policy and procedure - heartland fire & rescue outs all swat paramedic deployments shall be...

POLICY AND PROCEDURE

TITLE: TABLE OF CONTENTS

NUMBER: 500

DATE: 03/01/2012

of 1

500.00 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES

501.00 Tactical Paramedic Program

502.00 Firefighter Retrieval – Engine/Truck Status

503.00 Battalion Back‐Up Coverage

504.00 Single Resource Assignments

505.00 Downgrading to Basic Life Support Transport

506.00 Minimum Standard Wildland Equipment

507.00 Patient’s Personal Belongings

508.00 Modification of Medical Aid Responses

509.00 After Action Review Procedure

510.00 Accountability System Equipment

511.00 Emergency Vehicle Operation

512.00 PPE Care, Maintenance and Response Attire


TITLE: TACTICAL PARAMEDIC PROGRAM

NUMBER: 501.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 1 of 4

PURPOSE

It is the purpose of the Tactical Paramedic Program is to prevent and reduce incidents of injury and death to police, fire, and civilian victims of criminal violence, by administering immediate life support measures and safe evacuation during tactical operations. POLICY The department shall utilize this procedure to determine eligibility, training, equipment, call out process and command and control for Tactical Paramedics.

APPLICABILITY

Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon Fire Department.

DEFINITIONS

SWAT Tactical Paramedic – A Firefighter/Paramedic who has been selected to participate in, and

successfully completed and maintained the qualifications and training outlined in this procedure.

Call Out – When a SWAT Tactical Paramedic is summonsed for a SWAT mission.

AUTHORITY

Fire Chief



NUMBER: 501.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 2 of 4

PROCEDURE

Tactical Paramedics shall work in conjunction with the El Cajon Police Department SWAT team. They will respond to SWAT emergencies consisting of, high risk warrants and other missions as requested by the SWAT Commander. Tactical Paramedics will be specially trained in SWAT tactics and in providing emergency Paramedical care during SWAT actions. The Paramedics shall operate within the inner perimeter of the operation and perform as an intricate component of the team. Paramedics should not be specifically involved with any police action. Tactical Paramedics will be trained in SWAT tactics to enable them to respond appropriately and predictably in a tactical environment. Tactical Paramedics are permitted to carry an authorized firearm while deployed at a SWAT mission. The firearm may be utilized in any self‐defense situation while activated as part of SWAT. When not in use, the firearm shall remain stored in the SWAT Command Vehicle. At no time shall a firearm be brought into a City building unless it is done so during an organized training session or an activation involving a City building. ELIGIBILITY All team members shall meet the following minimum requirements to be considered for the SWAT program.

Application shall be voluntary.

Regular full time status.

Satisfactory or above ratings in all categories on last Performance review.

Pass annual physical fitness test.

Three year active commitment to the SWAT team.



NUMBER: 501.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 3 of 4

TRAINING Tactical Paramedics are required to successfully complete the 832 P.C. P.O.S.T. Certification Class and must quarterly qualify with their firearm in accordance to El Cajon Police specifications. Tactical Paramedics must successfully complete a Police SWAT Academy. The academy specifications will be designated by the El Cajon Police SWAT Commander. Tactical Paramedics must fulfill the minimum number of continued training hours as determined by the SWAT Commander to maintain active status in the SWAT Paramedic program. CALL OUTS

All SWAT Paramedic deployments shall be pre‐authorized by the Deputy Fire Chief of Operations Chief or Duty Battalion Chief.

Team members will be activated by SWAT pager and/or telephone. The Operations Chief or the Duty Chief shall be notified by the SWAT Commander of the impending activation in advance whenever possible for back‐staffing purposes.

All back‐filling options are to be exercised prior actual activation.

Any potential staffing reductions resulting from a SWAT Tactical Paramedic request shall be pre‐authorize by the Fire Chief or Operations Chief.

Activated SWAT members will report to the location given upon official activation notification.

At no time shall any Paramedic that has not been properly trained be allowed to function in the role of a SWAT Paramedic.

Qualified SWAT Paramedics will be distributed between the three Divisions.

Off‐duty SWAT Paramedics will be called first for activation. If a member is on duty at the time of activation, overtime personnel shall be called for relief prior to the Tactical Paramedic relinquishing his/her staffed position whenever possible to minimize effects on daily staffing levels. Management maintains full authority to deny an SWAT Tactical Paramedic request based upon the operational needs of the Fire Department at that time.



NUMBER: 501.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 4 of 4

EQUIPMENT

All required Tactical Paramedic equipment shall be provided by the El Cajon Police Department. It shall be the responsibility of the SWAT Paramedics to ensure that all Paramedical equipment is inventoried and replaced based upon use and expiration dates. COMMAND AND CONTROL

Upon SWAT activation Tactical Paramedics shall be under the command of the SWAT Commanding Officer. Paramedical protocol for the treatment of persons in a tactical environment shall be in compliance with the San Diego County Division of Emergency Paramedical Services.


TITLE: FIREFIGHTER RETRIEVAL – ENGINE/TRUCK

STATUS

NUMBER: 502.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 1 of 3

PURPOSE

To identify a process for retrieval of Fire Personnel when utilized to accompany ambulances to a

hospital.

APPLICABILITY

Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon, City of La Mesa, City of Lemon Grove.

DEFINITIONS

This guideline is in reference to the retrieval of Fire Personnel who ride as a third and/or fourth person

on an ambulance for assistance with critical patient care from an emergency scene to a receiving

hospital.

This guideline also identifies Engine/Truck status while staffing is reduced on that unit during the

transport/retrieval process.

NOTE

Due to the difference in medical transport systems among the Cities of El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lemon

Grove, this Guideline outlines one procedure for El Cajon and one procedure for both La Mesa and

Lemon Grove.

AUTHORITY

Fire Chief

PROCEDURE El Cajon For medical incidents requiring a Firefighter to assist with patient transport to Grossmont or Alvarado Hospitals:



STATUS

NUMBER: 502.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 2 of 3

The Engine/Truck shall be placed Out of Service (OOS) and the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified of unit’s status. The Engine/Truck shall follow and retrieve the firefighter from the receiving hospital. Once fully staffed, the Engine/Truck shall go to Available on Radio (AOR) from that location. Once placed back into service, the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified. Medical incidents requiring a Firefighter to assist with patient transport to a hospital other than Grossmont or Alvarado Hospitals: The Engine/Truck shall be placed Out Of Service (OOS) and the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified of unit status and for firefighter retrieval arrangement. The Engine/Truck Company Officer shall monitor the dispatch channel for responses in their area. It shall be at the discretion of that unit’s Company Officer to add that Unit to a call if they feel they can positively impacts the incident/patient outcome. Once fully staffed, that unit shall be place back into service and the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified. La Mesa and Lemon Grove Medical incidents requiring firefighter(s) to assist with patient transport to Grossmont, Alvarado or Paradise Valley Hospitals (PVH Lemon Grove Engines only): The Engine/Truck shall be placed OOS and the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified of the unit’s status. The Engine/Truck shall follow and retrieve the firefighter from the receiving hospital. Once fully staffed, the Engine/Truck shall go AOR from that location. Once placed back into service, the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified. Medical incidents requiring firefighter(s) to assist with patient transport to a hospital other than Grossmont, Alvarado or Paradise Valley Hospitals: Any time an Engine/Truck staffing is reduced to two personnel, the apparatus shall be placed OOS and the Duty Battalion shall be notified. The Company Officer will ensure arrangements are made through AMR Dispatch for a taxi to retrieve the firefighter. If any delay of firefighter retrieval is anticipated, the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified immediately for possible firefighter retrieval arrangements. The Company Officer shall monitor the Dispatch channel for responses in their area. It shall be at the discretion of that Company Officer to add that Unit to the call if they feel they can positively impacts



STATUS

NUMBER: 502.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 3 of 3

the incident/patient outcome. Once fully staffed, that unit shall be placed back into service and the Duty Battalion Chief shall be notified.


TITLE: BATTALION BACK‐UP COVERAGE

NUMBER: 503.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 1 of 2

PURPOSE

To provide adequate, timely Back‐up Chief Officer Coverage for emergency incident management. POLICY

Personnel assigned to the Back‐up Chief Officer responsibility shall adhere to the procedure for

response availability and capability requirements.

APPLICABILITY

Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon Fire Department, City of La Mesa Fire Department and City of

Lemon Grove Fire Department.

DEFINITIONS

Jurisdictional Boundary – The boundaries of the combined cities of El Cajon, La Mesa and Lemon

Grove.

Travel time – The time that it takes to travel from one point to another on city streets and highways

following the code three driving policy.

Emergency Response Capable vehicle – a vehicle that is capable of responding lights and siren in

compliance with the California Vehicle Code.

AUTHORITY

Fire Chief

PROCEDURE

The Back‐up Chief Officer responsibility is assigned to personnel on a rotating basis. An assignment

calendar shall be developed and distributed to all appropriate parties.


TITLE: BATTALION BACK‐UP COVERAGE

NUMBER: 503.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 2 of 2

Responsibilities of the Back‐up Chief Officer:

Remain positioned in a ready to respond status that allows for a travel time of 20 minutes or

less to the jurisdictional boundary.

Be available to respond to communications from the Communications Center through the use

of paging, radios and phones.

To place himself/herself in an available status when incidents within the jurisdiction are

anticipated to be more than 20 minutes in duration with the shift battalion chief committed.

Be available to respond in an emergency response capable vehicle at all times.

Refrain from any activities that would inhibit or delay a response throughout the duty rotation

cycle (i.e.: consuming alcohol, staying close to the vehicle).

Operate in accordance to the Heartland Fire & Rescue Take Home Vehicle Policy 104.00.


TITLE: SINGLE RESOURCE ASSIGNMENTS

NUMBER: 504.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 1 of 2

PURPOSE

To establish a fair and comprehensive method of tracking and distributing Single Resource Assignments

that maintains the operational effectiveness of the agency.

APPLICABILITY

Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon Fire Department, City of La Mesa Fire Department, and the

City of Lemon Grove Fire Department.

DEFINITIONS

LEMT – Line Emergency Medical Technician

LEMTP – Line Emergency Medical Technician Paramedic – LEMTP must be agency supported through

acquisition of required LEMPT equipment.

Qualified – Documented accomplishment of minimum qualifications based upon FireScope and

Heartland Fire & Rescue criteria.

ROSS – The Resource Ordering and Status System will be updated with qualified personnel annually

during the season of low fire activity.

AUTHORITY

Fire Chief

PROCEDURE

Assignments are to be offered based upon the established agency rotation, managed by

Heartland Communications. El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lemon Grove are to be recognized as

individual agencies on the Central Zone Overhead Assignment rotation list until further notice.

Line EMT and EMTP positions will be authorized to fill up to 2 requested positions per agency

rotation per request order.

All other position requests will be filled as a single resource request per agency rotation.


TITLE: SINGLE RESOURCE ASSIGNMENTS

NUMBER: 504.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 2 of 2

All assignments filled/offered will count toward a person’s rotation for all qualified positions.

i.e. if a person is qualified in multiple positions, rotation will be based upon single opportunity,

not by each individual qualified position.

Assignments offered will count towards that person’s rotation whether it is accepted, declined,

or unavailable for contact.

Tracking of Accepted, Declined or No Contact will be maintained by the Operations Chief.

Assignments will be offered in the following sequence:

1. To the agency up for rotation based upon the Heartland Communications listed agency

rotation.

2. To those from that agency who are qualified and pre‐listed in ROSS, based upon the established

rotation criteria outlined in this guideline.

The tracking of Single Resource Assignments will be the responsibility of the Operations Chief via an

assignment rotation list of qualified personnel. This rotation will be based upon the last assignment

offered and not based on last assignment filled.

Operations will maintain the tracking of Single Resource Assignments delegated to El Cajon, La Mesa,

and Lemon Grove qualified personnel via spreadsheet and an Assignment Board.

The annual updating of ROSS will be the responsibility of the Operations Chief.

It will be the responsibility of those requesting to be placed into ROSS to provide all documentations of

training necessary to qualify them for the position sought.


TITLE: DOWNGRADING TO BASIC LIFE SUPPORT TRANSPORT NUMBER: 505.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 1 of 1

PURPOSE

To establish a common approach to the medical downgrading of transporting units in El Cajon when applicable. While working within this guideline, it will remain the preferred method of operation to transport patients by way of an El Cajon resource if it can be accomplished without jeopardizing patient care. APPLICABILITY

Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon Fire Department.

DEFINITIONS

Medical Downgrading – Lowering responding transport capabilities from Advance Life Support (ALS),

to Basic Life Support (BLS).

AUTHORITY

Fire Chief

REFERENCE

County of San Diego Division of Emergency Medical Services Policy S‐412

PROCEDURE

In an effort to support Operational and training needs of the organization, the following guidelines

have been established for the purpose of downgrading medical aid responses within El Cajon:

When an El Cajon Medic Unit is the initial unit dispatched to an incident, that unit will transport both ALS and BLS level transports from the City of El Cajon jurisdiction.

When a non‐El Cajon Medic Unit is the initially dispatched unit to an El Cajon incident, the Company Officer at scene shall have the discretion of downgrading the transport to a BLS level. This includes El Cajon Medic units that are in an altered response level i.e. Third and Seventh Responder training status.


TITLE: MINIMUM STANDARD WILDLAND

EQUIPMENT

NUMBER: 506.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 1 of 3

PURPOSE

To provide a standard for wildland equipment accompaniment to be carried on all Heartland Fire &

Rescue engines.

APPLICABILITY

Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon Fire Department, City of La Mesa Fire Department, and the

City of Lemon Grove Fire Department.

DEFINITIONS

Strike Team Engine – The Engine identified as the primary response apparatus on the Zone Strike

Engine rotation list for each agency.

Engine – All Engines not identified as the agency’s primary Strike Engine.

NH – National Hose (thread)

NPSH – National Pipe Straight Hose (thread)

AUTHORITY

Fire Chief

PROCEDURE

Minimum Wildland Equipment Accompaniment for Heartland Fire & Rescue Strike Team Engines:

HOSE

800’ of 1 ½ “ single jacket WL hose total. A minimum of 3‐hose packs of 200’ each will be pre‐

assembled. “T” to be pre‐attached to the inside bundle of each pack for lateral capabilities

every 200’.

300’ of 1” single jacket WL hose w/ NPSH threads



EQUIPMENT

NUMBER: 506.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 2 of 3

HARDWARE

6 – Total 1 ½ FSS Ts (1 ½ “ NH thread and 1” NPSH thread)

3 – WL Hose clamps with Sheaths

6‐ 1” WL nozzles (NPSH)

2‐ 1 ½ “ WL nozzles (at least one w/ interchangeable tips, minimum one of each tips: 3/8”; 1/2”)

TOOLS

1 hand tool per position (can be any combination of the following wildland hand tools: wildland

shovel, McCloud, or Pulaski)

1 ‐ 2 mill/flat bastard files for sharpening tools

ADDITIONAL REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

Approved PPE Per Person

1 VHF Radio per position

3 Boxes MRE

4 Cases H2O

Minimum Wildland accompaniment for all Heartland Fire & Rescue Engines:

HOSE

600’ of 1 ½ “ single jacket WL hose total. A minimum of 3‐hose packs of 200’ each will be pre‐

assembled. “T” to be pre‐attached to the inside bundle of each pack for lateral capabilities

every 200’,

200’ of 1” single jacket WL hose w/ NPSH threads

HARDWARE

4 ‐ Total 1 ½ FSS T’s (1 ½ “ NH thread and 1” NPSH thread)

2 – WL Hose clamps with Sheaths

4‐ 1” WL nozzles (NPSH)



EQUIPMENT

NUMBER: 506.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 3 of 3

2‐ 1 ½ “ WL nozzles (at least one w/ interchangeable tips ‐ minimum one of each tips: 3/8”;

1/2”)

TOOLS

2 hand tools (can be any combination of the following wildland hand tools: wildland shovel,

McCloud, or pulaski)

ADDITIONAL REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

Approved PPE Per Person

3 VHF Radios

1 case H20


TITLE: PATIENT’S PERSONAL BELONGINGS

NUMBER: 507.00

DATE: 03/01/2012

Page 1 of 1

PURPOSE

To establish a common approach to accessing the personal belongings of a patient and to protect Heartland Fire & Rescue employees and the City from allegations of wrong doing. APPLICABILITY

Heartland Fire & Rescue, City of El Cajon Fire Department, City of La Mesa Fire Department and City of

Lemon Grove Fire Department.

DEFINITIONS

Personal Belongings – Purse, Wallet, Backpack, dresser or any other item containing any of the

patient’s personal effects.

AUTHORITY

Fire Chief

PROCEDURE

It is necessary to access a patient’s personal belongings from time to time in order to access vital medical information or ID/ Insurance cards. When accessing a patient’s personal belongings, the following guidelines shall be observed. The same guidelines shall apply to the search of quarters outside the perimeter of the patient’s view:

When appropriate, have the patient obtain the required items him/herself.

Ask the patient if a family member or an entrusted person on scene can obtain the required items or witness the process if performed by Fire personnel.

If law enforcement is present, request that they obtain the items or witness the process if performed by Fire personnel.

If as a last resort, the above options are not viable, Fire personnel must access the personal belongings of a patient it shall be in the presence of another Fire Department member to serve as a witness. It is strongly encouraged that this option be documented in the Patient Care Report and/or the Firehouse Report.


TITLE: MODIFICATION OF MEDICAL AID RESPONSES

NUMBER: 508.00

DATE: 12/5/2013

Page 1 of 3

PURPOSE

To establish a common approach to medical aid response standards based on nationally recognized scientifically validated criteria. POLICY

Established criteria for modifying medical aid responses in El Cajon jurisdiction

APPLICABILITY

Heartland Fire & Rescue‐ El Cajon Fire Department, La Mesa fire Department, Lemon Grove Fire

Department.

DEFINITIONS

HCFA ‐ Heartland Communications Facility Authority

MPDS – Medical Priority Dispatch System

ALS – Advanced Life support

BLS – Basic Life Support

EMS ‐ Emergency Medical Service

AUTHORITY

Fire Chief

REFERENCE

N/A



NUMBER: 508.00

DATE: 12/5/2013

Page 2 of 3

PROCEDURE

In an effort to support operational needs of the organization and to ensure delivery of the appropriate

level of medical care, the following guidelines have been established regarding medical aid responses

within El Cajon:

All Heartland units will be dispatched as quickly as possible in an effort to respond to requests for service in the quickest possible manner. All EMS responses will initially consist of a minimum of one ALS fire apparatus (engine or truck) and one ALS ambulance.

If HCFA personnel have established the 911 call to be a Level “O”, “A”, or Level “B” response, the Company Officer may elect to modify the response to the call (if the call is within the El Cajon City limits). The Company Officer may seek input from the personnel assigned to the medic unit prior to making the response modification.

If the Company Officer decides to modify a Level “A” response, the medic unit will respond no code to the incident and the ALS fire apparatus (engine or truck) will cancel. It is important to note that the medic unit personnel can always re ‐ request that the appropriate ALS fire apparatus (engine or truck) respond for assistance.

If the Company Officer decides to modify a Level “B” response, an ALS fire apparatus (engine or truck) and an ALS ambulance will respond. The closest unit in proximity to the call will respond code 3 and the more distant unit will respond no code. In the case where both units are responding from the same location, the medic unit will respond code 3 and the engine/truck will respond code 2.

Fire personnel may not downgrade an HCFA established Level “B” call to a Level “A” call.

911 calls for medical assistance that have not been screened by HCFA personnel using MPDS shall not be modified by field personnel. Sometimes the screening process can create a delay in assigning a call level. Crews are not to delay their response while waiting for the response level to be assigned.



NUMBER: 508.00

DATE: 12/5/2013

Page 3 of 3

Personnel shall not modify any “FALL” call where the age of the patient is reported to be 65

years of age or greater. Typical reasons why a call will not be screened are: high volume in

dispatch, language barrier with the caller, calls originating from a medical facility and calls

originating from the Police Department.

This policy only applies to incidents within the city limits of El Cajon and only when Heartland Fire & Rescue units are assigned to the incident. If a first response unit from another jurisdiction is responding into El Cajon, the response shall not be modified. If a Heartland Fire & Rescue (El Cajon) ambulance is on scene first and performs a medical assessment through direct patent contact and does not require assistance from an ALS fire apparatus (engine or truck), they may cancel that unit.

If an ALS ambulance from outside El Cajon is responding into El Cajon and the patient has been evaluated by an ALS fire apparatus (engine or truck) personnel, the Company Officer may elect to cancel the ALS ambulance and request a BLS ambulance to respond in lieu (if ETA for BLS is 20 minutes or less).


TITLE: AFTER ACTION REVIEW PROCEDURE

NUMBER: 509.00

DATE: 08/28/2013

Page 1 of 9

PURPOSE

To establish a consistent process for evaluating operations on emergency incidents as a training tool and to

examine the performance of operational strategies and tactics deployed. The overall goal of the After Action

Review (AAR) Program is to improve safety and operational effectiveness of all fire personnel. Heartland Fire &

Rescue has a duty to its members to provide effective feedback from emergency incidents and continually strive

to improve effectiveness and safety in emergency operations.

The objective of this policy is to provide all Department members the experience of those who actually

participated in the incident; to highlight what went well and to address areas of concern. The process will be

positive and constructive in nature to better achieve maximum benefits. This process of incident analysis will

improve future performance by building upon successes, identifying deficiencies in procedures or department

policies, and identifying training needs. By examining an incident with these goals in mind, we will provide all

personnel with an opportunity to identify, examine, and employ best work practices based upon experience

and not entirely on theory.

Heartland Fire & Rescue shall use the After Action Review (AAR) as an educational tool for Incident

Commanders, Command Staff, Battalion Chiefs, Company Officers, and Fire Personnel to:

• highlight positive performance, good decision‐making, leadership skills, and tactics;

• show personnel the impact their actions had on the general outcome of the incident;

• compare how different strategies and tactics affected the outcome of the incident;

• identify safety and/or tactical concerns during operations;

• serve as a catalyst for revising tactical plans and Standard Operating Procedures;

• help identify additional training needs;

• disseminate critical lessons learned;

• identify fire prevention and code enforcement deficiencies;

• identify contributing factors to firefighter injuries and fatalities.



NUMBER: 509.00

DATE: 08/28/2013

Page 2 of 9

POLICY

N/A

APPLICABILITY

Heartland Fire & Rescue‐ El Cajon Fire Department, La Mesa Fire Department, Lemon Grove Fire Department.

DEFINITION

N/A

AUTHORITY

Fire Chief

REFERENCE

N/A

PROCEDURE

There are two types of After Action Reviews that should be performed: Informal and Formal. Both are vitally

important for the professional development and safety of firefighters.

Informal AAR‐ This review is usually initiated on scene by the Incident Commander or Company Officer prior to

leaving the incident. This “Tailboard Review” is a brief discussion to identify the effectiveness of strategies and

tactics used during the incident. This informal review is a valuable educational tool and is most effective when

performed on scene or directly following the stabilization of the incident.

Formal AAR‐ This incident review is utilized for critiquing larger, more complex, or tactically challenging

incidents. A Formal AAR will be required of any incident involving a Firefighter injury which requires emergency

care or as requested by the Fire Chief or his/her designee.

The Training Chief will act as the AAR Coordinator to lead and direct the preparation of the AAR, its

presentation, and the discussion of the incident response.



NUMBER: 509.00

DATE: 08/28/2013

Page 3 of 9

The Training Chief may elect to appoint a Chief Officer other than the Incident Commander to be the AAR

Coordinator, provided he/she was not assigned to the incident.

The AAR Coordinator will notify the Incident Commander of record that a Formal AAR is to be conducted. The

Incident Commander is then responsible for coordinating the compilation of information for the AAR, including

Company Officers’ “First‐In” interviews, fire reports, pictures, maps, diagrams, and copies of all incident radio

communications from the dispatch center.

The AAR Coordinator will be responsible for coordinating the date and location of the AAR. It will always be the

goal to deliver the AAR as close to the date of the initial incident as possible. Every effort must be made to have

all personnel from the incident present at the AAR. The Training Chief shall notify and include all resources,

units, and personnel from responding outside agencies/disciplines (ex. FD, PD, SDGE, MTS, Public Works, Fire

Investigation, etc.) to participate in the AAR. It is understood that due to scheduling conflicts all personnel may

not be able to attend the AAR. Video recording of the AAR is strongly advised and will prove useful in

disseminating vital information to those unable to attend.

A copy of the Formal AAR will be kept on file by the department Training Division.

When to Conduct a Formal AAR:

Structure fire where unusual extinguishment problems existed

Any incident that an unusual event occurs e.g.; explosion, collapse, etc.

Close call incident where a firefighter experiences a near‐miss or when injury occurs

Major Hazardous Materials incident

Mass Casualty Incident

Specialty Rescue Operations with multi‐company involvement

Any large scale event or incident (multiple alarm fire, major vegetation fire, etc.)

As requested by the Fire Chief or his/her designee



NUMBER: 509.00

DATE: 08/28/2013

Page 4 of 9

Preparing for a Formal AAR

Preparation is essential for delivery of an educational and thought‐provoking AAR. Some key points to

remember in preparing for an AAR include:

The AAR is a training function to improve emergency operations, not an attempt to find fault

Horseplay or criticism during an AAR will not be tolerated

Ground rules must be set for an open, honest, and respectful discussion

Every action had a reason; finding out “why” may assist in future tactical decisions

Talk about what worked, what didn’t, what could be done better next time, and how to train to

accomplish those goals

This Section Left Blank Intentionally



NUMBER: 509.00

DATE: 08/28/2013

Page 5 of 9

Heartland Fire & Rescue values open and honest communication throughout the organization and understands

that communication strengthens unity and morale in the department. We must strive for perfection in our

operations while being willing to share our mistakes and allow others to learn from them. It is in the collective

sharing of this information that Heartland Fire & Rescue will continue to build organizational trust and

operational excellence.

FORMAL AFTER ACTION REVIEW WORKSHEET

Officer_____________________________________ Company ___________

Complete the areas of the form in which you have information to benefit the review. It may not be

necessary to fill out every area listed. Submit the completed form to Chief Officer in charge of Training

within 48 hours of the incident.

Dispatch information

Time of alarm? _________________

Was the dispatch information accurate?_____________________

Was the map page accurate? _____________________________

Was the Pre‐Plan accurate? ______________________________

Was the MDC on‐line and working? ________________________

Alarm Response

Was the response appropriate/adequate?__________________________________

Did the closest company respond? _______________________________________

Any unusual response issues (trolley, road closure, traffic, etc.)?________________

Was the apparatus placement appropriate?________________________________

Were non‐fire vehicles obstructing access?_________________________________

Could the response be improved?________________________________________

Size Up

Was the size‐up adequate and clear?_____________________________________

Was Command established?____________________________________________

Were appropriate, prioritized orders given?_________________________________

Were the appropriate amount and type of resources available on scene?_________

Rescue

Was rescue potential considered? ________________________________

Was rescue a problem? _______ __

Was it a coordinated effort? _____________________________________

Could rescue efforts be improved? _____________________________ _

Exposures

Exterior exposure problems? ________

Interior exposure problems? ________

How were exposures protected? ________

Could exposure protection be improved? __________________________

Fire Strategy

What was the leader’s intent?___________________________________________

What was the strategy?________________________________________________

Did the strategy or overall goal change?___________________________________

Was the attack plan effective?___________________________________________

Could the overall strategy have been improved?_____________________________

Safety

Were Utilities secured in a timely manner?_________________________________

Was RIC established?_________________________________________________

Was an Accountability Officer assigned?___________________________________

Was the Accountability Tag System utilized by crews in IDLH?_________________

Were hazards identified and communicated to IC and personnel on the incident?________________

Was the safety of the public considered?__________________________________

Was Rehab initiated?_________________________________________________

Ventilation

How was ventilation accomplished? _____

Was ventilation coordinated with Fire Attack? _________________

Could ventilation efforts be improved? _______

Confinement/Extinguishment

Was confinement strategy effective? _______ _

How did fire extend? ___________________

Were there adequate hose lines/gpms on the fire?___________________________

Could tactics be improved? _______ _

Was water supply adequate? ____________________________________________

Salvage & Overhaul

What action was taken? __________________ ____

Was it effective? ___________ ____

Could it have been improved? ____ ____

Apparatus Placement/Staging

Did the first‐in units use the most effective location available? _______ _

Were there access issues to the incident location? ____________________________

Was the Truck able to access the structure (if applicable)? _____________________

Could placement of apparatus have been improved? ______

Investigation

Was fire scene preserved? ________

Was fire cause suspicious? ________

Appropriate comments on investigation ____________

____ __________

____ __________

Command

Who took initial command? ______ _

Where was command post location? ______ _

Was location effective? _____ __

Was command transferred? _____ _ _

How was transfer achieved? _______ _

Was transfer effective? Why? ________

Was it clear who was in command? ______________________

What positions of the ICS were filled? _____ ________

Was divisioning used? _ __________

Was it effective? _ _____________

Were ICS assignments clear & understood? ________ _

Conclusions & Recommendations

List all recommendations on policies, procedures, SOGs, and specific lessons learned:

________ __ _

________ __ _

_______ _ __

________ __ _

Plot Map (To be completed by First‐In Officer) Please include fire building, location of units, hydrants, main

sizes, hose lines, appropriate features of structure, utility shut off, etc.

Incident Address: _______________________________________

Officer Creating Plot Map: _________________________________

PROCEDURE

TITLE: ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM EQUIPMENT

NUMBER: 510.00

DATE: 9/21/2012

Page 1 of 4

PURPOSE

To establish a consistent method of maintaining Heartland Fire & Rescue’s Accountability System

Equipment.

POLICY Accuracy of all accountability systems will be the responsibility of all personnel. All MDC and Accountability systems shall reflect an accurate depiction of personnel and positioning at the beginning of each shift through the Daily accountability Check, and shall be maintained as needed throughout the entirety of each shift. APPLICABILITY

Heartland Fire & Rescue‐ El Cajon Fire Department, La Mesa Fire Department, Lemon Grove Fire

Department.

AUTHORITY

Fire Chief

REFERENCE

San Diego Operational Area Policy #5‐A dated 2/1/2012

PROCEDURE

To insure that all Accountability System components are in‐place and reflect an accurate display of unit

personnel, seat assignment, and are in serviceable condition whenever a unit is in service.

PROCEDURE


NUMBER: 510.00

DATE: 9/21/2012

Page 2 of 4

Daily Accountability Checks Shall Include:

Mobile Data Computer (MDC)

MDC is to reflect appropriate staffing configuration from the onset of shift

Company Officer is responsible for accuracy of daily accountability

Update immediately as required with personnel movement throughout the shift

Must be accurate to ensure accountability at incidents

Tag System Placement

Confirm Accountability Tags (and Company Tags if appropriate) are attached to metal ring on left

shoulder strap of BA with proper seat assignments for all positions at beginning of shift

Equipment Inventory: Engine and Truck

Accountability Tag for each BA with appropriate seat designator

Captain – Tag #1

Engineer – Tag #2

Firefighter (behind Captain) – Tag #3

Firefighter (behind Engineer) – Tag #4

Company Tag for Captain and Chief Officer BAs

Accountability Clipboard (stored in an accessible location in the cab of each apparatus)

Writing utensils

Timer

Accountability Tracking Reports (ATRs), minimum of five

PROCEDURE


NUMBER: 510.00

DATE: 9/21/2012

Page 3 of 4

Equipment Inventory: Ambulances

NOTE: The Tag numbers assigned at the beginning of the shift will follow those persons on that

ambulance throughout the shift, regardless of seat/position rotation.

Accountability Tag for each BA with appropriate seat designators.

Driver ‐ Tag #1

Passenger Side Firefighter‐Paramedic ‐ Tag #2

Reserve Firefighter‐Tag #3

Company Tag on BA with Accountability Tag #1

Equipment Inventory: Command Vehicles

Accountability Tag for BA

Company Tag

Accountability Clipboard

Writing utensils

Timer

Accountability Tracking Reports (ATRs)

PROCEDURE


NUMBER: 510.00

DATE: 9/21/2012

Page 4 of 4

Reserve Apparatus Accountability System

There may be certain situations that require additional systems to be placed in service, such as up‐

staffing for major events, backfilling engines for strike teams, or lost/damaged tags. For this purpose,

spare “BLANK” tags will be kept in the “move up boxes” in the Captains’ offices of Stations 6, 10, 11. In

addition, pre‐labeled tags for routinely used reserve units (i.e. Engine 206, Engine 209) will be kept in

the move up boxes at those respective stations. If there are no pre‐labeled tags available, blank red

engine tags will be utilized to label the BAs. A permanent marker shall be used to label the unit

number and identify the seat assignment on the Accountability Tags and Company Tag. For example, if

Engine 8 was out on strike team assignment, the replacement engine Accountability Tags would be

labeled “E208‐1, E208‐2, E208‐3, and E208‐4” and the Company Tag would be labeled “E208.” The

marker labeling is to be removed at the conclusion of its use with denatured alcohol.

REMINDER: El Cajon and La Mesa will utilize the 200 series Engine identifiers only if the original engine

is still in service. If the original engine is out of service and a reserve engine is taking its place, the

replacing engine assumes the original engine’s designator i.e. E8 and not E208. This holds true for El

Cajon Ambulances.

Lemon Grove will utilize this same numbering sequence except that the 200 series will be 300.

All tags are to be replaced in their identified stored location immediately upon the apparatus going out

of service.

Passport Accountability System

The previous accountability system, the Passport System, will be retained as a backup in the event an

MDC is not installed or available on an apparatus. In this event, the Passport System of plastic/Velcro

name tags will be put in service as an additional means of incident personnel management alongside

the current system.

Lost or Damaged Tags

In the event Accountability Tags are lost or damaged, temporary replacement(s) must be placed in

service immediately for crew safety. The Duty Battalion Chief is to be notified of lost or damaged

PROCEDURE


NUMBER: 510.00

DATE: 9/21/2012

Page 5 of 4

Accountability equipment immediately for permanent replacement(s) to be ordered. At no time shall

an apparatus or BA be placed in service without the appropriate Accountability Tag and/or Company

Tag in place.

Additional Accountability Tracking Report (ATR) Forms

Additional ATRs are available for printable download through Heartland Fire & Rescue’s Website. The

ATRs are located by selecting the “Employees” section from the website homepage, then selecting

“Forms,” and choosing “Accountability Tracking Report Form.” Adequate supplies of ATRs are to be

kept in the Accountability Clipboard.

Intra‐Agency Time Exchanges and Overtime

During Intra‐Agency Time Exchanges (HFR P&P 108.00 4/01/2012) and Overtime opportunities, it will

be the responsibility of the exchanging personnel to transfer their department‐specific BAs and update

the Accountability Tags to reflect the apparatus they are assigned to. Upon completion of the

assignment, the proper BA for that unit will be replaced with the Accountability Tags attached.


TITLE: Emergency Vehicle Operation

NUMBER: 511.00

DATE: 02/05/2015

Page 1 of 6

PURPOSE

To provide for a common approach to ensure safe emergency vehicle operations.

APPLICABILITY


DEFINITIONS

California Basic Speed Law: No person shall drive a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than is

reasonable or prudent having due regard for weather, visibility, the traffic on, and the surface and

width of, the highway, at a speed which endangers the safety of persons or property.

Due Regard: A reasonably careful person performing similar duties and under similar circumstances,

would act in the same manner. This includes, but is not limited to, the concept that an emergency

vehicle should exercise reasonable driving tactics intended to avoid all traffic collisions.

Code Three: The operation of an authorized department vehicle in response to an emergency call, or

while actively engaged in an emergency call, but not returning from an emergency call, when such

emergency requires an expeditious response. Only those personnel, who are properly trained,

licensed, and whose duties necessitate driving Code Three shall do so.

Code Two: All regular operation of authorized department vehicles except for that which involves the

use of lights and sirens. This includes routine driving and non‐emergency responses.

AUTHORITY

Fire Chief

REFERENCE

California Vehicle Code (CVC) Sections 21055, 21056 and 22350, NFPA 1500



NUMBER: 511.00

DATE: 02/05/2015

Page 2 of 6

PROCEDURE

Fire Department vehicles shall always be operated with caution and courtesy at all times. In addition to

the principles of the California Basic Speed Law, the Vehicle Code does not exempt emergency vehicles

from driving with due regard for public safety.

Any person driving or riding as a passenger in a department vehicle shall have their seatbelt on at all

times when the vehicle is in motion. It is the operator’s responsibility to ensure that all passengers

have their seatbelts fastened. The lone exception to the seatbelt requirement is when patient care in

the back of an ambulance does not momentarily allow for it. Every effort shall be made by Fire

Department personnel to resume wearing a seat belt when in the back of an ambulance, as soon as

possible.

Anytime a Fire Department vehicle is not operating Code Three (including Code Two responses to 911

calls), the vehicle must be operated in accordance with all applicable traffic laws.

Whenever a fire apparatus is parked, besides in quarters, the vehicle will be chocked on the engineer’s

side of the apparatus, on the downhill side when applicable. When two chocks are available, both sides

of the tire shall be chocked. Apparatus not equipped with chocks (i.e. ambulances, staff vehicles, etc.)

are exempt from this clause.

BACKING

The ultimate responsibility of backing rests solely on the operator of the vehicle. A spotter will be used

as a backer when available.



NUMBER: 511.00

DATE: 02/05/2015

Page 3 of 6

Prior to backing, the operator shall inform the spotter(s) of the intended route. Use only the four

approved hand signals to guide the vehicle. In addition to the “STOP” hand signal, shout “STOP” for all

emergency stops.

Turn rear to LEFT Turn rear to RIGHT

Emergency Stop or Stop Come Straight Back



NUMBER: 511.00

DATE: 02/05/2015

Page 4 of 6

At all times during backing maneuvers:

Emergency lights will be activated (additional rear working lights, if available, are encouraged)

The operator will have their window rolled down.

The operator will not be wearing a headset.

All personnel will exit the vehicle and assist with backing.

The backer will be located on the driver’s side of the vehicle, so that they have a clear view of

the driver in the side view mirror and a clear view of the rear of the vehicle. The driver shall

only follow signals from the backer to avoid confusion caused by multiple spotters.

Eye contact with the backer will be maintained throughout the operation. If at any time, the

driver loses sight of the backer, the vehicle is to be immediately stopped.

A backup camera is not to be used in place of a backer and is not to be used with the vehicle in

motion.

If backing occurs at night, a hand light shall be used by the backer.

If no backer is available, then it shall be the responsibility of the operator to survey the area for

obstacles and hazards prior to performing the backing maneuver.

During times of technical backing needs such as obstacle congestion or unusual maneuvering, the

company officer should be positioned at the most advantageous point to survey the entire backing

maneuver, paying close attention to the entire scene, traffic control, crew positions, topography

changes, personnel protective equipment and the path of the apparatus.

CODE THREE DRIVING

When an emergency vehicle is operating “Code Three” the sirens and warning lights must be in

use at all times the vehicle is in motion. The “Hi‐Lo” tone is not an authorized sound and is not

to be used.

Code Three driving shall never violate the Basic Speed Law.

Emergency vehicle operators shall never employ aggressive techniques to force other drivers to

yield the right‐of‐way.

Code Three driving is not to be regularly used on the freeway/highway. The use of lights and

sirens on the freeway/highway should be limited to operating on the shoulder and with slowed



NUMBER: 511.00

DATE: 02/05/2015

Page 5 of 6

or stopped traffic in the lanes. The use of rear amber warning lights is permitted for

freeway/highway responses.

Passing is permissible on the left only. Exceptions: when vehicles are in the left turn lane,

passing the vehicles is permitted on the right side. When using a designated “right turn only”

lane, passing is permitted on the right side, but only with extreme caution. When a vehicle does

not yield the right of way and has stopped in such a manner that passing on the left is not

possible, then passing is permitted on the right side, but only with extreme caution.

When approaching an intersection, the operator shall reduce the speed of an emergency

vehicle so as to allow the vehicle to come to a complete stop, if necessary, based on the

position and actions of cross and opposing vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Prior to movement

through the intersection, the operator of the emergency vehicle shall visually account for the

vehicles in each of the lanes of the cross and opposing traffic.

It is permissible to use oncoming lanes at intersections if it is clear and extreme caution is used.

When blocked at an intersection, whether by signal or traffic, and passage via opposing traffic

lane is not possible, turn off all emergency warning devices and wait for the light to change. Do

not force other drivers into the intersection.

Operators shall maintain situational awareness of other responding vehicles at all times.

Operators should coordinate their response routes with other emergency vehicles which may

be responding Code Three in the same area. Actions to support this practice include

announcing anticipated intersections crossings via radio and use of the Automatic Vehicle

Locator (AVL) system on the Mobile Data Computer (MDC). Operators are reminded that the

use of AVL to track other vehicles is not 100% accurate and should not be relied upon

accordingly.

Units responding from the same location shall take the same route unless the incidents

operational needs require approaching from different directions.

At railroad crossings, emergency vehicles shall slow enough to only proceed once it is visually

confirmed that there is no imminent rail traffic. Apparatus shall never be parked on railroad or

trolley tracks for any reason.



NUMBER: 511.00

DATE: 02/05/2015

Page 6 of 6

EMERGENCY ENCOUNTERED ENROUTE

If while on an emergency response, a unit encounters another incident, (fire, traffic, medical, etc.),

that unit will stop to investigate, advise Dispatch if the unit is required to remain at new incident, and

request additional resources for the initial response if needed.

POLICIES & PROCEDURES

TITLE: PPE CARE, MAINTENANCE AND

RESPONSE ATTIRE

NUMBER: 512.00

DATE: 2‐25‐15

Page 1 of 9

PURPOSE

To standardize the use of personal protective clothing and equipment within the Heartland Fire and Rescue cooperative agencies. To ensure the protection, health and safety of emergency response personnel during emergency and non‐emergency operations. To make certain all personnel are in compliance with applicable NFPA standards. AUTHORITY

Fire Chief

APPLICABILITY



Personnel shall adhere to the following procedures during emergency and non‐emergency operations. DEFINITIONS ELEMENTS – Individual, compliant pieces of PPE, that when worn together as an ensemble, provide protection to the upper and lower torso, arms, legs, head, hands and feet. FLAME RESISTANCE (FR) – Flame Resistance can be an inherent property of a material, or it can be imparted by a specific treatment. INDEPENDENT SERVICE PROVIDER (ISP) – An independent third party utilized by an organization to perform one or any combination of advanced inspection, advanced cleaning, and/or repair service. INHERENT FLAME RESISTANCE (IFR) – Flame Resistance that is naturally derived from the essential characteristics of a fiber or polymer.



RESPONSE ATTIRE

NUMBER: 512.00

DATE: 2‐25‐15

Page 2 of 9

NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION AGENCY (NFPA) – Agency responsible for the design, performance, testing, and certification of protective clothing and equipment used by the fire service. All references to NFPA compliancy shall refer to the most recent edition. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) – Compliant protective clothing and equipment that when worn properly provide protection from some of the risks involved in emergency operations. PPE EQUIPMENT OFFICER – The individual responsible for selection, care, maintenance and approval of department PPE. LEVEL OF RESPONSE ATTIRE FULL STRUCTURAL FIREFIGHTING PPE – Shall consist of department provided, NFPA 1971 compliant structural firefighting helmet, eye protection, protective hood, structural firefighting jacket, structural firefighting pant, structural firefighting gloves, structural firefighting boots and a Self‐Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). Removal of goggles from helmets may be approved to preserve their condition during live fire training. MODIFIED STRUCTURAL FIREFIGHTING PPE – Shall consist of department provided, NFPA 1971 compliant structural firefighting helmet, eye protection, structural firefighting jacket, structural firefighting pant, leather or extrication gloves (medical gloves are permitted while performing patient care) and protective toe boots. FULL WILDLAND FIREFIGHTING PPE – Shall consist of department provided, NFPA 1977 compliant wildland or structural firefighting helmet with shroud, goggles, wildland jacket, wildland pant, wildland gloves, leather boots (wildland boots where agency provided) and web gear including fire shelter. Note: Nomex or FR station pants and an IFR cotton, wool or FR t‐shirt (long sleeved t‐shirt if using a single lined jacket) must be worn under wildland firefighting PPE jacket. Short sleeve t‐shirt may be worn when wearing a dual lined wildland jacket. All t‐shirts worn while engaging in wildland or vegetation fire operations shall be 100%, non‐dyed, cotton or FR material with no “silk screen” or “heat transfer” identifications applied to them. Single layering wildland PPE shall consist of department approved, NFPA compliant helmet with shroud and goggles, gloves, web gear including fire shelter, wildland boots (where agency provided), non‐lined wildland jacket and a NFPA 1975/1977 dual compliant pant. A long or short sleeve 100%, non‐dyed, cotton or FR material with no silk screen or heat transfer identifications applied to them.



RESPONSE ATTIRE

NUMBER: 512.00

DATE: 2‐25‐15

Page 3 of 9

MEDICAL AID PPE – Shall consist of standard precaution PPE (gloves, goggles, masks, gowns) as dictated by the needs of the incident. Issued NFPA 1999 compliant EMS jackets may be provided to personnel for use as needed. Modified structural PPE maybe worn when applicable. At no time will structural PPE be worn with the thermal liners removed. HEARING PROTECTION – Appropriate hearing protection shall be taken when personnel are exposed to dangerous noise levels for extended periods. Hearing Protection may be used with any PPE ensemble at the discretion of the individual and/or Company Officer. PROCEDURES All personnel are responsible for proper utilization of PPE during emergency and non‐emergency operations. Upon the acceptance date of this policy, all personnel shall wear only department approved PPE to meet replacement needs. The intent of this policy is to recognize a minimum standard of protection. The use of a higher level of PPE may be at the discretion individuals performing tasks. Company Officers shall ensure that personnel comply with appropriate PPE use as described in this policy. EMERGENCY INCIDENTS – Unless otherwise directed by the Company Officer, the following are the MININUM PPE requirements during these specified emergency operations:

Fires‐ (Structure, Vehicle, Dumpster, Aircraft Responses, Natural Gas Responses) – Full Structural Firefighting PPE. Note: Pump operators shall have a SCBA readily available, but not necessary on their person, during pumping operations. Pump operators may have the option of donning a utility leather glove or extrication glove during pumping operations. During overhaul operations, the company officer may modify the level of PPE required.

Vehicle Accidents – Personnel operating on an Engine, Truck, Rescue or department ALS ambulance shall wear a minimum of Modified Structural Firefighting PPE. All personnel shall follow the department High Visibility Roadway Response requirements. Hoods and SCBA’s shall be worn at the Company Officers discretion.



RESPONSE ATTIRE

NUMBER: 512.00

DATE: 2‐25‐15

Page 4 of 9

Wildland and Vegetation Fires – Full Wildland Firefighting PPE.

Single resource/Overhead position – Single layer (NFPA 1975/1977 dual compliant) wildland PPE may be worn with Fire Chief approval.

Illegal Burns, Rubbish, Small Grass and Tree Fires – Company Officer shall determine the appropriate level of PPE required.

Hazardous Materials ‐ Full Structural Firefighting PPE. SCBA’s shall be worn at the Company Officers discretion.

Swiftwater – Class C uniform. All personnel shall refrain from donning structural firefighting pant, jacket and helmet or wildland helmet. A leather or extrication glove may be used. Personal Flotation Devices (PFD) shall be worn by emergency personnel while working within 10 feet of the water bank. Rain gear and/or bunker boots may be worn at the Company Officers discretion. This is usually reserved for personnel not working within 10 feet of the water bank.

Trench Rescue – Wildland jacket and pant, wildland helmet or structure helmet or rescue helmet, protective toe boots, leather or extrication gloves and safety glasses.

Technical Rescue‐ Wildland jacket and pant or structure PPE may be worn as determined by the Company Officer. Department issued rescue helmets should be worn.

Medical Aids – Medical Aid PPE as described.

Ringing Alarms – Full Structural Firefighting PPE.

Civil Disobedience – Full or Modified Structural Firefighting PPE. Level of protection will be at the Chief Officer or Company Officers discretion.

Weapons of Mass Destruction – Full Structural Firefighting PPE.

Other Incidents – For incidents that do not fall into the previously identified categories, the Company Officer shall determine the appropriate level of PPE required.



RESPONSE ATTIRE

NUMBER: 512.00

DATE: 2‐25‐15

Page 5 of 9

Acting out of Class‐ While acting out of class (whether acting above or below in rank) personnel shall wear the appropriate color helmet for the rank they are acting in.

BLS/EMT’s‐ Shall consist of standard precaution PPE (gloves, goggles, masks, gowns) as dictated by the needs of the incident. Issued NFPA 1999 compliant EMS jackets may be available to personnel for use as needed. NFPA compliant helmets (Blue) will be provided. Use of helmets (i.e. vehicle accidents) will be at the discretion of the Company Officer.

Chief Officers‐ The appropriate level of PPE for Chief Officers shall be at the discretion of the Incident Commander.

HIGH VISIBILITY ROADWAY RESPONSE – All personnel shall wear HFR provided, OSHA approved 23 CFR 634 ANSI 207 Class 2 vests or jackets prior to exiting their apparatus in the following situations:

Whenever personnel are operating on or near a roadway, highway, surface street or other area where vehicles operate.

Whenever personnel are operating in a trolley or railroad right of way.

Whenever personnel are operating in industrial areas where mobile vehicles and/or mobile machines are in use.

Whenever personnel are operating in construction areas.

Whenever the Company Officer determines it is necessary for added safety. EXCEPTIONS – Due to conflicting regulations in NFPA, material limitations and flammability, the High Visibility garment shall NOT be worn in the following circumstances

Whenever personnel are directly engaged in active fire suppression operations or in proximity to heat and/or burning materials. This exception is not to include command staff or pump operators.

Whenever personnel are directly engaged in extrication or technical rescue where the garment may cause entanglement.

Whenever personnel are directly involved in hazardous materials containment, control or mitigation operations.

High Visibility garments shall not be worn under SCBA’s or wildland web gear.



RESPONSE ATTIRE

NUMBER: 512.00

DATE: 2‐25‐15

Page 6 of 9

COMMAND VESTS – Command vests shall be worn by command staff on incidents requiring identification of ICS positions. TRAINING – Personnel shall wear the appropriate level of PPE based on the type of training engaged in. CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Use of an ISP – It will be the intent of Heartland Fire and Rescue to submit structural PPE annually to a certified NFPA 1851 compliant ISP for advanced inspection, cleaning and repair. Storage ‐ PPE shall not be hung on the exterior of the apparatus. Hanging jackets and pants on the exterior of the apparatus may cause damage to both the apparatus and the gear. PPE shall not be stored in direct UV light whenever possible. High visibility vests are not constructed of FR material and shall not be stored on turnout jackets. This is to reduce the potential of responding to a structure fire with the non‐FR vest still on the jacket. Routine Inspection – Personnel are responsible for inspection of their PPE each shift to ensure it is in proper working order. Inspection criteria shall follow posted guidelines. Any defect or damage shall be reported to a supervisor immediately. All PPE elements shall be marked with the last name of the employee in permanent black ink on the interior label if not already provided by the manufacturer. Cleaning – All PPE elements shall be thoroughly cleaned per manufacturer’s instruction and/or posted guidelines when soiled or after exposure to an Immediate Danger to Life and Health (IDLH) environment. Personnel are responsible for the cleaning of their own PPE. The department shall provide a means of having soiled and contaminated PPE elements cleaned and decontaminated. Soiled or contaminated PPE elements shall not be brought home, washed in home or public laundries. Due to the possibility of cross contamination, it is recommended that station uniforms are cleaned in department provided cleaning facilities and should not be taken home.



RESPONSE ATTIRE

NUMBER: 512.00

DATE: 2‐25‐15

Page 7 of 9

Modification and repair – PPE shall not be modified from its original issued design or repaired without authorization from the PPE Equipment Officer. Removal of ear shrouds or goggles from structural or wildland helmets is considered a form of modification and is strictly prohibited unless approved by the PPE equipment officer, chief officer or an instructor in charge during training exercises. This modification shall be considered temporary. All repairs and/or modifications to structural, wildland and EMS PPE shall be performed by a department approved certified ISP.

Helmets‐ (Structure, Wildland and Rescue) Helmets shall be kept clean to the touch. They must be in good condition free of deep scratches, cracks, chips and melted areas. Original color of the helmet must be recognizable from a distance. Minimum identification requirements on helmets will consist of HRT on the side panels, approved helmet shield and last name of the firefighter on the rear brim. No unauthorized stickers may be added to the helmets.

Helmet Shields – Shields shall comply with department specifications only. They shall reflect proper rank and shall be maintained in the condition as to be legible and correct color. Shields shall be replaced through the PPE Officer. Shield fields will be in the order (starting from the top down) of rank, last name and department (HEARTLAND). A medallion of proper rank will be placed between the last name and the department name. Technical Rescue Helmets – Department provided, ANSI certified technical rescue helmets may be used during technical rescue operations when the danger of fire or flash fire is non‐existent. Trouser Suspenders‐ Personnel choosing to use suspenders with their structural firefighting pants shall ensure that they are worn on/over the shoulders at all times and may not droop or sag from/at the waist. Thermal Protection Liners – Structural PPE shall be not be placed in service or worn without properly installed thermal protection liners in accordance with the manufacturer.

Replacement/Retirement – Personnel shall notify the PPE Equipment Officer if there is a need to replace any PPE, including but not limited to age or damage. Structural pants, jackets, helmets, hoods, boots and gloves shall comply with the NFPA ten year maximum (from manufacturing date) service life standards. Retired PPE shall not be reissued for use in any type of live fire conditions.



RESPONSE ATTIRE

NUMBER: 512.00

DATE: 2‐25‐15

Page 8 of 9

Retired PPE may be used for training purposes in non‐live fire conditions but only after properly identified as such. Identification of retired PPE will be as follows:

The lower back area of the jacket will be stenciled in red paint – NO LIVE FIRE

The right hamstring area of the pant will be stenciled in red paint – NO LIVE FIRE

A half inch hole will be drilled into the top of structure helmets. There will be an exception for those individuals that wish to keep their service helmets upon retirement.

APPROPRIATE USE OF PPE – PPE is for use of personnel for Department related functions only. Any use of PPE outside of normal duty functions will be by approval and at the discretion of the Fire Chief. Members may be given opportunity to keep certain PPE items upon retirement from the department with the approval and at the discretion of the Fire Chief.

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