possible): Observe smoke and fire conditions for cues to identify the flow path/air-track. Tactical ventilation requires us to manage the airflow to and from the fire compartment in order to control and suppress the fire as we move our lines into place for cooling and extinguishment.  Identify signs of a vent-limited fire: Vent-limited fires are more probable in modern fuel fires. Officers should look for signs of a vent limited fire during their size-up or recon. Little or no smoke production on arrival to a reported structure fire with the addition of blackened windows are signs of a vent-limited fire in decay. In these situations, a thermal imager can be a helpful tool during an exterior (360) to help find the location of the fire.  Number of stories on the Charlie side: The number of stories from the rear will need to be announced in the follow-up report if the stories don't match up to side Alpha. Example: you have 1 story on the Alpha side. After conducting a 360, you have 1 story on the Charlie side with a walkout basement. This would still be considered a 1-story structure and should be reported as, "We have a walkout basement on the Charlie side".  Basement type and conditions if known: Conduct a 360 to identify the presence/type of a basement and confirm the conditions in the basement prior to making entry. When the 360 identifies/confirms basement involvement, the IC must re-adjust their IAP. 14 2 - Any changes to IAP: Performing a 360 gives the initial IC a view of all sides of the incident. Typically, the IAP won’t change. Occasionally, information discovered during the 360 will require an adjustment to the original plan. Some of those situations would include:     Physical rescue discovered during the 360 Exterior water application (transitional attack) Basement fires Fire located in a different area not seen from the initial evaluation position and entry will be made from a different location 3 - Any immediate safety concerns: This includes:       Potential collapse area Hazardous roof or wall structure Power lines down or arching Gas meter/tank exposed to fire Swimming pools Animals: Large dogs, etc. 4 - Confirm Strategy: There are some instances where the 360 will require a change to the incident’s overall strategy. The overall incident strategy must be re-confirmed as part of the follow-up report. 5 - Identify the Alpha side (if needed): In situations where there is any confusion on the incidents landmarks, initial arriving ICs must make it clear where the Alpha side is located. 6 – Resource determination (if needed): Upon completion of the 360, the IC can address resource needs if it was not completed or addressed in the BIR. 5.9.3 - Assigning Units Incident operations are conducted around the completion of the tactical priorities. Incident communications should mirror this simple concept. This will help keep communications short, to the point and effective. It also maximizes the available free airtime. The IC must structure unit assignments around:    Addressing the incident’s critical factors The completion of the tactical priorities Tactical reserve (On-Deck) 15 When subsequent arriving units arrive to Level 1 staging locations, they will announce that they are staged, i.e., “Engine 57 level 1 staged.” Dispatch will not acknowledge any Level 1 staged units over the tactical channel. Command will then contact staged units and assign them to the incident based on the IAP. Clear orders become the centerpiece of the Incident Action Plan. When assigning Units into operating positions/functions in the hazard zone, the IC may use the following assignment models: 1. Specific Orders (T.L.O) 2. Tactical Standard-based Orders 1 - Specific Orders: Specific orders to Level 1 staged units should be structured in a Task, Location, and Objectives (T.L.O) format:    Tasks Location of the tasks Objectives of the tasks One of the IC’s major responsibilities is to maintain operational control of both the position (location) and function (objectives) of all resources assigned to the hazard zone. Being very specific about the location and the objectives of the tasks that need to be performed goes a long way in helping the IC (and the rest of the team) know where everybody is and what they are doing. “Tasks” Some of the standard tasks that should be included:          Lay a supply line Support a water supply Stretch/advance/pull handlines Operate master stream Support a master-stream operation Perform forcible entry Perform a physical rescue Support work Tactical reserve (On-Deck) 16 “Location” of those tasks should include:      What floor to operate on What occupancy/exposure to operate in What side to make entry on What side to operating on (defensive) Which DG to report to The tasks “Objectives” should center on the completion of the tactical priorities for the chosen strategy (Function 4 Strategy & IAP):  Life Safety (Search/Rescue) = Primary and Secondary “All Clear”  Fire Control (Fire knockdown and all 7 sides verified for any fire extension) = “Under Control”  Loss Control = “Loss Stopped” Examples:  CCFD is providing mutual aid at an apartment fire. “T-17 from command, I want you to spot your apparatus near building 20. Use your ground ladders to go to the roof of building 19. Ventilate over unit #1914 and check the attic for fire extension. You are assigned Roof Division.”  E-43 has just completed a recon at Holiday Inn Express lobby (E-9 staged). “E-9, lay a supply line to the Delta stairs. Stretch a 2 ½ to the second floor; advance to room 211 for search and fire control. You are assigned Division 2.”  E-55 is fighting residential attic fire on 2nd floor of Delta exposure (E-54 staged). “E-54, pull a second line off E-55 to the second floor of the Delta exposure to assist with fire control in the attic.” 2 - Tactical Standard-based Orders: Departments that have trained and developed tactical standards may assign Level I staged units using fewer specific orders when the responsibilities are clearly understood by the officer and crew because of established policy and training. In effect, the order is in the tactical standard. Tactical standards for local building types define the tasks and objectives for assigned locations. Cities with consistent building types throughout the community require fewer specific orders for assignments to cover all the tactical areas of the structure. 17 Example: E-108 is a fast attacking IC (#1) on an offensive strip mall fire. “R-20 staged” …” R-20 you’re IRIT.” “E-51 stage south” …” E-51, pull a line off E-108; you are back-up.” “T-61 approaching” … “T-61, position over the Delta exposures and provide a roof report. You’re roof division. When assigning a company to an established division, the IC must inform the unit being assigned of whom they will report to/work under. The IC must also contact the division supervisor and inform them of the unit being assigned to their location and they are in transit. 5.9.4 - Command Transfers Typically, when the Strategic IC assumes command from a mobile IC, the mobile IC is physically located in the hazard zone so the transfer will take place using a portable radio. Command must be transferred in a standard manner (per SOP’s). The following sequence represents a standard command transfer:          Size-up – Verify that all operating positions match the current incident conditions Announce your arrival on-scene Contact the current IC using the Order Model Verify and document the position and function of all resources assigned by the current IC Request a CAAN Report(s) Announce that you’ll be assuming command (“…assuming Main St. Command”) Announce the overall Incident strategy Announce the CP location Make a resource determination (if needed) Example: “Command from B-15” “B-15 go.” “Battalion 15 has arrived, confirming, E-106 is on the 2nd floor fire apartment. E-51’s 2nd floor Bravo exposure, T-18’s Roof and R-51 is IRIT. If that’s correct give me a CAAN and I will assume command. “That’s correct B-15. We have an all clear and knock down. We do have some extension in the attic. We’re applying water right now with good effect. We have ¾ Air and no NEEDS, we are PAR with 3”. “I copy, you have all-clear, knock down and some attic extension. You have ¾ Air and no needs. I’ll assume command. 18 “B-15’s assuming Main Street command. Remaining in an Offensive Strategy. Command will be located Alpha side in the B15 vehicle.” One of the following resource determinations must be made when transferring command:    Cancel the original assignment Hold specified units on the original assignment and cancel the rest Request greater Alarm(s) *Communicate where you would like resources to stage: on scene, Level 1, Level 2. The IC should designate a level 2 staging location, staging channel and advise the tactical channel when requesting greater alarms. 5.9.5 – CAAN + PAR Reporting CAAN + PAR reporting gives the team a regular, consistent way to report back to the IC on their progress and needs. CAAN + PAR reporting keeps things simple and it delivers the IC the information needed to keep the strategy and IAP current. The CAAN + PAR acronym stands for:      Conditions – Where you are, the conditions, obstacles to completing objectives Actions – Your current actions and any tactical objectives that have been met Air Supply – Report lowest air of crew Needs – Reinforcement, relief, or support (or no Needs) PAR CAAN + PAR reports should be structured around the IC’s assignment and the completion of the tactical priorities. Companies should resist reporting back to command until they have completed their assigned objectives. CAAN + PAR reports should be given when the IC requests. 19 Here is a basic list to choose from when providing a CAAN report to command: Conditions  Your Location  Obstacles to completing objectives  What’s burning  Interior visibility  Smoke conditions  Heat conditions Actions  Fire control progress  Search progress  Checking for extension  Can’t find the fire  All-clear  Loss stopped Air  Needs Report  the  lowest  crew  members  air   Reinforcement Relief Support work Tools or equipment Cover other areas Urgent help “No Needs” IC’s must listen critically to condition reports and properly react to any red flags. A red flag is any piece of information that makes you say to yourself, “Oh no, that could be bad.” Red flags include:             Fire in the attic space Fire in a basement Operating above a fire (basements, floor above the fire) Zero visibility Encountering high heat Reports of, “We can’t find the fire”, beyond the normal discovery time More than one (1) request to back up an attack position Reports that state “knockdown”, but you can still see active fire conditions from the command post Victim(s) located Wind-driven fires Fire in floor space Leaning/collapsing structural components Several red flags are regular pieces of our standard information inventory (like the items listed above). Many assignments the IC makes involve verifying areas that could be a problem. A red flag will not necessarily change the overall incident strategy or IAP, but the IC must identify it and deal with it. 20 NEEDS are critical for the IC. The entire IAP and strategy is based on the conditions and the needs of the units operating in the hazard zone. Units making a CAAN report must end the report with “needs” or “no needs” if there are none. If this information is not conveyed in the initial report, the IC will typically respond to the unit and ask for any needs. When companies include “needs” at the end of their CAAN reports, it simplifies communications. It is each individual firefighter’s responsibility to manage the air they bring with them into the hazard zone. It is the company officer’s responsibility to maintain an awareness of their crew’s air levels and keep the IC informed of their air supply as part of CAAN reporting. Note: CAAN reports should include Simplified Accountability per SNFO SOP 01. 5.9.6 - Roof Reports Truck Companies have the apparatus and equipment (ground ladders/power tools) to access and operate on the roofs of most mid-level structures. These units provide very valuable tactical information to the IC and the rest of the team about what is going on above interior operating units. Truck company officers should try to make the following assessment (size-up) of the roof and this size-up must be transmitted to the IC if there is any significant tactical information to report:          Type of roof if not easily identified from the ground (peaked, flat, bowstrung, etc.) Concentrated loads (HVAC, antennae, photovoltaic etc.) Are smoke/heat vents present and working (commercial roofs) Fire or smoke conditions (and their location on the roof) Location of any firewalls Condition of roof (stable, unstable) Conditions in the attic (if known) Basic blueprint of building if unusual Action being taken Example: “Command from roof, “Go ahead Roof.” “We have a flat built-up roof with a concentrated load near the Charlie wall. There are no smoke vents. We have light smoke coming from vent pipes above the involved occupancy. There is a masonry wall separating the Delta exposure. The roof is stable, PAR with 3.” 21 An important element to convey when giving your initial roof size-up report is the stability of the roof and should people be operating on it or under it. Note: All Ventilation should be coordinated with command / fire attack. Ventilation should not be conducted without an attack team in place with a charged hoseline. After ventilating a roof, the truck company should give a completion report to the IC that includes:     Where you cut The effect on the fire Conditions in the attic space Roof stability 5.9.7 - Strategic Shift   Offensive to Defensive Defensive to Offensive 5.9.7a – Offensive to Defensive Strategic Shift Most often, an initially well-placed offensive strategy solves the incident’s problems. However, there are times when the initial (and sometimes re-enforced) attack efforts are not successful and conditions continue to deteriorate. This requires a switch from an offensive to a defensive strategy. IC’s must be very pessimistic in these types of situations, especially if a “primary all clear” has already been reported. Command must change strategies before the building is disassembling itself due to structural damage. The IC must be the single person to make the defensive decision, NOT the building coming apart. “Emergency Traffic” will be utilized for an Offensive to Defensive strategic shift (change of strategy). The announcement of a change to a defensive strategy will be made as follows:      The IC will announce “Emergency Traffic” over the radio (x 3) Request the Emergency Tones from dispatch Announce to all units on scene: “Shifting to the Defensive Strategy” All Unit’s “Withdraw” or “Abandon” the building All Units report PAR’s upon exiting 22 Example: “Emergency Traffic, Emergency Traffic, Emergency Traffic, all units on the fire scene we will be switching to a defensive strategy. Dispatch sound the Emergency Tones. All units withdraw from the building and report your PAR” “Withdraw” will be defined as: an orderly withdrawal where interior lines and equipment will be withdrawn and repositioned/shut down when changing to a defensive strategy. “Abandon the Building” will be defined as: an emergency retreat where all hoselines and heavy equipment will be left in place and all members in the hazard zone will exit the structure as quickly and as safely as possible. A PAR (Personnel Accountability Report) shall be obtained for all units exiting the hazard zone after any switch from an offensive to a defensive strategy. Commands greatest priority once an offensive to defensive strategic shift has been initiated is the safe exit of all units located in the hazard zone. Level 1 staged units and other units working outside the hazard zone shall maintain radio silence until all PAR’s have been tallied (unless they have emergency traffic). D/G Supervisor should notify command of the status of their personnel (and/or assigned crews) upon exiting the structure. 5.9.7b – Defensive to Offensive Strategic Shift Changing from a defensive to an offensive strategy typically means you arrived to a significant fire but have achieved a successful knockdown. The choice is made to move forward to extinguish the remaining hot spots and begin overhaul. This decision must be made with great caution. Risk to benefit must be determined and an action plan should be clearly communicated before proceeding. The structural integrity of the building must be considered in the planning process. A large fire combined with substantial water application can cause considerable damage to a structure. After achieving a knockdown at a defensive fire, command should stop the operation, develop a plan, and clearly communicate the plan prior to moving forward. The announcement of a change to an offensive strategy will be made as follows:    Announce to all units on scene: “We will be changing to an Offensive Strategy” Conduct an assessment and develop an action plan The IC will make the appropriate assignments 23 5.10 – ADDITIONAL Fireground Communications     Completion Report Exception Report Personal Accountability Report Triage Report 5.10.1 – Completion Report When an assignment, tactical objective, or bench mark is completed, the Officer in charge will make a completion report. Example: “Command this is Roof Division” “Command by” “Roof Division has completed its ventilation hole and all personnel are exiting the Roof. We have PAR with 3, ready for reasignment” “Command copies vertical ventilation complete and your crew is exiting the roof with 3.” 5.10.2 – Exception Report When an assignment, tactical objective or benchmark cannot be accomplished, the Officer in charge will provide exception information. Example: “ Command from E4 with Priority Traffic” “Command by, go ahead with your Priority Traffic” “ Command E4 is unable gain access through the front door due to reinforced metal door” “ E4 is requesting an additional crew with a K12” 5.10.3 – Personnel Accountability Report The Personnel Accountability Report (PAR) involves a roll call of all personnel assigned to crews and Division/Groups that are working in the hot zone. The PAR is a confirmation that all members are accounted for and have an adequate exit air supply. For the Division/Group supervisor, a "PAR" is an accounting for all crewmembers of all companies assigned to his/her Division/Group. For the Company officer, a PAR is an accounting of all crewmembers assigned to his/her company. Reports of PAR's should be conducted face-to-face within the Division/Group or company whenever possible. When all crew members are accounted for, the officer reports to Command the following information: 1. Present assignment or designation 2. Unit name (or Units) 3. The fact that the crew has PAR Example: “Fire Attack, E26 has PAR with 3.” or “Division 1, E28 with R7 and E2 has PAR with 10.” 24 5.10.4 – Triage Report At a motor vehicle accident or MCI, the person assigned initial triage will give a triage report to Command. This report is vital for the IC to request the appropriate resources. This report will include:    The number and severity of patients Is mechanical extrication going to be necessary Which patient goes first 5.11 – RADIO DISCIPLINE When multiple units are assigned to the incident, the tactical channel can quickly become clogged with unnecessary radio traffic. The IC maintains strategic control of the incident operation by controlling the tactical radio channel. The following radio guidelines are to be strictly adhered to when there are units assigned into a hazard zone:    Only communicate information on the tactical channel that pertains to the completion of the tactical priorities and firefighter safety. Always end every CAAN report with a NEED assessment (or with “No Needs”) and PAR’s. Only break into the Order Model with Priority or Emergency Traffic. 5.12 – PRIORITY TRAFFIC Priority traffic is defined as significant needs, findings, red flags or obstacles to completing objectives. Priority traffic reports are critical to the strategic level IC to manage the effective and safe completion of the tactical priorities for the chosen strategy. The following items should be structured as Priority Traffic Reports:         Unable to gain access to an assigned work area Unable to complete an assigned task/tactical objective Need to be reinforced/backed-up to complete an assigned task/tactical objective Victims encountered Roof reports containing significant tactical information (attic fire, unsafe roof) Working concealed space fires not easily controlled by the locating unit Sudden, significant incident events (flashover, back draft, collapse) Anytime the IC directs you to contact them immediately after obtaining a specified piece of information. 25 Units with priority traffic are allowed to break into the order model of routine radio traffic to deliver their priority traffic report. If this happens, once the IC has acknowledged the priority traffic report, they should conclude their radio transmission with the unit whose traffic was interrupted. When contacting the IC with priority traffic, the sender should start the communication with “priority traffic”. Example: “Command from Delta – priority traffic.” Example: “Command from Division 1, priority traffic…We have knock down and a primary all-clear on the 1st floor. We’ve opened up very high ceilings and have a working fire in the 1st floor ceiling space. We need a company with another line and long pike poles to assist opening ceilings and fire control.” Example: “Command from Division 2, priority traffic…We’ve located a victim on the 2nd floor. We’re extricating using the stairs. We do not have an all-clear on the second floor. We need a rescue to meet us on the Alpha side.” 5.13 – EMERGENCY TRAFFIC The “Emergency Traffic” announcement will be utilized to provide immediate notification to all fire ground personnel of an extreme hazard which is either about to occur or has occurred. It will also be utilized for any strategic shift. “Emergency Traffic” will receive the highest communications priority from dispatch, Command and all operating units. To utilize “Emergency Traffic” personnel will repeat “Emergency Traffic” three times and receive confirmation from command prior to providing the critical information. Example: “Emergency Traffic, Emergency Traffic, Emergency Traffic. Command copies emergency traffic go ahead. Command, this is Charlie division, we have a partial collapse of a wall on the Charlie side. Command copies Charlie division has a partial wall collapse on the Charlie side of the structure.” Any member has the authority to utilize the “Emergency Traffic” announcement when it is felt that a notable danger to personnel is apparent; however, considerable discretion should be applied to its use. Emergency Traffic announcements become ineffective if overused. The Incident Commander will utilize “Emergency Traffic” for the notification of change of strategy, withdraw order, abandon the building, or any other significant concern at an incident. 26 Example: “Emergency Traffic, Emergency Traffic, Emergency Traffic. All units this is command with Emergency Traffic. We will be changing from an offensive to a defensive strategy. Dispatch initiate the Emergency Tones. All interior crews withdraw immediately and notify command when you are clear from the building and provide a PAR.” *The air absolutely belongs to any unit giving the “Emergency Traffic” call. Examples of emergency traffic situations:       Power lines down that pose an immediate threat Gas meters that are off gassing or directly exposed to fire Pressurized gas cylinders that are off gassing or directly exposed to fire Unstable or sagging roof or wall structures where collapse is imminent Heavy fire in a truss loft or joist space where collapse is imminent Strategic shift (change of strategy) Emergency traffic should only be used for true emergencies. The improper or over use of emergency traffic at emergency scenes tends to diminish the overall effect it has on the operation. Emergency traffic will receive the highest communications priority from the dispatch center and the IC. All other units operating at the incident site will maintain radio discipline until the IC has cleared the emergency traffic. 5.14 - MAYDAY The radio message “Mayday” is a term to be used only in the event of a lost or trapped firefighter. Any member may use “Mayday” to report a lost firefighter. Any report of a “Mayday” will receive priority radio traffic. *Review SOP SNFO-05 Mayday Procedures, for details of Mayday operations. 5.15 - BENCHMARKS Benchmarks are established to track the progression of the Incident Action Plan and time stamp events. They are also in place to ensure that critical tasks have been completed. The Officer completing the bench mark will report it to Command. There are 10 benchmarks that should be reported. Command will track the completion of benchmarks on the tactical worksheet/Tablet Command. *Benchmarks should be given during an IC driven CAAN report or in a Completion Report 27 5.15.1 - Tactical benchmarks Three of the ten benchmarks are Tactical Benchmarks. These are mandatory points of reevaluation. The tactical benchmarks indicate when a tactical priority (incident priority) has been met. The IC will report tactical benchmarks to dispatch. The three tactical benchmarks include:    Primary All Clear = Life Safety tactical priority has been met Under Control = Incident Stabilization tactical priority has been met Loss Stopped = Property Conservation tactical priority has been met 5.15.1a – Primary All Clear This needs to be reported as soon as the initial life search has been completed. After receiving a “Primary All Clear” the IC must re-evaluate his/her strategy/risk because now all we are saving is property. The first incident priority of life safety has been met. Does the risk still match the value? 5.15.1b – Under Control When knockdown is reported, and all seven sides are verified for any fire extension the IC should report “Under Control”. This informs all crews on scene that the fire is under control and mop up is underway. The IC must re-evaluate risk management again at this point. The second incident priority of incident stabilization has been accomplished. Once the fire is under control the IC should slow operations down and re-evaluate safety. 5.15.1c – Loss Stopped Loss control is complete. The IC will transmit a report of “Loss Stopped” once all of the affected areas have been properly overhauled, salvaged, ventilated and the incident conditions have ceased causing damage to the structure and its contents. 28 5.15.2 – Functional Benchmarks Functional benchmarks are critical task completion reports. The individual completing the benchmark will report it to command (Ideally, in a CAAN or Completion Report). The IC will verify and track functional benchmarks (TWS or TC). Functional benchmarks do not need to be reported to dispatch over the radio.        Water Supply Personnel in the Structure Ventilation in Place Water on the Fire Knockdown Utilities Secured Secondary All Clear Each jurisdiction may have unique functional benchmark reporting requirements. 5.15.2a – Water Supply Established The report of a secured water supply should be made when an un-interrupted water supply has been completed. The officer from the attack engine is responsible to coordinate this task. Command will evaluate if a second water supply will be needed for the incident. 5.15.2b – Personnel in the Structure This benchmark is ideally reported after receiving an assignment. By making this statement everyone in the incident is informed that we have members entering an IDLH atmosphere. This creates a timestamp for tracking air supply and duration of offensive fire attack. If progress is not made within 10-15 minutes the IC needs to strongly re-evaluate the strategy. 5.15.2c – Ventilation in Place This benchmark should be reported once ventilation has been established/controlled. 5.15.2d – Water on the Fire This benchmark should ideally be reported by an IC driven CAAN report. This informs everyone that the fire has been located. In normal circumstances a “Knockdown” report should follow within a few minutes. 29 5.15.2e – Knockdown The report of knockdown indicates the fire has been extinguished in the specific area of the reporting officer. After receiving a knockdown report from an officer in an attack position the IC must still verify there is no other extension in the other areas of the structure (seven sides). For example: The Fire Attack group reports knockdown from the fire apartment. The IC must still verify no extension into the attic, or the exposure apartments prior to reporting the tactical benchmark of “Fire Under Control”. 5.15.2f – Utilities Secured This benchmark is reported when the gas and electric are secured. 5.15.2g – Secondary All Clear A secondary all clear should be made after a thorough search for victims in the structure has been made after the fire is out. Note: Functional benchmarks are implemented to ensure critical tasks are completed at every structure fire. They are jurisdiction specific problems identified through individual department postincident review and follow-up recommendations. 30