policy and procedure - heartland fire & rescue outs all swat paramedic deployments shall be...
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POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: TABLE OF CONTENTS
NUMBER: 500
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 1 of 1
500.00 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
501.00 Tactical Paramedic Program
502.00 Firefighter Retrieval – Engine/Truck Status
503.00 Battalion Back‐Up Coverage
504.00 Single Resource Assignments
505.00 Downgrading to Basic Life Support Transport
506.00 Minimum Standard Wildland Equipment
507.00 Patient’s Personal Belongings
508.00 Modification of Medical Aid Responses
509.00 After Action Review Procedure
510.00 Accountability System Equipment
511.00 Emergency Vehicle Operation
512.00 PPE Care, Maintenance and Response Attire
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: TACTICAL PARAMEDIC PROGRAM
NUMBER: 501.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 1 of 4
PURPOSE
It is the purpose of the Tactical Paramedic Program is to prevent and reduce incidents of injury and death to police, fire, and civilian victims of criminal violence, by administering immediate life support measures and safe evacuation during tactical operations. POLICY The department shall utilize this procedure to determine eligibility, training, equipment, call out process and command and control for Tactical Paramedics.
APPLICABILITY
Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon Fire Department.
DEFINITIONS
SWAT Tactical Paramedic – A Firefighter/Paramedic who has been selected to participate in, and
successfully completed and maintained the qualifications and training outlined in this procedure.
Call Out – When a SWAT Tactical Paramedic is summonsed for a SWAT mission.
AUTHORITY
Fire Chief
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: TACTICAL PARAMEDIC PROGRAM
NUMBER: 501.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 2 of 4
PROCEDURE
Tactical Paramedics shall work in conjunction with the El Cajon Police Department SWAT team. They will respond to SWAT emergencies consisting of, high risk warrants and other missions as requested by the SWAT Commander. Tactical Paramedics will be specially trained in SWAT tactics and in providing emergency Paramedical care during SWAT actions. The Paramedics shall operate within the inner perimeter of the operation and perform as an intricate component of the team. Paramedics should not be specifically involved with any police action. Tactical Paramedics will be trained in SWAT tactics to enable them to respond appropriately and predictably in a tactical environment. Tactical Paramedics are permitted to carry an authorized firearm while deployed at a SWAT mission. The firearm may be utilized in any self‐defense situation while activated as part of SWAT. When not in use, the firearm shall remain stored in the SWAT Command Vehicle. At no time shall a firearm be brought into a City building unless it is done so during an organized training session or an activation involving a City building. ELIGIBILITY All team members shall meet the following minimum requirements to be considered for the SWAT program.
Application shall be voluntary.
Regular full time status.
Satisfactory or above ratings in all categories on last Performance review.
Pass annual physical fitness test.
Three year active commitment to the SWAT team.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: TACTICAL PARAMEDIC PROGRAM
NUMBER: 501.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 3 of 4
TRAINING Tactical Paramedics are required to successfully complete the 832 P.C. P.O.S.T. Certification Class and must quarterly qualify with their firearm in accordance to El Cajon Police specifications. Tactical Paramedics must successfully complete a Police SWAT Academy. The academy specifications will be designated by the El Cajon Police SWAT Commander. Tactical Paramedics must fulfill the minimum number of continued training hours as determined by the SWAT Commander to maintain active status in the SWAT Paramedic program. CALL OUTS
All SWAT Paramedic deployments shall be pre‐authorized by the Deputy Fire Chief of Operations Chief or Duty Battalion Chief.
Team members will be activated by SWAT pager and/or telephone. The Operations Chief or the Duty Chief shall be notified by the SWAT Commander of the impending activation in advance whenever possible for back‐staffing purposes.
All back‐filling options are to be exercised prior actual activation.
Any potential staffing reductions resulting from a SWAT Tactical Paramedic request shall be pre‐authorize by the Fire Chief or Operations Chief.
Activated SWAT members will report to the location given upon official activation notification.
At no time shall any Paramedic that has not been properly trained be allowed to function in the role of a SWAT Paramedic.
Qualified SWAT Paramedics will be distributed between the three Divisions.
Off‐duty SWAT Paramedics will be called first for activation. If a member is on duty at the time of activation, overtime personnel shall be called for relief prior to the Tactical Paramedic relinquishing his/her staffed position whenever possible to minimize effects on daily staffing levels. Management maintains full authority to deny an SWAT Tactical Paramedic request based upon the operational needs of the Fire Department at that time.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: TACTICAL PARAMEDIC PROGRAM
NUMBER: 501.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 4 of 4
EQUIPMENT
All required Tactical Paramedic equipment shall be provided by the El Cajon Police Department. It shall be the responsibility of the SWAT Paramedics to ensure that all Paramedical equipment is inventoried and replaced based upon use and expiration dates. COMMAND AND CONTROL
Upon SWAT activation Tactical Paramedics shall be under the command of the SWAT Commanding Officer. Paramedical protocol for the treatment of persons in a tactical environment shall be in compliance with the San Diego County Division of Emergency Paramedical Services.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: FIREFIGHTER RETRIEVAL – ENGINE/TRUCK
STATUS
NUMBER: 502.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 1 of 3
PURPOSE
To identify a process for retrieval of Fire Personnel when utilized to accompany ambulances to a
hospital.
APPLICABILITY
Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon, City of La Mesa, City of Lemon Grove.
DEFINITIONS
This guideline is in reference to the retrieval of Fire Personnel who ride as a third and/or fourth person
on an ambulance for assistance with critical patient care from an emergency scene to a receiving
hospital.
This guideline also identifies Engine/Truck status while staffing is reduced on that unit during the
transport/retrieval process.
NOTE
Due to the difference in medical transport systems among the Cities of El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lemon
Grove, this Guideline outlines one procedure for El Cajon and one procedure for both La Mesa and
Lemon Grove.
AUTHORITY
Fire Chief
PROCEDURE El Cajon For medical incidents requiring a Firefighter to assist with patient transport to Grossmont or Alvarado Hospitals:
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: FIREFIGHTER RETRIEVAL – ENGINE/TRUCK
STATUS
NUMBER: 502.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 2 of 3
The Engine/Truck shall be placed Out of Service (OOS) and the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified of unit’s status. The Engine/Truck shall follow and retrieve the firefighter from the receiving hospital. Once fully staffed, the Engine/Truck shall go to Available on Radio (AOR) from that location. Once placed back into service, the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified. Medical incidents requiring a Firefighter to assist with patient transport to a hospital other than Grossmont or Alvarado Hospitals: The Engine/Truck shall be placed Out Of Service (OOS) and the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified of unit status and for firefighter retrieval arrangement. The Engine/Truck Company Officer shall monitor the dispatch channel for responses in their area. It shall be at the discretion of that unit’s Company Officer to add that Unit to a call if they feel they can positively impacts the incident/patient outcome. Once fully staffed, that unit shall be place back into service and the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified. La Mesa and Lemon Grove Medical incidents requiring firefighter(s) to assist with patient transport to Grossmont, Alvarado or Paradise Valley Hospitals (PVH Lemon Grove Engines only): The Engine/Truck shall be placed OOS and the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified of the unit’s status. The Engine/Truck shall follow and retrieve the firefighter from the receiving hospital. Once fully staffed, the Engine/Truck shall go AOR from that location. Once placed back into service, the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified. Medical incidents requiring firefighter(s) to assist with patient transport to a hospital other than Grossmont, Alvarado or Paradise Valley Hospitals: Any time an Engine/Truck staffing is reduced to two personnel, the apparatus shall be placed OOS and the Duty Battalion shall be notified. The Company Officer will ensure arrangements are made through AMR Dispatch for a taxi to retrieve the firefighter. If any delay of firefighter retrieval is anticipated, the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified immediately for possible firefighter retrieval arrangements. The Company Officer shall monitor the Dispatch channel for responses in their area. It shall be at the discretion of that Company Officer to add that Unit to the call if they feel they can positively impacts
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: FIREFIGHTER RETRIEVAL – ENGINE/TRUCK
STATUS
NUMBER: 502.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 3 of 3
the incident/patient outcome. Once fully staffed, that unit shall be placed back into service and the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: BATTALION BACK‐UP COVERAGE
NUMBER: 503.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 1 of 2
PURPOSE
To provide adequate, timely Back‐up Chief Officer Coverage for emergency incident management. POLICY
Personnel assigned to the Back‐up Chief Officer responsibility shall adhere to the procedure for
response availability and capability requirements.
APPLICABILITY
Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon Fire Department, City of La Mesa Fire Department and City of
Lemon Grove Fire Department.
DEFINITIONS
Jurisdictional Boundary – The boundaries of the combined cities of El Cajon, La Mesa and Lemon
Grove.
Travel time – The time that it takes to travel from one point to another on city streets and highways
following the code three driving policy.
Emergency Response Capable vehicle – a vehicle that is capable of responding lights and siren in
compliance with the California Vehicle Code.
AUTHORITY
Fire Chief
PROCEDURE
The Back‐up Chief Officer responsibility is assigned to personnel on a rotating basis. An assignment
calendar shall be developed and distributed to all appropriate parties.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: BATTALION BACK‐UP COVERAGE
NUMBER: 503.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 2 of 2
Responsibilities of the Back‐up Chief Officer:
Remain positioned in a ready to respond status that allows for a travel time of 20 minutes or
less to the jurisdictional boundary.
Be available to respond to communications from the Communications Center through the use
of paging, radios and phones.
To place himself/herself in an available status when incidents within the jurisdiction are
anticipated to be more than 20 minutes in duration with the shift battalion chief committed.
Be available to respond in an emergency response capable vehicle at all times.
Refrain from any activities that would inhibit or delay a response throughout the duty rotation
cycle (i.e.: consuming alcohol, staying close to the vehicle).
Operate in accordance to the Heartland Fire & Rescue Take Home Vehicle Policy 104.00.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: SINGLE RESOURCE ASSIGNMENTS
NUMBER: 504.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 1 of 2
PURPOSE
To establish a fair and comprehensive method of tracking and distributing Single Resource Assignments
that maintains the operational effectiveness of the agency.
APPLICABILITY
Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon Fire Department, City of La Mesa Fire Department, and the
City of Lemon Grove Fire Department.
DEFINITIONS
LEMT – Line Emergency Medical Technician
LEMTP – Line Emergency Medical Technician Paramedic – LEMTP must be agency supported through
acquisition of required LEMPT equipment.
Qualified – Documented accomplishment of minimum qualifications based upon FireScope and
Heartland Fire & Rescue criteria.
ROSS – The Resource Ordering and Status System will be updated with qualified personnel annually
during the season of low fire activity.
AUTHORITY
Fire Chief
PROCEDURE
Assignments are to be offered based upon the established agency rotation, managed by
Heartland Communications. El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lemon Grove are to be recognized as
individual agencies on the Central Zone Overhead Assignment rotation list until further notice.
Line EMT and EMTP positions will be authorized to fill up to 2 requested positions per agency
rotation per request order.
All other position requests will be filled as a single resource request per agency rotation.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: SINGLE RESOURCE ASSIGNMENTS
NUMBER: 504.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 2 of 2
All assignments filled/offered will count toward a person’s rotation for all qualified positions.
i.e. if a person is qualified in multiple positions, rotation will be based upon single opportunity,
not by each individual qualified position.
Assignments offered will count towards that person’s rotation whether it is accepted, declined,
or unavailable for contact.
Tracking of Accepted, Declined or No Contact will be maintained by the Operations Chief.
Assignments will be offered in the following sequence:
1. To the agency up for rotation based upon the Heartland Communications listed agency
rotation.
2. To those from that agency who are qualified and pre‐listed in ROSS, based upon the established
rotation criteria outlined in this guideline.
The tracking of Single Resource Assignments will be the responsibility of the Operations Chief via an
assignment rotation list of qualified personnel. This rotation will be based upon the last assignment
offered and not based on last assignment filled.
Operations will maintain the tracking of Single Resource Assignments delegated to El Cajon, La Mesa,
and Lemon Grove qualified personnel via spreadsheet and an Assignment Board.
The annual updating of ROSS will be the responsibility of the Operations Chief.
It will be the responsibility of those requesting to be placed into ROSS to provide all documentations of
training necessary to qualify them for the position sought.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: DOWNGRADING TO BASIC LIFE SUPPORT TRANSPORT NUMBER: 505.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 1 of 1
PURPOSE
To establish a common approach to the medical downgrading of transporting units in El Cajon when applicable. While working within this guideline, it will remain the preferred method of operation to transport patients by way of an El Cajon resource if it can be accomplished without jeopardizing patient care. APPLICABILITY
Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon Fire Department.
DEFINITIONS
Medical Downgrading – Lowering responding transport capabilities from Advance Life Support (ALS),
to Basic Life Support (BLS).
AUTHORITY
Fire Chief
REFERENCE
County of San Diego Division of Emergency Medical Services Policy S‐412
PROCEDURE
In an effort to support Operational and training needs of the organization, the following guidelines
have been established for the purpose of downgrading medical aid responses within El Cajon:
When an El Cajon Medic Unit is the initial unit dispatched to an incident, that unit will transport both ALS and BLS level transports from the City of El Cajon jurisdiction.
When a non‐El Cajon Medic Unit is the initially dispatched unit to an El Cajon incident, the Company Officer at scene shall have the discretion of downgrading the transport to a BLS level. This includes El Cajon Medic units that are in an altered response level i.e. Third and Seventh Responder training status.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: MINIMUM STANDARD WILDLAND
EQUIPMENT
NUMBER: 506.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 1 of 3
PURPOSE
To provide a standard for wildland equipment accompaniment to be carried on all Heartland Fire &
Rescue engines.
APPLICABILITY
Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon Fire Department, City of La Mesa Fire Department, and the
City of Lemon Grove Fire Department.
DEFINITIONS
Strike Team Engine – The Engine identified as the primary response apparatus on the Zone Strike
Engine rotation list for each agency.
Engine – All Engines not identified as the agency’s primary Strike Engine.
NH – National Hose (thread)
NPSH – National Pipe Straight Hose (thread)
AUTHORITY
Fire Chief
PROCEDURE
Minimum Wildland Equipment Accompaniment for Heartland Fire & Rescue Strike Team Engines:
HOSE
800’ of 1 ½ “ single jacket WL hose total. A minimum of 3‐hose packs of 200’ each will be pre‐
assembled. “T” to be pre‐attached to the inside bundle of each pack for lateral capabilities
every 200’.
300’ of 1” single jacket WL hose w/ NPSH threads
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: MINIMUM STANDARD WILDLAND
EQUIPMENT
NUMBER: 506.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 2 of 3
HARDWARE
6 – Total 1 ½ FSS Ts (1 ½ “ NH thread and 1” NPSH thread)
3 – WL Hose clamps with Sheaths
6‐ 1” WL nozzles (NPSH)
2‐ 1 ½ “ WL nozzles (at least one w/ interchangeable tips, minimum one of each tips: 3/8”; 1/2”)
TOOLS
1 hand tool per position (can be any combination of the following wildland hand tools: wildland
shovel, McCloud, or Pulaski)
1 ‐ 2 mill/flat bastard files for sharpening tools
ADDITIONAL REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
Approved PPE Per Person
1 VHF Radio per position
3 Boxes MRE
4 Cases H2O
Minimum Wildland accompaniment for all Heartland Fire & Rescue Engines:
HOSE
600’ of 1 ½ “ single jacket WL hose total. A minimum of 3‐hose packs of 200’ each will be pre‐
assembled. “T” to be pre‐attached to the inside bundle of each pack for lateral capabilities
every 200’,
200’ of 1” single jacket WL hose w/ NPSH threads
HARDWARE
4 ‐ Total 1 ½ FSS T’s (1 ½ “ NH thread and 1” NPSH thread)
2 – WL Hose clamps with Sheaths
4‐ 1” WL nozzles (NPSH)
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: MINIMUM STANDARD WILDLAND
EQUIPMENT
NUMBER: 506.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 3 of 3
2‐ 1 ½ “ WL nozzles (at least one w/ interchangeable tips ‐ minimum one of each tips: 3/8”;
1/2”)
TOOLS
2 hand tools (can be any combination of the following wildland hand tools: wildland shovel,
McCloud, or pulaski)
ADDITIONAL REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
Approved PPE Per Person
3 VHF Radios
1 case H20
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: PATIENT’S PERSONAL BELONGINGS
NUMBER: 507.00
DATE: 03/01/2012
Page 1 of 1
PURPOSE
To establish a common approach to accessing the personal belongings of a patient and to protect Heartland Fire & Rescue employees and the City from allegations of wrong doing. APPLICABILITY
Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon Fire Department, City of La Mesa Fire Department and City of
Lemon Grove Fire Department.
DEFINITIONS
Personal Belongings – Purse, Wallet, Backpack, dresser or any other item containing any of the
patient’s personal effects.
AUTHORITY
Fire Chief
PROCEDURE
It is necessary to access a patient’s personal belongings from time to time in order to access vital medical information or ID/ Insurance cards. When accessing a patient’s personal belongings, the following guidelines shall be observed. The same guidelines shall apply to the search of quarters outside the perimeter of the patient’s view:
When appropriate, have the patient obtain the required items him/herself.
Ask the patient if a family member or an entrusted person on scene can obtain the required items or witness the process if performed by Fire personnel.
If law enforcement is present, request that they obtain the items or witness the process if performed by Fire personnel.
If as a last resort, the above options are not viable, Fire personnel must access the personal belongings of a patient it shall be in the presence of another Fire Department member to serve as a witness. It is strongly encouraged that this option be documented in the Patient Care Report and/or the Firehouse Report.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: MODIFICATION OF MEDICAL AID RESPONSES
NUMBER: 508.00
DATE: 12/5/2013
Page 1 of 3
PURPOSE
To establish a common approach to medical aid response standards based on nationally recognized scientifically validated criteria. POLICY
Established criteria for modifying medical aid responses in El Cajon jurisdiction
APPLICABILITY
Heartland Fire & Rescue‐ El Cajon Fire Department, La Mesa fire Department, Lemon Grove Fire
Department.
DEFINITIONS
HCFA ‐ Heartland Communications Facility Authority
MPDS – Medical Priority Dispatch System
ALS – Advanced Life support
BLS – Basic Life Support
EMS ‐ Emergency Medical Service
AUTHORITY
Fire Chief
REFERENCE
N/A
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: MODIFICATION OF MEDICAL AID RESPONSES
NUMBER: 508.00
DATE: 12/5/2013
Page 2 of 3
PROCEDURE
In an effort to support operational needs of the organization and to ensure delivery of the appropriate
level of medical care, the following guidelines have been established regarding medical aid responses
within El Cajon:
All Heartland units will be dispatched as quickly as possible in an effort to respond to requests for service in the quickest possible manner. All EMS responses will initially consist of a minimum of one ALS fire apparatus (engine or truck) and one ALS ambulance.
If HCFA personnel have established the 911 call to be a Level “O”, “A”, or Level “B” response, the Company Officer may elect to modify the response to the call (if the call is within the El Cajon City limits). The Company Officer may seek input from the personnel assigned to the medic unit prior to making the response modification.
If the Company Officer decides to modify a Level “A” response, the medic unit will respond no code to the incident and the ALS fire apparatus (engine or truck) will cancel. It is important to note that the medic unit personnel can always re ‐ request that the appropriate ALS fire apparatus (engine or truck) respond for assistance.
If the Company Officer decides to modify a Level “B” response, an ALS fire apparatus (engine or truck) and an ALS ambulance will respond. The closest unit in proximity to the call will respond code 3 and the more distant unit will respond no code. In the case where both units are responding from the same location, the medic unit will respond code 3 and the engine/truck will respond code 2.
Fire personnel may not downgrade an HCFA established Level “B” call to a Level “A” call.
911 calls for medical assistance that have not been screened by HCFA personnel using MPDS shall not be modified by field personnel. Sometimes the screening process can create a delay in assigning a call level. Crews are not to delay their response while waiting for the response level to be assigned.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: MODIFICATION OF MEDICAL AID RESPONSES
NUMBER: 508.00
DATE: 12/5/2013
Page 3 of 3
Personnel shall not modify any “FALL” call where the age of the patient is reported to be 65
years of age or greater. Typical reasons why a call will not be screened are: high volume in
dispatch, language barrier with the caller, calls originating from a medical facility and calls
originating from the Police Department.
This policy only applies to incidents within the city limits of El Cajon and only when Heartland Fire & Rescue units are assigned to the incident. If a first response unit from another jurisdiction is responding into El Cajon, the response shall not be modified. If a Heartland Fire & Rescue (El Cajon) ambulance is on scene first and performs a medical assessment through direct patent contact and does not require assistance from an ALS fire apparatus (engine or truck), they may cancel that unit.
If an ALS ambulance from outside El Cajon is responding into El Cajon and the patient has been evaluated by an ALS fire apparatus (engine or truck) personnel, the Company Officer may elect to cancel the ALS ambulance and request a BLS ambulance to respond in lieu (if ETA for BLS is 20 minutes or less).
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: AFTER ACTION REVIEW PROCEDURE
NUMBER: 509.00
DATE: 08/28/2013
Page 1 of 9
PURPOSE
To establish a consistent process for evaluating operations on emergency incidents as a training tool and to
examine the performance of operational strategies and tactics deployed. The overall goal of the After Action
Review (AAR) Program is to improve safety and operational effectiveness of all fire personnel. Heartland Fire &
Rescue has a duty to its members to provide effective feedback from emergency incidents and continually strive
to improve effectiveness and safety in emergency operations.
The objective of this policy is to provide all Department members the experience of those who actually
participated in the incident; to highlight what went well and to address areas of concern. The process will be
positive and constructive in nature to better achieve maximum benefits. This process of incident analysis will
improve future performance by building upon successes, identifying deficiencies in procedures or department
policies, and identifying training needs. By examining an incident with these goals in mind, we will provide all
personnel with an opportunity to identify, examine, and employ best work practices based upon experience
and not entirely on theory.
Heartland Fire & Rescue shall use the After Action Review (AAR) as an educational tool for Incident
Commanders, Command Staff, Battalion Chiefs, Company Officers, and Fire Personnel to:
• highlight positive performance, good decision‐making, leadership skills, and tactics;
• show personnel the impact their actions had on the general outcome of the incident;
• compare how different strategies and tactics affected the outcome of the incident;
• identify safety and/or tactical concerns during operations;
• serve as a catalyst for revising tactical plans and Standard Operating Procedures;
• help identify additional training needs;
• disseminate critical lessons learned;
• identify fire prevention and code enforcement deficiencies;
• identify contributing factors to firefighter injuries and fatalities.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: AFTER ACTION REVIEW PROCEDURE
NUMBER: 509.00
DATE: 08/28/2013
Page 2 of 9
POLICY
N/A
APPLICABILITY
Heartland Fire & Rescue‐ El Cajon Fire Department, La Mesa Fire Department, Lemon Grove Fire Department.
DEFINITION
N/A
AUTHORITY
Fire Chief
REFERENCE
N/A
PROCEDURE
There are two types of After Action Reviews that should be performed: Informal and Formal. Both are vitally
important for the professional development and safety of firefighters.
Informal AAR‐ This review is usually initiated on scene by the Incident Commander or Company Officer prior to
leaving the incident. This “Tailboard Review” is a brief discussion to identify the effectiveness of strategies and
tactics used during the incident. This informal review is a valuable educational tool and is most effective when
performed on scene or directly following the stabilization of the incident.
Formal AAR‐ This incident review is utilized for critiquing larger, more complex, or tactically challenging
incidents. A Formal AAR will be required of any incident involving a Firefighter injury which requires emergency
care or as requested by the Fire Chief or his/her designee.
The Training Chief will act as the AAR Coordinator to lead and direct the preparation of the AAR, its
presentation, and the discussion of the incident response.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: AFTER ACTION REVIEW PROCEDURE
NUMBER: 509.00
DATE: 08/28/2013
Page 3 of 9
The Training Chief may elect to appoint a Chief Officer other than the Incident Commander to be the AAR
Coordinator, provided he/she was not assigned to the incident.
The AAR Coordinator will notify the Incident Commander of record that a Formal AAR is to be conducted. The
Incident Commander is then responsible for coordinating the compilation of information for the AAR, including
Company Officers’ “First‐In” interviews, fire reports, pictures, maps, diagrams, and copies of all incident radio
communications from the dispatch center.
The AAR Coordinator will be responsible for coordinating the date and location of the AAR. It will always be the
goal to deliver the AAR as close to the date of the initial incident as possible. Every effort must be made to have
all personnel from the incident present at the AAR. The Training Chief shall notify and include all resources,
units, and personnel from responding outside agencies/disciplines (ex. FD, PD, SDGE, MTS, Public Works, Fire
Investigation, etc.) to participate in the AAR. It is understood that due to scheduling conflicts all personnel may
not be able to attend the AAR. Video recording of the AAR is strongly advised and will prove useful in
disseminating vital information to those unable to attend.
A copy of the Formal AAR will be kept on file by the department Training Division.
When to Conduct a Formal AAR:
Structure fire where unusual extinguishment problems existed
Any incident that an unusual event occurs e.g.; explosion, collapse, etc.
Close call incident where a firefighter experiences a near‐miss or when injury occurs
Major Hazardous Materials incident
Mass Casualty Incident
Specialty Rescue Operations with multi‐company involvement
Any large scale event or incident (multiple alarm fire, major vegetation fire, etc.)
As requested by the Fire Chief or his/her designee
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: AFTER ACTION REVIEW PROCEDURE
NUMBER: 509.00
DATE: 08/28/2013
Page 4 of 9
Preparing for a Formal AAR
Preparation is essential for delivery of an educational and thought‐provoking AAR. Some key points to
remember in preparing for an AAR include:
The AAR is a training function to improve emergency operations, not an attempt to find fault
Horseplay or criticism during an AAR will not be tolerated
Ground rules must be set for an open, honest, and respectful discussion
Every action had a reason; finding out “why” may assist in future tactical decisions
Talk about what worked, what didn’t, what could be done better next time, and how to train to
accomplish those goals
This Section Left Blank Intentionally
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: AFTER ACTION REVIEW PROCEDURE
NUMBER: 509.00
DATE: 08/28/2013
Page 5 of 9
Heartland Fire & Rescue values open and honest communication throughout the organization and understands
that communication strengthens unity and morale in the department. We must strive for perfection in our
operations while being willing to share our mistakes and allow others to learn from them. It is in the collective
sharing of this information that Heartland Fire & Rescue will continue to build organizational trust and
operational excellence.
FORMAL AFTER ACTION REVIEW WORKSHEET
Officer_____________________________________ Company ___________
Complete the areas of the form in which you have information to benefit the review. It may not be
necessary to fill out every area listed. Submit the completed form to Chief Officer in charge of Training
within 48 hours of the incident.
Dispatch information
Time of alarm? _________________
Was the dispatch information accurate?_____________________
Was the map page accurate? _____________________________
Was the Pre‐Plan accurate? ______________________________
Was the MDC on‐line and working? ________________________
Alarm Response
Was the response appropriate/adequate?__________________________________
Did the closest company respond? _______________________________________
Any unusual response issues (trolley, road closure, traffic, etc.)?________________
Was the apparatus placement appropriate?________________________________
Were non‐fire vehicles obstructing access?_________________________________
Could the response be improved?________________________________________
Size Up
Was the size‐up adequate and clear?_____________________________________
Was Command established?____________________________________________
Were appropriate, prioritized orders given?_________________________________
Were the appropriate amount and type of resources available on scene?_________
Rescue
Was rescue potential considered? ________________________________
Was rescue a problem? _______ __
Was it a coordinated effort? _____________________________________
Could rescue efforts be improved? _____________________________ _
Exposures
Exterior exposure problems? ________
Interior exposure problems? ________
How were exposures protected? ________
Could exposure protection be improved? __________________________
Fire Strategy
What was the leader’s intent?___________________________________________
What was the strategy?________________________________________________
Did the strategy or overall goal change?___________________________________
Was the attack plan effective?___________________________________________
Could the overall strategy have been improved?_____________________________
Safety
Were Utilities secured in a timely manner?_________________________________
Was RIC established?_________________________________________________
Was an Accountability Officer assigned?___________________________________
Was the Accountability Tag System utilized by crews in IDLH?_________________
Were hazards identified and communicated to IC and personnel on the incident?________________
Was the safety of the public considered?__________________________________
Was Rehab initiated?_________________________________________________
Ventilation
How was ventilation accomplished? _____
Was ventilation coordinated with Fire Attack? _________________
Could ventilation efforts be improved? _______
Confinement/Extinguishment
Was confinement strategy effective? _______ _
How did fire extend? ___________________
Were there adequate hose lines/gpms on the fire?___________________________
Could tactics be improved? _______ _
Was water supply adequate? ____________________________________________
Salvage & Overhaul
What action was taken? __________________ ____
Was it effective? ___________ ____
Could it have been improved? ____ ____
Apparatus Placement/Staging
Did the first‐in units use the most effective location available? _______ _
Were there access issues to the incident location? ____________________________
Was the Truck able to access the structure (if applicable)? _____________________
Could placement of apparatus have been improved? ______
Investigation
Was fire scene preserved? ________
Was fire cause suspicious? ________
Appropriate comments on investigation ____________
____ __________
____ __________
Command
Who took initial command? ______ _
Where was command post location? ______ _
Was location effective? _____ __
Was command transferred? _____ _ _
How was transfer achieved? _______ _
Was transfer effective? Why? ________
Was it clear who was in command? ______________________
What positions of the ICS were filled? _____ ________
Was divisioning used? _ __________
Was it effective? _ _____________
Were ICS assignments clear & understood? ________ _
Conclusions & Recommendations
List all recommendations on policies, procedures, SOGs, and specific lessons learned:
________ __ _
________ __ _
_______ _ __
________ __ _
Plot Map (To be completed by First‐In Officer) Please include fire building, location of units, hydrants, main
sizes, hose lines, appropriate features of structure, utility shut off, etc.
Incident Address: _______________________________________
Officer Creating Plot Map: _________________________________
PROCEDURE
TITLE: ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM EQUIPMENT
NUMBER: 510.00
DATE: 9/21/2012
Page 1 of 4
PURPOSE
To establish a consistent method of maintaining Heartland Fire & Rescue’s Accountability System
Equipment.
POLICY Accuracy of all accountability systems will be the responsibility of all personnel. All MDC and Accountability systems shall reflect an accurate depiction of personnel and positioning at the beginning of each shift through the Daily accountability Check, and shall be maintained as needed throughout the entirety of each shift. APPLICABILITY
Heartland Fire & Rescue‐ El Cajon Fire Department, La Mesa Fire Department, Lemon Grove Fire
Department.
AUTHORITY
Fire Chief
REFERENCE
San Diego Operational Area Policy #5‐A dated 2/1/2012
PROCEDURE
To insure that all Accountability System components are in‐place and reflect an accurate display of unit
personnel, seat assignment, and are in serviceable condition whenever a unit is in service.
PROCEDURE
TITLE: ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM EQUIPMENT
NUMBER: 510.00
DATE: 9/21/2012
Page 2 of 4
Daily Accountability Checks Shall Include:
Mobile Data Computer (MDC)
MDC is to reflect appropriate staffing configuration from the onset of shift
Company Officer is responsible for accuracy of daily accountability
Update immediately as required with personnel movement throughout the shift
Must be accurate to ensure accountability at incidents
Tag System Placement
Confirm Accountability Tags (and Company Tags if appropriate) are attached to metal ring on left
shoulder strap of BA with proper seat assignments for all positions at beginning of shift
Equipment Inventory: Engine and Truck
Accountability Tag for each BA with appropriate seat designator
Captain – Tag #1
Engineer – Tag #2
Firefighter (behind Captain) – Tag #3
Firefighter (behind Engineer) – Tag #4
Company Tag for Captain and Chief Officer BAs
Accountability Clipboard (stored in an accessible location in the cab of each apparatus)
Writing utensils
Timer
Accountability Tracking Reports (ATRs), minimum of five
PROCEDURE
TITLE: ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM EQUIPMENT
NUMBER: 510.00
DATE: 9/21/2012
Page 3 of 4
Equipment Inventory: Ambulances
NOTE: The Tag numbers assigned at the beginning of the shift will follow those persons on that
ambulance throughout the shift, regardless of seat/position rotation.
Accountability Tag for each BA with appropriate seat designators.
Driver ‐ Tag #1
Passenger Side Firefighter‐Paramedic ‐ Tag #2
Reserve Firefighter‐Tag #3
Company Tag on BA with Accountability Tag #1
Equipment Inventory: Command Vehicles
Accountability Tag for BA
Company Tag
Accountability Clipboard
Writing utensils
Timer
Accountability Tracking Reports (ATRs)
PROCEDURE
TITLE: ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM EQUIPMENT
NUMBER: 510.00
DATE: 9/21/2012
Page 4 of 4
Reserve Apparatus Accountability System
There may be certain situations that require additional systems to be placed in service, such as up‐
staffing for major events, backfilling engines for strike teams, or lost/damaged tags. For this purpose,
spare “BLANK” tags will be kept in the “move up boxes” in the Captains’ offices of Stations 6, 10, 11. In
addition, pre‐labeled tags for routinely used reserve units (i.e. Engine 206, Engine 209) will be kept in
the move up boxes at those respective stations. If there are no pre‐labeled tags available, blank red
engine tags will be utilized to label the BAs. A permanent marker shall be used to label the unit
number and identify the seat assignment on the Accountability Tags and Company Tag. For example, if
Engine 8 was out on strike team assignment, the replacement engine Accountability Tags would be
labeled “E208‐1, E208‐2, E208‐3, and E208‐4” and the Company Tag would be labeled “E208.” The
marker labeling is to be removed at the conclusion of its use with denatured alcohol.
REMINDER: El Cajon and La Mesa will utilize the 200 series Engine identifiers only if the original engine
is still in service. If the original engine is out of service and a reserve engine is taking its place, the
replacing engine assumes the original engine’s designator i.e. E8 and not E208. This holds true for El
Cajon Ambulances.
Lemon Grove will utilize this same numbering sequence except that the 200 series will be 300.
All tags are to be replaced in their identified stored location immediately upon the apparatus going out
of service.
Passport Accountability System
The previous accountability system, the Passport System, will be retained as a backup in the event an
MDC is not installed or available on an apparatus. In this event, the Passport System of plastic/Velcro
name tags will be put in service as an additional means of incident personnel management alongside
the current system.
Lost or Damaged Tags
In the event Accountability Tags are lost or damaged, temporary replacement(s) must be placed in
service immediately for crew safety. The Duty Battalion Chief is to be notified of lost or damaged
PROCEDURE
TITLE: ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM EQUIPMENT
NUMBER: 510.00
DATE: 9/21/2012
Page 5 of 4
Accountability equipment immediately for permanent replacement(s) to be ordered. At no time shall
an apparatus or BA be placed in service without the appropriate Accountability Tag and/or Company
Tag in place.
Additional Accountability Tracking Report (ATR) Forms
Additional ATRs are available for printable download through Heartland Fire & Rescue’s Website. The
ATRs are located by selecting the “Employees” section from the website homepage, then selecting
“Forms,” and choosing “Accountability Tracking Report Form.” Adequate supplies of ATRs are to be
kept in the Accountability Clipboard.
Intra‐Agency Time Exchanges and Overtime
During Intra‐Agency Time Exchanges (HFR P&P 108.00 4/01/2012) and Overtime opportunities, it will
be the responsibility of the exchanging personnel to transfer their department‐specific BAs and update
the Accountability Tags to reflect the apparatus they are assigned to. Upon completion of the
assignment, the proper BA for that unit will be replaced with the Accountability Tags attached.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: Emergency Vehicle Operation
NUMBER: 511.00
DATE: 02/05/2015
Page 1 of 6
PURPOSE
To provide for a common approach to ensure safe emergency vehicle operations.
APPLICABILITY
Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon, City of La Mesa, City of Lemon Grove.
DEFINITIONS
California Basic Speed Law: No person shall drive a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than is
reasonable or prudent having due regard for weather, visibility, the traffic on, and the surface and
width of, the highway, at a speed which endangers the safety of persons or property.
Due Regard: A reasonably careful person performing similar duties and under similar circumstances,
would act in the same manner. This includes, but is not limited to, the concept that an emergency
vehicle should exercise reasonable driving tactics intended to avoid all traffic collisions.
Code Three: The operation of an authorized department vehicle in response to an emergency call, or
while actively engaged in an emergency call, but not returning from an emergency call, when such
emergency requires an expeditious response. Only those personnel, who are properly trained,
licensed, and whose duties necessitate driving Code Three shall do so.
Code Two: All regular operation of authorized department vehicles except for that which involves the
use of lights and sirens. This includes routine driving and non‐emergency responses.
AUTHORITY
Fire Chief
REFERENCE
California Vehicle Code (CVC) Sections 21055, 21056 and 22350, NFPA 1500
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: Emergency Vehicle Operation
NUMBER: 511.00
DATE: 02/05/2015
Page 2 of 6
PROCEDURE
Fire Department vehicles shall always be operated with caution and courtesy at all times. In addition to
the principles of the California Basic Speed Law, the Vehicle Code does not exempt emergency vehicles
from driving with due regard for public safety.
Any person driving or riding as a passenger in a department vehicle shall have their seatbelt on at all
times when the vehicle is in motion. It is the operator’s responsibility to ensure that all passengers
have their seatbelts fastened. The lone exception to the seatbelt requirement is when patient care in
the back of an ambulance does not momentarily allow for it. Every effort shall be made by Fire
Department personnel to resume wearing a seat belt when in the back of an ambulance, as soon as
possible.
Anytime a Fire Department vehicle is not operating Code Three (including Code Two responses to 911
calls), the vehicle must be operated in accordance with all applicable traffic laws.
Whenever a fire apparatus is parked, besides in quarters, the vehicle will be chocked on the engineer’s
side of the apparatus, on the downhill side when applicable. When two chocks are available, both sides
of the tire shall be chocked. Apparatus not equipped with chocks (i.e. ambulances, staff vehicles, etc.)
are exempt from this clause.
BACKING
The ultimate responsibility of backing rests solely on the operator of the vehicle. A spotter will be used
as a backer when available.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: Emergency Vehicle Operation
NUMBER: 511.00
DATE: 02/05/2015
Page 3 of 6
Prior to backing, the operator shall inform the spotter(s) of the intended route. Use only the four
approved hand signals to guide the vehicle. In addition to the “STOP” hand signal, shout “STOP” for all
emergency stops.
Turn rear to LEFT Turn rear to RIGHT
Emergency Stop or Stop Come Straight Back
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: Emergency Vehicle Operation
NUMBER: 511.00
DATE: 02/05/2015
Page 4 of 6
At all times during backing maneuvers:
Emergency lights will be activated (additional rear working lights, if available, are encouraged)
The operator will have their window rolled down.
The operator will not be wearing a headset.
All personnel will exit the vehicle and assist with backing.
The backer will be located on the driver’s side of the vehicle, so that they have a clear view of
the driver in the side view mirror and a clear view of the rear of the vehicle. The driver shall
only follow signals from the backer to avoid confusion caused by multiple spotters.
Eye contact with the backer will be maintained throughout the operation. If at any time, the
driver loses sight of the backer, the vehicle is to be immediately stopped.
A backup camera is not to be used in place of a backer and is not to be used with the vehicle in
motion.
If backing occurs at night, a hand light shall be used by the backer.
If no backer is available, then it shall be the responsibility of the operator to survey the area for
obstacles and hazards prior to performing the backing maneuver.
During times of technical backing needs such as obstacle congestion or unusual maneuvering, the
company officer should be positioned at the most advantageous point to survey the entire backing
maneuver, paying close attention to the entire scene, traffic control, crew positions, topography
changes, personnel protective equipment and the path of the apparatus.
CODE THREE DRIVING
When an emergency vehicle is operating “Code Three” the sirens and warning lights must be in
use at all times the vehicle is in motion. The “Hi‐Lo” tone is not an authorized sound and is not
to be used.
Code Three driving shall never violate the Basic Speed Law.
Emergency vehicle operators shall never employ aggressive techniques to force other drivers to
yield the right‐of‐way.
Code Three driving is not to be regularly used on the freeway/highway. The use of lights and
sirens on the freeway/highway should be limited to operating on the shoulder and with slowed
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: Emergency Vehicle Operation
NUMBER: 511.00
DATE: 02/05/2015
Page 5 of 6
or stopped traffic in the lanes. The use of rear amber warning lights is permitted for
freeway/highway responses.
Passing is permissible on the left only. Exceptions: when vehicles are in the left turn lane,
passing the vehicles is permitted on the right side. When using a designated “right turn only”
lane, passing is permitted on the right side, but only with extreme caution. When a vehicle does
not yield the right of way and has stopped in such a manner that passing on the left is not
possible, then passing is permitted on the right side, but only with extreme caution.
When approaching an intersection, the operator shall reduce the speed of an emergency
vehicle so as to allow the vehicle to come to a complete stop, if necessary, based on the
position and actions of cross and opposing vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Prior to movement
through the intersection, the operator of the emergency vehicle shall visually account for the
vehicles in each of the lanes of the cross and opposing traffic.
It is permissible to use oncoming lanes at intersections if it is clear and extreme caution is used.
When blocked at an intersection, whether by signal or traffic, and passage via opposing traffic
lane is not possible, turn off all emergency warning devices and wait for the light to change. Do
not force other drivers into the intersection.
Operators shall maintain situational awareness of other responding vehicles at all times.
Operators should coordinate their response routes with other emergency vehicles which may
be responding Code Three in the same area. Actions to support this practice include
announcing anticipated intersections crossings via radio and use of the Automatic Vehicle
Locator (AVL) system on the Mobile Data Computer (MDC). Operators are reminded that the
use of AVL to track other vehicles is not 100% accurate and should not be relied upon
accordingly.
Units responding from the same location shall take the same route unless the incidents
operational needs require approaching from different directions.
At railroad crossings, emergency vehicles shall slow enough to only proceed once it is visually
confirmed that there is no imminent rail traffic. Apparatus shall never be parked on railroad or
trolley tracks for any reason.
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
TITLE: Emergency Vehicle Operation
NUMBER: 511.00
DATE: 02/05/2015
Page 6 of 6
EMERGENCY ENCOUNTERED ENROUTE
If while on an emergency response, a unit encounters another incident, (fire, traffic, medical, etc.),
that unit will stop to investigate, advise Dispatch if the unit is required to remain at new incident, and
request additional resources for the initial response if needed.
POLICIES & PROCEDURES
TITLE: PPE CARE, MAINTENANCE AND
RESPONSE ATTIRE
NUMBER: 512.00
DATE: 2‐25‐15
Page 1 of 9
PURPOSE
To standardize the use of personal protective clothing and equipment within the Heartland Fire and Rescue cooperative agencies. To ensure the protection, health and safety of emergency response personnel during emergency and non‐emergency operations. To make certain all personnel are in compliance with applicable NFPA standards. AUTHORITY
Fire Chief
APPLICABILITY
Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon, City of La Mesa, City of Lemon Grove.
POLICIES & PROCEDURES
Personnel shall adhere to the following procedures during emergency and non‐emergency operations. DEFINITIONS ELEMENTS – Individual, compliant pieces of PPE, that when worn together as an ensemble, provide protection to the upper and lower torso, arms, legs, head, hands and feet. FLAME RESISTANCE (FR) – Flame Resistance can be an inherent property of a material, or it can be imparted by a specific treatment. INDEPENDENT SERVICE PROVIDER (ISP) – An independent third party utilized by an organization to perform one or any combination of advanced inspection, advanced cleaning, and/or repair service. INHERENT FLAME RESISTANCE (IFR) – Flame Resistance that is naturally derived from the essential characteristics of a fiber or polymer.
POLICIES & PROCEDURES
TITLE: PPE CARE, MAINTENANCE AND
RESPONSE ATTIRE
NUMBER: 512.00
DATE: 2‐25‐15
Page 2 of 9
NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION AGENCY (NFPA) – Agency responsible for the design, performance, testing, and certification of protective clothing and equipment used by the fire service. All references to NFPA compliancy shall refer to the most recent edition. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) – Compliant protective clothing and equipment that when worn properly provide protection from some of the risks involved in emergency operations. PPE EQUIPMENT OFFICER – The individual responsible for selection, care, maintenance and approval of department PPE. LEVEL OF RESPONSE ATTIRE FULL STRUCTURAL FIREFIGHTING PPE – Shall consist of department provided, NFPA 1971 compliant structural firefighting helmet, eye protection, protective hood, structural firefighting jacket, structural firefighting pant, structural firefighting gloves, structural firefighting boots and a Self‐Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). Removal of goggles from helmets may be approved to preserve their condition during live fire training. MODIFIED STRUCTURAL FIREFIGHTING PPE – Shall consist of department provided, NFPA 1971 compliant structural firefighting helmet, eye protection, structural firefighting jacket, structural firefighting pant, leather or extrication gloves (medical gloves are permitted while performing patient care) and protective toe boots. FULL WILDLAND FIREFIGHTING PPE – Shall consist of department provided, NFPA 1977 compliant wildland or structural firefighting helmet with shroud, goggles, wildland jacket, wildland pant, wildland gloves, leather boots (wildland boots where agency provided) and web gear including fire shelter. Note: Nomex or FR station pants and an IFR cotton, wool or FR t‐shirt (long sleeved t‐shirt if using a single lined jacket) must be worn under wildland firefighting PPE jacket. Short sleeve t‐shirt may be worn when wearing a dual lined wildland jacket. All t‐shirts worn while engaging in wildland or vegetation fire operations shall be 100%, non‐dyed, cotton or FR material with no “silk screen” or “heat transfer” identifications applied to them. Single layering wildland PPE shall consist of department approved, NFPA compliant helmet with shroud and goggles, gloves, web gear including fire shelter, wildland boots (where agency provided), non‐lined wildland jacket and a NFPA 1975/1977 dual compliant pant. A long or short sleeve 100%, non‐dyed, cotton or FR material with no silk screen or heat transfer identifications applied to them.
POLICIES & PROCEDURES
TITLE: PPE CARE, MAINTENANCE AND
RESPONSE ATTIRE
NUMBER: 512.00
DATE: 2‐25‐15
Page 3 of 9
MEDICAL AID PPE – Shall consist of standard precaution PPE (gloves, goggles, masks, gowns) as dictated by the needs of the incident. Issued NFPA 1999 compliant EMS jackets may be provided to personnel for use as needed. Modified structural PPE maybe worn when applicable. At no time will structural PPE be worn with the thermal liners removed. HEARING PROTECTION – Appropriate hearing protection shall be taken when personnel are exposed to dangerous noise levels for extended periods. Hearing Protection may be used with any PPE ensemble at the discretion of the individual and/or Company Officer. PROCEDURES All personnel are responsible for proper utilization of PPE during emergency and non‐emergency operations. Upon the acceptance date of this policy, all personnel shall wear only department approved PPE to meet replacement needs. The intent of this policy is to recognize a minimum standard of protection. The use of a higher level of PPE may be at the discretion individuals performing tasks. Company Officers shall ensure that personnel comply with appropriate PPE use as described in this policy. EMERGENCY INCIDENTS – Unless otherwise directed by the Company Officer, the following are the MININUM PPE requirements during these specified emergency operations:
Fires‐ (Structure, Vehicle, Dumpster, Aircraft Responses, Natural Gas Responses) – Full Structural Firefighting PPE. Note: Pump operators shall have a SCBA readily available, but not necessary on their person, during pumping operations. Pump operators may have the option of donning a utility leather glove or extrication glove during pumping operations. During overhaul operations, the company officer may modify the level of PPE required.
Vehicle Accidents – Personnel operating on an Engine, Truck, Rescue or department ALS ambulance shall wear a minimum of Modified Structural Firefighting PPE. All personnel shall follow the department High Visibility Roadway Response requirements. Hoods and SCBA’s shall be worn at the Company Officers discretion.
POLICIES & PROCEDURES
TITLE: PPE CARE, MAINTENANCE AND
RESPONSE ATTIRE
NUMBER: 512.00
DATE: 2‐25‐15
Page 4 of 9
Wildland and Vegetation Fires – Full Wildland Firefighting PPE.
Single resource/Overhead position – Single layer (NFPA 1975/1977 dual compliant) wildland PPE may be worn with Fire Chief approval.
Illegal Burns, Rubbish, Small Grass and Tree Fires – Company Officer shall determine the appropriate level of PPE required.
Hazardous Materials ‐ Full Structural Firefighting PPE. SCBA’s shall be worn at the Company Officers discretion.
Swiftwater – Class C uniform. All personnel shall refrain from donning structural firefighting pant, jacket and helmet or wildland helmet. A leather or extrication glove may be used. Personal Flotation Devices (PFD) shall be worn by emergency personnel while working within 10 feet of the water bank. Rain gear and/or bunker boots may be worn at the Company Officers discretion. This is usually reserved for personnel not working within 10 feet of the water bank.
Trench Rescue – Wildland jacket and pant, wildland helmet or structure helmet or rescue helmet, protective toe boots, leather or extrication gloves and safety glasses.
Technical Rescue‐ Wildland jacket and pant or structure PPE may be worn as determined by the Company Officer. Department issued rescue helmets should be worn.
Medical Aids – Medical Aid PPE as described.
Ringing Alarms – Full Structural Firefighting PPE.
Civil Disobedience – Full or Modified Structural Firefighting PPE. Level of protection will be at the Chief Officer or Company Officers discretion.
Weapons of Mass Destruction – Full Structural Firefighting PPE.
Other Incidents – For incidents that do not fall into the previously identified categories, the Company Officer shall determine the appropriate level of PPE required.
POLICIES & PROCEDURES
TITLE: PPE CARE, MAINTENANCE AND
RESPONSE ATTIRE
NUMBER: 512.00
DATE: 2‐25‐15
Page 5 of 9
Acting out of Class‐ While acting out of class (whether acting above or below in rank) personnel shall wear the appropriate color helmet for the rank they are acting in.
BLS/EMT’s‐ Shall consist of standard precaution PPE (gloves, goggles, masks, gowns) as dictated by the needs of the incident. Issued NFPA 1999 compliant EMS jackets may be available to personnel for use as needed. NFPA compliant helmets (Blue) will be provided. Use of helmets (i.e. vehicle accidents) will be at the discretion of the Company Officer.
Chief Officers‐ The appropriate level of PPE for Chief Officers shall be at the discretion of the Incident Commander.
HIGH VISIBILITY ROADWAY RESPONSE – All personnel shall wear HFR provided, OSHA approved 23 CFR 634 ANSI 207 Class 2 vests or jackets prior to exiting their apparatus in the following situations:
Whenever personnel are operating on or near a roadway, highway, surface street or other area where vehicles operate.
Whenever personnel are operating in a trolley or railroad right of way.
Whenever personnel are operating in industrial areas where mobile vehicles and/or mobile machines are in use.
Whenever personnel are operating in construction areas.
Whenever the Company Officer determines it is necessary for added safety. EXCEPTIONS – Due to conflicting regulations in NFPA, material limitations and flammability, the High Visibility garment shall NOT be worn in the following circumstances
Whenever personnel are directly engaged in active fire suppression operations or in proximity to heat and/or burning materials. This exception is not to include command staff or pump operators.
Whenever personnel are directly engaged in extrication or technical rescue where the garment may cause entanglement.
Whenever personnel are directly involved in hazardous materials containment, control or mitigation operations.
High Visibility garments shall not be worn under SCBA’s or wildland web gear.
POLICIES & PROCEDURES
TITLE: PPE CARE, MAINTENANCE AND
RESPONSE ATTIRE
NUMBER: 512.00
DATE: 2‐25‐15
Page 6 of 9
COMMAND VESTS – Command vests shall be worn by command staff on incidents requiring identification of ICS positions. TRAINING – Personnel shall wear the appropriate level of PPE based on the type of training engaged in. CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Use of an ISP – It will be the intent of Heartland Fire and Rescue to submit structural PPE annually to a certified NFPA 1851 compliant ISP for advanced inspection, cleaning and repair. Storage ‐ PPE shall not be hung on the exterior of the apparatus. Hanging jackets and pants on the exterior of the apparatus may cause damage to both the apparatus and the gear. PPE shall not be stored in direct UV light whenever possible. High visibility vests are not constructed of FR material and shall not be stored on turnout jackets. This is to reduce the potential of responding to a structure fire with the non‐FR vest still on the jacket. Routine Inspection – Personnel are responsible for inspection of their PPE each shift to ensure it is in proper working order. Inspection criteria shall follow posted guidelines. Any defect or damage shall be reported to a supervisor immediately. All PPE elements shall be marked with the last name of the employee in permanent black ink on the interior label if not already provided by the manufacturer. Cleaning – All PPE elements shall be thoroughly cleaned per manufacturer’s instruction and/or posted guidelines when soiled or after exposure to an Immediate Danger to Life and Health (IDLH) environment. Personnel are responsible for the cleaning of their own PPE. The department shall provide a means of having soiled and contaminated PPE elements cleaned and decontaminated. Soiled or contaminated PPE elements shall not be brought home, washed in home or public laundries. Due to the possibility of cross contamination, it is recommended that station uniforms are cleaned in department provided cleaning facilities and should not be taken home.
POLICIES & PROCEDURES
TITLE: PPE CARE, MAINTENANCE AND
RESPONSE ATTIRE
NUMBER: 512.00
DATE: 2‐25‐15
Page 7 of 9
Modification and repair – PPE shall not be modified from its original issued design or repaired without authorization from the PPE Equipment Officer. Removal of ear shrouds or goggles from structural or wildland helmets is considered a form of modification and is strictly prohibited unless approved by the PPE equipment officer, chief officer or an instructor in charge during training exercises. This modification shall be considered temporary. All repairs and/or modifications to structural, wildland and EMS PPE shall be performed by a department approved certified ISP.
Helmets‐ (Structure, Wildland and Rescue) Helmets shall be kept clean to the touch. They must be in good condition free of deep scratches, cracks, chips and melted areas. Original color of the helmet must be recognizable from a distance. Minimum identification requirements on helmets will consist of HRT on the side panels, approved helmet shield and last name of the firefighter on the rear brim. No unauthorized stickers may be added to the helmets.
Helmet Shields – Shields shall comply with department specifications only. They shall reflect proper rank and shall be maintained in the condition as to be legible and correct color. Shields shall be replaced through the PPE Officer. Shield fields will be in the order (starting from the top down) of rank, last name and department (HEARTLAND). A medallion of proper rank will be placed between the last name and the department name. Technical Rescue Helmets – Department provided, ANSI certified technical rescue helmets may be used during technical rescue operations when the danger of fire or flash fire is non‐existent. Trouser Suspenders‐ Personnel choosing to use suspenders with their structural firefighting pants shall ensure that they are worn on/over the shoulders at all times and may not droop or sag from/at the waist. Thermal Protection Liners – Structural PPE shall be not be placed in service or worn without properly installed thermal protection liners in accordance with the manufacturer.
Replacement/Retirement – Personnel shall notify the PPE Equipment Officer if there is a need to replace any PPE, including but not limited to age or damage. Structural pants, jackets, helmets, hoods, boots and gloves shall comply with the NFPA ten year maximum (from manufacturing date) service life standards. Retired PPE shall not be reissued for use in any type of live fire conditions.
POLICIES & PROCEDURES
TITLE: PPE CARE, MAINTENANCE AND
RESPONSE ATTIRE
NUMBER: 512.00
DATE: 2‐25‐15
Page 8 of 9
Retired PPE may be used for training purposes in non‐live fire conditions but only after properly identified as such. Identification of retired PPE will be as follows:
The lower back area of the jacket will be stenciled in red paint – NO LIVE FIRE
The right hamstring area of the pant will be stenciled in red paint – NO LIVE FIRE
A half inch hole will be drilled into the top of structure helmets. There will be an exception for those individuals that wish to keep their service helmets upon retirement.
APPROPRIATE USE OF PPE – PPE is for use of personnel for Department related functions only. Any use of PPE outside of normal duty functions will be by approval and at the discretion of the Fire Chief. Members may be given opportunity to keep certain PPE items upon retirement from the department with the approval and at the discretion of the Fire Chief.