Standard Operating Guidelines and Rules And Regulations
South Strabane Fire Department
Station 44
The Standard Operating Guidelines presented in this document are to act as a guide for officers and firefighters on standard guidelines.
They are general guidelines that may be modified by Incident Commanders, and personell as conditions dictate.
These guidelines do not create rights or duties that are enforceable in court.
1.1 It shall be the mission of the South Strabane Fire Department to deliver
in a highly competent and professional manner, a combination of proactive
and reactive fire, rescue and emergency services that will provide the
highest possible degree of protection to South Strabane residents and their
property from the hazards and dangers of modern society.
1.2 We are a public service organization, created to serve South Strabane
residents, property owners and visitors.
1.3 We believe the people we serve should be able to live, work, learn,
visit and play in South Strabane Township without undue risk to their person
or property from fire, hazardous materials and natural or man made dangers
present in todays society.
1.4 We understand that prevention of harm to our residents and their property
is our single most important objective. When prevention is succsessful, no deaths,
injuries or property damage will occur.
1.5 We believe that our firefighters are our most important resource. They
are the connecting link to our comunity, and they are the sole source of
our ability to accomplish our mission.
2.0 Organization Statement
2.1 The South Strabane Fire Department is a Combination Fire Department.
This arrangement is to blend career and volunteer firefighters into one
organization.
2.2 The advantage of career firefighters is to help improve immediate response
to emergencies and to assist in the work load of running a volunteer fire department.
They also will have duties such as fire inspections, code enforcement, pre-planning
and fire prevention. The primary advantage of volunteering is to have a large number of
work force personnel available. Please keep in mind that the goals of a career
firefighter and a volunteer firefighter are the same. PUBLIC SAFETY
3.0 Functional Operation
3.1 The South Strabane Fire Department has a staff of three career firefighters and
approximately thirty five volunteer members. As in the S.O.G., the chain of command
flows from the Chief, 2 Assistant Chiefs, 2 District Chiefs, 2 Captains and 2 lieutennants.
Also, all career firefighters are members of the volunteer organization.
3.2 The career firefighters work on a daily shift that covers 7:00 a.m. to
4:30 p.m. However after their shift is over, they become volunteers from 4:30 p.m. to
7:00 a.m., which they will not be compensated for. In that time span they will qualify
for paid for call as a volunteer.
3.3 The volunteer firefighters are encouraged to spend time at the fire station(s)
and respond along with the career staff.
4.0 Training
4.1 The Training Officers and Chief are responsible for all training provided by the department.
Several programs make up the training process.
4.2 Volunteer Training: Responsible for preparing lesson plans and delivering programs for all
volunteer based training. Included are Firefighting safety educational offerings on fire
tecniques and procedures, rescue practices and pre fire planning. Individual
training records are maintained on each firefighter.
4.3 Recruit Training: Develops and delivers entry level training for new volunteer firefighters.
Monitors probationary term and administers final certification techniques.
4.4 Hazardous Material Training: Develops and delivers training programs designed to meet minimum
federal requirementsfor their mandated emergency response training.
4.5 Career Training: Career firefighters recieved most of their training in
conjunction with the volunteers. Additional training is expected in areas such as Fire Prevention
Code (BOCA 1996) Conducting Fire Inspections (NFA), etc. All of which are available to
the volunteers.
5.0 General Rules
5.1 Outside Training: From time to time, all firefighters are offered oppertunities
to attend training given by outside agencies. This training will be authorized by the Chief
before attendance. External training by department members is highly encouraged.
Funding for attendance is available through volunteer department upon certification.
All active firefighters must attend a minimum of (12) in-house trainings
(one per month) and sixteen(16) hours of certified training per year.
5.2 Probationary Firefighter: Each probationary applicant shall undergo a probationary period
lasting twelve (12) months. This time provides a new member with an opportunity to start
his/her development into an emergency responder. The South Strabane Fire Department will not knowingly
place a member in an emergency situation where he/she is not comfortable in
or above their level of training. For ease of identification, each probationary firefighter's helmet
will be marked. the marking device will be removed when the probationary period has ended.
During the probationary period, the new member is responsible to become competent with the knowledge,
skills and ability to comply with the rules and regulations as well as the S.O.G.'s.
5.3 Qualifications for Line Officers
5.3.1 All line officers must have three (3) years in the department.
5.3.2 Assistant Chief - must have ten (10) years in the fire service and four hundred (400)
hours of certified training. He/she also must be a resident of South Strabane Township.
5.3.3 Captain - must have six (6) years of fire service experience and two hundred (200)
hours of certified training.
5.3.4 Lieutennant - must have four (4) years of fire service experience
and one hundred fifty (150) hours of certified training.
5.3.5 The term of each office shall run for one (1) year in which an election at the december meeting will be held.
If a line officer shall move or resign, his/her position, the Chief shall appoint a person to
fill that office to finish out the term.
5.3.6 Appointments - The following officers shall be appointed by the chief at the january meeting.
Safety officer, training officer, chief engineer, air officer, hazmat officer, medical officer, and communications
officer.
6.0 Operator/Driver Requirements - Any person who wants to operate a fire apparartus G.V.W.R.
over 26,000 pounds, must obtain a Commercial Drivers license in order to be put on the drivers list.
The Chief will not sign off on anyone for approval. All operators must have a valid Pennsylvania
Drivers License to drive any department vehicle. A drivers list will be posted in each station.
7.0 Department Drills
7.0.1 Regular Drills - Regular drills are conducted on Wednesday evenings from approximately
19:00 hrs to 22:00 hrs.
7.0.2 Special Drills - Special drills are conducted on Saturdays or Sundays.
Special drills focus on skills such as Confined space rescue, live burn training,
vehicle extrication, elevator rescue and hazmat.
7.0.3 Make up drills - Make up drills are offered to members of the fire department
as an opportunity to aquire drill credit. Make up drills are arranged between the member
and the training officer. the drill is usually one on one for approximately
one (1) hour.
8.0 Riding on Apparatus
8.0.1 All personell riding in fire apparatus shall be seated with the seat belt secured.
8.0.2 Riding on tailboard or any other exposed position or standing while
the vehicle is in motion is specifically prohibited. (Exception to the rule by order of the O.I.C..
Example: Loading hose, Brush fire operations.
9.0 Personal Vehicles
9.0.1 The personal vehicles of the Chief, Assistant Chief and District Chief
are considered "emergency vehicles" under the laws of Pennsylvania. These vehicles are authorized
to operate red lights and sirens when responding to emergencies.
Capitans and lieutennants are permitted to use blue lights when responding to emergencies.
All other firefighters are prohibited from the use of blue lights.
9.0.2 Any non-emergency public service calls, or calls that have been cancelled
shall prohibit use of red or blue lights and sirens immediately. At that time
the driver shall proceed in a normal driving fashion.
9.0.3 Personell responding to emergencys with blue lights are not exempt
from any traffic laws.
9.0.4 All personal vehicles using either red or blue lights for emergency response
must be registered annually with the Pennsylvania State police. All personell
are required to submit to the fire Chief, a listing of the year, make, and license
of any personal vehicle using red or blue lights. this must be submitted prior to
December 31.
9.0.5 Use of red or blue lights for emergency response is only permitted when
the responding firefighter has in his/her posession a portable 2-way radio or
paging reciever to recieve response instructions from the 911 center.
9.0.6 Complaints of unsafe driving practices while responding to an emergency
will be handled in the following manner. Complaints recieved from the police department,
other fire department members, or citizen will be investigated in a fair manner
gathering information from all parties. Based on the results of the investigation,
the incident may be resolved in one of four ways. 1. Complaint unfounded or unjustified. no action taken.
2. Complaint justified - non flagrant act - Verbal reprimand. 3. Complaint justified -
flagrant act - Written reprimand and suspension. 4. Complaint justified -
Repeat flagrant act - Suspension from department.
Overview
Effective emergency scene operations are contingent on the ability to assemble adequate
personell and equipment resources at the scene in a timely manner. As such,
rapid response to emergencies by available volunteer personell is encouraged.
It is absolutely mandatory, however, that the response be made in a safe responsible
fashion that doesNOT endanger pedestrians or other motorists.
Once arriving at station, it is essential that every firefighter functions as a member of a team
in a coordinated effort. All actions by individuals on the scene must be performed
as safely as possible and in a manner that is consistent with the strategy
and tactics being employed by the incident commander to solve the problem.
1. Purpose: To Provide firefighting personell with the essential requirements for use and care of SCBA
.
2. Scope: This procedure applies to all personell working in any type of
hazardous atmosphere.
3. Responsibility: All firefighting personell are required to wear SCBA any time they will be working in an
atmosphere deemed hazardous such as during interior structural firefighting
overhaul operations, car fires, haz mat incidents. Etc.
4. Care and Maintenence
4.1 Firefighters that have donned SCBA are to clean face piece with antiseptic wipe,
and insure that all straps are loosened prior to placing unit
back in service.
4.2 Firefighters experiencing any problems with SCBA shall report it to O.I.C.
and SCBA maintenance technician so that it can be repaired or removed from service.
4.3 A SCBA report shall be filled out by the firefighter that has used (breathed
Air)an SCBA for any reason, and turn the report into the maintenance technician
so that he/she can inspect the SCBA unit.
5. Safety
5.1 No firefighters shall be permitted to wear SCBA if they have facial hair
(beards) that could prohibit a proper seal.
5.2 All firefighters wearing SCBA equipped with PASS safety device shall
activate the PASS device prior to entering any structural fire.
5.3 Firefighters riding in SCBA equipped seats shall don the airpack
while riding enroute to alarms.
5.4 Every firefighter actively responding to alarms must recieve annual training
in use and care of SCBA, and awareness training of the limitations of the SCBA
and the user.
1. Purpose: To provide firefighters with the essential requirements for wearing
personal protective clothing while engaged in emergency operations, and training.
2. Scope: This procedure applies to all firefighting personell responding to or working at an emergency
call, or participating in training activities.
3. Responsibility: It will be the responsibility of the fire department
to provide each firefighter with a complete set of turn out gear.
3.1 It will be the responsibility of the firefighter to keep their turn out gear
clean and in good repair. If their gear becomes damaged or lost during an emergency
they shall report such damage to the O.I.C.
3.2 Each firefighter will be issued a locker to keep their protective clothing
in at the fire station. The firefighter shall keep their protective clothing
at the fire station in their locker unless given permission to remove it from the
fire station by the O.I.C.
4. Definitions: Full Protective Clothing is defined as helmet with face shield,
Protective Hood, Bunker Coat, Bunker Pants with suspenders, Steel toed rubber boots,
and Gloves. Hearing protection "ear plugs" will also be provided for use in noisy
environments.
4.1 All personal protective clothing shall meet N.F.P.A requirements for
fire fighting gear, at time of purchase.
5. Safety
5.1 Full protective clothing must be donned prior to responding to an
emergency. (No getting dressed on trucks).
5.2 Full protective clothing must be worn at all times while on the scene
of an emergency. (Note O.I.C. may permit removal of coats and hoods while
placing equipment back in service, packing hose etc.)
5.3 Firefighters shall be required to wear hearing protection under direction from the O.I.C.
While working in noisy environments.
5.4 Protective clothing must be carried on apparatus if firefighters are out of
the station on details, parades, drivers training etc.
5.5 All firefighters will recieve training in the proper use and limitations of personal protective
equipment prior to being given permission to begin responding to emergency calls.
1. Purpose: To establish a system of control for the everyday activities and the
supervision of personell during emergency's.
2. Scope: This procedure applies to all firefighters as members of the South Strabane F.D.
3. Order of Rank: Chief, Assistant Chief, District Chief, Captain, Lieutennant.
4. Responsibility: It is the responsibility of each and every firefighter to respect
the authority of the officers.
4.1 In the Absence of a line officer at an emergency then the safety officer will assume
command of the emergency.
4.2 In the absence of a line officer and the safety officer than the highest ranking firefighter
shall assume command. (see attached sheet)
4.3 The highest ranking officer first arriving on scene shall assume command of the
incident until a senior officer arrives on scene and chooses to assume command.
5. Firefighter Ranking
Chief - Scott Reese
Assistant Chief - Station 1 - Dave Smith Station 2 - Fred Allen
District Chief - Station 1 - Jim Barnes Station 2 - Bob Orndoff
Captain - Station 1 - Duane Hull Station 2 - Dave Holovack
Lieutennant - Station 1 Scott Heckman Station 2 Wyatt Streator
Safety Officer - Station 1 Mike Reese Station 2 - Bill Orndoff
Training Officer - Station 1 Scott Heckman Station 2 - Wyatt Streator
Air Officer - Station 1 - Bernie Smith Station 2 - Cliff Jones
Chief Engineer - Station 1 - Jim Barnes Station 2 - Jim Plants
Hazmat Officer - Station 1 - Dave Smith Station 2 - Fred Allen
Communications Officer - Station 1 Dave Smith Station 2 - Fred Allen
Medical Officer - Station 1 Kim Smith Station 2 Chris Barton
1. Purpose: To provide firefighters with the knowledge and terminology
used in the command structure used on the fireground scene.
2. Scope: This procedure is intended to be utilized for all incident Operations
of the South Strabane Fire Department. This serves as the Standard Operating Guideline
with respect to incident management and personell accountability reporting.
This document is presented in two sections. The first section is a simple
Glossary of terms which presents some basic definitions and concepts
essential to understanding how crews will be managed and accounted for
under the "Incident Command" emergency management system. The second section is presented as
the "Rules of Response". This section is not intended to be all encompassing
of every SOG for every type of on scene operation. Rather, it presents basic
ESSENTIAL "Rules of Response" which must be honored by every officer and firefighter
reporting to an emergency scene.
As you review these sections, you will see that it seems to focus on
structural firefighting operations. While the terminology herein may
refer to structur fire emergencies, these rules do apply for all
emergency incidents that require field operations, management control,
and personell accountability reporting.
The intent of this SOG is to increase firefighter safety through an effective
incident management and Personell Accountability report system.
3. Definitions and Glossary of Terms
Incident Commander(I.C.): The individual responsible for the management
of all incident operations. The call sign for the I.C. shall be "location name Command".
For example, a house fire incident on Grandview Ave., the I.C. would be called
"Grandview Avenue Command" or simply "Grandview Command".
Safety Officer: The individual responsible for monitoring and assessing
safety hazards, unsafe situations, and developing measures for ensuring personell
safety. This responsibilty includes Personell Acountability Reporting(PAR)
This individual is a member of the command staff. The call sign for the safety
officer shall be "safety". For example for a house fire incident on grandview avenue
the safety officer would be called "Safety".
Command Staff: The command staff can be made up of any positions/individuals
assigned by the I.C. to assist him/her with the incident management functions.
Such positions include the Safety Officer, Liason officer, information officer,
EMS command, police commmand, other agency command, etc.
Command Post: The command post shall be a location designated by the I.C.
from which the management functions shall be carried out.
Staging Officer: The individual responsible for organizing personell
and equipment resources as requested by the I.C. at the incident scene, or at
some other location designated by the I.C. The Staging officer shall dispatch
personell and resources on the incident scene as directed by the Operations Officer.
The Call sign for staging officer shall be "staging". For Example for a house fire
on Grandview Avenue., the staging officer would be called "Staging".
Operations Officer: The individual responsible for all tactical operations
at the incident. This individual shall report directly to the I.C., and shall execute
tactical functions(task duties) to support the objectives and strategy
established by the I.C. The call sign for the operations officer shall be
"Operations".
Water Officer: The individual responsible for establishing and maintaining
an adequate water supply to acieve the objectives established by the I.C.
The water officer will, in most cases, report directly to the I.C. However, for
large scale incidents responsibility structure shall be clearly established by the
I.C. at the incident. the call sign for the water officer shall be "Water Officer"
"Any Task" Team Leader: At any given incident one or more work teams
(sometimes several) will be assigned to perform various duties on the scene
Each team will have a designated team leader. The team leader shall be responsible for
executing the task that his/her team has been assigned. The team leader shall be
responsible to maintain the Personell Acountability Report(PAR) for himself and those
personell assigned to him (i.e. his team). In addition the team leader shall be responsible
to communicate with the immediate supervising officer. the call sign for any team leader
shall be "task team 1,2,3,4,etc.." For example a team leader assigned a crew
for initial fire attack would be called "Attack 1".
One Exception for this definition applies to ventilation work. "Ventiliation 1"
can be used to designate the first crew assigned ventilation work, OTHER THAN
ON THE ROOF. A ventilation Crew working on the roof will be designated as "Roof 1".
Personell Accountability Report(PAR): This is the Tagging and identification system
which will be utilized for tracking assignments and locations of personell on the
fire ground. "PAR" is also the call sign requesting each team leader and function commander
(i.e."operations, water supply, etc.") to quickly and efficiently communicate to the safety
officer (or appointed accountability officer) the status of his/her respective teams under his/her
direction. For example the safety officer can call operations and ask "operations do you have
PAR?" If Operations has ALL of personell assigned to him clearly accounted for, his response to Safety officer is
"yes I have PAR". All personell can be quickly accounted for using the PAR system
provided that each work team maintains its integrity and the team leader has a handle
on the location and safety of his/her people at ALL TIMES.
Definitions describing locations and oreintation for fire ground operations.
4.1 Building side Identification: The ADDRESS side of the building shall be designated side A.
In a clockwise pattern, the next side to the left is designated side B. in a typical structure
with four siders the third side (rear) is referred to as side C. the Fourth side is designated
side D.
4.2 Floors, Basements, and Attics: Floors, basements, and Attics shall be defined as
the "Basement","1st Floor","2nd floor","3rd floor","Attic". Etc.
4.3 Sectors of a Building:A building can be delienated into sectors to help
give a more specific location to a task, to a downed firefighter, etc. Using the side
definitions presented sectors can be further defined in a clock wise pattern
starting at side A. For example upon arrival a fire can be venting out of a second
floor side window. The I.C. can report "Engine 1 on scene, fire venting from second
floor window, side B sector BC. Engine 1 establishing Grandview Avenue command
and initiating offensive interior attack". This provides key information to all
incoming personell about where fire is burning, and where the first attack crew
will be advancing in the building.
1. Purpose: To provide personell with the essential requirements neccesary
to drive and operate any Fire Department vehicle.
2. Scope: This procedure Applies to all drivers and operators of the Fire Departments
Vehicles, wether they may be responding to an emergency or driving during a non-emergency
situation.
3. Responsibility: All drivers of any Fire Department Apparatus be 21 years of age
or Older.
3.1 All drivers of apparatus over 26,000# G.V.W. must have a valid C.D.L. Drivers license.
All drivers will maintain a valid Pennsylvania drivers License.
3.2 Drivers responsibility and duties.
3.2.1 Maintain a proper level of training to be proficient in driving and operating
fire apparatus. Drivers of engines will be required to obtain a minimum 16 hr.
state certified pump class.
3.2.2 To drive and operate fire apparatus in a safe manor obeying all traffic laws and
using all warning devices, lights, sirens, while responding to an
emergency.REMEMBER if you your truck and it's crew don't arrive safely then you
can't help out those in need
3.2.3 Insure that ALL equipment removed from truck at fire scene is returned in it's place
prior to leaving scene.
3.2.4 Insure that truck is refuled prior to returning to station if the fuel tank registers 3/4 tank or less.
Also ensure that fuel cans and fuel tanks on portable equipment, i.e. generators are full.
3.2.5 Insure water tank on truck is full prior to or after returning to station.
3.2.6 The driver/operator of engines and tanker will remain with truck during emergency operations.
3.2.7. Insure truck is cleaned after returning to station.
3.2.8 Report any mechanical problems to O.I.C. immediately so that it can be repaired
or truck taken out of service.
5. Drivers Training
5.1 A minimum of 20 hours drivers training must be completed on a truck prior
to being considered for placement on the drivers list.
5.2 Apparatus drivers must demonstrate the ability to operate the apparatus to the
training officer.
6.1 Circle of Safety: Prior to entering the cab and starting the vehicle, the driver shall
make a circle of safety around the vehicle, ensuring all equipment is
secured, all compartment doors are closed and if any physical obstructions exist
around the vehicle. This shall be done prior to moving the vehicle regardless of wether or not the vehicle is about
to leave on an emergency or a non-emergency.
6.2 Warning Devices and true Emergencies: When responding to a true emergency, all audible and visual
warning devices will be operated at all times regardless of time of day and or traffic conditions.
All emergency vehicle drivers must understand that warning devices are not always effective
in making other vehicle operators aware of your presence. Warning devices only request
the right-of-way, they do not insure the right-of-way.
6.3 Vehicle control and right-of-way: All drivers shall attempt to maintain control of the vehicle they are operating
in such a manner as to provide the maximum level of safety for both their
passengers and the general public. Emergency vehicle drivers should be aware
that the civilian vehicle operators may not react in the manner in which is expected
or felt to be appropriate. An attempt should be made to have options available when passing or overtaking vehicles
if another vehicle operator fails to yield the right-of-way to an emergency vehicle, the emergency vehicle driver can not force the right of way
nor can you assume the right-of-way, therefore yoiu do not have the right-of-way untill the other vehicle
yields to you.
The emergency vehicle driver shall be aware of his/her rate of closure on other vehicles and pedestrians
at all times to make sure that a safe following distance is established and maintained.
All drivers shall follow the rule for safe following distance and allow 1 second for every 10 feet of
vehicle length for speeds under 40 MPH and add 1 additional
second for speeds over 40 MPH.
6.4 Response Speeds: When responding to a true emergency only, drivers shall operate the vehicle
they are driving at as close to the posted speed limit as possible. Examples of conditions requiring
slower response speeds include but are not limited to: Slippery road conditions, Inclement weather,
poor visibility, heavy or congested traffic, sharp curves.
6.5 Intersection Practices: Extreme care should be taken when approaching any intersection
as intersections are the locations responsible for a large percentage of major accidents involving
emergency vehicles. Drivers are required to practice the organizations intersection operating
guidelines during ALL emergency responses.
Uncontrolled intersection - ANy intersection that does not offer a control device (stop sign, yield, or traffic signal)
in the direction of travel of the emergency vehicle or where a traffic control signal is green upon the approach
of the emergency vehicle all emergency vehicle operators should do the following. Scan the intersection for possible hazards
(right turns on red, pedestrians, vehicles travelling fast, etc) Observe traffic in all 4 directions
(left, right, front, rear) Slow down if any potential hazards are detected and cover the brake pedal with the drivers foot
Change siren cadence not less than 200' from intersection. Avoid using the opposing lane of traffic if at all possible.
Emergency vehicle operators should always be prepared to stop. If another vehicle operator fails to yield the
right-of-way the emergency vehicle driver can not force the right of way.
Controlled Intersections - Any intersection controlled by a stop sign, yield sign,
yellow traffic light, or red traffic light requires a complete stop by the emergency vehicle driver.
In addition to bringing the vehicle to a complete stop these additional steps must be followed as well.
Do not rely on warning devices to clear traffic. Scan the intersection for possible hazards (right turns on red, pedestrians, vehicles travelling fast, etc)
As well as driver options. Begin to slow down well before reaching the intersection and cover the brake pedal with the drivers foot,
Observe traffic in all 4 directions(left, right, front, rear). Change siren cadence not less than 200' from intersection. Scan the intersection for possible passing options (pass on right, left, wait, etc) Avoid using
the opposing lane if at all possible. Establish eye contact with other vehicle drivers: have partner communicate all is clear
reconfirm all other vehicles are stopped. Proceed one lane of traffic at a time treating each lane of traffic as a seperate intersection. Railroad intersections - At any time an emergency vehicle driver approaches an unguarded
rail crossing he/she shall bring the apparatus or vehicle he/she is operating to a complete stop before entering
the grade crossing. In addition the emergency vehicle driver shall perform the following prior to
proceeding.
-Turn off all sirens and air horns.
-Operate the motor at idle speed.
-Turn off any other sound producing equipment or accessories.
-Open the windows and listen for a trains horn.
6.6 Non-emergency response: When responding to a call in a non-emergency response mode
or normal flow of traffic (non code 3 or when not responding to a true emergency)
the vehicle will be operated without any audible or visual warning devices
and in compliance with all state motor vehicle laws that apply to civilian traffic.
At no time should any emergency vehicle be operated during response
with only visual warning devices.
6.7 Ordinary travel Procedures: All drivers shall obey all traffic laws and traffic control devices
when driving any department vehicle under ordinary travel conditions any driver observed breaking
any traffic laws or driving vehicle in an aggressive manner will be subject
to disciplinary action including, suspension of driving privliges.
6.8 Backing: The department recognizes that backing emergency vehicles is made hazardous
by the fact that the driver cannot see much of where he/she intends to go.
The department recommends that whenever possible drivers should avoid backing
as the safest way to back up a vehicle is not to back up at all. When neccesary
to back up any departmental vehicle all drivers shall follow one of the two following measures.
The departments first choice of backing procedures is that before any vehicle is put into reverse
and backed that a spotter be put in place near the rear of the vehicle. The spotter should be safely
positioned so that the emergency vehicle driver can see them at all times. If at any time the
emergency vehicle driver loses sight of the spotter, he/she shall stop immediately untill
the spotter makes himself/herself visible again.
If conditions exist that make use of a spotter impossible, all drivers, before attempting to back up
any fire department vehicle, will make a circle of safety to see that: no person or persons are
directly behind the vehicle or it's intended path of travel. The vehicle driver should also note any obstructions
in his/her intended path of travel.
6.9 Response in privately owned vehicles: When any member responds to the station or to the scene of an emergency
in his/her private vehicle, each member must strictly adhere to all aplicable motor vehicle laws.
Privately owned vehicles are not provided with the same exemptions that are provided to emergency
vehicles. No member of the organization will be permitted to violate any motor vehicle laws, including but not limited to:
speed limits, going through traffic control devices, passing in an unsafe manner.
While it is recognized that timeliness in response to an emergency is important, it is imperative
that all drivers understand that their private vehicles are not emergency vehicles and therefore
are not afforded any exemptions or special privliges under state law. Any driver observed breaking any traffic laws
or operating any vehicle in an agressive or unsafe manner will be subject to disciplinary action including,
suspension, loss of driving privliges, and withdrawl of courtesy light permit.
1. Purpose: To give Officers and Firefighters guides to be followed responding to and performing at
emergency scenes.
2. Scope: This policy applies to all Officers and Firefighters.
3. Response Mode
3.1 The Officer (or designated senior firefighter) on the first apparatus arriving on scene
shall (a) evaluate conditions (b) report observations (c)establish command.
For example, I.C. can report "engine 1 on scene, fire venting from second floor window,
side B sector BC". "Engine 1 Establishing command or O.I.C. has command, (district Chief has Command).
3.2 First responding apparatus shall communicate on frequency 46.40 (primary dispatch fequency)
All secondary units shall communicate immediately switch to 46.12. This is done before leaving the station.
All fireground operations shall be done on fireground frequency 46.12 or 46.26.
3.3 When calling the apparatus in service, announce how many personell are on the apparatus. The intent of
this action is to broadcast to other units (and the I.C.) what your man power status is on the unit. There is no need
to re-broadcast this unless you are the first apparatus reporting to the dispatch center and they never acknowledged you.
All other units will call the FIRST RESPONDING UNIT on 46.12 to announce apparatus and manpower in service.
3.4 Upon arrival at the incident scene, all personell shall stay in the apparatus until the officer or (designated senior firefighter)
in charge has determined which task(s) the personell have been assigned. The officer or (designated officer) in charge shall recieve
instructions and assignments from the I.C.. If the crew is to report to staging officer, then future directions should come from
staging. This rule is intended to keep your crew together. DO NOT get off apparatus and wander. Maintain team integrity and personnel accountability
(PAR).
4. On Scene Operations Mode
4.1 A staging area will be established with an officer, and a safety officer shall be designated (small incidents the chief will assume this
position, provided the accepted span of control is not exceeded).
4.2 NO free-lancing on the incident scene will be tolerated. Once assigned to a team each individual remains with that team throughout the incident,
unless the operations officer or officer in charge changes team personnel, notifying all team leaders involved.
It shall be up to the operations officer to notify the safety officer and the accountability officer of any such changes.
This is for the safety of you and your fellow firefighters. All personell shall woirk in a team and
be assigned specific task(s). Once a task is completed, the team will report to the operations officer that the task
is complete. the team may be reassigned or sent to the staging area. Even in staging the team must maintain its integrity
and be ready for a call requesting "PAR". DO NOT WANDER OFF! If you do, advise your team leader where you are at ALL TIMES
(i.e. going to get a drink, fill an air bottle etc.)
4.3 Utilize the PAR system. If you do not, the I.C. may not have any way of knowing
that your on the fireground in the event of a building collapse, etc. The PAR system is for your safety "USE IT".
4.4 Personnel working in teams on the fireground must have a two-way radio capable of communication
with their supervising officer. For Example "Attack 1 to Operations. Fire under control. Proceeding with horizontal ventilation checking for extension".
Operations would report to I.C. of this progress and crew status. Fireground operations shall communicate on frequency 46.12.
4.5 Communications from team leaders to their supervising officer (i.e. "attack to operations") must occur frequently.
Specifically as you accomplish milestone events such as in previous example, report back the status
Communicate problems, safety concerns, etc.
4.6 Make sure that communications are recieved and understood by the recieving individual.
Get an acknowledgement, and make sure they not only heard your message but understood it.
5. Additional Safety Rules
5.1 The emergency evacuation signal to get everyone out of the structure is (and clear the
collapse zone) is three long blasts of the air horn. Also accompainied with a radio transmission
for all teams to clear the building.
5.2 A Man Down emergency is called a "mayday" If a Mayday is called, The I.C. and the Rapid Intervention Team
(R.I.T.) or a backup team must be notified immediately. The R.I.T. Commander shall manage the rescue operation, and the I.C.
shall maintain overall command of all fireground operations and resources. The R.I.T. commander and the I.C. shall work
together in a unified command structure to work towards the common goal of firefighter rescue.
5.3 ALL personnel working at an emergency scene have responsibility for safety. REPORT any safety concerns to your team leader
who shall communicate the concern up the command structure to the operations officer, safety officer,
and the I.C.. If the concern presents an Immediate danger to health or safety, take the immediate action neccesary
to overcome the danger (i.e. by-pass the chain of command if neccesary, you can explain action later if need be).
1. Purpose: To provide fire fighting personnel with a basic understanding of their roles and duties.
2. Scope: This policy applies to all active firefighters on the roster of the South Strabane F.D.
3. Responsibility: It is the responsibility of each firefighter to understand their roles and duties.
and the officers of the department to oversee them in the performance of their duty.
4. Duties
4.1 Act and conduct yourself in a professional manor at all times Remember you are a
representative of the South Strabane F.D.
4.2 To answer and respond to all emergency calls that you are available, as soon as you recieve
notification.
4.3 NEVER answer an alarm while under the influence of alcohol, or controlled substances.
4.4 Attend a minimum of one in-house training session per month to retain active firefighter status.
4.5 Be familiar with equipment on trucks, their use, their location so that you may retrieve them and
use them correctly when asked to do so.
4.6 Respect the authority and directions of your superior officers at all times. Failure to do so may result in strict
disciplinary action imposed by the Chief.
4.7 Members or firefighters are responsible and accountable for all equipment, pagers, radio's, protective clothing
issued them by the department.
4.8 Insure the condition of the trucks, the truck garage, and the lounge area is neat and clean at all times.
4.9 Assist in returning trucks and equipment to ready service after each call.
4.10 Know, understand, and obey the guidelines and regulations described in the SOG document.
2. Scope: Firefighters must operate in two person teams at all times. When making an interior attack,
two firefighters remain outside, wearing full protective clothing, breathing apparatus and with equipment neccesary to rescue attack teams if they get into trouble.
3. Responsibility: It will be the responsibility of the Incident Commander to initiate 2 in/2 out operation
regulation.
3.1 The Outside rescue team can NOT be given other assignments.
3.2 The only exception to 2 in/2 out comes when companies arrive on a scene
where lives are endangered and rescues have to be made. In that situation, every firefighter
may be needed to get people out of a building. This is the only "Exception" and not the rule.
3.3 2 in/2 out procedure must be implemented as extinguishment gets underway.
4. Definitions: The 2 in/2 out rule has been a long time in coming and is another important
step in the never ending battle to protect firefighters as they perform an inherently dangerous job.
5. Safety: The outside team must have direct contact with the interior teams by voice, visually or with a rope.
(Radios or other electronic devices are not considered adequate contact).
1. Purpose: To define the roles that the South Strabane F.D. will play during a Hazardous material incident.
2. Scope: This procedure applies to all Hazardous Material Incidents that the South Strabane F.D. may be called upon to handle.
3. Responsibility: It will be the responsibility of the firefighting members of the South Strabane F.D.
to attend training to recieve a minimum of Haz Mat First Responder Awareness certification and maintain that
certification throughout their active firefighting career.
4. Roles:
4.1 Fire Fighters: shall obtain and maintain Haz Mat first responder awareness certification annually.
If a Haz Mat alarm is recieved, they must advise the O.I.C. if they are not first responder certified.
4.2 Officers: shall not permit any firefighter that is not first responder certified to respond to a Haz Mat alarm.
Upon recieving notification of a Haz Mat alarm to notify and request the Washington County Hazardous Materials Team be dispatched.
Upon arrival of Haz Mat team the Command of the Incident Scene will be turned over to the Haz Mat O.I.C.
4.3 It is understood that the control of Hazardous Material situations requires special equipment, protective clothing,
and training, and must be handled by trained experienced personnel.
The role of the South Strabane F.D. firefighters will be to assist in evacuation of area and assisting
the Haz Mat team, to the best of our ability.
1. Purpose: To provide Junior Members their responsibilities and duties as members of the South Strabane F.D.
and their limitations to the jobs they may perform.
2. Scope: This procedure applies to all members of the South Strabane F.D. that are 16 or 17 year old minors.
3. Responsibilities:
3.1 Jr. firefighters shall provide working papers to be submitted with their membership application.
3.2 Complete fundamental training within first three months of probationary period.
4. Limitations:
4.1 16 and 17 year old minors who have completed a basic fire training course (such as one given at a couty fire school)
May participate in firefighting activities if they are under direct supervision of the fire Chief or an experienced line Officer.
16 and 17 year old junior firefighters are still prohibited however, from any of the following activities by law.
4.1.1 Operating an aerial lader, or platform, or hydraulic jack.
4.1.2 Using ruber electrical gloves, insulated wire gloves, insulated wire cutters, life nets or acetylene cutting torches.
4.1.3 Operating the Pumps of any fire vehicle at the scene of a fire.
4.1.4 Driving a fire truck, ambulance, or any other official fire vehicle.
4.1.5 Entering a burning structure.
4.2 16 and 17 year olds are normally prohibited from serving as firefighters between the hours of 12 midnight and 6 A.M.
(1 A.M. and 6 A.M on friday and Saturday nights during the school term vacations, but no night restriction during summer vacation). 16 and 17 year old firefighters who answer a call
before 12 or 1 o'clock deadline may continue to respond to that call past that deadline.
Such volunteers may not answer any new calls after 12 or 1 o'clock.
4.3 Juniors must ride in an enclosed cab area on trucks.
4.4 Juniors shall not leave school to answer alarms.
4.5 Juniors are not to respond to mutual aid calls outside of South Strabane Township.
4.6 Juniors are not permitted to carry fire department pagers at school.
4.7 Jr. Firefighters helmets shall be marked for easy identification.
4.8 High School graduates who are 17 years old or older are no longer considered minors
under the child labor law. Therefore 17 year old Junior firefighters who are high school graduates
are not subject to any of the above restrictions. This exemption also applies to those 17 year olds
who have been declared by the chief school administrator to have acieved their academic potential.
4.9 Minor volunteer firefighters are eligible for workers compensation if injured while actively
engaged as firefighters or while going to or returning from a fire. However in case
of a fundraising event, junior firefighters are only eligible for workers compensation if the local municipality
specifically authorized them, through an ordinance, to engage in fund raising activities.
1. Purpose: To provide firefighting personnel with the essential requirements in regards to training to
perform their duties.
2. Scope: This procedure applies to all members who desire to retain their active status as firefighters
in the South Strabane F.D.
3. Training Officer
3.1 The training officer shall be appointed by the Chief.
3.2 Th Training officer is responsible for scheduling and organizing all in house training sessions.
3.3 The training officer is responsible for posting and gaining approval for certified training classes
that may be paid for by the department.
3.4 The training officer shall be responsible to maintain an accurate record of all training hours recieved by each firefighter
both in house and certified along with a copy of all certificates.
4. Responsibilities
4.1 Each new applicant is required to complete a hands on fundamental training program within
the first three months of their probationary period.
4.2 After completion of fundamental training new recruits will take a written test and score at least an 80%
prior to being given clearance to answer calls.
4.3 Every active firefighter must attend at least 1 training session per month to retain their active firefighting status.
(If a firefighter is unable to make training he/she may make up training with any officer to retain their active status).
4.4 Each new recruit must attend an I.S.T. class certified by the state of PA in the first year of their probation.
4.5 Each new firefighter shall attend a fundamental firefighting certified class within their first year of membership.
4.6 Every firefighter shall be trained in Haz Mat first responder awareness in order to respond to Haz Mat calls.
4.7 Every firfighter trained to be an interior firefighter must take a physical agility test at least once per year.
4.8 Every firefighter that responds to emergencies must have an annual refersher training on SCBA.
4.9 Any member that has been absent from active firefighter service for a period of 4 months or longer shall be
required to retake the "fundamentals" written exam and score 80% to be reinstated for answering calls.
4.10 Drivers that have been absent themselves for a period of 4 months or longer shall be required to have 3 hours
of drivers training instruction prior to being placed back on the Drivers list.
1. Purpose: To provide all firefighters with guidelines and instruct them on proper procedures while responding to alarms.
2. Scope: This procedure applies to all firefighters while responding to station, after arriving at station and responding with
trucks to the scene.
3. Notification of Alarm
3.1 Upon recieving notification of an emergency, firefighters are to respond directly to the fire station to recieve instructions.
3.2 Assistant Chiefs and District Chiefs are permitted to use a Red light on their personal vehicles.
Captains and Lieutennants may use a blue light on their personal vehicles. All other firefighters are prohibited from use
of Blue lights.
3.3 The first firefighter arriving on station shall acknowledge to Washington Control that Station 44
in in service using proper radio procedures.
3.3.1 Proper radio procedure is acknowledging the type and location by repeating information to control
for verification.
Example: Control center sets off tones and announces: control to all 44 firemen, you have an accident with
entrapment at Rt. 19 and Manifold Rd.
First firefighter on station: Station 44 to Control we acknowledge the call that's an accident with entrapment
intersection of Rt.19 and manifold Rd.
Washington Control: Station 44 acknowledge 21:54.
3.3.2 after acknowledging the call the firefighter shall mark the call and location on the chalk board outside the radio room.
3.4 Firefighters ariving at station shall report to their locker and dress completely in all turn out gear.
3.5 After dressing in full turn out gear firefighters are to report to an area outside radio room to await instructions
from officer.
4. Truck response to Alarms
4.1 The officer of the first truck to leave the station shall use proper radio procedures and notify
the Washington Control center the truck number, number of firefighters on board, are in service responding
(Example: Captain 44 to Washington Control Rescue 44 is in service responding with 4. Washington control rescur 44 in with 4 21:56)
4.2 Upon arrival on scene Officer of truck will notify Washington control that the truck is on scene and give a quick size up of situation.
4.3 The officer of any additional trucks responding to the same alarm shall radio THE FIRST TRUCK and notify him they are enroute and how many firefighters
are on board.
4.4 Firefighters responding in seats equipped with airpacks shall don airpacks while enroute to emergency.
4.5 Firefighters shall fasten and wear their seat belt any time they are riding on trucks. (firefighters donning airpacks shall fasten seat belt
as soon as they have put airpack on).
4.6 Upon arrival on scene firefighters shall stay with truck and await orders from officer.
5. Returning to Service
5.1 Upon completion of emergency the O.I.C. shall radio Washington Control and advise that all equipment
is in service returning, last unit to leave the scene.
5.2 All firefighters are responsible to return equipment to service in preparation for the next call.
firefighters that must be released for personal reasons shall notify the O.I.C. prior to leaving.
5.2.1 All trucks shall be washed after every call unless deemed unneccesary by the O.I.C.
5.2.2 Any hose or other equipment used shall be cleaned and put back on the truck.
5.2.3 Any airpacks used shall be cleaned and returned to service. (see procedure on SCBA).
1. Purpose: TO outline the rules of conduct expected of the firefighters of the South Strabane Fire Department and the associated
discipline for faliure to abide by the rules and regulations of the Fire Department.
2. Scope: This procedure applies to all members who desire to retain their active status as firefighters in the South Strabane Fire Department.
3. Discipline: Any member can be suspended from active firefighting service for violations
that the Chief or his fireground commander see at the emergency scene. For other complaints, the suspension can be on information recieved if the complaint is in
writing. these written complaints can come from members or non members alike. Such a complaint shall be presented to the Fire Chief and shall set forth such facts as shall make out
a cause for suspension. The fire Chief shall notify the accused member in writing that a complaint has been filed. and fix the time and place for a meeting with the South Strabane Department of Fire/
Rescue for the accused to be heard. The Accuser(s) must be present at this hearing. After hearing both sides of the case, a decision will be rendered within (5) days of the hearing
by the South Strabane Department of Fire/Rescue. The Decision of the South Strabane Department Of Fire/Rescue is final with no right of appeal to the Department. The accused member shall be notified
in writing of the decision. The actions taken by the South Strabane Department Of Fire/Rescue concerning a suspension hearing, shall be read by the secretary at the next regular monthly meeting
following the action.
If suspended, the member shall return to the Chief of the department his bunker gear, pager, portable, dress uniform, and badge
for the period of suspension, commencing no later than (3) days following receipt of written notice. During suspension, the member
is not to participate in drills, fire schools, and fires. Fire calls and drill attendance will be frozen for the period of suspension.
3.1 Causes for Suspension
- Insubordinaton when on duty.
- Violations to procedures as outlined in the rules and regulations, and the standard operating guidelines.
- Traffic violations while operating department vehicles.
- Bringing discredit to the department while on duty.
4. Expulsion: A member shall be subject to Explusion from active firefighter status when: suspended three (3)
times within a twelve (12) month period, or two (2) times for the same offense within a twelve (12) month period.
In cases of a major offense, (as determined by the South Strabane Department Of Fire/Rescue) expulsion may occur without prior suspensions.
The South Strabane Department Of Fire/Rescue will make reccomendation for expulsion under the Volunteer Fire Department by-laws.
5.0 Rules of Conduct
5.1 General Conduct
5.1.1 Department personnel shall endeavor to make a favorable impression upon the public when representing the department
and/or the Township of South Strabane.
5.1.2 Department personnel shall refrain from loitering or otherwise standing idle in front of the station.
5.1.3 Department personnel shall not use coarse, profane or insulting laguage nor use threatening or uncomplimentary
terms of speech which defame or demean the race, gendr, nationality or culture of any individual.
5.1.4 Department personnel shall not conduct themselves in a disoprderly fashion while wearing any fire department insignia
or representing the fire department in any manner.
6.0 Personnel files A seperate personnel file shall be maintained on each member and shall be retained in the office
of the Fire Chief. Any member may upon request, review his/her file at any time.
7.0 Encounters with Disabled Citizens: The Americans with Disabilities Act requires that all services and programs
offered by the fire department be accsessable to all citizens regardless of handicap or disability.
Each emplyee is responsible to exibit sensitivity to any person having a disability and make every effort to accommodate his/her needs.
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