1 communications training introduction to: 800 mhz radio

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Communications TrainingCommunications TrainingIntroduction to:Introduction to:800 MHz Radio800 MHz Radio

Radio Communications 101Radio Communications 101

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ObJectives:ObJectives:

1.1. A general introduction to 2-way radio A general introduction to 2-way radio communications systemscommunications systems

2.2. Specifics of the MetroSafe 800 MHz, Specifics of the MetroSafe 800 MHz, Regional Communications Systems (RCS)Regional Communications Systems (RCS)

Our Current SystemOur Current SystemVery High Frequency (VHF)Very High Frequency (VHF)

One frequency per channel.One frequency per channel.Manual control of towers from the Manual control of towers from the Dispatch Center.Dispatch Center.May go through Repeater or Direct Radio May go through Repeater or Direct Radio to Radioto RadioMay be “voted” - Many sites receive but May be “voted” - Many sites receive but only one transmits.only one transmits.You need to select the proper “Tone”You need to select the proper “Tone” to talk to the dispatcher!to talk to the dispatcher!

Very High Frequency (VHF)Very High Frequency (VHF)Ultra High Frequency (UHF)Ultra High Frequency (UHF)

May go through Repeater or Direct Radio to RadioMay go through Repeater or Direct Radio to Radio

Pros & Cons of SimplexPros & Cons of Simplex

“ “Simplex”Simplex” refers to conventional ‘radio-to-radio’ function refers to conventional ‘radio-to-radio’ function where two radios are tuned to the same frequency. As where two radios are tuned to the same frequency. As long as the radios are within range of each other and long as the radios are within range of each other and tuned to the same frequency the user will be able to tuned to the same frequency the user will be able to push to talk and release to listen at all times.push to talk and release to listen at all times.

Pro – The use of simplex ensures that radio users within Pro – The use of simplex ensures that radio users within range (generally two miles or less) and tuned to the range (generally two miles or less) and tuned to the same channel will hear each other. same channel will hear each other.

Con– Simplex dedicates the full-time use of a frequency; Con– Simplex dedicates the full-time use of a frequency; in other words, the resource is committed, even when no in other words, the resource is committed, even when no one is talking. one is talking.

The New SystemThe New System

800 Megahertz 800 Megahertz

DigitalDigital

TrunkedTrunked

SimulcastSimulcast

Digital vs AnalogDigital vs Analog

DigitalDigitalNot as susceptible to Not as susceptible to obstacles in path of radio obstacles in path of radio wave travelwave travel

Receiving radio has Receiving radio has circuits that try to correct circuits that try to correct items blocked during items blocked during radio wave travelradio wave travel

All or nothing when All or nothing when receiving communicationsreceiving communications

AnalogAnalogRadio wave can be Radio wave can be degraded by obstacles degraded by obstacles and distanceand distance

Analog cannot correct Analog cannot correct and you only receive and you only receive “some” of the “some” of the transmission when radio transmission when radio wave is obstructedwave is obstructed

TrunkedTrunked

Multiple Voice Channels and One Control Multiple Voice Channels and One Control ChannelChannel

Control Channel prohibits “walk over”Control Channel prohibits “walk over”

Control Channel allows emergency Control Channel allows emergency messages to become priority – Emergency messages to become priority – Emergency button gives user highest priority button gives user highest priority

MetroSafe will have 23 Voice Channels MetroSafe will have 23 Voice Channels and 1 Control Channeland 1 Control Channel

TrunkedTrunked

The control channel is used by the system The control channel is used by the system to automatically switch each radio on a to automatically switch each radio on a given talkgroup to the same voice channel.given talkgroup to the same voice channel.

A voice channel is where the actual A voice channel is where the actual conversations take place.conversations take place.

Trunking is a method to make the most Trunking is a method to make the most efficient use of voice channels. efficient use of voice channels.

TrunkedTrunked

Trunked Radio SystemsTrunked Radio Systems share a small share a small pool of frequencies among a large number pool of frequencies among a large number of users. They can do this because of users. They can do this because communications are generally short communications are generally short (typically less than 5 seconds long,) and a (typically less than 5 seconds long,) and a particular channel might be busy less than particular channel might be busy less than 5% of the time. System users are 5% of the time. System users are assigned to "talkgroups" which function as assigned to "talkgroups" which function as virtual channels. virtual channels.

TrunkedTrunked

When a user makes a call, the radio When a user makes a call, the radio transmits its current group ID and a request transmits its current group ID and a request for a radio channel (frequency pair) to the for a radio channel (frequency pair) to the computer which controls the trunking computer which controls the trunking system. The computer then sends out a system. The computer then sends out a “channel grant” specifying which radio “channel grant” specifying which radio channel to use, and telling every other channel to use, and telling every other radio in that user’s group to also go to that radio in that user’s group to also go to that radio channel and monitor for traffic. radio channel and monitor for traffic.

TrunkedTrunked

When the user stops transmitting, the When the user stops transmitting, the frequency is released so that it is available frequency is released so that it is available for the next group to use, which can be for the next group to use, which can be any other users of the system. On a any other users of the system. On a trunking radio, a “channel” is not the trunking radio, a “channel” is not the frequency in use, but is rather the code frequency in use, but is rather the code (Talk Group ID) assigned to a particular (Talk Group ID) assigned to a particular group of users on the system to identify group of users on the system to identify them to that computer. them to that computer.

TrunkedTrunked

The benefit of this technology to the The benefit of this technology to the agencies is that many more virtual agencies is that many more virtual channels are available for specialized channels are available for specialized traffic than there are frequencies. For traffic than there are frequencies. For example, the Fort Worth trunked system example, the Fort Worth trunked system has only 20 frequencies, but services over has only 20 frequencies, but services over 400 talkgroups. All radio channels in a 400 talkgroups. All radio channels in a trunking system are repeaters, so system trunking system are repeaters, so system traffic can be widely heard. traffic can be widely heard.

TrunkedTrunked

Priorities: In rare situations there may be Priorities: In rare situations there may be more requests to use the radio system - in more requests to use the radio system - in our case 24 desires to converse cannot be our case 24 desires to converse cannot be accommodated by 23 voice channels. accommodated by 23 voice channels. Should this happen, a priority system is in Should this happen, a priority system is in place. This gives people with a more place. This gives people with a more critical function, such as emergency critical function, such as emergency responders, faster access to the system responders, faster access to the system than the garbage truck driver.than the garbage truck driver.

EncryptionEncryption

The MetroSafe radio systems uses two The MetroSafe radio systems uses two levels of encryption so that sensitive levels of encryption so that sensitive communications remain confidential.communications remain confidential.

Low level encryption is used on Medical Low level encryption is used on Medical Channels so that private medical Channels so that private medical information relating to a patient cannot be information relating to a patient cannot be heard by the public having scanners. heard by the public having scanners. However these conversations can be However these conversations can be heard by MetroSafe radios.heard by MetroSafe radios.

EncryptionEncryption

High Level Encryption is a more complex system. It is High Level Encryption is a more complex system. It is used for conversations requiring a greater amount of used for conversations requiring a greater amount of privacy, such as during police SWATT operations, or for privacy, such as during police SWATT operations, or for arson while conducting a surveillance operation.arson while conducting a surveillance operation.

Only those MetroSafe radios specifically configured can Only those MetroSafe radios specifically configured can receive high level encryption (the top 3 command officers receive high level encryption (the top 3 command officers for each department).for each department).

It could be used by fire command to discuss an injured It could be used by fire command to discuss an injured firefighter’s condition without it being heard by undesired firefighter’s condition without it being heard by undesired listeners, such as the firefighter’s family monitoring the listeners, such as the firefighter’s family monitoring the incident on a scanner.incident on a scanner.

Pros and Cons of TrunkingPros and Cons of Trunking

Pro – Trunked radios allow a large number Pro – Trunked radios allow a large number of radio users to have individual talkgroups of radio users to have individual talkgroups (channels) while sharing a pool of (channels) while sharing a pool of frequencies over a large geographical area. frequencies over a large geographical area.

Pro – Talkgroups(channels) can be joined Pro – Talkgroups(channels) can be joined together for interoperability. together for interoperability.

Con – The ability to communicate is Con – The ability to communicate is dependent on the radio user’s connectivity dependent on the radio user’s connectivity with a repeater. If the radio cannot reach a with a repeater. If the radio cannot reach a repeater, the user will not be able to repeater, the user will not be able to communicate communicate

SimulcastSimulcast

Allows a user to be broadcast from all Allows a user to be broadcast from all transmitters simultaneouslytransmitters simultaneously

Greatly reduces, does not eliminate, dead Greatly reduces, does not eliminate, dead spots within the service area spots within the service area

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Topology of 2-way CommunicationsTopology of 2-way Communications

Simplex- AKA direct or talk-around. – Your transmit and Simplex- AKA direct or talk-around. – Your transmit and receive frequencies are the same. You do not “go receive frequencies are the same. You do not “go through” a repeater. through” a repeater.

Repeater- Your transmit and receive frequencies are Repeater- Your transmit and receive frequencies are different and are routed through a remote radio site. different and are routed through a remote radio site.

Simulcast- Broadcasting a message over multiple Simulcast- Broadcasting a message over multiple transmitters throughout a geographical region at transmitters throughout a geographical region at precisely the same timeprecisely the same time

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MetroSafe Repeater SitesMetroSafe Repeater Sites

Delta Dental 9901 Linn Station Road.Delta Dental 9901 Linn Station Road. Fern Creek Fire 9409 Bardstown Road.Fern Creek Fire 9409 Bardstown Road. Waverly Hills 4800 Waverly Park Dr.Waverly Hills 4800 Waverly Park Dr. Meidinger Tower 462 South 4th StreetMeidinger Tower 462 South 4th Street Watterson Lake Park Old Manslick Road and I-264Watterson Lake Park Old Manslick Road and I-264 Hubbards Lane 4400 Hubbards Ln.Hubbards Lane 4400 Hubbards Ln. Petersburg 4601 Old Shepherdsville Road.Petersburg 4601 Old Shepherdsville Road. Utica Charlestown Road. Utica IndianaUtica Charlestown Road. Utica Indiana I-71 at County Line Hitt Lane and Ballardsville Rd.I-71 at County Line Hitt Lane and Ballardsville Rd. Hopewell New Hopewell Road and I-265Hopewell New Hopewell Road and I-265 Mitchell Hill Mitchell Hill Road (top of hill)Mitchell Hill Mitchell Hill Road (top of hill) Transmitter 1306 Bardstown Road.Transmitter 1306 Bardstown Road.

MetroSafe Repeater SitesMetroSafe Repeater Sites

Why are we changing? Why are we changing? There are a limited number of radio There are a limited number of radio

frequencies available with our current frequencies available with our current VHF/UHF radio systems. VHF/UHF radio systems.

One radio can't communicate with all One radio can't communicate with all public safety communities - you would public safety communities - you would have to carry 10 separate radios to have to carry 10 separate radios to communicate with all of them. communicate with all of them.

The new system provides the ability of two The new system provides the ability of two different agencies to communicate with different agencies to communicate with each other, on demand, and in real time. each other, on demand, and in real time.

The 800 MHz band has the capability of The 800 MHz band has the capability of providing nearly 150 frequencies for the providing nearly 150 frequencies for the metro area to operate on a single radio metro area to operate on a single radio system. system.

800 MHz – The FDNY Questions800 MHz – The FDNY Questions

In the aftermath of September 11th, many questions have arisen about communications difficulties that were encountered. Reading many of the articles the term

communications was not limited to radio technology. Many communications were procedural and operational. Since we are in the midst of a large-scale radio system

change, the communications problems encountered in NYC were looked at from a radio technology standpoint.

In March 2001, the Fire Department of New York made an attempt to switch to newer digital technology. While these radios were digital, they were not trunked. The

department remained on their old frequencies but switched to digital radios. This can be likened to switching from analog cell phone service to digital. The department did

minimal training, and the radios acted differently than the old analog radios. Since the users had minimal training, they were not aware of some of the operating characteristics

of the new radios. Users soon complained of poor communications. After one week in the field, the digital radios were pulled from service. The New York Fire Department

conceded that they had moved too fast in an effort to get the radios into the hands of the firefighters. The commissioner stated that the core problem was the failure of the fire department to properly train the firefighters about the characteristics of the new digital technology. These radios were reprogrammed back to the analog mode. The digital

mode has not been utilized since March 2001.

It was also reported that communications were so poor that when a city engineer said the buildings were at risk of imminent collapse, a runner had to be sent to notify the ranking fire chief. What was not

mentioned is that the chief who received the report was Chief Peruggia of the EMS Bureau. The EMS Bureau does not have the same radios as the fire department. The only options the chief had were to send a runner or obtain a fire department radio so that he could notify them of the buildings’ conditions. This was an inter-

operability problem between city departments. When the aircraft hit the Trade Center, a radio repeater was

destroyed. This repeater had been installed on the tower to improve radio coverage in the area. This resulted in diminished radio

coverage. To what extent this contributed to loss of life can only be guessed. It was reported that many did not hear the order to

evacuate. The loss of a repeater could be a contributing factor.

800 MHz – The FDNY Questions800 MHz – The FDNY Questions

Key points as they relate to a trunked Key points as they relate to a trunked radio system radio system

Digital technology was not a factor. The digital radios Digital technology was not a factor. The digital radios were removed from service. The problems were removed from service. The problems encountered in NYC are not comparable to the system encountered in NYC are not comparable to the system we will have in Louisville. A computer will act as a we will have in Louisville. A computer will act as a traffic cop – allowing only one user to talk at a time. traffic cop – allowing only one user to talk at a time.

The fire department is planning a detailed training The fire department is planning a detailed training program so that our users will be proficient and program so that our users will be proficient and comfortable in the operation of the new radio system. comfortable in the operation of the new radio system.

Radio communications inter-operability caused difficult Radio communications inter-operability caused difficult communications between departments. The new communications between departments. The new system is designed with a focus on inter-operabilitysystem is designed with a focus on inter-operability

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Voice Channel AssignmentVoice Channel Assignment

When your radio is When your radio is keyed up the Central keyed up the Central Controller, through Controller, through the Control Channel, the Control Channel, assigns you a voice assigns you a voice channel.channel.

All other radios using All other radios using the same Talkgroup, the same Talkgroup, in the area of the in the area of the same tower, will then same tower, will then use the same voice use the same voice channel.channel.

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Basic 800 SystemBasic 800 System

This slide This slide represents represents four four Agencies Agencies using a four using a four channel 800 channel 800 Site.Site.

Positive – Trunked radios allow a large number of radio users to Positive – Trunked radios allow a large number of radio users to have individual talkgroups(channels) while sharing a pool of have individual talkgroups(channels) while sharing a pool of frequencies over a large geographical area. frequencies over a large geographical area.

Positive – Talkgroups(channels) can be joined together for Positive – Talkgroups(channels) can be joined together for interoperability. interoperability.

Negative – The ability to communicate is dependant on the radio Negative – The ability to communicate is dependant on the radio user’s connectivity with a repeater. If the radio cannot reach a user’s connectivity with a repeater. If the radio cannot reach a repeater, the user will not be able to communicate repeater, the user will not be able to communicate

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800 Talk Group Types800 Talk Group Types Note: See the MetroSafe 800 Fleet Map, for a complete list of Note: See the MetroSafe 800 Fleet Map, for a complete list of

Zones installed in the departments 800’s.Zones installed in the departments 800’s.

DispatchDispatch - - Talkgroup designated for the dispatch Talkgroup designated for the dispatch center (MetroSafe) to alert firefighters of an incident center (MetroSafe) to alert firefighters of an incident to which they should respond. This is a “one way” to which they should respond. This is a “one way” path. Field units should not transmit on this path. Field units should not transmit on this channel.channel. For suburban fire, the JCF PAGE talkgroup is patched to For suburban fire, the JCF PAGE talkgroup is patched to

the VHF fire paging frequency so that both fire pagers and the VHF fire paging frequency so that both fire pagers and new radios hear the dispatch information at the same time.new radios hear the dispatch information at the same time.

For urban fire, the LFD ALERT talkgroup is patched to the For urban fire, the LFD ALERT talkgroup is patched to the Fire Station Alerting System so the both new radios and Fire Station Alerting System so the both new radios and the FSAS hear the dispatch information at the same time.the FSAS hear the dispatch information at the same time.

Operations Operations - - Talkgroup designated for Talkgroup designated for communications at incidents between responders at communications at incidents between responders at the scene and also with the dispatch center the scene and also with the dispatch center (MetroSafe). MetroSafe monitors Operations (MetroSafe). MetroSafe monitors Operations Channels. They are designated FIRE 1 through Channels. They are designated FIRE 1 through FIRE 8. Fire 1, 2, 5, and 6 monitored. FIRE 8. Fire 1, 2, 5, and 6 monitored.

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800 Talk Group Types800 Talk Group TypesUrbanUrban

Note: See the MetroSafe 800 Fleet Map, for a complete list of Note: See the MetroSafe 800 Fleet Map, for a complete list of Zones installed in the departments 800’s.Zones installed in the departments 800’s.

FIRE 1FIRE 1 is in the channel 1 and channel 16 position is in the channel 1 and channel 16 position on all fire radios for all zones. on all fire radios for all zones.

That was done so that a responder in trouble can That was done so that a responder in trouble can rotate the channel selector knob as far as it will go rotate the channel selector knob as far as it will go in either direction and will have a fire dispatcher on in either direction and will have a fire dispatcher on the receiving end.the receiving end.

Good time to note that Urban fire radios will have Good time to note that Urban fire radios will have their channels programmed identically. their channels programmed identically.

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800 Talk Group Types800 Talk Group TypesSuburbanSuburban

Note: See the MetroSafe 800 Fleet Map, for a complete list of Note: See the MetroSafe 800 Fleet Map, for a complete list of Zones installed in the departments 800’s.Zones installed in the departments 800’s.

FIRE 5FIRE 5 is in the channel 1 and channel 16 position is in the channel 1 and channel 16 position on all fire radios for all zones. on all fire radios for all zones.

That was done so that a responder in trouble can That was done so that a responder in trouble can rotate the channel selector knob as far as it will go rotate the channel selector knob as far as it will go in either direction and will have a fire dispatcher on in either direction and will have a fire dispatcher on the receiving end.the receiving end.

Good time to note that Suburban fire radios will Good time to note that Suburban fire radios will have their channels programmed identically. That have their channels programmed identically. That means a firefighter from department A can pick up a means a firefighter from department A can pick up a department Z radio and will know which channels department Z radio and will know which channels are which without having to do much thinking.are which without having to do much thinking. Exception – Channel position 11 in Zone A which is a Exception – Channel position 11 in Zone A which is a

department specific tactical channeldepartment specific tactical channel

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TacticalTactical - - Talkgroup designated for communications Talkgroup designated for communications between field units only. between field units only. MetroSafe does NOT MetroSafe does NOT monitor Tactical channels.monitor Tactical channels.

Tactical channels may be used at incident scenes Tactical channels may be used at incident scenes when the IC chooses to do so.when the IC chooses to do so.

FD TAC 1 and FD TAC 2 are general Tactical FD TAC 1 and FD TAC 2 are general Tactical Channels available to all fire departments. Can be Channels available to all fire departments. Can be used during Haz Mat or special rescue incidents.used during Haz Mat or special rescue incidents.

F TAC xx are department specific tactical channels F TAC xx are department specific tactical channels where xx corresponds to the department number, where xx corresponds to the department number, such as 11 for Highview. (Every radio will have such as 11 for Highview. (Every radio will have access to all department specific tactical channels access to all department specific tactical channels should the need arise.)should the need arise.)

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Mutual AidMutual Aid - - Talkgroup designated for Talkgroup designated for communications between different agencies or for communications between different agencies or for administrative contact with MetroSafe (such as for administrative contact with MetroSafe (such as for complex status changes). complex status changes).

All MetroSafe radios (police, fire, EMS and local All MetroSafe radios (police, fire, EMS and local government users) have Mutual Aid talkgroups. government users) have Mutual Aid talkgroups. They are MUTAID 1, MUTAID 2, MUTAID 3.They are MUTAID 1, MUTAID 2, MUTAID 3.

SimplexSimplex – is a channel that by-passes the radio – is a channel that by-passes the radio system and is intended for use in areas with poor or system and is intended for use in areas with poor or ineffective system coverage. Radios will be ineffective system coverage. Radios will be programmed with a “No Service” alert, which programmed with a “No Service” alert, which informs users they are in a dead zone. If this alert informs users they are in a dead zone. If this alert activates at an incident, responders should back out activates at an incident, responders should back out to where there was coverage and inform command to where there was coverage and inform command that simplex use is necessary. that simplex use is necessary. MetroSafe cannot MetroSafe cannot monitor the Simplex channel.monitor the Simplex channel.

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Department specific tactical channels can be Department specific tactical channels can be equated to “Command”, “Training” or “Channel 8” equated to “Command”, “Training” or “Channel 8” with the current radios.with the current radios.

Command talkgroupsCommand talkgroups are used for command and are used for command and control communications while conducting control communications while conducting operations. Command talkgroups are found in operations. Command talkgroups are found in command radios only.command radios only.

These are encrypted talkgroups and cannot be These are encrypted talkgroups and cannot be monitored by other radios or scanners.monitored by other radios or scanners.

There is a Fire Command talkgroup (FD CMD), and There is a Fire Command talkgroup (FD CMD), and an All Command talkgroup (ALL CMD). The All an All Command talkgroup (ALL CMD). The All Command talkgroup would be used for appropriate Command talkgroup would be used for appropriate communications between other agencies such as communications between other agencies such as Police/Fire, EMS/Police, Fire/EMS.Police/Fire, EMS/Police, Fire/EMS.

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800 Interoperable Channels800 Interoperable Channels Note: See the MetroSafe 800 Fleet Map, for a complete list of Note: See the MetroSafe 800 Fleet Map, for a complete list of


These channels have been established by the These channels have been established by the National Public Safety Telecommunications Council. National Public Safety Telecommunications Council. They are common to all public safety radios nationwide.They are common to all public safety radios nationwide. This means if we get called to another Hurricane Katrina, This means if we get called to another Hurricane Katrina,

we can take our radios down to New Orleans and we can take our radios down to New Orleans and communicate with responders there.communicate with responders there.

Calling Calling - - Channel designated for a person from one Channel designated for a person from one agency to contact any person from the same or agency to contact any person from the same or another agency or Dispatch Center. Once contact another agency or Dispatch Center. Once contact is made, the conversation should be switched to an is made, the conversation should be switched to an available tactical talkgroup. It is named 8CALL90 in available tactical talkgroup. It is named 8CALL90 in our radiosour radios

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800 Interoperable Channels800 Interoperable Channels Note: See the MetroSafe 800 Fleet Map, for a complete list of Note: See the MetroSafe 800 Fleet Map, for a complete list of


TacticalTactical - - Channel designed to hold conversations, Channel designed to hold conversations, or conduct tactical operations between responders or conduct tactical operations between responders and between responders and their IC. They are and between responders and their IC. They are named 8TAC91-8TAC94 our radios. named 8TAC91-8TAC94 our radios.

8TAC92 is the recommended fire tactical channel8TAC92 is the recommended fire tactical channel.. 8TAC91 is the recommended police channel.8TAC91 is the recommended police channel. 8TAC93 is the recommended medical channel.8TAC93 is the recommended medical channel. 8TAC94 is the recommended command and control 8TAC94 is the recommended command and control

channel.channel.

If the channel has a “D” beside the name, it is a If the channel has a “D” beside the name, it is a direct/simplex channel which bypasses a repeater.direct/simplex channel which bypasses a repeater. First attempt to use a Repeater channel. If First attempt to use a Repeater channel. If

communications cannot be established, assume there is communications cannot be established, assume there is no repeater coverage in the area.no repeater coverage in the area.

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Site Trunking is a back up mode that maintains site communications Site Trunking is a back up mode that maintains site communications without disrupting the rest of the zone. So, Transmissions at the site are without disrupting the rest of the zone. So, Transmissions at the site are only re-broadcast at that site, and transmissions at other sites are not re-only re-broadcast at that site, and transmissions at other sites are not re-broadcast at the site in Site Trunking.broadcast at the site in Site Trunking.

If this occurs, you may not be able to contact your dispatcher . To If this occurs, you may not be able to contact your dispatcher . To reestablish a connection with the central computer, you may need to do reestablish a connection with the central computer, you may need to do one or both of the following: one or both of the following: (1) change locations until your radio affiliates with another repeater, (1) change locations until your radio affiliates with another repeater,

IMPORTANTIMPORTANT – If a 800 site goes completely off the air you will only be able to – If a 800 site goes completely off the air you will only be able to communicate locally on one of the “conventional” channels (8TAC91-8TAC94 communicate locally on one of the “conventional” channels (8TAC91-8TAC94 or SIMPLEX channels).or SIMPLEX channels).

Dispatch Center EvacuationDispatch Center EvacuationHandout “E”Handout “E”

All Firefighter tone group activatedAll Firefighter tone group activated Announcement made that center will be Announcement made that center will be

temporarily out of servicetemporarily out of service Metrosafe re-located to 768 BarrettMetrosafe re-located to 768 Barrett During the time center is out of service Severe During the time center is out of service Severe

Weather Procedure shall be implemented.Weather Procedure shall be implemented. Metro safe shall relay any calls for service to Metro safe shall relay any calls for service to

appropriate fire district’s via FIRE 8appropriate fire district’s via FIRE 8

Dispatch Center Evacuation Dispatch Center Evacuation If back up dispatch center is activated a If back up dispatch center is activated a

test of radio equipment will be conducted.test of radio equipment will be conducted.A test of all Fire Operations Channels and A test of all Fire Operations Channels and

activation of fire pagers will be conductedactivation of fire pagers will be conductedMetrosafe shall confirm with fire Metrosafe shall confirm with fire

department units that Operations channels department units that Operations channels and fire pager activation was successfuland fire pager activation was successful

Upon completion of successful testing the Upon completion of successful testing the Severe Weather Procedure shall be Severe Weather Procedure shall be terminated terminated

Radio Trunking System Controller Radio Trunking System Controller Failure Failure

If the trunking central controller or all voice If the trunking central controller or all voice channels fail, the radio system has a “Fail-Soft” channels fail, the radio system has a “Fail-Soft” feature.feature.

All MetroSafe radios are programmed to All MetroSafe radios are programmed to automatically react to a “failsoft” condition. This automatically react to a “failsoft” condition. This is displayed on the radio when this happens.is displayed on the radio when this happens.

Several talkgroups are automatically combined Several talkgroups are automatically combined during a Failsoft condition, thus reducing the during a Failsoft condition, thus reducing the number available for use.number available for use.

Radio traffic must be kept to a minimum during Radio traffic must be kept to a minimum during this time due to the reduced number of this time due to the reduced number of talkgroupstalkgroups

Radio Trunking System Controller Radio Trunking System Controller FailureFailure

MetroSafe will activate the All Firefighter MetroSafe will activate the All Firefighter tone group and make an announcement tone group and make an announcement that the system is in failsoft conditionthat the system is in failsoft condition..

The Severe Weather Procedure shall be in The Severe Weather Procedure shall be in effect during the failsoft conditioneffect during the failsoft condition

FIRE 8 will be used to relay all calls for FIRE 8 will be used to relay all calls for service from MetroSafe to the Fire service from MetroSafe to the Fire DepartmentsDepartments

MUTAID 1 shall be used for fire MUTAID 1 shall be used for fire departments to contact MetroSafedepartments to contact MetroSafe


All Fire Department Tactical Channels will All Fire Department Tactical Channels will be combined into one.be combined into one.

(A department could use its old VHF radio (A department could use its old VHF radio equipment for conversations that would equipment for conversations that would have been on the Tactical Channels). have been on the Tactical Channels).

The Simplex Channel will still work.The Simplex Channel will still work.The 8TAC channels will still work.The 8TAC channels will still work.


When the failsoft is corrected MetroSafe When the failsoft is corrected MetroSafe shall test the Fire Operations Channels shall test the Fire Operations Channels and Fire Pager activationand Fire Pager activation

After successful testing Severe Weather After successful testing Severe Weather Procedure shall be terminatedProcedure shall be terminated

Event ChannelsEvent ChannelsHandout “F”Handout “F”

The Metrosafe radio system has ten talk The Metrosafe radio system has ten talk groups for large scale events such as groups for large scale events such as derby and Thunder over Louisvillederby and Thunder over Louisville

The talk groups are located in Zone CThe talk groups are located in Zone CMetroSafe will coordinate use of event MetroSafe will coordinate use of event

channelschannelsFire Departments should request use of Fire Departments should request use of

these channels in advance thru MetroSafethese channels in advance thru MetroSafe If justified MetroSafe may assign a If justified MetroSafe may assign a

dispatcher to monitor the channelsdispatcher to monitor the channels

MotoBridgeMotoBridgeHandout “O”Handout “O”

The MotoBridge is a radio resource that can The MotoBridge is a radio resource that can connect different radio systems together for use connect different radio systems together for use major incidents such as outside county major incidents such as outside county departments (Bullitt, Oldham, etc.)departments (Bullitt, Oldham, etc.)

The MetroSafe system can only be used to link The MetroSafe system can only be used to link to a different system if the responders are going to a different system if the responders are going to be in range of the Metrosafe systemto be in range of the Metrosafe system

The incident commander must request the use The incident commander must request the use of the Motobridgeof the Motobridge

Examples of uses would be Multi Alarm Fires Examples of uses would be Multi Alarm Fires and Large Hazardous Materialsand Large Hazardous Materials

Agencies Accessed by the MotoBridgeAgencies Accessed by the MotoBridge Anchorage PoliceAnchorage Police Jefferson County Sheriffs OfficeJefferson County Sheriffs Office

Jeffersontown PoliceJeffersontown Police Louisville Metro Animal ControlLouisville Metro Animal Control Louisville Metro CorrectionsLouisville Metro Corrections

Shively PoliceShively Police Bullitt County SheriffBullitt County Sheriff Henry County SheriffHenry County Sheriff Kentucky State PoliceKentucky State Police Meade County SheriffMeade County Sheriff Nelson County SheriffNelson County Sheriff

Oldham County SheriffOldham County Sheriff

Shelby County SheriffShelby County Sheriff Spencer County SheriffSpencer County Sheriff Trimble County SheriffTrimble County Sheriff Clark County SheriffClark County Sheriff Floyd County SheriffFloyd County Sheriff Harrison County SheriffHarrison County Sheriff Indiana State Police Indiana State Police Washington County (IN) Washington County (IN)

SheriffSheriff

Anchorage PoliceAnchorage Police Jefferson County Sheriffs OfficeJefferson County Sheriffs Office

Jeffersontown PoliceJeffersontown Police Louisville Metro Animal ControlLouisville Metro Animal Control Louisville Metro CorrectionsLouisville Metro Corrections

Shively PoliceShively Police Bullitt County SheriffBullitt County Sheriff Henry County SheriffHenry County Sheriff Kentucky State PoliceKentucky State Police Meade County SheriffMeade County Sheriff Nelson County SheriffNelson County Sheriff

Oldham County SheriffOldham County Sheriff

Shelby County SheriffShelby County Sheriff Spencer County SheriffSpencer County Sheriff Trimble County SheriffTrimble County Sheriff Clark County SheriffClark County Sheriff Floyd County SheriffFloyd County Sheriff Harrison County SheriffHarrison County Sheriff Indiana State Police Indiana State Police Washington County (IN) Washington County (IN)

SheriffSheriff

FleetMapGeneral:A Fleetmap is the layout of talkgroups or channels for a given radio. The following tables illustrate the Fleetmap for both Urban and Suburban fire radios. Please note the following:1. Zone “G” is enabled only in command radios (chief officers).2. Channel positions 1 and 16 are the same regardless of which zone the radio is using. This is for emergencies (Mayday) and other methods of calling for help are unsuccessful (such as PASS devices, calling for help on the assigned talkgroup).3. Channel positions 1-4 are the fire department’s primary operating talkgroups.4. Channel position 5 is the “knock-out” talkgroup for a given department. 5. Channel position 11 in Zone A is the given fire department’s tactical (TAC) talkgroup.6. PS 1 is Public Service (public works, etc).

Fleet MappingSuburban Command

Channel Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone D Zone E Zone F Zone G

1 FIRE 5 FIRE 5 FIRE 5 FIRE 5 FIRE 5 FIRE 5 FIRE 5

2 FIRE 6 FD TAC 1 EVENT 1 8CALL90 LFD TAC FD TAC 37 FD CMD

3 FIRE 7 FD TAC 2 EVENT 2 8CALL90D FD TAC 11 FD TAC 40 ALL CMD

4 FIRE 8 MED 1 EVENT 3 8TAC91 FD TAC 12 FD TAC 50 ARSON 1

5 JCF PAGE MED 2 EVENT 4 8TAC91D FD TAC 16 FD TAC 55 POLICE 1

6 FIRE 1 MED 3 EVENT 5 8TAC92 FD TAC 18 FD TAC 71 POLICE 2

7 FIRE 2 MED 4 EVENT 6 8TAC92D FD TAC 20 FD TAC 77 POLICE 3


9 FIRE 4 MED 6 EVENT 8 8TAC93D FD TAC 26 FD TAC 90 HOSP CP

10 LFD ALERT HOSP 1 EVENT 9 8TAC94 FD TAC 30 FD TAC 99 PS 1

11 FD TAC ## HOSP 2 EVENT 10 8TAC94D FD TAC 33 FD TAC 99 PS 1

12 MUTAID 1 MUTAID 1 MUTAID 1 MUTAID 1 MUTAID 1 MUTAID 1 MUTAID 1



15 Simplex Simplex Simplex Simplex Simplex Simplex Simplex


Fleet Mapping Urban Command

Channel Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone D Zone E Zone F Zone G


2 FIRE 2 FD TAC 1 EVENT 1 8CALL90 LFD TAC FD TAC 37 FD CMD

3 FIRE 3 FD TAC 2 EVENT 2 8CALL90D FD TAC 11 FD TAC 40 ALL CMD

4 FIRE 4 MED 1 EVENT 3 8TAC91 FD TAC 12 FD TAC 50 ARSON 1

5 LFD ALERT MED 2 EVENT 4 8TAC91D FD TAC 16 FD TAC 55 POLICE 1


7 FIRE 6 MED 4 EVENT 6 8TAC92D FD TAC 20 FD TAC 77 POLICE 3


9 FIRE 8 MED 6 EVENT 8 8TAC93D FD TAC 26 FD TAC 90 HOSP CP

10 JCF PAGE HOSP 1 EVENT 9 8TAC94 FD TAC 30 FD TAC 99 PS 1

11 LFD TAC HOSP 2 EVENT 10 8TAC94D FD TAC 33 FD TAC 99 PS 1




15 Simplex Simplex Simplex Simplex Simplex Simplex Simplex


Fleet MappingSuburban Firefighter

Channel Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone D Zone E Zone F

1 FIRE 5 FIRE 5 FIRE 5 FIRE 5 FIRE 5 FIRE 5

2 FIRE 6 FD TAC 1 EVENT 1 8CALL90 LFD TAC FD TAC 37

3 FIRE 7 FD TAC 2 EVENT 2 8CALL90D FD TAC 11 FD TAC 40

4 FIRE 8 MED 1 EVENT 3 8TAC91 FD TAC 12 FD TAC 50

5 JCF PAGE MED 2 EVENT 4 8TAC91D FD TAC 16 FD TAC 55


7 FIRE 2 MED 4 EVENT 6 8TAC92D FD TAC 20 FD TAC 77



10 LFD ALERT HOSP 1 EVENT 9 8TAC94 FD TAC 30 FD TAC 99

11 FD TAC ## HOSP 2 EVENT 10 8TAC94D FD TAC 33 FD TAC 99

12 MUTAID 1 MUTAID 1 MUTAID 1 MUTAID 1 MUTAID 1 MUTAID 1



15 Simplex Simplex Simplex Simplex Simplex Simplex

16 FIRE 5 FIRE 5 FIRE 5 FIRE 5 FIRE 5 FIRE

Fleet MappingUrban Firefighter

Channel Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone D Zone E Zone F


2 FIRE 2 FD TAC 1 EVENT 1 8CALL90 LFD TAC FD TAC 37

3 FIRE 3 FD TAC 2 EVENT 2 8CALL90D FD TAC 11 FD TAC 40


5 LFD ALERT MED 2 EVENT 4 8TAC91D FD TAC 16 FD TAC 55



8 FIRE A MED 5 EVENT 7 8TAC93 FD TAC 22 FD TAC 80


10 JCF PAGE HOSP 1 EVENT 9 8TAC94 FD TAC 30 FD TAC 99

11 LFD TAC HOSP 2 EVENT 10 8TAC94D FD TAC 33 FD TAC 99




15 Simplex Simplex Simplex Simplex Simplex Simplex


Description of Talkgroups (Channels): FIRE 1: Talk group assigned for Urban Fire primary operations.

FIRE 2: Talk group assigned for Urban Fire secondary operations.

FIRE 3: Back-up talk group for overflow of calls for service, primarily used for Urban Fire. Available if needed for Suburban Fire.

FIRE 4: Back-up talk group for overflow of calls for service, primarily used for Urban Fire. Available if needed for Suburban Fire.

FIRE 5: Talk group assigned for Suburban Fire low priority incidents and administrative communications.

FIRE 6: Talk group assigned for Suburban Fire medium and high priority incidents communications.

FIRE 7: Back-up talk group for overflow of calls for service, primarily used for Suburban Fire. Available if needed for Urban Fire.

FIRE 8: Back-up talk group for overflow of calls for service, primarily used for Suburban Fire. Available if needed for Urban Fire.

LFD ALERT: Will be used for monitoring fire dispatch audio from the Fire Station Alerting system. This talk group is receive only.

JCF PAGE:Will be used for monitoring page tones from the JCFD paging system. This talk group is receive only.

MUTAID 1: Talk group designated for use between different public safety disciplines.

MUTAID 2: Talk group designated for use between different public safety disciplines.

MUTAID 3: Talk group designated for use between public service command and public safety command.

SIMPLEX: Direct unit to unit radio communications, not utilizing a repeater. This channel is NOT monitored by MetroSafe.

MED 1: The primary talk group for LMEMS for units operating in Division 1.



MED 4: Back-up talk group for LMEMS units and will be staffed based on call volume predicted in the event such as a storm etc.



HOSP 1: Talk group for LMEMS units to have direct contact with hospital personnel at the following facilities; Audubon, Clark Memorial, Floyd County Memorial, Jewish, Jewish South, Norton Downtown, Southwest, St Mary’s and University.

HOSP 2: Talk group for LMEMS units to have direct contact with hospital personnel at the following facilities; Baptist East, Baptist Northeast, Jewish East, Jewish Northeast, Jewish Shelbyville, Kosair, Norton Brownsboro, Suburban and Veterans.

HOSP CP: Talk group for hospitals to establish a command post at hospital and for operations of a large scale incident.

EVENT 1-10: These talk groups are available for managing large scale events such as Derby and Thunder over Louisville. Use of the event talk groups shall be planned in advance and assigned by MetroSafe. MetroSafe will determine if the event will require a dispatcher to monitor and/or track the activities of the event.

FD TAC 1: Talk group not assigned to any particular department. Talk group shall be used for incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest an operations talk group. This talk group will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 2: Talk group not assigned to any particular department. Talk group shall be used for incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest an operations talk group. This talk group will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

LFD TAC: Talk group assigned to Louisville, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 11:Talk group assigned to Highview, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 12: Talk group assigned to Harrods Creek, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 16: Talk group assigned to Lyndon, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 18: Talk group assigned to Worthington, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 20: Talk group assign to Anchorage, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 22: Talk group assigned to Pleasure Ridge Park, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 26: Talk group assigned to St. Matthews, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 30: Talk group assigned to Dixie Suburban, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 33: Talk group assigned to Jeffersontown, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 37: Talk group assigned to Buechel, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 40: Talk group assigned to Lake Dreamland, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher

FD TAC 50: Talk group assigned to Camp Taylor, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 55: Talk group assigned to McMahan, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 71: Talk group assigned to Fern Creek, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 77: Talk group assigned to Eastwood, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 80: Talk group assigned to Okolona, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FDTAC 90: Talk group assigned to Fairdale, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD TAC 99: Talk group assigned to Middletown, is used for short term incidents with excessive radio traffic that may congest the operations talk group and will not be monitored by a dispatcher.

FD CMD: Talk group for fire command units.

ALL CMD: Talk group for interagency command units.

ARSON 1: Primary operations talk group for arson investigators.

ARSPVT: Talk group assigned for arson units to communicate among each other.

POLICE 1: Primary operations talk group for Division 6 and Division 7.




PS 1: This is the primary talk group for public service and is shared between all public service units. MetroSafe will utilize this talk group in the future to contact public service units with calls for service.

Radio Daily ChecksRadio Daily Checks Ensure each position has a portable radio assigned to Ensure each position has a portable radio assigned to

them them Check for physical damage to the radio Check for physical damage to the radio Change battery on radio once a month Change battery on radio once a month Check all knobs to ensure proper operationCheck all knobs to ensure proper operation

On VHF - check battery charge by depressing the PTT, if On VHF - check battery charge by depressing the PTT, if red red light on portable is solid the battery is fully charged light on portable is solid the battery is fully charged

On 800's - check battery gauge for level of charge on the On 800's - check battery gauge for level of charge on the battery battery

On 800's - check signal strength indicator for reception On 800's - check signal strength indicator for reception If radio is dirty, clean with a damp cloth If radio is dirty, clean with a damp cloth

Radio OperationsRadio Operations Face to face communication is always the preferred method Face to face communication is always the preferred method Know Emergency Traffic procedures Know Emergency Traffic procedures Know May Day procedures Know May Day procedures Hold radio 1" to 2" from face Hold radio 1" to 2" from face Speak clearly and slowly Speak clearly and slowly On 800's - Speaking loudly can distort the digital audio On 800's - Speaking loudly can distort the digital audio All radio traffic should be concise All radio traffic should be concise AND BRIEF!! AND BRIEF!! (Time out timers (Time out timers

set for 30 seconds.)set for 30 seconds.) Each member must carry a radio into the hazard zoneEach member must carry a radio into the hazard zone Know what you are going to say before you say it Know what you are going to say before you say it Call signs for members that are away from their crew Call signs for members that are away from their crew On 800's - proper keying of PTT, 1-2 second delay until talk-permit-On 800's - proper keying of PTT, 1-2 second delay until talk-permit-

tone is heard tone is heard Radios should be protected from prolonged exposure to water Radios should be protected from prolonged exposure to water Protect portables from heat by using turnout coat pocket Protect portables from heat by using turnout coat pocket Use speaker mics when possible to minimize damage to radios Use speaker mics when possible to minimize damage to radios Be professional Be professional

MaintenanceMaintenance

Security of our radios is critical Security of our radios is critical Report stolen radio immediately Report stolen radio immediately Missing radios should be reported if not Missing radios should be reported if not

found quickly found quickly Broken radios should be reported Broken radios should be reported

64

And, Before I Forget!And, Before I Forget!

ALL our radios ALL our radios employ close talk employ close talk microphones to microphones to reduce unwanted reduce unwanted background noise. background noise. This means, if you This means, if you don’t hold the radio don’t hold the radio or microphone close or microphone close to your mouth no one to your mouth no one will hear you! ?????will hear you! ?????

Approved Radio LanguageApproved Radio LanguageHandout “A”Handout “A”

RespondingResponding

On SceneOn Scene

In QuartersIn Quarters

On Pager On Pager

Emergency/Non Emergency ResponseEmergency/Non Emergency Response

On the AirOn the Air

In Service/Out of ServiceIn Service/Out of Service

Arson Investigator Call-OutArson Investigator Call-OutHandout “B”Handout “B”

Metro Safe notified of Arson Unit RequestMetro Safe notified of Arson Unit Request

Investigator will advise Metro Safe of ETAInvestigator will advise Metro Safe of ETA

Chief Officer Radios programmed with Chief Officer Radios programmed with channels for direct communication if channels for direct communication if necessarynecessary

Apparatus to remain on scene until Arson Apparatus to remain on scene until Arson arrivalarrival

Bomb Alarm OperationsBomb Alarm OperationsHandout “C”Handout “C”

No Fire dispatch until Police requestNo Fire dispatch until Police request

Respond to Police designated staging Respond to Police designated staging areaarea

Fire units respond non emergencyFire units respond non emergency

Upon Arrival (Follow Procedure)Upon Arrival (Follow Procedure)

Do not use radios, cell phones or Do not use radios, cell phones or Blackberries unless approved by IC (could Blackberries unless approved by IC (could initiate an explosion).initiate an explosion).

Fire Service Support at Police Fire Service Support at Police Activity IncidentsActivity Incidents

Handout “I”Handout “I”

Procedure when law enforcement Procedure when law enforcement requests fire service supportrequests fire service support

Emergency vs Non – EmergencyEmergency vs Non – Emergency

Scene CommunicationsScene Communications

Action upon arrivalAction upon arrival

InteroperabilityInteroperabilityHandout “M”Handout “M”

All agencies in Metro Louisville will have All agencies in Metro Louisville will have direct radio communications with each direct radio communications with each otherotherAgencies from Metro Louisville will be able Agencies from Metro Louisville will be able to communicate with other specific State to communicate with other specific State agenciesagenciesAgencies from Metro Louisville will be able Agencies from Metro Louisville will be able to communicate with other specific Federal to communicate with other specific Federal AgenciesAgencies

Inter-county Mutual Aid Inter-county Mutual Aid CommunicationsCommunications

Handout “M”Handout “M”

MotoBridgeMotoBridgeHandout “O”Handout “O”

Conducted by MetroSafe from radio Conducted by MetroSafe from radio consoleconsole

Connects different radio systems togetherConnects different radio systems together

Can provide interoperability with Can provide interoperability with surrounding agencies on different radio surrounding agencies on different radio systemssystems

Communications to Potentially Communications to Potentially Hostile ScenesHostile Scenes

Handout “Q”Handout “Q”Description of a Potential Hostile SceneDescription of a Potential Hostile Scene

Metro Safe actions for Potential Hostile Metro Safe actions for Potential Hostile SceneScene

Fire Service action if fire units stage before Fire Service action if fire units stage before arrivalarrival

Action to be taken if scene becomes Action to be taken if scene becomes HostileHostile

Requests for Public InformationRequests for Public InformationHandout “T”Handout “T”

Requests for Information from MediaRequests for Information from Media

– General natureGeneral nature– Terminated incidentTerminated incident– On – Going incidentOn – Going incident

Requests for Public InformationRequests for Public Informationfor Level 3 Hazmatfor Level 3 Hazmat

Handout “T”Handout “T”Media StagingMedia Staging

Released Product InformationReleased Product Information

Evacuation AreaEvacuation Area

Use of Dialogic SystemUse of Dialogic System

National Weather Service Radio National Weather Service Radio InformationInformation

Sheltering in PlaceSheltering in Place

Severe Weather ProcedureSevere Weather ProcedureHandout “U”Handout “U”

Severe Weather WatchesSevere Weather Watches

Severe Weather WarningsSevere Weather Warnings

Severe Weather Procedure for unusual Severe Weather Procedure for unusual eventsevents

Tornado WarningsTornado Warnings

Triaging of Calls for ServiceTriaging of Calls for Service

Fire Incident DispatchFire Incident Dispatch

Severe Weather ProcedureSevere Weather ProcedureContinuedContinued

Individual Department Establishing base of Individual Department Establishing base of operationsoperations

Individual Department has not established Individual Department has not established a base of operationsa base of operations

Fires reported directly to fire stationsFires reported directly to fire stations

Emergency Operations Center ActivationEmergency Operations Center Activation

Resumption of Normal Dispatch Resumption of Normal Dispatch ProceduresProcedures

L.G. & E Protocol

Priority 1An energized wire, transformer, or other electrical device connected to or in contact with a structure, vehicle, or other situation which poses an immediate threat to life or property, and/or which may prohibit rescue or suppression activities.Example: Energized wire on an occupied vehicle, energized wire on a structure that is on fire, hot air balloon trapped in energized wires.

L.G. & E Protocol

Priority 2An energized wire, transformer, or other electrical device connected to or in contact with a structure, vehicle, or other situation which poses no immediate threat to life or property, and does not prohibit rescue or suppression activities.Example: Energized wire on the ground next to a structure fire, energized wire laying across the street, energized wire at the scene of an accident but not directly involved in the incident.

L.G. & E Protocol

Priority 3An energized or non-energized wire, transformer, or other electrical device that is not in contact with any structure or occupied vehicle, and is otherwise not an immediate dangerous situation. Example: Energized or unknown wire hanging in a tree, energized or unknown wire laying in a yard away from a structure.**The Fire Incident Commander should advise Metro Safe if the Fire Department is standing by on the incident scene and waiting for a response by Louisville Gas and Electric or not.

Suburban FireSuburban Fire

Special Operations Teams Dispatch Special Operations Teams Dispatch ProceduresProcedures

Handout “V”Handout “V”

Special Operations can consist of Special Operations can consist of any Emergency Response Teamany Emergency Response TeamProcedure:Procedure:1.1. Each Special Operations Team shall provide the MetroSafe with a dispatch matrix that shall be Each Special Operations Team shall provide the MetroSafe with a dispatch matrix that shall be common in design and layout across all teams. This matrix will provide the information to be utilized in CAD as common in design and layout across all teams. This matrix will provide the information to be utilized in CAD as well as a backup manual system.well as a backup manual system.2. 2. A Special Teams Agency will be created in CAD; all unit numbers specific to the special teams will A Special Teams Agency will be created in CAD; all unit numbers specific to the special teams will be created in this agency for the purpose of deployment and tracking. be created in this agency for the purpose of deployment and tracking. 3. 3. Special Teams Command units will also ask for an Incident Number for their individual fire district if Special Teams Command units will also ask for an Incident Number for their individual fire district if they are not part of the initial call out. Units responding will need to use dual unit identifiers until arrival, after they are not part of the initial call out. Units responding will need to use dual unit identifiers until arrival, after which they should utilize only the Special Team unit identifier. This will allow CAD to track response times for their which they should utilize only the Special Team unit identifier. This will allow CAD to track response times for their home department.home department.4.4. The addendums that follow are specific to each team and shall provide a dispatch flow chart, The addendums that follow are specific to each team and shall provide a dispatch flow chart, notification log and personnel tracking log.notification log and personnel tracking log.5. 5. All Special Operations Teams shall be dispatched utilizing the Fire Fighter All Call Tone. (see All Special Operations Teams shall be dispatched utilizing the Fire Fighter All Call Tone. (see attached procedures)attached procedures)6. 6. An incident leading to a Special Response Team call-out shall be assigned a dedicated Operations An incident leading to a Special Response Team call-out shall be assigned a dedicated Operations Channel. So as not to interfere with on-going activities, Special Response Team members shall use the Mutual Channel. So as not to interfere with on-going activities, Special Response Team members shall use the Mutual Aid Channel to call responding and on scene. Once the Special Team member has arrived on scene, he or she Aid Channel to call responding and on scene. Once the Special Team member has arrived on scene, he or she shall switch his or her radio to the assigned Operations channel.shall switch his or her radio to the assigned Operations channel.7. 7. When a Special Response Team incident occurs, the Mutual Aid Channel and F-TAC-1 shall be When a Special Response Team incident occurs, the Mutual Aid Channel and F-TAC-1 shall be reserved for use at the incident and can be used with the Incident Communications Plan (ICS Form 205).reserved for use at the incident and can be used with the Incident Communications Plan (ICS Form 205).8. 8. Any information to be relayed to the responding Special Team members who have not arrived will be Any information to be relayed to the responding Special Team members who have not arrived will be done on the Mutual Aid Channel. done on the Mutual Aid Channel. 9. 9. Any request for additional resources or contact with MetroSafe will be made on the Operations Any request for additional resources or contact with MetroSafe will be made on the Operations Channel dedicated to the incident or as otherwise determined by the Incident Communications Plan. Channel dedicated to the incident or as otherwise determined by the Incident Communications Plan.

Suburban Fire Four Digit Numbering Suburban Fire Four Digit Numbering SystemSystem

Handout “W”Handout “W”THE FIRST TWO DIGITS REPRESENT THE NAME OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT:THE FIRST TWO DIGITS REPRESENT THE NAME OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT:

AnchorageAnchorage 2020BuechelBuechel 3737Camp TaylorCamp Taylor 5555Dixie SuburbanDixie Suburban 3030Eastwood Eastwood 7777FairdaleFairdale 9090Fern CreekFern Creek 7171Harrods CreekHarrods Creek 1212HighviewHighview 1111JeffersontownJeffersontown 3333Lake DreamlandLake Dreamland 4040LyndonLyndon 1616McMahanMcMahan 5555MiddletownMiddletown 9999OkolonaOkolona 8080Pleasure Ridge ParkPleasure Ridge Park 2222St. MatthewsSt. Matthews 2626WorthingtonWorthington 1818Trench RescueTrench Rescue 6464Haz Mat TeamHaz Mat Team 6666Water RescueWater Rescue 6868

Suburban Fire Four Digit Suburban Fire Four Digit Numbering SystemNumbering System

THIRD DIGIT – TYPE OF APPARATUS THIRD DIGIT – TYPE OF APPARATUS FOURTH DIGIT – APPARATUS NUMBERFOURTH DIGIT – APPARATUS NUMBER0 - Chief Officer 01 - Always Fire Chief 0 - Chief Officer 01 - Always Fire Chief 1 - Misc. Personnel/Officers 09 - On Duty I. C.1 - Misc. Personnel/Officers 09 - On Duty I. C.2 - Engine Company2 - Engine Company3 - Engine Company3 - Engine Company4 - Quad Combinations4 - Quad Combinations5 - Truck Company: Aerial, Snorkel, Elevating Platform5 - Truck Company: Aerial, Snorkel, Elevating Platform Ladder Tower, Tele-Squrt, ETC.Ladder Tower, Tele-Squrt, ETC.6 - Water Tanker6 - Water Tanker7 - Brush Fire Unit7 - Brush Fire Unit8 - Heavy or Light Squad, Ambulance8 - Heavy or Light Squad, Ambulance9 - Service, Utility or Special Purpose Vehicle9 - Service, Utility or Special Purpose Vehicle

EXAMPLE: Unit 1632: 16 – Lyndon, 3 – Engine Company, 2 – Unit number two.EXAMPLE: Unit 1632: 16 – Lyndon, 3 – Engine Company, 2 – Unit number two. Unit 5047: 50 – Camp Taylor, 4 – Quad, 7 – Unit numbers seven.Unit 5047: 50 – Camp Taylor, 4 – Quad, 7 – Unit numbers seven.Note: Telesqurts shall be classified as Truck Companies (Third Digit 5)Note: Telesqurts shall be classified as Truck Companies (Third Digit 5) Articulating Squrts shall be classified as Engine Companies (Third Digit 3)Articulating Squrts shall be classified as Engine Companies (Third Digit 3)

General Fire Radio General Fire Radio Operations PolicyOperations Policy

Handout “X”Handout “X”

Fire Radio OperationsFire Radio OperationsDEFINITIONS:DEFINITIONS:Refer to the Glossary section of this handbook. The following terms are used extensively in the General Radio Operations section:Refer to the Glossary section of this handbook. The following terms are used extensively in the General Radio Operations section:

Channel/Talkgroup Channel/Talkgroup Dispatch ChannelDispatch ChannelInteroperability Interoperability Mutual Aid ChannelMutual Aid ChannelOperations ChannelOperations ChannelSOA ChannelSOA ChannelTactical ChannelTactical ChannelZoneZone

CHANNELS/TALKGROUPS:CHANNELS/TALKGROUPS:The following Channels shall be available to all fire service radio users:The following Channels shall be available to all fire service radio users:

DescriptionDescription Radio Display NameRadio Display Name Remarks:Remarks:Fire Operations OneFire Operations One FIRE 1FIRE 1 Primary User: LFRPrimary User: LFRFire Operations TwoFire Operations Two FIRE 2FIRE 2 Primary User: LFRPrimary User: LFR

Fire Operations ThreeFire Operations Three FIRE 3FIRE 3 Primary User: LFRPrimary User: LFR Fire Operations FourFire Operations Four FIRE 4FIRE 4 Used for LFR & Suburban Fire joint responsesUsed for LFR & Suburban Fire joint responses Fire Operations FiveFire Operations Five FIRE 5FIRE 5 Primary User: Suburban FirePrimary User: Suburban Fire

Fire Operations SixFire Operations Six FIRE 6FIRE 6 Primary User: Suburban FirePrimary User: Suburban FireFire Operations SevenFire Operations Seven FIRE 7FIRE 7 Primary User: Suburban FirePrimary User: Suburban FireFire Operations EightFire Operations Eight FIRE 8FIRE 8 Primary User: Suburban FirePrimary User: Suburban FireSuburban DispatchSuburban Dispatch JCF PAGEJCF PAGE Suburban Dispatch ChannelSuburban Dispatch ChannelLFD DispatchLFD Dispatch LFD ALERT LFD ALERT Louisville Fire Dispatch ChannelLouisville Fire Dispatch ChannelFire Tactical OneFire Tactical One F-TAC-1 F-TAC-1 Primary User: All Fire (common use)Primary User: All Fire (common use)Fire Tactical TwoFire Tactical Two F-TAC-2 F-TAC-2 Primary User: All Fire (common use)Primary User: All Fire (common use)Mutual AidMutual Aid MUTAID1 MUTAID1 Primary User: All emergency respondersPrimary User: All emergency respondersSuburban CommandSuburban Command FD CMDFD CMD Primary User: All Fire Command OfficersPrimary User: All Fire Command OfficersDepartment TacticalDepartment Tactical FTAC-XXFTAC-XX Primary User: Individual department where XX corresponds to the two numbers Primary User: Individual department where XX corresponds to the two numbers

identifying the department. A department tactical channel is identifying the department. A department tactical channel is exclusive to one exclusive to one department only.department only.

Tips for Being a Better Radio Tips for Being a Better Radio UserUser

Handout “Y”Handout “Y”

Changes to Emphasize in Changes to Emphasize in Standard Operating ProceduresStandard Operating Procedures

Handout “AA”Handout “AA”

1 communications training introduction to: 800 mhz radio

Documents

radio users

radio channel frequency

trunking radio

direct radio

radio function

conventional radio

radio wave travelall

particular channel