P&P Ch. 14 Incident Command

14.13 COMMAND OPTIONS The responsibility of the first arriving unit or ranking member to assume Command presents several options depending on the situation. If a Chief Officer or a ranking member from a unit without tactical capabilities (no fire suppression equipment) initiates Command, setting up the Command Post should be a top priority. At most incidents the initial IC will be a Company Officer. The following Command options define the Company Officer's direct involvement in tactical activities and the Command modes that can be used. 14.13.1 Nothing Showing Mode These situations require investigation by the initial arriving unit while other units remain in the Staged mode. The officer will go with the company to investigate while using a portable radio to Command the incident. Example: "Engine 45 arrival at 70th Ave and Taft St. Nothing showing, investigating. Engine 45 is Command. All incoming units stage level one." 14.13.2 Fast Attack Mode The Fast Attack Mode is for situations that require immediate action to stabilize the incident and requires the Company Officer's involvement with the tasks. In these situations, the company officer goes with the crew to provide the appropriate level of supervision and assistance. These situations include, but are not limited to: 1. Immediate intervention for an obvious lifesaving situation 2. The immediacy and/or size of the problem dictates the first-in company officer's decisions. NOTE: If there are multiple victims requiring rescue, immediately establishing Command and assigning additional units to specific tactics/tasks may enhance rescue operations. 3. Any incident where the safety and welfare of firefighters is the priority and supervision is necessary. 4. Working incidents where further investigation is required to make effective decisions. Where fast intervention is critical, the Company Officer will maintain Command by portable radio until one of the following occurs: 1. The situation is stabilized. 2. The situation does not stabilize and the officer must withdraw to the exterior and establish a Command Post. 3. Command is transferred to another higher ranking officer. 4. Command is "passed" to another officer. 14.13.3 Passing Command In certain situations, it may be advantageous for the first arriving Company Officer to "Pass Command" to the officer of another unit. This is often the case when the first company is in the Fast Attack Mode or the tactics require a full crew. Passing Command allows the next arriving officer to prepare to take Command on arrival. There is a major difference in the mental processing for an officer being an order receiver versus being an order giver. "Passing" Command to another unit by radio allows the next arriving officer to mentally prepare to be in the Command Mode and not be surprised with the role change on arrival. The first arriving officer or member, after giving the brief initial report, simply passes Command to the next due unit. Example -- Unit first to arrive: "Rescue 5 arrival at bus accident on I-95. Several people trapped and injured. Rescue 5 is fully engaged. Passing Command to Engine 5." Command can only be "passed" (transferred to a unit that has not arrived on scene) to the next arriving unit. Allowing Command to be "passed" more than once or to other than the next arriving unit can result in free-lance operations, and a loss of Command accountability. Transfer of Command may be done numerous times, as delineated in the transfer of Command Guidelines (14.21). Company Officers who "Pass Command" shall be prepared to justify why assuming Command was inappropriate.

14.13.4 Command Mode This mode is chosen when there is a complex situation due to a major incident, e.g., many people trapped, hazardous materials incident, or multiple or mass casualty incident. The Company officer in the "combat mode" assisting a firefighter will only bring marginal abatement of the problem. The first-in Company officer should choose to be in the Command Mode. In these situations, the "greater good" is best served by immediate management and a focus on the "big picture. Certain incidents, because of their size, complexity, or potential for rapid expansion require immediate, strong, direct, overall Command. In such a case, the Company Officer will: 1. Initially assume an exterior, safe, and effective Command position and maintain that position until relieved by a higher ranking officer. 2. Initiate and use a tactical work sheet. 3. Begin to develop the Incident Action Plan by developing strategy and tactics. 4. Call for additional resources and assign resources in a coordinated attack. When the Command Mode is chosen, the Company officer has the following options for their crew: 1. Assign the crew members to work under another Company Officer. 2. Assign the crew members to staff functions at the Command Post. 14.14 DISASTER Certain situations by virtue of their size, nature, or complexity may require the use of the Fire Department's Disaster Plan, the City of Hollywood Disaster plan, or the Broward County Disaster Plan. When used properly in conjunction with the Incident Command System, a Disaster Plan will extend and enhance the overall effectiveness of the Fire Department's operation. The Incident Commander in the event of a disaster will immediately notify the Fire Chief, who will notify the City Manager. They will see that the necessary plan(s) is implemented. 14.15 SEARCH AND RESCUE: THE NUMBER ONE PRIORITY OF MOST INCIDENTS Search and rescue should be performed according to Department procedures that provide for the safety of search crew personnel. The objective of a search is to locate possible victims, not create additional ones by neglecting the safety of the search crew. Before entering the search area, all search team members must be familiar with a specific search plan specifying the overall objective, the limits of the search area. individual assignments, etc. This will require a brief conference among crew members before entering the search area to develop and communicate the plan. A minimum of two or more members should conduct individual search activities Company Officers must maintain an awareness of the location and function of all members within their crew during search operations. A brief look around the floor below the fire may provide a good reference for the search team, as floors in multiple story occupancies usually have a similar layout. Searches should be avoided that expose search crews to fire, unless they are protected with a charged hose line, in order to ensure a safe escape route. 14.16 INCIDENT TIME Incident receipt time shall be recorded. Fire Dispatch will automatically give Command the incident time every 10 minutes for the first 30 minutes and then every 15 minutes until the incident is announced under control. Command will acknowledge the incident time and give a brief status/progress report. Example: "Communications to Command, the incident time is 10 minutes" "Command acknowledge, incident time 10 minutes (status/progress report)" The purpose of announcing incident time is to assist the Incident Commander in judging the effectiveness of the strategy and to help predict the possibility of structural collapse. The reason it is important for Command to transmit a brief status report (progress report), is to inform all Divisions, Groups, and Company Officers of the overall situation and strategy being employed to control the incident.

14.17 STRUCTURAL COLLAPSE Structural collapse of any part of a building (floors, walls, ceilings, roofs, or structural members) during firefighting is a leading cause of death of firefighters. The potential for structural collapse is one of the most difficult factors to predict during initial size-up and ongoing firefighting. Structural collapse usually occurs without warning. After arrival at a fire scene, the Incident Commander must consider numerous variables to determine the structural integrity of a burning building: -Fire size and location -Length of time the fire has been burning -Conditions on arrival -Size of building (single or multistory, floor area, and height) -Age of building (deterioration of structural members, evidence of weathering, use of lightweight materials in new construction -Presence of combustible materials -Occupancy -Renovations or modifications to the building NOTE: Establish a collapse zone around buildings with parapet walls. Structures other than fire resistant or heavy timber construction are not designed to withstand the effects of fire, and can be expected to fail after approximately twenty minutes of heavy fire involvement. If after 10-15 minutes of interior operations, and heavy fire conditions still exist, Command should begin a careful evaluation of the structural conditions and should be fully prepared to withdraw interior crews and resort to a defensive position. 14.18 EVACUATION It is a principal Command responsibility to continually evaluate and determine if the fire building is tenable for interior operations. When a hazard that may affect the safety of fire personnel becomes apparent, the primary concern is for the welfare of those personnel. When the extent of fire prohibits, or the structure becomes unsafe due to the threat of structural collapse, explosion, backdraft, etc., interior firefighting operations should be abandoned. To protect personnel from the adverse effects of such hazards, a structured method of area evacuation must be used. Upon receipt of the evacuation order, Company Officers shall assemble their crews and promptly exit to a safe location where the Company Officer will again account for all crew members. Shortly after the evacuation order, Division Officers shall begin the process of accounting for all evacuated crews. When all companies and crew members are accounted for through a Personnel Accountability Report (PAR), the evacuation process is complete. At this time a more specific determination as to the reality and extent of the hazard can be made and efforts initiated to redeploy or redirect the attack forces. Building evacuation generally involves a shift from offensive to defensive mode as an operational strategy. In such cases, Command must develop a corresponding Action Plan and must communicate that plan to all operating elements and perform a PAR. This can be a difficult shift to complete, as companies are committed to positions in an offensive manner. It is extremely important that everyone understands that a strategic shift has been made.

14.19 DOWNED OR MISSING PERSONNEL It is the intent of the Incident Command Syslem (ICS) to insure the safety of alL personnel operating at an incident. During the incident, if it becomes apparent that a firefighter(s) is not accounted for or has transmitted a message of distress, the following procedure will be followed: 1. The Incident Commander will be notified as soon as it is apparent that a person or person's whereabouts/location is unknown, or if someone transmits an emergency using their emergency alert button on the radio. This will then become the incident priority. The incident Commander will be informed of the last known location of the person(s) and how long they have been on air (S.C.B.A). The Division, Group Leader, Company Officer, or Accountability Officer can provide this information. 2. The Incident Commander will immediately deploy the Rapid Intervention Team (R.I.T.) (14.27.2) and begin a systematic search of the area. The officer designated as the Search Group Supervisor will oversee the search. This officer will be responsible for the progress of the search. He/she shall have at his disposal all available equipment and personnel that do not impact on the containment of the incident, which would further jeopardize the missing personnel. 3. The IC shall immediately evaluate the need for additional alarms and if needed, contact fire dispatch to assign more units, whether they are interdepartmental or mutual aid. Relief crews will be set up to relieve the search crews as necessary. 4. Personnel conducting the search will remain as quiet as possible during the search to better enable them to hear the Personal Protection Alarm Device (PPD). Personnel who are in distress should manually activate the P.P.D. Periodic updates will be transmitted to the Search Group leader so that appropriate planning can be made for subsequent crew search teams. 5. A medical unit(s) will be placed in standby mode. Their sole purpose will be the treatment and transport of found personnel or personnel who have received injuries during the search. It will be the Incident Commander's responsibility to assure sufficient medical units are standing by. 6. If the downed Firefighter has a radio, all operating crews except the Search Group and search teams will move to an alternate channel assigned by dispatch. This will allow free access of the primary talk group to those being rescued and those effecting rescue. 7. If an all Chiefs' page has not already been transmitted prior to this event, it will be done at this time. 8. No information regarding the search or subsequent rescue will be given to the news media without permission of the Fire Chief or designee.

14.20 FIREFIGHTER REHABILITATION The Incident Commander shall consider the circumstances of each incident and make adequate provisions early in the incident for the rest and rehabilitation of all members operating at the scene. These provisions shall include medical evaluation, treatment and monitoring, food and fluid replenishment, mental rest and relief from extreme climatic conditions. All supervisors shall maintain an awareness of the condition of each member operating within their span of control and ensure that adequate steps are taken to provide for each member's safety and health. The command structure shall be utilized to request relief and the reassignment of fatigued crews. During periods of hot weather, members shall be encouraged to drink water and activity beverages throughout the work day. During any emergency incident or training evolution, all members shall advise their supervisor when they believe that their level of fatigue or exposure to heat or cold is approaching a level that could affect them, their crew, or the operation in which they are involved. Members shall also remain aware of the health and safety of other members of their crew. A member will be placed in charge of the Rehab Group. The Incident Commander will normally designate the location for the Rehabilitation Area. If a specific location has not been designated, the Rehab Officer shall select an appropriate location based on the site characteristics and designations below. This area should be cordoned off with one entry/exit point.

14.20.1 Rehabilitation Site Characteristics 1. It should be in a location that will provide physical rest by allowing the body to recuperate from the demands and hazards of the emergency operation or training evolution. 2. It should be far enough away from the scene that members may safely remove their turnout gear and SCBA and be afforded mental rest from the stress and pressure of the emergency operation or training evolution. 3 It should provide suitable protection from the prevailing environmental conditions. During hot weather, it should be in a cool, shaded area. During cold weather, it should be in a warm, dry area. 4. It should enable members to be free of exhaust fumes from apparatus, vehicles, or equipment. 5. It should be large enough to accommodate multiple crews, based on the size of the incident. 6. It should be easily accessible by EMS units. 7. It should allow prompt reentry back into the emergency operation upon recuperation. These personnel should move to personnel staging in anticipation of reentering the incident scene. 14.20.2 Rehabilitation Site Designations 1. A nearby garage, building lobby, or other structure. 2. Several floors below a fire in a high rise building. 3. A municipal bus. 4. Fire apparatus or other emergency vehicles at the scene or specifically called to the scene. 5. An open area in which a rehab area can be created using tarps, fans, etc

14.22 COMMAND ORGANIZATION The Command organization must develop at a pace that stay ahead of the tactical deployment of personnel and resources. In order for the IC to manage the incident, the ability to direct, control, and track the position and function of all operating companies must be in place. The basic configuration of Command includes three levels: 1. Strategic Level - Overall direction of the incident. 2. Tactical Level - Assigns operational objectives (Tactics or Tasks) 3. Task Level - Specific tasks assigned to companies, teams, or individuals. The Strategic Level involves the overall command of the incident. This involves setting the broad goals, or strategy, and having a view of the "big picture." Strategy is the "what" that has to be done to resolve the incident problems. Strategies are determined through the size-up of the situation that identifies the incident problems. The selection of the appropriate tactics to accomplish the strategies is fundamontal, Tactics are "how" the strategies will be accomplished. The IC must develop an Action Plan for the incident. The strategies and tactics are the basis of all Action Plans. The Action Plan should also cover all support activities needed during the operational period. The Action Plan defines not only the "what" and "how " but also the "who, where and when." The Action Plan is the basis for developing the Command organization, assigning all resources, and providing adequate support for the operating companies. 14.22.1 Strategic Level responsibilities include: 1. OFFENSIVE or DEFENSIVE operation. 2. Determining the appropriate strategies. 3. Establish overall incident objectives. 4. Setting priorities. 5. Develop an Incident Action Plan(IAP). 6. Obtaining and assigning resources. 7. Predicting outcomes and planning. 8. Assigning specific objectives to tactical level units.

14.22.2 The Tactical Level 1. Directs operational activities toward specific objectives. 2. Includes Branch, Division, and Group Supervisors. 3. Responsible for specific geographic or functional areas. 4. Has authority to make assignments and decisions within the boundaries of the operational plan and the specific area of responsibilities. 5. Has the responsibility for safety in the specific area of responsibility. 14.22.3 The Task Level The Task Level refers to those activities normally accomplished by individual companies or specific personnel. The Task Level is where the physical work is actually done. Task Level activities are routinely supervised by Company Officers. The accumulated achievements of Task Level activities should accomplish the tactics. The most basic Command structure combines all three levels. Example: The Company Officer on a single engine responds to a dumpster fire, determines the strategy and tactics, and supervises the crew doing the tasks. The Company Officer determines the strategy, selects the tactics, and supervises the tasks. The basic structure for a "routine" incident involving a small number of companies requires only two levels of the Command structure. The role of Command combines the strategic and tactical levels. Companies report directly to Command and operate at the task level. Example: Two engine companies and a ladder company respond to a structure fire. The first-in officer assumes Command and determines the strategy and tactics. Command assigns the first-in engine crew to report to the second-in Company Officer and assigns that officer to fire attack with primary search. The ladder company is assigned to ventilation. Command is performing the strategic and tactical levels and the other Company Officers are supervising the tasks. The Chief arrives and Command is transferred.

14.8.2 Search and Rescue It is standard procedure to conduct a primary search of all involved and exposed occupancies that can be entered. The Incident Commander must structure initial fire ground operations around the completion of the primary search. Primary search means that companies have quickly gone through all affected areas and have verified the removal or the safety of all occupants. Rescue efforts should be extended in the following order: 1. Most severely threatened 2. The largest number (groups) 3. The remainder of the fire area 4. The exposed areas. During rescue operations, firefighters are attempting to locate and remove threatened occupants. It is possible that all property may be sacrificed to accomplish this objective. This approach is life-safety oriented in a compressed and sometimes desperate time frame. Firefighters may have to fight fire to complete the primary search, but they must realize the incident is in the rescue mode until a "Primary Search Completed" report is transmitted. This would be transmitted stating the areas that were searched included in the message. Example: "Interior group to Command, primary search completed." As previously stated, each tactical priority has a benchmark for completion. The benchmark for rescue completion is "Primary Search Completed". With the announcement of "Primary Search Complete" the Incident Commander is only reporting the completion of the primary search. The Incident Commander is not issuing a guarantee that everyone is out. Primary search operations are often done under hot, smoky, dark, rushed, and sometimes desperate conditions. Although the primary search system is not always efficient and effective, it offers the best chance of getting the victims out of a dangerous situation. The possibility of overlooking victims always exists; and unfortunately, victims sometimes hide from the Firefighters when they hide from the fire.

14.9 PRIMARY AND SECONDARY SEARCH 14.9.1 Primary Search Primary Search should be conducted as soon as possible after arrival on scene. A quick search of all assigned rooms should be made. Upon completion, place a search marker on the doorknob with the primary side facing out (15-76). On apartments, after searching every room, one marker may be placed on the entrance door to the apartment. Once the Primary Search is completed the information must be conveyed to the Incident Commander so the next priority can be addressed. 14.9.2 Secondary Search A secondary search should be conducted when the incident is declared under control. At this time a thorough search should be conducted. After secondary search is completed, the search marker (15-77) should be reversed to indicate secondary search is completed. Sector Officers shall advise Command when primary and secondary searches are completed. The proper placements of search markers are as follows: 1. On completion of the primary search, place marker on doorknob from left to right. 2. After the secondary search is completed, remove the marker, turn it over and place on the doorknob from right-to-left. Note: This will ensure placement of the correct side out even when dark or smoky conditions exist.

14.34.2 Officers Responsibility A. Command 1) Establishment of command pest, following proper procedure 2) Radio Designation "Command" 3) Follow the appropriate Field Operational Guide (FOG) #1 from the MCI bag Determine the MC| level (1,2.3,4,5). 4) Remain in visible location 5) Establish Staging Area 6) Assign positions to perform essential functions: Triage, Treatment, and Transport 7) Advise Dispatch of number of victims and their categories 8) in large scale or complex MCls designate Medial branch 9) Page 35 of the Florida Regional Command EMS Protocols B. Medical Branch 1) Radio Designation "Medical" 2) Once established by COMMAND; Triage, Treatment, and Transport will report to Medical 3) Follow the appropriate FOG #2 4) Work directly with COMMAND 5) Assume positions have been assigned; Triage, Treatment, Transport Staging, and Rehab 6) Assure Medcom has been notified with exact number of victims and their categories C. Triage Officer (senior Paramedie of first arriving unit) 1) Radio designation, "TRIAGE" 2) Follow the appropriate (FOG) #3 3) Organize the Triage Team to begin initial triaging of victims, utilizing ST.A.R.T, triage system. Assemble walking wounded and uninjured to a safe area. 4) Advise COMMAND as soon as possible if there is a need for additional resources. 5) Coordinate with TREATMENT to ensure that priority victims are moved to the treatment area. 6) Ensure that all areas around the MCI scene have been checked for potential victims, walking wounded, ejected victims, ete: and that all victims have been triaged. 7) Supervise the triage or medical personnel, litter bearers, and medical examiner personnel. 8) Maintain security and control of the triage area, request law enforcement. 9) Report to Command upon completion of duties for further assignments D. Treatment Group Officer: Will coordinate and provide if necessary, on site medical care and re-triage victims. 1) Radio designation, "TREATMENT" 2) Follow (FOG) #4. 3) Complete a "Treatment Officer Log". 4) Consider assigning a "Documentation Aide" to assist with paperwork 5) Direct personnel to either begin treatment on the victims where they lay OR establish a centralized Treatment Area by using colored tarps. 6) All red tagged victims will be transported immediately as transport units become available. These victims should not be delayed in the treatment area. 7) Ensure that all victims are re-triaged through a secondary exam and the assessment is documented on the Triage tag (METTAG). 8) Considerations for a Treatment Area: a. Capable of accommodating the number of victims and equipment. b. Consider weather, safety, and the possibility of hazardous materials. c. Designate entrance and exit areas which are readily accessible (called funnel points). d. On large-scale incidents, divide treatment area into three distinct areas based on priority. Use colored tarps if available e. Inform COMMAND of primary and secondary treatment area locations (if needed). 9) Ensure that enough equipment is available to effectively treat all victims. 10)Communicate with TRANSPORT to coordinate proper transport of the appropriate victims. 11)Provide periodic status reports to command/medical. E. Transport Officer: Shall coordinate the transport of victims to hospitals. Reports to command or medical and maintains records related to victim identification, injuries, mode of transport, and destination. 1) Radio designation, "TRANSPORT" 2) Follow the appropriate (FOG) #5. 3) Maintain a "Victim Tally Log". 4) Assign a "Documentation Aide" to assist with paperwork. 5) Establish continuous contact with MedCom or MRCC1 a. Advise Medcom of victims overall complaints (ie. smoke inhalation. trauma, burns, Haz Mat exposure, etc.) b. Medcom will survey area hospitals to defermine their capabilities and capacities. c. Medcom will maintain Hospital Capabilty Sheet for the duration of the incident 6) Consult with TREATMENT and establish ambulance loading zone. Advise STAGING of location. 7) Arrange the transport of victims from the treatment area. Maintain "Hospital transportation Log", make sure METTAG is filled out appropriately. Keep one corner of tag. 8) communicate with the LZ Officer the number of victims to be transported a. Air transported victims should be assigned to distant hospitals, unless the victim's needs dictate otherwise (Trauma center, burn unit, etc.). 9) When units are prepared to transport, TRANSPORT will advise Medcom and supply them with the following information: a. The number of victims ready to be transported and. b. Their priority: (Red) "Immediate" (Yellow) "Delayed". (Green) "Ambulatory". c. Any special need victims; cardiac, burn, trauma, etc. NOTE: Ground transported victims should be assigned to hospitals on a rotating basis. 10) Once MedCom/(MRCC) receives the information from TRANSPORT, they will notify the appropriate hospital. **1 MRCC - Medical Resource Coordination Center - prime function is to maintain a status as to the number of victims and the hospital readiness status to accept victims, coordinate ambulance transportation and direct them to the appropriate pital during a disaster or other situation requiring a high demand of medical resources.

F. Staging Officer: 1) Radio designation, "STAGING". 2) Follow FOG #7. 3) Establish the location of a staging area and notify COMMAND, and direct any incoming units. 4) Maintain a "Unit Staging Log' #7A. 5) Ensure that all personnel stay with their vehicles unless otherwise directed by COMMAND a. If personnel are directed to assist in another function ensure that the keys to the vehicles stay with each vehicle. 6) Coordinate with TRANSPORT a location for ambulance loading zone and best route to zone. 7) Maintain a reserve of at least 2 BLS and 2 ALS transport vehicles, When the reserve is depleted request additional units through COMMAND, G. Medical Supply Coordinator: Reports to Medical and is responsible for acquiring and maintaining control of all medical equipment and supplies. 1) Radio designation: SUPPLY. Follow FOG #6 2) Assure necessary equipment is available on the transporting vehicle. 3) Provide an inventory of medical supplies at the Staging Area for use on scene (e.g. Broward County has 4 MCI supply trailers and Region 7 has Large MCI Supply Trailer available during a large scale MCI). H. Rehabilitation Officer: 1) Radio designation "REHAB". 2) Follow FOG #8. 3) Establish rehab area in a quiet, cool place if possible. 4) Provide area where food and fluids can be replenished. 5) Fill out Medical Surveillance Data sheet on all personnel and maintain a Rehab Officer Log. 6) Provide medical evaluation on each rescuer; watch for red flag parameters (see pg. 28). 7) After personnel have been released from the Rehab Area they are to report to COMMAND. 14.34.3 Documentation A. The Incident Commander will, at the completion of the incident, coordinate the gathering of all pertinent documentation. B. A Post Incident Analysis (PIA) will be completed.

Documentation Unit - Functional unit within the Planning Section responsible for recording/protecting all documents relevant to an incident. Emergency Traffic - A priority message that is immediately transmitted to all-operating companies, sectors, etc. Engine Company - A fire department pumper with a compliment of Firefighters that carries ground ladders, water, hose, fire/rescue equipment and appliances. Evacuation - The immediate orderly withdrawal of all fire crews Evacuation Signal- A single long blast on the air horn and a radio announcement. Exposures - People, property and/or structures which are threatened. internally or externally, by the existing emergency and which may require immediate protection to prevent injury, loss of life or further property damage. Facilities Unit - Functional unit within the Support branch of the Logistics Section responsible for providing fixed facilities at an incident, including Base, feeding areas, sanitary facilities, and a formal Command Post. Finance Section - The section of the General Staff directly responsible to the IC for all costs and financial considerations of the incident. Fire Apparatus - A motor driven fire truck of any variety or a group of fire trucks. Fire Extinquished - Standard term used to designate that the fire has been completely extinguished. Fire Under Control - When the advancement of fire has been halted. Fire Ground Perimeter - An imaginary line that encloses the space where the fire situation creates a potential hazard to personnel. Fire Line - Marks the area reserved for the fire department to operate without having to deal with spectators, traffic, and other associated problems. Food Unit - Functional unit within the Service Branch of the Logistics Section responsible for providing meals to personnel involved in an incident.

Freelancing - Person or persons who are not carrying out Command's decisions in a coordinated effort. Persons who are not under the direct supervision of an Officer. General Staff - The collective sections of COMMAND, OPERATIONS, PLANS, LOGISTICS, and FINANCE. Group - That organizational level having responsibility for a specific functional assignment. This functional level falls between DIVISION and CREWS, TASK FORCES, STRIKE TEAMS, and SINGLE RESOURCES. Heavy Rescue - A piece of fire apparatus which is used for hazardous materials and extrication incidents that has specialized equipment including an air compressor and lighting. Incident Action Plans - General control objectives reflecting the overall incident strategy and specific action plans for the next operational period. Action plans identify the problem/s (strategies), the solution/s (tactics), and the tactical operations (who & when). Incident Commander (IC) - The individual assuming, and having responsibility for, the management of all incident activities Leader - Functional title of any individual in-charge of a Crew, Task Force, Strike Team, or functional unit. Level I Staging - All companies except 1st in engine company and 1st in rescue company will stage in the direction of travel, if possible uncommitted, approximately one block from the incident scene (whenever possible, second due engine companies will stage at a hydrant). Level II Staging - Used for large, complex, or lengthy operations. Additional companies are staged together in a specific location under the command of a Staging Officer. Companies may be called to the fire grounds from staging with or without their apparatus. Liaison Officer - Point of contact for assisting or coordinating agencies. Lobby Control - A high-rise logistics function responsible to coordinate the movement of resources between Base and Staging. Also responsible for control of elevator and air handling systems.

PURPOSE The Hollywood Fire Rescue and Beach Safety Department responds to a wide range of emergency incidents. These Guidelines identify procedures that can be employed in establishing incident command and managing emergency incidents These Guidelines provide for the effective management of personnel and resources, as well as, provide for the safety and welfare of personnel. They also establish procedures for the implementation of all components of the Incident Command System (ICS). INCIDENT SAFETY The intent of the Incident Command System (ICS) is to minimize confusion and congestion at the scene, and to limit the number of personnel exposed to hazards; while protecting lives and preserving property. The incident commander (IC) should be particularly alert to control the activities of off-duty personnel on the scene who may wish to assist. Specific areas should be designated and cordoned off to prevent personnel from wandering. Some of these areas may include Rehabilitation, Medical, Command Post, and Staging. The Incident Commander shall utilize all available resources that would upgrade the level of safety for firefighters operating at an incident. INCIDENT PERIMETER The fire ground incident perimeter is defined by Fire Department Operations as the boundary around the incident that has been determined to be hazardous by safety considerations according to the foreseeable hazards of the particular incident. It is one of the continuing responsibilities of Command to establish, enforce, and review this safety perimeter and make changes as necessary. All personnel entering the fire ground or incident perimeter shall: A. Wear protective clothing, including S.C.B.A.s B. Have crew intact C. Be assigned to a specific task Note: if personnel have not been assigned to a division/group, or do not have a necessary staff function to perform, they must stay in the staging area awaiting assignment.

14.0 INCIDENT COMMAND 14.1 GENERAL OPERATING GUIDELINES 14.1.1 Command Structure -The Incident Commander (IC) is required to develop an organizational structure to manage the incident. The size and complexity of the organizational structure will be determined by the type and scope of the emergency. -The Incident Command System (ICS) is the basic system to be used on any size or type of incident. The ICS is a toolbox. Staff only utilizes those functions necessary for the management of the incident. Do not over manage or under manage your resources. -The ICS is designed to allow for the adequate and effective supervision of resources and to prevent any one manager from becoming "overwhelmed by too many subordinate personnel. 14.2 COMMAND GUIDELINES These Guidelines are designed to: 1. Fix the responsibility for Command on a specific individual through a standard identification system, depending on the arrival sequence of members, companies, and chief officers. 2. Ensure that a strong, direct, and visible Command will be established from the onset of the incident. 3. Establish an effective incident organization defining the activities and responsibilities assigned to the Incident Commander and to other individuals operating within the Incident Command System. 4. Provide a system to process information to support incident management, planning, and decision making. 5. Provide a system for the orderly transfer of Command to subsequent arriving officers. 6. Limit the span of control (3 to 7 personnel, 5 being optimal). 7. Provide for the orderly de-escalation of personnel and equipment when the incident has been rendered safe. Protective breathing apparatus shall be worn by all members entering the incident perimeter at all alarms of fire and/or incidents where toxic or explosive vapors/gases exist, where possible oxygen deficient enclosures exist, or when Company Officers deem S.C.B.A. is warranted. By accepted practice, breathing apparatus should be donned prior to leaving the apparatus to participate in any fire suppression activity. Conditions on the fire ground change rapidly and sometimes without warning. If these changes take place and the members are not prepared, it may be too late to return to the fire apparatus for S.C.B.A. (i.e., a change in the wind direction, undetected rescue at the rear of the building, firefighters trapped or down during operations needing extrication from the fire building rapidly, etc.).

14.10 PROPERTY CONSERVATION It is standard procedure to commit whatever fire ground resources are required to keep property loss to an absolute minimum. When basic fire control has been achieved, Command must commit and direct companies into "Stop Loss" activities. In cases where there is an overlapping need for both fire control and salvage to be performed simultaneously and where initial alarm companies are involved in firefighting and salvage remains undone, Command should call for additional alarms and commit additional companies to salvage activities. Effective property conservation activities require the same command functions and aggressive actions as rescue and fire control. These actions produce more positive public relations than any fire ground activity except saving lives. Four objectives should be considered during property conservation operations. These are: 1. Stopping additional loss 2. Verifying that the fire is completely extinguished 3. Preserving fire scene evidence in order to determine the point of origin and possible fire cause 4. Returning the occupancy to use when possible Command should monitor the welfare of personnel during long overhaul operations. Ignoring fatigue may result in sloppy and careless operations that could result in needless injuries, 14.11 FIRST IN FIRST OUT POLICY When releasing units Command should consider the following: 1. What is the condition of the first arriving companies? 2. Can they continue to work until the incident is terminated? In cases where the "first in" companies have worked very hard it is better to send them back first, even if mutual aid companies must be retained longer. The Incident Commander must always consider what effect weather conditions will have on personnel. In conditions of extreme heat and extremely high or low humidity, firefighters must be relieved more often. Liquids, food, and shelter must be provided during long term incidents. Whenever possible utilize the "first in first out" policy for relieving personnel. During overhaul, cleanup or demobilization periods, personnel may become lax and disregard proper safety procedures. The Safety Officer position should be maintained until the Incident Commandor declares the incident has been completed. If gas-monitoring equipment is available the scene should be checked for toxic gases or carbon monoxide. Often carbon monoxide levels are highest during cleanup and personnel During overhaul, cleanup or demobilization periods, personnel may become lax and disregard proper safety procedures. The Safety Officer position should be maintained until the Incident Commander declares the incident has been completed. If gas- monitoring equipment is available the scene should be checked for toxic gases or carbon monoxide. Often carbon monoxide levels are highest during cleanup and personnel must wear all personal protection required by the Incident Commander, including S.C.B.A. while working in contaminated areas or areas which have not been cleared by the Safety Officer. If a fire building must be assessed for structural stability and/or safety, outside help from other agencies should be obtained. The City's Building Department has personnel available for this purpose. The area must be kept secure for both safety considerations and to maintain the integrity of evidence if there is to be an investigation. If an investigation is to be conducted, Fire Department or police personnel must remain on scene until scene investigation is completed. If continuous occupancy on the scene is not maintained, any gathered evidence may not be admissible in court, or a search warrant will be required to return to the scene If Fire Department personnel leave the scene, returning later with a search warrant, any evidence will be questionable in court. Law Enforcement Officers should be utilized as much as possible to secure the incident site during demobilization.

14.12 POST INCIDENT ANALYSIS Post Incident Analysis (PIA) is the reconstruction of an incident to assess the chain of events that took place, the methods used and the actual results of the operation. PIA should be performed AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. 14.12.1 Purpose of Post Incident Analysis The PIA's main purpose is to reinforce personnel actions and Department guidelines that have been effective and to give management insight into how the effectiveness of the Department's operation could be improved. When properly conducted, all the facts, both positive and negative will be addressed and analyzed. 14.12.2 Benefits of Post Incident Analysis The following are a few examples of benefits that could be derived from a well-organized PIA: 1. A PIA is an organized approach to learn from every incident. By recording and comparing all important facts about an incident, we can detect any problem areas, negative trends, etc., and this information can be used to effect necessary changes in procedures. Recurring problems could be overlooked and the mistakes may be repeated if records are not kept. It also helps to identify and reinforce effective Departmental guidelines. 2. The use of tools and equipment can be evaluated and changed to be more effective. 3. Problems with hose lays can be identified and solutions developed. 4. Evaluation and upgrading of Department safety procedures. By reviewing problems that may have occurred concerning S.C.B.A., ladders, hose, etc., we can develop new policies to reflect safer operations. 5. Information gained from PIA's can be shared with other fire departments through association meetings and informal discussions. Nationally, information can be shared through articles in trade magazines, National Fire Academy classes, and etc. The benefits of sharing information will be that we, as individuals and departments, will not be required to learn by our own mistakes, but rather from the experiences of others.

14.20.3 Rehab Site Supplies The Rehab Officer shall secure all necessary resources required to adequatery staff and supply the Rehabilitation Area. The supplies should include the items listed below 1. Fluids - water, activity beverages, oral electrolyte solutions, and ice 2. Food 3. Other - awnings, fans, tarps, smoke ejectors, extra equipment, floodlights ,blankets and towels, traffic cones and fire line tape (to identify the entrance and exit of the Rehabilitation Area). A critical factor in the prevention of heat injury is the maintenance of water and electrolytes. Water must be replaced during exercise periods and at emergency incidents. During heat stress, the member should consume at least one quart of water per hour. The rehydration solution should be a 50/50 mixture of water and a commercially prepared activity beverage and administered at about 400F Rehydration is important even during cold weather operations where, despite the outside temperature, heat stress may occur during firefighting or other strenuous activity when protective equipment is worn. Alcohol and caffeine beverages should be avoided before and during heat stress because both interfere with the body's water conservation mechanisms. Carbonated beverages should also be avoided The department shall provide food at the scene of an extended incident when units are engaged for three or more hours. A cup of soup, broth, or stew is highly recommended because it is digested much faster than sandwiches and fast food products. In addition, foods such as apples, oranges, and bananas provide supplemental forms of energy replacement. Fatty and/or salty foods should be avoided Thirty (30) minutes of work time, is recommended as an acceptable level prior to mandatory rehabilitation. Members shall rehydrate (at least eight ounces) while SCBA cylinders are being changed. Firefighters having worked for one 45 minute rated bottle, or 30 minutes work time. shall be immediately placed in the rehabilitation area for rest and evaluation. In all cases, the objective evaluation of a member's fatigue level shall be the criteria for rehab time Rest shall not be less than ten minutes and may exceed an hour as determined by the Rehab Officer. Fresh crews, or crews released from the Rehabilitation Section, shall be available in the Staging Area to ensure that fatigued members are not required to return to duty before they are rested, evaluated, and released by the Rehab Officer. Personnel in the staging area shall be prepared to re-enter the incident operation immediately upon notification by the Incident Commander or Section Officer.

14.20.4 Treatment of Personnel in Rehab An air-conditioned environment is acceptable after a cool-down period at ambient temperature with sufficient air movement. Certain drugs impair the body's ability to sweat and extreme caution must be exercised if the member has taken antihistamines, such as Actifed or Benadryl, or has taken diuretics or stimulants. EMS personnel shall evaluate vital signs, examine members, and make proper disposition (return to duty, continued rehabilitation, or medical treatment and transport to medical facility). Continued rehabilitation should consist of additional monitoring of vital signs, providing rest, and providing fluids for rehydration. Heart Rate and Temperature - The heart rate should be measured for 30 seconds as early as possible in the rest period. If the member's temperature is above 100.6 F , he/she should not be permitted to wear protective equipment. If it is at or below 100.6 F and the heart rate remains above 110 beats per minute, rehabilitation time should be increased. If the heart rate is less than 110 beats per minute, the chance of heat stress is negligible. Members assigned to the Rehabilitation Section shall enter and exit the Rehabilitation Area as a crew. Crews shall not leave the Rehabilitation Section until authorized to do so by the Rehab Officer.

14.21 TRANSFER OF COMMAND Command is transferred to improve the quality of the command organization. The following transfer of command procedure shall be used: -The first arriving department member will assume Command, provided Command is not "passed" (see Guideline 14.13.3). -If the first arriving IC is not an officer, then the first arriving Company Officer will assume Command after the Transfer of Command procedures have been completed. (This is a rare occurrence and may be the result of someone traveling alone in a vehicle and coming upon an incident). -The first arriving Chief Officer shall assume Command of any incident that is still escalating. Later arriving, higher ranking, Chief Officers may choose to assume Command, or assume an advisor role. The officer assuming Command will communicate with the person being relieved. Face-to-face communications are preferred, however, this may be done by radio if a face- to-face meeting cannot be accomplished. The person being relieved will brief the officer assuming Command on the following areas: 1. Incident conditions (e.g., fire location, type of spill or release, number of patients, etc.). 2. The incident action plan. 3. What progress has been made towards completion of the tactical objectives? 4. Safety considerations. 5. Deployment and assignment of operating companies and personnel. 6. Need for additional resources. 7. The tactical worksheet shall be reviewed. The assumption of Command by the ranking officer will be announced on the radio. The person being relieved will be reassigned by the new IC.

14.21.1 General Considerations Use additional officers as needed to strengthen the command organization. Incident scene communications from tactical level officers should be limited to the following: 1. Reports that the assignment given has been completed. 2. Requests for additional resources or for the release of unneeded resources. 3. Reports that the assignment cannot be completed and why. 4. Any special information, e.g., safety matters, collapses, hazardous materials found, etc. A higher ranking officer who wants to change the management of an incident, must be on the scene and assume command. Anyone can effect a change in incident management in extreme situations relating to safety by advising Command to initiate corrective action.

14.22.4 Branches, Divisions, and Groups (Branches: See Section 14.29.2) The incident management system was developed to handle all size incidents from single family dwellings to major conflagrations. The Hollywood Fire Rescue and Beach Safety Department will use the term "Division or Group" under most conditions. The IC shall make division and group assignments based on the following: -When the incident will involve a number of companies or crews. Command should always start multiple company operations at the Division level. -The first Company Officer assigned to perform a tactic in a geographic area is designated a Division, such as, Interior Division. -The first Company Officer who is assigned to perform a tactical function will be designated as a Group, such as, Ventilation Group. When establishing a Division or Group, the IC will indicate: 1. The tactical objective(s) to be accomplished. 2. The Division or Group radio designation. 3. The identity of the resources assigned to the Division or Group NOTE: Sectoring is the act of dividing an incident into manageable segments. There are two (2) methods of sectoring. They are: 1.Geographic - The dividing of areas through the use of Divisions. 2. Functional - The dividing of the incident by specific tasks to be accomplished through the use of Groups or individuals.

14.22.5 Division A Division is an organizational level having responsibility for operations within a defined geographic area. The Division is an organizational level between the Branch and the Group. The system for geographically dividing an incident scene is used with the Division position. An incident scene will be divided up as follows: -Front of building/area - side A, moving clockwise, the left side is side B, the rear, side C, and the right side, D. -Each floor would be a division; e.g. first floor is division one, fifth division is the fifth (5th) floor, etc. Interior floor areas can be divided into A, B, C, and D. -Division 5 "A" would be the front quarter on the fifth floor, then proceeding clockwise by quarters, to division 5B, etc. -Outside exposures would be labeled depending on the side it is located on such as "Exposure B". This would be the first exposure on side B.

14.22.6 Group Group is an organizational level responsible for a specified functional assignment at an incident. The Group is an organizational level between the Division and the Single Resource, Task Force, and Strike Team. Group Supervisors MUST coordinate their actions with any Division Supervisors in whose geographic area they intend to operate in BEFORE starting those operations. 14.22.7 Division and Group Supervisor Requirements Division and Group Supervisors must be in a position to directly supervise and monitor operations. Division and Group Supervisors are responsible for and in control of all assigned functions within their division or group. Each Division and Group Supervisor will: 1. Complete objectives assigned. 2. Account for all assigned personnel. 3. Ensure that operations are conducted safely. 4. Monitor work progress. 5. Redirect activities within their division or group as necessary. 6. Immediately advise their supervisor of significant changes involving the inability to complete the objective, hazardous conditions, accidents, structural collapse. etc. 7. Coordinate actions with other related activities and adjacent supervisors. 8. Monitor the welfare of assigned personnel. 9. Request additional resources and release unneeded resources as required 10. Provide their supervisor with essential and frequent progress reports. 11. Reallocate resources within the Division or Group as required 12. Use the regular Transfer of Command procedures when the Division or Group Supervisor is relieved

14.22.8 General Operational Considerations Appropriate span-of-control is considered 3 to 7 personnel, with 5 being optimum. Divisions and Groups reduce the span-of-control to a more manageable number. Division and Group delegations allow the IC to communicate with these organizational levels rather than with multiple Company Officers. The Division or Group Supervisor is responsible for he details and execution of their part of the Action Plan. They are responsible for the deployment of the resources at their disposal to accomplish the tactical objectives assigned. They are responsible to communicate their needs and progress to their immediate supervisor in the ICS. When properly instituted, overall radio traffic will be reduced. Face-to-face communications should be established between supervisors and their single resources To promote safety, the Division and Group Supervisors must maintain effective personal or radio communications with all their assigned company, crew, strike team, or task force leaders. They must also constantly monitor all hazardous situations and risks to personnel, and take appropriate action to ensure that subordinates are operating in a safe and effective manner. 14.22.9 Division, Group, and Branch Safety The safety of the incident personnel represents the major reason for dividing an incident into manageable areas and task responsibilities. Branch, Division, and Group Officers must have the capability of communicating with the personnel in their sector so control of both the position and function of working companies can be maintained Command should begin to assign Branches, Divisions, and Groups when any of the following occur: 1. When a situation develops which will eventually involve a number of companies or functions beyond an effective span of control (Span of Control in emergency situations should be limited to between 3 and 7 depending on the complexity of the situation). In such cases, early recognition and Branch, Division, or Group assignments are critical. 2. When Command can no longer cope with the number of companies or functions involved in the operation. 3. When companies are involved in complex interior operations. 4. When companies are operating from lactical positions over which Command has little or no control or visual contact Example: Companies operating on different sides of a building 5. When the situation is such that close company control is required (le structural conditions, hazardous materials, heavy fire load, marginal offensive situations, etc.) If reconnaissance crews or Branch, Division, or Group Officers observe or learn of hidden hazards while performing their tasks (ie, live wires down, large uncovered holes, unstable objects, etc.), they should notify Command immediately Example: "Division C to Command, reporting live wires down in the rear of the building." Example: "Command to communications, advise all companies that we have live wires down on side C of the building in the alley" Communications between elements within a Division or Group should be done face-to-face wherever possible. When any new resource is assigned to a Division or Group, that resource leader will be told to which Division or Group they are being assigned along with the Supervisor's name. The person making the assignment will notify the Division or Group Supervisor of the identity of the new resource. Division and Group Supervisors will ensure an orderly and thorough reassignment of companies to Rehab. Companies must report to Rehab intact to facilitate accountability. 14.22.10 Strike Team, Task Force, & Single Resource 1. Task Force - A functional element of up to five (5) units of mixed type under a common communications designation and a common leader 2. Strike Team - A functional element of up to five (5) units of the same type and under a common communications designation and a common leader 3. Single Resource - An individual company or crew.

14.23 UNIFIED COMMAND When more than one agency in a single jurisdiction or more than one jurisdiction has a legal responsibility for the mitigation of the incident, Unfied Command will be established All agencies with legal responsibility for the incident outcome will influence the Strategy and Tactics that are determined and selected. The Operations Section Chief has the responsibility to implement the Action Plan The Operations Section Chief should be chosen from one of he agencies represented in the Unified Command Post Possible Selection Criteria: 1. Basis of greatest jurisdictional involvement 2. Number of resources involved 3. Existing statutory authority 4. Mutual knowledge of the individual's qualifications. The Operations Section Chief may select representatives of the other agencies to act as Deputy Operations Chiefs to assist in implementing the Action Plan. 14.24 STAGING The objective of the Staging Procedure is lo provide a standard system of placement for responding apparatus, personnel, and equipment prior lo tactical assignments. Effective utilization of this procedure places uncommitted apparatus in a location close to the immediate scene to facilitate more effective assignment by Command and to allow Command to formulate and implement a plan without undue confusion and pressure. Command and administrative vehicles will not stage on arrival at an incident. These vehicles will be parked in a location where they will not restrict access to the scene. Staging will involve two levels: Level I and Level II. 14.24.1 Level I Staging Level I Staging will require all companies, except 1st in Engine and Rescue companies, to stage in their direction of travel. If possible second due Engine Companies should stage at a hydrant, uncommitted, approximately one block from the scene until assigned by Command.Command is then responsible for positioning units on the scene, except when S.OP.'s dictate otherwise, i.e., high rise fires. Haz-mat incidents, etc. Staged Companies, with crews intact, will report their positions by announcing their company designation and compass direction from the incident scene. Example: "Engine 31 on scene 1021 N. 60 Ave., staging south at a hydrant 60th Ave and Johnson Street." Companies should expect to receive an immediate acknowledgment from Fire Dispatch. The time of arrival at "Level I Staging" will be recorded as the arrival "on scene" time for a company. After receiving acknowledgment of arrival from Fire Dispatch, the Company Officer should switch to the designated tactical talk group and make sure that Command is aware of the company's location and arrival. If Command fails to acknowledge a company's arrival during this period, the Company Officer should call Command and confirm arrival and staged location.

14.24.2 Level II Staging Level II staging will relate to large, intricate type situations requiring a nearby reserve of companies which involve formal staging in an area designated by Command. The staging area should be away from the Command Post and away from the emergency scene. When initiating Level II staging, Command must designate the approximate location of the staging area. Companies arriving in Level II staging will announce their arrival on the main dispatch talk group and expect to receive an acknowledgement of arrival from Fire Dispatch only. These companies should not expect to receive an acknowledgment from Command. They will then change their radios to the designated tactical talk group The Company Officer(s) should report in person to the staging Officer if one has been designated If Command did not assign a staging Officer, then the first Company Officer at Level II staging area will assume the responsibility of the Staging Officer and notify Command. The staging officers engine will be the only Engine in the staging area with its emergency lights on (unless failure to employ emergency lights will cause a traffic hazard). All Companies in Level II staging will stand by with their crews intact (full bunker gear on, handlight, forcible entry tools. high-rise packs, if appropriate, and S.C.B.A.'s readily available). When resources are needed from the Level I staging area, Command will contact "Staging" (Staging Officer). Command should be very specific regarding the resource needed such as vehicle type, number of personnel, or specialized equipment. When crews leave the staging area they should know where they are going, whom to report to, what equipment to bring, and what they will be expected to do. Example: Face-to-face, when possible, between the Staging Officer and the Company Officer. "Engine 31 take your personnel with forcible entry tools and report to Side B Division Officer."

14.24.3 Staging Branch Command may designate a Staging Officer who will be responsible for communications with Command and for the coordination of all activities in the staging area. The radio designation for the Staging Branch Officer will be "Staging" 14.24.4 Staging Officer Guidelines 1. Coordinate with the Police Department to block streets, intersections, and other access areas required for the staging area. 2. Ensure that all apparatus are parked in an appropriate manner to facilitate quick departure to the emergency scene. 3. Maintain a log of companies available in the staging area and inventory all specialized equipment that might be required at the scene, i.e., extrication equipment, chain saws, portable pump, etc. Note: This inventory log is especially important when mutual aid companies are reporting to Level I staging and equipment inventories are unknown 4. Review with Command what resources must be maintained in the staging area and coordinate the request for these resources with Fire Dispatch. 5. Assume a position that is visible and accessible to incoming and staged companies. Every effort will be made to keep at least one Engine, one Aerial and one Rescue company in staging at all times during a Level Il incident. At least one firefighting team will have all protective gear and S.C.B.A on, and ready to respond quickly should the need arise 14.25 MASS CASUALTY INCIDENTS Mass casualty procedures are addressed in the appendices of this chapter. This appendix is a portion (addressing fire and emergency medical concerns) of the Mass Casualty Incident procedures adopted by Broward County administration 14.26 EXPANDING THE ORGANIZATION The transition from the initial response lo a major incident organization will be evolutionary, and positions will be filled as the corresponding tasks require. The Operations, Planning, and Logistics Section Chiefs and the Company Officer positions in Planning and Logistics will be staffed only when the corresponding functions are required for effective incident management. The IC should be cognizant of the probable expansion of the organization based on the complexities and the number of resources required for control. The first command officer to arrive at an incident that has started as a complex incident and one that will obviously grow to a resource intensive situation must start thinking about expanding the organization to a higher level. The staffing of the Section Chief functions will greatly improve the ability of Command to effectively manage the operation by allowing for the delegation of the responsibilities of an entire Section (Planning, Logistics, Finance/Administrative) to others.

14.27 RAPID INTERVENTION TEAM (RIT) 14.27.1 Recommended Procedures 1. The Incident Commander at the scene of a working fire, or smoke filled structure, shall, as soon as possible, assign a minimum of two firefighting personnel to fulfill the role of Rapid Intervention Team (RIT). If necessary, additional units should be summoned to the scene to accomplish this objective. Unless the fire is in an incipient stage, or the rescue of trapped occupants is necessary, incident commanders should endeavor to have a RIT team in place prior to the commencement of interior firefighting operations. 2. The RIT team shall equip themselves with the following minimum equipment: a. Full bunker gear, including hoods and firefighting gloves. b. A complete SCBA with armed PASS device. c. Two-way communications with the Incident Commander d. Halligan tool, flat head ax, and a flashlight for each member. e. One complete RIT Bag. On larger buildings consider a 300 foot line. 14.27.2 RIT Stand-by 1. The RIT team shall report to the command post unless otherwise directed by the Incident Commander. Consider placing the RIT team close to the building under certain circumstances (ICP is a long distance from the building). 2. If conditions permit, the Incident Commander or designee should complete a quick 360 degree size-up of the structure, paying special attention to alternate exits, securing utilities, and other considerations that command may utilize if the RIT team is deployed. 3. While in the stand-by mode, the RIT team should diligently monitor the fire-ground operating channel to remain aware of conditions and potential problems. The RIT team shall notify command, via the radio, any time they leave the pre-designated staging area. There is to be no freelancing. 14.27.3 IT Team Deployment 1. Upon being notified that a firefighter(s) is lost, missing, or trapped, the Incident Commander shall have Dispatch initiate the emergency alert tone (14.5.7) and clear the radio channel of all radio traffic. The Incident Commander should deploy the RIT team if conditions permit, and shall attempt to ascertain the location/condition of the endangered crew. If necessary, all other normal fire-ground communications may be switched to another channel to permit the RIT team and endangered crew to communicate freely. 2. Upon deployment, the RIT team shall notify Command of the specific entrance they are taking into the structure. Additionally, the RIT team shall secure a lifeline to the outside, and remain together at all times. The RIT team shall assess, and if necessary, communicate to Command any additional resources needed, such as hose-line protection, or extrication/forcible entry equipment. 3. Upon deployment of the RIT team, the Incident Commander should immediately assign a minimum of two firefighting personnel to assume the role of secondary (back up) RIT team to stand-by outside the building. This RIT team should be a non-fatigued crew. The goal is to have at least a minimum of two "ready to go" personnel standing by outside the hazard zone anytime personnel (including other IT teams) are operating inside the hazard zone. 14.27.4 RIT Termination Command should continue to staff a RIT team throughout the mitigation phase, until the possibility of danger to working crews has been eliminated.

14.28.7 Accountability Group As the incident escalates to the level that Accountability Officers are assigned, Command should implement an Accountability Group to Coordinate Accountability Officers. The Accountably Group Officer Will be assigned to Logistics and will operate on the assigned logistics radio talk group The Accountabilly Group Officer may be located at the Command Post The Accountability Group Officers responsibilities include a. Develop and implement a plan designed to track and account for all b. personnel working in the Hazard Zone Ensure that Accountability Officers are implemented in each Division/Group as necessary. c. Request and manage group resources as needed. Provide progress reports to command e. Initiate PAR's upon benchmarks or as needed 14.28.8 Shift Change Arriving crews will be responsible for immediately updating the company PASSPORT after morning roll call. Departing crew members will remove their name tag from the passport. Company Officers are responsible for ensuring that PASSPORTS always remain current. Passports must reflect only those members presently assigned to the company and only those members about to enter the hazard zone. If a member replaces another member during the shift this guideline shall also apply 14.28.9 Rules of Thumb PASSPORT implementation should consider the following rules of thumb: 1. PASSPORTS never enter the hazard zone. 2. PASSPORTS must be maintained at the point of entry to the hazard zone. 3. PASSPORTS must reflect only those personnel presently in the hazard zone. 4. Crews must turn in their PASSPORTS upon entering and must retrieve their PASSPORTS upon exit from the hazard zone.

14.28.10 Passport Implementation - The Incident Implementation of the PASSPORT system will occur at any incident that requires the use of the SCBA The objective of the PASSPORT system is always to have the crew PASSPORTS at the point of entry, and that they be accurate to reflect only those members entering the hazard zone. For those situations where it is not clear-cut as to when and where to turn in the PASSPORT, crews should consider the above-cited objective for their direction. For single company incidents, the PASSPORT remains on the apparatus dash. The engineer will assume accountability responsibilities. For first alarm assignments PASSPORTS will be given to Division/Group Officer, if possible, or collected by the Division/Group Officer when time permits. For greater than first alarm and/or mutual aid the PASSPORT system will function as follows: The first engine to each geographic side of the incident becomes the initial accountability location for all later arriving companies to that side of the incident. The PASSPORT of the first engine to each geographic side of the incident will remain attached to the dash. The driver becomes the initial Accountability Officer until the Division/Group or Accountability Officer who assumes accountability responsibilities collects PASSPORTS later in the incident. The driver of the first engine (accountability location) will collect the PASSPORTS from these additional companies, time permitting, and mount them on the status board at the accountability location. Any crew assigned to a task must deliver their PASSPORTS to the accountability engine and place the PASSPORTS on the status board. The status board (or Velcro strips) will always be located on the inside panel of the driver's door. Any company assigned to a Division/Group will deliver the PASSPORT to the Division/Group Officer, or a designated. Accountability Officer (designated by the Division/Group Officer or Command). As the incident escalates and Division/Group Officers and/or Accountability Officers are assigned, all PASSPORTS will be delivered to these officers prior to entry into the hazard zone. Where the Division/Group Officer is operating within the hazard zone, PASSPORTS must remain outside the zone with a designated Accountability Officer (i.e., initial driver or staff officer) serving as an Accountability Officer. A Division/Group Officer operating within the hazard zone will NOT have PASSPORT accountability responsibilities. Command must maintain an awareness of which engine companies are serving as accountability locations, and provide this information to companies being assigned to geographic sides of the incident (Division/Group).

14.28.11 Points of Entry Control PASSPORTS will remain with the designated Accountability Officer at the "point of entry to the hazard zone. Upon entry; crews will tum in their PASSPORT Upon exit, the crew must retrieve their PASSPORTS. The accountability status board will contain all of the PASSPORTS of those crews in the hazard zone. Crews exiting at a different location other than the original point of entry must immediately notify their Division/Group Officer and/or Accountability Officer. The PASSPORT must be retrieved Where physical distance/barriers prevent easy retrieval of the PASSPORT, and where the crew is being reassigned to another area, a "make-up" PASSPORT must be assembled Crewmembers will provide the new Division/Group Officer with another name tag Where another "make-up" Passport is not available. the individual name tags will be placed on the accountability status board. The original Division/Group Officer and/or Accountability Officer must be made aware of the change 14.28.12 Multi-Story/High Rise 1. Multi-story or high-rise incidents present only a minor modification in the standard approach to PASSPORT accountability. The first engine to each geographic side of the incident remains the accountability location. Companies will deliver their PASSPORTS to the initial engine and place the PASSPORTS on the status board of the accountability engine. Once a lobby division Is established, all crews reporting to the building will deliver their PASSPORTS to the lobby division. 2. The lobby division will be responsible for collecting the PASSPORTS of the initial companies as soon as possible (incoming crews reporting to the building may be used to pick them up). Once the Accountability Group is established, the Accountability Group Officer will collect the PASSPORTS of all crews assigned to fire combat positions. The Accountability Group officer will assign Accountability Officers at each point of entry to stairwells, etc. PASSPORTS of crews assigned to the lobby division or any support Division/Groups within the building (non-hazard zone crews) will be maintained by the Division/Group Officers.

14.28.13 Terminating the Passport System PASSPORT accountability will be maintained until a report of "Fire under control" is transmitted, at which time a PAR for all crews must be obtained. Command will determine at that time, based on the situation and risk, as to whether to continue with the PASSPORT system. If visibility is still impaired or a significant hazardous condition still exists, command may choose to extend the PASSPORT system further. Upon termination and release from the incident, company officers and crewmembers will ensure that the PASSPORT is returned to the dash of the apparatus and that the PASSPORT is up-to-date.

14.28 PERSONNEL ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM 14.28.1 Purpose This procedure identifies a system of incident site firefighter accountability. The purpose is to account for all firefighters, at any given time, within a small geographical area within the "hazard zone" of an incident. Use of the system will provide enhanced personal safety for the individual firefighters and will provide a means to track and account for all personnel working in the hazard zone. The hazard zone will be defined as any area that requires an SCBA or in which a firefighter is at risk of becoming lost, trapped, or injured by the environment or structure. This would include entering a structure reported to be on fire, operating in close proximity to the structure during exterior operations, confined space or trench rescue, the hot zone at a Haz-mat incident, etc. 14.28.2 Accountability Accountability involves a personal commitment to work within the safety system at an incident. Command will always be responsible for including accountability as an element of strategy and attack planning, and must consider and react to any barriers to effective accountability. Division/Group Officers will always maintain an accurate tracking and awareness of crews assigned to them. This will require the Division/Group officer to be in his/her assigned area and maintaining close supervision of crews assigned to them. All personnel shall familiarize themselves with this section. All officers will be responsible for giving their personnel a class on this section. All crews will work for Command or Division/Groups - no "Free-lancing". Crews arriving on scene should remain intact. minimum crew size will be considered two members and two radios. A Lieutenant or other higher ranking individual must supervise all crews entering a hazard zone. All crews will go in together, stay together, and come out together. All crews entering the hazard zone will have a radio.

14.28.3 Passports - ID Cards To enhance accountabilly and lo improve tracking of firefighters in the hazard zone, the "PASSPORT system will be used. identification tags (PASSPORTS) stating the crewmembers name and rank are affixed to the PASSPORTS, which are turned in to the Accountability Officer. The Accountability Officer may be a driver engineer, a Division/Group Officer, or a designated Accountability Officer, depending on the nature, type, and complexity of the incident 14.28.4 Passport Equipment The PASSPORT system equipment involves a board with the companys ID on it Attached to the PASSPORT are all the ID's of the company members presently assigned to that unit. The PASSPORT will be located on the dash of the apparatus at the company officer position or passenger side. A velcro strip will allow the PASSPORT to be affixed on the dash and easily removed. Each firefighter will be issued an identification tag. All engines, ladders, rescues, and specialized equipment will be equipped with a PASSPORT status board This will be used to place PASSPORTS on and will be located on the inside door of the driver's position. The status board will be attached with velcro to permit easy removal. The Company Officer will be responsible for ensuring that the PASSPORT only reflects currently assigned personnel. When entering a hazard zone with a partial crew (i.e., Driver remaining at the engine to pump lines) the Company Officer must turn the name tags of those members not entering the hazard zone upside down. 14.28.5 Tactical Benchmark 1. Several accountability benchmarks are included in tactical operations. The Personnel Accountability Report (or "PAR") involves a roll call of personnel assigned within the hazard zone For the Company Officer, a "PAR" is confirmation that members assigned to his/her crew are accounted for. For the Division/Group Officer, a "PAR" is accounting for all crewmembers of all companies assigned to his/her sector. Reports of PAR's should be conducted face-to-face within the company or with the Division/Group Officer whenever possible. Example: "Engine 31 to Side D Group officer, I have a PAR" (all members accounted for). 2. A personnel accountability report will be required for the following situations a. Any report of a missing or trapped firefighter (Command initiates a PAR of all crews on the scene.) b. Any change from offensive to defensive (Command initiates a PAR of all crews on the scene). C. Any sudden hazardous event at the incident, i.e. flashover, back draft, collapse, etc. (a PAR is initiated by Command). d. By all crew(s) reporting an "all Clear" (Company Officers of crews responsible for search and rescue will ensure they have a PAR for their crews at the time they report an all clear). An "all clear" is defined as completing a primary/secondary search and finding no victims e. At 30 minute elapsed time. f. At a report of fire under control 14.28.6 Accountability Officers 1. Accountability Officers may be a Driver, Division/Group Officers, or personnel specifically assigned to serve as Accountability Officers for the Division/Group Officer. 2. The first engine assigned to each geographic side of the incident will serve as the initial accountability location. The driver will serve as the initial Accountability Officer. All crews entering the incident will deliver their PASSPORTS to the accountability location closest to their "point of entry" prior to entering the hazard zone. As Division/Groups are implemented. Division/Group Officers will manage PASSPORTS only if they are not entering the hazard zone (i.e., defensive operation). Where the Division/Group Officer must enter the hazard zone, PASSPORTS will remain on the first engine (accountability location). As Staff Officers arrive on the scene and stage, they will be assigned accountability responsibilities for given Division/Groups These officers will report to their assigned Division/Group Officer to manage accountability for that area (i.e., main lobby division). 3. As the incident escalates and Staff Officers fill accountability positions for each Division/Group, these Accountability Officers will be assigned to a radio talk group designated by Command. Depending on the situation, Accountability Officers will report to either Command or Logistics. At incidents with a critical need for Accountability Officers to assist Division/Group Officers, command may choose to split up a company and distribute the crewmembers to different Divisions/Group to act as Accountability Officers.

14.28.14 Summary of Accountability Responsibilities Accountability will work only with a strong personal commitment to the safety system. This commitment involves the following responsibilities : a. FIREFIGHTER - Is responsible for staying with their crew at all times and ensuring that their name tag is on the PASSPORT at all times. b. DRIVER ENGINEER - The driver engineer of the first engine to each geographic side of the incident becomes the initial Accountability Officer. The driver must collect PASSPORTS from crews and apparatus assigned to their side of the incident and manage Accountability until relieved by a Division/Group Officer or Accountability Officer. c. COMPANY OFFICER - Is responsible for keeping their crew intact at all times and that the PASSPORT is current and accurate. The PASSPORT must reflect only those personnel entering the hazard zone. The PASSPORT must be turned in at the point of entry and retrieved upon exit. d. DIVISION/GROUP OFFICER - Is responsible for accounting for all crews in their assigned area, maintaining an awareness of their exact location, and maintaining accurate PASSPORTS of those crews in the hazard zone. In those situations where the Division/Group Officer must enter the hazard zone, PASSPORTS will continue to be managed by the driver of the first engine to each side of the incident or a designated Accountability Officer for their Division/Group. e. ACCOUNTABILITY OFFICER - Responsible for teaming up with assigned Division/Group Officer and to manage all accountability for that area. The Accountability Officer must collect all PASSPORTS from driver Engineers, apparatus or the Division/Group Officer. The Accountability Officer must maintain close coordination with other Accountability Officers. f. ACCOUNTABILITY GROUP OFFICER.- Is responsible for managing Accountability Officers, the Accountability System, and cause PAR's to be initiated at tactical benchmarks or as needed. g. COMMAND - Is responsible for tracking the location of all crews. Must advise later assigned crews which engine is serving as the accountability location for PASSPORTS or that the Division/Group or Accountability Officer will be accepting PASSPORTS at the point of entry.

14.29 OPERATIONS SECTION CHIEF The Operations Section Chief (OPS) is responsible for the direct management of all incident tactical activities, the tactical priorities, and the safety and welfare of the personnel working in the Operations Section. The Operations Section Chief is most often staffed when the IC, due to incident complexities, needs to be relieved of the responsibility of being the incident tactician and step back to focus on the "big picture." The Operations Section Chief must also be staffed when the IC's span-of-control becomes too large due to the staffing of too many Divisions and/or Groups and one or more Planning or Logistics Sections or Units. The Operations Section Chief is responsible for the following: 1. Manage incident tactical activities. 2. Coordinate activities with the incident commander. 3. Implement the incident action plan. 4. Assign resources to tactical level areas based on tactical objectives and priorities. 5. Build an effective organizational structure through the use of Branches and Divisions/Groups. 6. Control staging and air operations. 7. Provide for life safety. 8. Determine needs and request additional resources. 9. Consult with and inform other sections and the Incident Command Staff as needed When the Operations Section Chief is staffed, the IC is at the Strategic Level, OPS is at the Tactical Level, and the Divisions/Groups and companies are at the Task Level. When OPS is staffed. Command MUST notify all Branches, Divisions, and Groups, or single resources that are reporting directly to Command that Operations has been initiated and that those functions are now reporting to Operations. RADIO ACKNOWLEDGMENT FROM THESE FUNCTIONS IS REQUIRED.

14.29.1 Branch Directors - Operations Section As the span-of-control begins to become excessive, or the incident becomes increasingly complex, the organization can be further sub-divided into Branches. In general, Branches may be staffed for the following reasons: 1.Span-of-control problems for Command, or for OPS when staffed. 2. For specific functional or geographic area supervision and control. 3. When the incident involves multi-agency, or multi-jurisdictional response. Examples: When Command, or OPS have too many Division and Group Supervisors in their span-of-control. The incident may require various specialist activities such as suppression, EMS, and Haz mat. Command may decide to segregate these operations under technical experts by creating a Suppression Branch, Multi-casualty (Medical) Branch, and a Haz Mat Branch. When the incident requires the services and resources of different agencies or jurisdictions, Command may decide to establish a Fire Branch, Police Branch, and Public Works Branch. This provides those other agencies with direct supervision by their own managers. Most often, the OPS Section Chief will have one or more Deputy Operations Chiefs representing each of the agencies involved. This provides a high level of coordination and authority. Branch Directors may be located at the Command Post and work face-to-face with Command and the OPS chief(s). On incidents that encompass a large geographic area, it may be more effective to have the Branch Directors in their tactical locations. When a Branch is staffed. Command, or OPS as appropriate, MUST notify all Divisions, Groups, and single resources assigned to the Branch that the Branch has been initiated and that those functions are now reporting to that Branch. ACKNOWLEDGMENT FROM THESE FUNCTIONS IS REQUIRED. When the incident calls for a functional Branch structure due to multi-agency response, such as fire, police, and health services, Command or OPS as appropriate, should establish a Branch for each of the agencies. When an incident is multi-agency or multi-jurisdictional, resources are best managed under the managers of those agencies who have normal control over those resources. Branches should always be used at incidents involving two or more distinctly different major management components, e.g., fire with a major evacuation; a large fire with a multi-casualty component, etc.

14.30 PLANNING SECTION The Planning Section is responsible for gathering, assimilating, analyzing, and processing information needed for effective decision making. Information management is a full time task at large and complex incidents. Information is needed for both long term and short term planning. The Planning Section Chief's goal is to plan ahead of current events and to identify the need for resources before they are needed. The Planning Section is responsible for the following: 1. Evaluate current strategy and plan with the Incident Commander. 2. Maintain resource status and personnel accountability. 3. Refine and recommend any needed changes to the Action Plan. 4. Evaluate incident organization and span-of-control. 5. Forecast (predict) possible outcomes. 6. Evaluate future resource requirements. 7. Use technical assistance as needed. 8. Evaluate tactical priorities, specific critical factors, and safety. 9. Gather, update, improve, and manage situation status in a systematic way. 10. Coordinate with any needed outside agencies for planning needs. 11. Plan for incident demobilization. 12. Maintain incident records. 14.31 LOGISTICS SECTION The Logistics Section is the support mechanism for the organization. Logistics provides service and support systems to all organizational components involved in the incident. They may include facilities, transportation, equipment maintenance. fueling, feeding, communications, responder medical services, and responder rehab. Logistics is responsible for the following: 1. Provide for medical aid for incident personnel and manage Responder Rehab. 2. Coordinate with the Broward County Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Team. (See Florida Regional Common EMS Protocols 1.3) 3. Provide and manage any needed supplies or equipment. 4. Forecast and obtain future resource needs (coordinate with the Planning Section). 5. Provide the communications plan and any needed communications equipment 6. Provide fuel and needed repairs to equipment. 7. Obtain specialized equipment or expertise per Command. 8. Provide food and associated supplies. 9. Secure any needed fixed or portable facilities. 10. Provide any other logistical needs as requested by Command. 11. Supervise assigned personnel.

14.32 FINANCE/ADMINISTRATIVE SECTION The Finance/Administrative Section is established on incidents when the agency(s) who are involved have a specific need for finance services. Not all agencies will require the establishment of a separate Finance/Administrative Section. In some cases where only one specific function is required, e.g., cost analysis, that position could be established as a Technical Specialist in the Planning Section. In addition to Finance, other seldom needed but important administrative functions such as a Legal Unit could be established under this Section. The Finance/Administrative Section is responsible for: 1. Procurement of services and/or supplies from sources within and outside the fire department or community as requested by Command (coordinates with Logistics). 2. Documenting all financial costs of the incident. 3. Documenting for possible cost recovery for services or supplies. 4. Analyzing and managing legal risk for incidents. 5. Document for compensation and claims for injuries.

14.33 COMMAND STAFF 14.33.1 Safety Officer: Command will staff the Safety Officer function when Command's allotment of time and focus on safety concerns is insufficient for the incident situation. a. Working fire or other working incidents where other responsibilities require too much of Command's time. b. Incidents where Command cannot personally see incident operations or structure deterioration. c. Highly hazardous incidents such as hazmat, natural disasters, or mass casualty. The Safety Officer has a responsibility to represent policies, procedures, and safety requirements on the fire ground. Unfortunately, this often requires corrective or regulatory actions that create a "Safety Cop" image. The role of the Safety Officer provides for the welfare of personnel operating under the stress, excitement, and danger of the fire ground. This role must not be compromised by irrational attitudes. The Safety Officer should function consistently as an assignment within the fire ground organization. This functional assignment has full authority to move about the fire ground to identify safety concerns. While the Safety Officer normally functions as an advisor to Command, he/she also has the overriding authority to halt any operation or plan when conditions or actions create an IMMEDIATE safety hazard. In addition, the Safety Officer shall keep Command informed of any and all tactical revisions related to safety concerns / hazards. 14.33.2 Liaison Officer Command will staff the Liaison Officer function when Command's ability to personally interact with representatives from outside agencies will interfere with incident management. The Liaison Officer will establish a Liaison Area where all members from outside agencies will be directed to report. This excludes agency representatives that will be part of the Unified Command Post. 14.33.3 Public Information Officer P.I.O. 1. Command will staff the Public Information Officer (P.I.O.) function when Command's ability to personally meet with media representatives would interfere with incident management. 2. The P.I.O. will establish an Information Area where all members from the media will be directed to report. 3. The P.I. O. will brief the press after consulting with Command on the information to be released. 4. The P.I.O. will provide the press with opportunities for pictures of the incident and keep them abreast of conditions. 5. The P.I.O. will provide other governmental agencies with information about incident conditions on an as needed basis.

14.3 RESPONSIBILITIES OF COMMAND The Incident Command System is used to facilitate the completion of the tactical priorities. The Incident Commander (IC) is the person who drives the Incident Command System towards that result, and is the highest authority responsible for command functions. The IC is responsible for building a command strucure that matches the organizational needs of the incident to achieve the tactical priorities to complete the IC's strategic concepts. The IC is responsible for the completion of the following tactical priorties 1. Life Safety, removal, protection, and treatment of occupants 2. Incident Stabilization 3. Property Conservation 4. Provide for the safety, accountability, and welfare for personnel. This responsibility is ongoing throughout the incident. 14.4 FUNCTIONS OF COMMAND The Incident Commander shall 1. Assume and announce Command, and announce Command and establish an effective position (Command Post) 2. Rapidly evaluate the situation (Size-up) Select one of two basic strategies a) Offensive Attack b) Defensive Attack (The circumstances and available resources will dictate the decision on which strategy to use.) 3. Initiate, maintain, and control the communications process. Dispatch will advise responding units and personnel on which Tactical Talk Group to use. 4. Identify the overall strategy and select tactics, develop an incident action plan (written incident action plans will be needed when two or more jurisdictions are involved or the incident will overlap an operational period), and assign companies and personnel, consistent with the plan and these General Operating Guidelines. 5. Develop an effective Incident Management Organization. 6. Review, evaluate, and revise (as needed) the Incident Action Plan (IAP), which must be written during a large-scale incident. 7. Provide for the continuity, transfer, and termination of Command. *The first five functions must be addressed immediately upon assumption of Command.

14.5 ESTABLISHING COMMAND The ranking fire department member of the first unit to arrive at the scene shall assume Command of the incident. The initial IC shall remain in Command until Command is transferred or the incident is terminated. The IC must staff the parts of the Incident Command System that are needed to effectively manage the incident resources. On major incidents there are four levels to the command structure: 1. Command. Strategy Level. 2. Operations. Control Level. 3. Branch/Division/Group. Tactical levels. 4. Companies. Task Levels. 14.5.1 Command Level Command refers to those functions necessary for overall control and accomplishment of strategic objectives. The Command level should be staffed by the highest ranking qualified Officer who will plan overall strategy, develop an adequate, effective Command structure and fire ground organization, and provide the necessary support to meet these objectives.

14.5.2 Operations Level An operation refers to those organizational elements used in situations that are complex enough to require an intermediate or control level in the organizational structure. Operations is an optional level, which may be implemented when Command finds it necessary to group sectors (branches, divisions, groups) together to lessen Command's span of control. An experienced Staff Officer, usually a Division Chief or person of higher rank should staff this level that plans and controls the functions of several sectors (branches, divisions, groups). 14.5.3 Branch/Division/Group Levels (sectors) Branch/Division/Group levels are identified as the immediate tactical level of Command in the organizational structure. Company Officers, Battalion Chiefs, 6 or Division Chiefs depending on the complexity of the incident can supervise sectors. Sector Officers concentrate on the more specific areas and tasks needed to meet the overall operational objectives within their sector. Generally, several companies will be assigned to each Sector with the Sector Officers answering to Operations, or if the operations level has not been established, answering directly to Command. 14.5.4 Task Level The task level in the organizational structure refers to those evolution-oriented functions or company level operations and individual accomplishments, which when accumulated, add to the achievement of sector or incident control objectives. These are functions with the Company Officer answering to the Sector Officer. When only a single unit has responded to an incident the ranking member is only required to acknowledge the arrival of the unit. Example: "Rescue 5 on scene: auto accident 26th Ave and Arthur St." On incidents where multiple units are dispatched, the ranking member of the first unit to arrive MUST establish Command and begin to develop an Incident Command structure by giving an initial radio report. The first arriving Officer on scene should transmit a brief message that outlines the extent of the incident. This message shall be transmitted for the benefit of all additional responding companies, higher ranking Officers, Fire Dispatch, etc. The intent of this message is to inform all additional responding personnel of the situation prior to their arrival so that they may prepare accordingly. The initial radio report should include: 1. Company identification, arrival on the scene (including address), and confirmation of assumption of Command. 2 Description of situation (What do I have?). E.g.: building description. occupancy, size (small, medium, large), construction, (C.B.S., wood frame, etc), obvious fire condition, injuries, hazardous incident category, etc. 3. Description of action taken (What am I doing?). E.g.: establishing command, laying lines, forcing entry, preparing to attack, ventilating, etc. 4. Description of needed equipment (What do I need?). E.g.: next due Engine Company lay an additional line, Ladder Company set aerial to the roof and report conditions, etc.

14.5.5 Good Radio Procedures 1. Short and Specific: Before transmitting know what needs to be said Choose precise terms to communicate the desired message as clearly and briefly as possible without wasting airtime. The person transmitting the message must keep their mouth close to the mike. 2. Task Oriented: Orders received by companies should indicate a specific task that is assigned to that company. 3. Indicate Objective: In addition to being task and company oriented assignments should indicate an objective to the action. The company should know exactly where to go, to whom to report, what the task will be, and what the objective of the task is. It would tell what to do, not how to do it (e.g. "Command to Engine 5A you will be in charge of the ventilation group, open the roof for ventilation."). 4. Self-Control/Effective Rate: Speak clearly at a practiced rate, not too fast or too sloW. Deliberately control emotions and excitement. If the voice is not consciously controlled it will become garbled. 5. Well Timed/Spaced: Prioritize messages. Do not use up valuable airtime with unimportant messages and insignificant details. Let critical messages go first. Maintain an awareness of the overall situation. 6. Face-to-Face: Whenever possible, use face-to-face communications. This will help keep the radio talk group as open as possible and permit physical feedback for clarity of directions. 14.5.6 Terminology for Reporting Fire Conditions The first arriving Company Officer shall utilize the five following terms to describe initial fire ground conditions: 1. NOTHING SHOWING - This designation shall be transmitted for situations in which no signs of smoke or fire are present, and should be additionally defined as to what area of the structure this condition is present upon arrival, i.e., north, south, east or west. This term also refers to the fact that the Officer is conducting or is about to conduct an investigation. 2. SMOKE SHOWING - This designation shall be transmitted whenever smoke is issuing from a structure and should be additionally defined as light, moderate, or heavy. Companies may be expected to perform some degree of work upon arrival depending upon the condition present. 3. FLAMES SHOWING - This designation shall be transmitted for situations in which flames are visible. The first arriving Officer shall report the extent of the fire and its location. Responding companies may be expected to perform some degree of work upon arrival depending on the conditions present. 4. WORKING FIRE - This designation shall be transmitted for situations in which smoke and flames are visible and the first arriving Officer has reason to believe that the fire will require the utilization of all responding companies upon arrival for forcible entry, search and rescue, fire attack, ventilation, support services, etc. At this time the reporting Officer shall determine if any additional equipment is necessary and request it. 5. EQUIPMENT ON SCENE CAN HANDLE - The first arriving Company Officer or Battalion Chief should only use this designation after a thorough size-up. It means that the personnel and equipment currently on scene can handle the situation. Unless advised otherwise, Communications should cancel any other responding units who have not arrived. A complete report from a first arriving Officer may look something like this example: "Engine 5 on scene at 1910 Monroe St. I have a working fire. Smoke and flames are visible from the second floor of a medium sized two-story apartment building. Capt. (name) is in Command in the front of the building. Engine 5 is preparing to advance two 1-3/4 lines into the building from the A, B, C, or D side. Communications to all units responding to 1910 Monroe St, Capt. (name) is in Command on side B of the building and reporting a working fire." "Command to Dispatch, have units responding to 1910 Monroe Street move to a Tac Channel:" Dispatch will assign a Tac Channel. "Monroe St. Command to Rescue 5, report to the A Side of the building and assist Engine 5 (Rescue 5, acknowledge). Command to Platform 5 set the aerial to the roof at the A/B. B/C etc. corner, report conditions and prepare to ventilate the roof (Platform 5, acknowledge). Command to Engine 31, lay a 5" supply line to Engine 5 (Engine 31, acknowledge)." Once the designation of a Working Fire has been transmitted by the arriving Company Officer or higher ranking Officer, or at the direction of the Incident Commander, Dispatch shall initiate a "Group 1 Page". The Incident Commander will be responsible for transmitting a report of conditions, to include location, type of occupancy, fire condition, any injuries or loss of life, etc. This brief initial report allows other arriving units to be better prepared to take action upon arrival. It also allows other unit commanders and chief officers to pre-think the usual tactics that may be required of their units for this specific situation. The radio designation "Command" will be used in conjunction with the geographical location of the incident, e.g., Johnson Street Command, Port Everglades Command. This designation will not change throughout the incident. Example: "Rescue 74 arrival at a vehicle accident Johnson St. and 46th Ave. Two vehicles involved with several injuries. Lt. Rice will be Johnson St. Command

14.6 TYPES/LEVELS OF INCIDENT COMMAND 14.6.1 Level 5 Level 5 Incident Command, also known as, "Single Command" shall be used only on incidents that are under control or where control is clearly imminent. The requirements of Level 5 incident command shall be as follows: 1. Level 5 should only be used on minor incidents where no command assistance is needed. 2. A Level 5 incident can be upgraded to a Level 4 incident if necessary depending on the incident's progression. 3. If it is upgraded to a Level 4 incident the guidelines of the following section must be followed. 4. Should an Officer with a rank higher than the Incident Commander arrive on scene, he/she is considered to be an observer only, unless he/she makes the decision to upgrade the incident to a Level 4 incident, or in his/her professional judgment he/she feels it's necessary that he/she take command. In this case number "3" above would apply. 14.6.2 Level 4 Level 4 Incident Command shall be used on more complex incidents, on incidents which are not under control, where control is questionable, or where implementation of a formal Command Post would improve the effectiveness or safety of the operation. The requirements of level 4 incident command are as follows: 1. A formal command post must be established by the Incident Commander and its location given to all personnel working the incident and Fire Dispatch. The command post will be designated by using a green rotating light. 2. The IC. Guidelines must be activated according to the provisions herein. When an officer of higher rank arrives on scene he/she must take command following the guidelines of Transferring Command. 3. Chief Officers responding to the incident must notify the Incident Commander of their response and estimated time of arrival. 4. The Incident Commander can downgrade an incident to a Level 5 incident. according to incident de-escalation guidelines, when the circumstances dictate. 5. During mutual aid incidents, which are outside of Hollywood's jurisdiction, the Incident Commander shall request a mutual aid talk group. In most cases all personnel operating on the emergency incident will utilize this talk group, but at the discretion of the Incident Commander, certain individuals or sectors may operate on other tactical groups.

14.6.3 Level 3 1. When capabilities exceed initial attack, the appropriate ICS positions should be added to match the complexity of the incident. 2. Some or all of the Command and General Staff positions may be activated, as well as, Division/Group Supervisor and/or Unit Leader level positions. 3. A Type 3 Incident Management Team (IMT) or Incident Command organization manages initial action incidents with a significant number of resources, an extended attack incident until containment/control is achieved, or an expanding incident until transition to a Type 1 or 2 team. 4. The incident may extend into multiple operational periods 5. A written IP may be required for each operational period. 14.6.4 Level 2 1. This type of incident extends beyond the capabilities for local control and is expected to go into multiple operational periods. A Type 2 incident may require the response of resources out of the area, including regional and/or national resources, to effectively manage the operations, command, and general staffing. 2. Most or all of the Command and General Staff positions are filled. 3. A written IP is required for each operational period. 4. Many of the functional units are needed and staffed. 5. Operations personnel normally do not exceed 200 per operational period and total incident personnel normally do not exceed 200 (quidelines onlv). 6. The agency administrator is responsible for the incident complexity analysis, agency administrator briefings, and the written delegation of authority. 14.6.5 Level 1 1. This type of incident is the most complex, requiring national resources to safely and effectively manage and operate. 2. All Command and General Staff positions are activated 3. Operations personnel often exceed 500 per operational period and total personnel will usually exceed 1.000. 4. Branches need to be established. 5. The agency administrator will have briefings, and ensure that the complexity analysis and delegation of authority are updated. 6. Use of resource advisors at the incident base is recommended 7. There is a high impact on the local jurisdiction, requiring additional staff for office, administrative, and support functions.

14.7 ESTABLISHING A FORMAL COMMAND POST 14.7.1 Location The Command Post should be established as soon as possible after it has been determined that the incident will require lengthy and/or complicated procedures to mitigate. The Command Post should be located in an area where the Incident Commander has visibility of the incident. Possible exceptions to this may include: 1. High-rise fire incidents where the Command Post would normally be located in the fire control room or lobby where access to the communication panel is found. In this case, should the incident escalate and a lobby control division or tactical operations section be established, the Command Post should be located to the outside, remote from interference and noise from civilian and Fire personnel (see section 2.26 for additional information on High-rise Guidelines.) 2. On hazardous materials incidents the Command Post should be located on the upwind side remote from the incident and in the cold zone. The Command Post should consist of the following personnel and equipment: 1. Identity of the Command Post should be established by Command giving the location over the radio and if possible a green rotating beacon light should be activated. 2. The portable table should be set up and all communication equipment placed on the table. 3 Situation status (SITSTAT) display should be set up. 4. Resources status (RESTAT) display should be set up. 5. Command Post area should be cordoned off with rope or fire line tape to prevent unauthorized people from entering. 6. Command Post personnel should be limited to only those needed to effectively control the incident, Minimum amount of personnel would include the Incident Commander and one aide, Other personnel that may have access to the Command Post would include: a, Planning Officer b. Public Information Officer c. Safety Officer d, Liaison Officer e. Technical advisers (Building Engineers, Hazardous Material experts, needed agency representative, etc.) f. Police Liaison 7. Personnel Accountability boards, name tags, etc,

14.8 TACTICAL PRIORITIES/FUNCTIONS FOR FIRE GROUND OPERATIONS Tactical priorities identify the three separate major tactical functions that must be completed in order to stabilize a fire incident. Listed by priority, they are: 1. Rescue (This may necessitate the use of hose lines to hold the fire while making rescue) 2. Fire Control a. Locate b. Confine c. Extinguish 3. Property Conservation This list gives the Incident Commander a set of functions (what to do) priorities (when to do them), and benchmarks (how to tell when each function is completed). 14.8.1 Company Objectives The objectives listed below are those normally associated with the various types of companies. It should be noted, however, that these typical objectives are subject to change at the discretion of the Incident Commander. Engine Company: Conduct a search, and rescue endangered occupants. Locate, confine, and extinguish the fire. Aerial/ Truck Company: Gain entry (forcible or non-forcible), accomplish ventilation (natural or forced), search and rescue endangered occupants, secure utilities, (gas, electric, and water) and conduct overhaul and property conservation. Rescue Company: Supplement Aerial//Truck and engine company (in that order) operations deemed necessary by Command. In addition, rescue companies may be expected to provide support activities, i.e., reconnaissance, medical care and other required support.

14.34.4 MCI Kits Each Unit will carry an MCI bag, included in the bag will be: A. 2 Triage aprons with 2 combine dressings, 6 gloves, assorted OPAs or maps. Tied on each side will be 2 clip rings containing triage ribbons in red and yellow, green and black, with 15 ribbons of each color. B. 1 additional set of Triage ribbon. C. Fifty MET Tags or disaster management tags (DMS). D. Three (3) mechanical pencils and three (3) grease pencils 14.34.5 S.T.A.R.T. SYSTEM OF TRIAGE 1. INTRODUCTION This procedure will be based on the Simple Triage And Rapid Treatment or START method. The START method of triage is designed to assess a large number of victims rapidly and can be used by personnel with limited medical training effectively. 2. PROCEDURE A. Initial triage - Using the START Method (See 3); 1) Utilize the Triage Ribbons (color coded plastic strips). One should be tied to an upper extremity in a visible location (wrist if possible). a) RED - First priority, immediate. b) YELLOW - Second priority, delayed. C) GREEN - Third priority, minor. d) BLACK - Deceased. 2) Independent decisions should be made for each victim. Do not base triage decisions on the perception of too many reds, not enough greens etc. 3) If borderline decisions are encountered always triage to the most urgent priority (Green/Yellow patient, tag Yellow). B. Secondary Triage 1) Will be performed on all victims during the Treatment Phase. If a victim is identified in the initial triage phase as a Red and transport is available do not delay transport to perform a secondary assessment. 2) Utilize the Triage Tags (METTAGS) or the disaster management system tag and attempt to assess for and complete all information required on the tag (time permitting). Affix the tag to the victim and remove the ribbon. 3) The Triage priority determined in the Treatment Phase should be the priority used for transport.

3. START A. Corral all of the 'Walking wounded" into one location away from the incident if possible. These victims are initially triaged green. Assign someone to keep them together (P.D, F.D., or initially a bystander) notify command of their location - Do not forget these victims. Someone should triage them as soon as possible. B. Begin assessing all non-ambulatory victims where they lay if possible. Each victim should be triaged in 60 seconds or less NOTE: Remember the mnemonic RPM. (Respiration, Perfusion, Mental Status), 1) Assess RESPIRATIONS a) If respiratory rate is 30/min or less go to PERFUSION assessment. b) If respiratory rate is over 30/min, Tag RED. c) If victim is not breathing open the airvay, remove obstructions if seen, and assess for (1) or (2) above. d) If victim is still not breathing. Tag BLACK 2) Assess PERFUSION: a) Performed by palpating a radial pulse or assessing capillary refill time (CR). b) If radial pulse is present or CR is 2 seconds or less, go to MENTAL assessment. c) No radial pulse or CR is greater than 2 seconds, Tag RED NOTE In addition, any major external bleeding should also be controlled. 3) Assess MENTAL STATUS: a) Assess the victims ability to follow simple commands and their orientation to time, place, and person. b) If the victim follows commands, oriented X3, Tag GREEN, NOTE: Depending on injuries (bums, fractures, bleeding) it may be necessary to Tag YELLOW. c) If the victim does not follow commands, is unconscious, or is disoriented, Tag RED. 4. SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS A. The first assessment that produces a RED Tag stops further assessment. B. Only correction of life-threatening problems, such as airway obstruction or severe hemorrhage should be managed during triage. C. When pediatric patients are involved consider the Jump START Triage found on page 45 of the Florida Regional Common EMS protocols. D. When an MCI involves Weapons of Mass Destruction incidents refer to page 55 of the Florida Regional Common EMS Protocols.

GLOSSARY Administrative Officers - Officers within all Divisions other than Operations. Aerial Company - (Also known as a Ladder or Truck Company). A fire department apparatus with a complement of Firefighters trained in the use of ground ladders, aerial ladders, snorkel and elevating platforms. These companies provide ventilation of smoke and fire gases as the engine company attacks the fire. They also force entry, rescue occupants, provide lighting, and perform salvage and overhaul operations. Arrival - Term used to report the arrival of various companies on the incident scene. Backdraft - An explosion of heated gases in a confined structure, the problem may be eliminated by proper ventilation procedures. This is an oxygen-regulated event. B.L.E.V.E, - (Pronounced Blev-vee). A boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion, involving hazardous material-type substances which results in a devastating explosion Branch - The organizational level having functional/geographic responsibility for major segments of incident operations. This functional level falls between SECTION and DIVISION/GROUP. Brief Initial Report - The initial status report that includes all the information necessary to establish the operations at an incident. Brief Progress Report - Periodic information on the status of an incident designed to keep interested parties informed as to the progress of the incident. Chief - Functional title of the individual in-charge of the General Staff positions: Operations, Planning, Logistics, or Finance Command - That section of the General Staff responsible for the overall management of incident activities. Specifically responsible for assessing incident priorities; developing goals and objectives; developing and implementing incident action plans; developing appropriate command structure; resource management; incident scene safety: liaison with outside agencies; and release of appropriate information to the media. Command Post - A fixed location at which primary COMMAND functions are executed. Command Staff - The collective functions of Safety, Liaison, and Public Information Officer that report directly to the IC.

Communications Unit - Functional unit within the Service Branch of the Logistics Section responsible for the incident communications plan, the installation and repair of communications equipment, and operation of the incident communications center. Company - A ground vehicle providing specified equipment, capability, and personnel. Company Officer - The individual assigned as the Officer in charge of a company, either pumper truck, or rescue. Compensations/Claims Unit - Functional unit within the Finance Section responsible for financial concerns resulting from injuries or fatalities at an incident. Crash Truck - Specially designed apparatus equipped with water, foam, and dry chemical extinguishing systems for aircraft firefighting. Crew - A specific number of personnel not to exceed the recommended span of control of 3 to 7 (5 being optimal) assembled for an assignment. Most often used when company assignments are not available. Defensive Strategy - An exterior attack with related support designed to stop the forward progress of the fire and then provide fire control. Not to be used in conjunction with an offensive strategy. De-escalation - The winding down of an incident. Placing units back in service Delayed Treatment Manager - A functional unit in the Treatment Group, under the Medical Branch when activated, of the Operations Section that is responsible for providing care to the non-critically injured. Demobilization Unit - Functional unit within the Planning Section responsible for assuring orderly, safe, efficient demobilization of resources committed to an incident Director - Functional title of the individual in-charge of a Branch. District - A designated geographic area in which fire companies and apparatus are maintained. The immediate response area. Division - That organizational level having responsibility for operations within a defined geographic area. This functional level falls between BRANCH and GROUPS.

14.34 MASS CASUALTY INCIDENTS Purpose To efficiently triage, treat, and transport victims of multiple casualty incidents (MCI's). The following procedure is applicable to all multiple victim situations. This procedure is intended for the MCI when the number of injured exceed the capabilities of the first arriving unit, as well as, large scale MCIs. 14.34.1 Procedure A. The officer of the first arriving unit will establish command and; 1. Perform a size up: a. Estimate the number of victims. b. Request additional units and/or specialized equipment as required. 2. Identify a staging area. 3. Direct the remaining crew members and any additional personnel arriving to initiate triage. Triage will be performed in accordance with START (Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment). To tag victims utilize the color-coded ribbons found in the MCI box on each rescue unit. • Red = Immediate • Yellow = Delayed • Green = Ambulatory (minor) • Black = Deceased 4. Direct the walking wounded to a holding area away from the incident B. Predetermined Response Plan An MCI shall be classified by different levels depending on the number of victims. The number of victims will be based on the initial size-up, prior to triage. MCI LEVEL 1 (5-10 victims) 4 Rescues Shift Supervisor 2 Suppression units EMS Supervisor -Medcom will notify the 2 closest hospitals & trauma center. MCI LEVEL 2 (11-20 victims) 6 Rescues 2 Shift Supervisors 3 Suppression units 2 EMS Supervisors -Medcom will notify the 3 closest hospitals & 2 trauma centers. MCI LEVEL 3 (21-100 victims) 8 Rescues 4 Suppression units 1 Operations Chief 3 Shift Supervisors 3 EMS Supervisors 1 Command Vehicle 1 Supply Trailer -Medcom will notify 4 closest hospitals & 2 trauma centers. -All units are to respond to the incident unless otherwise directed. -Command can downgrade or upgrade the assignment at any time. -Consider Mass Transit for the walking wounded on an MCI Level 2 or greater and Air Rescue. -Consider MCV - Mobile Command Vehicle or Triage Trailers as resources. -Medcom MRCC will gather hospital capabilities and maintain log throughout the incident. Medcom will advise Transport of unit's destination. -The Local Warning Point will notify the Emergency Management Agency. C. As additional units arrive, Command will designate officers in the following order: 1) Triage (already established) 2) Treatment 3) Transport 4) Staging

D. Additional officers may be required depending on the complexity of the incident. These officers may include, but are not limited to: 1) Landing Zone 2) Extrication 3) Haz Mat 4) Rehabilitation E. Strike Team - is a specified combination of the same kind and type of resources with common communications and leader (e.g. ALS transport Unit Strike Team eould be 5 ALS Transport Units with a leader). F. Task Force - is a group of resources with common communications and a leader (e.g. MCI Task Force would be 2 ALS Transport Units, 2 BLS Transport Units and 1 Suppression Unit) MCI LEVEL 4 (101-1000 victims) 5 MCI Task Forces (25 units) 2 ALS Transport Unit Strike Teams (10 units) 1 Suppression Unit Strike Team (5 units) 2 BLS Transport Unit Strike Teams (10 units) 2 Mass Transit Buses 5 Shift Supervisors 3 EMS Supervisors 1 EMS Chief 1 Operations Chief 1 Command Vehicle 2 Supply Trailers 1 Communications Trailer -Medcom will notify the 10 closest hospitals & 5 trauma centers. -The Local Warning Point will notify the Emergency Management Agency. -In an ongoing, long term MCI, the Metropolitan Medical Response System (MMRS) and Disaster medical Assistance Team (DMAT) may be notified. MCI LEVEL 5 (over 1000 victims) 10 MCI Task Forces (50 units) 4 ALS Transport Unit Strike Teams (20 units) 2 Suppression Unit Strike Team (10 units) 4 BLS Transport Unit Strike Teams (20 units) 4 Mass Transit Buses 10 Shift Supervisors 6 EMS Supervisors 2 EMS Chiefs 2 Operations Chiefs 2 Command Vehicles 4 Supply Trailers 1 Communications Trailer Medcom will notify the 20 closest hospitals & 10 trauma centers. The Local Warning Point will notify the Emergency Management Agency. In an ongoing, long term MCI, the Metropolitan Medical Response System (MMRS) and Disaster medical Assistance Team (DMAT), International Medical & Surgical Response Team (IMSuRT), and the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) may be notified.

Initial Response Checklist For Reported MCI COMMAND - FOG #1- Engine or Rescue upon arrival, report the size up, include: A. Brief description of the incident. B. Approximate number of victims. Announce MCI Level. Level 1 (5-10), Level 2 (11-20), Level 3 (21-100) and Level 4 (101-1000) Level 5 (over 1000). C. Exact location. D. Identify hazards and best access. E. Assess the need for any special equipment or services (Haz Mat, extrication equipment, Dive Team, heavy equip. etc.). F. Engine Company Officer establish Command. FIRST ARRIVING RESCUE UNIT A. Ensure size up and MCI Level has been announced. B. First in unit shall assume control of Triage. The senior paramedic shall become the Triage Group and stay at the Rescue unit. C. The rescue crew will become the Triage Team, obtain the Triage aprons and initiate triage under direction of the Triage Group officer. D. Ensures that all victims are located, triaged, and moved to the treatment area. E. Coordinates extrication when needed. F. Directs transportation personnel to remove victims in proper order per category. G. Supervises assembly and relocation of ambulatory victims. (green ribbon) H. Each member of the Triage Team must remain in an area proximal to the general area of the victims. Continue to support those victims until transportation assistance is available. At that time, the paramedic should advise the transport personnel which victims should be evacuated first and assist with proper loading of those victims. J. As the last victims are removed from an area the paramedic should check with the Triage Group whether to assist other Triage Team personnel or to report to the treatment area for further reassignment. K. Additional arriving units may be assigned to assist in triage under the direction of the Triage Group. ARRIVAL OF CHIEF OFFICER A. Consult with Engine Officer and get all pertinent information already gathered. B. Assume Command until relieved and establish a command post or join the one already established. CP should be clearly identifiable and marked with at least one green light. C. Appoint Fire Operations if necessary. .D. Appoint Fire Officers as necessary to carry out the essential functions to mitigate the circumstances of the emergency incident. E. Meet with EMS Operations as deemed necessary. ARRIVAL OF A BATTALION CHIEF - MEDICAL FOG #2 A. A Battalion Chief will become EMS Operations until relieved. B. Upon arrival, consult with the Triage Group Officer and get all of the pertinent information already gathered. C. Work with the Incident Commander at the CP or in close proximity. D. Conducts his/her own size up, and confirm MCI Level. E. Requests additional resources as necessary through command. (additional medical units, ambulances, fire, police, etc.) F. Establish an on-scene radio talk group. G. Notify Medcom of the extent of the MCI, briefly how many victims, and condition (general) of group. Medcom will start to roll call area hospitals. H. Appoint Treatment Group, ensure treatment area is established, if necessary, and Treatment Sector has METTAGs. Appoint a Transportation Group and ensure an ambulance loading area has been established J. Appoint a Staging Group and ensure a staging area has been designated for all other arriving vehicles. They must be kept near to, but not at, the scene so as not to cause congestion at the site or the CP

EMS OPERATIONS -Confirm a Mass Casualty Incident exists, -Confirm MCI Level. -Make rapid assessment of incident. -Activate Department MC Predetermined Response Plan. -Request additional emergency units and equipment. -Obtain "EMS Operations" Portfolio and Supplies from "Mass Casualty Incident Management Kit" located in the MC box or in the MCV. -Obtain EMS Tactical Command Board. -Establish and appropriately identify "Command Post" if not done so by command (use green light). -EMS Operations MUST remain at Command Post, establish EMS CP at or near Central CP, if necessary. -Don EMS Operations Vest. -Advise Dispatch of "First In Report" information. -Assign Officers and distribute Sector Checklists: Triage Group, Treatment Group, Transportation Group, Staging Group -Consult With Command to determine if it is safe to begin EMS Operations. -Utilize "EMS Tactical Command Sheet" throughout incident; complete appropriate sections. -Coordinate all EMS Operations during incident; consult with other officers as needed. -Consult with Command to appoint PIO. Act as liaison with other medical support agencies -Assign and reassign personnel as necessary. Reevaluate need for additional units and equipment.

14.5.7 Emergency Radio Traffic The international term "May Day" shall be utilized whenever a fire rescue company or individual crewmember is down (seriously injured), trapped, or believed missing and in immediate peril. The May Day signal will receive the highest communications priority from dispatch, command, and all operating units. Units may initiate the May Day signal by verbally broadcasting the term May Day several times. When any company or individual crew member reports a seriously injured, trapped or missing firefighter in immediate peril by declaring "May Day, May Day, May Day", followed by their radio identifier and a brief description of the emergency, the incident commander will immediately focus on the emergency, quickly confirm the specifics of the situation, and immediately direct appropriate on-scene emergency actions to mitigate the perilous situation. The plain-language term "Emergency Traffic" will be utilized whenever a fire rescue company or individual crew member encounters an immediately perilous situation that does NOT involve trapped, injured, or missing emergency personnel, or when the Fire Dispatcher needs to gain control of the talk group. The Emergency Traffic signal will receive a very high communications priority from dispatch, command, and all operating units (only the May Day signal is higher). NOTE: Either of these signals may also be initiated by first depressing the orange "emergency' button on their radio, and then following the appropriate procedure). Whenever either of these high priority signals is transmitted, the incident commander will gather all necessary information, including confirming the nature of the problem (trapped, missing, injured, location, etc.). The incident commander shall then advise dispatch to activate the appropriate emergency protocol. Dispatch will immediately activate the WARBLE tone, and repeat ALL information that was provided, thus enabling all units on the channel to be aware of the emergency. If the high-low tone cannot be transmitted, the dispatcher will make an announcement "Attention all units, Attention all units." In the event that command has NOT been established or a unit cannot reach command, that unit shall advise dispatch they have emergency traffic and let dispatch acknowledge them prior to giving the information, if possible. Dispatch shall then activate the High-Low tone and advise the unit to re-transmit their message. Dispatch will repeat the message one time.

If dispatch does not acknowledge the emergency traffic request (High-Low tone not activated), the unit declaring emergency traffic will then establish contact with command and transmit the emergency message. Command will then re-initiate the emergency traffic sequence with dispatch. Note: ANY UNIT GIVING EITHER OF THESE EMERGENCY SIGNALS HAS COMMUNICATIONS PRIORITY. Dispatch must control the active talk group or channel used by the unit with the declared emergency. All nonessential radio traffic must be stopped and units not assigned to that incident may need to be assigned to a monitored tactical channel until the emergency has been declared secure. In the unlikely event that the Incident Commander or dispatch does not acknowledge either of these radio signals, any monitoring crew in a position to assist should attempt to re-transmit the alert and respond to the request for assistance. In addition to the above emergency signals, the plain-language term "EMERGENCY EVACUATION" shall be utilized whenever circumstances require an immediate evacuation from inside a structure or away from the hazard zone of an incident. Once a potential EMERGENCY EVACUATION condition is identified, the Incident Commander shall be notified immediately. Once the decision is made to evacuate, the incident commander will direct dispatch to sound the WARBLE tone and transmit the message "All personnel evacuate the building (or area) immediately". This message shall be repeated at least twice initially, and once every 15 or 20 seconds over the next minute to ensure that all in the area are aware of the hazard. At the direction of the IC an air horn will be sounded in one continuous blast for up to one minute. If any personnel are unaccounted for, all unnecessary operations shall be suspended and the Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) (14.27) shall be deployed as appropriate. The focus of all other on-scene resources shall be devoted to locating and protecting missing personnel.

Logistics Section - The section of the General Staff responsible directly to the IC for providing facilities, services, and materials for the incident. May Day - See section 14.5.7 Medical Staging Area Manager - A functional unit in the Transportation Group, under the Medical Branch when activated, of the Operations Section that is responsible for EMS transport unit staging when separate from the incident staging area. Medical Unit - Functional unit within the Service Branch of the Logistics Function responsible for emergency medical treatment of on-scene emergency personnel. Multiple Alarm - An additional alarm such as a second or third alarm that is a request for additional response of equipment and manpower. Mutual Aid (Inter-local Agreement) - Reciprocal assistance from other fire departments under a prearranged plan by contract on the basis that each will assist the other in time of an emergency. Offensive Strategy - Interior attack and related support directed toward quickly bringing the fire under control. Officer - Functional title of any individual responsible for the Command Staff functions of Safety, Liaison, or Information. Operations Section - The General Staff section responsible directly to the IC for management of all tactical operations. Plan of Attack - The strategy and tactics determined through size-up as necessary to bring the situation under control. Planning Section - The General Staff section responsible for the collection, evaluation, dissemination, and use of information about the development of the incident and the status of resources. Position Kits - Markers used to reflect the physical location of persons/bodies after an incident.

Plan of Attack - The strategy and tactics determined through size-up as necessary (0 bring the situation under control. Planning Section - The General Staff section responsible for the collection, evaluation, dissemination, and use of information about the development of the incident and the status of resources. Position Kits - Markers used to reflect the physical location of persons/bodies after an incident. Post Incident Analysis - (PIA) An after incident critique with negatives and positives stressed. To alter the negatives and reinforce the positives. Primary Search - A rapid search of all involved and exposed areas affected by fire that can be safely entered. Procurement Unit - Functional unit within the Finance Section responsible for financial matters involving vendors. Public Information Officer - Officer responsible for the formulation and release of information about the incident to the news media and other appropriate agencies, as approved by the Incident Commander. Rapid Intervention Crew - (RIC) are crews of at least two properly trained and equipped responders who are available to perform a rescue of other responders if required. Reconnaissance - Gathering information not visually available to Command. It is usually acquired by assigning personnel to specific problems and receiving their reports via radio or face-to-face contact. Responder Rehab - Functional unit within the Medical Unit of the Logistics Section responsible for monitoring, evaluation, and appropriate action concerning the medical condition of emergency response personnel. Resource Status Unit (RESTAT) - Functional unit within the Planning Section responsible for recording the status of resources committed to an incident. Safety Officer - Responsible for monitoring and assessing safety hazards or unsafe situations and developing measures for ensuring personnel safety.

SUPPLY FOG #6 This will be the responsibility of the Treatment Group if not enough personnel available -Obtain briefing from EMS Operations. -Radio designation "Supply" -Don "Supply Group" vest. -Establish a suitable location for supplies of medical equipment usually near the treatment area. -Work with the Treatment Group for needed supplies. -Maintain routine stock of medical supplies and equipment, if needed. -Coordinate the procurement of medical supplies, from SFRD MCI supplies or Broward County EMS MCI Supplies (refer to Appendix 27 and 28 of MCI Plan).

REHABILITATION GROUPS -Obtain briefing from Command, EMS Operations or Fire Operations. -Radio designation "Rehab." -Don Rehab Group Vest and Review Checklists -Determine equipment and personnel needs in the Rehab Area. Request same from EMS Operations or Command. Establish a Rehab Area: * Provide a safe, quiet, cool area outside of MCI. * Consider - Weather and safety. * Area should be large enough for personnel to drop off equipment, medical evaluation, and a Nourishment/Refreshment Area. * Should contain an air conditioned EMS Unit, bus, or similar. -Designate Secondary Rehab Area as alternative should the Primary Area become unusable. -Inform Command, EMS and Fire Operations of Primary and Secondary Rehab Area locations (if appropriate). -Rehab Group should not become involved in physical tasks -Make arrangements for food and fluids. -Provide medical evaluation for rescuers, assign personnel to treat rescuers. -Refer to Medical Surveillance Data Sheets, watch for Red Flag Parameters (see pg. 28 of this annex) -Advise EMS Operations and/or Transportation Group if any rescuers need transportation to a medical facility. -Complete "Rehab Group Log" as rescuers pass through Rehab Area. -After personnel have been released from the Rehab Area they are to report to Command. -Additional Rehab Group paperwork may be obtained from the Rescue Lt. Unit, Battalion Unit. or MCV.

TRANSPORT OFFICER FOG #5 **ONLY PERSON TO COMMUNICATE WITH MRCC2 ** If MRCC is unavailable, communication will take place through Medcom.** 2 MRCC - Medical Resource Coordination Center - Prime function is to maintain a status as to the number of victims and the hospital readiness status to accept victims, coordinate ambulance transportation and direct them to the appropriate hospitals during a disaster or other situation requiring a high demand of medical resources. -Obtain briefing from EMS Operations. -Radio designation "Transport". -Don Transportation Sector Vest and review checklists. -Determine equipment and personnel needs in Transportation Area; request same from EMS Operations. -Coordinate personnel assigned to Transportation Area. -Consider assigning a "Documentation Aide" to assist with paperwork. -Provide and coordinate victim transport. -Communicate with MRCC or Medcom; Be specific but brief: -Relay information concerning incident. -Ascertain each hospital's capabilities and number of specialty beds available. -Inform MRCC of number of victims to expect and their condition. -Fill out "Hospital Capability Sheet" with information from MRCC or Medcom. -Consult with Treatment Sector and establish ambulance loading zone. -When units are prepared to transport, "Transport" will advise MedCom and supply them with the following information: The number of victims going to a specific facility and their priority. Priority 1: (Red) Immediate Priority 2: (Yellow) Delayed Priority 3: (Green) Ambulatory Any special need victims; cardiac, burn, trauma, etc. -Advise Staging Group of location of loading zone and best routes for access. -Communicate within the LZ group the number of victims to be transported by air. -Air transported victims should be assigned to distant hospitals, unless the victims needs dictate otherwise. (Trauma Center, Burn Unit, etc.) -Request ambulances from Staging Group as needed. -Coordinate routing of victims to proper ambulance. -Maintain "Hospital Transportation Log", make sure METTAG is filled out appropriately. Keep one corner of tag. -Make sure ambulance drivers know which hospital to transport to and directions to hospital. -Maintain "Victim Tally Sheet" as victims are transported; complete totals at conclusion of incident. -Begin relieving or reducing staff as necessary. Advise MRCC or Medcom and EMS Operations when last patient is transported. -Remain until reassigned or all victims have been transported. -Report to EMS Operations for reassignment upon completion of tasks. -Additional Transportation Sector paperwork may be obtained from the Transportation Sector Portfolio located in the MCV.

STAGING OFFICER FOG #7 -Obtain briefing from EMS Operations -Radio designation "Staging" -Establish the location of a Staging Area and notify command. -EMS staging Area Should be distinct from Fire Staging Area, if at all possible, but may be in same general location. -Think BIG - Staging Area must be capable of accommodating large numbers of rescue units and ambulances. -Consider: safety and hazardous materials. -Area must be readily accessible. -Designate entrance and exit to Staging Area. -Divide Staging Area into two distinct and well marked areas for: BLS and ALS units. -Consider need for Secondary Staging Area as alternative should primary area become unusable. -Proceed to Staging Area. -Don "Staging Group" vest and review checklists and Incident Protocol cards. -Determine equipment and personnel needs in Staging Area; request same from EMS Operations. -Coordinate personnel assigned to Staging Area. -Ascertain from Transportation Sector location for ambulance loading zone and best route to zone. -Maintain "Unit Staging Log" -Distribute "Incident Protocol Cards" to all arriving EMS units. -Maintain a reserve of at least 2 BLS and 2 ALS transport vehicles. When reserve is depleted request additional units through Command or EMS Operations. -Send Proper Number and Types of Units to Ambulance Loading Zone on Request of the Transportation Group. -Additional Staging paperwork may be obtained from the Staging Group Portfolio located in the MCV. NOTE: Ensure that all personnel stay with their vehicles unless otherwise directed by command. If personnel are directed to assist in another function, ensure that the keys to the vehicles stay with each vehicle

Secondary Search - A complete, thorough search of the interior fire scene area after completing fire control, ventilation, and other required support activities. Section - The organizational level having functional responsibility for primary segments of incident operations, such as: Operations, Plans, Logistics, and Finance. Sectoring - The act of dividing an incident into manageable segments. There are two (2) methods of sectoring. They are: 1. Geographic - The dividing of areas through the use of Divisions 2. Functional - The dividing of the incident by specific tasks to be accomplished through the use of Groups or Strike Teams, Task Forces or Single Resources. Service Branch - A Branch within the Logistics Section responsible for service activities at an incident. Single Command - Command structure in which one individual has sole responsibility for COMMAND functions. Single Resource - An individual company or crew. Situation Status Unit (SITSTAT) - Functional unit within the Plans Section responsible for the analysis of a situation as it progresses. Size-Up - The mental evaluation of the various factors at an incident that lead to the determination of the problems that must be solved. Span of Control - The number of personnel that can be effectively supervised/managed by a superior officer. Under emergency conditions this number should be limited to between 3 and 7 (5 being optimal). The higher one is in the chain of command of the incident command system, the less personnel that can be effectively supervised by this one individual. This is due to the type and consequences of the decisions being made. Hazardous Material incidents, high-rise incidents, or incidents which are spread out over a larger than normal area, will also reduce the number of personnel which can be effectively supervised. Staging Area - The location where personnel and equipment are pooled and ready for immediate deployment in an incident. Staging Area Manager - Responsible for the coordination, support, and distribution of incoming resources.

Strategy - The overall plan that will be used to control the incident. The purpose towards which all incident activities are directed. Strategic goals are broad definitions of incident problems. Examples: Rescue, Extinguishment, Salvage, etc. Strategy is achieved by the completion of tactics. Stairwell Support - A high-rise logistics function responsible for moving equipment from Base to Staging when using the stairwell. Strategic Mode - The mode of attack as specified by the availability of resources compared to the resource requirements of the incident, i.e.: 1. Offensive Mode - Aggressive attack since available resources exceed that required by he incident. 2. Defensive Mode - A protective attack or defense since the incident requires more resources than are available. Strike Team - A functional element of up to five (5) units of the same type and under a common communications designation and a common leader. Supervisor - Functional title of any individual in-charge of a Division or Group. Supply Unit - Functional unit within the Support Branch of the Logistics Section responsible for ordering equipment/supplies required for incident operations. Support Branch - A Branch within the Logistics Section responsible for providing the personnel, equipment, and supplies to support incident operations. Tactics - Specific operations that must be accomplished to achieve the strategy. Tactics are both specific and measurable. Task Force - A functional element of up to five (5) units of mixed type under a common communications designation and a common leader. Technical Specialists - Anyone from anywhere with information that can assist in the control of the situation. These personnel initially report to the Planning Section but can be further assigned as the incident warrants. Transportation Group Supervisor - A functional unit in the Operations Section, under the Medical Branch when activated, that is responsible for ground and air transportation of patients from a multiple or mass casualty incident Triage Group Supervisor - A functional unit in the Operations Section, under the Medical Branch when activated, that is responsible for triaging patients at a multiple or mass casualty incident. Unified Command - The organizational method that allows all agencies or individuals having jurisdictional or legal responsibility towards an incident to contribute to the COMMAND function. Unit - The organizational element having functional responsibility for a specific incident's planning, logistics, or finance activity. Zone - A designated geographic area in which fire companies and apparatus respond. The immediate response area. Usually a smaller portion of a fire district.

TRIAGE OFFICER - FOG #3 ** NO TREATMENT IS TO BE DONE IN THE TRIAGE PHASE** Possible Exceptions: rapid correction of life-threatening problems, i.e., open airway or rapid bleeding control. First in unit will start triage, the most qualified paramedic will become the Triage Group and crew will become Triage Team: -Obtain briefing from EMS Operations. -Radio designation "Triage". -Don triage vest. -Determine equipment and personnel needs of Triage Team request same from EMS Operations, -Coordinate personnel assigned to Triage Team. -Distribute triage aprons with ribbons and supplies to Triage Team -Organize the Triage Team to begin initial triaging of victims, utilizing S.T.A.R.T. triage system. Assemble walking wounded and uninjured to a safe area -Coordinate transfer of victims by priority to appropriate Treatment Group. -CHECK ALL AREAS AROUND MCI SCENE for potential victims, walking wounded, ejected victims, etc. -Advise EMS Operations when initial triaging and tagging operations are complete. Begin relieving or reducing staff as necessary. -Report to EMS Operations for reassignment upon completion of tasks -Additional triage paperwork may be obtained from the Triage Group Portfolio located in the MCV.

TREATMENT SECTOR - FOG #4 -Obtain briefing from EMS Operations. Radio designation "Treatment". -Don treatment sector vest and review checklists. -Determine equipment and personnel needs in Treatment Area. Request same from EMS Operations. Consider assigning a "Documentation Aide" to assist with paperwork. -Coordinate personnel assigned to Treatment Area. -Direct personnel to either begin treatment on the victims where they lay or establish a centralized treatment area. -Establish Primary/Centralized Treatment Area (if needed). Think BIG - Treatment area must be capable of accommodating large numbers of victims and equipment. * Consider - Weather, safety, hazardous materials. * Area must be readily accessible. * Designate entrances and exit to area (called funnel points), On large scale incidents divide the Treatment Area into four (4) distinct and well marked areas. Use appropriate colored flags or tarps Red, Yellow, Green, and Black. -Designate Secondary Treatment Area as alternative should Primary Area become unstable, Inform EMS Operations of Primary and Secondary Treatment Area locations (if appropriate). -Complete "Treatment Group Log" as victims pass through Treatment Area. -Treatment Sector should NOT become involved in physical tasks. -Assign personnel to Treatment Areas based on medical capabilities. Personnel will become the Treatment Team. A Team Leader should be designated for each treatment area; Red Team Leader, Yellow Team Leader, and Green Team Leader: -Ensure that all victims are re-triaged through a secondary exam an the assessment is documented on the triage tag (METTAG). -Advise Transportation Group when victims have been prepared for transport. Notify Transportation Sector which hospital victim should be transported to. Evaluate victims by priority. -Begin relieving or reducing staff as necessary. Report to EMS Operations for reassignment upon completion of tasks. -Additional Treatment Group paperwork may be obtained from the Treatment Sector Portfolio located in the MCV.