Download TABLE OF CONTENTS - Columbia Borough Fire Department

Standard Operating
Guidelines
INDEX
i. Disclaimer and Acknowledgment
SECTION 1.0 - COMMAND STRUCTURE
1.1 Issuing Operational Guidelines
1.2 Incident Command Structure
1.2 Officer in Charge (OIC)
1.3 Staging
1.4 Radio Communications
1.5 Public Information
1.5 Communications Room Protocol
SECTION 2.0 - HEALTH AND SAFETY
2.1 Safety Officer
2.2 Alcohol
2.3 Drug Usage
2.4 Facial Hair
2.4 Self Contained Breathing Apparatus and PASS Devices
2.5 Personnel Accountability
2.6 Fireground Safety
2.6 Personnel Accountability Report (P.A.R)
2.7 Emergency Evacuation
2.8 Mayday
2.9 Rapid Intervention Teams (RIT)
2.10 Collapse Zones
2.11 Rehabilitation
2.12 Physical Fitness and Medical Records
2.13 Accidents and Injuries
2.14 Bloodborne Pathogens and Hepatitis Immunization
2.15 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
2.16 Gear Cleaning
2.17 Firearms
2.18 Public Safety Education
SECTION 3.0 – PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Training Requirements
3.2 Training Classes
3.3 Live Burns
3.4 Seating and Riding Requirements
3.5 Staffing Requirements
3.6 Driver Safety Program
3.7 Officers’ Seat Requirements
3.8 Station Rules
3.9 Fire Department Pagers
3.10 Bunk-In Program
3.11 Junior Firefighters
3.12 Electronic Media Policy
3.13 Personnel Training Files
3.14Telephone Usage
3.15 Discipline
SECTION 4.0 - RESPONSE GUIDELINES
4.1 Alarm Response
4.2 Fire Scene
4.3 Multiunit Dwellings
4.4 High Rise Buildings
4.5 Trash/Refuse & Vehicle Fires
4.6 Evacuations of Residents at an Incident
4.7 Fire Hydrants
4.8 Investigations
4.9 Knox Box System
4.10 Motor Vehicle Accidents
4.11 Engine Department Operations at Vehicle Accidents
4.12 Aerial Truck Operations
4.13 Water Rescue Incident
4.14 Confined Space Rescue
4.15 Elevator Rescue
4.16 Automatic External Defibrillation (AED)
4.17 Bomb Scare/Threat
4.18 Spill Control
4.19 Hazardous Materials Incident
4.20 Aircraft Incident
4.21 High Angle/Environmental Incident
4.22 Carbon Monoxide Response
4.23 Lockout/Tagout
4.24 Medical Assists
4.25 Weapons of Mass Destruction
4.26 Incident Reports
SECTION 5.0 - APPENDIX
5.1 Lancaster County Fire Chief’s Personnel Accountability
5.2 Heat index
5.3 Cold index
5.4 Minor Volunteer Fire Department, Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Volunteer Rescue
Squads and Volunteer Forest Fire Crew Member Activities
5.5 Protocol for Request of Hazmat team
5.6 Protocol for Helicopter Request
5.7 Protocol for Request of PP&L
5.8 Knox Locations
5.9 Checklist - Orientation, E801, E804, E807, T801, T807, R804, R805, Squads, Boats, Air
System
5.10 Officers’ Seat Exam
DISCLAIMER AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
I have received a copy of the Standard Operating Guidelines of the Columbia Borough Fire
Department, and have read and reviewed them. Furthermore, I understand all of policies and
guidelines set forth and agree to abide by them. I understand and agree that if I do not follow
these guidelines, I will be subject to disciplinary action by the Fire Department.
Due to the ever changing conditions that can occur at any incident it is understood that the
sections in this manual that relate to response to and handling of an incident are STRICTLY
GUIDELINES and may have to be altered at the discretion of the Officer in Charge.
MEMBERS NAME (PLEASE PRINT)
________________________________________________________________________
MEMBERS SIGNATURE:
______________________________________________________DATE____________
WITNESS:
______________________________________________________DATE____________
I
Mission Statement
The mission of the Columbia Borough Fire Department shall be to protect the
lives and property of the citizens and visitors of the Borough of Columbia and
neighboring communities from fire and other related emergencies or natural
disasters. This public safety goal shall be achieved by providing professionally
trained personnel educated in the areas of fire prevention, suppression, and tactical
operations from the adverse effects of fire and rescue situations, or exposure to
other hazardous conditions.
Objectives
To provide an adequate number of competently trained personnel.
To provide necessary equipment and resources to accomplish the department’s
mission.
To reduce the incidents of fire and injury through public safety education, fire
prevention programs and applicable codes.
To manage the Department in a fiscally responsible, professional and costeffective manner.
Standard
Operating
Guidelines
Section 1.0
Command
System
Susquehanna Fire & Rescue Co, No. 4
Standard Operating Guidelines
Issuing Operational Guidelines
Revised – January 1, 2013
Section 1.1
Page 1 of 1
ISSUING OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
PURPOSE: To provide a source of fire department information for implementing and/or
interpreting operational guidelines.
1.1.1 POLICY
 The department’s operational guidelines should be used as a guideline for operation for
department personnel.

On occasion there will be times when an deviation from a operational guideline is
warranted. This is an acceptable practice as long as there is legitimate reasons for
deviating from the guideline.

The Columbia Borough Fire Department does not discriminate against any based on
race, color, religion or sexual orientation. At times in the guideline reference may be
made to “He, his, him, etc.”, this will in no way reflect a preference by the department or
department officers. “He, his, him, etc.” was a general term used to reflect officers,
members, firefighters, etc. The use of other terms is attempted to be used to avoid and
gender reference.

Any deviation from the guidelines policies resulting in injury to a firefighter will be
handled accordingly. The basis for deviations to these guidelines will be reviewed on a
case by case basis.

Operational guidelines are merely a guide. The department may be presented with
situations where a guideline is not available. These situations will be handled
accordingly. The Fire Chief and his or her officers have the final say.

The department’s operational guidelines should be in line with borough ordinance and
commonwealth policies. If they are not, they will be adjusted accordingly.

It is the responsibility of all members to read and understand the operational guidelines
of the Columbia Borough Fire Department.

It is the responsibility of the Columbia Borough Fire Department to make available one
hard copy of the operational guidelines in the crew room as well as electronically make a
copy available if it permits.

The SOG binder will not be removed from the Columbia Borough Fire Department. It
is responsibility of all members to know the SOG’s and to follow them.

Susquehanna Fire & Rescue Co, No. 4
Standard Operating Guidelines
Incident Command Structure
Revised – January 1, 2013
Section 1.2
Page 1 of 2
INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM
PURPOSE: The Incident Command System (ICS) is a management technique which
combines facilities, equipment, personnel, procedures and communications operating
within a common organizational system, with responsibility for the management of
assigned resources to effectively accomplish stated objectives at emergency incidents and
training exercises.
1.2.1 DEFINITIONS:
● INCIDENT COMMANDER (IC) - The Incident Commander will be a Chief Officer or
Officer In Charge who establishes a command structure. This person is in charge of the
overall coordination and direction of activities at the incident scene. The IC shall
determine the overall strategy, summon and assign resources, evaluate progress and
change strategy as necessary, communicate directions and interpret progress reports, and
bring the incident to a termination. As the size and the complexity of the incident
increases or decreases, the IC shall expand or diminish the command structure to
maintain effective levels of communication and control.
● CHIEF OFFICER (CO) - Chief 80, Deputy 80, Chief 801 or Chief 802.
● OFFICER IN CHARGE (OIC) - Refers to a firefighter of Station 80 who will coordinate
the activities of Station 80 members at incidents in the absence of a CO. The
qualifications and requirements to fill this position are listed in Sections 1.2 and 3.6
1.2.2 ESTABLISHING COMMAND
 The ICS shall meet National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard 1500 and
1561 for the use of an Incident Command System for operations at all emergency
incidents.

The first arriving chief officer, or in the absence of a chief officer, the first arriving
apparatus with someone who has completed the ICS course shall establish the ICS. This
shall be established from a mobile radio, not from a portable radio.

The command system used will follow the Lancaster County Fire Chief's Incident
Command System (see attachment 5.1). Command can be transferred, but only to a
higher ranking officer, or officer of equal status, and after they have been thoroughly
briefed by the Incident Commander (IC).

Command assignments are dependent upon the size of the incident. Only assign officers
to fill the needs of the particular incident. The order of assigning the officers shall occur
as follows:
1st arriving officer - Incident Commander
2nd arriving officer – Suppression Supervisor
3rd arriving officer – Safety
4th arriving officer – Divisions (as needed)
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Incident Command Structure
Developed – January 1, 2013
5th arriving officer – Accountability

Additional assignments will be given as needed. Other assignments such as Public
Information Officer (PIO), staging, water supply, resources, and planning will be
assigned to persons qualified to fill these positions. Rehab will be established by the
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) officer under the direction of the IC.
Section 1.1
Page 2 of 2
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Officer in Charge
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 1.2
Page 1 of 3
OFFICER IN CHARGE (OIC)
PURPOSE: The purpose of the OIC program is to ensure a trained person is able to
manage the activities of Station 80 firefighters, in the absence of a CO.
1.2.1 DESIGNATION
 The Fire Chief shall designate qualified individuals as OIC's. Individuals must be a
Firefighter I or Firefighter II. The Fire Chief may designate or remove persons from this
status as necessary. This list will be updated at least yearly and posted at the station.
1.2.2 INCIDENT MANAGEMENT
 In the event an OIC must manage an incident which requires specialized training the
OIC with the highest level of specialized training for the type of incident shall be in
charge of the incident.

In the event a Chief Officer responds to an incident at which an OIC is in control of, the
OIC should make a report to the CO. The CO has the right to allow the OIC to continue
as the IC or to relieve the OIC of command.
1.2.3 OFFICER’S SEAT
 The requirements to ride the Officers’ seat are in section 3.6.
1.2.4 DUTY OFFICER PROGRAM

The duty chief program will be used under the direct direction of the Fire Chief.

The duty chief will rotate on a one week basis. The duty chief will be relieved at 18:00
hours, the last Sunday of his or her week.

The duty chief will not respond to any call outside the Borough of Columbia.
The
exceptions which apply are Rt. 30 and Rt. 462 bridges, as well as the Susquehanna
River. Some additional exceptions may apply and will be at the discretion of the Fire
Chief

It will be the responsibility of the duty chief to make sure all information is being
obtained on responses.

It will be the responsibility of the fire chief to provide the duty schedule.

If the duty officer is unable be on duty for a consecutive period 12 hours, it will be their
responsibility to find coverage for that day. The fire chief will be notified of the switch.

The duty chief program will be run from the hours of 16:00 hours till 05:00 hours, on all
weekdays. The weekend will begin on 16:00 hours on Friday and run until 05:00 hours
Monday. The fire chief may authorize additional hours.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Officer in Charge
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 1.2
Page 2 of 3


All holidays will be scheduled by the fire chief.
If the duty chief is aware that crews will be limited at any given time, they will assure
there is coverage by contacting other members, or they will respond to the station to
assure all apparatus has sufficient manpower.

It will be the responsibility of the assigned duty chief to answer any page from county
requesting for any station 80 chief. This will not be the case if they specifically request
for Chief 80. If the page occurs a second time, any of the chiefs may answer the page.

It will be the duty chief’s responsibility to find coverage for any non scheduled activity
occurring during his or her duty week.

The fire chief and the duty chief will be notified of any piece of equipment which is out
of service.

The duty chief will follow all established county policies regarding radio etiquette, and
LCWC operating guidelines.

When an officer has duty, he or she will not be permitted to take the duty vehicle out of
a reasonable response area (10 mile radius) of the Borough of Columbia. Permission
must be granted from the fire chief to take the vehicle out of the area.

At no time will the duty vehicle be permitted to driven by anyone who is under the
influence of alcohol or drugs.

It will be the duty chief’s responsibility to find coverage for bad weather crews.

When a duty chief assumes duty, it will be his or her responsibility to sign their name on
duty on a board at the station.

The duty chief will be responsible to assure his or her gear is with them at all

It will be the responsibility of the duty officer going off duty, to assure the vehicle is
clean and fueled for the oncoming duty officer.

The duty chief will adhere to all traffic regulations regarding red lights and sirens.

If the assigned duty chief is out of Columbia Borough and realizes he or she will be
unable to arrive on the scene prior to the
apparatus, they will not go responding on
the radio. They will report to the scene, and assume a designated branch of the incident
command system.

The duty chief will assure when arriving on the scene they do not park in any area which
may hinder fire department operations.

When the duty chief intends to respond to the station, he or she will not sign on the radio
times.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Officer in Charge
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 1.2
Page 3 of 3
responding.

The individual actions of one person reflect on the entire department. All personnel who
operate the vehicle, or ride in the vehicle will act professionally at all times.

Vehicle check lists will be completed by the oncoming duty officer. Any damages to the
vehicle will be immediately reported to the fire chief.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Staging
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 1.3
Page 1 of 1
STAGING
PURPOSE: Staging will be established when the IC has not defined an assignment for onscene or responding resources, to keep an orderly deployment and keep firefighters from
free-lancing.
1.3.1
Level I Staging: Units arriving after the initial attack should report to their pre-planned
locations and if no orders are received, it is recommended they take a hold position in
the vicinity of the incident and await assignment by the IC. The Rescue Company
should position itself to allow for engine and/or truck operations.
1.3.2
Level II Staging: When an incident is escalating or has not yet been stabilized,
sufficient resources to meet potential incident development should be available in
staging.

The IC or operations shall establish staging by defining its location and communicating this
information to the LCWC. In radio communications "staging" will be the call sign
designation and if incident has been named then "staging" shall precede the incident name.

Resources in staging shall remain with their apparatus and be available for immediate
assignment and deployment.

The IC or Operations shall request on-scene resources through the Staging Officer and shall
specify where and to whom these resources shall report.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Public Information
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 1.4
Page 1 of 1
RADIO COMMUNICATIONS
PURPOSE: Radio communications are vital to the success of fire-ground operations.
However, excessive radio traffic or unnecessary communications can be detrimental to the
successful termination of a fire-ground incident. Poor radio communications can cause
mass confusion resulting in a delay of operations and injury to firefighters.
1.4.1 OPERATIONS
 All incidents will require the use of only necessary radio communications.

Upon given instructions on an incident the apparatus and portable radios of the
responding unit should switch to 33.76 for fireground operations in Columbia Borough.

Command will not be established off of a portable radio, unless repeater equipped.
1.4.2 KNOX BOX SYSTEM
 When responding to an incident that has a Knox Box the request to activate the tone to
release the Knox Key should be done as soon as possible. The radio in the vehicle needs
to be set on 33.64. Upon arrival at the incident, the Knox Key should be inserted into
the box, to get access to the important keys and information of the facility. Returning
the key to the Knox Box system should be done with the OIC and the driver or a chief
officer present. Requests for the Knox Key to be released for training or updating
facility information shall be done by a Chief Officer.

See section 4.9 for the Knox Box system procedure.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Public Information
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 1.4
Page 1 of 1
PUBLIC INFORMATION
PURPOSE: To provide a guideline for releasing information to the press, media and the
public by the fire department.
1.4.1 AUTHORIZED
 The Chief and the President of the Department are the authorized spokespersons for the
department unless otherwise directed by the body of the department.

NO MEMBER is authorized to release any information to the press regarding incidents,
issues or comments unless directed by the OIC, Fire Chief or President.

It is the policy of the Columbia Borough Fire Department to maintain a positive working
relationship with the media.

Every effort should be made to provide accurate information.

A Public Information Officer (PIO) may be assigned by the fire department or the
Incident Commander on the scene of incidents or when issues arise. The PIO works
directly under the command, or the fire department when releasing information to the
public or media.


All personnel releasing information via the newspaper or TV will be
appropriately attired with fire department uniform or dress consistent with their
role or function.

General PIO Information:

Release basic information only:
o Times of response
o Number of Units and personnel on scene
o Human Interest or safety information
General information for giving reports:







Tell the reporters to gather in one place and that you will return shortly with
more information.
Request additional manpower from Command to assist in gathering information
and remain with the reporters.
Tell the reporters to go ahead and get pictures and film footage without
interfering with incident operations while you are gathering information. Provide
an escort from the fire department if necessary.
Do not speculate as to the cause of a fire or car accident.
Do not use names of victims or patients.
Do not leave the media unsupervised within the operations area.
Areas where firefighters are required to wear TOG are restricted to media
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Public Information
Developed – January 1, 2013

Section 1.4
Page 2 of 1
personnel unless properly equipped.
Attempt to ask the media there projected questions before going live to reduce
the chance of surprise.

NO INFORMATION will be given out over the phone to any person. Anyone calling
the station for information regarding a particular incident, call or situation should be
directed to the President or Fire Chief.

If approached by a civilian or reporter asking for information on a situation or response,
you should direct them to the official department contact. If one has not been
established, they should be directed to the fire chief or president.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Communications Room Protocol
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 1.5
Page 1 of 1
COMMUNICATIONS ROOM PROTOCOL
PURPOSE: The purpose of the Communications Room is to provide effective
communications between on-scene apparatus and the fire station in the event of a major
incident caused by either man or nature.
1.5.1 STAFFING REQUIREMENTS:
 A working knowledge of Lancaster County Communications Radio Procedures.
 A working knowledge of the Incident Command System.
 Junior Firefighters may not operate any two-way equipment except Amateur Radio
Equipment.
 Person in charge of the Communications Room as designated by the OIC shall utilize
manpower as needed with a maximum of (4) people in the room at a time.
1.5.2 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
 The Communications Room shall be staffed by people that are standing by at station or
as designated by the OIC.
 Only licensed amateurs may operate amateur radio equipment (FCC Regulation).
 When the second floor is to be used as a command post for calls such as search details,
weather emergencies, disasters, etc., the training room area will be set up as the
command post and the Communications Room will remain for its intended use.
Standard
Operating
Guidelines
Section 2.0
Health and
Safety
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Safety Officer
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.1
Page 1 of 1
INCIDENT SAFETY OFFICER (ISO)
PURPOSE: Responsible for safe conditions of personnel, equipment, facilities, and the
general public, en-route, returning, and on scene of all incidents, training, drills, and
public demonstrations.
2.1.1 APPOINTMENT
 The OIC will appoint a Safety Officer for all incidents. In some cases, the OIC may act
in the capacity of the Safety Officer.
2.1.2 FIREGROUND RESPONSIBILITIES
 The Safety Officer will enforce and assist in the implementation of policies, procedures,
and standards.
 The Safety officer shall stop any strategy, tactic, of operation if there is evidence of
imminent danger to any personnel, equipment, facilities, or the general public.
.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Alcohol
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.2
Page 1 of 1
ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION
PURPOSE: The use of alcohol effects judgment, behavior, intelligence and coordination;
therefore, alcohol consumption must be regulated when participating in firefighting
activities, training sessions and any exercise which involves emergency apparatus and
equipment.
2.2.1 POLICY
 All personnel who intend to respond to emergency calls, participate in training or engage
any in type of exercise involving the apparatus and/or equipment should be alcohol free.
 Firefighters must exercise good judgment therefore he/she must be alcohol free for a
period of 8 hours prior to responding to an incident.
 However, at no time should a firefighter participate in any training, respond to an
emergency or interact with the apparatus and/or equipment if they has exceeded the state
blood alcohol legal limit, which is 0.8 percent
 The Chief Officers or the Officer in Charge reserve the right to remove any member from
the apparatus if they suspect the member of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
The incident shall be documented, and the Safety Officer will investigate the incident.
 Anyone who is found to be in violation of this guideline will be relieved from firefighting
duties until the next fire department meeting, at which time, a decision will be made of
further disciplinary action. The member should be present to present their version of the
events that occurred causing the suspension.
 For the policy of the Borough of Columbia, see Appendix ______.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Drug Usage
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.3
Page 1 of 1
DRUG USAGE
PURPOSE: The use of drugs effects judgment, behavior, intelligence and coordination;
therefore, the use of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited when participating in firefighting
activities, training sessions and any exercise which involves emergency apparatus and
equipment.
2.3.1 POLICY
 Drug usage may consist of over-the counter medications, prescription medications and
illegal substances. Firefighters using over-the counter or prescription medications that
may affect your judgment or ability to act, should not respond to emergency incidents or
participate in training sessions. Firefighters who are not sure should contact the Fire
Chief.
 In no instance should anyone be using illegal drugs or misusing over the counter
prescription medications and riding or boarding the apparatus.
 If a firefighter has a problem with illegal substances, the Chief Officer should be
contacted. The CO with the support of the Fire Department will make every effort to
help the individual through the Columbia Fireman’s Relief EAP provider or other
methods that are determined to be necessary.
 If a firefighter suspects another firefighter of having a drug use problem a CO should be
contacted and an investigation will be conducted and proper precautions exercised.
 For the policy of the Borough of Columbia, see Appendix ______.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Facial Hair
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.4
Page 1 of 1
FACIAL HAIR
PURPOSE: To provide a guideline for the safety of personnel involving facial hair when
utilizing SCBA.
2.4.1 POLICY

Beards or facial hair growth of two (2) or more days that may interfere with the seal of a
SCBA face piece is prohibited.

Any leakage can allow contaminants to enter the face piece, even with positive pressure
SCBA. Any outward leakage will increase the rate of air consumption, reducing the time
available for use and possibly preventing a safe exit.

To safely utilize SCBA, any facial air which causes this is unacceptable and shall be
trimmed, or the firefighter will be confined to non hazardous atmosphere functions.

Members shall achieve a NON-LEAKING face piece-to-skin seal WITH THE MASK.
Facial hair shall not be allowed at points where the SCBA face piece is designed to seal
with the face. INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS SHALL BE ACCOUNTABLE FOR
COMPLIANCE WITH THIS REQUIREMENT.

Each firefighter that utilizes SCBA will be required to pass an annual fit test utilizing a
method that assures a acceptable fit of the face piece.

It is the responsibility of each member to exercise the appropriate control in the
implementation of this policy. The department has the right to remove the firefighters
SCBA mask, or have the firefighter demonstrate a tight seal at any time.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
SCBA & PASS
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.5
Page 1 of 1
SELF CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS AND PASS DEVICES
PURPOSE: To ensure that firefighters are trained in the use, limitations and care of selfcontained breathing apparatus, buddy breathing and PASS devices.
2.5.1 COMPLIANCE
 Smoke inhalation should never occur at an incident, this is what SCBA prevents. All
personnel not wearing SCBA shall be a safe distance from the incident.
 To comply with all NFPA, NIOSH, and OSHA standards, beards or facial hair growth of
two or more days, which interferes with the seal of a face piece, is prohibited from
donning SCBA. This is to prevent any outward leakage from the face piece of the
SCBA. Minor leakage can allow contaminants to enter the face piece, even with positive
pressure SCBA. Also, any outward leakage will increase the rate of air consumption,
thereby reducing the air available for use and safe exit.
2.5.2 USAGE
 SCBA shall always be used in unfriendly atmospheres that have either a presence of
hazardous materials and/or a deficient or enriched oxygen level as determined by airquality sampling.
 All personnel must be trained and fit-tested prior to donning SCBA in emergency
situations and live training sessions.
 After a face piece has been donned, it must be cleaned to ready for service. See section
2.15 for the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) procedure.
 The SCBA re-certification of competency and fit-testing for proper fit shall occur on a
yearly basis.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Accountability
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.6
Page 1 of 1
PERSONNEL ACCOUNTABILITY
PURPOSE: To describe the steps and responsibilities necessary for maintaining the
accountability of all personnel operating at emergency incidents, drills and training
sessions.







The OIC is responsible for keeping their crews intact, maintaining a constant awareness of
crewmembers welfare and communicating with the IC.
The OIC of the apparatus is responsible to communicate with County Radio the number of
senior personnel on the apparatus including the driver (e.g., Engine 801 responding with 5).
It is the responsibility of every individual firefighter and other personnel at the incident site
to keep their supervisors informed of their activities and location.
Free-lancing, is defined as individual activities carried out independently of direct or
indirect orders from the IC, CO and/or sector officers. Free-lancing can lead to injury or
death to themselves or others and will not be tolerated. Free-lancing may result in removal
of the offender from the scene.
All crews members will remain together and under the supervision of the IC or a
Department/Company Officer.
All crews assigned to incident duties shall have a radio for communicating with the IC. A
crew is defined as 2 or more persons assigned to a specific task.
All personnel working within the Zone of Operations shall utilize at least a two-person
buddy system.
2.6.1 ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM
 The Accountability System is comprised of three types of hardware.
1. Firefighter Identification Tag: Each firefighter will be issued three
accountability tags. The tags will display a digital picture of the firefighter
and important health information and has a metal hanger. The tags, should be
attached to the firefighter's helmet or coat using the metal hanger.
2. Unit Collector Rings: One of the Firefighter ID Tags, when onboard an
apparatus, is attached to the Unit Collector Ring. The Rings have a four-inch
yellow plastic crew identification tag attached to them. The tags are as
follows:
Engine 801
Engine 804
Engine 807
Rescue 804 A & B
Rescue 805
Truck 801
Truck 807
Squad 801
3. Accountability Binder: The Unit Collector Rings are attached to the binder and
the appropriate information is displayed with the ring (i.e., Unit location)
4. The second Firefighter Identification Tag is placed into a bucket that is staged at
the area where entry is made to control an incident.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Accountability
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.6
Page 2 of 1
2.6.2 LEVEL 1 ACCOUNTABILITY
 Level 1 Accountability shall be implemented on every incident, regardless of the size or
nature.
 Upon boarding the apparatus all personnel shall remove their Firefighter ID Tag and
place it on the appropriate Unit Collector Ring.
 Level 1 Accountability shall remain in effect until the apparatus is released and has
returned to the station, or until the IC has determined that Level 2 Accountability is
necessary.
2.6.3 LEVEL 2 ACCOUNTABILITY
 The IC initiates Level 2 Accountability when he/she determines that hazardous
conditions exist or potential hazardous conditions exist.
 Upon activation of Level 2 Accountability the driver/operator of each apparatus will
collect their crew member Firefighter ID tags and place them on the turn signal.
 The IC shall assign an Accountability Officer (AO) to gather the Unit Collector Rings
from each unit at the scene and in staging. The Unit Collector Rings shall be placed on
the Accountability Binder. Next to each clip the AO shall indicate the location and
function.
 All operations performed in the Zone of Operations at any incident will consist of two or
more firefighters. It is not necessary to remain with the same crew during the incident;
however, it is recommended. Persons inexperienced with the type of situation
encountered should pair with an experienced firefighter.
2.6.4 TWO-TAG SYSTEM
 The Lancaster County Fire Chief’s SOG for the two-tag system shall be followed. See
attachment 2.5
 The Two-Tag system shall be used on all incidents in which an interior attack occurs,
entry is made into a Confined Space or entry is made into a “Zone of Operations” of an
Hazardous Materials Incident
2.6.5 THREE-TAG SYSTEM
This tag stays on each member and is placed in the inside pocket on your issued gear. It
will contain your identification information on the exterior and the center will contain
personal medical information. In the event of a medical emergency the bottom of the tag
may be cut off and the medical information inside retrieved to assist in the treatment of
the injured firefighter.

All personnel will be responsible for keeping and maintaining their individual ID tag.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Fireground Safety
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.7
Page 1 of 5
FIREGROUND SAFETY
PURPOSE: The purpose of the Fire Ground Safety guideline is to remind firefighters of
the importance of safety and identify safety issues firefighters routinely encounter.
2.7.1 POSITIONING OF APPARATUS
 Positioning of operating firefighters can severely affect the safety/survival of such
members. Personnel must use caution when placed in the following positions:
 Above the fire (floors/roof)
 Where fire can move in behind them
 Where sector cannot control position/retreat
 When involved with opposing fire streams
 Combining interior and exterior attack tactics
 With limited access--one way in/out
 Operating under involved roof structures
 In areas containing hazardous materials
 Below ground fires (basements, etc.)
 In areas where a backdraft potential exists
 Above/below ground rescue

The safety of firefighting personnel represents the major reason for an effective and
well-timed offensive/defensive decision and the associate write-off by Command.
2.7.2 FIREFIGHTER AND COMMAND CONSIDERATIONS
 We may risk our lives a lot to protect savable lives
 We may risk our lives a little to protect savable property
 We will not risk out lives at all to save what is already lost
1. When operating in a defensive strategy, operating positions should be as far from the
involved area as possible while still remaining effective. Position and operate from
behind barriers if available (fences, walls, etc.).
2. The intent is for personnel to utilize safe positioning where possible/available, in an
effort to safeguard against sudden hazardous developments such as backdraft explosion,
structural collapse, etc.
3. When operating in an offensive strategy, be aggressively offensive. An effective,
coordinated interior attack operation directed toward knocking down the fire eliminates
most eventual safety problems.
4. Due to the inherent hazards of the fire or incident scene, efforts must be made by
Command to limit the number of personnel on the fireground to those assigned to a
necessary function. All personnel shall be:
a. Positioned in Staging
b. Assigned to a task
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Fireground Safety
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.7
Page 2 of 5
c. Having completed an assignment and no other assignment is available, crews
should be assigned to Staging, Rehabilitation, or with assigned apparatus until
such time as they can be reassigned to an operation.
5. The intent of this procedure is to minimize fireground confusion/congestion and to
limit the number of personnel exposed to fireground hazards to only those necessary to
successfully control the operation. Individuals or crews shall be
restricted from
wandering about the fireground or congregating in non-functional groups. If personnel
have not been assigned or do not have a necessary function to perform, they shall be in
staging, rehab or at their apparatus.
6. In extremely hazardous situations (flammable liquids, LP gas, etc.) Command will
engage only an absolute minimum number of personnel within the hazard zone.
Unmanned master streams will be utilized wherever possible.
7. In situations where crews must operate from opposing or conflicting positions, such
as front vs. rear attack streams, roof crews vs. interior crews, etc., utilize radio or faceto-face communications to coordinate your actions with those of the opposing crew in an
effort to prevent needless injuries.
8. Ground crews must be notified and evacuated from interior positions before ladder
pipes and master streams go into operation.
9. Do not operate exterior streams, whether hand lines, master streams, ladder pipes,
etc., into an area where interior crews are operating. This procedure is intended to
prevent injuries to personnel due to stream blast and the driving of fire and/or
heavy
heat and smoke onto interior crews.
10. When laddering a roof, the ladder selected shall be one which will extend 2' - 3'
above the roof line. This shall be done in an effort to provide personnel operating on the
roof with a visible means of egress.
11. If possible, when laddering buildings under fire conditions, place ladders near
building corners or fire walls as these areas are generally more stable in the event of
structural failure.
12. When operating either above or below ground level, establish at least two (2)
separate escape routes/means where possible, (such as stairways, ladders, exits,
etc.), preferably at opposite ends or diagonal corners of the building or separated by
considerable distance.
2.7.3 SAFETY ZONES

Hot Zone The Hot Zone will be defined as any area that requires an SCBA, charged
hose line, special protective clothing, or in which firefighting personnel are at risk of
becoming lost, trapped, or injured by the environment or structure. The following
situations would be included inside the Hot Zone:
 Entering a structure reported to be on fire
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Fireground Safety
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.7
Page 3 of 5
 Operating in close proximity to the structure during exterior operations
 Confined Space
 Trench Rescues
 Building collapse
 Operating close to helicopter operations (Landing Zones)
 Extrication
THE ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM WILL BE IN PLACE. FULL TOG INCLUDING SCBA
IF REQUIRED

Warm Zone The Warm Zone will be defined as just outside of the Hot Zone where the
firefighters start their operations on the fireground. This zone is where the firefighter is
not at risk of becoming lost, trapped, or injured by the environment or structure. The
following functions could be done in this zone:
1.
2.
3.
Near fire apparatus working the incident
Laying lines
Staging
If at any time firefighters in the Warm Zone become threatened, this area would become a Hot
Zone.
FULL TOG REQUIRED. SCBA MAY NOT BE REQUIRED

Cold Zone The Cold Zone will be defined as outside of the Warm Zone where no one is
at risk because of the incident. The following functions could be done in this area:
1.
2.
Command
Rehab

All firefighters will utilize the department accountability system when on incidents.

In an effort to regulate the amount of fatigue suffered by fireground personnel during
sustained operations, OIC should frequently assess the physical condition of their
firefighters. When crew members exhibit signs of serious physical or mental fatigue, the
entire crew should be assigned to Rehab if possible. The OIC request shall indicate the
crew's position/condition, etc., and shall advise as to the need for a replacement crew.
Individual crews shall not report to the Rehab unless crew position is covered by another
crew.

It is the intent of Rehab to reduce the fatigue and trauma experienced during difficult
operations to a reasonable (and recoverable) level and is in no way intended to lessen the
individual and collective efforts expected of all members during operations.

All personnel operating on the fire ground have the responsibility to recognize situations
involving a high risk to personnel and to initiate appropriate safety measures.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Fireground Safety
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.7
Page 4 of 5

A safety officer shall be established at incidents involving an inordinate danger to
personnel. A safety officer shall be designated at any situation where it may be
advantageous to the overall safety of operations.

Structural collapse is always a possibility when a building is subject to intense fire. In
fact, if fire is allowed to affect a structure long enough, structural failure is inevitable.
a. Regardless of the age and exterior appearance of the building, the possibility exists
that a principal structural supporting member is being seriously affected by heat and
may collapse, inflicting serious injury to firefighters.
b. Example: A 100' length of unprotected steel will expand 9" when heated to 1100o F
c. In the typical fire involved building, the roof is the most likely candidate for failure,
however failure of the roof may very likely trigger a collapse of one or more wall
sections. This is especially true if the roof is a peak or dome type which may exert
outward pressure against both the bearing and non- bearing walls upon collapse. In
multi-story buildings or buildings with basements, the floor section above the fire
may collapse if supporting members are directly exposed to heat and flames.
d. Most structures are not designed to withstand the effects of fire, and can be expected
to fail if exposed to heavy fire involvement. If after 10-15 minutes of interior
operations heavy fire conditions still exist, Command should initiate a careful
evaluation of structural conditions, and should be fully prepared to withdraw interior
crews and change to a defensive strategy.
e. Truss roofs present a special hazard for fire department operations. These roofs will
handle little fire involvement and will fail early in the incident. Crews should not be
committed on or under truss roofs when heavy fire conditions are involved.

Structures have been known to collapse without warning but usually there are
indications which may tip off an alert fire officer. Action shall be taken to avert any
imminent hazard. Signs of building collapse may include:
a. Cracks in exterior walls
b. Bulges in exterior walls
c. Sounds of structural movement--creaking, groaning, snapping, etc.
d. Smoke or water leaking through walls
e. Flexible movement of any floor or roof where firefighters walk
f. Interior or exterior bearing walls or columns--leaning, twisting or flexing
g. Sagging or otherwise distorted rooflines
h. Time of fire involvement.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Fireground Safety
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.7
Page 5 of 5

The object of the search effort is to locate possible victims, not create additional ones by
neglecting the safety of the search crew.

Company officers must maintain an awareness of the location and function of all
members within their crew during search operations.

Individual search activities should be conducted by two or more members when
possible.

Full turnout gear will be utilized by all members till told to dress down by the OIC. Full
TOG in use refers to helmets in place, gear securely closed, safety glasses in place if
needed, and SCBA in use if needed.

Firefighters will remain alert at all times working on the fire ground or on an accident
scene.

Firefighters will not needlessly be put in harm’s way.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Personnel Accountability Report
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.8
Page 1 of 1
PERSONNEL ACCOUNTABILITY REPORT
PURPOSE: A personnel accountability system is a mechanism by which Department
Officers and Incident Commanders can efficiently account for all Emergency Responders
on the scene. It is important that Department Officers or crew leaders maintain strict
crew integrity in order to ensure accuracy of the accountability process.
2.8.1 INITIATING PAR
PAR’s should be taken when:
● A report of a missing or trapped Firefighter;
● Change from offensive to defensive operation;
● A sudden hazardous change such as flashover, backdraft, explosion, or collapse;
● At the discretion of the Incident Commander;
● At the discretion of subordinate levels of command within their area of responsibility;
● Any MAYDAY signal;
● An activated PASS device alarm that cannot immediately be identified
● Assuming the duties of Accountability;
● Anytime you are unaware of the function and location of a crew.
Command shall verbally contact the immediate subordinate level of command and direct a
PAR to be conducted. This shall be passed down to all levels within the Incident Command
System. The results of the PAR shall be reported to command up thorough the Incident
Command System. Once all PAR’s are given, the ICS will determine what units are
accounted for and who is in a distressed state.
2.8.2 LANCASTER COUNTY-WIDE COMMUNICATIONS
 20 minute PAR checks will be requested by the Command Officer for all incidents
where firefighters are operating in hazardous and IDLH (Immediate Danger to Life and
Health) atmospheres
 County Radio will assist the IC with PAR checks by giving them 20 minute time checks.
 The IC will need to initiate this by asking County Radio to start the 20-minute time
clock.
 This will continue until the IC informs County Radio that he does not need the 20minute time checks.
2.8.3 CONDUCTING A PAR
 The person conducting a PAR shall call each crew with tags on the accountability binder
and ask them for a PAR. (example: Accountability to Engine 804 Officer, Do you have
PAR.)
 The response should be with either an affirmative or negative (example: Engine 804 has
PAR.
2.8.4 TERMINATION
 Final verification for accountability is complete when the Accountability tags are
retrieved from the Accountability Officer. This will be accomplished when a
Department has terminated an activity and is released.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Emergency Evacuation
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.9
Page 1 of 1
EMERGENCY EVACUATION
PURPOSE: To provide a method for the rapid evacuation of the Zone of Operations in the
event the incident deteriorates and is no longer a safe environment in which to operate.

All personnel at an incident are responsible for reporting changes that forecast sudden
deterioration. These deterioration signs include, but are not limited to:
 Loss of building integrity,
 Sudden change in smoke direction, intensity or color,
 Uncontrolled ignition source with flammable or explosive vapors in the area,
 An incident involving a hazardous material,
 Any situation where personnel safety is threatened,
 Any other unsafe condition of IMMINENT danger.
2.8.1 The following procedure shall be used when an emergency evacuation is necessary:
1. The signal for a building evacuation is a verbal notification over the fireground
frequency stating “Priority” with the verbal command repeated slowly and clearly at
least twice, followed by a ten (10 second continuous air horn blast from all apparatus on
the fire ground. This signal shall denote an immediate evacuation of all personnel from
the fire building(s), interior and exterior, to a safe area outside of the collapse zone. The
air horn blast is followed by a repeat voice message over the fire ground frequency.
2. The IC shall designate a specific frequency for communications between the
command post and all sectors. All others operating on this frequency shall
immediately cease communications upon the transmission of "MAYDAY" or
"PRIORITY" or any other language indicating an emergency condition.
3. Immediately following the "emergency" evacuation order the IC will confirm with each
sector that all sectors have copied the evacuation order.
4. When evacuating under emergency conditions, the Company Officer will immediately
assemble all of his/her crew members, other personnel assigned, and retreat as quickly as
possible.
5. Once in a safe area, the Company Officer will conduct an immediate roll call of all
personnel assigned to his/her supervision.
6. The Company Officer will report the roll call results (i.e. "all accounted for, "one
firefighter missing Engine 801") to the Accountability Officer.
7. IC will record the results of the "roll call" and status of missing personnel and will
immediately transmit an additional alarm for manpower upon receipt of a "firefighter
missing" and shall notify County Control to mark the time of such notification and any
further changes in the status of the "missing firefighter" (i.e., "firefighter located,
"additional firefighters missing", "firefighter removed").
8. If conditions warrant, the IC will activate the Rapid Intervention Team (RIT).
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Mayday
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.10
Page 1 of 3
MAYDAY POLICY
PURPOSE: To prepare all firefighters and Officers on how to respond to and report an
emergency on the scene of an incident.
2.10.1 DECLARING A “MAYDAY”
When an emergency responder identifies that he/she or a member of his/her team, Is lost,
trapped, disoriented, or injured and in need of assistance, he/she shall (if possible) transmit a
verbal message on the tactical channel to COMMAND and state: “MAYDAY, MAYDAY,
MAYDAY”.
The firefighter reporting shall provide the following information:
L: LOCATION
U: Unit Number
N: Name
A: Assignment (Per Incident Management System)
R: Resources Needed
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
●
The distressed fire fighter shall remain on the tactical radio channel.
The PASS device shall be activated.
Lost or trapped firefighters shall remain together.
If lost, follow the hose line or lifeline out
Search for an exit as a group
If unable to exit, find a safe refuge
Stay Calm and conserve air
Take a horizontal position to maximize coverage on the floor area
Turn on flashlight and/or make a tapping noise
Upon initiation of the Emergency Evacuation Signal all personnel shall observe strict radio
silence, immediately evacuate the affected area and regroup in a safe area. All unit leaders shall
take a head count and report their status to their immediate supervisor. Command shall verbally
contact the immediate subordinate level of command and direct a PAR to be conducted
Each supervisor shall then, in turn report Division/Group/Branch/Section status to COMMAND.
The Safety Officer shall immediately report to COMMAND.
Should COMMAND fail to hear from any Unit/Division/Group/Branch/Section, the Safety
Officer shall be dispatched immediately to the last known position of the responsible individual.
Any additional action shall be at direction of the Incident Commander in concert with the Safety
Officer’s recommendation.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Mayday
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.10
Page 2 of 3
2.10.2 RECEIPT OF A MAYDAY
Upon receipt of a MAYDAY, COMMAND shall advise all personnel that all radio traffic must
cease.
Only radio traffic pertinent to the MAYDAY shall be permitted on the tactical channel.
Immediately conduct a Personnel Accountability Roll-Call (PAR), if the identification and
location of the lost or trapped firefighter is unknown.
Commit the Rapid Intervention Team to the most appropriate location to initiate a rescue.
Provide a BRIEF PROGRESS REPORT (BPR) to County Radio and request an additional
tactical channel for incident operations not associated with the MAYDAY event. Include a
specific notation if a RIT is deployed.
COMMAND shall notify LANCASTER COUNTY WIDE COMMUNICATIONS to announce
the conclusion of the MAYDAY event.
2.10.3 LANCASTER COUNTY WIDE COMMUNICATIONS RESPONSE TO
MAYDAY:
 Dedicate an operator to monitor the tactical channel of the MAYDAY event.
 Immediate dispatch an additional RIT and an additional ALS unit.
 If the firefighter comes up on an unassigned tactical channel, COMMAND shall be advised
and COUNTY CONTROL shall remain with the firefighter on the channel.
2.10.4 FIREFIGHTING DURING RESCUE OPERATIONS
If a missing firefighter(s) is to survive during a fire incident, the IC must keep the fire out of the
rescue area. In most cases these fire suppression efforts will need to be reinforced to prohibit
further fire spread (defensive operations). The use of large caliber handlines and master stream
devices should be considered. Adequate water supply must be obtained for reinforced fire
suppression.
2.10.5 OPERATIONS WITHIN THE RESCUE SECTOR
Chief Officer: Shall be assigned to make decisions concerning the rescue effort.
Depending on the size of the rescue area and the complexity of the
operation more than one chief officer may need to be needed to fill
additional support functions of this sector.
Safety Officer: Rescue operations are at high risk. The operation may be taking place in a
post-collapse environment. Firefighters will tend to want to freelance and
take chances that they would not normally take. A way of controlling
additional injuries is the establishment of a safety sector within the rescue
sector. This will allow the safety officer within the rescue sector to
conduct and assessment of hazards allowing the rescue sector officer to
concentrate on the rescue effort.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Mayday
Developed – January 1, 2013
2.10.6 OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
● Immediately Request Additional alarms, including EMS
● Request special tactical resources
● Open/Unlock all doors, if appropriate
● Ventilate and illuminate the rescue area
● Coordinate and control the search efforts
● Watch the structural stability of the building, if appropriate
● Media control
● Establish a frequency for emergency transmissions in the rescue sector
Section 2.10
Page 3 of 3
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Rapid Intervention Teams
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.11
Page 1 of 2
RAPID INTERVENTION TEAM (RIT)
PURPOSE: This procedure will define the response, tasks and organization of the initial
Rapid Intervention Teams (R.I.T) according to the National Fire Protection Association
(NFPA) 1500 standard.
2.11.1 RAPID INTERVENTION TEAM
● A specifically designed team (minimum of two members), designed to provide
personnel for the rescue of emergency service personnel, operating at emergency
incidents if the need arises.
2.11.2 OPERATIONS
 The objective of a Rapid Intervention Team is to have a fully equipped rescue team to
immediately react and respond to rescue firefighters. This team will be in a ready state,
on-site and staged near the command post.
 R.I.T will be established anytime firefighters are on air inside a structure, or command
deems it necessary. The R.I.T team should be established as early in the incident as
possible.
 The R.I.T Unit should only be used to provide relief for crews operating at the incident
only after the fire is placed under control and with the approval of the Incident
Commander.
2.11.3 R.I.T REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
 The following equipment is required for, but not limited to, the R.I.T sector;
 Low and high band portable radio capabilities
 Thermal Imaging Camera
 Available portable equipment
 Spare SCBA cylinder (s)
 Rope
 Forcible Entry tools
2.11.4 R.I.T FUNCTIONS
 Obtain as much information as possible about the incident (s),
 Monitor the tactical radio channel,
 Retrieve the thermal imaging camera and assure it is in a ready state,
 Evaluate the Zone of Operations (apparatus placement, points of entry, alternate doors
and windows),
 Familiar with the building (walk around to determine building condition, points of
egress, hazards, etc),
 Request additional resources if needed,
 Provide additional means of egress for roof operations or for companies operating above
the ground floor,
 Remove security bars/devices,
 Illuminate entrances and exits,
 Confirm that utilities are secure,
 Communicate the search and rescue plan,
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Rapid Intervention Teams
Developed – January 1, 2013


Section 2.11
Page 2 of 2
Notify command that the R.I.T sector is “ready”.
The RIT unit shall stand ready and intact, ready to take immediate action when ordered
to do so by the incident commander.
2.11.5 COMMITMENT TO RESCUE OF A LOST OR TRAPPED FIREFIGHTER
 Units should initially be deployed to locate injured or lost firefighters, and render aid and
assistance to the member. The R.I.T sector(s) will then report their position and
conditions to the command for deployment of appropriate rescue resources to extricate
the firefighter if necessary.
 When the R.I.T team is placed in service a replacement R.I.T team will be assigned. As
soon as this team is deployed to rescue a lost or trapped firefighter the Incident
Commander will initiate the personnel accountability reporting (P.A.R). This will be
done again when the lost or trapped firefighter is removed from the situation.
2.11.6 R.I.T SPECIAL RESCUE OPERATIONS
 High Angle Operations require a back-up team for the rescuers.
 Water Rescue Operations require a back-up boat.
 Confined Space Operations require a back-up entry team.
 High rise incident the R.I.T shall remain outside the hazard zone at least one floor below
or in the enclosed stairwell.
The size, location and complexity of the R.I.T team will be determined by the Incident
Commander based the size and type of incident.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Collapse Zones
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.12
Page 1 of 1
COLLAPSE ZONES
PURPOSE: Buildings are of a variety of construction types and the possibility of collapse
becomes more of a reality with the absence of substantial building codes in the Borough of
Columbia. It is important for the first in crew to identify construction type, roof type, etc.
and convey this information to the Incident Commander. All persons on the fire-ground
should always be alert for the signs of building failure and/or collapse. Any signs should
be immediately reported to the IC.
2.12.1 PLACEMENT
 A rule of thumb for establishing building collapse zones is to keep all nonessential personnel
at a distance of 1 1/2 times the height of the structure. For example: a 60 foot high building
will have a collapse zone of 90 feet. Apparatus should be positioned at the corners of the
building, when possible, keeping as much distance between the structure and the apparatus
as possible. At no time should apparatus be placed in front of an well involved structure.

The following factors should be considered by the first arriving unit to determine as to when
to utilize a defensive strategy:
 Burn time
 Building construction
 Involvement time

The intent is for personnel to utilize safe positioning where possible/available, in an effort to
safeguard against sudden hazardous developments such as backdraft explosion, structural
collapse, etc.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Rehabilitation
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.13
Page 1 of 1
REHABILITATION
PURPOSE: A rehabilitation (Rehab) sector shall be established in order for Firefighters
and other emergency providers to mentally and physically rest.
2.13.1 ESTABLISHING
 It is responsibility of the IC to establish a rehab. The IC should consider exposure of
personnel to adverse weather conditions, a physically or mentally exerting incident, the
duration of the incident and any other extraneous condition which may result in an overload
of stress to emergency providers.
2.13.2 REHAB SHALL OCCUR IN THE FOLLOWING INSTANCES:
 After two cylinders on all incidents when SCBA is used.
 The following are exceptions when Rehab will occur after 1 cylinder: high-rise
incidents, industrial incidents (including health care facilities), or when the ambient air
temperature is above 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
 All personnel at an incident when the ambient air is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit and
who become exposed to the possibility of frostbite will report immediately to the Rehab
Sector.
 See Appendix (5.2 & 5.3) for the heat and cold index.
2.13.3 REHAB SHALL PROVIDE FOR THE FOLLOWING:
 Physical and mental assessment of personnel
 Rest
 Hydration of personnel by the use of water. Isotonic drinks which replace Electrolytes
shall be use only after a minimum of 16 ounces of water has been ingested. Other drinks
such a coffee; soda and hot chocolate are discouraged because they slow down
absorption into the body.
 Protection from the elements
 Treatment of injured personnel and transportation of personnel requiring treatment at a
medical facility.
 Monitoring of vital signs and complete documentation
2.13.4 REHAB SHALL HAVE THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERISTICS:
 It shall be a large area
 It shall provide protection from the elements
 It shall be out of COLLAPSE ZONES
 It should be out of line on sight of the incident
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Physical Fitness and Medical Records
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.12
Page 1 of 1
PHYSICAL FITNESS AND MEDICAL RECORDS
PURPOSE: All firefighters are encouraged to maintain good physical condition in order
to effectively perform the demands of firefighting and rescue operations.
2.12.1 PROGRAM
 Yearly physicals are encouraged and the results should be directed to the Assistant
Chief-Safety. Any significant change in health should also be reported to the Assistant
Chief-Safety.

Any physical limitation which will interfere with a firefighter’s performance of duties
shall be reported to the Assistant Chief-Safety. Firefighters should obtain proper
notification signed by the treating physician.

The Assistant Chief-Safety will maintain a medical file for each firefighter. It will
contain confidential information that may be useful in the event of an emergency.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Accidents and Injuries
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.13
Page 1 of 1
NEAR MISSES, ACCIDENTS, INJURIES AND ILLNESSES
PURPOSE: To assure firefighter receive prompt and appropriate medical care and also
to assure near misses, injuries and illnesses are adequately investigated so that future
injuries are avoided.
2.13.1 POLICY
 Immediately notify a Assistant Chief – Safety, if unavailable, any Chief Officer AND
the Fireman’s Relief Association Chairman of the Examining Board within 24 hours of
the injury.
 that the injury has occurred, either by medical personnel or via a firefighter.
 shall complete the VFIS Incident Report form. If possible the form shall be completed
with the aid of a fire chief, to assure completeness.
 The Chairman of the Examining Board will see that the injured member receives the
appropriate Worker’s Compensation and Relief Insurance forms to complete. This
should be accomplished within the first 48 hours after the injury.
 All incidents (near misses, accidents, injuries & illnesses) will be investigated by the
Incident Review Board and trending will be maintained.
 The injured firefighter will fill out the forms immediately or within the first 24 hours of
notification of the incident.
 After receiving the forms the chairman of the Examining Board will review the forms
for completeness and accuracy. The completed forms will be conveyed to the proper
departments at the Borough Offices and to the Relief Association Insurance Carrier.
This should be done within 24 hours of receiving the completed forms.
 The Borough Manager will review all Workers’ Compensation forms.
 If the treating physician restricts the firefighter from work activities or issues limitations
the firefighter shall not be permitted to respond to emergency alarms or participate in
training exercises until a return to full duty is obtained
 All members will be responsible to follow Borough Workers Compensation Guidelines,
as well as any relief guidelines regarding injuries if applicable.
 If light duty is given by the treating physician, the following are some examples of
Light Duty:
a.
Assisting with BINGO
b.
Assisting department fundraisers
c.
Department membership and special meetings, relief meetings
d.
Fire Prevention functions (Unless otherwise noted)
e.
Assisting with department paperwork, typing, etc.
 Workers’ Compensation Injuries will be handled through the Borough Office of the
Borough of Columbia.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Bloodborne Pathogens and Hepatitis Immunization
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.14
Page 1 of 1
BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS AND HEPATITIS
PURPOSE: To provide a means of adequate protection from Bloodborne Pathogens in a
proactive manner through training, immunization, and the use of personal protective
equipment and the adoption of accepted practices.
2.14.1 PROVISIONS SHALL BE MADE FOR THE FOLLOWING:
 Hepatitis B immunization
 Maintaining the protective equipment necessary; including protective gloves, masks,
eye protection and disinfectant
 Establish and maintain a record system for documenting exposures and following up
with exposures
2.14.2 PRECAUTIONS SHALL BE EXERCISED WITH REGARD TO INFECTION
CONTROL:
 Artificial resuscitation shall be performed with the use of a pocket mask, microshield or bag-valve mask.
 Whenever personnel come in contact with a patient protective gloves and eye
protection shall be worn.
 All personnel that come in contact with a patient shall not eat, drink or smoke until
they have cleaned and disinfected all exposed areas.
 The same pair of gloves shall not be used for more than one patient.
 Reusable equipment that is contaminated with bodily fluids shall be decontaminated
in a chlorine water solution (ratio1:10) for a minimum of five (5) minutes. This
does not include Turnout Gear (T.O.G). Refer to section 2.15 Personal
Protective Equipment.
2.14.3 EXPOSURE
 Any person that suspects they have been exposed shall report the incident to the Fire Chief
or Duty Chief who shall complete an exposure report and immediately notify the Chair of
the Examining Board. The Chair of the Examining Board will follow-up with the person and
initiate testing if necessary. The follow-up and testing are designed to provide
confidentiality of the exposed firefighter and the patient.
Conversation of an exposure and those persons involved, other than notification purposes, is
strictly prohibited.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Personal Protective Equipment
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.15
Page 1 of 2
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
PURPOSE: Establish a system to regularly inspect protective clothing and equipment
assigned to its members, and to set standards for the maintenance of these items. Only
protective clothing issued or approved by the Fire Department shall be worn. Protective
clothing will not be modified without the approval of the Captain.
2.15.1 TURNOUT GEAR
 The fire Department will provide its firefighters with protective clothing and equipment to
safeguard them from injury when involved in fire department activity.
 Turnout gear (T.O.G) will be issued to every firefighter. The following items will be taken
into consideration when new T.O.G is being issued;
 Availability of the turnout gear in station.
 Number of emergency/non-emergency calls answered.
 Participation with fundraising.
 Training attendance.
2.15.2 MANAGEMENT OF PPE PROGRAM
 The Captain is responsible for management of the protective clothing and equipment
inspection program.
2.15.3 INSPECTIONS
 Protective clothing inspections will be conducted annually. A more frequent inspection may
be conducted on an as needed basis this inspection is intended to assure that all personnel
are provided with a complete set of protective clothing and equipment, maintained in safe
and functional condition.
 Protective clothing inspections will use the following inspection criteria to evaluate the
condition of the protective clothing. Each item will be rated in at least one of the five
categories:
SATISFACTORY – CLEAN – REPAIR – REPLACE – MISSING ITEM





EACH MEMBER OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR INSPECTING
HIS/HER PROTECTIVE CLOTHING AFTER EACH USE, AS WELL AS FOR THE
CLEANING, CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF ALL ISSUED PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT. The individual member is responsible for obtaining repairs or replacement
items, coordinated through the Captain, when needed.
 Helmets
Firefighters will wear natural tan or black helmets. No other colors will be accepted.
Chief Officers will wear white helmets or natural helmets.
Lieutenants and Fire Captain will wear natural tan or red helmet.
All helmets will have at least five fluorescent & reflective tetrahedrons on the top side of the
helmet. These tetrahedrons will be at least 1" in size.
2.15.4 REPAIR
 Protective clothing and protective equipment shall be repaired in accordance with the
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Personal Protective Equipment
Developed – January 1, 2013

Section 2.15
Page 2 of 2
manufactures requirements. If the protective clothing and equipment cannot be repaired
properly without decreasing the protective qualities, it shall be replaced.
Personal protective clothing and equipment that is damaged or otherwise defective to the
point of voiding its intended protection shall be removed from service.
2.15.5 CLEANING OF TURNOUT GEAR
 All gear cleaning will occur in house.
 Department issued T.O.G. will be cleaned within one week following the incident
requiring heavy usage. Refer to SOG 2.16.
2.15.6 SCBA QUALIFICATION
 When the member achieves SCBA qualification he/she will be assigned a SCBA
face piece. Each member will be responsible for the proper use, function and
maintenance of that SCBA face piece.

All SCBA face pieces will be cleaned after each use. The cleaning criteria will be as
followed:
 Light usage (face piece applied with minimum airflow) requires the face piece to
be cleaned with clean towelette.
 Heavy usage (face piece applied and firefighter enter contaminated atmosphere)
requires the face piece to receive total decontamination.
Refer to the cleaning and disinfecting procedure for instructions.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Gear Cleaning
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.16
Page 1 of 3
CLEANING YOUR PROTECTIVE GARMENTS
PURPOSE: Soiled protective garments will expose firefighters to toxins, poisons,
carcinogens, infectious bodily fluids, blood borne pathogens and other harmful substances
that can enter the body through ingestion, inhalation and/or absorption
2.16.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
You must keep your protective garments clean. Failure to keep your protective ensemble
clean will increase your risk of death, burns, injuries, diseases and illnesses.
Firefighters encounter various chemicals in their normal firefighting activities. These
contaminants, in addition to being hazardous, can also degrade the protective qualities of
the protective garments.
Contaminants not removed from your protective garment may present health hazards,
shorten the protective garments effective life, reduce its protective qualities and/or catch
fire. If you are unsure whether or not your protective garment has been thoroughly
cleaned, do not use them. Consult the Captain to arrange for professional cleaning.
Soiled or contaminated protective garments reflect less heat and provide less insulation
than clean protective garments. Contaminated protective garments are more likely to
conduct electricity increasing your risk of electrical shock. Moreover, contamination of
your protective garments increase the risk that they can catch fire and injure you.
Clean your protective garments at least every six months. (See NFPA Standard 1500
and SAFER, CAFER, NAFER, FIERO and "PPE Care and Use Guidelines".)
Clean your protective garments as soon as possible after an incident where it has been
soiled or exposed to blood or body fluids, tars, fuels, resins, paints, acids, by-products of
combustion or other hazardous materials. When possible, flush the protective equipment
with water at the fire scene after emergency operations are completed. This will remove
some but not all of the contaminants. Avoid spreading these contaminants beyond the
fire scene. Fire apparatus and fire stations may become contaminated by contact with
your unclean protective garments and other equipment after a fire or emergency
operation.
NFPA Standard 1581 Fire Department Infection Control Program and NFPA Standard
1971 Protective Ensemble for Structural Fire Fighting offer information on cleaning and
decontamination of protective garments.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Gear Cleaning
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.16
Page 2 of 3
2.16.2 HAND WASHING
Hand washing of protective garments should be performed in a utility sink. The water
temperature should range between 105-110 degrees F to help avoid hand burns. Protective
gloves must be worn during washing. Avoid inhaling vapors from the wash water.
You must avoid the use of chlorine bleach, water temperatures greater than 110 degrees F,
heavy abrasion and/or scrubbing, water and/or cleaning solutions with a pH greater than 10.5,
mixing flame resistant and non-flame resistant items in the utility sink.
2.16.3 MACHINE CLEANING
To prevent the spread of contamination to other laundry or clothing items, home washing
machines and public washing machines should not be used to clean contaminated protective
garments. The Fire Department provides cleaning facilities for the sole purpose of cleaning
protective garments and other protective equipment. Do not commercially dry clean.
2.16.4 HAND AND MACHINE WASHING
The outer shell should be separated, when possible, and cleaned separately from the other layers
or components of your protective garments. This will avoid spreading the contamination from
the outer shell to the other layers or components. Also, the moisture barrier will limit the flow
of water through the outer shell fabric.
2.16.5 DRYING GUIDELINES
In deciding how to dry your protective garments, you must keep two primary factors in mind:
Time constraints and the ability to minimize shrinkage.
Forced ventilation air-drying: Air-drying causes little or no shrinkage. Forced ventilation airdrying can be achieved by using fans to re-circulate air inside the drying room. The basic
drying room should include floor drains, a method to exchange the air with the outside
environment, and drying racks for hanging protective garments to provide maximum air
exposure.
You may dry protective garment without using fans or a drying room. The use of racks
providing maximum air exposure is recommended. Do not dry protective garments in direct
sunlight. DO NOT USE GARMENTS THAT ARE NOT THOROUGHLY CLEANED AND
DRY.
Do not use heat in machine drying. Such heat can cause damage to the protective garments
including excessive shrinkage and potentially cause premature failure and early retirement of
the protective garment.
2.16.6 DECONTAMINATION
If your protective garment becomes contaminated with chemical, radiological or biological
hazardous materials, special steps must be followed in handling your protective garments and
decontaminating them. Consult the Captain for instructions on T.O.G. decontamination.
Contaminated protective garments should be isolated and the contaminants should be identified,
if possible. Avoid bodily contact with contaminated protective garments.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Gear Cleaning
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.16
Page 3 of 3
2.16.7 INSPECTION OF YOUR PROTECTIVE ENSEMBLE ELEMENTS
Though most performance properties of the protective ensemble can not be tested adequately in
the field, OSHA regulations require your Department to regularly inspect your protective
ensemble and other safety equipment. The Fire Department has a systematic, routine, and
regularly scheduled inspection of your protective ensemble and other equipment. Full
documentation and records of these inspections will be kept.
2.16.8 FREQUENCY OF INSPECTIONS
Your protective ensemble should be inspected by you and the Captain upon its receipt, and
thereafter at least once a month, after each cleaning, and after each use of any kind. Your
protective ensemble should be inspected for cleanliness, contamination, heat damage, fabric,
leather, or material damage, thread or seam damage discoloration, dye loss, continued
reflectivity of reflective trip, cracks or tears, damage to reflective trim, worn areas, etc. The Fire
Department has developed and uses standards and guidelines for determining whether or not
your protective ensemble elements pass inspection and can continue to be used for fire fighting
and emergency operations.
If inspection discloses any damage or deterioration to any protective element, do not use it and
do not attempt to repair it. Consult the Captain as to the proper steps to be taken in dealing with
damaged protective element.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Firearms
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.17
Page 1 of 1
FIREARMS
PURPOSE
This procedure specifically prohibits the carrying or possessing of a weapon on or within
the Columbia Borough Fire Department property, facilities, incidents or equipment, at
any time.
2.17.1 POLICY

Within its responsibility to protect the members, citizens, public and private property,
department officers may open and search lockers, desks, bags, containers and vehicles
on department property if there is reasonable suspicion that weapons may be in the
search areas.

Law enforcement officers, and certified constables and Fire Investigators certified to
carry are exempt from this procedure.

A department officer shall be notified any time a firearm is brought into or onto fire
department grounds, facilities, incidents, functions etc.

Fire department members who are returning from hunting and respond to the station for
an incident, shall advise the OIC as soon as possible that they have a firearm in their
vehicle.

This procedure applies to all family members and visitors.

Firearms brought onto department property by members or nonmembers who are acting
in the capacity above WILL remain concealed and away at ALL times.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Public Safety Education
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 2.18
Page 1 of 1
PUBLIC SAFETY EDUCATION
PURPOSE: The provide guidance on providing fire safety education programs to the
public to educate them of the fire problems that exist throughout the community, state and
nation.

One of the most important services offered by the fire department is the education that is
provided to the public on safety.

Public safety education can come in many forms, such as:
 Fire Safety
 Water Safety
 Vehicle Safety
 Firearm Safety
 Bicycle Safety
 Poison Safety
 Fall Prevention Safety
 Smoking, Suffocation and Strangulation Safety

The committee will from hear on be known as the Columbia Community Risk Watch
Coalition.

A Public Safety Education Specialist will lead all programs developed and delivered to
any educational, civic or community organization.

Programs will be delivered throughout the calendar year upon request of the
organization.

Any calls for scheduling of public safety education should be filtered through the
committee chair. See committee poster for the chairs information.

Risk Watch partners will be requested in their respective areas of expertise.

The dress for Public Safety Education programs will be communicated by the program
leader.

While attending Public safety education programs, firefighters should act and present
themselves professionally at all times.
Standard
Operating
Guidelines
Section 3.0
Personnel
Requirements
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Training Classes
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.2
Page 1 of 2
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
PURPOSE: Training requirements are essential to assure that firefighters are capable of
performing safely and effectively at the incident scene. Firefighter abilities are based upon
the level of training successfully demonstrated. There are four levels of firefighter
training: Trainee, Driver, Firefighter and Firefighter with Specialized Training. These
were established using NFPA 1001, 1002, and 1021 as references.
3.1.1 All Levels
Must have completed the "Ride Requirement" Check-offs
Must be current with SCBA & fit testing
Must be current with the appropriate level of Hazardous Materials
Must be current with Bloodborne Pathogens training
Must be NIMS compliant
3.1.2 1Rescue Disciplines
Vehicle
B V Awareness
BV Operations
BV Technician
NFPA 1006
Confined Space
Rope & Rigging
C-Space Awareness
C-Space Operations
C-Space Technician
NFPA 1006
High Angle
Rope & Rigging
Rope I (Awareness)
Rope II (Operations)
Rope III
Rope IV
NFPA 1006
Water
Awareness
Operations
Technician
Swift Water
Ice
PA F&BC
Boat Ops
Line
Systems
3.1.3 Probationary Firefighter
No Training
3.1.4 Exterior Firefighter (18 & over)
First Aid & CPR
Hazmat Operations
Introduction to the Fire Service or equivalent
Delmar Series Modules I, II & III
3.1.5 Interior Firefighter (18 & over)
Essentials of Firefighting, FFI or equivalent
Truck I
RIT Operations
Vehicle Rescue Awareness & Operations
3.1.6 Lieutenant (minimum 3 years as a senior firefighter)
Firefighter I
1
Rescue disciplines are listed by levels of progression. The highest level is always preferred. Minimums are listed
in this document
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Training Classes
Developed – January 1, 2013
Incident Command Systems
Building Construction series
Arson Awareness
Truck II
Vehicle Rescue Technician
Operations level for the other rescue disciplines
3.1.7 Captain (minimum 4 years as a senior firefighter)
Firefighter II
Arson Investigation
3.1.8 Deputy or Assistant Chief (minimum 5 years as a senior firefighter)
Incident Safety Officer
Instructor I
Officer I
3.1.9 Chief (minimum 7 years as a senior firefighter and 2 years as a chief officer in
Columbia Borough)
Instructor II
Public Relations
Section 3.2
Page 2 of 2
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Training Classes
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.2
Page 1 of 2
TRAINING CLASSES
PURPOSE: To provide guidance to how to properly take classes and receive the
appropriate reimbursement.
3.2.1 PROGRAM
 The Columbia Borough Fire Department will pay in full, firefighting and rescue classes
relevant to the operations of the Columbia Borough Fire Department.
 Firefighters may be required at times to attend training required by the department.
 All firefighters will complete a training form for trainings completed by the firefighter
regardless of the location.
 It is the firefighter’s responsibility to assure training forms are completed for the training.
This would include trainings not taken at the Columbia Borough Fire Department but
would benefit the firefighter in performing his or her actions at the department.
 The Columbia Borough Fire Department reserves the right to refuse payment for any class,
lodging or meal vouchers.
 It is the firefighter’s responsibility to make sure a certificate or proof of attendance is
obtained from the training.
 Any training which is taken by a firefighter in which the class is completed, but a certificate
is not obtained, it will be paid for by the department for the said training.
 It will be the responsibility of the firefighter to attend any training which he or she registers
for. If the class is not completed, then the firefighter will reimburse the department.
 Firefighters are responsible to assure they have all materials and equipment needed for the
class.
 Class C uniform will be worn by all firefighters attending classes off department property
or at the discretion of the OIC. Class C uniforms may be required for certain in station
trainings.
 Certifications for classes must be copied and given to the department in order for
reimbursement.
 Some classes require hotel accommodations. The fire chief or his designated officer needs
to approve this in advance.
 It is the FIREFIGHTERS responsibility to keep receipts for classes and expenses.
 The department reserves the right to require or refuse firefighters from attending training.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Training Classes
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.2
Page 2 of 2
 Training classes are complete when the equipment and station is back in order.

While attending trainings, firefighters should act and present themselves professionally at
all times.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Live Burns
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.3
Page 1 of 2
LIVE BURN TRAINING
PURPOSE: To establish a method of providing a safe environment for firefighter to learn
while making the environment as realistic as possible. Training is essential to assure that
the crew is capable of performing safely and effectively at the incident scene. Firefighter
abilities are based upon the level of training successfully demonstrated. This was
developed using NFPA 1403 as a reference.
3.3.1 POLICY
 Prior to any live fire training, which is not conducted at an approved fire training facility
such as provided by Harrisburg Area Community College, a VFIS Live Fire Training
Checklist must be completed. See Appendix 5.2.
 The Checklist must be signed by at least two Chief Officers.
 Only firefighters approved by the fire chief may serve as fire setters or safety support
staff during live fire training.
 There must be a minimum of one individual serving as safety officer on the fire ground.
This will be the Department appointed Safety Officer, if available. If unavailable it will
be a firefighter approved by the Department Safety Officer and a Fire Chief.
 Permits are obtained by the municipality and the Department of Environmental
Protection and signed by the property owner.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Seating and Riding Requirements
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.4
Page 1 of 1
SEATING & RIDING REQUIREMENTS
PURPOSE: To ensure firefighter safety while boarding the apparatus, riding in the
apparatus and un-boarding from the apparatus during emergency and non-emergency
situations.
3.4.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
 Riding shall occur only in the designated areas. Safety restraints (seat belts) shall be used
where provided.
 Doors shall remain closed when the apparatus is in motion.
 The passenger side front seat is reserved for CO when they are available; however,
apparatus should not wait for a CO to respond to an emergency call. If not available, the
OIC will fill this seat.
 Apparatus shall be completely stopped when personnel are boarding or un-boarding. Once
the air brake is set the crew shall exit the side opposite of traffic when possible.
 At the driver’s discretion upon arriving back at the station, the air brake should be set and
the Officer in Charge (OIC) shall un-board the apparatus, proceed to the front of the
apparatus in plain view of the driver, they then signal when traffic is clear. The crew shall
remain seated while the apparatus is being parked.
 There will be no smoking or chewing tobacco while on the apparatus. There will be no open
drink containers while the apparatus is in motion.
 The exhaust tubes shall be hooked-up to apparatus only after the vehicle is parked.
 Non members are permitted to ride any apparatus in the following situations: As deemed
necessary by the CO or OIC to facilitate the completion of an incident such as transporting
emergency services personnel, evacuations, or transporting of patients. These people must
be properly secured.
 Full protective clothing shall be worn at all times when responding to incidents. This will be
donned before boarding or as soon as possible at arrival to the scene. This does not apply to
water rescue incidents.
 Drivers shall have all their PPE on board the apparatus. PPE does not have to be worn if it
interferes with the ability to drive. It is recommended that at the least bunker pants/boots be
worn while driving the apparatus.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Staffing Requirements
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.5
Page 1 of 1
STAFFING REQUIREMENTS
PURPOSE: Staffing requirements have been established to ensure there is an adequate
amount of personnel at the incident to effect firefighting and rescue operations. The
staffing levels for the apparatus listed.
3.5.1 STAFFING REQUIREMENTS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
APPARATUS
Engines
Rescues
Trucks
Boats
AED responses
MINIMUM
4
4
4
2
2
MAXIMUM
capacity of apparatus
capacity of apparatus
6
3
capacity of apparatus
*Unless under the direction of a Department Officer or the Incident Commander



All apparatus responding to an incident shall have a full crew when possible. This is defined
by NFPA 1981 as having a minimum crew of four trained personnel. For fire and rescue
emergencies calls the minimum staffing level must always be comprised of
FIREFIGHTERS or FIREFIGHTERS WITH SPECIALIZED TRAINING. The remaining
number of personnel needed to fill the crew may be TRAINEES.
Chief Officers not responding to the scene should report to the station to respond as the
officer on the apparatus; however, the apparatus should not wait for a Chief Officer if there
is a full qualified crew ready to respond.
For specialized incidents the minimum staffing level must always be comprised of
Firefighters with SPECIALIZED TRAINING. The remaining number of personnel needed
to fill the crew must be FIREFIGHTERS.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Driver Safety Program
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.6
Page 1 of 4
DRIVER SAFETY PROGRAM
PURPOSE: The purpose of this guideline is to ensure the safety of the crew and
apparatus by providing trained and competent drivers of the apparatus to all incidents.
3.6.1 ADMINISTRATION
The Driver Safety Program will be controlled by the Chief Engineers. Implementation, of
driver selection and indoctrination procedures, accident review and preventive maintenance
programs are the primary responsibilities. Having once set these into motion, it is the
responsibility of the Chief Engineers to regularly audit them to assure high levels of
performance.
3.6.2 DRIVER SELECTION AND TRAINING:
Since over 90% of vehicle accidents can be attributed to driver error, the most important
aspect of any fleet safety program is the selection of drivers. The following parts shall be
incorporated into our driver selection policy and will be kept in each driver’s personnel
record file:
 Verification of a current and valid driver’s license.
 MVR (motor vehicle record) checks completed prior to the beginning of driver training
and updated annually. This is a tool that the Fire Department can use to help reduce
accidents. Statistics have shown that drivers with a poor driving record can be depended
on to carry over these bad habits to their job related driving. MVR’s will be used to
qualify new drivers, while annual reviews will be used to determine whether existing
drivers have developed problems or bad habits. Action plans will then be developed for
addressing drivers with multiple violations and or/ accidents. This can range from
counseling, to being placed on probation, to suspension of driving privileges and
possible termination from the driving program.
 Road tests. It is important to confirm the skill levels of the driver and the results should
be documented.
 New driver probationary period.
 Must meet all of the training requirements listed in the training SOG, Appendix 5.3
To remain a qualified active driver you must drive the apparatus at least once every six
months.
3.6.3 ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

The Chief Engineers should be notified of any moving violation or accident as soon as
possible after the event, but not later than 24 hours from the occurrence.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Driver Safety Program
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.6
Page 2 of 4
3.6.4 INVESTIGATION OF AN ACCIDENT
Each driver will be held accountable for operating Department vehicle in a safe and
professional manner. Accident investigations are the key in determining the causes of
accidents. Each accident will be investigated and reviewed for cause and preventability.
Accidents will be determined to be reportable, preventable or non-preventable on the
basis of recognized defensive driving rules. A preventable accident is one in which the
driver failed to do everything reasonable to prevent the accident. He or she did not
follow the accident prevention formula: 1. Recognize the hazard. 2. Understand the
defense. 3. Act correctly in time.
For reference purposes, examples of accidents that are chargeable most of the time and
preventable all of the time using defensive driving techniques are:

Head On Collisions - The driver must remain in his or her proper lane. When
approaching vehicles veer into the driver’s lane, the driver must change lanes, slow
down or stop, when such action can be take without additional danger.

Rear End Collision - The vehicle ahead stopping suddenly is a common road hazard.
Drivers must always follow at safe distances and have their vehicles under control at all
times.

Backing Accidents – Drivers should be aware of the conditions and potential hazards
before backing.

Failed to Yield the Right of Way.

Accidents due to adverse weather conditions such as darkness, fog, rain, snow, sleet, icy
conditions, etc. - It is the driver’s responsibility to compensate for adverse conditions by
remaining alert and or slowing down.

Pedestrian accidents - Drivers should have their vehicle under control at all times and be
ready for any unusual circumstances (children playing or riding in the road, jaywalkers,
etc).
3.6.5 DRIVER TRAINING
Driver training is important and shall be ongoing, addressing the specific needs of the Fire
Department. This will include the following elements:



Orientation – Driver trainees shall be briefed on Department vehicle policy and
procedures, safety rules, accident procedures and traffic laws and ordinances.
Initial training and retraining as needed. This shall include training in safe operations,
loading, backing, vehicle inspections and changes in Federal, State and Local Laws.
Emergency Vehicle Operations Course
3.6.6 ACCIDENT REPORTING, INVESTIGATION AND REVIEW:
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Driver Safety Program
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.6
Page 3 of 4
Each driver is required to fill out a detailed accident report on all accidents in which a
Department vehicle is involved. This is located in the vehicle glove box. This should
include the following information:
 Date and time of accident
 Names of all drivers and passengers involved and witnesses to the accident
 Vehicle identification number(s)
 Location of the accident
 Brief description of the accident, photos if possible
 A copy of the police report, if available
 Description of the property damage, injuries or fatalities
 Drivers must report all arrests and traffic convictions to the Department. Repeated traffic
convictions or failure to report traffic accidents or convictions may result in disciplinary
action.
3.6.7 RECORD KEEPING:
Good record keeping is a requirement and commitment to the safe operations of the
apparatus. Drivers must fill out the log book every time after operating a Department
vehicle.
3.6.8 DRIVING TO EMERGENCY CALLS
 The driver of an emergency vehicle may proceed through a red traffic signal or a stop
sign, but only after stopping to the degree necessary for safe operation.
 May exceed the maximum speed limits so long as the driver does not endanger life or
property.
 May disregard regulations governing direction of movement or turning in specified
directions, as long as it is performed safely.
 These provisions are only granted when responding to an emergency using audible and
visible signals. Both visual and audio signals must be used together, except when no
traffic or hazards exist.
3.6.9 UPON RETURN TO THE STATION
 Allow proper apparatus cool down period.
 Perform all necessary maintenance/service upon return.
 Refuel apparatus at 5/8 of a tank.
 Assure that apparatus is ready for service.
 Fill out the drivers log book.
 Assure that the apparatus is clean and dry.
3.6.10 ADDITIONAL SAFETY INFORMATION
 Always wear a seat belt and use headlights.
 Be a defensive driver.
 Keep your eyes on the road, your mind on driving and your hands on the wheel.
 Obey traffic signs and signals.
 Do not tailgate. Never follow another vehicle so closely that a safe stop can’t be made.
 Yield the right of way.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Driver Safety Program
Developed – January 1, 2013


Section 3.6
Page 4 of 4
Drive cautiously at night and in bad weather.
Increase your following distance between other vehicles at night and
during rain, snow, sleet and fog.
 Use wipers and defrosters in rain, snow and sudden fog.
 Watch out for standing water, icy patches and sudden fog.
 Maintain a constant scanning pattern of the front, sides and rear of your vehicle to spot
potential hazards such as changes in road and traffic conditions and vehicles, pedestrians
and animals which might pull out or walk/run out in your path of travel. Scanning 1-1/2
blocks ahead in city driving and 1/4 mile ahead for highway driving will allow time to
change lanes, reposition your vehicle, slow or stop to prevent an accident. Also, be
aware of vehicles driving in your blind spots or if you are driving in the blind spot of
others. If observed, adjust your speed to move out of the blind spot area. If you observe a
tailgater behind you, increase your following distance from the vehicle in front of you.
 Where possible, drive maintaining a cushion of safety around your vehicle.
 It is recommended that you pass on the left only.
 Dim your high beam lights for oncoming traffic.
 Do not stop on the road at night unless absolutely necessary; then use lights, flashers and
arrow stick.
 Expect the unexpected and mistakes of other drivers.
 Vehicles are to be driven by authorized drivers only.
Operation of a Fire Department vehicle under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs
is strictly forbidden and is grounds for dismissal.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Officer Seat Riding
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.7
Page 1 of 1
OFFICERS’ SEAT REQUIREMENTS
PURPOSE: To list the qualifications for the firefighter to ride the officer’s seat of the
apparatus in the event a Department Officer is not at the station(s) for emergency/nonemergency calls.
3.7.1 LEVEL REQUIRED
1. The firefighter must meet the Interior Firefighter level as defined, by the Columbia
borough training standard.
2. The following Department training is a requirement;
 Report writing (in-station)
 Incident Command System
 Rope 1 minimum
 Building construction
 Confine Space training
3.7.2 OTHER TRAINING REQUIRED
 When riding this position the firefighter must have specific knowledge of the PTO,
generators, Knox Box system, cross reference books & On-Scene Explorer system,
emergency/safety lighting, and the driver/officer console of the particular apparatus.
3.7.3 RESPONSIBILITIES
 Responsibilities to include, but not limited to:
 Knowledge of the incident and hydrant locations.
 Knowledge of the crew qualifications.
 Knowledge of firefighter safety and accountability.
 Knowledge of obtaining resources.
 Evaluate the risk/benefit of each tactical maneuver.
 Communicate clearly with your crew and incident commander.
 Assure that you have the appropriate equipment with you.
 Shall always consider paths of egress, escape
 Follows the Department SOG’s.
 Assure that a R.I.T team is in place.
 Complete the reporting system (fire, vehicle, staff, etc).
 Notify county of emergency/non-emergency calls.
 Knowledge of various facility keys.
3.7.4 APPROVAL
 The approval of this position will be at the discretion of the Fire Chief and will involve an
interview with the Fire Chief and or his officers.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Station Rules
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.8
Page 1 of 2
STATION RULES
PURPOSE: To provide a facility for its members to be comfortable and give them an
opportunity to provide a service to Columbia and surrounding communities. In order
to maintain these facilities the following guidelines will be honored and followed or
disciplinary action will be taken.
**BE CONSIDERATE AND ACT PROFESSIONAL**
3.8.1 POLICY
 All buildings will be tobacco free. All tobacco products, and tobacco like products
are restricted to designated areas. Outside of the buildings, not within 20’ of an
entrance is where tobacco products will be permitted during rentals, bingo, and
certain functions. Use the provide receptacles and do not litter with your trash/butts.

Attempts should be made not to walk around in stocking or bare feet.

Turn off all lights and appliances when exiting facility.

No parking in front of apparatus bays unless you are an official police or fire
department vehicle.

Nonmembers should not be left unattended in facility if at all possible.

No dumping in department dumpster without prior permission from the board.

No tables or chairs shall be removed without authorization of the board.

Respect all department properties and facilities.

Label all food which is placed in the refrigerator with your name if you do not want
others to eat it. DO NOT leave food in the refrigerator long periods of time.

Use of department equipment from the apparatus or the maintenance room is not
permitted without authorization from the appropriate fire line officer.

No unauthorized personnel in fitness rooms.

All smoking materials should be properly disposed of in proper receptacle when on
department property.

It is responsibility of all members to keep the facilities clean.

Bunker gear is not permitted in any lounge area or carpeted areas.

Do not place feet on the furniture or walls.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Station Rules
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.8
Page 2 of 2

Lounging and napping is permitted on the furniture but no overnight sleeping in the
lounge facilities.

Do not give out member phone numbers to non members without their consent.

When answering the phone answer in the following manner:
o i.e.: Columbia Borough Fire Department, Station 807, Firefighter Smith can
I help you?

When visitors are at any station members shall act professionally.

If something is broken make sure you notify a board member.

Heating and AC will be set by the board, DO NOT attempt to adjust them.

Apparatus doors should not be left open when heat is on.

Bunkroom is for sleeping. If you are not a live in, bunking in for the night, or a
member of the bunk room committee, the room is off limits. If you are in the
bunkroom respect that others may be trying to sleep.

No horseplay!

Washing of personal vehicles is not permitted on department property.

No distasteful literature or pictures will be allowed to be displayed in the station.
This includes games, file downloads or sites on the departments’ computers.

No animals will be permitted anywhere in the station with the exception of the
apparatus floor (Police dogs and Handicap assist animals excluded).

No personal items should be left lying around the station or in the bunkroom. This
includes personal dishes in sinks etc. Department reserves the right to dispose of all
property not owned by the department that is unattended for a length of time.

If you do not plan on assisting with Bingo, you should not be in the bingo hall during
bingo.

Treat EVERYONE professionally.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Pagers
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.9
Page 1 of 1
FIRE DEPARTMENT PAGERS
PURPOSE
To provide a source of information for an organized pager distribution program at the Columbia
Borough Fire Department
3.9.1 POLICY

Every six months, firefighters will be evaluated on their responses for that time period.
If they have a department pager, and they do not respond to 20% of the calls, the fire
chief has the option of requesting the pager be returned for redistribution.

Membership in the department does not guarantee a pager will be issued to you. Active
participation in responses, fundraisers and department functions will be required before a
pager is issued.

Firefighters who are issued any pagers will be required to sign a form stating they are
responsible for them prior to them being issued.

Whenever there is a problem with the pager, the fire chief or the designated pager person
should be notified immediately, so the department can arrange to fix the problem.

If it is noted that a firefighter does not take care of their pager, the department has the
right to request the pager be returned. Repairs due to not taking care of the pager will be
the responsibility of the person to whom the pager was issued.

If the pager is lost or stolen, it is responsibility of the person who was issued the pager to
report the pager status to the chief or designated person.

Cost of pagers to be replaced will be based on current pager prices for the closest match
of the pager which is missing.

No pager will be sent for repair without authorization of the fire chief or designated
person. It will be sent to a vendor approved by the department.

Pagers will not be defaced, marked or engraved in anyway other than the department’s
markings.

No alterations to preset channels are permitted.

Firefighters who are issued pagers may not exchange pagers with other firefighters
without the authorization of the person in charge of the pager program.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Bunk-In/Live-In Program
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.10
Page 1 of 5
BUNK IN/LIVE IN PROGRAM
PURPOSE: To provide a safe, clean and functional living environment to department
members in good standing, for the purpose of increased availability and vigilant response
to emergency and non-emergency dispatches of the Columbia Borough Fire Department. .
Definitions:
 Overnight Bunker- any member, with prior approval, that utilizes the bunkroom facility
for sleeping for a period up to two nights.
 Extended Bunker – any member, with prior approval, that utilizes the bunkroom
facility for a period in excess of four nights.
3.10.1 BUNK ROOM COMMITTEE
 The Bunk-In Committee is appointed by the Board and consists of:
o One (1) Board Member
o One (1) Chief Officer
o One (1) live-in
o Two (2) ancillary members
o The Committee will periodically review bunk-in policies and procedures and
recommend changes as necessary.
3.10.2 APPLICATION PROCESS
 Member must complete appropriate application to request overnight or extended bunk-in
privileges. Applications may be found by contacting any bunk-in committee member.
 Member must submit completed application to bunkroom committee for review.
 Overnight requests must be reviewed and approved by at least one bunkroom committee
member.
 Extend Bunk-In requests will be handled as follows:
 Committee will review the application within 10 business days of receipt.
 Committee will schedule an interview with extended bunk-in candidates within 7
business days. Bunk-in policy will be reviewed with candidate.
 Committee will check references and render a decision within 5 business days.
 Committee will convey decision results to candidate
 Must acquire renter’s insurance within 15 business days of program approval. The
fire department is not responsible for any damage to personal property
3.10.3 RULES:
 All Bunk-In participants are expected to observe the following:
 Only members that meet the requirements set above will be permitted to bunk-in.
 No horseplay;
 No eating or drinking of any kind in the bunkroom;
 No smoking or tobacco products of any kind in the bunkroom;
 No use of illegal drugs is permitted at any time.
 No illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia may be brought onto department property at
any time
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Bunk-In/Live-In Program
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.10
Page 2 of 5
 Be considerate of those sleeping in the bunkroom;
 bunks will be made and general sleeping area tidy before departing company
property, except for dispatches;
 Only one person per bunk permitted at all times;
 Minimum of shorts and t-shirt are required in the bunkroom at all times;
 No alcohol of any kind may be stored or consumed in the bunkroom at any time;
 No firearms or weapons may be brought onto Company property at any time;
 No overnight sleeping in other areas of the firehouse
 Live-ins have assigned bunks - Overnight Bunkers may select remaining bunks on a
first come first serve basis;
 Portable heaters are not permitted. Fans are permitted with approval by the
Committee;
 Live-ins/Overnight Bunkers are responsible for damages to furnishings, room(s), etc
that are be attributed to them.
 All personal belongings must be kept in assigned lockers and wardrobe closet. These
areas must be odor free and organized at all times;
 Soiled laundry must be kept in the designated area;
 Department curfew is midnight for all non-members over the age of 18. Nonmembers under the age of 18 will follow the junior firefighter curfew rules
 Members that are bunking in must maintain a clean facility (Refer to Section )
 The fire company may not be your mailing address
 Bunking in does not guarantee a member a seat on the apparatus
 Harassment of any type will not be tolerated.

All live-in members must be a full time student or maintain at least part-time
employment. Part-time employment will be defined as working at least 25 hours in an
80 hour period. If they are not a full time student, and lose employment they have 30
days to find other employment, or they may be asked to leave the program.

The fire chief or designee will oversee the live-in program. All concerns regarding liveins and from live-ins will be directed to the fire chief or designee.

All live-ins must work a total of 10 hours of bingo a month. If they cannot work due to
school or work schedule, then other reasonable chores may be assigned.

Live-ins must complete assigned house chores in a timely fashion.

If a live-in plans to be out of the station for an extended period of time, they must mark
themselves on the status board that they will not be available for calls.

If a live-in is sick and does not plan to run calls, they must log themselves out on the
status board

Live-ins are expected to respond to calls if on station and not marked out of service.

If sick and the live-in doesn’t expect to respond, the live-in will mark themselves out on
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Bunk-In/Live-In Program
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.10
Page 3 of 5
the status board. This out of service can last up till 3 full days after which the live-in
must get a doctors excuse to remain on the out of service list, and continue to stay on
station.

All personal belongings should be kept in their locker(s). Live-ins should make sure
their lockers are odor free.

All live-ins should maintain good hygiene and act professional when on station or at
departmental activities. It is strongly recommended that live-ins shower regularly.

Live-ins should attempt to make as many training’s as possible.

An “Essentials of Firefighting” class must be taken within 2 years of starting in the livein program. Firefighter I certification will suffice as an alternative to the Essentials
curriculum.

Live-ins do not need to respond to calls within one hour of reporting to work or school.
Special provisions may be given if they have extended travel times to work or school.

Direct responsibility of the live-ins will be with the Bunk Room Committee.

Issues may arise during the program which may need to be evaluated on an as needed
basis. The Bunk Room Committee will use good competent judgment to handle these
situations. These decisions may deviate from this policy in the best interest of the
department.

Some medications that a live-in may be temporarily on will also alter person’s senses.
These medications and situations will be evaluated individually and restrictions set.

All live-ins must maintain and keep the fire chief or designee up to date on the following
items:
 Employment Changes
 P.O. Boxes (Must maintain a box)
 School Schedules/Work Schedules
 Emergency Contact Information

All laundry should be washed regularly and all attempts should be made to make sure all
soiled laundry including bed sheets and blankets are not offensive to others.

Anytime a live-in does not plan on using their bunk for more than 3 consecutive days, it
will be stripped of any personal blankets they have.

Live-ins should attempt to be “on duty” a minimum of at least 48 hours a week. “On
duty” is defined as time spent at the station.

A live-in is defined as someone who utilizes the fire department for their primary
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Bunk-In/Live-In Program
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.10
Page 4 of 5
residence.

This bunk-in program does not constitute a lease under Pennsylvania law and may not be
considered a permanent residence. The department via the Bunk Room Committee has
the right to remove any member or person sleeping in the bunkroom at any time.

A live-in will be given a minimum of 30 days if their status is terminated by the
department, unless expelled. Live-ins must also provide that same 30 day notice if they
wish to change their status.

If arrested, a live-in will immediately notify the Bunk Room Committee.

Guidelines for Drinking:
 If a live-in is drinking they are not permitted to run calls.
 The live-in must log themselves out on the status board when they start drinking.
 The live-in will use common sense when drinking. After drinking, they may not
respond to calls for 8 hours after they stop drinking.
 When a live-in has drinking they should limit where they are in the station to the
bunk room, the bathroom and the dining areas.
 Live-ins will not make a habit of going out and drinking consistently.
 No alcohol should be brought inside the engine rooms & crew areas of the fire
houses, or on the apparatus.
3.10.4 DAILY RESPONSIBILITIES
 Living in a dormitory environment is often challenging. Maintaining a clean, neat and
orderly facility is key to a healthy and responsible living and sharing those daily
responsibilities is an integral part of that process. The following list prioritizes the areas
to be cleaned on a daily/weekly basis. The Bunk-In Program Liaison will maintain a
listing of specific tasks to be accomplished within each category below. Assignments
will be made in accordance with the number of Bunk-In Participants in the program.
 Bathrooms and Locker rooms
 Empty trash receptacles and remove to outside dumpster
 Kitchen/dining areas
 Lounge area
 Training Room
 Engine Room
 Stair towers
 Inclement weather:
 Remove snow from walks in front of the station and the property.
 Salt outside entrances and walks in front of the station and the property.
3.10.5 RESPONSIBILITY
 All members in the live in program are charged with the responsibility of acting
professional and following the established guidelines. Living in a dormitory atmosphere
requires each member to respect the needs of others, not just themselves.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Bunk-In/Live-In Program
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.10
Page 5 of 5
3.10.6 ELIGIBILITY
 All prospective live-in program candidates must meet with the Bunk Room Committee
prior to being accepted in the live-in program.

The Bunk Room Committee will make the determination if the candidate is able to
participate in the live-in program. This determination will be based on professionalism,
hygiene, attitude and willingness to follow instructions to name a few.

If accepted, the Bunk Room Committee will notify the prospective applicant prior to
applying to membership. This does not guarantee membership in the department; just
that if accepted they will be eligible for the live-in program.

To be eligible for the live in program the applicant must be 18 years of age or meet the
commonwealth’s criteria for an emancipated minor.

If applicant is accepted for the program, they will go through the standard application
process of the department.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Junior Firefighter Rules & Regulations
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.11
Page 1 of 1
JUNIOR FIREFIGHTER RULES AND REGULATIONS
PURPOSE: To ensure guidelines that provide for the safety of the Junior Firefighters
while giving them a foundation on which to learn the science of firefighting.
3.11.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
 Juniors, who are checked off on the apparatus dispatched, will follow the first on first out
(FOFO) rule for riding apparatus to the scene, in the spaces allocated. They will be seated
and wearing a restraining device at all times while the apparatus is in motion.
 Juniors shall not be permitted to participate in activities within the established “Zone of
Operations.”
 While on the scene of an incident Junior Firefighters will remain in the safe zone of
operations and will assist with support functions. They should always remain on the cold
side of an incident while hazards still exist. Once an incident has been deemed to be safe,
then Junior Firefighters accompanied by a Chief Officer may observe areas determined to be
non-hazardous.
 They shall obey all orders given by a senior member as long as it does not jeopardize their
health and safety. If directed to perform something that the junior determines to be unsafe
he/she should immediately notify the Department Officer in Charge (OIC) of the incident.
 On emergency and non-emergency calls, Juniors will stay with the apparatus unless
authorized by the officer, or when not available, the driver of the apparatus.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Training Files
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.13
Page 1 of 2
ELECTRONIC MEDIA POLICY
PURPOSE
To provide a guideline for computer usage, internet access via the wireless network
provided, regardless if on a department owned computer.
3.12.1 POLICY
It will be policy of the Columbia Borough Fire Department to make at least one computer
available to members to access department operational guidelines. Computer access at the
department is a privilege and should not be taken for granted. Following guideline will be
followed when using a department computer or accessing the internet via wireless network
at the station.
 Keep the computer room clean and organized at all times
 No drinks near any department computer equipment.
 Department computers are for department operations. There will be no downloading of
games or programs without proper approval.
 There will be no viewing or downloading of any offensive material, this includes but is
not limited to distasteful jokes, sexually based pictures jokes, nudity, pictures etc.
 Be considerate of others waiting to get on the computer(s).
 Non-members are not permitted usage of department computers. If a non- member
brings a wireless computer to the station and accesses the department’s wireless system,
the person allowing the non member in the station is responsible for what that person is
viewing.
 Charging to department phone bills will not be permitted, regardless if the member
intends to reimburse the department back. If caught doing so you will be removed from
the computer and disciplinary action will be taken.
 No non-department owned hardware including printers, scanners, web cams etc., may
hooked up to department computers without permission.
 Harassment via a computer will not be tolerated. Sending harassing e-mails via the fire
departments computers or other electronic mediums will not be tolerated.
 If a computer is not functioning appropriately, DO NOT attempt to repair it without
permission to do so.
 If downloading personal information, download to an external stick or drive. DO NOT
download to the department computer’s hard drive.
 Laptop computers will not be removed from designated areas without permission.
 Current settings on department computers will not be changed without permission.
 Department printers and copiers will not be abused. Printing and copying personal
information will only be done with proper permission. This includes utilization of the
departments fax machine.
 Utilization of the department fax/copiers or printers will only be with permission. Any
one making a long distance fax with permission will reimburse the department the price
of the fax.
 Prohibited computer usages include, but are not limited to:
a. Extensive personal use of the internet for any non fire department- related purposes
b. Unauthorized downloading and distributing of copyrighted materials (e.g. music,
pictures or other proprietary information).
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Training Files
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.13
Page 2 of 2
c. Downloading or copying music, including music obtained legally, for non fire
department purposes.
d. Unauthorized reading, deleting, copying, modifying, or printing of electronic
communication of another user.
e. Using the departments electronic connections for private gain or profit (e.g. online
gambling, personal business, etc.).
f. Instant messaging through public service providers. (e.g. Twitter, AOL, Yahoo, MSN,
etc.).
g. Personal software, which allows peer to peer communications between people. (e.g.
online chat, KaZaA, Skype, Facebook, file sharing, etc.).
h. Soliciting for political or other non-fire department uses not otherwise authorized
i. Non-fire department related streaming media (e.g. listening to internet radio stations).
j. Using department computers for political purpose, including voting.
k. Sending or forwarding, chain letters, or mass mailings.
l. Theft and/or forgery (or attempts) of messages or electronic documents.
m. Using, accessing, or transmitting pornographic or sexually explicit materials,
offensive threatening, racial, or hate language or images.
n. Engaging in any form of harassment, whether sexual or otherwise, or sending any
unwelcome personal communication. It is the perception of the recipient that prevails,
not the intention of the sender.
2. Privacy and Monitoring
 Between the department and its firefighters and other individuals using the electronic
property or electronic communication systems, the individual user has no expectation of
privacy.
 By using the department’s electronic property or electronic communications system,
each user acknowledges that the department may monitor all such uses.
 The department reserves the right to do so without notification to monitor the content of
department electronic property, electronic communications or internet communications.
3. Firefighters should be aware that they are responsible for any information that they generate
or distribute through the fire departments electronic system.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Training Files
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.13
Page 1 of 2
PERSONNEL TRAINING FILES
PURPOSE
To provide a standard guideline for firefighters and officers regarding personnel files and
training files.
3.13.1 POLICY
Personnel and training files are the property of the Columbia Borough Fire Department. The
Columbia Borough Fire Department reserves the right to refuse and or charge a fee to any
organization who requests copies of the files which are owned by the department.

Training files will be maintained by the Office of the Fire Chief by the Assistant Chief Training.

Originals of training certificates should not be placed in the training file. It is the
firefighter’s responsibility to assure a copy of the certificate is given to the department
for his or her record.

If an original certificate is placed in the file due to the firefighter not providing a copy,
or the firefighter not picking up a certificate from a class, that certificate now becomes
part of the department owned file.

Personnel files are confidential and shall be kept in a locked room or office.

Firefighter may view and copy their training files at request. These files will not be
removed from the station at any time.

If an original certificate is in the file, and the firefighter realizes this, they may request to
exchange the certificate with a copy.

It is the firefighter responsibility to keep the department up to date on current
certifications, drivers, licenses, etc.

All junior firefighters must have a current working paper on file

Falsification of any file is in violation this policy, and disciplinary action will be taken.

Personnel and training files can only be reviewed and/or copied while the Assistant
Chief – Training and the firefighter are together.

Firefighters may only view and/or copy their own file.

The Columbia Borough Fire Department reserves the right to refuse any person or
organization copies of the file.

It will be the responsibility of all firefighters to make sure there personnel and training
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Training Files
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.13
Page 2 of 2
files are current and accurate. Any action taken by the department regarding a file or
lack of information in the file is the responsibility of the firefighter to assure the file
contains accurate information.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Telephone Usage
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.14
Page 1 of 2
TELEPHONE USAGE
PURPOSE: To provide a guideline for the proper procedures when using and or
answering the telephone system at the Columbia Borough Fire Department. This will
insure a positive image is displayed to the community when answering the telephone and
taking messages. This will also assure proper handling of long-distance / collect calls, and
fax machine usage.
3.14.1 TELEPHONE ANSWERING
 All members will answer all telephone calls in a polite and professional
manner.

The acceptable greeting to be used will include: The Columbia Borough Fire
Department:
Good Afternoon the Columbia Borough Fire Department, Station 807,
Firefighter Smith may I help you?
3.14.2 MESSAGE TAKING
 If it is necessary to take a message, all pertinent information will be
gathered.

Information will include: Date and Time of message, Caller’s name and
phone number, Name of message recipient, Name of message taker, content
of message, and urgency of the message.

Completed messages will be relayed to person ASAP, to assure they are
received by the proper personnel.

Urgent messages pertaining to the fire department will immediately be
forwarded to the proper personnel via the telephone.
3.14.3 LONG-DISTANCE / COLLECT CALLS
 No long-distance calls will be made without prior approval from the trustees
or fire chief, except in the event of an emergency.

No collect calls will be accepted without prior approval from the fire chief or
trustees, except in the event of an emergency.

Any long-distance calls made or collect calls accepted, whether pre-approved
or in an emergency, will be properly documented immediately following the
call.
3.14.4 FAX MACHINE
 The fax machine is for Department use only, unless pre-approved for
personal use by the fire chief or trustee.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Telephone Usage
Developed – January 1, 2013

Section 3.14
Page 2 of 2
All faxes sent will be properly documented on the form located by the fax
machine.
3.14.5 GENERAL PHONE USAGE
 Phone usage shall not be abused. Phone calls should be limited incoming
and outgoing.

Personal phone calls should not last longer than 5 minutes

Phone cords should NOT be stretched from phone area.

Department phone numbers SHOULD NOT be used on employment
applications, credit card applications, etc.
i. Main fire department phone number is 717-684ii. Fax number is 717-684-

Department reserves the right to restrict, limit or refuse use of department
phones if member is known to abuse privilege.

No personal member information will be given to non-members. This
includes phone numbers, addresses etc.

All phone calls from the press regarding incidents will be directed to the fire
chief.

All requests for incident information will be directed to the fire chief.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Discipline
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 3.15
Page 1 of 1
DISCIPLINE
PURPOSE: These Standard Operating Guidelines are designed to be a guide to
performance of the Columbia Borough Fire Department. Failure to follow these
guidelines will result in an investigation of the circumstances and possible disciplinary
action. Disciplinary action will be progressive and will depend upon the infraction to
determine what category of discipline will be assigned.
3.15.1 THE CATEGORIES ARE:
1. Category A
 Written warning
 30-day suspension
 90-day suspension
 Expulsion
2. Category B
 30-day suspension
 90-day suspension
 Expulsion
3. Category C
 90-day suspension or indefinite suspension
 Expulsion
3.15.2 ADDITIONAL INFRACTIONS
 In addition to violations of the Standard Operating Guidelines, there are other acts
deemed necessary to initiate disciplinary action (violations of the Code of Ethics).
Some of these are:
 Unprofessional behavior
 Crimes against the community and/or the Fire Service
 Insubordination
3.15.3 REVIEW
 A review must occur between 2 Chief Officer’s to issue immediate discipline within
24 hours.
Standard
Operating
Guidelines
Section 4.0
Response
Guidelines
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Alarm Response
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.1
Page 1 of 2
ALARM RESPONSE
PURPOSE: Alarm response policies have been developed to ensure safe and efficient
response of firefighters to the station and to incident locations.
4.1.1 PERSONAL VEHICLE
 Personnel should report to the fire station, not to the incident location, for emergency
calls. This will ensure the apparatus is properly staffed and eliminate congestion at the
incident location.
4.1.2 EXCEPTIONS:
1. The Duty Officer (DO) has the option of responding to the scene.
2. Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT’s) and Paramedics are permitted to stop at the
scene if the incident requires their specialized training and if the incident is between
their location and the station. EMT’s/Paramedics should not go out of their way in order
to stop at the scene.
4. The OIC directs personnel to respond to the scene. Personnel should park their vehicles a
minimum of two blocks from the scene in order to ensure access for emergency
apparatus
4.1.3 ADDITONAL INFORMATION
 The use of four-way flashers and blue lights not permitted while responding to the station.
 Personnel should be conscientious of their speed, shall not run stop signs and shall not run
traffic signal red lights.
 Red Lights and sirens are to be issued by the Department to Chief Officers only in order to
respond to the station or to the scene of emergency calls.
 Driving through parking lots is prohibited unless prior permission is granted.
 Traveling the wrong way on a one-way street is prohibited when responding to the station
for calls.
 Responding firefighters will park sensibly at the firehouse. Firefighters will not park that
other firefighters, visitors, bingo players, or hall rental people are not able leave when
necessary
4.1.4 EMERGENCY RESPONSE
 While responding to the scene in fire Department apparatus the following policies
shall be adhered to:
 Obey the Pennsylvania State Vehicle Motor Code.
 Proceed through an intersection, which have traffic lights or stop signs only after the
driver has determined that all other traffic has halted and will not jeopardize the
safety of the crew.
 When responding to an incident at an emergency rate, all emergency lights and
audible siren shall be operated.
 Drivers will take the safest most efficient route to the scene keeping in mind, other
apparatus responding, incident location, hydrant location, etc.
 Non-Emergency response means the driver shall discontinue use of emergency
lights, audible siren, proceed at the posted speed limit and come to a complete stop at
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Alarm Response
Developed – January 1, 2013


Section 4.1
Page 2 of 2
all traffic lights and stop signs.
If the response time clock has gone into the fifth minute and you still do not have a
crew, then you shall notify the Incident Commander (IC) to get a determination on
whether or not to respond, at the discretion of the OIC.
Only the apparatus requested on the dispatch shall respond on the call. If the
specified apparatus cannot respond for any reason, then the IC shall be notified to
determine whether to cover the apparatus or have another piece of apparatus respond.
4.1.5 RESPONSE ORDER
The normal response order for a fire incident unless otherwise directed by the officer in
charge (OIC).
 1st Engine
 Truck
 2nd Engine
 Rescue
 3rd Engine
4.1.6 NONEMERGENCY RESPONSE
The below list also identifies other responses which will be non emergency unless the
OIC states otherwise.
 Spill Control
 Public Service calls
 Alarm Bells - Reported False
 Automatic Alarms - Reported False
 Assist the Police Department
 Lifting Assists (Unless stated otherwise)
 Transfer Assignments
 Body Recoveries
 Pole, Wire & Transformers Calls
 Any incident the OIC feels is non emergency
4.1.7 POSITIONING OF APPARATUS
Positioning of operating firefighters can severely affect the safety/survival of such
members. Personnel must use caution when placed in the following positions:
 Above the fire (floors/roof)
 Where fire can move in behind them
 Where sector cannot control position/retreat
 When involved with opposing fire streams
 Combining interior and exterior attack
 With limited access--one way in/out
 Operating under involved roof structures
 In areas containing hazardous materials
 Below ground fires (basements, etc.)
 In areas where a backdraft potential exists
 Above/below ground rescue
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Fire Scene
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.2
Page 1 of 2
FIRE SCENE
PURPOSE: The purpose of this guideline is to ensure the safety of the personnel, provide
effective placement of apparatus and allow apparatus to effectively operate.
4.2.1 APPARATUS PLACEMENT
 Always keep all apparatus out of the collapse zone (1 1/2 times the height of the
involved structure. See “Collapse Zones” for more detail). The first arriving engine
shall proceed to area of the structure(s) of the reported incident. This engine should lay
a supply line from a hydrant, if at all possible. All other engines will hold at the nearest
hydrant until given further instructions. The rescue will remain 100 feet away or at the
nearest intersection until instructed otherwise by the Incident Commander (IC). All
apparatus shall always keep the lane opposite side of the structure clear for truck
company operations.
 At vehicle and trash fires apparatus should be placed 100 foot from the scene, attempting
to keep the apparatus uphill and upwind.
1. TRINITY HOUSE APARTMENTS
 1st arriving engine company – establishes a water supply and charges the
standpipe on East side of the building. Perform primary Search and Rescue
and/or fire suppression on the fire floor.
 2nd arriving engine company – takes the hydrant at 4th and Mill Streets and
supplies the standpipe on the West side. Back-up 1st crew with primary
search and/or suppression.
 Truck company – shall place itself accordingly to its assigned location.
Establishes PPV in the East stair tower and provide the assigned ventilation
function under the direction of either the IC or the Suppression Supervisor.
 Rescue company – shall place itself according to its assigned location.
Establishes PPV in the West stair tower and performs primary Search and
Rescue and/or fire suppression on the fire floor or the floors above the fire
under the direction of either the IC or the Suppression Supervisor.
 3rd arriving engine company – Takes the hydrant at 5th & Mill Streets and
performs the assigned duties under the direction of the IC or the Suppression
Supervisor.
2. SAINT PETER APARTMENTS
 1st arriving engine company – establishes a water supply and charges the FD
connection on northwest side of the building. Performs primary Search and
Rescue and/or fire suppression.
 2nd arriving engine company – takes the hydrant at 4th and Union Streets.
Back-up 1st crew with primary search and/or suppression.
 Truck company – shall place itself accordingly to its assigned location.
Establishes PPV in the North stair tower and provide the assigned ventilation
function under the direction of either the IC or the Suppression Supervisor.
 Recue company – shall place itself accordingly to its assigned location.
Establishes PPV in the southwest stair tower and performs primary Search
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Fire Scene
Developed – January 1, 2013

Section 4.2
Page 2 of 2
and Rescue and/or fire suppression on the fire floor or the floors above the
fire under the direction of either the IC or the Suppression Supervisor.
3rd arriving engine company - Takes the hydrant at 4th & Cherry Streets and
performs the assigned duties under the direction of the IC or the Suppression
Supervisor.
3. COLUMBIA HEALTH CENTER
 1st Engine – Main Entrance (Side A)
 2nd Engine – Side B
 Truck – Side A
 Rescue – Seventh Street between Poplar and Maple Streets
 3rd Engine – Side D
4. SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY REHABILITATION & NURSING
 1st Engine – Main Entrance (Side A)
 2nd Engine – Hydrant in rear of the building (Side C)
 Truck – Side of building where reported incident is located
 Rescue – Parking lot at main entrance (side 1)
 3rd Engine – Side D
5. COLUMBIA PLAZA
 1st Engine – Establishes a water supply, lays a line to the adjacent structure of
the fire building.
 2nd Engine – Establishes water supply on the opposite side of the 1st engine
lays a line to the adjacent structure.
 Truck - Front of building where reported incident is located
 Rescue – Parking lot (scene lighting)
 3rd Engine – Takes the hydrant @ 10th & Central Streets and performs the
assigned duties under the direction of the IC or the Suppression Supervisor.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Multi-Unit Dwellings
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.3
Page 1 of 1
MULTI-UNIT DWELLINGS
PURPOSE: The purpose of this guideline is to establish effective, efficient & safe
utilization of personnel, apparatus and equipment when within the designated area of
operations of an emergency incident.
4.3.1 PROCEDURE
 The annunciator panel shall be checked by the first arriving crew. County
Control shall be notified to release the Knox system key.
 Primary evacuations and search and rescue should initially be performed on the fire
floor, the floor above, and the floor below the fire.
 Elevators shall be used according to elevator rescue practices using Phase 2 control.
 Doors to the apartments and hallway doors that access the stair tower(s) shall remain
closed during the incident.
 Charging of the standpipes shall occur one floor below the fire floor.
 When the exact location of the incident is obtained, it should then be communicated to
the IC. The IC will then announce to all units this location.
 Officers who are placed or relocated to other assignments shall be communicated to the
IC.
 Enter the building through the designated stair tower (when applicable).
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
High Rise Buildings
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.4
Page 1 of 1
HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS
PURPOSE: The purpose of this guideline is to ensure the safety of the responders,
occupants and the general public in emergencies that specifically occur in high-rise
buildings.
4.4. DEFINITION
 The definition of a high-rise building shall be a building with 4 or more stories. Due to
the nature of these buildings we have developed specific guidelines.
4.4.2 PROCEDURE
 There shall be an interior staging sector, for both personnel and equipment. It shall be
established 2 floors below the fire floor. This should consist of qualified SCBA/interior
firefighters.
 Personnel who are sent inside the building shall proceed to the interior staging area.
No firefighter shall block or assemble in the stair towers unless it is momentary for the
advancement of suppression lines or equipment.
 Elevator Usage: See Elevator usage/ Rescue (4.14)
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Trash/Refuse and Vehicle Fires
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.5
Page 1 of 1
TRASH/REFUSE & VEHICLE FIRES
PURPOSE: The purpose of this guideline is to ensure the safety of the responders and the
general public from the dangers that exist or are created when responding to emergencies
that involve fires from burning or smoldering trash/refuse and vehicle fires.
4.5.1 PROCEDURE
 For these types of incidents all apparatus shall be placed a minimum of a 100 feet from
the scene, attempting to keep upwind. The first arriving apparatus shall proceed with
suppression with the other units holding at a hydrant until given further instructions by
the IC.
 Dumpsters will be filled with water to a level above the material contained within the
container to eliminate re-burns.
 After exposures are protected and the fire is extinguished, all attempts will be made to
preserve the scene. Trash cans and dumpsters are often the target of arsonists.
 Care will be taken to make sure all dumpsters on wheels are secured during the
operation.
 Moving burning dumpsters or trash cans should be avoided if possible.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Evacuations of Residents at an Incident
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.6
Page 1 of 1
EVACUATIONS OF RESIDENTS AT AN INCIDENT
PURPOSE: The purpose of this guideline is to ensure the safety of the occupants and the
general public in emergencies that require evacuation and re-location out of the area
where danger exists. Situations may include: gas leaks, hazmat incidents, fires, and
natural disasters.
4.6.1 PROCEDURE
 Notify County control of your intent and have them notify the Fire Chief (if not on the
scene) and a Representative from Columbia Emergency Management.
 Persons evacuated shall be sheltered at the closest accessible facility (the Fire
Department, a church, or a service organization) .
 Long-term provisions for evacuations will be the responsibility of the Emergency
Management Agency.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Fire Hydrants
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.7
Page 1 of 1
FIRE HYDRANTS
PURPOSE: The fire service in this borough relies on a private water department to
supply water for fire suppression, training, and public service. For these reasons it is
important to have and maintain a positive working relationship.
4.7.1 PROCEDURE
 The Incident Commander (IC) shall notify the water department as soon as possible,
after determining that a hydrant will be opened. Request that the water department send
an “On-Call” employee to the scene, if possible. This person will be able to help us with
system layout and any problems that we may encounter.
 After the use of a hydrant it will be visually inspected to assure that it is in proper
operating condition.
 The use of hydrants for training will take place at the hydrant at the bottom of Walnut
Street by the Columbia Water Department.
 When using a hydrant for public service you shall first obtain the name and address of
the resident. The resident will need to make arrangements with the Columbia Water
Department about picking up a meter. Be sure to flush the hydrant before attaching the
meter.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Investigations
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.8
Page 1 of 1
INVESTIGATIONS
PURPOSE: The purpose of this guideline is to ensure the safety of the responders,
occupants and the general public in emergencies that involve the wide scope of
investigations.
4.8.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
 If the substance suspected is a natural gas, gasoline, or propane keep all apparatus at
least one full block away from the scene, with the engines holding at hydrants.
 Monitoring should be placed into service to determine the location and concentration of
the hazard.
 On an auto alarm, smoke investigation, or a smoke detector activation follow the
protocol for structure fires.
 Any fire that involves an incendiary fire, attempted incendiary fire, or a juvenile fire
setter, the Fire Chief shall be notified as soon as possible.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Knox Box System
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.9
Page 1 of 1
KNOX BOX SYSTEM
PURPOSE: To obtain rapid entry into establishments that has installed this high
security system. This enables the fire department to carry a single key that will gain
access into any participating business or private residence while maintaining control of
the entry.
4.9.1











PROCEDURE
As soon as possible after responding to an establishment with a Knox Box System,
request County Control to activate the tone for the Knox Box. The vehicle radio must be
set to 33.64 for proper activation. After the tone is activated, verify the green light is lit
on the decoder box. Turn the key to the release position (quarter turn to the right) and
remove. If this does work, request to county to activate the tone again.
Upon arrival, the officer of the apparatus shall go to the location of the Knox Box to
open it to get the required keys to access the area of alarm. (Note: If an Annuciator
panel exists, verify the area of the alarm.)
The officer will be responsible for all keys taken out of the box.
Upon completion of the incident, the officer shall confirm that all keys, lists, etc., have
been returned to the box and that it is properly locked.
When the officer returns to the apparatus, the driver and the officer will both verify that
the Knox Key is safely returned to the decoder.
If the building owners or agents are not immediately available to open the premises in
time of emergency, then forcible entry procedures may and will be used to assure the
emergency is handled properly if a Knox box is not present.
The Fire Department will keep a list of all participating businesses, residences, stores
etc. with lock boxes. See Appendix ____
The only keys to open Knox lock boxes will be carried in the Knox Box of the Columbia
No. 1 Fire Department apparatus and the Fire Chief will have a master key for lock
boxes.
Once the box is delivered the owner may install the box or request the assistance from
the fire department. Recommendations for box installation are as follows:
 The box is to be installed between five and six feet above the floor
 The box is to be installed as close to the door or entrance being utilized by the fire
department as possible.
 The Fire Department will not install a box without the owner present.
It will be noted in the incident report if a Knox Box was utilized to gain access to a
building.
Building owners will be notified by LCWC or the fire department if the fire department
utilized the Knox Box to gain entrance to their building.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.10
Page 1 of 1
MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT (MVA)
PURPOSE: The purpose of this guideline is to ensure the safety of the responders
and the general public in emergencies that involve a motor vehicle accident from the
dangers of the accident, weather conditions, traffic or other existing hazardous
conditions.
4.10.1 APPARATUS PLACEMENT
1. At a Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) all apparatus will remain at the following
distances:
 50 feet if no or minimal hazards
 100 feet if involving fire
 2500 feet if involving hazardous materials
 2nd standing utility pole when utility poles are downed
 Allow for the movement of Emergency Medical Services vehicles.
4.10.2 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
 In addition to the firefighter ensemble additional PPE will be worn. This shall consist
of safety glasses and earplugs if around operating machinery.
4.10.3 OPERATIONS
 Approach and remain uphill and upwind from the incident.
 When poles/wires are down keep occupants in vehicle and assume everything is
energized until the proper authorities determine otherwise.
 Gain site control and scene safety of the incident.
 Eliminate all hazards.
 Whenever a vehicle still has occupants inside, crib the vehicle to gain stabilization.
 Protect all patients involved from further bodily harm with blankets and tarps.
 When disentanglement is necessary, the setup for the Hurst System is as follows,
unless requested otherwise, by the OIC:
1 – Spreaders
2 – “O” Cutters
3 – 30” Ram

Personnel assigned for fire protection will remain with the task until relieved. If
fuel is leaking wear splash protection equipment and attempt to control hazard. All
accidents within Columbia Borough limits must have a full accident report filed. The
use of a camera to take photographs is encouraged.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
MVA Engine Company Ops.
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.11
Page 1 of 2
ENGINE COMPANY OPERATIONS AT MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENTS
PURPOSE: To provide an operational guideline for fire department engine company
operations at motor vehicle accidents.
4.11.1 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
 The firefighters within the “Zone of Operations” as defined above shall wear full
protective equipment.
 Full personal protective equipment consists of the following elements:
 Bunker Pants
 Turnout coat
 Boots
 Helmet
 Gloves
 Safety glasses or goggles (Face shields are not an acceptable substitute) if not
providing fire protection.
 Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA); if personnel are providing fire
protection/suppression.
 Class II Safety Vest for those not wearing SCBA
4.11.2 OPERATIONS
 When the Engine Company arrives on location first, it shall isolate the scene.
 Upon arriving at the incident report will given in the following fashion being sure to
include the following information: number of vehicles involved, extent and number of
injuries.
E-801: County from Engine 801.
LCWC: Engine 801
E-801: On the scene Third and Chestnut, we have a three vehicle accident with
blocking, fluid on the roadway, appears to be 1 injury.




 This report should be given if an OIC or Chief Officer has not arrived at the scene.
The Engine Company shall provide a status report for the Rescue Company.
Firefighters shall provide fire protection for each vehicle involved in the accident. When
a fire exists or patient(s) are still in vehicles, a foam line must be placed in service. If a
foam line is not necessary, fire protection may be accomplished with a dry chemical or
carbon dioxide extinguisher. Certain vehicle models have engines constructed of
combustible metals. These vehicles require the use of a Class "D" fire extinguisher.
Apparatus should be placed in a defensive and protective manner for all crews operating
on the accident scene. Shutting down the roadway completely for firefighter safety is
acceptable, but all attempts should be made to open to roadway ASAP or work with the
police department to assure traffic control is in place.
Always position apparatus to protect the scene, patients, emergency personnel, and
provide a protected work area. Where possible, angle apparatus at 45 degrees away from
curbside. This will direct motorist around the scene. Apparatus positioning must also
allow for adequate parking space for other fire apparatus (if needed), and a safe work area
for emergency personnel. Allow enough distance to prevent a moving vehicle from
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
MVA Engine Company Ops.
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.11
Page 2 of 2
knocking fire apparatus into the work areas.
The initial company officer (or Command) must assess the parking needs of later-arriving
fire apparatus and specifically direct the parking and placement of these vehicles as they
arrive to provide protective blocking of the scene.
 Always look before stepping out of apparatus, or into any traffic areas. When walking
around fire apparatus parked adjacent to moving traffic, keep an eye on traffic and walk
as close to fire apparatus as possible
 The extinguisher will remain in position as long as the engine is on the scene or till the
vehicles are removed. A firefighter in SCBA should stay with the extinguisher at all
times.
 Any firefighter not given an assignment shall remain with the apparatus.
 Patients should not be removed from vehicles, prior to being properly packaged, unless
imminent danger exists. If such conditions exist, patients should be removed by
medically trained personnel if possible.
 Patient contact should be initiated; however, firefighters should not enter or move
vehicles until they are properly stabilized the vehicle.
 Crib all vehicles which patients are still in vehicle. A cribbing officer will be appointed
to watch the cribbing while extrication is taking place. The cribbing officer will converse
with the extrication personnel to assure cribbing is sufficient. The cribbing officer can be
a firefighter if necessary.
 When the rescue company arrives, if entrapment close coordination with the rescue
personnel will be established to assure all patients are removed in the safest way.
 When adverse weather conditions are present, a tarp will be placed over medical
personnel while extricating patients.
 All leaking fluids from the vehicle (s) should be controlled by the use of oil-dry or other
absorbent material.
 Vehicles should not be de-powered unless authorized by the Officer In Charge of the
Rescue Company.
 If possible all trunks and compartments will be checked. If driver is present, there
permission will be required unless you have cause to think there is something present in
compartment which will be detrimental to the firefighters safety.
 All debris or absorbent must be removed from the roadway. This should be done only
after the police have completed their investigation and have authorized the cleanup.
 Insurance and owner information necessary for reports should be obtained from the police
department two days following the accident. Do not question the patients.
 All body fluids and blood soaked clothing will be handled according to blood borne
pathogen policy. All attempts should be made to send all items with EMS crews if
possible.
 All debris from vehicle will be bagged and the tow motor operator vehicle prior to towing
company removing vehicle. Debris removal should be done only after the police have
completed their investigation and have authorized the cleanup.
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Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Aerial Truck Ops.
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.12
Page 1 of 5
AERIAL TRUCK OPERATIONS
PURPOSE: To provide a guideline for truck company personnel who ride a Truck to
incidents emergency and nonemergency. These guidelines will provide a basic outline of
operations for personnel riding the truck
4.12.1 RIDING ASSIGNMENTS
In order to assure that all members riding the truck are properly equipped and know
there immediate functions upon arriving, the Fire Department will operate in accordance
to the following riding assignments.
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Interior Team
Officer (#2) Make a rapid size-up of fire building and all exposures. Order the
positioning of the truck if necessary, directly supervise the interior team. Give the
chauffeur directions. Is responsible to go to floor above fire floor to open windows.
Tools will include: Radio, Flashlight, SCBA and Thermal Image Camera.
Forcible Entry (#3) Force main entrance to building, creating as little damage as
possible, conduct primary search of fire floor, assist can man with PPV to front door.
Will open windows while searching. Tools will include: SCBA and Bars and Iron,
Flashlight. Hydro-Ran Bag if a commercial structure
Can Man (#4) Conduct search of fire floor. PPV to front door. Will open windows
while searching. Tools will include: SCBA, PWC and a Hook.
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Exterior Team:
Chauffeur (#1) Safely gets apparatus to incident, assists with communications, set up
aerial operations if needed, assist with ground ladders, set up lighting if needed and
assist exterior team. Tools will include: Axe and portable ladders.
Roof Man (#5) Is responsible to initiate roof operations when ordered, main priority will
be assisting with VES (Vent/Enter/Search) of floor above fire floor. Will be responsible
to assure ladder to every floor and roof is thrown. Tools will include: Portable saw, 6’
NY Hook.
Outside Vent (#6) Main function will be to assure ladders are thrown to all floors
including the roof. Will perform VES (Vent/Enter/Search) of floor above fire floor via
portable ladder, will rotate VES duties with Chauffeur. Tools will include: SCBA, 6'
Hook, assist Chauffeur with Ground ladders.
Note: It is the responsibility of the interior team to take the PPV Fan to the front door
for the exterior team. The interior team does not start the PPV.
4.12.2 GENERAL CONSIDERARTIONS
 Roof operations are generally not feasible during initial operations at private dwellings,
unless fire is in the attic. Prior to any roof operations, horizontal ventilation of fire floor
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Aerial Truck Ops.
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.12
Page 2 of 5
and any floor above is required.
 Horizontal ventilation will initially be accomplished by means of opening all windows,
and securing drapes. Common sense will be used when performing horizontal ventilation,
if determined need to break windows, windows will be cleared entirely.
 Interior crew will be responsible for search of fire floor, then moving to floors above fire
floor.
 Since search and removal of occupants are the prime considerations the PWC must be
used with specific objectives in mind.
 To cover members in search and removal operations, when working near or
passing the main body of fire.
 To enable a firefighter to get close enough to a room out of which fire is lapping,
so as to close an open door and confine the fire.
 The practice of trying to expend the PWC into a fully involved room, solely for
extinguishing purposes, has a minimal effect, and is a waste of time
 When determined the need to break windows for horizontal ventilation, this will require
the COMPLETE removal of glass, window sash, curtains, blinds, etc. from all windows
determined that need removed. Note any window which is not completely cleared out
just as well should have been opened and will be viewed as unnecessary damage.
 Outside teams primary function will be the laddering of all floors including roof of
building.
 Common sense should be used when doing horizontal ventilation. Medium fire - low
heat conditions opening windows is feasible; heavy fire - medium to heavy heat, breaking
windows is feasible, if opening in unattainable.
 It should be noted that prior to vertical ventilation of the roof, it is recommended that
windows in fire room and on fire floor are broken out and completely cleared to facilitate
100% horizontal ventilation
 When placing ladders, firefighters will place ladders according to function performing,
i.e.: for rescue ladder will be placed on sill, for ventilating purposes, ladder will be placed
to the side of the window. When firefighters are placing ladders for safety purposes,
ladders will be placed on sill level.
 Search and rescue of structures will be accomplished according to appropriate guideline.
 When truck is ordered to go into operation, exterior crew will be responsible to assist
chauffeur with setup of the truck, interior crew will assume normal responsibilities.
 When truck responds with limited members, Forcible entry man will take his assigned
tools and PWC, and roof man will be eliminated, unless ordered otherwise by the OIC.
 When crews are assigned to roof operations, they will always work in pairs when possible
and have at least one portable radio.
 Roof operations DOES NOT necessarily mean bucket operations. Roof operations can be
started off a ladder and then the bucket put to the roof for a second means of egress.
4.12.3 UTILITY CONTROL
 Electricity will be shut down via the electrical panel. Most electrical panels are found in
the basement.
 When shutting down, shut down each breaker individually, and then shut main breaker
down.
 Some homes have multiple panels, assure all panels are checked.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Aerial Truck Ops.
Developed – January 1, 2013
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Section 4.12
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Only the electric company will pull meters.
Gas will be shut down via the main gas valve shut off located near the meter. Most
meters are located in the basement or outside the structure.
Gas will not be shut off in the street by the fire department. Electric will not be
controlled by the pole by the fire department.
4.12.4 POSITIVE PRESSURE VENTILATION (PPV)
 The Columbia No. 1 Fire Department will use PPV for ventilation purposes only.
Although PPV has been used in fire attack and control, this takes a planned systematic
approach. If assisting mutual aid and ordered to start PPV and fire has not been declared
under control, extreme caution will be used. Confirmation must be made with the
operations officer or truck company officer to assure PPV is to be started.
 One firefighter will be assigned to the PPV fan at all times. This person will have a
portable radio.
 Prior to the startup of the PPV fan, the OIC of the truck will notify all units on the fire
ground that PPV will be initiated and location of fan.
 The incident commander will be notified and agree to use PPV prior to the fan being
started.
 The positive pressure fan will be placed approximately 6' to 8' from the opening, and the
exit for the PPV will be approximately one and a half times the size as the opening. It is
recommended that you clear each room separately.
 The extension hose will be used to prevent CO from accumulating in the building.
4.12.4 MUTUAL AID/MULTIPLE TRUCK RESPONSES
 If first arriving truck on any responses that multiple trucks respond on it will be the
officer of the first arriving trucks responsibility to coordinate with other truck officers
arriving on the scene.
 If you are the second arriving truck on any incident, you will make all attempts to
coordinate with the first arriving truck officer. If instructions are given by incident
command, these orders will be followed, but all attempts will be made to contact the first
arriving truck officer.
 Multiple trucks working on the same incident should work together to complete all truck
functions.
4.12.5 BUCKET OPERATIONS
 All personnel in the bucket shall wear a minimum of helmet and life belts. Note:
Complete PPE is required for fire suppression operations.
 The maximum number of personnel to occupy the bucket is three (Two if flowing water)
 Outriggers must be in place prior to the boom being moved from the cradle. Once the
outriggers are set the boom may be placed into operation. The operator must remain at
the turntable controls any time there are crews operating in the bucket. Even if the
controls are being controlled from the bucket the operator must remain aware of the
proximity of the boom and bucket to power lines, trees and buildings. NOTE: The
turntable controls are the Master controls and can over-ride the controls in the bucket.
ALWAYS CHECK FOR OVERHEAD OBSRUCTIONS!
 While operating the Tower Ladder, if there is a firefighter in the bucket, there must be a
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Aerial Truck Ops.
Developed – January 1, 2013
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Section 4.12
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firefighter on the turntable. If it is determined that the firefighter on the turntable must
leave for a short period of time to retrieve a tool out of a compartment or connect a
feeder line to the truck, etc., he/she must do the following:
 Inform the firefighter in the bucket.
 The firefighter in the bucket shall keep the bucket in a safe position and not move the
bucket until the firefighter returns to the turntable.
While working on a roof from the bucket to ventilate or do other duties, firefighters
should use a tether line
Before stepping out of the bucket, be sure of the stability of the area you’re about to
enter. Even if you can see the surface, use a tool to probe the area for strength. This
might seem obvious when visibility is poor, but even under good visibility conditions,
your eyes cannot determine the strength of supports that might be exposed to fire.
NEVER use the tower as a battering ram.
NEVER use the tower for pulling down walls or structural members.
ALL personnel shall use a life belt when occupying bucket of tower ladder.
The aerial attached to the boom is more for escape than for normal egress.
Keep at least 10' distance from any wires.
When raising the platform to rescue people from roofs or windows, avoid raising the
platform in line with the people. raise off to one side and rotate to the people, or raise
perpendicular to them and rotate toward them then lower the platform. This practice
shall be done because panic-stricken persons seeing the platform within reach below
them could attempt to jump onto it.
When placing the platform on a roof or other surface, maintain a 12” – 14” clearance
from the bottom to the surface. The bucket is to be suspended not, placed on any
surface.
The bucket shall not move till ALL personnel in the bucket are wearing a safety belt or a
life belt or personal harness which is secured to a substantial part of bucket.
If member(s) leave bucket for search or roof operations, turntable operator shall not
move boom unless member(s) are advised of his intentions and they in turn give
approval, or a visible life hazard should occur.
Overhead wires may interfere with Tower Ladder operations. All personnel should be
looking for overhead hazards and properly relay them to the turntable operator and
bucket operator.
When trees obstruct operations, it is possible to extend or raise boom through light
branches. However, retraction or lowering of the boom through branches may present a
problem and some cutting may be required.
When operating on a roof of questionable stability or outside the sides of the Tower
Ladders bucket with hand tools or power saw, full use of the personal harness and
lifesaving rope shall be used to limit travel of operator of tool to a radius of no more than
ten feet from bucket. Rope shall be tied to a substantial part of bucket and operator shall
use (bowline with 15’ loop) and personal harness or ladder belt. This pertains to an
isolated roof where ventilation cannot be performed from an adjacent roof, without
stepping fully onto the roof of the fire building. Back-up man or guide man shall have a
firm hold of rope.
4.12.6 UTILIZATION OF A POWER SAW FROM A BASKET
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Aerial Truck Ops.
Developed – January 1, 2013

Section 4.12
Page 5 of 5
Power Saw can be effectively used from basket to open up peaked roofs as follows:
 A. Position basket on roof as close to ridge pole as possible. Check stability of roof
with available tools.
 Saw is started in basket and then held outside the basket. It shall be kept outside until
shut off.
 Operator shall wear safety belt. If safety belt does not give enough freedom to
complete task, the lifesaving rope shall be tied to a substantial part of the bucket with
a bowline. The loop of the bowline shall be large enough to reach the edge of the
bucket platform.
 Saw operator hooks his personal harness or ladder belt to loop in life saving rope,
places one foot on roof and other in the bucket. Back-up man takes a firm hold on
the operator's personal harness or ladder belt.
 Make 1st cut parallel to ridge pole
 Proceed to remove cut roofing with 6' hooks and push down any ceiling below. All
attempts should be made to pull roofing from hole and not push it through.
 Area beneath bucket area shall be kept clear to prevent injuries from falling objects
and tools.
Note: There exists under some conditions of partial elevation and extension, a possibility of
boom section adjustment, gradual shifting with one section extending and another section
retracting the same distance with no effect on the position of the basket. This results in rungs
moving in relation to each other. Because of this possibility, utmost caution must be
exercised while using the escape ladder.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Water Rescue.
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.13
Page 1 of 1
WATER RESCUE INCIDENT
PURPOSE: This guideline has been developed to ensure properly trained personnel
responding to water rescue incidents operate in a safe and efficient manner. Changing
water conditions, strong currents and cold temperatures can create hazardous conditions.
4.13.1 APPARATUS PLACEMENT
 The driver is responsible to assure that the boat it properly secured to the trailer prior to
responding to the incident and returning to station.
4.13.2 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
 Due to the hazards of water operations firefighter ensemble shall not be worn. All
personnel deployed in the within 20 foot of the shoreline or in the boat shall don personal
flotation devices (PFD) and head protection. The PFD shall have an audible and visual
warning device. The use of cold water suits will be as weather and water temperatures
dictate.
4.13.3 OPERATIONS
***Use the REACH, THROW, ROW, GO method for rescue of drowning victims.
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The driver of the apparatus and any other persons without an assignment should remain
with the apparatus.
Rescue personnel will turn in accountability tags prior to boarding the boat.
The suggested crew for the boat should normally consist of:
 Operator
 Navigator (bow)
 Radio operator
The boat shall be equipped with a high and low band portable radio.
Ladder trucks and elevating platforms should be used only as a last resort.
During nighttime operations all personnel will utilize the running lights provided on the
boat, and the strobe lights provided on their PFD.
Personnel at all times should avoid standing in the boat.
At no time will personnel leave the boat to affect any rescue unless all other options have
failed.
All ambulatory patients removed from the water will be placed in a PFD for the ride to
shore. A brief medical condition will be conveyed if possible to the Incident
Commander. A brief history of present incident will be acquired to assure there are not
numerous patients.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Confined Space Rescue
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.14
Page 1 of 4
CONFINED SPACE RESCUE
PURPOSE: To establish guidelines for conducting confined space rescue operations.
Confined spaces include caverns, tunnels, pipes, tanks, and any other locations where
ventilation and access are restricted by the configuration of the space.
4.13.1 DEFINITIONS
 A confined space is defined as a space that:
1. Is large enough and so configured that any person can bodily enter and
perform assigned work; and
2. Has limited or restricted means for entry or egress; and
3. Is not designed for continuous occupancy
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According to the OSHA standard, 29CFR 1910.146, alternate procedures for
entering a permit space apply when ALL of the following conditions apply:
1. When the only hazard posed by the space is an actual or potential hazardous
atmosphere;
2. When continuous forced air ventilation alone is sufficient to maintain the
space for entry;
3. When the work performed within the space does not introduce any additional
hazards (no work with hazardous, flammable, toxic, or hot substances is
permitted).
4. When there is periodic monitoring and inspection data to support 1 & 2.
4.14.2 CONFINED SPACE ENTRY PERMIT
 The Officer in Charge (OIC) shall verify that the space is safe for entry and that the preentry measures have been taken [monitoring, ventilation, lockout/tagout, isolating the space,
physical barriers] through a written permit that contains the date, the location of the space,
and the signature of the person providing the certification [See Appendix A]. The permit
shall be made before entry and shall be made available to each rescuer entering the space.
Any problems shall be noted on the permit so that appropriate revisions to the program can
be implemented. Permits shall be retained by the Safety Officer for a period of at least one
year. All pre-entry preparation activities specified on the permit shall be completed before
entry is authorized. Preparations include, but are not limited to the following:
 Air monitoring;
 Isolating the space,
 This type of incident requires full firefighter ensemble unless otherwise
specified by Officer in Charge (OIC). SCBA will be worn in the zone of
operations.
 De-pressuring equipment under positive or negative pressure,
 Lockout/tagout, all electrical, pneumatic, mechanical, and chemical hazards,
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Confined Space Rescue
Developed – January 1, 2013
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Section 4.14
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Providing physical barriers to isolate the opening and protect entrants from
external hazards. Any conditions making it unsafe to remove an entrance
cover shall be eliminated before the cover is removed. When covers are
removed, the opening shall be promptly guarded by a railing, temporary
cover, or other temporary barrier that will prevent an accidental fall through
the opening and that will protect each rescuer operating in the space from
foreign objects entering the space.
At no times shall there be an entry without SCBA. Portable SCBA must be
supplemented by a shoreline to a cascade unit. An operator shall remain with
the air system when the system is in use.
SCBA shall be worn in zone of operations. An additional air unit shall be
dispatched.
Only in extenuating circumstances shall apparatus be used for anchor points.
All knots shall be double checked.
The buddy system shall be used.
A backup team shall be ready prior to deployment of the entry team.
Radio communication and visual contact with the entry team is essential
during the incident. Continuous contact with the entry team shall be
maintained throughout the incident.
4.14.3 MONITORING
 Before a firefighter enters a confined space, the internal atmosphere shall be tested, with
a calibrated direct reading instrument, for the following conditions in the order given:
 Oxygen content
 Flammable gases and vapors, and
 Potential toxic air contaminants
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There may be no hazardous atmosphere within the space whenever any rescuer is
inside the space. If a hazardous atmosphere is detected at any time:
1. All firefighters shall leave the space immediately;
2. The space shall be evaluated to determine how the hazardous atmosphere
developed;
3. Measures shall be implemented to protect rescuers from the hazardous
atmosphere before any subsequent entry takes place. If it is necessary to enter
the permit space to eliminate hazards the Assistant Chief - Safety and Fire
Chief shall be contacted and such entry shall be performed only by following
29 CFR 1910.146 sections (d) through (k).
 A “hazardous atmosphere” may expose firefighters to the risk of death, incapacitation,
impairment of ability to self-rescue, injury, or acute illness from one or more of the
following causes:
 Flammable gas, vapor, or mist in excess of 10 percent of its lower flammable limit
(LFL);
 Airborne combustible dust at a concentration that meets or exceeds its LFL;
 Atmospheric oxygen concentration below 20.0 percent or above 21.5 percent;
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Confined Space Rescue
Developed – January 1, 2013
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Section 4.14
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Atmospheric concentration of any substance for which a dose or a permissible
exposure limit is published in Subpart G, Occupational Health and Environmental
Control, or in Subpart Z, Toxic and Hazardous Substances, of this Part and which
could result in rescuer exposure in excess of its dose or permissible exposure limit;
Any other atmospheric condition that is immediately dangerous to life and health.
Initial readings must be documented on the “Confined Space Entry Certification Form” [See
Appendix A]. The atmosphere within the space shall be continuously monitored, in the
vicinity of the rescuer, and documented periodically (every 25 - 30 minutes) to ensure that a
hazardous atmosphere does not exist.
4.14.4 VENTILATION
 Continuous forced air ventilation shall be used, as follows:
1. An rescuer may not enter the space until the forced air ventilation has reduced
any hazardous atmosphere;
2. The forced air ventilation shall be so directed as to ventilate the immediate areas
where a rescuer is or will be present within the space and shall continue until all
rescuers have left the space;
3. The air supply for the forced air ventilation shall be from a clean source and may
not increase the hazards in the space.
4.14.5 EMERGENCY SITUATIONS
 The space shall be evacuated under any of the following conditions:
1. An rescuer/entrant can not effectively and safely perform all required duties;
2. The rescuer/entrant detects a prohibited condition (ex. unsafe monitor readings)
3. If the rescuer/entrant recognizes any warnings sign(s) or symptom(s) of exposure to
a dangerous situation;
4. An attendant detects a situation outside the space that could endanger the
rescuer/entrant; or
5. If the attendant detects the behavioral effects of hazard exposure in a rescuer/entrant.
4.14.6 AUTHORIZED RESCUERS/ENTRANTS
 Only trained and authorized entrants are permitted to enter any of the confined spaces.
Authorized entrants shall:
1. Receive training as indicated in this policy.
2. Know the hazards that may be encountered during entry including
information on the mode, signs or symptoms, and consequences of exposure;
3. Properly use equipment required to safely enter the confined space including
equipment for testing and monitoring, ventilating, communication, personal
protection, lighting, and ingress/egress;
4. Ensure there is periodic communication with outside personnel (attendant) as
necessary to enable the monitoring of entrant status and to alert entrants of
the need to evacuate the space;
5. Alert the attendant whenever:
 The rescuer/entrant recognizes any warning sign or symptom of exposure
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Confined Space Rescue
Developed – January 1, 2013
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Section 4.14
Page 4 of 4
to a dangerous situation.
The rescuer/entrant detects a prohibited condition.
4.14.7 AUTHORIZED ATTENDANTS
 There must be an authorized attendant available any time an authorized entrant will be
entering any confined space.
Authorized attendants shall:
1. Receive training as indicated in this policy.
2. Know the hazards that may be encountered during entry including information on
the mode, signs or symptoms, and consequences of exposure;
3. Communicate with the authorized entrants periodically to monitor entrant status
and to alert entrants of the need to evacuate the space;
4. Transfer responsibilities to another authorized attendant if he/she can not perform
duties; and
5. Alert the entrant whenever:
 The attendant detects a prohibited condition;
 If the attendant detects a situation outside the space that could endanger
the authorized entrant
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Elevator Rescue
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.15 4.13
Page 1 of 31 of 4
ELEVATOR RESCUE
PURPOSE: This guideline has been developed to ensure properly trained personnel
respond to elevator rescue incidents and operate in a safe an efficient manner.
4.15.1 PHASE I CONTROL
This level of control can be accomplished by inserting the key into the “ON” position in the
main lobby when arriving at an incident, which will return the elevators to the main floor.
This will also occur when a smoke detector activates in the lobby, hoistway or machine
room.
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All cars traveling away from the recall floor to stop at or before the next available
landing and reverse their direction without opening their doors.
 All cars standing at a floor will immediately close their doors and return to the recall
floor.
 Upon activation of Phase I and closing doors, the emergency stop and the in-car stop
switch becomes inoperative as soon as the car moves away from the landing.
 Smoke and flames sensitive door reopening devices also become inoperative. Door
reopening devices not sensitive to smoke or flame are permitted to remain operative.
 An audible and illuminated signal comes on remains on until the car returns to the
lobby.
 Once the car moves, the in-car “DOOR OPEN” button becomes inoperative.
 If the elevator has vertical sliding doors, the “DOOR CLOSE" buttons will remain
operative in order to close the doors. The cars will then automatically return to the
recall floor.
If an additional two-position switch is provided at a remote location, it cannot override
the smoke sensors, nor can it override the three-position switch. The “BYPASS” and
“OFF” positions on the three-position lobby switch cannot work if the two-position
switch is in the on position.
4.15.2 BYPASS CONTROL
In the event of a malfunctioning smoke detector, after the checked and cleared, the Bypass
control may be used to place the elevator back into normal service.
4.15.3 PHASE II CONTROL
Phase II Operation key activated by placing the Fire Service Key into the Fire Service Phase
II switch in or adjacent to the car opening panel. This switch as previously described has three
positions. The “ON” position is to place it under the direct control of the firefighter in the car.
This switch when turned on gives the firefighter control of the car, but does not move it. The
“OFF” position is the normal operating position while the “HOLD” switch allows the user to
control the use of the elevator.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Elevator Rescue
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.15 4.13
Page 2 of 32 of 4
The movement of the car must follow a sequence of operations. This sequence is as follows:
 A change in the key position is recognized by the elevator system only when the elevator
is stopped at a floor and the doors are fully opened.
 Turn the lobby switch to “ON.”
 Turn the in-car key switch to “ON.”
 With the power doors, press and hold the “DOOR CLOSE” button until the doors are
fully closed. If the “DOOR CLOSE” button is released before the doors are fully closed,
the door(s) will reopen automatically.
 Press the button for the floor desired (at least 2 floors below the fire floor). Make several
intermediate stops prior to the chosen floor to check the hoistway for the presence of
smoke. Check around the car door openings for heat prior to the operation of the “DOOR
OPEN” button.
 Upon arrival at the desired floor, press and hold the “DOOR OPEN” until the doors are
fully opened. If there is fire or smoke present, just release the button before the doors are
fully open and the doors will automatically close.
 To hold the car at the floor, turn the key to the “HOLD” position when the doors are open
and remove it. This will keep the car at the floor and not allow someone to take it from
you.
 To return the car to the recall floor in order to allow other personnel to use it, with the
doors open, turn the key to the “OFF” position.
 To remove the car from Phase II operation, you must return the car to the recall floor and
then be sure the Phase II key is in the “OFF” position.
 It is important to remember that once Phase I is operated, the car can only be operated by
placing it on Phase II and then it can be only operated by the firefighter in the car. It is
recommended that a firefighter equipped with a portable radio be assigned a position as
elevator car operator.
 To remove the car from Phase I, you must return the car to the designated landing, then
with the doors open,turn the lobby three-position switch to the “OFF” position.
NOTE: The in-car switch for older installations (prior to the 1986 Code) only contain the
“ON” and “OFF” positions. The “ON” position functions basically as described above; the
“OFF” position removes the car from Phase II operation only when the car is at the
designated or alternate level.
4.15.4 REMOVAL OF A PERSON FROM A TRAPPED CAR
When responding to a rescue of a person(s) trapped in an elevator car. This is only used in
the event that you cannot get the elevator to recall on its’ own.
 Keep someone at each level you will be working on. At no time should anyone enter
the pit area.
 Communicate with the victims. Ask if anyone is injured.
 Assure that the emergency stop has not been activated. Have them push the reset.
 Reassure them and explain the procedures.
 Try a Phase 1 recall with the fire service key.
 Locate the elevator control room. Identify the control panel that operates the disabled car
 Try the reset button, if applicable. If unsuccessful, shut power off for 10 seconds and
then restore power and push the call button in the opposite direction.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Elevator Rescue
Developed – January 1, 2013
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Shut down the power again and lock and tag out following the procedure outlined in
section 4.21
If possible, have the victim(s) try to push or pull the inner door open and pivot or lift the
driving or roller guide.
Try to pick car door by polling or using keys to gain access to the car. If unsuccessful go
to the floor above and place a ladder on top of the disabled car and gain entry through the
escape hatch.
Prepare to place a rescuer in the disabled car. If the hoistway has multiple cars, gain
control of the adjacent cars and place the car at the point that it provides a solid surface
upon entering/exiting the car.
Keep the occupants informed of what you are doing.
Safely remove the occupants of the elevator placing safety as the primary goal
Make sure the owner representative notifies the elevator company for service. If no
emergency exists, await the arrival of a certified elevator technician.
Leave the power off and label the elevator “Out of Service.”
4.15.5 POLLING
Whenever possible, gain access into the disabled car by polling
 Always be sure that the main power is off to all elevators.
 All working in hoistway area shall don a class III harness and secure it to a lifeline. Be
sure that the lifeline is secured to an anchor point and a safety is observing the operation.
 A firefighter should be positioned at the lower side of the car to assist with the door
opening.
 Keep the occupants informed of what you are doing.
 Using a pike pole attempt to release the restrictor lock from the upper door. See
appendix 5. .
 When spring lock is released instruct firefighter working on level below to open the
hoistway doors.
 If possible, remove the occupants through the lower door placing safety as the primary
goal.
 Make sure the owner representative notifies the elevator company for service. If no
emergency exists, await the arrival of a certified elevator technician.
 Leave the power off and label the elevator “Out of Service.”
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Automatic External Defibrillation
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.16 4.13
Page 1 of 11 of 4
AUTOMATIC EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATION (AED)
PURPOSE: Provide guidelines for the response and operations of the automatic external
defibrillator. In order to better protect fellow firefighters and the general public from
certain types of Sudden Cardiac Emergencies.
4.16.1 TRAINING STANDARD:
 All personnel must be trained in accordance to the American Red Cross or the American
Heart Association AED/CPR standard. This course will be offered at the fire Department
annually.
4.16.2 REQUIRED EQUIPMENT:
 In order to respond to an AED incident the following equipment is required. (AED with
the medical bag, oxygen and PPE)
4.16.3 STAFFING:
 Responses to Emergency Medical Service (EMS)/AED incidents require a minimum
staffing of 2. Driver and 1 AED/CPR trained person.
4.16.4 RESPONSE:
 The AED response is considered an EMS incident, so the incoming EMS unit will
determine the final outcome for patient care.
 Working frequency is 33.64, unless you are instructed to use another frequency by
County Radio.
 When responding to an EMS/AED incident, you are committed until released by EMS,
unless while you are responding you come across another incident that requires
fire/rescue services.
 Cancellations require documentation of the unit canceling fire department response. (i.e.,
police department or EMS).
 Lancaster county and EHSF guidelines for AED response will be followed at all times.
4.16.5 INCIDENT REPORTING:
 All documentation will be completed on the established fire report. You should acquire as
much as possible information about the patient such as; name, age, sex, medical history,
medications, allergies, down time, patient condition, history of events, etc..
 When the AED is utilized the AED Coordinator must be notified within 24 hours so the
machine can down loaded and the operation of the AED reviewed. Pertinent information
will be communicated to all firefighters for continual improvement and Quality Assurance
purposes of the AED program.
4.16.6 RESTOCKING:
 All restocking will be done by the crew after each response. If any supplies are not
available notify the Captain.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Bomb Scare/Threat
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.17 4.13
Page 1 of 11 of 4
BOMB SCARE/THREAT
PURPOSE: To establish guidelines for the dispatch of fire Department apparatus and
personnel to assist the police department. At no time will the fire Department apparatus or
personnel become directly involved with the search, handling, or removal of an explosive
device or material. The crews will remain in staging until the police department releases
them or until an incident occurs and medical assistance is needed at the incident.
4.17.1 OPERATIONS
 Personnel shall not get involved in the search for any type of explosive device. We will
provide support functions for these incidents.
 Consider resources such as the Bomb Squad from Fort Indiantown Gap and the dogs from
Red Rose Search and Rescue K-9 Team.
 Establish site control zone and deny entry.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Spill Control
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.18 4.13
Page 1 of 1 of 4
SPILL CONTROL
PURPOSE: To provide a guideline for the handling of spilled hydrocarbons and the
protocol for involving the Lancaster County Hazmat team when the situation warrants.
4.18.1 GENERAL RESPONSE CRITERIA
 All responses to all spill controls will be at a non-emergency rate, no lights or sirens will
be used unless ordered by the OIC.

Extreme care will be utilized when operating on the bypass. All personnel will handle
bypass emergencies per appropriate guideline.

No fluids will be washed away into gutters or waterways, unless authorization is obtained
from DEP. All fluid will be absorbed with absorbent and disposed of properly.

All drains and streams will be protected from runoff, and if any substantial amount of
fluid enters drains or streams, DEP will be notified.

If at any time, fluid enters a waterway or drain, or large amounts of fluid are absorbed
into the ground, county control will be notified via cellular phone to notify DEP.

Oil dry will be the item of choice used for an absorbing agent when operating at a spill
control. If there is a large amount of fluid that needs taken care of, and it does not
warrant a Hazmat unit, sand may be used.

All absorbing material will be picked up and properly disposed of after the incident.
Trucking companies will be responsible to dispose of absorbing material when involved.

If possible the source of the spill should be documented on the run report, and if the spill
is large enough to report, the police department should be notified.

All spill controls involving an unknown substance leaking will be handled with extreme
care and will not be taken for granted. Full protective clothing, including SCBA will be
utilized. Identification of the substance will be done prior to cleanup and the Haz-Mat
team will be notified.

Full turnout gear will be utilized by all members when responding to spill controls, and if
situation warrants, or OIC directs, SCBA will worn.

Extreme care will be used when operating on roadways, safety of personnel is
paramount.

All gear should be cleaned after the incident is complete.

Be extremely careful of fumes when operating in an enclosed area, proper ventilation
should be used.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Spill Control
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.18 4.13
Page 2 of 1 of 4
4.18.2 HAZMAT RESPONSE CRITERIA

Criteria for Hazmat response will be as follows, any liquid release over 50 gallons, any
vapor release over 20 pounds-except natural gas or LP gas, any placarded vehicle whose
cargo has breached its container, any release of an unknown substance, any radiological
accident or any vehicle placarded radiological hazard involved in accident. Any other
response involving an unknown substance where fire department control of the incident
may be compromised or the OIC is unsure of the chemical makeup of the substance.

Any material not considered hazardous to the environment in small amounts may be
washed away. If you are not sure of materials status, than absorb material and properly
dispose of it.

If fluid leaking is flammable, proper fire suppression measurers will be taken while
operating at scene.

The fire departments capabilities are very limited regarding spills, hazardous or
nonhazardous. If the substance is in question, Hazmat should be notified. Large
quantities of nonhazardous substances are also hazardous to the environment. Do not
wash down any large quantity of a substance without making proper notifications.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Hazardous Materials
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.19 4.13
Page 1 of 1 of 4
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
PURPOSE: The purpose of this guideline is to establish effective, efficient and safe
utilization of personnel, apparatus and equipment when within the designated area of
operations of a hazardous materials incident.
4.19.1 APPARATUS PLACEMENT
 A minimum of 2500 foot from the incident in an uphill and upwind position initial
placement.
4.19.2 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
 Haz-Mat incidents require full firefighter ensemble with SCBA unless specified by OIC
or properly determined to be in the cold zone.
 Splash protection shall be worn for any material that can damage eyes, skin or clothing.
4.19.3 OPERATIONS
 Gain site control of the incident. Isolate the incident and deny entry.
 Use these reference sources as a minimum, when gathering data on a substance (MSDS
and Emergency Response Guideline book (ERG).
 We will only perform defensive operations.
 The protocol for dispatch of the Hazardous Materials Unit can be found in the appendix
5.5.
 Provide the Hazardous Materials Unit with as much information as possible as soon as
possible.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Aircraft Incident
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.20 4.13
Page 1 of 11 of 4
AIRCRAFT FIRE/RESCUE
PURPOSE: This procedure is to establish guidelines for the safe and effective response of
the fire department personnel and equipment to emergency situations involving all
types of aircraft.
4.20.1 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
 Because aircraft use special fuels all firefighters must don full firefighting ensemble and
SCBA.
4.20.2 OPERATIONS
 The Engine shall establish a water source (i.e., hydrant, draft). If in a rural area, have a
tanker dispatched.
 Foam lines shall be deployed.
 Notification shall be made to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). This can be accomplished through
Lancaster County-Wide Communications.
 If a military aircraft is involved immediately notify county control to have them make
proper notification.
 Isolate the scene to preserve evidence for the investigation.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
High Angle/Environmental Incident
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.21
Page 1 of 1
HIGH ANGLE/
ENVIRONMENTAL RESCUE INCIDENT
PURPOSE: This procedure is to establish guidelines for conducting high angle/rope
rescues. Because of the infinite number of potential sites and situations that could be
encountered, this procedure will not define a specific evolution to use, but will give
guidelines to follow for conducting safe and effective operations.
4.21.1 APPARATUS PLACEMENT
 For all dispatches to a High Angle at Chickies Rock, Rescue 1 should proceed to the top
(of Rt. 441). Rescue 2 should proceed to the bottom of the Rock (rail yard).
4.21.2 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
 For High Angle Rescue the use of firefighter ensemble is not recommended, unless
performed on a fire incident. The minimum PPE that shall be worn is helmet, gloves, eye
protection, foot protection and harness. Technical rescue gear mat be used.
4.21.3 OPERATIONS
 The OIC will appoint a scene Safety Officer to assure that all rescue personnel are
properly secured to the ropes and anchor points
 Personnel deployed within twenty feet of the edge shall wear harnesses and shall be
connected to an anchor point.
 All tying of knots, harnesses, haul systems, safeties and personnel on repel shall be
double checked.
 Safeties will be used on all haul systems and for all victims.
 There shall be a belay for each rescue line (rescuers and victim).
 At least one rescuer shall be medically trained and shall carry basic medical supplies.
 A backup team shall be ready prior to deployment of the entry team.
 A minimum of two rescuers per team.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Carbon Monoxide
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.22 4.13
Page 1 of 1 of 4
CARBON MONOXIDE RESPONSE
PURPOSE: To establish procedures and guidelines for the safe and effective response of
Emergency responders and the safety of the general public to carbon monoxide alarm
activations and emergencies.
4.22.1 CARBON MONOXIDE (CO)
 A colorless, odorless, poisonous gas that is the by-product of a fuel burning process.
4.22.2 PROCEDURES
 Upon arrival the first in officer shall attempt to determine if the alarm activation or suspected
problem is valid:
 Discussion with the occupants
 Entry into the structure only after donning full protective clothing including a
SCBA and monitoring the interior atmosphere with an appropriate air
quality monitoring devices.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) shall be notified immediately if occupants show
any signs/symptoms of Carbon Monoxide exposure, which include but are not
limited to;
MILD EXPOSURE
MEDIUM EXPOSURE
EXTREME EXPOSURE



Mild headache, nausea, vomiting, or fatigue.
Severe headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
Unconsciousness, convulsions, cardio-pulmonary failure, death
If the alarm activation or emergency is valid the following sources of carbon
monoxide should be investigated:
 Furnace and chimney flue
 Appliances that use fuels: natural gas, propane, oil, kerosene
 Space heaters
 Fireplaces
 Indoor operation of grills/cooking appliances
 Seepage from other sources: garage, storage closets/sheds, adjacent structures
 Backdrafting due to changes in air pressure
Because if the complexity of issues when dealing with CO exposure levels the following guide is provided for
the handling of CO incidents.
0% PPM of CO
1-9% PPM of CO
10-35% PPM of CO
35% or More PPM of CO
Advise the occupant(s) the fire Department did not detect any CO reading with
our detectors at this time. The occupant may reenter the premises.
If the occupant(s) are experiencing CO symptoms they are advised to seek
medical attention. It is recommended that the occupant(s) have a reliable
heating appliance contractor check the suspect appliance.
With occupant(s) consent, the gas service or suspected appliance will be shut off,
and if the occupant(s) are experiencing any CO symptoms, they need to seek
medical attention.
Occupants shall immediately evacuate the home/business. The occupant should
not re-enter the structure. The gas service or suspected appliance will be shut
off. If the occupant(s) have CO symptoms they shall be advised to seek medical
attention at a medical facility.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Carbon Monoxide
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.22 4.13
Page 2 of 2 of 4
 Be advised that there is always a potential for small amounts of residual CO outdoors and
indoors. It is not uncommon to find CO levels of 1 - 5% PPM around stoves and water
heaters.
 If the problem involves a utility the proper agency (UGI, etc.) should be contacted
immediately.
 The fire Department should not attempt any repairs or alterations to any appliance or
other device. The fire Department will only recommend that a service Department be
contacted.
 Fire Department actions should be limited to:
 Evacuation and securing the structure involved
 Ventilation of the structure
 Monitoring conditions within the structure and the environment
 Assisting public utilities when requested
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Lockout/Tagout
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.23 4.13
Page 1 of 1 of 4
ENERGY CONTROL PROCEDURES (LOCKOUT/TAGOUT)
PURPOSE: This is a mandatory procedure for rendering mechanical equipment, electrical
circuits/equipment, fluid systems, etc., inoperative and otherwise. It includes release or
protection of any stored energy before work is performed in order to prevent injury to
our firefighters. It also applies to actions that require a firefighter to remove or bypass
a guard or other safety device, or a firefighter to place any part of his or her body into
an area on a machine or a piece of equipment where work is actually performed upon
material being processed (point of operation) or where an associated danger zone exists
during a machine cycle.
4.23.1 DEFINITIONS
A. Energy can come from many different sources, but it is always one of two types:
Kinetic Energy- the force caused by the action of an object.
Potential energy- the force stored in an object that isn't moving.
B.
Energy sources may include the following: electricity, pneumatic (air), hydraulic,
gas, mechanical, springs, water, chemical, steam, thermal, nuclear.
4.23.2 RESPONSIBILITY
These procedures are mandatory and firefighters are responsible to comply with the
procedure, however, supervision (Officer in Charge) is responsible for implementation
and monitoring compliance with this procedure during the incident.
4.23.3 LOCKOUT OR TAGOUT DEVICES
A. Only those lockout or tagout devices provided by the Department shall be used.
B. Lockout and tagout devices shall not be used for any other purpose.
4.23.4 LOCKOUT/TAGOUT PROCEDURES
A.
Tagout procedures are NOT to be used except when equipment is not capable of
being locked out. In the event the equipment cannot be locked out, "Tagout
Procedures" (section 4.21.5) must be followed in addition to the "Lockout/Tagout
Procedures".
B.
The following procedures shall be used for lockout/tagout of machines and
equipment:
1. The machine or equipment shall be inspected for the type and magnitude of
energy, hazards of the energy, and control methods.
2. Check the area for other persons and inform them that the equipment is to be
shut down.
3. Shut down the machine or equipment using normal stopping procedures, if
possible.
4. Shut off power source to isolate equipment.
5. Lockout or tagout the power source.
6. Release any stored energy (release hydraulic pressure, lower mechanical
devices acting on gravity, release any spring tension, block any other devices
using only blocking devices as provided by the Department for this purpose,
etc.).
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Lockout/Tagout
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.23 4.13
Page 2 of 2 of 4
7. Using the normal operating control(s) for the equipment or machine, test the
effectiveness of the lockout. Ensure the control(s) are returned to the "off"
position after the test.
D.
Removal of Lockout/Tagout Devices
1.
Inspect area for nonessential items, tools, etc., and to ensure that equipment
components are intact.
2.
Check that all persons are safely positioned and are notified that equipment
is being restarted.
3.
Only the firefighter who applied each device shall remove the device.
4.
If the authorized firefighter who applied the device is not available to
remove it, it may be removed only by the Officer In Charge but only after:
a. It is verified that the applying firefighter is no longer at the incident.
b. A reasonable effort has been made to contact the firefighter that the
lockout device has been removed.
5.
In the event of a need to test or otherwise activate machines or equipment
while work is being performed, "removal of lockout/tagout" procedures
shall be followed. The procedure for lockout/tagout shall also be reinstituted before continuation of servicing or maintenance.
4,23.5 TAGOUT PROCEDURES
TAGS ARE TO BE USED ONLY IF EQUIPMENT IS NOT CAPABLE OF
BEING LOCKED OUT.
Firefighters shall be informed that:
1. Tags are warning devices only and do not prevent activation.
2. Tags are not to be removed, bypassed, etc., except by the applying person.
3. Only authorized tags are to be used.
4. Tags are to be securely attached to energy isolating devices, using a nylon
cable tie or its equivalent.
5. Where a tag cannot be affixed directly to the energy isolating device(s) the tag
shall be located as close as safely possible to the device in a position that will
be immediately obvious to anyone attempting to operate the device.
4.23.6 MECHANICAL ISOLATION
A. Mechanical isolation may be achieved by disconnecting a unit from its prime mover,
(i.e., separating or inactivating couplings, belts, chains, gear trains, mechanical
linkage, clutch, lines, cables or tubing). A tag shall be applied to the unit at the point
of separation from the prime mover during the period of cleaning, repair, or
overhaul.
B. Pressure shall be relieved from the hydraulic, pneumatic, or steam supply to any unit
or system prior to the start of rescue operations and a lock applied. If impossible to
lock, a tag shall be attached.
C. Operator control devices such as hydraulic or pneumatic control valves, start/stop
switches; control linkage shall NOT be considered as a means of isolation under this
procedure.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Lockout/Tagout
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.23 4.13
Page 3 of 3 of 4
D. In the event of the possibility of a re-accumulation of stored energy (i.e., steam or
hydraulic build up), measures must be taken to eliminate that potential through an
isolation means further downstream.
4.23.7 FLUID ISOLATION (GAS OR LIQUID)
A. Pressure shall be relieved and the necessary precautions taken to prevent a pressure
buildup on any fluid system prior to performing work on a component, section, or
the entire system. The person responsible for performing the service shall make
sure that this has been done before starting any work.
1. Isolation of a complete system may be achieved by inactivating the power
supply to the pressure generating devices and applying a lock or tag to the
control unit.
2. Isolation of part of a fluid system may be achieved by closing valves, dampers,
installing blanks, disconnecting lines, or other appropriate precautions to
prevent release of fluids.
3. The isolated system shall be locked out at the isolation device whenever
possible. If it is not possible to lock out the isolation device then a tag shall be
applied.
4. Valves used as an isolation device shall be secured in the closed position. A
specially designed valve lockout device or a chain strung through the spokes of
the hand wheel in such a manner as to prevent the operation of the control valve
shall be utilized.
5. Power operated valves which are inoperative in the closed position after the
power source is removed, are used as an isolation device, the electrical,
pneumatic or hydraulic power source shall be disconnected from the valve and a
lock or tag applied. Power operated valves which can be opened without use of
a power source shall not be used as an isolation device.
4.23.8 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
Firefighters may not enter any area containing exposed live electrical parts, unless
adequate illumination is provided. If needed, portable light stands will be utilized for
additional illumination.
Conductive materials and equipment that are in contact with any part of a firefighter’s
body must be adequately insulated or otherwise handled in a manner that will prevent
them from coming into contact with live electrical parts. Conductive articles of jewelry
and clothing such as rings, watch bands, necklaces, key chains or clothing made of
conductive thread may not be worn if they might contact exposed energized parts unless
protected or covered by appropriate nonconductive materials.
When operating a circuit breaker or disconnect, Firefighters must:
 Locate the device to be operated.
 Stand to the side of the panel or box opposite the hinges
 Turn your head.
 Operate the breaker or disconnect.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Lockout/Tagout
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.23 4.13
Page 4 of 4 of 4
Six Steps to an Effective Lockout
1. Check the area for other firefighters and inform all affected firefighters
2. Shut down the equipment using normal stopping procedures
3. Shut off all energy/power source(s) to isolate equipment (e.g., disengage
disconnect)
4. Lockout all energy/power sources
5. If necessary release stored energy or where necessary use a blocking device
6. Verify that the equipment is at “0” energy by trying to start the equipment using
the normal controls for starting the equipment. After verification, the controls
should be returned to the “off” position.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Weapons of Mass Destruction
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.24 4.13
Page 1 of 1 of 4
WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION
PURPOSE
Response actions at a Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) incident can be divided into those
undertaken by operational responders and those undertaken or supervised by hazmat technicians.
Medical management includes decontamination, triage, treatment, behavioral health and
transportation. The specific WMD agent involved -- chemical, biological or radiological -- has
an impact on scene management. All WMD terrorism incidents are crime scenes; police
department needs early involvement.

Handling incidents involving WMD are well beyond the capabilities of the Columbia
Borough Fire Department. All attempts shall be made to mitigate the scene as safely as
possible and identify what resources will be needed as soon as possible.

The Columbia Borough Fire Department’s role will be safety of personnel responding,
immediate life hazards, and control of scene till proper units arrive.
FIRST ARRIVING UNITS
 The first arriving officer will establish Command and begin a size-up. They will survey
visible activity, signs and symptoms. Notice potential effects of wind, topography and
location of the incident. They will route other responding companies away from visible
hazards.

Command will establish staging whenever possible. Care must be taken to establish
staging in a safe area, taking into account the characteristics of the likely WMD agent
(chemical, biological, radiological).

Hazmat and Emergency Management notification as well as police department
involvement should occur as early as possible in the incident.
AREA ISOLATION/PERIMETER ESTABLISHMENT

Command Size-up gathers information for incident management plan

In known or suspected explosions when purposeful or terrorist activity cannot be ruled
out (i.e., natural gas explosion) initial actions should be to secure a hot zone perimeter
and call for the police department to respond.

Entry into the Hot Zone/crime scene should be under the direction of the hazmat,
radiological monitoring and/or the police department

If victims are present the incident commander should establish communication quickly to
control their anxiety and behavior. Select a fire member/officer as a point of
communication to establish rapport and credibility. If possible all direct communications
to victims should be conducted/coordinated through this person.

A WMD/terrorist incident is a crime scene. Once fire/hazmat work is complete, scene
passes to police department.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Weapons of Mass Destruction
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.24 4.13
Page 2 of 2 of 4

BEWARE OF SECONDARY DEVICES designed to injure additional victims and/or
first responders. Upon sighting a device that appears operable, withdraw personnel until
police department has inspected/rendered safe any suspicious appearing device.

Remember locations of potential evidence; do not move or collect it yourself.

Prepare to Evacuate nearby area if indicated by wind, explosive or similar danger.

If fire is present and radiological agent suspected, evacuate to 2000 feet. Check
downwind areas for contamination.
IN THE CASE OF LETTER OR PACKAGE CONTAINING UNKNOWN SUBSTANCE:

Quarantine persons in the immediate area of exposure (office or room) and place them in
a safe refuge area.

Isolate the area that the substance or package is located; hold for Hazmat Team to double
bag and secure.

Control Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems by shutting down to prevent
spread of contamination.

Do not use the specific name of the suspected agent over the radio, use only “a biological
event had occurred with an unknown agent at…..”

If a biological agent is contained in a single room or office in a multi-function building,
the building should be evacuated.

If no apparent victims, life hazard, rescue situation, or fire exists, fire department
personnel should not be exposed to risk.

First arriving units should secure a perimeter, evaluate the situation, and await the arrival
of the Hazardous Materials Team.

Use available PPE to minimize safety risks for operational responders.

Minimize entry of first responders into Hot Zone.

Minimum PPE is turnouts, and SCBA.
ESTABLISH ZONES OF LIMITED ACCESS

The HOT ZONE is the area immediately around site/munitions/device/source. Enforce a
single entry control point. All personnel entering this area must wear full protective gear.
The entry control point should be a minimum of 300 feet from the source. This applies
whether suspected agent is chemical, biological or radiological.

The WARM ZONE is upwind and uphill from the Hot Zone for chemical and
radiological threats. Biological agents are non-volatile and controllable, if contained in a
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Weapons of Mass Destruction
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.24 4.13
Page 3 of 3 of 4
building little downwind threat is posed, if release point is in the open, downwind hazard
may exist.

The Hot Zone support, rescue, and decon personnel operate in Warm Zone with full
protective gear. Decon lines are established in the Warm Zone. This area should be
minimally 15 feet wide, but must encompass all victims waiting decon and decon
equipment.

The COLD ZONE is outside the Warm Zone. For Chemical and Radiological agents,
Cold Zone is uphill and upwind from Warm Zone. No contaminated personnel or
equipment should pass into the Cold Zone. Incident Command, medical and
transportation are located in the Cold Zone. Personnel should keep protective gear at
hand in case of wind shift or accidental contamination.
COORDINATE WITH POLICE TO ESTABLISH SECURITY FOR SITE

Police will secure scene to insure safety for victims and emergency responders.

Police will search immediate area for presence of secondary devices.

If potentially explosive devices are sighted or suspected, police will investigate and clear.
Fire personnel will withdraw to safe staging area until safe re-entry is possible. Fire
personnel will NOT move or disarm suspected devices.

Victims and others will be denied entry and exit from Hot Zone. Police will enforce these
restrictions. Fire personnel will NOT use physical force to restrain public.
EQUIPMENT POSITIONING

Position equipment upwind, uphill and upstream from the incident site.

If the incident is indoors, insure any ventilation exhaust ports are not blowing vapors into
the established response areas. Shut down HVAC systems to minimize contamination
spread.

Be aware of the presence of, or potential for downwind, plumes. This threat exists for
chemical, biological and radiological [particles] agents. If a downwind hazard exists,
initiate appropriate action (evacuation or shelter-in-place) for those at risk. Adjust
incident perimeters to account for wind risks.
USE CAUTION [PPE] WHEN CONTACTING VICTIMS

Those exposed to chemical agents may be off-gassing.

Biological victims may be contaminated with particles or droplets of agent.

Radiological victims pose no danger; particles on skin or clothing brush or wash off.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Weapons of Mass Destruction
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.24 4.13
Page 4 of 4 of 4

NOTE LOCATIONS OF DEAD AT SCENE

Hot Zone perimeter should be defined to include all dead bodies.

Unless absolutely necessary do not move bodies.

NON-AMBULATORY VICTIMS SHOULD LIE IN PLACE

If necessary administer emergency medical measures while wearing PPE.

If external threat (building collapse, etc.) threatens, move victim(s) to safe area.

Do not undertake rescue without PPE
DEAD ANIMALS AND BIRDS AT THE SCENE

Deceased animals and birds at the scene will be handled as deceased people are handled,
expanding the Hot Zone to include their locations.

Once scene operations have concluded, SPCA will be notified of the presence of
deceased and contaminated animals.

It will be the responsibility of all members to exercise the appropriate control dictated by
his or her rank in the implementation of this operational guideline. Safety of personnel is
paramount.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Medical Assists
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.25
Page 1 of 2
MEDICAL ASSISTS
PURPOSE
To provide a guideline for providing professional medical support and/or other services to
the Emergency Medical Service.
 All medical assists with the ambulance will be at a non-emergency rate with the squad,
unless a specific piece of equipment is requested, or OIC orders differently. (i.e.: Truck to
get someone out of upper floors and/or roof, rescue for forcible entry, etc.)
 Universal precautions will be taken by all firefighters who will have patient contact; this
will include but not be limited to the use of latex or nitrile gloves.
 When arriving at the scene with the ambulance, if at all possible the apparatus will be
parked off the road, if this cannot be accomplished, the apparatus warning lights should be
turned on.
 All members will remain on apparatus when arriving at the scene. The OIC will ask for
the crew chief of the ambulance and advise them of the amount of personnel on the
apparatus and how many personnel they will need to accomplish the task. Only personnel
helping the ambulance will leave the apparatus, all others will remain on the apparatus.
 Firefighters should act professionally. Profanity and inappropriate comments will not be
tolerated.
 When going into patient’s house’s and the hospital, firefighters will not touch anything not
directly involved in patient care.
 When bad weather medical assists are dispatched or the squad is dispatched as a QRS to
begin care prior to the ambulances arrival, 1 EMT needs to be on the crew prior to
response. AED calls are exempt.
 AED Calls will be handled according to the AED policy.
 The EMT(s) will be responsible for giving the incoming EMS unit a report and assist as
needed.
 If the squad is dispatched for anything other than lifting, the OIC will contact the EMS
crew or LCWC and see if they want the response to be emergency or non-emergency. The
OIC will have the final determination on the response mode for the apparatus. AED
responses will be handled according to appropriate guideline.
 It will be the responsibility of every member to use the greatest amount of professionalism
possible in the implementation of this operating guideline.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Incident Reports
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.26
Page 1 of 2
INCIDENT REPORTS
PURPOSE: To provide a ready source of information in order to have complete and
accurate documentation of all incidents. It will be the responsibility of all members to
implement the appropriate control dictated by his or her rank in the implementation of
this operational guideline.
4.26.1 POLICY
1.
Reports will be completed by the chief responding to the scene or the person
riding the officer seat of the first out piece of equipment from the department
when returning to the station.
2.
No report will be removed from the firehouse without the fire chief being
notified.
3.
To be able to sign the report you must arrive at the station prior to the first
department responding unit returning to station.
4.
If you arrive at the station after the first piece has returned, unless the all
department units have been recalled, you are NOT eligible to sign the report. If
you stay at the station till the apparatus returns and assist with clean up the OIC
may permit you to sign if they deem necessary.
5.
Personnel at training at the department will be eligible to sign the report at the
discretion of the chief officer.
6.
If you arrive at the station before the apparatus returns and the apparatus has
been placed into service, YOU MUST remain at the station when the apparatus
returns to help return it to service, or you are not eligible to sign the report.
7.
Only the fire chief or designee has the authority to remove someone's name from
the report.
8.
Incident reports should be filled out legible and accurately.
9.
All vehicle accident report forms should be filled out accurately and be attached
to the report.
10.
The officer in charge on the first out piece of apparatus leaving the station is
responsible to gather all required information for the report.
12.
All completed reports will be signed and placed in the appropriate designated
spot.
13.
Incident reports are the property of the Columbia Borough Fire Department. No
report should be given out to anyone without authorization from the fire chief.
Columbia Borough Fire Department
Standard Operating Guidelines
Incident Reports
Developed – January 1, 2013
Section 4.26
Page 2 of 2
14.
All reports and information gathered should be legible and accurate, and entered
into Firehouse software within 24 hours of the incident.
15.
No non-members will be permitted to view the report.
16.
Anyone caught altering a department incident report in ANY fashion will face
immediate disciplinary actions. This includes removing names of individuals
without their expressed consent, or under the direction of the fire chief.
18.
It is each firefighter’s responsibility to sign the report. If their name is not on the
report, they will not be included for the incident.
19.
All non-members who are ride-alongs are required to sign the report.
20.
An incident report will be filed on all incidents in which the Columbia Borough
Fire Department is dispatched by LCWC. The OIC of all non-dispatched
incidents will decide if a report should be filed. If unsure complete a report and
contact the fire chief.
21.
The fire chief will assign an officer who will be responsible for data entry
oversight of the Firehouse software program.
22.
The department will submit all Firehouse information to all county and state
authorities requiring the information on a monthly basis in a timely manner.
23.
No reports will be copied by anyone without permission from the fire chief.
24.
The OIC will determine if additional reports are needed.
25.
If you respond to an incident after dispatch time has expired for relief or special
circumstances, you are permitted to sign the report. i.e. relief crews at extended
incidents, etc.
26.
Extenuating circumstances decided by the fire chief or OIC will be
handled on a case-by-case basis.
4.26.2 RESPONSIBILITY
It is the responsibility of every member to sign the report when returning from the
incident or responding to the fire house. If your name is not on the report, you did not
respond.
It is the responsibility of every officer or firefighter filling out the report to be as
accurate and detailed as possible on the information on the report.
Standard
Operating
Guidelines
Section 5.0
Appendix
Knox Box Facility Listings
The following facilities are equipped with the Knox Box System:
1. St. Peter’s Apartments(400 Union Street) Inside of door on Union St. side
2. Trinity House Apartments(400 Mill Street) Inside Main Door Entrance
3. Wagon Werks Apartments(920 Plane Street) Inside Lobby door
4. Sahd Salvage Center (1045 Lancaster Avenue) Utility pole at gate
5. ITT Engineered Valve (615 Florence Street) Side door entrance
6. Columbia Head-Start (815 Wright Street) Main Entrance, right side
7. Union National Bank (401 Locust Street) Parking lot under canopy
8. Apartment Building (43 S. Second Street) Main Entrance, left side
9. Empire TV (235 Locust Street) Wall, left side, opposite window
10. Exact Marketing (113 Walnut Street) Front Entrance
11. JP Herman’s Office (341 Chestnut Street) Fourth Street side
12. Baker Manufacturing (121 Locust Street) Front Door
13. Taylor Elementary (Ninth Street) Main Entrance
14. Park Elementary (Sixth Street) Main Entrance
15. Columbia High School (901 Ironville Pike) Main Entrance
16. Turkey Hill Experience, (301 Linden Street) Main Lobby
PROTOCOL FOR REQUEST OF PP&L
1. County Dispatcher is advised to call for an incident.
2. County Dispatcher calls the PP&L Contact Center with the information on the location of
the problem.
3. The Contact Center will notify the Trouble man of the problem via PP&L's radio system.
4. The Trouble-man will phone the County with ETA to the scene. At this time the County
Dispatcher will relay any important information to the Trouble-man responding.
5. In the event that the command officer feels a need to talk to the Trouble-man directly, this
can be accomplished via phone by contacting LCWC. This would be for Emergency
situations only.
DEPARTMENT UNIFORMS
PURPOSE: The purpose for developing a standard for a dress uniform is to continue our
high level of professionalism, present the look and feel of a team when assembled and
to maintain a pleasant image within the community.
The dress uniform is to be worn with pride and integrity. Each and every one of us will display
the Columbia Borough Fire Department name with honor. It is of the utmost importance that we
keep ourselves well groomed and clean while wearing the uniform. The uniform shall be worn
for parades that we participate in, firefighter funerals, Fire Safety Education presentations,
emergency services housings ceremonies, equipment displays, or anytime a uniform is
appropriate to achieve a positive image for the department.
The purchase of this uniform may put a financial strain on some individuals so the Equipment
Purchase Contract Program is available to acquire the uniform. For those who cannot meet the
requirements but would like to attend the functions, he or she should contact the Fire Chief or
Duty Officer for assistance.
The Fire Department Class C uniform consists of the following elements:
 SHIRT: Fire Department tee shirt (short or long) or job shirt

TROUSERS: Navy blue cotton Southeastern style #3001.

JACKET: (optional) Navy blue Southeastern

SHOES: Black dress shoes or station boots.

SOCKS: Blue dress socks.

BELT: Black dress belt with a buckle.
The Fire Department Class B uniform consists of the following elements:
 SHIRT: Short sleeve with crease Southeastern style #3201. Navy Blue for Junior
Firefighters and all members other than Chief Officers. White shall be worn by the
Chief, Deputy Chief and Assistant Chief. Long sleeve shirts are optional.

TROUSERS: Navy blue cotton Southeastern style #3001.

JACKET: (optional) Navy blue Southeastern

SHOES: Black dress shoes or station boots.

SOCKS: Blue dress socks.

BELT: Black dress belt with a buckle.

BADGES: The standard Fire Department badge shall be similar to Blackington #B39 to
be located above the left pocket. The badges that are available are:
Firefighter- silver badge with #A6990 red insert.
Lieutenant- silver badge with #A7209 red insert.
Captain- silver badge with #A7208 red insert.
Engineer- silver badge with #A6990 red insert.
Asst. Chief- gold badge with #A7206 red insert.
Deputy Chief- gold badge with #A7250 red insert.
Chief- gold badge with #A7205 red insert.

COLLAR PINS: Two collar pins Hook Fast Specialties Company are required, one on
the point of each collar pointing toward the point. The collar pins that are available are:
Firefighter-#3599 silver with red #2757 insert.
Firefighter-#3599 silver with blue #2757 insert for Junior Firefighters.
Lieutenant-#3274 silver with red #2758 insert.
Captain- Silver#3273 with red #2759 insert.
Chief Engineer-#4453 silver with red #2757 insert.
Asst. Chief-#3272 gold with red #2761 insert.
Deputy Chief-#3272 gold with red #2762 insert.
Chief-#3269 gold with red #2763 insert.

NAME PLATES: All name plates will be located immediately above the right pocket.
Plate shall include your full proper name in 1/4" high black block lettering. The name
plate shall have a finish and beveled edges. The size should be 5/8" high by 2-1/2" long.
The following name plates are available: Silver-all members except Chief, Deputy and
Assistant Chief. Gold- Chief, Deputy and Assistant Chief only.

PATCHES: The following patches shall be worn on the uniform: Department Patch
should be located on the left sleeve 1 finger width below the shoulder seam. Columbia
Borough Fire Department patch shall be worn on the right sleeve with the same spacing.
WINTER UNIFORM POLICY
 The winter or cold weather uniform of the firefighters will consist of the same as the
standard uniform.
 Jackets will be at the discretion of the chief or highest line officer.
 All firefighters should attempt to wear the same jackets, if they are worn.
OFFICER UNIFORM POLICY; CLASS "A"
 Navy blue pants-neatly pressed with no additional pockets or snaps, other than two hand
pockets and rear pockets already provided. If issued or wearing "Class A Jacket", pants
color should match jacket.

Black 1 1/2" leather belt. Smooth with no decorative buckles. Silver buckle is required.
Gold buckle will be worn by chief officers.

All will wear white pleated short sleeve uniform shirts. Patches will consist of company
patch on right sleeve sewn 1finger below seam. Left sleeve will consist of American
flag sewn 1 finger below seam. Long sleeve shirts may be utilized if OIC of event
approves.

Tee shirt under uniform shirt will consist of white tee shirt with no type of markings,
pictures or symbols, and it is recommended that a tee shirt be worn. All personnel
wearing navy blue shirts have the choice of wearing white or navy blue tee shirts. The
only acceptable logos, symbols, or pictures on tee shirt will be that of the Columbia
Borough Fire Department. No others will be accepted.

Badge will consist of standard company badge, gold for chiefs with appropriate
markings. All others will wear silver badges with appropriate markings.

Designation of officers will be that of trumpets. Following number of trumpets will
designate officers:
5 Trumpets
Chief
Gold
4 Trumpets
Deputy
Gold
3 Trumpets
Assist
Gold
2 Trumpets
Captain
Silver
1 Trumpet
Lieutenant
Silver






Collar brass for officers will consist of trumpets representing their rank. Gold trumpets
will represent chiefs; silver will represent captains and lieutenants. Collar insignias will
be worn on both collars. Bell of trumpet will point to tip of collar.

Nametag for chiefs will be gold placed on right chest above pocket. Nametag for
captains and lieutenants will be silver, also worn on right chest. Nametag will have first
initial, last name on tag. No decorative symbols of any type.

Tie will be black with no bow ties. If tiepins are worn, they will be worn by all
firefighters on apparatus or in-group. Every firefighter will wear same type and color
tiepin.

Blue or black socks will be worn with shoes.

Shoes will be black polished, low cut if possible. They will be laced or zippered.

No hats of any type will be worn.


Officer Class A Jacket will be Navy Blue
Official department patch will be on both sleeves of jackets sewn 1finger below the
seam.
Sleeve stripes will consist of the following: (Both Sleeves)
 Chief
5 Stripes
Gold
 Deputy Chief
4 Stripes
Gold
 Assistant Chief 3 Stripes
Gold
 Captain
2 Stripes
Gold
 Lieutenants
1 Stripe
Gold
 Firefighters
No Stripe


Jacket buttons will be following color:
 Chief
Gold





Deputy Chief
Assistant Chief
Captain
Lieutenants
Firefighters
Gold
Gold
Silver
Silver
Silver
OFFICER SEAT EXAM
You are dispatched for a reported fire on the 5th floor of an elderly high-rise. What is your plan?
HELICOPTER LANDING ZONES
PURPOSE: To provide an operational guideline for the safe landing zone for the
department members, patients, EMS and the helicopter crew.
1. RESPONSES/LANDING ZONES
 Depending on the type of incident, a specific type of helicopter may be requested.
Lifelion Aeromedical Services is first due helicopter in area for medical lifts. State
Police helicopter is first due in region for Search & Rescue incidents.
 If dispatched for landing zone stand-by in the Borough, establish with incident
commander who will communicate with the helicopter, the incident commander or OIC
of landing zone. Preferably the OIC of the landing zone should have all communications
with the aircraft.
 If dispatched for landing zone standby out of the Borough, the Duty Officer will have full
communications with helicopter, unless the OIC of incident states otherwise.
2. ACTIVITIES AT ASSIGNED LANDING ZONE
 An area approximately 100'X100' is requested for landing zone area. One cone will be
placed on all four corners and one additional cone will be placed on side which wind is
coming from. Landing zone must be secured to prevent bystanders and EMS/Fire
personnel from entering zone when aircraft is approaching.
 SAFETY OF PERSONNEL AND BYSTANDERS IS PARAMOUNT.
 All members of the fire department should be in full turnout gear, with SCBA on (Not in
use), including eye protection and Class II Safety Vest.
 Largest dry chemical or Purple K fire extinguisher available should be removed from
apparatus and manned during landing and takeoff. NO HOSELINES should be removed
during takeoff or landing.
 All loose objects should be secured by landing zone personnel.
 When aircraft has landed the OIC of the LZ will contact the incident commander and seek
further instructions if needed.
 Never approach the helicopter until told to do so by a member of the flight team or the
OIC of the LZ.
 Approach and depart only from the front of the helicopter, always in view of the pilot.
 Loading and unloading of patients and equipment will be at the direction of the flight
team and OIC. Flight team may contact EMS crew for a brief patient report.
 Only personnel assisting with the stretcher are to accompany the flight team back to the
aircraft.
 Do not lift anything above shoulder height.
 All personnel should exit LZ from the same way they entered.
 OIC of the LZ will communicate with the pilot when all personnel are clear of the
aircraft.
 After aircraft is in the air, the OIC of the LZ will contact the incident commander and
request if there services are needed any longer.
 If incident commander suspects he may need a helicopter but is not sure, he may place the
aircraft on standby which simply alerts aircraft crew of possible assist to your incident. It
is preferable that EMS is consulted prior to requesting a helicopter.
 The ideal location for the LZ will be free of obstructions including trees, wires and
building. The LZ will also be in a relatively level location.
3. NIGHTTIME LANDING ZONE PROCEDURES
 The only vehicle with emergency lighting in use will be the engine
standing by for the landing zone. All other vehicles will shut off their lights if near the
scene and if possible.
 On the four corner cones of the LZ, 1 single flare per corner will be placed to illuminate
the corners.
 No lights will be shined on the aircraft while attempting to land.
 After the aircraft is safely on the ground, 1 light may be placed to illuminate a path to the
aircraft.
 If available, 1 person will be placed approximately 75' from LZ on each side of LZ to
prevent personnel and bystanders from entering LZ.
 Light tower will NOT be raised during landing of aircraft. Minimal use of lights will be
used to illuminate the LZ during the helicopter landing.
4.

MUTUAL AIDE ASSISTS (OUT OF BOROUGH)
If the Fire Department is dispatched to assist a mutual aide department with an LZ, the
OIC of the responding apparatus will keep in constant communications with the
designated command as to the status of the helicopter.
5.
COMMUNICATIONS
 It is imperative that constant communications is kept with the incident commander or
with the assigned helicopter to the incident.
 When heavy radio traffic is happening at the incident, the OIC assigned to the landing
zone will contact the incident commander for utilization of a second channel. It is
preferred a second channel is utilized.
 The OIC of the LZ will communicate as much pertinent information on the LZ to the
pilot of the incoming helicopter. This information will include but not be limited to
obstructions near and around the site, type of terrain landing on etc.

Treat EVERYONE professionally.