Download Operating Procedures from RED BOOK

OPERATING PROCEDURES
DEPARTMENT OF FIRE SERVICE
TOWN OF NORTH BRANFORD
1. GENERAL ...............................................................................................................................................................4
1.1 PROFESSIONALISM/RESPECT ................................................................................................................................4
1.2 CHAIN OF COMMAND ...........................................................................................................................................4
1.3 SEXUAL HARASSMENT .........................................................................................................................................4
1.4 SUBSTANCE ABUSE ..............................................................................................................................................4
1.5 DISCIPLINE POLICY...............................................................................................................................................4
1.6 INCIDENT FORMS .................................................................................................................................................5
1.6A RELEASE OF FORMS ...........................................................................................................................................5
1.7 CISD DEPLOYMENT .............................................................................................................................................5
1.8 FIRE DEPARTMENT EXPLORER RESPONSE AND DUTIES ........................................................................................5
1.9 TARGET HAZARDS AND PRE-PLANS .....................................................................................................................6
2. APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT .............................................................................................................................6
2.1 REMOVAL OF APPARATUS ....................................................................................................................................6
2.2 APPARATUS OUT OF SERVICE ...............................................................................................................................7
2.3 DRIVER TRAINING/APPROVAL ..............................................................................................................................7
2.4 REMOVAL OF DEPARTMENT EQUIPMENT ..............................................................................................................7
2.5 TURNOUT GEAR CLEANING AND REPAIRS ............................................................................................................8
2.6 APPARATUS REPAIRS AND/OR MODIFICATIONS ....................................................................................................8
3. TRAINING ...............................................................................................................................................................8
3.1 DEPARTMENTAL DRILLS.......................................................................................................................................8
3.2 LIVE FIRE TRAINING.............................................................................................................................................8
3.3 MULTIPLE COMPANY DRILLS ...............................................................................................................................8
3.4 CERTIFICATION LEVELS ........................................................................................................................................8
3.5 FIRE COMPANY CAPTAIN TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS LEVELS ......................................................................9
3.5A AMBULANCE CAPTAIN TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION LEVEL ...........................................................................9
3.6 ANNUAL SCBA RECERTIFICATION .......................................................................................................................9
4. INCIDENT RESPONSE .........................................................................................................................................9
4.1 NIGHT COVERAGE ................................................................................................................................................9
4.2 INCIDENT COMMAND .........................................................................................................................................10
4.3 PORTABLE RADIOS .............................................................................................................................................10
4.4 MUTUAL AID/OUT OF DISTRICT RESPONSE ........................................................................................................10
4.5 RADIO TRANSMISSIONS ......................................................................................................................................11
4.6 TURNOUT GEAR USE..........................................................................................................................................11
4.7 PERSONNEL STAGING AREA ............................................................................................................................... 11
4.8 POSITIONING OF APPARATUS ..............................................................................................................................11
4.9 FIRE POLICE RESPONSIBILITIES ...........................................................................................................................12
4.10 USE OF RADIO FREQUENCIES ...........................................................................................................................13
4.11 NATURAL DISASTER AND WEATHER EMERGENCY RESPONSE ..........................................................................13
4.12 EMS PROTOCOLS .............................................................................................................................................13
4.13 USE OF WARNING LIGHTS & SIRENS ................................................................................................................14
4.14 RESPONSE TO HAZ-MAT INCIDENTS ................................................................................................................14
4.15 PROPANE INCIDENTS INVOLVING GAS GRILLES ................................................................................................ 15
4.16 INCIDENT TACTICAL PRIORITIES .......................................................................................................................15
4.17 ON-SCENE SIZE-UP REPORT.............................................................................................................................15
1
4.18 FIRE ATTACK CONSIDERATIONS .......................................................................................................................16
4.19 UNITS IN SERVICE ............................................................................................................................................17
4.20 LAST UNIT CLEARING ......................................................................................................................................17
4.21 MASS CASUALTY INCIDENT RESPONSE ............................................................................................................17
5. SAFETY .................................................................................................................................................................17
5.1 ID TAGS .............................................................................................................................................................17
5.2 ACCOUNTABILITY ..............................................................................................................................................17
5.3 SAFETY OFFICERS ..............................................................................................................................................17
5.4 EVACUATION SIGNAL .........................................................................................................................................18
5.5 ACCOUNTABILITY OFFICER ................................................................................................................................ 18
5.6 SCENE SAFETY CONCERNS .................................................................................................................................18
5.7 PERSONNEL INJURY REPORTS ............................................................................................................................18
5.8 INFECTION CONTROL..........................................................................................................................................18
5.9 REHABILITATION ................................................................................................................................................19
5.10 RAPID INTERVENTION (RIT) ............................................................................................................................19
APPENDIX A .............................................................................................................................................................20
SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY .....................................................................................................................................20
APPENDIX B .............................................................................................................................................................26
STATEMENT OF PATIENT CONFIDENTIALITY .............................................................................................................26
APPENDIX C .............................................................................................................................................................27
MASS CASUALTY INCIDENTS ...................................................................................................................................27
APPENDIX D .............................................................................................................................................................28
REHABILITATION PROTOCOLS/PROCEDURES ............................................................................................................28
APPENDIX E .............................................................................................................................................................29
RAPID INTERVENTION TEAM STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES ...........................................................................29
2
The following operating procedures are to be implemented immediately and will individually remain
in effect until such time as a Departmental Standard Operating Procedure or Standard Operating
Guideline is adopted related to that individual Interim Operating Procedure.
All questions of interpretation of these Interim Operating Procedures shall be directed to the Chief or
his designee. The Chief reserves the right to modify, amend or otherwise change these Interim
Operating Procedures at any time and will notify company officers in writing of such changes.
The term “chief officers” refers to the Fire Chief, District #1 Chief and District #2 Chief. The term
company officers refers to all company line officers.
3
1. General
1.1 Professionalism/Respect
The basic foundation upon which all of our Department actions should be based are the tenants of
professionalism and respect. Professionalism in the way we conduct ourselves at emergency scenes,
at the station and in public. Respect shall be shown to our customers, fellow firefighters, citizens of
the Town and our officers. Professionalism and respect should guide everything we do as fire and
EMS responders.
1.2 Chain of Command
All members will be expected to follow the chain of command. As such, company members should
communicate with their company officers, who will communicate with the chief officers. Also, chief
officers will work through company officers and refrain from directing the efforts of the company
members, except where the situation warrants a different action. Nothing prohibits a company
member from contacting a chief officer if he/she believes the situation warrants such action.
1.3 Sexual Harassment
It is the policy of our Department not to condone or allow any form of sexual harassment. Should
any member feel they are being sexually harassed, they may contact any chief officer immediately,
without recourse.
1.4 Substance Abuse
Please refer to Appendix A Substance Abuse Policy.
1.5 Discipline Policy
There shall be a progressive discipline policy available for the use of the Departmental and company
line officers. The progressive discipline steps shall be as follows:
1. Oral Reprimand - Used for first time minor offenses or situations, which do not
require a formal discipline procedure. The individual providing the oral
reprimand shall generate a written note of the date and circumstances of the
infraction and reprimand.
2. Written Reprimand - Used after an oral reprimands has been issued to an
individual or a first time offense which is deemed to require a written record.
Written reprimands shall be provided to the individual, the company personnel
file and the Departmental personnel file located in the Chief's office.
3. Suspension - Used after a written reprimands has been issued to an individual or
a first time offense which is deemed serious enough to warrant a suspension.
4
Only chief officers have the authority to issue suspensions. A copy of the
suspension notice shall be provided to all company Captains.
4. Termination - Issued after an individual has been suspended more than once for
the same offense or for a first time offense which is deemed serious enough to
warrant termination of membership in the Department. Only the Chief has the
authority to terminate a member.
1.6 Incident Forms
The standard Department form used for documenting fire incidents shall be used. The completed
forms shall be left for the Fire Marshal. It shall be the responsibility of the senior company officer
on-scene to complete this form on a timely basis. It shall not be his or her responsibility to perform
any fire investigation procedures.
EMSIRS forms should be completed by the highest trained medically certified person who actively
contributed to the treatment of the patient.
Company officers shall assure that all required forms are completed accurately and within a
reasonable time after completion of the incident.
1.6a Release of Forms
EMSIRS forms or any forms relating to patient care may only be released to the patient, or next of
kin if patient is deceased, only after a written request is received by the Fire Chief. If the patient’s
legal counsel requests documentation, a written facsimile of the patient’s signature MUST
accompany the written request of counsel.
Request for reports relating to fires (homeowners and/or their insurance companies) must be
addressed to the Fire Marshal. If any fire report is requested for litigation purposes, the request must
be addressed to the Fire Chief. (See Appendix A for Statement of Patient’s Confidentiality)
1.7 CISD Deployment
It shall be the responsibility of the Incident Commander or any chief officer to determine if critical
incident stress debriefing (CISD) is required at an incident. Should he or she determine that it is
warranted, the CISD team should be deployed through the proper channels. If ordered by a chief
officer, all personnel shall be required to attend CISD sessions.
Each member shall have to right to request a CISD, even if not deemed necessary by a chief officer.
Such member should contact his/her captain to initiate the process.
1.8 Fire Department Explorer Response and Duties
In addition to the guidelines provided by the Boy Scouts of America, Fire Department Explorers
shall be governed by the following rules:
5
1. Explorers shall not be allowed to attend bomb scare incidents, Police assistance calls,
hazardous materials incidents and other similar calls.
2. Explorers may not respond to incidents after 9:00 p.m. on evenings before school days or
after 8:00 a.m. on school days. On evenings when there is no school the following
day, they may respond after 9:00 p.m. only if an approval form is signed by their
parents and on file with the applicable company Captain.
3. Advisors are to be designated from the applicable fire companies. Those individuals will
accept primary responsibility for the supervision of the Explorers.
4. Explorers are not allowed to climb or be on ladders in above eight (8) feet per OSHA
guidelines. Nor are they allowed to enter any structure or potentially dangerous
atmosphere under training or actual incident operations.
5. In certain instances, Explorers may be allowed to participate in certain training evolutions
if they are approved in advance by the Training Officer or a chief officer and an
authorization form from their parent or guardian has been received for that specific
training exercise.
6. Explorers who have had done the following may attend medical calls:
a. Completed bloodborne pathogens and universal precautions training.
b. Passed a State certified Medical Response Technician (MRT) course.
c. Received Hepatitis shots.
d. Had a parent attend a Department information session and sign the Department
parental consent form.
7. Explorers are required to report to the apparatus closest to the incident upon their arrival
at any scene. After the officers or driver has completed their initial on-scene tasks,
the Explorer shall notify them of their availability. At that time, the ranking officer
or senior driver can choose to utilize the Explorer, or not. Explorers are not to
initiate any on-scene activities without direction form an officer or the senior driver.
1.9 Target Hazards and Pre-Plans
Each fire company shall identify all target hazards within their response district and include them on
a list. That listing should be made available to the Chief and District Chiefs. Starting with the most
critical target hazards, two (2) per month shall have pre-plans developed. Once a pre-plan is drafted,
it shall be reviewed with the appropriate District Chief, modified as necessary and submitted to the
Chief for approval.
2. Apparatus & Equipment
2.1 Removal of Apparatus
No apparatus shall be taken out of its station for purposes other than an emergency response or a
regularly scheduled company drill without the prior approval of a chief officer. The on-duty
6
ambulance may be removed from it’s station without such approval, however, a log must be
maintained at the ambulance station identifying the date, time out, time in, reason for leaving the
station, etc. Also, whenever the on-duty ambulance leaves the station, Dispatch must be contacted
by telephone upon leaving and returning to the station.
If a call is received while the on-duty ambulance is out of station, upon signing on, the ambulance
must indicate where it is responding from.
If an off-duty ambulance is to be taken out of the station to fuel the vehicle, pick up equipment at a
hospital, transport a Department member or a member of their family to or from a healthcare facility,
etc. the Chief or a District Chief must contacted for approval.
2.2 Apparatus Out of Service
Whenever it is deemed necessary for any apparatus to be taken out of service, the applicable District
Chief and/or Chief are to be notified prior to the vehicle being taken out of service along with the
Engineer. Approval to have the vehicle repaired by an outside facility is required. Such a
determination of which repair facility to use shall be made in advance through discussion with the
Chief or a District Chief.
2.3 Driver Training/Approval
All driver training is to be documented on the Departmental Driver Training Documentation Form
provided by the Chief/District Chief. At such time as the driver/candidate is deemed ready for testing
by the company officers, he/she will be given the standard written test for that apparatus and achieve
a grade of at least 75%. Upon successful completion of that process, a practical skill evaluation is to
be scheduled with the Company Captain and District Chief in attendance. That practical skills
review should include driving, pump and equipment operations skills evaluation. The District Chief
shall have responsibility for determination of whether the driver/candidate receives an overall
passing grade and sign the form noting a passing or failing grade. All written tests and driver
approval forms shall be included in the respective member’s personnel file and copies forwarded to
the Chief's office for filing with Departmental records.
2.4 Removal of Department Equipment
No Department equipment should be removed from apparatus for personal use or other purposes
without the notification and consent of the Chief. The exception to this shall be removal from
service due to mechanical breakdown, repair or maintenance requirements, which has been addressed
in a separate Interim Operating Procedure.
Equipment may be moved from one ambulance to another or may be removed for use at a sports
stand-by as long as an officer of Company 4 has given approval and the ambulance is still
sufficiently equipped to remain in service and meet state guidelines.
7
2.5 Turnout Gear Cleaning and Repairs
It shall be the responsibility of the company officers to assure that members have reasonably clean
turnout gear, which is free from tears or significant defects. Turnouts shall be cleaned using the
vendor chosen by the Department and the prescribed procedures. Turnout gear in need of cleaning
and/or repairs shall be forwarded to a chief officer for processing.
2.6 Apparatus Repairs and/or Modifications
No repairs or alterations of apparatus, other vehicles or equipment shall be performed without the
prior approval of a chief officer. Only the designated Engineers, Assistant Engineers and outside
repair facilities shall make repair and/or modifications to apparatus and equipment included on the
apparatus. All Engineers and Assistant Engineers shall be designated by the Chief.
3. Training
3.1 Departmental Drills
At least one drill per month will be provided by the departmental officers. All company officers and
members will be expected to attend and participate in such drills. There shall also be at least one
Departmental medical drill provided per month.
3.2 Live Fire Training
All training sessions where live fire will be present must be approved in advance by a chief officer.
All approved sessions must be conducted in accordance with NFPA 1403 or NFPA 1406.
3.3 Multiple Company Drills
All multiple company-training sessions are to be coordinated with the chief officers.
3.4 Certification Levels
Fire company officers and members will be encouraged to obtain Firefighter I certification initially
and continue on the certification process throughout their career with the Department. NFPA 1500,
OSHA and other sources specifically state that company officers shall have demonstrated and
evidence of training at higher levels than those they supervise. As such, company officers should
strive to be a minimum of Firefighter II in the future and consider Fire Officer I certification in the
long term. Fire company members who wish to participate in medical emergency calls must also
hold a valid MRT certification from the State of Connecticut.
8
Ambulance company members, as a minimum, are required to hold a State certification as an MRT.
Ambulance members are strongly encouraged to achieve State EMT certification within one year of
becoming a member of the Department.
3.5 Fire Company Captain Training and Certifications Levels
Fire Company Captains will be strongly encouraged to pursue Firefighter II, Fire Instructor I and Fire
Officer I certification levels. Company Captains should be the first to pursue these higher levels of
certifications. In addition, they will be provided with the opportunity to attend a Strategy and Tactics
course, which will assist them in the event of an Incident Command assignment. One of the most
significant reasons for the higher certifications for officers is that OSHA requires those who
supervise emergency responders to be trained (and certified) to a higher level than those they
supervise.
3.5a Ambulance Captain Training and Certification Level
Ambulance Company Captain must be a state certified Emergency Medical Technician-Basic and be
certified in the use of the automatic external defibrillators (AED). The Captain should be the first to
pursue higher levels of certifications. One of the most significant reasons for the higher
certifications for officers is that OSHA requires those who supervise emergency responders to be
trained (and certified) to a higher level than those they supervise.
3.6 Annual SCBA Recertification
All firefighters, apparatus drivers and fire company officers who do or could engage in interior fire
operations or hazardous materials incidents must be recertified in the use of SCBA on an annual
basis. This process shall be administered by the company Captains, with the supervision of the chief
officers. The procedure for annual recertification shall include:
1. Review of respiratory hazards.
2. Review of the operating principles of and parts of SCBA in use.
3. Successful completion of a 60 second donning drill.
4. Successful completion of a SCBA maze of no less than 150 feet, under smoke simulation
conditions .
5. Complete review of the basic disassembly, cleaning and proper reassembly of SCBA.
6. SCBA inspection and refilling procedures.
4. Incident Response
4.1 Night Coverage
The fire company officers shall develop a schedule whereby at least one officer is available to
9
respond to medical and/or routine calls each night. This will provide for at least one company officer
at all incidents and will limit the number of officers who have to respond to routine and EMS calls
during the night. It would be advisable for EMS personnel to be scheduled in the same way for
nighttime home medical emergency calls. Scheduling of night ambulance coverage will be handled
by the Duty Supervisor and/or his/her designee of Company 4
4.2 Incident Command
Upon arrival at an emergency scene, the first arriving fire unit shall provide a brief size-up/on-scene
report. It should include the following:
The first arriving unit shall go into one of the following modes:
Attack/Mitigation - Here the first arriving individuals and units begin intervention into the
emergency situation. Command is passed to the next arriving unit or chief officer.
Investigation - The first arriving unit and personnel further investigate/evaluate the situation
and command is passed to the next arriving unit or chief officer.
Command - The first arriving unit and individuals initiate ICS, establish command and
supervise the incident. The Incident Commander is expressly prohibited from taking
any active part in the incident mitigation and retains full responsibility for the
actions taken and any positions not delegated.
If the Incident Commander is not a company officer, he/she must offer to transfer
command to any company officer upon his/her arrival. In no instances should noncertified firefighters command fire incidents nor should non-Haz-Mat Operations
certified individuals command hazardous materials incidents.
4.3 Portable Radios
The primary purpose of portable radios is for use by company officers either outside or inside of the
structure or incident. As such, any non-company officer in possession of a portable radio shall offer
it to a company officer upon arrival. When entering a structure of incident, a company officer should
accompany each entry team. The company officer shall carry the portable radio for the entry team
and maintain accountability for his/her entry team. In the absence of a company officer, the most
senior firefighter on the entry crew shall be in possession of the portable radio.
4.4 Mutual Aid/Out of District Response
Whenever fire apparatus is dispatched to respond to an incident outside of the district, all firefighters
shall report to their station, unless they are in close vicinity of the incident or another fire station.
Upon arrival, qualified individuals will ride the apparatus to the incident along with an appropriate
number of company officers. No individuals shall respond directly to the incident without being
instructed to do so by a company or chief officer.
10
Whenever an ambulance is requested for mutual aid by a surrounding town and/or C-MED, the on
duty/call-in crew shall respond.
4.5 Radio Transmissions
All radio transmissions are to be performed using a clear voice, concise wording and the proper radio
signals and etiquette. Only the designated senior officer cars shall use transmissions such as
“responding” and “on-scene”.
4.6 Turnout Gear Use
While there is a tendency to become complacent about wearing full turnout gear during the summer
months and/or at incidents which do not “appear” to require it, all fire personnel operating on
incident scenes, other than home emergencies shall wear full turnout gear. Should the Incident
Commander choose to do so, he or she may allow personnel to remove some of their personal
protective clothing.
4.7 Personnel Staging Area
Upon arrival at an incident, all arriving personnel should report to the personnel staging area for
assignment. In no circumstances should personnel arrive and immediately begin operations which
they believe are required without first being assigned. This procedure is designed to limit “free
lancing” at incident by well meaning individuals. The personnel staging area shall be the designated
by the Incident Commander. In general, it will be adjacent to the apparatus closest to the incident
scene.
4.8 Positioning of Apparatus
The proper positioning of apparatus at incidents can and will have an impact on the effectiveness of
the mitigation of the incident. Except when overhead power lines pose a significant safety concern,
apparatus shall be parked on the same side of the street as the incident. Below are typical placement
guidelines for various types of incidents. Weather conditions, terrain, traffic and the stage or
intensity of the incident shall be considered in the placement of any apparatus.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Engine - Pull approximately 100 feet beyond the accident and prepare to provide fire and spill
protection, stabilize vehicles and disconnect power to the vehicle.
Rescue - Locate a safe distance from the accident, prepare to stabilize patients, provide adequate
scene lighting, extricate patients and coordinate ambulance response with Control and/or CMED.
Ambulance - Locate as per instructions from the Incident Commander or rescue personnel.
Structure Fire/Alarm Sounding
11
Engine - Position the apparatus, allowing a view of three (3) sides upon arrival while allowing
sufficient room for Tower 1 to set up and operate. Prepare to investigate, initiate fire attack mode or
perform other engine company operations.
Tower Ladder - Pull directly in front of the building and in position, should the aerial device need to
be deployed. The Tower ladder crew should prepare to initiate forcible entry, ventilation and/or
other ladder company operations.
Tanker - In a non-hydranted area, proceed immediately to the area of the engine and prepare to either
attach a supply line or initiate a tanker shuttle with or without the use of the portable tanks.
Rescue and Ambulance - Locate the vehicle in the vicinity of the incident, but not in an area where
the operation of the other on-scene operating units will be adversely affected. Personnel should
report to the Incident Commander.
Second Engine - Contact the Incident Commander, Water Supply Officer or the first arriving engine
for instructions prior to arrival.
Second Ambulance - Stage approximately one block from the incident and walk up to the Command
Post to receive instructions. At a confirmed structure fire, the ambulance crew will be responsible
for the rehabilitation area and rehabilitation procedures.
Other Incidents
It shall be the responsibility of the Incident Commander, or the apparatus drivers in the event that
Incident Command has not been established, to properly position the apparatus in such a way as to
provide for the most effective and safe on-scene operations.
4.9 Fire Police Responsibilities
The main responsibilities of the Fire Police at incident scenes shall be traffic control and securing the
scene from unauthorized entry. The following general guidelines shall apply to Fire Police:
There shall be a Captain of the Fire Police designated by the Chief to supervise the activities of all of
the Fire Police.
All Fire Police shall attend the State of Connecticut Fire Police training session and provide evidence
thereof for the Department files.
Fire Police shall work closely with Town of North Branford Police officers to ensure safe scene
operations with only the necessary impact on traffic flow. In all instances, incident scene safety
concerns will take priority over traffic flow.
All Fire Police shall wear the issued protective clothing and utilize the supplied warning devices
whenever they are directing traffic.
When operating on incident scenes, Fire Police shall communicate with each other utilizing radio
channel TAC-4, unless that is being actively used for incident mitigation purposes.
Pursuant to applicable State Statutes, Fire Police can be requested to assist the Police Department
when the Fire Department has not been dispatched. All such requests for assistance shall be
authorized by a chief officer.
12
4.10 Use of Radio Frequencies
The radio frequencies available are TAC-1, TAC-2 and TAC-3. These should be used under the
following conditions:
TAC-1 This shall be the main operating frequency of the Department and all radios
should be returned to TAC-1 when returned to the apparatus.
TAC-2 This frequency does not engage the repeaters in our radio system. It should
only be used when short range communication is required.
TAC-3 This is considered the fireground frequency. It should be used for incident
scene communications between operating units, but only after the Incident
Commander gives the order for all units to transfer to TAC-3. When TAC-3 is
utilized for incident scene communications, apparatus radios shall remain on TAC-1.
TAC-4 The Inter City channel shall be used for Fire Police are to communicate,
unless notified by a chief officer or the Incident Commander to do differently.
4.11 Natural Disaster and Weather Emergency Response
A common sense approach is expected to be maintained for response during weather emergencies
and natural disasters. All companies are encouraged to have their members stand-by during such
times, although this should not be a requirement. In addition, the fire stations should serve as a
temporary refuge for Town residents displaced by the weather or disaster until a school or other
Town facility can be opened for their use.
4.12 EMS Protocols
The EMS protocols as defined by Sponsor Hospital and/or OEMS, shall be followed. (See Appendix
B for State of Connecticut Basic Life Support Protocols.) Should any company not have a copy of
those protocols or require another, they should contact the Chief. The following operating guidelines
shall apply to home medical emergency calls:
1. It should be noted that a Department rescue unit, or any other Department vehicle or apparatus
responding in lieu of a rescue unit, is not to respond without at least one State certified MRT or
EMT on-board or confirmed on-scene.
2. The personnel from the first arriving unit on-scene (generally a rescue unit), or those arriving
concurrently in their personal vehicles, should bring the following into the residence:
a. First aid/trauma bag
b. Portable oxygen
c. Defibrillator (if chest pain, difficulty breathing or possible heart call)
d. Backboard, cervical collars and head blocks (if a fall victim)
e. Department portable radio
f. C-MED portable radio
3. Once a sufficient amount of trained, State certified medical personnel have arrived onscene to handle the incident and patient situation found, Dispatch should be notified by radio the
13
there are "sufficient personnel on-scene". This will alert responding members that they are not to
report to the scene, but rather report to their station.
4. All patients should be treated to the standard of care of the highest medically certified
member on-scene. The only exception should be where a member is a Paramedic, but is responding
as an EMT due to that being the maximum level of care our Department is allowed to provide.
5. If possible, a brief patient update should be provided to the responding ambulance,
including the appropriate response priority. This is to be done on the Department or C-MED radio,
depending on the incoming ambulance(s) to that particular incident.
6. Medically qualified personnel on-scene should determine if advanced life support (ALS) is
warranted and order such services via their C-MED radio or telephone. If ALS is ordered by either
method, pertinent information should be given to C-MED to be relayed to the ALS response unit.
7. Upon arrival of the ambulance crew or transfer of the patient, any and all pertinent
information about the patient and the situation found should be provided to the ambulance technician
who will assume patient care.
8. If ALS intercept services have been ordered, the patient should be transferred immediately
upon arrival of our BLS ambulance. This will allow the patient to be en route quicker and closer to
the finite care they require.
9. The patient should generally be ready for transport when turned over to the ambulance
crew. This includes, but is not limited to being collared, boarded, splinted, vital signs taken and
recorded, etc. Whenever possible, this should be done upon arrival of the ambulance, or shortly
thereafter.
4.13 Use of Warning Lights & Sirens
Warning lights and sirens shall be used whenever responding to incidents in Priority 1 conditions.
When returning from the incident, or under Priority 2 response, the warning lights and siren shall not
be used. In any instance where apparatus or firefighters are in the travel portion of the roadway, the
vehicle four way flashers shall remain on. In high traffic areas, the warning lights shall be on.
4.14 Response To Haz-Mat Incidents
The following shall apply to all hazardous materials incidents other than LPG incidents involving 20
lb. cylinders:
1. Only members who have completed Hazardous Materials Operations certification shall
respond to such incidents.
2. All responding units and members shall stage no less than 500 feet before the incident for
investigation purposes.
3. No actions shall be initiated until the hazardous property has been identified.
4. Firefighters shall only be allowed to enter the hazard area with the appropriate level of
turnout gear.
5. In all instances, there shall be the same number of qualified and properly equipped
firefighters standing available for relief or rescue of the firefighters who have
14
entered the hazard area.
4.15 Propane Incidents Involving Gas Grilles
Incidents involving propane fueled outdoor cooking equipment are considered hazardous materials
incidents. The following shall apply:
1. All responding firefighters shall have Hazardous Materials Operational Level certification.
2. Apparatus shall stage no less than 200 feet from the incident.
3. The main tactical priority shall be stopping the leak and minimizing the potential for
ignition of the LPG which escaped prior to the leak being stopped.
4. The leak may be stopped using the tank valve or the plugs carried on all engines.
5. Approach to the leaking tank shall be under the protection of at least one hose line to
disperse the LPG vapors, unless determined by the Incident Commander not to be necessary.
6. In all incidents, the area of the incident, the residence and all low lying areas shall be
metered for residual LPG vapors.
7. A minimum of 1,000 gallons of apparatus water should respond for all propane incidents.
4.16 Incident Tactical Priorities
Tactical priorities identify the three separate tactical functions that must be completed in order to
stabilize the incident. These priorities also establish the order in which these basic fireground
functions shall be performed.
Life Safety - The activities required to protect occupants, remove those who are threatened
and to treat the injured.
Incident Stabilization - The activities required to stop the forward progress of the fire or
escalation of the incident and bring it under control.
Property Conservation - The activities required to stop or minimize the loss to the property
involved in the incident.
4.17 On-Scene Size-Up Report
The Incident Commander's initial on-scene size-up report shall, consider the following:
Building/incident size and components
Fire or smoke showing and quantity
Type of material involved in the fire or incident
Type and usage of occupancy
Type of fire attack or incident mitigation chosen (offensive, defensive, etc.)
Condition and/or location of occupants
Rescue requirements
Exposures
15
Other pertinent information
The sides of the building shall be designated as Side 1 for the front of the building. Sides 2, 3 and 4
shall be designated by working around the building using a clockwise rotation. In general, the
Command Post shall be set up on Side 1. Reference shall be made to the Side numbers rather than
North, South, etc. sides in the size up and incident related radio transmissions.
4.18 Fire Attack Considerations
The basic variables relating to fire attack operations involve location position of the attack, size of
the attack and support functions required. The Incident Commander (IC) develops an effective
attack through the management of these factors.
Time becomes an extremely important factor with regard to attack operations. The bigger the attack,
the longer it takes to initiate; the more interior the attack is positioned, the longer it takes to initiate.
The IC must balance and integrate the attack size and position with the fire position/condition and
his/her resources.
An attack from the unburned side of the fire will generally drive the fire, smoke and heat back into
the portion of the building, which has already burnt. This procedure, along with effective
ventilation, provides the safest environment for the firefighters and the trapped occupants.
The IC must develop a fire control plan of attack that first stops the forward progress of the fire and
then brings it under control. In large complex fires, the IC will not immediately have adequate
resources to accomplish all of the attack needs present. At that point, he/she must prioritize the
attack efforts, act as a resource allocator and determine the response he/she will eventually require.
Accurate forecasting of the conditions by the IC becomes critical during this initial evaluation
process.
The IC must develop critical decisions that relate to cut-off points and must approach fire spread
determinations with pessimism. It takes a certain amount of time to “get water” and the fire
continues to burn while the attack is being assembled and initiated. The IC must consider where the
fire will be when the attack crew is actually ready to go into operation and suppression. If he/she
misjudges, the fire may burn past his/her attack/cut-off position. It is inappropriate to play catch-up
with a fire. Project set-up time, write off lost property, get ahead of the fire, set-up adequately and
over power it with your assembled resources.
Fire under control or a signal 12, means that the forward progress of the fire has been stopped and
the remaining fire can be extinguished with the on-scene resources. It does not mean that the fire is
completely out.
16
4.19 Units In Service
After the initial arrival and set-up of apparatus and the initiation of incident mitigation activities, the
IC shall contact Dispatch and identify the units on-scene which are in service. Should those units be
required for another incident, dispatch will be aware of their availability. If a unit is identified as
remaining in service at the scene, it's equipment and personnel cannot be committed to the incident
without Dispatch being notified that the apparatus is no longer available for other incidents.
4.20 Last Unit Clearing
The last apparatus or departmental officer car leaving the incident scene shall notify dispatch that it
is the last unit clearing the incident scene. This shall notify dispatch that all department personnel
have left or are in the process of leaving the scene.
4.21 Mass Casualty Incident Response
See Appendix C for information regarding Mass Casualty Incidents. A Mass Casualty Incident
(MCI) determination should be made by the first unit on scene to allow time for appropriate
resources to be activated. The S.T.A.R.T. protocol is the regionally accepted MCI criteria.
5. Safety
5.1 ID Tags
All members shall have an identification tag if they are to be allowed entry onto an incident scene.
Those tags will be outfitted with red dots for certification as a firefighter and green dots for SCBA
certification. Separate helmet stickers shall also be provided for members with Hazardous Materials
Operations certification.
5.2 Accountability
The previously announced accountability system shall be implemented in all incidents where
personnel enter a structure for a fire, industrial accident or hazardous materials incident.
5.3 Safety Officers
Incident scene safety officer training will be provided for all company officers and other designated
firefighters with significant experience. Once completed, a safety officer shall be appointed in all
situations where more than two apparatus are expected to be on the scene of an incident for more
than 20 minutes or any situation where appointment of a safety officer would be prudent.
17
5.4 Evacuation Signal
The Department signal for evacuation of a building or incident “hot zone” shall be a five (5) second
air horn blast followed by a radio transmission staging the unit or officer giving the order followed
by the words “all personnel evacuate” or something similar.
Upon receipt of the evacuation signal, all personnel and incident operating teams shall assemble at
the personnel staging area or incident command post. At that time, all personnel involved in the
incident shall be accounted for by the designated Incident Safety Officer and Accountability Officer.
5.5 Accountability Officer
An Accountability Officer shall be assigned at all incident where firefighters will enter a structure,
confined space or other type of incident where a “hot or danger zone” has been designated. The
Accountability Officer shall be responsible for securing the identification tags of all personnel
entering the structure, hot zone or dangerous environment. Individuals without accountability tags
shall be restricted from entering such areas.
5.6 Scene Safety Concerns
In all incidents where there would be concern for the safety of the responders, the incident scene
must be declared “safe” before any personnel are to advance to the incident. Examples include, but
are not limited to, domestic situations, psychiatric calls, shootings, and suicide attempts. The
Departmental procedure shall be for all personnel and apparatus to wait approximately one-half
block away for the Police to declare the scene safe before entering.
5.7 Personnel Injury Reports
In the event that a member is injured responding, at an incident, at a fire station or at a Department
function, it should be documented and properly reported. Any injury requiring immediate medical
treatment must be brought to the attention of the applicable District Chief and/or the Chief. The
prescribed procedures for obtaining medical treatment under the Town's insurance carrier shall be
followed.
Wherever possible, a company officer shall accompany the member to the hospital or medical
facility and remain there until the member is released or admitted to the hospital. All injury reports
must be forwarded to the Town Purchasing Agent and the Chief the next business day following day
of the injury. In the event of a delay in the completion of the injury report, a telephone call must be
made to the Town Purchasing Agent and Chief explaining the circumstances of the injury and the
reason for the delay in reporting the injury.
5.8 Infection Control
The Department procedures requiring EMS responders to utilize universal infection control
18
procedures shall be followed. Disregarding these procedures, for any reason, shall be grounds for
disciplinary procedures. Infection Control Officers, as designated by the Chief, shall be responsible
for oversight of the infection control procedures.
5.9 Rehabilitation
At any confirmed structure fire or incident where crews are operating for an extended period of time,
or under extreme conditions, a rehabilitation sector shall be called for by the Incident Commander or
Incident Scene Safety Officer. The rehabilitation sector shall be staffed by the crew from Ambulance
4, Ambulance 44 or qualified individuals from one of the Rescue units on scene. (See Appendix C
for Rehabilitation Protocols/procedures)
All firefighters shall report to the rehabilitation sector upon leaving the hazard zone/structure or fire
area. The individuals in the rehabilitation sector shall record the vital signs of all individuals who
have worked in the hazard zone. Any individual found to have elevated or questionable vital signs or
showing signs of extreme fatigue shall be prohibited from reentering the hazard zone.
5.10 Rapid Intervention (RIT)
Formal introduction of a Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) shall take place in the coming months. In
the interim, the third engine on scene of any structure fire or the second rescue unit on scene for
hazardous materials or other similar incidents, shall be designated the RIT. The RIT shall have
sufficient personnel and equipment assembled and staged so as to assist or rescue the incident entry
teams actively working to mitigate the incident. (See Appendix D for RIT Standard Operating
Guidelines)
The RIT shall be under the supervision of a departmental or company officer designated by the
Incident Commander. All members of the RIT shall be Firefighter I certified, SCBA certified by the
company Captain and have experience in incidents similar to the one they are serving as an RIT
member for. Neither the RIT nor its officer shall be used for any other function until relieved by the
Incident Commander.
Issued 10/22/97; Revised 7/1/98; Revised 12/2000
19
Appendix A
Substance Abuse Policy
Purpose
The North Branford Fire Department (hereinafter the “Department”) hereby establishes a
Substance Abuse Policy for all departmental members. This policy is implemented to maintain the
integrity of the Department and the safety of the public and members of the Department.
The Department encourages personnel who may believe they have a problem with alcohol or
other substance abuse that may affect their duties to seek and pursue treatment. This voluntary step is
the responsibility of the individual member and may alleviate the requirement of disciplinary action
if brought to the Department’s attention in a timely, pre-detection manner.
Definitions
“On duty” shall be defined as a member responding to a call that was broadcast over the fire radio
“Positive Test” shall be defined 1) mirroring the state statute for impairment with regards to alcohol
and 2) any evidence with regards to illegal drugs.
Diagnostic Procedures
1.
All initial applicants for membership in the North Branford Fire Department shall be
required to undergo a urinalysis for the detection of illegal, controlled substances. See
attachment A “Applicant Consent Form”. Positive, confirmed results for such controlled
substances will result in the disqualification of such individual for membership in the North
Branford Fire Department. Any applicant shall be informed in writing at the time of
application that such test will be conducted and shall receive a copy of such test results. The
results of any such test shall be kept confidential. The North Branford Fire Department will
have no obligation to accept any applicant who fails said test.
20
2.
Any Department member who is observed in a state which strongly indicates the use of
alcohol or controlled substances while on duty is subject to undergo an immediate screening
process to determine fitness for duty. Such screening shall include urinalysis. Failure to
comply with the order for such screening will result in disciplinary action. Any such
screening in this category must have the approval of the Department Chief or his designee.
3.
The Chief or his designee may require a member of the Department to submit to a urinalysis
drug test when the Chief or his designee has reasonable suspicion that such member is under
the influence of drugs or alcohol which adversely affects or could adversely affect the
performance of such member’s duties.
4.
The Department shall only use a reliable methodology in conducting a urinalysis drug test
under Paragraphs 1 and 3 above. Any positive test shall be confirmed by a second urinalysis
drug test separate and independent from the initial test utilizing a reliable methodology. Such
positive test results shall be confirmed by a third urinalysis drug test separate and
independent from the initial test utilizing a gas chromatography and mass spectrometry
methodology or a methodology that has been determined to be more reliable.
Disciplinary Action
1.
Departmental personnel shall be made aware that the illegal use, possession or distribution of
controlled substances shall not be tolerated by the Department. In addition, the abuse of legal
drugs, such as alcohol and other over-the-counter drugs, which may affect the performance of
a member’s duties, shall not be acceptable.
2.
Possession of or detection through approved testing and/or observed impairment from the
use of an illegal, controlled substance will result in disciplinary action. A controlled
substance shall be any such substance so defined in Chapter 420b of the Connecticut General
Statutes.
21
3.
Observed impairment and/or the consumption of alcohol while on duty are prohibited and
will result in disciplinary action.
Counseling/Rehabilitative Services
1.
The member’s right to confidentiality and privacy are recognized. The pertinent information
and records of personnel who seek and receive diagnosis, counseling and treatment will be
preserved in the strictest confidence.
2.
The decision to voluntarily seek and accept treatment for any suspected problem is the
responsibility of the individual member.
Alcoholic Beverages
1.
No alcoholic beverages will be brought into, or consumed upon, Department premises. There
may be situations, however, where the Fire Chief or his designee, has sanctioned, in writing,
an event where alcohol may be consumed. This approval, by no means, is meant to be
construed as permission by any member to violate the intent of this policy. The Department
will invoke appropriate disciplinary action for any violators.
2.
Drinking or being under the influence of alcoholic beverages while on duty is cause for
suspension or termination.
Prescription Drugs
1.
No prescription drug shall be brought upon Department premises by any member or other
individual other than for whom the drug is prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner, and
shall be used only in the manner, combination and quantity prescribed.
Illegal Drugs
22
1.
The use of an illegal drug or controlled substance or the possession of them by a member
while said member is on duty or on Department premises is cause for termination.
2.
The sale, trade or delivery of illegal drugs of controlled substances by any member, on or off
duty, to another person is cause for termination, and/or for referral to law enforcement
authorities.
Procedures
The procedures of the North Branford Fire Department in regards to members using,
possessing or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or controlled substances while on duty are as
follows:
1.
Any departmental or company officer who has reasonable grounds to believe that a member
is under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or controlled substances shall immediately relieve
said member from duty in order to protect said member, fellow members and the public from
harm.
2.
The departmental or company officer shall immediately notify the Chief or his designee of
the incident.
3.
The departmental or company officer and the Chief shall interview the member, and if they
determine, based upon reasonable grounds, that the member is under the influence of alcohol,
drugs, or controlled substances, then said member will be required to go to the Department’s
designated employee health facility for testing. Notwithstanding the aforesaid, in a case
involving a line officer of the department, the Chief or a District Chief may ask another line
officer, whether or not such individual is said line officer’s superior, to participate in the
interview.
23
4.
The decision to relieve the member from duty shall be documented as soon as possible. Both
the departmental or company officer and Chief or his designee should document reasons and
observation, such as, but not limited to, glazed eyes, smell of alcohol, slurred speech, wobbly
walk, change in attitude, aggressiveness, passed out, change in normal appearance, etc.
5.
The member will be requested to sign a Consent Form for a drug and/or alcohol test. See
Attachment B “Employee Drug Testing Consent Form.”
a.
It shall made clear to the employee before he/she signs the consent form that
the results will be made available to the Chief and/or his designee and may be
used in disciplinary proceedings against the member. In addition, said results
will be made available to the member.
b.
If the tests are not given and the results not provided, the member will be
considered by the Department to be in violation of the Department’s Rules
and Regulations.
c.
6.
The member will be terminated.
When an alcohol/drug test is administered the member will be relieved of active duty and
will receive no pension points until the test results are available. Pension points will be given
back if the test results are negative.
a.
When test results are positive the member will be relieved of duty and he/she
must seek treatment at an appropriate facility.
b.
The Board of Fire Commissioners shall make final determination whether the
member returns to active status or remains off duty regardless of the test
results.
c.
Rejection of testing shall be cause for termination.
d.
Upon completion of treatment, and a negative second test result, the
member will be returned to active status without reduction of pension
points.
24
7.
Any departmental or company officer who does not relieve a member suspected of being
under the influence of alcohol, drugs or controlled substances will be subject to
disciplinary action.
8.
Anyone knowingly bringing false charges against a member or using these procedures for
harassment or personal reasons will be subject to disciplinary action.
Effective Date - Notice to members - State/Federal Law
1.
The policies set forth in this Substance Abuse Policy shall be effective upon approval.
Each member will be furnished a copy of this Policy and will sign a receipt for same.
2.
These policies will be implemented in a manner that will comply with all applicable
federal and state laws.
BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED that the North Branford Board of Fire Commissioners accepts
this Substance Abuse Policy and causes said policy to be implemented as of January 1, 2001.
Motion By:
Joseph Civitello
Seconded By:
Patricia Nagot
Vote:
4-0
Revision History:
Adopted :
October 7, 1999
25
Appendix B
Statement of Patient Confidentiality
As a member of the medical community, fire department members must maintain the patient’s rights
to privacy. The release of any information regarding the patient must be restricted to the Fire Chief,
pursuant to section 1.6a of the Standard Operating Procedures. Law enforcement personnel, while
on duty and investigating a possible crime, may ask about an incident. General information about
the incident may be released but requests for the patient’s medical information or a copy of the trip
report must be referred to the Fire Chief, pursuant to section 1.6a of the Standard Operating
Procedures. Care must be taken when talking in public not to release any information that would
violate the patient’s rights. Discussing any patient or maintaining any records of the patient’s
medical history or treatment in public is likely to a violation of the patient’s rights. Any questions
asked by the news media will be referred to the Chief and/or answered with “Department policies
require that such information only be released by the Fire Chief”. Only designated personnel, or
those members that have received permission from the Chief, are authorized to speak with members
of the press.
I hereby acknowledge receipt of this statement of confidentiality and fully understand its meaning.
Member’s Signature
Date
Member’s Name Printed:
26
Appendix C
Mass Casualty Incidents
27
Appendix D
Rehabilitation Protocols/Procedures
28
Appendix E
Rapid Intervention Team Standard Operating Guidelines
Purpose:
The Purpose of North Branford Fire Department’s Rapid Intervention Team is to provide immediate
assistance to a firefighter who becomes trapped, is in distress, or is unaccounted for. The RIT unit,
and it’s members, shall respond to all working structure fires, or other events that the Incident
Commander believes could subject the members to hazards that could be Immediately Dangerous to
Life or Health (IDLH), or in the event of a unexpected equipment failure, sudden change in
conditions, collapse, or mishap.
Dispatch:
The RIT unit will be dispatched to all working structure fires, or when requested by Incident
Command (IC), or when requested in accordance with written mutual aid agreements.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Upon arrival at a scene, members will report to the IC, assemble as a team, with the required
personal and equipment, set up a staging area that is within view of the IC, and within view of the
incident. Exception would be a multiple occupancy high rise dwelling, where the staging area might
be located at the operation command post.
The RIT unit will consist of a team leader and two firefighters for a single dwelling, residential
incident. For other incidents, including any mutual aid assignments, team will consist of a team
leader, and no less than three firefighters. Additional teams can be assembled according to incident,
or by request of the IC.
It will be the responsibility of the team leader, to assemble his team with all needed equipment at a
staging area that is within view of the IC and within view of the incident. The team leader will do a
360 degree survey of the incident, conduct size-up, looking for safety issues, egress needs, ladder
placement, and special circumstances. Notification to the IC and to dispatch will be given when the
team is standing fast when ready for deployment. Periodic walk around of the incident is required to
notice changing conditions and safety concerns. Also, the length of time that units have been
operating should be noted. Team leader shall be in verbal contact with the safety officer and
accountability officer. The team leader must anticipate additional needs, equipment or personal, and
request them, before they are needed. This may include a dedicated back-up line for the RIT. The
team leader will be responsible for the accountability of the RIT unit.
It will be the responsibility of the team members, to monitor fire ground radio frequencies for
29
distress calls, and general operational areas of companies. The RIT unit will ensure that sufficient
ground ladders or aerial devices are in place for emergency egress from the fire floor and above. The
team will assemble at the staging area with tools that would be needed according to the incident.
Team members must also know the location of any specialized tools that might be needed. All team
members will give their accountability tags to the RIT unit leader.
Equipment:
All team members will be equipped with full protective turnout gear, and positive pressure, selfcontained breathing apparatus (SCBA), with a operating pass device.
Minimum team equipment will include: one set of irons, two portable radios for three person crew,
three portable radios for four person crew, primary search rope, individual tag line, individual hand
light, hand held thermal image camera (if available), rescue air pack or other means for supplying
emergency air (buddy breathing).
Communications:
The RIT unit will have the radio designation of RIT 1. Additional teams will be designated RIT 2,
RIT 3 etc. The team will monitor the fireground frequency while standing fast. Once activated, team
will switch to another frequency that will be use as a talk around for the RIT unit. In a mutual aid
situation, RIT radios will be used for incident talk around, but team must be supplied with at least
two radios with the capability to contact IC.
Operations:
When activated by the IC, the team leader must notify dispatch of activation. An additional RIT unit
must be made ready to stand fast at the staging area. Additional personal must be made available on
scene to back up RIT 2. Back up personnel may be engaged in other fire ground activities. All
fireground radio traffic must be kept at a minimum. A warning tone and emergency notification will
be made over the main fire frequency. The team leader will give the team’s accountability tags to the
IC or accountability officer. The team will operate as a unit. The team will utilize search ropes and
tag lines when needed.
The IC must be notified immediately upon locating firefighter, with a size-up of the situation,
approximate location, method of removal and estimated time to remove the firefighter from the
incident.
Restrictions:
The RIT unit that is standing fast may not be used for any other purpose.
30
The RIT unit can only stand down, when the situation is declared under control, by the IC, and a full
accountability of all personal is taken. Certain situations during overhaul may require the RIT unit to
stand fast.
Safety:
It is the responsibility of all department members to operate in a safe manner. Operate in teams of
two (buddy system), and utilize the accountability system.
31