The successful rescuing of a lost, trapped or missing firefighter requires a tremendous amount of dedication and preparation. Searching and removing one of our own at an emergency scene will challenge the best-trained firefighters.
Case studies over the years continually point to the lack of preparation and training to deal with these type emergencies. Having a dedicated Rapid Intervention crew or company at an incident is one thing, having a highly trained crew or company(s) to handle this responsibility is another. Fire Departments must have dedicated procedures and training to handle a MAY-DAY.
Enclosed is a small sample in our on-going attempt to meet this challenge and get everyone home.
Rapid Intervention Company
Quick Reference Sheet
ENROUTE/UPON ARRIVAL:
- Review any pre-plan information specific to the address
- Monitor radio communications enroute and upon arrival
- Set up and stage equipment near the Command Post or designated area
- Hi-rise buildings, report and set up at the Operations Post
- Review the Command tracking board/computer
- Identify Division assignments and Company/Crew locations
- Size-Up the building noting the fire location and its extension possibilities and probabilities
- Size-Up the building noting the location and number of entrances and exits
- Focus on identifying/predicting and solving problems
- Place additional ladders on the fire building and attached exposure buildings
- Remove obstructions (barred windows, roll down gates, etc.) and create additional means of egress
- Note location and use of aerial/tower ladders for emergency use and repositioning
- Note location and use of hoselines for emergency use and repositioning
TOOL INVENTORY:
- RIC Pack/Kit
- Thermal Imaging Camera
- Search Rope
- Power Saws
- Defibrillator/EMS Kit
- Forcible Entry Tools
- Stokes basket/Sked
Stay Safe !
Michael A. Terpak
Deputy Chief, City of Jersey City
