Vent-Enter-Isolate-Search Assignment PDF

RIVERSIDE FIRE AUTHORITY FIELD OPERATING GUIDELINES VENT-ENTER-ISOLATE-SEARCH ASSIGNMENT VEIS is potentially the highest level of search tactic risk/danger a crew may encounter. This sear...

RIVERSIDE FIRE AUTHORITY FIELD OPERATING GUIDELINES VENT-ENTER-ISOLATE-SEARCH ASSIGNMENT VEIS is potentially the highest level of search tactic risk/danger a crew may encounter. This search strategy is not recommended in buildings that have positive pressure ventilation or positive pressure attack applied due to fire and smoke products spreading to the opening you are creating. You should consider this search tactic only if your rescue profile during size-up was URGENT (high risk-high reward). PRE-DEPLOYMENT  Minimum crew/company search of two personnel.  Advise the I.C. regarding that you are conducting a VEIS.  Must full wear PPE and SCBA  Acquire your tools and ground ladder (irons, 6’ hook, TIC).  Size up the smoke conditions of the entire structure, the room or compartment that you intend on searching to assist in determining the survivability profile of the room. If the profile is supportive of life, even if marginal, conduct the VEIS (high risk vs. benefit). If smoke conditions are not supportive, do not conduct VEIS tactics. DEPLOYMENT  You will ventilate or open up a small area of a structure such as a bedroom by opening up or breaking a window or door.  Clear the entire window and sash (easy in/easy out)  Check smoke conditions, dirty room or not, the smoke and heat conditions must be considered (clean room = interior door is closed, dirty room = door open).  Before entering the room, the firefighter shall sweep the floor inside the window opening for a victim that may be down on the floor near the window.  Sound the floor. If the floor is stable, enter through the window/opening.  Maintain constant orientation with your entry point and place a 6’ or 8’ pike pole or rubbish hook oriented towards the center of the room with the end of the handle leading to the window or opening.  Proceed immediately to the door and control the door prior to search for or removing victims. Check the hallway outside the doorway with a hasty sweep or with a T.I.C. Once the hallway is cleared, close the door or block it with a mattress to protect you and any potential victims from the fire conditions.  Search the room quickly and exit through the same opening.  One firefighter from the team should remain at the tip of the ladder to provide orientation to the exit point, to watch the overhead for smoke/ heat conditions, maintain situational awareness and to receive a victim if one is found.