FOOTHILLS COUNTY March 31, 2021 Location: Foothills County Administration Office 309 South – COUNCIL AGENDA

A. GENERAL MATTERS

1. Call Meeting to Order 2. Approval of the Agenda as Distributed 3. Consideration of Additions to the Agenda 4. Minutes – March 24, 2021 5. Accounts – March 31, 2021

B. PUBLIC WORKS/ENGINEERING

C. PUBLIC HEARINGS & MEETINGS

Brenda Bartnik Pg. 2 10:00 AM *1. Bailey - NW 33-18-02 W5M – Redesignation (A to DC#27)

Pg. 16 1:30 PM *2. Chouhan - SW 14-21-29 W4M – Site Specific Amendment

D. MISCELLANEOUS PLANNING ITEMS

Pg. 25 *1. Mann - NW 27-21-01 W5M – Bylaw 40/2019 (2nd/3rd Reading)

Pg. 33 *2. High River Agricultural Society - NE 12-19-29 W4M - Development Permit 21D 040

Pg. 41 *3. Canadian Natural Resources Ltd/Rigstar Communications - SE 33-20-03 W5M - Communication Tower Proposal

Pg. 116 *4. St. Simeon Mirotocivi Church - NW 33-21-29 W4M; W1/2 LSD 13 – Request for Time Extension

E. SUBDIVISION APPROVING AUTHORITY ITEMS

Pg. 124 *1. Hannah - SW 36-21-02 W5M – Request for Subdivision

Pg. 130 *2. Glod/Mahoney - SW 24-21-02 W5M – Request for Subdivision

F. MISCELLANEOUS MUNICIPAL ITEMS

Pg. 136 *1. Fire Department – Updated Standard Operating Procedures

G. NEW BUSINESS

1. Committee Reports

H. OTHER MATTERS

1. Adjourn 2. Next Meeting – April 7, 2021 3. March Accounts Review – Councillors: D. Miller, R. Siewert, RD McHugh PUBLIC HEARINGS AND MEETINGS PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT REPORT TO COUNCIL REDESIGNATION March 31, 2021 To be heard at: 10:00 A.M. APPLICATION INFORMATION FILE NO. 21R005 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: Ptn. NW 33-18-02 W5M AREA OF SUBJECT LANDS: 155.52 acres CURRENT LAND USE: Agricultural District PROPOSED LAND USE: Redesignate a 2.5 +/- acre portion of the subject property to Direct Control District #27 to allow for Home Based Business, Major LANDOWNERS: Todd Bailey APPLICANT: Heidi Bailey PROPOSAL: Application to redesignate a 2.5 +/- acre portion of this Agricultural District parcel to Direct Control District #27 to allow for Home Based Business, Major Advertising of this application mistakenly identified the proposed area of redesignation to be 4.0 +/- acres in size, when the proposed area to be redesignated is 2.5 +/- acres. DIVISION NO: 2 COUNCILLOR: Delilah Miller FILE MANAGER: Brenda Bartnik

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

Location of Subject Lands The subject property is located on the southeast corner of the intersection at 530th Avenue west and Highway #22; two and one-half miles north of the Village of Longview. Policy Evaluation The proposal does not fall within an Intermunicipal Development Plan, Area Structure Plan or Outline Plan area and therefore has been reviewed within the terms of the South Saskatchewan Regional Plan, Municipal Development Plan 2010, Growth Management Strategy and the Land Use Bylaw 60/2014.

PURPOSE OF THE APPLICATION: Application to redesignate a 2.5 +/- acre portion of the subject parcel to Direct Control District #27 to allow for Home Based Business, Major. The application identifies: - A 98.3m square area (2.5 +/- acres) that includes a portion of, and land adjacent to the home site; is proposed to be rezoned to Direct Control District #27. The intent and purpose of this district is to allow for the development of, and operations of major home based businesses on lots with a single family residence.

Page 2 Pending approval of this application for redesignation of this area of the parcel, and subsequent approval of an application for Development Permit; this land use is proposed to support the operation of a used truck sales business, that includes a vehicle servicing department that additionally offers vehicle servicing to the general public (ie: wheel alignments, oil changes, tire repair and changes, etc.; passenger vehicles only). - Included within the area proposed for redesignation is an 1,800 sq. ft. shop, used for the servicing of vehicles - Proposed hours of operation are Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM - 2 to 3 non-resident employees may attend the property - It is anticipated that a maximum of 5 customers may visit the property daily - Approximately 15 vehicles for sale would be located on the parcel - Once allowable under Public Health orders, a once per year Christmas party (~15 people) is proposed to be held on site - Two business identification signs are in use, one free-standing along Highway #22 and one fence-mounted at the entrance to the property - Instructional signage has been posted along 530th Avenue and the internal laneway of the property - Water is to be used for employee/washroom purposes, and vehicles are to be washed on gravel adjacent to the shop

SITE CONSIDERATIONS: - The application notes use of existing access, and the existing shop on the property for business purposes. - The land title certificate identifies existing oil lease interests (2); and pipeline right of ways run through the land, as shown to the right. - A recurring stream runs through a small portion of the northwest corner of this quarter-section.

Surrounding Area: Land use designation in the area is predominately Agricultural District, interspersed with Country Residential District properties. A Direct Control District #12 parcel (Sweet Gas Plant) lies one-half mile to the southwest.

Page 3 Access: This 155.52 acre subject parcel is bounded: - on the north by 530th Avenue: MRO surface. - on the west by Highway #22 The existing internal gravel laneway, which has a ~4m wide surfaced top, comes in to the property off of the approach that is located roughly 795m east of the intersection at 530th Avenue and Highway #22. There is an additional existing approach - apparently for lease site access – that is located on 530th Avenue, mid-way (east/west) across the quarter-section. Physiography: Grassland. Historical imagery alludes to periods of time during which portions of the land have been cultivated. The lowest point on the property is at the northwest corner of the quarter-section, where the recurring stream runs through. The lands rise in elevation to that area of the parcel that is involved with this application (an apparent high point in this area).

POLICY EVALUATION: South Saskatchewan Regional Plan (SSRP): The plan appears to neither fully support, nor fully contradict the proposed land use on the subject property. Support may be considered under that document’s comments that identify the need for development that contributes to sustainable communities and overall quality of life. Conversely, development at this location may not reflect the intent of the document regarding thoughtful planning, consideration of efficient use of land, and the establishment of land-use patterns.

Municipal Development Plan 2010 (MDP2010):  Policy within the MDP identifies that non-agricultural uses should only be permitted on lands where the municipality judges the proposal to have minimal negative impacts on the agricultural resources.  The Economy section of the MDP notes that it is intended to provide for agricultural- related business in agricultural areas and that proposals for commercial uses should be developed to be compatible with the surrounding area and existing land uses. Consideration should be given to size, design, noise, odor, traffic, dust, and the visual impact of the proposal on adjacent lands.  What type of impact is there on area residents and/or adjoining lands; is the existing transportation and utility infrastructure appropriate; is there an impact on the environment? Land Use Bylaw: As this is an application to redesignate a portion of the parcel to a Direct Control District, Council would act as the Development Approving Authority in making determination on any subsequent application(s) for Development Permit. BUSINESS VISITS means round trips to and from the site by individuals for the purpose of doing business on site of a home based business. Business visits do not include vehicle trips to the site by residents or employees, nor is it intended that the occupants of the vehicle be

Page 4 counted each as a business visit. A load of individuals transported by bus are excluded from this definition as this implies a larger scale operation than a home based business. VEHICLE TRIP means one motor vehicle travelling to and from a specific site (round trip). See Appendix B of this report – Direct Control District #27. Growth Management Strategy: The subject parcel is located on the westernmost edge of the South Central District of the Growth Management Strategy.  The growth management vision for the district notes that “Moderate growth is expected in the South Central District, with the majority of this growth taking place on the east side of the district close to Highway 2 and the towns of and High River. Land use redesignation will be carefully considered to avoid creating land use conflicts particularly with respect to long established agricultural operations”.

CIRCULATION REFERRALS REFEREE COMMENTS INTERNAL Engineering /  Existing approaches may require upgrades. Please contact Public Works Public Works to schedule an inspection. Mapping  The applicant is to obtain a second address for the home based Services business. Foothills Fire  Fire inspection of the building will be required Department  Address of the property to be posted  Ensure access for fire department apparatus as per the National Fire Code  Fire extinguishers are to be installed as per the National Fire Code  Fire Safety Plan is to be posted as per the National Fire Code  Doors and means of egress must be as per the National Fire Code  Exit lighting, exit signs and emergency lighting to comply with the National Fire Code EXTERNAL Alberta Transportation has no concerns with the proposed Transportation redesignation. The proposal falls within the control distance of a provincial highway as outlined in the Highways Development and Protection Act/Regulation, and will require a highway roadside development and separate sign application and subsequent permits from Alberta Transportation.

Page 5 CIRCULATION REFERRALS The applicant should provide an estimate of the number of trips the business will generate per day, also the number of trips for morning and evening peaks hours. ATCO ATCO transmission high pressure pipelines has no objections. Pipelines Crescent Point No response at time of submission Energy Plains No response at time of submission Midstream Conoco No response at time of submission Phillips PUBLIC Western Wheel Advertised March 17th and 24th, 2021 Land Owners ½ mile - No letters received prior to the submission of this staff report.

SUMMARY Bylaw XX/2021 – Application to redesignate a 2.5 +/- acre portion of the subject property to Direct Control District #27 to allow for Home Based Business, Major. OPTIONS FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION: OPTION #1 – APPROVAL Council may choose to grant 1st reading to the application to redesignate a 2.5 +/- acre portion of Ptn. NW 33-18-02 W5M to Direct Control District #27 to allow for Home Based Business, Major on the subject property, for the following reason: In their consideration of the application, Council is of the opinion that redesignation of a 2.5 +/- acre portion of the subject property would not be detrimental to the nature of the area and will not unduly interfere with neighbouring land uses or materially interfere with or affect the use, enjoyment, or value of neighbouring properties. Subsequent approval and issuance of a Development Permit for a Home Based Business, Major will be required prior to the property being developed/used for the operation of a Home Based Business, Major.

Recommended Conditions for Option #1: 1. Final Redesignation application fees to be submitted; 2. Submission of a complete application for Development Permit, along with the necessary fees; 3. Submission of documents, to the satisfaction of the County’s GIS department for the purposes of identifying that 2.5 +/- acre portion of the lands rezoning to Direct Control District #27; 4. Upgrading of any approach to the satisfaction of the Public Works department as a condition of the Development Permit; 5. Fire Inspection to the satisfaction of the Municipal Fire Inspector as a condition of the Development Permit;

Page 6 6. An independent address shall be obtained for the home based business as a condition of the Development Permit; 7. Compliance with Alberta Transportation’s requirements for permits as a condition of the Development Permit. OPTION #2 – REFUSE APPLICATION Should Council be unable to support the application to redesignate a 2.5 +/- acre portion of Ptn. NW 33-18-02 W5M to Direct Control District #27 to allow for Home Based Business, Major on the subject property, the application may be refused for the following reason: There is no supporting plan in place that establishes efficient and sustainable use of land and land-use patterns in this area to support redesignation of a portion of the subject property to Home Based Business, Major. The proposed land use district is incompatible with the surrounding area and existing land uses.

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A: MAP SET: LOCATION MAP ORTHO PHOTO SITE PLANS

APPENDIX B: DIRECT CONTROL DISTRICT #27

APPENDIX C: PROPOSED BYLAW

Page 7 APPENDIX A LOCATION MAP ORTHO PHOTO

Page 8 SITE PLANS

Page 9 APPENDIX B DIRECT CONTROL DISTRICT #27

Page 10

Page 11

Page 12

Page 13

Page 14 APPENDIX C PROPOSED BYLAW

Page 15 PUBLIC HEARINGS AND MEETINGS PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT REPORT TO COUNCIL SITE SPECIFIC AMENDMENT March 31, 2021 To be heard at: 1:30 P.M. APPLICATION INFORMATION FILE NO. 21R006 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: Ptn. SW 14-21-29 W4M; LSD 4 AREA OF SUBJECT LANDS: 40 acres CURRENT LAND USE: Agricultural District PROPOSED LAND USE: Site Specific Amendment to allow for a Day Care Facility as a permitted use

LANDOWNERS: Praveen & Jaimie Chouhan AGENT: N/A PROPOSAL: Application for a Site Specific Amendment to the Agricultural District (A) for the subject property, to allow for a Day Care Facility as a permitted use.

DIVISION NO: 7 COUNCILLOR: R.D. McHugh FILE MANAGER: Brenda Bartnik

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

Location of Subject Lands The subject property is located on the northeast corner of the intersection at 306th Avenue and 48th Street east; one-half mile east of Highway #2, and approximately one mile to the north/northeast of the Town of Okotoks. Policy Evaluation The proposal does not fall within an Intermunicipal Development Plan, Area Structure Plan or Outline Plan area, and therefore has been reviewed within the terms of the South Saskatchewan Regional Plan, Municipal Development Plan 2010, Growth Management Strategy and the Land Use Bylaw 60/2014.

PURPOSE OF THE APPLICATION: Application for a Site Specific Amendment to the Agricultural District for Ptn. SW 14-21-29- W4M; LSD 4 in order to allow for a Day Care Facility as a permitted use. The application identifies: - An area encompassing approximately 3 acres of the parcel is to be used in support of a Day Care Facility that is to offer full-time, before/after school, and drop-in childcare services (3 months to 14 years *) from 7:00 AM until 6:00 PM weekdays.

o An existing 2,450 sq. ft. single family dwelling (circa 1955) is to be used as the principal building. No changes to the current structure are proposed. The basement of the house will be used for storage purposes. o A new residence is proposed to be located on the property for the landowners to reside in.

Page 16 o The facility would provide care for an anticipated peak volume of 50 children. o Accounting for growth over the next 3 years, it is estimated that maximum non- resident employees would number 8. o Two existing garages (noted as one of 625 sq. ft., and one of 1,600 sq. ft.), are proposed to be used by employees/landowners for parking, with additional vehicle parking areas as identified on the site plan. Parents will drive in, drop off children, and leave the property. o Day Care activities may include use of a vegetable garden and interaction with animals located within defined areas. A chainlink fenced outdoor area is located to the east of the principal building. o A small (~128 sq. ft.) greenhouse is to be constructed. In the winter, it may serve as a play/activity area. o Bottled water is to be provided for consumption, and two water wells are identified to exist on the property. A new septic tank will be installed should this application be approved. o Standard drop off time would be between 7:00 and 8:00 AM, with pick up between 5:00 and 6:00 PM o Daily vehicle trips may range between 30 to 50 trips using passenger vehicles. A mini van is proposed to be used to transport before and after school clients. o An identification sign is proposed to be located outside the gate to the property.  Council may wish to acknowledge appropriateness of the ages proposed to be cared for – see definition Day Care Facility.

SITE CONSIDERATIONS: The application requests use of existing access, and some of the existing buildings and structure on the land for this purpose. o Of note, is an existing 60 sq. ft. shed on the property that is located 15m from the property line that lies along 48th Street East, when it should be located at least 38m from that property boundary. Should Council approve this application for Site Specific Amendment, a relaxation of setbacks for this building may be reviewed by the Development Officer with the required subsequent application for Development Permit. Surrounding Area: Land use designation in the area is a mix of Agricultural District and Country Residential District properties. Access: This 40 acre subject parcel is bounded: - on the south by 306th Avenue: MRO surface from the at- grade intersection with Highway #2 until 48th Street east, where the surface changes to gravel as it continues east - on the west by 48th Street: MRO surface An internal gravel laneway, of approximately 4m in width, comes in to the property off of the approach that is located approximately 220m north of the intersection at 306th Avenue and 48th Street.

Page 17 Physiography: Grassland with apparent low lying areas/drainage in the center of the parcel (to the east of the principal building, and running north/south) and on the north side of the property.

POLICY EVALUATION: South Saskatchewan Regional Plan (SSRP): The SSRP neither fully supports, nor fully contradicts the proposed development on the subject property. Support may be considered under the document’s comments that identify the need for important social infrastructure that contributes to sustainable communities and overall quality of life. Conversely, development at this location may not reflect the intent of the document regarding thoughtful planning, consideration of efficient use of land, and the establishment of land-use patterns.

Municipal Development Plan 2010 (MDP2010):  Policy within the MDP identifies that non-agricultural uses should only be permitted on lands where the municipality judges the proposal to have minimal negative impacts on the agricultural resources.

 The Economy section of the MDP notes that it is intended to provide for agricultural- related business in agricultural areas and that proposals for commercial use should be developed to be compatible with the surrounding area and existing land uses. Consideration should be given to size ,design, noise, odor, traffic, dust, and the visual impact of the proposal on adjacent lands.  What type of impact is there on are residents and/or adjoining lands; is the existing transportation and utility infrastructure appropriate; is there an impact on the environment? Land Use Bylaw: As this is an application for Site Specific Amendment to the existing land use district for this property, the inclusion of land use considerations ie: setbacks, parking, allowances for structure and uses, fall to the discretion of Council. Council’s recommendations for any conditions related to the subsequent development permit (which would be issued by the Development Officer) may be provided. PERMITTED USE – SITE SPECIFIC means a use provided for in a Site Specific Use Bylaw for which, the Approving Authority must, if the application otherwise conforms to this Bylaw, issue a Development Permit subject to the limitations outlined in the Site Specific Use Bylaw. SITE SPECIFIC USE BYLAW means a bylaw which amends this Bylaw to make provision for a site specific permitted or discretionary use to be carried out on a specified lot subject to any limitations contained in the bylaw. DAY CARE FACILITY means the use of a building or portion thereof for the provision of care, instruction, maintenance or supervision of seven or more children under the age of 13 years, by persons other than one related by blood or marriage, for periods not exceeding 24 consecutive hours and includes all daycare centers, early childhood services, nurseries and after-school or baby-sitting programs which meet this definition. 10.7 CHILD CARE FACILITIES 10.7.2 When considering an application for the development of a childcare facility the Development Authority shall take into account the size, configuration and quality of

Page 18 the site and associated buildings, adjacent land uses, potential traffic generation, proximity to parks, open spaces or recreation areas and potential impacts on other development in the surrounding area. 10.7.3 The Development Authority shall establish the maximum number of children for whom care may be provided, having regard for the above noted definitions, provincial regulations, the nature of the facility and the density of development in the district in which it is located. 10.7.4 The Development Authority may consult with provincial and municipal child service agencies prior to making a decision on a development Permit for a Childcare Facility. 10.7.5 Parking facilities for approved Childcare Facilities shall meet the requirements of Section 9.19. Growth Management Strategy: The subject parcel is located within the Central District of the Growth Management District.  The growth management vision for the district notes that significant development and intensification of development is expected in this area, and states, “While significant development and intensification of development is expected in this area, it will need to be undertaken bearing in mind the aspirations of our municipal neighbours and with due consideration to riparian and wetland areas. Opportunities for joint initiatives will play a key role in providing effective, efficient and affordable services for this area.”

CIRCULATION REFERRALS REFEREE COMMENTS INTERNAL Engineering /  No comments or concerns. Public Works Mapping  The applicant is to contact this department to correct the Services existing address posted on the property and obtain any additional independent address for the proposed facility. Foothills Fire  Fire inspection of the building will be required Department  Address of the property to be posted  Ensure access for fire department apparatus as per the National Fire Code  Fire extinguishers are to be installed as per the National Fire Code  Fire Safety Plan is to be posted as per the National Fire Code  Door and means of egress must be as per the National Fire Code  Exit lighting, exit signs and emergency lighting to comply with the National Fire Code

Page 19 CIRCULATION REFERRALS EXTERNAL Alberta The proposed development does not fall within the control distance of Transportation a provincial highway as outlined in the Highways Development and Protection Act/Regulation, and will not require a roadside development permit from Alberta Transportation. Alberta Health - The owner/operator is to contact EPH AHS in Okotoks to Services submit, for review, in detail, the proposed design of this facility along with an operational plan so as to meet all public health requirements. This is recommended to be completed prior to any construction on site as care rooms, kitchen facilities and related plumbing (sinks) must be configured to meet AHS requirements for the type of facility proposed. - The water supply for the proposed facility is to meet AHS requirements for a safe, secure and potable water system. AHS will complete a vulnerability risk assessment for this water supply. - The owner/operator is to contact the Alberta Government, Child and Family Services responsible for licensing child care operations. - AHS does recommend the owner/applicant contact AHS at this stage to arrange for an on-site consult inspection for facility planning. PUBLIC Western Wheel Advertised March 17th and 24th, 2021 Land Owners ½ mile - No letters received prior to the submission of this staff report.

SUMMARY Bylaw XX/2021 – Application for a Site Specific Amendment to the Agricultural District for Ptn. SW 14-21-29 W4M; LSD 4 in order to allow for a Day Care Facility as a permitted use. OPTIONS FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION: OPTION #1 – APPROVAL Council may choose to grant 1st reading to the application for a Site Specific Amendment to the Agricultural District for Ptn. SW 14-21-29 W4M; LSD 4 in order to allow for a Day Care Facility offering services for children aged 3 months through 14 years of age, as a permitted use, for the following reason: In their consideration of the application, Council is of the opinion that amendment to the land use, and subsequent intended use of the subject lands, would not be detrimental to the nature of the area and will not unduly interfere with neighbouring land uses or materially interfere with or affect the use, enjoyment, or value of neighbouring properties. Subsequent approval and issuance of a development for the approved use will be required prior to the property being developed/used in this manner.

Page 20 Council may wish to acknowledge the appropriateness of locating a new Dwelling, Single Family on the parcel.

Recommended Conditions for Option #1: 1. Final Site Specific amendment application fees to be submitted; 2. Submission of a complete application for Development Permit, along with the necessary fees. OPTION #2 – REFUSE APPLICATION Should Council be unable to support the application for a Site Specific Amendment to the Agricultural District for Ptn. SW 14-21-29 W4M; LSD 4 in order to allow for a Day Care Facility offering services for children aged 3 months through 14 years of age, as a permitted use, the application may be refused for the following reason: There is not an existing plan in place that establishes efficient and sustainable use of land and land-use patterns in this area to support the proposed development at this location. Given the lack of appropriate transportation infrastructure to sustain the proposed development, Council is unable to consider the proposal to be compatible with the surrounding area.

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A: MAP SET: LOCATION MAP ORTHO PHOTO SITE PLANS

APPENDIX B: PROPOSED BYLAW

Page 21 APPENDIX A LOCATION MAP ORTHO PHOTO

Page 22 SITE PLANS

Page 23 APPENDIX B PROPOSED BYLAW

Page 24 MISCELLANEOUS PLANNING ITEM PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT REPORT TO COUNCIL 2ND AND 3RD READING TO BYLAW 40/2019 March 31, 2021 REQUEST FOR SECOND AND THIRD READING TO BYLAW 40/2019 APPLICATION INFORMATION FILE NO. 19R007

LEGAL DESCRIPTION: Ptn. NW 27-21-01 W5M; Plan 8911879, Blk 1 LANDOWNER(S): Regan & Amber Mann

AREA OF SUBJECT LANDS: 10.01 acres CURRENT LAND USE: PROPOSED LAND USE: Country Residential District Country Residential Sub-district ‘A’ NUMBER & SIZE OF PROPOSED NEW PARCELS: 1 x 3.31 +/- acre parcel PROPOSAL: Amendment to the Country Residential District land use rules to allow for the future subdivision of one 3.31 +/- acre Country Residential District parcel from Ptn. NW 27- 21-01 W5M; Plan 8911879, Block 1 with a 6.7 +/- acre Country Residential District balance. DIVISION NO: 5 COUNCILLOR: Alan Alger FILE MANAGER: Brittany Hornsby

PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Request for Council to provide second and third reading to Bylaw 40/2019. BACKGROUND: June 12, 2019: Council gave first reading to Bylaw 40/2019 authorizing an amendment of the Country Residential District land use rules to allow for the future subdivision of one 3.31 +/- acre Country Residential District parcel from Ptn. NW 27-21-01 W5M; Plan 8911879, Block 1 with a 6.7 +/- acre Country Residential District balance. The new 3.31 +/- acre parcel and the 6.7 +/- acre balance parcel will be designated as Country Residential Sub-District ‘A’ to ensure that all recommendations and restrictions as outlined in the building envelope identification, high water table testing, septic disposal evaluation, lot grading plan and comprehensive site drainage plan (provided as conditions of subdivision) are complied with to the satisfaction of the Public Works department. A completion certificate by a Professional Engineer verifying that all aspects of the noted reports have been met and a $5,000.00 deposit as a pre- release condition to ensure compliance of all conditions of the development permit will be required. REQUEST TO COUNCIL: A letter has been provided by the applicants requesting Council’s consideration for the removal of the Sub-district ‘A’ designation from both the new 3.31 +/- acre parcel and the 6.7 +/- acre balance parcel. This letter can be found in Appendix B of this staff report. Required Plans The applicants have recently submitted all the required plans (building envelope identification, high water table testing, septic disposal evaluation, lot grading plan and comprehensive site drainage plan) which were originally set as conditions of subdivision for review and acceptance by the County’s Public Works Department.

Page 25 Public Works has reviewed and accepted the submitted plans, upon their review it was determined that there were no specific considerations identified within the technical reports and the department does not have any concerns with removing the Sub-district ‘A’ from both the 3.31 +/- acre parcel and the 6.7 +/- acre balance parcel. The following plans were submitted by Michael A. Kitchen, P.Eng on behalf of the applicants. Building Envelope Identification: the building envelope identified within this report is consistent with the municipal setback distances as outlined within the Country Residential District of the Land Use Bylaw. High Water Table Testing for Foundation Design: identified that no groundwater was found within the subject parcel. Septic Disposal Evaluation: identified that both parcels are suitable for private sewage treatment systems. Comprehensive Site Drainage Plan and Lot Grading Plan: identified that the lots provide a significant area of absorbent landscape which will provide for adequate infiltration of any increased runoff generated by future buildings. Amendment to Bylaw 40/2019: Should Council choose to support the applicants request, staff requests Council’s consideration of an amendment to Bylaw 40/2019 and the conditions of first reading, in order to address the applicants request by removing the Sub-district ‘A’ designation for both the 3.31 +/- acre parcel and the 6.7 +/- acre balance parcel. The requested amendments are shown below in red: Bylaw 40/2019 was introduced into the meeting to authorize an amendment of the Country Residential District land use rules to allow for the future subdivision of one 3.31 +/- acre Country Residential District parcel from Plan 8911879, Block 1, Ptn. NW 27-21-01-W5M with a 6.7 +/- acre Country Residential District balance. In their consideration of the criteria noted in Residential Policy 3 of the MDP2010, Council is of the opinion that the lands are suitable for the intended use. The application falls within the density provisions and lot size restrictions of the municipalities Land Use Bylaw. The new 3.31 +/- acre parcel and the 6.7 +/- acre balance parcel will be designated as Country Residential Sub-district “A” to ensure that all the recommendations and restrictions as outlined in the building envelope identification, high water table testing, septic disposal evaluation, lot grading plan and comprehensive site drainage plan (provided as conditions of subdivision) are complied with to the satisfaction of the Public Works department. A completion certificate by a Professional Engineer verifying that all aspects of the noted reports have been met and a $5,000 deposit as a pre-release condition to ensure compliance of all conditions of the development permit will be required. Prior to further consideration the applicant is required to submit the following: 1. Landowners are to fully execute and comply with all requirements as outlined within the Municipal Development Agreement for the purposes of payment of the community sustainability fee and any other necessary municipal and on-site improvements as required by Council and the Public Works department; 2. Proof of adequate water supply to be provided for both the proposed 3.31 +/- acre parcel and the 6.7 +/- acre balance in accordance with the Provincial Water Act, to the satisfaction of the County; 3. Revised site plan to be provided illustrating the required 15.0 meter panhandle width giving access to the 6.7 +/- acre balance parcel, to the satisfaction of the Public Works Department; 4. Site plan to be provided which identifies building envelopes for both the proposed 3.31 +/- acre parcel and balance 6.7 +/- acre parcel, that meet the requirements as outlined in Policy

Page 26 9 under the Residential section of the MDP2010, to the satisfaction of the Public Works department, as a condition of subdivision; 5. Geotechnical report to be provided for High Water Table Testing for Foundation Design for both the proposed 3.31 +/- acre parcel and balance 6.7 +/- acre parcel, prepared by a professional Engineer to the satisfaction of the Public Works department, as a condition of subdivision; 6. Septic Disposal Evaluations for both the proposed 3.31 +/- acre parcel and balance 6.7 +/- acre parcel, to the satisfaction of the Public Works department, as a condition of subdivision; 7. Comprehensive Site Drainage Plans to be provided for both the proposed 3.31 +/- acre parcel and balance 6.7 +/- acre parcel, to the satisfaction of the Public Works Department, as a condition of subdivision; 8. Lot Grading Plans to be provided for both the proposed 3.31 +/- acre parcel and balance 6.7 +/- acre parcel, to the satisfaction of the Public Works Department, as a condition of subdivision; 9. Final amendment application fees to be submitted; 10. Submission of an executed subdivision application and the necessary fees.

CONDITIONS TO BE MET AT REDESIGNATION: All conditions of 1st Reading and submission of the technical reports required as conditions of subdivision, have been complied with.

COUNCIL ACTION REQUESTED: Should Council choose to grant 2nd & 3rd reading to Bylaw 40/2019, two options have been provided for Council’s consideration. OPTION #1 – 2nd & 3rd Reading: Council is respectfully requested to consider granting 2nd and 3rd reading to Bylaw 40/2019 authorizing an amendment of the Country Residential District land use rules to allow for the future subdivision of one 3.31 +/- acre Country Residential District parcel from Ptn. NW 27-21-01 W5M; Plan 8911879, Block 1 with a 6.7 +/- acre Country Residential District balance. The new 3.31 +/- acre parcel and the 6.7 +/- acre balance parcel will be designated as Country Residential Sub-District ‘A’ to ensure that all recommendations and restrictions as outlined in the building envelope identification, high water table testing, septic disposal evaluation, lot grading plan and comprehensive site drainage plan (provided as conditions of subdivision) are complied with to the satisfaction of the Public Works department. A completion certificate by a Professional Engineer verifying that all aspects of the noted reports have been met and a $5,000.00 deposit as a pre- release condition to ensure compliance of all conditions of the development permit will be required. OPTION #2 – 2nd & 3rd Reading as amended: Council is respectfully requested to consider granting 2nd and 3rd reading to Bylaw 40/2019, as amended, authorizing an amendment of the Country Residential District land use rules to allow for the future subdivision of one 3.31 +/- acre Country Residential District parcel from Ptn. NW 27-21- 01 W5M; Plan 8911879, Block 1 with a 6.7 +/- acre Country Residential District balance. In their consideration of the criteria noted in Residential Policy 3 of the MDP2010, Council is of the opinion that the lands are suitable for the intended use. The application falls within the density provisions and lot size restrictions of the municipalities Land Use Bylaw. Prior to further consideration the applicant is required to submit the following: 1. Landowners are to fully execute and comply with all requirements as outlined within the Municipal Development Agreement for the purposes of payment of the community

Page 27 sustainability fee and any other necessary municipal and on-site improvements as required by Council and the Public Works department; 2. Proof of adequate water supply to be provided for both the proposed 3.31 +/- acre parcel and the 6.7 +/- acre balance in accordance with the Provincial Water Act, to the satisfaction of the County; 3. Revised site plan to be provided illustrating the required 15.0 meter panhandle width giving access to the 6.7 +/- acre balance parcel, to the satisfaction of the Public Works Department; 4. Site plan to be provided which identifies building envelopes for both the proposed 3.31 +/- acre parcel and balance 6.7 +/- acre parcel, that meet the requirements as outlined in Policy 9 under the Residential section of the MDP2010, to the satisfaction of the Public Works department; 5. Geotechnical report to be provided for High Water Table Testing for Foundation Design for both the proposed 3.31 +/- acre parcel and balance 6.7 +/- acre parcel, prepared by a professional Engineer to the satisfaction of the Public Works department; 6. Septic Disposal Evaluations for both the proposed 3.31 +/- acre parcel and balance 6.7 +/- acre parcel, to the satisfaction of the Public Works department; 7. Comprehensive Site Drainage Plans to be provided for both the proposed 3.31 +/- acre parcel and balance 6.7 +/- acre parcel, to the satisfaction of the Public Works Department; 8. Lot Grading Plans to be provided for both the proposed 3.31 +/- acre parcel and balance 6.7 +/- acre parcel, to the satisfaction of the Public Works Department; 9. Final amendment application fees to be submitted; 10. Submission of an executed subdivision application and the necessary fees.

APPENDICES: APPENDIX A: MAP SET LOCATION MAP LAND USE MAP SITE PLAN ORTHO PHOTO APPENDIX B: APPLICANTS REQUEST TO COUNCIL

Page 28 APPENDIX A: LOCATION MAP

City of

Hwy 2A

Foothills County & City of Calgary IDP area

274th Ave W

48th St W Hwy 552W

Subject Parcel

Page 29 APPENDIX A: LAND USE MAP

Subject Parcel

Page 30 APPENDIX A: SITE PLAN

3.31 +/- acre

6.7 +/- acre

APPENDIX A: ORTHO PHOTO

Page 31 APPENDIX B: APPLICANTS REQUEST TO COUNCIL

Page 32 MISCELLANEOUS PLANNING ITEM PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT REPORT TO COUNCIL DIRECT CONTROL DISTRICT #32 DEVELOPMENT PERMIT March 31, 2021 DEVELOPMENT PERMIT APPLICATION INFORMATION FILE NO. 21D 040

DATE APPL. COMPLETE: March 4, 2021 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: Ptn: NE 12-19-29 W4M LANDOWNER: High River Agricultural Society AREA OF SUBJECT LANDS: 80.28 acres

CURRENT LAND USE: Direct Control District #32 PROPOSAL: Development Permit to allow for the operation of a Personal Service Establishment – Barber Shop within the Call of the West Museum. LOCATION: The subject property is located on the north side of the Town of High River, adjacent to Highway 2A and adjacent to Highway 543 E. DIVISION NO: 1 DEPUTY REEVE: Rob Siewert FILE MANAGER: Brittany Hornsby

SUMMARY: Proposal: Development Permit application to allow for the operation of a Barber Shop within the existing Call of the West Museum at the High River Agricultural Society. Policy Evaluation: Reviewed in terms of the Municipal Development Plan 2010, Growth Management Strategy, Land Use Bylaw 60/2014 and the Intermunicipal Development Plan between the Town of High River and Foothills County. BACKGROUND: January 24, 2018: Council approved Development Permit 17D 264 in order to bring the existing uses into compliance with the Direct Control District #32 within the Land Use Bylaw. Development Permit 17D 264 allows for the operation of the High River Agricultural Society which includes a variety of agricultural events, boarding services, public recreation and social events, public markets, auction sales, event camping, concession services and retail sales. March 10, 2021: Council granted third reading to Bylaw 03/2021 authorizing a Site Specific Amendment to the Direct Control District #32 Land Use District rules to allow for a Personal Services Establishment as a permitted use, within the existing museum building on Ptn. NE 12-19-29 W4M. PURPOSE OF APPLCIATION: Request of the Development Authority to approve Development Permit 21D 040 in order to allow for a Personal Services Establishment – Barber Shop to operate within the existing Call of West Museum on Ptn. NE 12-19-29 W4M. The application identifies: • A one person Barber Shop within the northeast corner of the existing Call of the West Museum. Between appointments, the barber would assist with the Museum operations and cleaning to support visitor access; • Barber Shop will be approximately 138 sq.ft.; • 1 employee;

Page 33 • 10-15 customers per day are anticipated; • Hours of operation are identified as 9am and 4pm Tuesday through Saturday; • Minimal water would be used by this operation as the barber does not wash hair during appointments; • Parking is proposed along the north side of the parking lot, adjacent to the museum, shown on the submitted site plan; • No changes to access have been proposed within this application, existing access locations have been identified on the submitted site plan; • No deliveries are anticipated; • No changes are proposed for the existing garbage and storage areas; • No additional events are proposed within this application; • No additional landscaping is proposed, all existing landscaping will continue to be in the care of the Museum; and • A barber pole is to be attached to the building. POLICY EVALUATION: Municipal Development Plan (MDP2010): The application generally meets the intent of the Economy Section of the MDP2010, specifically noting Policy 2 which identifies that commercial developments should be developed to be compatible with surrounding areas and existing land uses. Foothills County & Town of High River Intermunicipal Development Plan: This proposal aligns with the policy direction within the Foothills County & Town of High River Intermunicipal Development Plan. The Town of High River was circulated on this application and provided that the proposal would have little or no impact on the Town of High River, and as such the Town considers its interest to be unaffected by this application. Land Use Bylaw 60/2014: The purpose and intent of this Direct Control District #32 within the Land Use Bylaw 60/2014 is to allow the operation of agricultural societies, and accessory community recreational facilities providing services and facilities for agricultural related, recreational, tourism, or social needs of the community. This district recognizes the need for community associations and agricultural societies to operate as a viable business thus allowing a multitude of uses accessory to the principal use of the sites and allows for the Direct Control by Council over development of these lands. 2.5 DEFINITION: PERSONAL SERVICES ESTABLISHMENT means uses that provide personal services to an individual that are related to the care and appearance of the body or the cleaning and repair of personal effects. Typical uses include but are not limited to barber shops, beauty salons, hair dressers, manicurists, aestheticians, tailers, dress makers, shoe repair shops, dry cleaning establishments, and laundries but does not include health services. Growth Management Strategy: The subject parcel is located within the Central District. The vision for the Central District identifies that lands which fall within this District are expected to see intensified and significant development. REFERRAL CIRCULATIONS: CIRCULATION REFERRALS REFEREE COMMENTS INTERNAL Public Works No Comments or Concerns

Page 34 CIRCULATION REFERRALS Municipal Mapping Applicant to contact Mapping/GIS to create an addressing plan. It is anticipated that multiple addresses would need to be created for this parcel. EXTERNAL Upon review of the application and information submitted by the applicant, it appears that the proposal would have little or no impact Town of High River on the Town of High River, and as such the Town considers its interest to be unaffected by this application. “…pursuant to Section 25(3)(c) of the Highways Development and Protection Regulation, Alberta Transportation issues an exemption Alberta Transportation from the permit requirements to the High River Agricultural Society for the amendment/future development listed…” PUBLIC None – circulation to the public is undertaken only at such time that

a Public Meeting occurs. SUMMARY: Request of the Development Authority to approve Development Permit 21D 040 in order to allow for a Personal Services Establishment – Barber Shop to operate within the existing Call of West museum on Ptn. NE 12-19-29 W4M OPTIONS FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION: OPTION #1 - APPROVAL Should Council choose to approve Development Permit 21D 040, the following motion has been provided for consideration: Council moved that Development Permit 21D 040 to allow for a Personal Services Establishment – Barber Shop within the Call of the West Museum on Ptn. NE 12-19-29 W4M be approved, subject to the following conditions: Recommended Conditions for Option #1:

APPROVAL DESCRIPTION: This approval allows for the operation of a Personal Services Establishment – Barber Shop to operate on the subject parcel, as proposed within the submitted application and as accepted by the Foothills County Council as Development Authority. Issuance of this approval is in addition to, and does not replace Development Permit 17D 264.

CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL: Please note that the following requirements must be completed within the twenty-four (24) month completion period for this Development Permit, unless a time extension is issued under agreement between the Development Authority and the Applicant(s). Failure to complete and/or comply with the conditions of approval will see the Development Permit deemed null and void. 1. the applicant(s) shall maintain business operations in accordance with all conditions of approval and plans submitted to and accepted by the Development Authority to be appropriate. Additions and/or revisions to the uses approved herein may occur only upon obtaining appropriate approvals from the County;

Page 35 2. the applicant(s) shall obtain and comply with all necessary building and safety code permits applicable to use and occupancy of the involved building. The development and the use of the land are to comply with the requirements of the applicable Building, Plumbing, Electrical and Fire Codes at all time. 3. the applicant(s) is to contact Foothills GIS/Mapping department to create an address plan and obtain all necessary emergency addresses required for this site. The applicant(s) is responsible for ensuring proper addressing is posting on site to the satisfaction of Emergency Services; 4. the business must maintain an annual Business License with Foothills County. Failure to obtain a Business License each year will result in the permit being considered null and void; 5. hours of operation are identified as 9am to 4pm, Tuesday through Saturday;

ADVISORY COMMENTS: The following advisory comments are provided by Foothills County as a courtesy to the applicant(s) and property owner(s). These comments will not form the basis of the decision to approve the development permit application. They are simply provided for information purposes. 1. it is the applicant(s) responsibility to ensure that the site is at all time able to sustain use and occupancy. Business operations and business activities, including but not limited to parking, loading/unloading, and waiting; must at all times be contained within the boundaries of the legally titles parcel. Areas designated for parking and internal site circulation under the acknowledged plan are to be observed at all times. 2. it is the applicant(s) responsibility to ensure and maintain: a. appropriate emergency addressing; b. laneways are at all time kept clear in order to provide for emergency access; and c. a fire inspection occurs upon completion of building upgraded, additions and/or changes; 3. all new installations of exterior lighting must adhere to the guidelines and technical specifications as outlined within the Dark Sky Bylaw 27/2009; 4. the development must meet the requirements of all Federal and/or Provincial Acts, regulations and/or guidelines, including but not limited to the requirements of Alberta Environment with respect to water use. 5. there shall be no long term storage of waste materials on the property, nor burning of waste materials. All garbage shall be disposed of at an approved waste disposal site; 6. it is the applicant(s) responsibility to provide notification to the Development Authority upon completion of the development; 7. the issuance of a development permit by the County does not relieve the applicant(s) of the responsibility of complying with all relevant municipal bylaw and requirements, nor excuse violation of any provincial or federal regulation or act which may affect use of the land; 8. the applicant(s) shall be responsible for payment of any professional costs including legal fees that may be incurred by the County with respect to this permit.

APPENDICES: APPENDIX A: MAP SET LOCATION MAP SITE PLAN BUILDING FLOOR PLAN ORTHO PHOTO

Page 36 APPENDIX A: LOCATION MAP

th 64 St E

48th St E Hwy 2A

Foothills County & High River IDP area

Hwy 543E 498th Ave E

Town of High River

Subject Parcel

Page 37 APPENDIX A: SITE PLAN

Page 38 APPENDIX A: BUILDING FLOOR PLAN

Page 39 APPENDIX A: ORTHO PHOTO

Page 40 MISCELLANEOUS PLANNING ITEM PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT REPORT TO COUNCIL COMMUNICATION TOWER PROPOSAL March 31, 2021

REQUEST INFORMATION DATE OF SUBMISSION: March 5, 2021 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: SE 33-20-03 W5M, W ½ LANDOWNER: Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. CARRIER: Rigstar Communications Inc. (Rigstar) AGENT: LandSolutions LP PROPOSAL: 36.57m (120 ft.) lattice self-support telecommunications tower with supporting equipment housed within a small at-grade cabinet surrounded by 8 ft. high mesh fencing; is proposed to be installed on the Agricultural District property that is located one-half mile east of 256th Street west, and one-half mile south of 338th Avenue. DIVISION NO: 3 COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE: Jason Parker FILE MANAGER: Brenda Bartnik SUMMARY OF PROPOSAL:

Formal proposal has been submitted on behalf of Rigstar for the installation of one 36.57m (120 ft.) lattice self-support telecommunications tower. A 196 sq. ft. lease site on the property is proposed to contain a fenced area and a small at-grade cabinet. The proposed tower is to replace an existing 20m (65.6 ft.) tower that is currently providing cellular service to a Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. site. This project is being funded under the Federal Government’s Connect to Innovate program and this tower is proposed as part of a network extension from DeWinton. This tower, as well as two other towers will each be required for the project as a whole. With respect to the ‘ABMC’ tower proposal previously reviewed by Foothills Council, the agent has noted: “Please pass on our request that these two files/proposals be considered separately. Rigstar and LandSolutions are assessing options for the ABMC tower and determining next steps to ensure customers and residents of Foothills County have improved choices for wireless internet service providers and to support network expansion across the County.” Independent proposals would be required to be submitted for any additional facilities required to serve the overall project.

Page 41 Communication towers are federally regulated and fall under the jurisdiction of Innovation, Science & Economic Development .

As a result of the federal jurisdiction of such operations, traditional municipal land use controls such as zoning by-laws, site plan controls, development approvals and building code requirements would not be the authority of the local municipality. It is nonetheless, a requirement of federal licensing that a proponent consult with the local land-use authority and/or local public where required. Proponents must follow the land-use consultation process for the siting of antenna systems established by the land-use authority, where one exists.

PROPERTY DESCRIPTION LEGAL LAND DESCRIPTION: Ptn. SE 33-20-03 W5M W ½ LOCATION: One-half mile east of 256th Street west, and one-half mile south of 338th Avenue CURRENT LAND USE: Agricultural District (AG) AREA OF SUBJECT LANDS: 80.0 acres

PROCESS: As per Appendix B of the Land Use Bylaw, local requirements include the following and have been addressed with respect to this proposal, as follows: VISION STATEMENT: Foothills, by way of the policies listed, will take proactive steps to limit the number of towers within the municipality by encouraging carriers towards co-utilization. It is important to the Council of the municipality to have telecommunication towers placed in an area that will have the least amount of opposition to and visual impact upon nearby residents.

Page 42

POLICIES:

Location New telecommunication towers should be encouraged to locate in the areas zoned as Agricultural District and Industrial District. All equipment shelters and tower locations must meet the County’s setback distances to roads and property lines. It is proposed that the facility be located on a parcel zoned as Agricultural District and set back greater then 15m from all property lines. The proposal meets the required location policies.

Co-Location All Carriers requesting a new telecommunication tower will be required to identify any other such structure within a 5- mile radius of the proposed site location. Each request should also provide documentary evidence that co- location of the existing structures within that 5-mile radius is not a viable alternative to a second structure. The co-location of additional carriers is preferred and supported by this Municipality. Each new tower request should allow for co-utilization. Required are letters from registered telecommunication carriers indicating that they can or cannot co-locate on this tower. Reasons for not co- locating will be required. The proponent has identified 12 other towers within the required 5-mile search area. A breakdown of those sites has been included within their formal request, included within this report. Noted is: height of existing towers/challenging topography, availability of space on existing towers, and feasibility of replacement of any existing towers. It is identified that Rigstar will welcome future sharing opportunities on this proposed tower.

Public Consultation The carriers will be responsible for contacting area landowners within a one-mile area and for holding a public meeting prior to a submission to the Municipality. The public consultation is intended to provide an opportunity for local community concerns to be addressed when a telecommunication tower is proposed. From the public meeting, the Carriers will be responsible to provide the Municipality with a copy of the agenda and the minutes indicating the topics discussed, additional concerns raised with resolutions, and any outstanding issues that the Carriers and/or Landowners could not resolve. After the Public Consultation has been held, the Carrier, if it wishes to proceed, shall submit its formal proposal to the Municipality. Notice was mailed to 52 landowners within the subject quarter-section and for a one- mile radius surrounding. Due to current concerns and limitations with respect to the COVID-19 pandemic, the proponent proceeded with the available alternate form of Public Consultation which Page 43 included: online presentation, newspaper notice in the Western Wheel, and posting of a roadside sign. 22 comments have been submitted by the public. Of these, it is noted that 20 responses show support for the installation of the tower and 2 were undecided/indifferent. No apparent objections to the proposal were received.

Design Standards Where Transport Canada requires that a telecommunication tower be lighted, the following steps are encouraged to minimize visual impacts: 1. the lighting of equipment structures and any other facilities on site should be shielded from adjacent properties where possible without interfering with the requirements of Transport Canada; 2. all lighting should be a minimum number of low intensity white lights; and 3. the strobe interval should be the maximum allowable by Transport Canada, and the strobe lights should only be used if absolutely necessary. As per Transport Canada’s Assessment, no lighting will be required.

Municipality Consultation & Decision The Carriers will submit their formal proposal to the Development Officer of the Municipality. The Development Officer will present the proposal to Council and will provide his/her position of support or non-support towards the formal proposal. The Municipality will provide its position to the Carriers within a 30-day period of receiving the proposal. This decision will also be forwarded to Innovation, Science & Economic Development Canada by the Development Officer. A copy of the proposal in its entirety, along with record of public feedback, has been included as an Appendix to this report.

COUNCIL ACTION REQUIRED: This proposal is submitted under the local municipality's policies and procedures and is not a request for public hearing and/or meeting. Local and federal requirements include the necessity of Council providing their position (support / non-support of the installation) in writing to the requesting service provider and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada within 30 days of receiving the formal proposal. Any determination of non- support toward the proposal will be required to include rationale as to the decision.

OPTION FOR SUPPORT OF THE PROPOSAL: Moved to support the installation of one 36.57m (120 ft.) lattice self-support telecommunications tower with at-grade cabinet, on the lands legally described as Ptn. SE 33-20-03 W5M W ½ . This support is based upon design and location as have been identified within the formal proposal. OPTION FOR NON-SUPPORT OF THE PROPOSAL: Moved to not support the installation of one 36.57m (120 ft.) lattice self-support telecommunications tower with at-grade cabinet, on the lands legally described as Ptn. SE 33-20- 03 W5M W ½. Council is of the opinion that visual impact of the proposed facility at this location is contrary to the protection of natural capital and scenic values.

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APPENDICES: APPENDIX A PROPOSAL FROM LAND SOLUTIONS

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MISCELLANEOUS PLANNING ITEM PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT REPORT TO COUNCIL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT - REQUEST FOR TIME EXTENSION March 31, 2021 APPLICATION INFORMATION FILE NO. 15D 248 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: PTN: NW 33-21-29 W4M; W1/2 LSD 13 LANDOWNER: St. Simeon Mirotocivi Church APPLICANT: Zoran Milanovic

AGENT: Doug Warwick REQUEST: Request for 2nd Time Extension to comply with the conditions of the permit.

DIVISION NO: 6 FILE MANAGER: Brenda Bartnik

REQUEST TO COUNCIL: This is a request to Council to extend the time to complete the development approved by Council under Development Permit 15D 248. A request has been submitted, asking to extend the permit and retain the sea-can on the property until the church is able to secure and occupy the new maintenance building (currently under construction - 16D 219). Extension until April 15th, 2022 is being requested. The letter of request is included within Appendix B of this staff report.

As Council is the development authority for Direct Control District lands; unless having authorized a person or persons to carry out such duties, they shall consider and decide on requests regarding Development Permits pertaining to lands zoned under a Direct Control District.

The subject property is located adjacent to the east side of 16th Street east and the south side of 243rd Avenue, immediately southeast of the Dunbow Road and Highway #2 interchange.

BACKGROUND: Subject Approval and Previous Council Direction: Development Permit 15D 248 – Accessory Use, Outdoor Storage and Temporary Sea-Can On January 13th, 2016 Council approved an application for development permit to allow for a screened yard for outdoor storage and the use of one 20 ft. x 8 ft. shipping container (sea-can) temporarily. As per the pre-release condition to the permit, a compliance deposit is being held in order to remove the sea-can upon expiry of the development permit. The permit was valid for an initial period of 48 months that expired February 3, 2020. Council received a request for extension for development permit 15D 248 on January 23rd, 2020. The applicant was requesting an extension till December 31, 2020, which Council granted on March 11, 2020. A copy of the decision approving the temporary use of the land is included with this report. Also included with this report is the approved time extension for development permit 15D 248 from the March 11th, 2020 Council Hearing.

Page 116 HISTORY OF APPLICATIONS Development Permit 15D 248 – Pending as per this request – In January of 2016, Council granted approval for outdoor storage and a temporary (not to exceed 48 months from the date that the Development Permit was issued) sea-can on the property. The 20 ft. sea-can and screened storage area are for the purpose of storing maintenance materials and equipment for use on the subject parcel. The sea-can and the facility for outdoor storage of materials are to be wholly removed from the lot within 60 days of the installation of a permanent maintenance storage building being constructed. Development Permit 16D 219 – Active – Approval was provided in June of 2018 to allow for the construction and use of a two-story maintenance building, accessory to the existing approved uses for the property. In November of 2020 Council permitted a requested time extension permitting the applicant to comply with all conditions of the Development Permit by December 31, 2021.

OPTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION OPTION #1: APPROVAL Should Council be supportive of granting a time extension until April 15th, 2022, to allow the applicant additional time to complete the involved maintenance building and comply with all conditions of development permit 15D 248 staff recommends the following motion: Council grants the time extension as requested, and the applicant therefore has until April 15th, 2022 to comply with all conditions of Development Permit 15D 248, originally set forth on January 13th, 2016. OPTION #2: REFUSAL Council may choose to refuse the request to grant an extension to the time to complete the development and comply with all conditions of development permit 15D 248.

Page 117 APPENDICES APPENDIX A: LOCATION MAPS APPENDIX B: REQUEST FROM APPLICANT APPENDIX C: DEVELOPMENT PERMIT – DECISION APPENDIX D: MARCH 11, 2020 TIME EXTENSION - DECISION

Page 118

APPENDIX A: LOCATION MAPS

Maintenance Building (16D 219), including the subject sea-can March 23, 2021

Page 119 APPENDIX B: REQUEST FROM APPLICANT

Page 120 APPENDIX C: DEVELOPMENT PERMIT – DECISION

Page 121

Page 122 APPENDIX D: MARCH 11, 2020 TIME EXTENSION - DECISION

Page 123 SUBDIVISION APPROVING AUTHORITY ITEM PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT REPORT TO COUNCIL SUBDIVISION APPROVAL March 31, 2021

REQUEST FOR SUBDIVISION APPROVAL APPLICATION INFORMATION FILE NO. F2102-36SW LEGAL DESCRIPTION: Ptn. SW 36-21-02 W5M; Plan 1515LK, Blk 6 LANDOWNER: Ian Kim Hannah AREA OF SUBJECT LANDS: 23.99 acres CURRENT LAND USES: Country Residential District and Country Residential Sub-district “A” PROPOSAL: Subdivision to create one 9.53 +/- acre Country Residential District parcel from Ptn. SW 36-21-02 W5M; Plan 1515LK, Block 6, with a 14.44 +/- acre Country Residential Sub-district “A” balance parcel. DIVISION NO: 5 COUNCILLOR: Alan Alger FILE MANAGER: Brittany Hornsby

PURPOSE OF REQUEST: Request of the Subdivision Approving Authority to approve the subdivision application which proposes the creation of one 9.53 +/- acre Country Residential District parcel from Ptn. SW 36-21-02 W5M; Plan 1515LK, Block 6, with a 14.44 +/- acre Country Residential Sub-district ‘A’ balance parcel. BACKGROUND: February 10, 2021: Council granted 2nd and 3rd reading to Bylaw 13/2019 authorizing the redesignation of Plan 1515LK, Block 6, Ptn. SW 36-21-02 W5M from Agricultural District to Country Residential District to allow for the future subdivision of one new 9.53 +/- acre Country Residential lot and a 14.44 +/- acre Country Residential Sub-District ‘A’ balance parcel. The 14.44 +/- acre balance parcel will be designated as Country Residential Sub-District ‘A’ to ensure that all recommendations and restrictions as outlined in the building envelope identification, requirements for an engineered driveway (provided as conditions of land use), septic disposal evaluation and slope stability report (provided as conditions of subdivision), are complied with to the satisfaction of the Public Works department. A completion certificate by a Professional Engineer verifying that all aspects of the noted reports have been met and a $5,000.00 deposit as a pre-release condition to ensure compliance of all conditions of the development permit will be required. REFERRAL CIRCULATION: CIRCULATION REFERRALS REFEREE COMMENTS INTERNAL Public Works Public Works provided the following comments: • Existing approach located on 111th Street W, is to be widened and upgraded to a Common Approach Standard. • A road acquisition to be registered by way of caveat with respect to the full extent of the 15 metre wide panhandle access and along

Page 124 CIRCULATION REFERRALS the entire north boundary of the 14.44 +/- acre balance parcel, in order to allow for the future road right-of-way should it be required. Further, the following is recommended for the +/- 14.44 acre parcel: • Septic Disposal Evaluation (PSTS); Note: a 30 m setback from the edge of the slope is identified in the previously submitted engineers report, as such Public Works is no longer recommending the submission of a Slope Stability Report. GIS Mapping GIS Mapping provided the following comments: • Applicant to contact the Mapping department to update existing address, if required. PUBLIC Landowners (adjacent) No Submissions

REQUEST OF THE SUBDIVISION APPROVING AUTHORITY: Council, as the Subdivision Authority is respectfully requested to approve the subdivision of one 9.53 +/- acre Country Residential parcel from Ptn. SW 36-21-02 W5M; Plan 1515LK, Block 6, with a 14.44 +/- acre Country Residential Sub-district ‘A’ balance parcel. Should Council choose to approve the proposed subdivision, the following motion has been provided for consideration: The subdivision has been evaluated in terms of Section 654 of the Municipal Government Act and Section 7 of the Subdivision and Development Regulation therefore, it is recommended that the application be approved as per the tentative plan for the following reasons: • The application is consistent with Section 7 of the Regulation; and • The subject lands have the appropriate land use designation; Further, in accordance with Sections 654 and 655 of the Municipal Government Act, the application is approved subject to the following conditions: Recommended Conditions: 1. Subdivision to be effected by Plan of Survey, pursuant to Section 657 of the Municipal Government Act, or such other means satisfactory to the Register of the South Alberta Land Titles District; 2. It is the applicant’s responsibility to provide a Real Property Report or an ‘as built’ drawing signed and sealed by an Alberta Land Surveyor, certifying the locations of the adjacent municipal road(s), water well(s) within the boundaries of the appropriate parcels and that the site plan is surveyed according to municipal setback requirements; 3. Completion of all pre-release conditions as noted in the executed Municipal Development Agreement to the satisfaction of the Municipality and where applicable the appropriate external agencies. These conditions include: a. Payment of the $11,300.00 per new lot Community Sustainability Fee; 4. Road Acquisition Agreement to be executed and registered by way of caveat, concurrently with the Plan of Survey, with respect to the full extent of the 15 meter wide panhandle access and along the full North boundary of the 14.44 +/- acre balance parcel, to the satisfaction of the Public Works Department; 5. Septic Disposal Evaluation to be provided for the 14.44 +/- acre parcel, to the satisfaction of the Public Works department; 6. All addresses to be updated, to the satisfaction of the Mapping & GIS Department;

Page 125 7. Public Reserve: to be provided by cash in lieu of land based on $25,973.00 per acre on account of 10% of the 9.53 +/- acre Country Residential District parcel and to continue to be deferred by caveat on the 14.44 +/- acre balance parcel; 8. All accesses to be located and culverts and approaches to be installed to current Municipal subdivision road construction standards, to the satisfaction of the Public Works Department; 9. Landowners are to pay all arrears of taxes on the existing parcel prior to finalization of the subdivision; 10. Landowners are to provide all utility easements and agreements, to the satisfaction of the County and the utility companies; 11. Submission of all required engineering review fees to the satisfaction of the Public Works Department; 12. Submission of subdivision endorsement fees. APPENDICES: APPENDIX A: MAP SET LOCATION MAP SITE PLAN ORTHO PHOTO

APPENDIX B: ASSESSMENT SPREADSHEET – PUBLIC RESERVE AMOUNT FOR SUBDIVISION

Page 126 APPENDIX A: LOCATION MAP

th 96 St W City of Calgary

Foothills County & City of Calgary IDP area

th 112 St W Hwy 552W

Subject Parcel

Page 127 APPENDIX A: SITE PLAN

Page 128 ORTHO PHOTO

APPENDIX B: ASSESSMENT SPREADSHEET – PUBLIC RESERVE AMOUNT FOR SUBDIVISION

Page 129 SUBDIVISION APPROVING AUTHORITY ITEM PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT REPORT TO COUNCIL SUBDIVISION APPROVAL REQUEST March 31, 2021

REQUEST FOR SUBDIVISION APPROVAL APPLICATION INFORMATION FILE NO. F2102-24SW LEGAL DESCRIPTION: 69.43 acre Portion of SW 24-21-02 W5M LANDOWNER: Teresa Glod & Patrick Mahoney Prof. Corp. APPLICANT: Teresa Glod & Patrick Mahoney AREA OF SUBJECT LANDS: 69.43 acres PROPOSAL: Landowners are requesting that the Subdivision Approving Authority consider their request to remove/waive a condition of subdivision approval regarding the registration of an Overland Drainage Easement and Utility Right-of-Way Agreement for the purpose of protecting the ephemeral drainage course on the subject property. DIVISION NO: 5 COUNCILLOR: Alan Alger FILE MANAGER: Drew Granson

PURPOSE OF REQUEST Request to the Subdivision Approving Authority to remove or waive condition #6 with regard to execution and registration of an Overland Drainage Easement and Utility Right-of-Way Agreement for the purpose of protection of the ephemeral drainage course and existing reservoir.

BACKGROUND October 14th, 2020 – The Subdivision Approving Authority moved that the subdivision of one 5.0 +/- acre lot from SW 24-21-02 W5M has been evaluated in terms of Section 654 of the Municipal Government Act and Section 7 of the Subdivision and Development Regulation and therefore it is recommended that the application be approved as per the tentative plan for the following reasons: • The application is consistent with Section 7 of the Subdivision and Development Regulations; • The subject lands have the appropriate land use designations. Further, in accordance with Sections 654 and 655 of the Municipal Government Act, the application be approved subject to the following conditions: Condition #6 states: Landowners to execute an Overland Drainage Easement Agreement for the purpose of protection of the ephemeral drainage course and existing reservoir, to be registered by plan on title of the balance parcel concurrently with the plan of survey. Note: The meeting minutes from October 14th, 2020, including the complete list of conditions has been enclosed within Appendix B for your reference.

Page 130

REFERRAL COMMENT CONSIDERATIONS: At the time of Land Use Redesignation, the Public Works Department recommended the registration of an Overland Drainage Easement to be registered on title concurrent with the Subdivision Plan, for the purpose of protecting the drainage course on the subject property. This requirement is typically satisfied by the registration of a Utility right-of-way Agreement concurrent with an Overland Drainage right-of-way Plan to allow the County to take corrective action upon the land should the landowner negatively impact or alter the existing drainage course on the property, without first obtaining appropriate municipal approvals. Alberta Environment and Parks subsequently advised the County that the existing reservoir on the property is an unlicensed impoundment of surface water; therefore, the landowner is required to obtain a Water Act License to allow the “pond” to remain. No new licenses are being granted, therefor a license transfer will be necessary. If a license transfer is not possible, the pond and dam will be required to be removed. Note: The registration of the Overland Drainage Easement was a recommendation of Foothills Public Works Staff and not that of Alberta Environment and Parks. AEP will proceed with their approval process, and if necessary, enforcement of the Water Act regarding the existing pond whether an ODE is registered or not. Note: Upon request from the Landowner, Planning and Public Works Staff provided the landowner with opportunity to review and propose draft changes to the County’s standard Utility right-of- way Agreement; staff advised the landowner that the revisions may or may not be accepted. The proposed changes were reviewed by staff and determined that they were too significant to accept without first obtaining a third-party legal opinion. The landowner was then given the opportunity to request that County Staff proceed with a third-party legal review at the sole cost of the landowner.

REQUEST OF THE SUBDVISION APPROVING AUTHORITY: The subdivision approving authoirty is respectfully requested to consider the request to waive condition #6 of the subdivision approval granted on October 14th, 2020, which states: 6. Landowners to execute an Overland Drainage Easement Agreement for the purpose of protection of the ephemeral drainage course and existing reservoir, to be registered by plan on title of the balance parcel concurrently with the plan of survey;

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A: MAP SET: LOCATION MAP SITE PLAN & LOT ORTHO

APPENDIX B: OCT. 14, 2020 SUBDIVISION AUTHORITY MEETING MINUTES: SUBDIVISION APPROVAL

APPENDIX C: SUBMITTED REQUEST

Page 131

APPENDIX A: MAP SET:

Subject Property

Page 132

Existing Pond

Proposed DC#29: 64.43+/- acres

Ephemeral Drainage Course

Page 133 APPENDIX B: OCT. 14, 2020 SUBDIVISION AUTHORITY MEETING MINUTES: SUBDIVISION APPROVAL

GLOD/MAHONEY – SW 24-21-02 W5M – REQUEST FOR SUBDIVISION

823 Mr. Alger moved that the subdivision of one 5.0 +/- acre lot from SW 24-21-02 W5M has been evaluated in terms of Section 654 of the Municipal Government Act and Section 7 of the Subdivision and Development Regulation and therefore it is recommended that the application be approved as per the tentative plan for the following reasons:

• The application is consistent with Section 7 of the Subdivision and Development Regulations; • The subject lands have the appropriate land use designations.

Further, in accordance with Sections 654 and 655 of the Municipal Government Act, the application be approved subject to the following conditions:

1. Subdivision to be effected by Plan of Survey, pursuant to Section 657 of the Municipal Government Act, or such other means satisfactory to the Registrar of the South Alberta Land Titles District; 2. It is the applicant’s responsibility to provide a Real Property Report or an ‘as built’ drawing signed and sealed by an Alberta Land Surveyor, certifying the location of the adjacent municipal road(s), illustrating Water Well within the boundaries of the proposed 5 acre parcel, and that the site plan is surveyed according to municipal setback requirements; 3. Completion of all pre-release conditions as noted in the executed Municipal Development Agreement to the satisfaction of the Municipality. These conditions include: a. Payment of the $11,300.00 per new lot Community Sustainability Fee; 4. Municipal Reserve to be provided by way of cash-in-lieu of land based on $13,179.00 per acre on account of 10% of the 5.0+/- acre parcel; 5. Landowners shall obtain and install proper 911 addressing for each parcel, to the satisfaction of the Foothills Fire Department and Mapping Department; 6. Landowners to execute an Overland Drainage Easement Agreement for the purpose of protection of the ephemeral drainage course and existing reservoir, to be registered by plan on title of the balance parcel concurrently with the plan of survey; 7. Landowners are to provide all utility easements and agreements to the satisfaction of the Municipality’s Public Works Department; 8. Landowners are to pay all arrears of taxes on the existing parcel prior to finalization of the subdivision; 9. Submission of Subdivision Endorsement Fees;

CARRIED

Page 134 APPENDIX C: SUBMITTED REQUEST

Re:

Sorry to bother you again.

It was represented to us (and Council) that all the Planning Department wanted was an agreement to preserve the existing drainage course across our land. We had no problem with that, given that we have no desire to alter it and don’t know how that could be done anyway, in view if the fact that it runs in the bottom of a u-shaped valley. We have now spent thousands of dollars for no good reason putting in pins to define the area in question despite the fact that the surveyor we were referred to by the MD describing the exercise as a complete waste of time and money. I provided you with that contact information earlier.

See below. Now the Planning Department (Drew Granson in particular) is insisting on a “standard form” – one size fits all easement agreement which goes far beyond what was asked for. I am attaching a copy of what they sent me. I have highlighted the offending provisions. There was never any mention of things like “construction”, “deepening”, “widening” etc. Given that this document is intended to run with the land it is important that it be restricted to what was requested and approved – preservation of the existing drainage course. It makes no mention of, nor allowance for, the existing dugout and road. The MD could come along after we sign and demand that both be removed. Given what I have seen to date, I am not prepared to reply on reason or common sense governing Planning Department’s actions.

The document reads like a one-sided agreement drafted by a junior lawyer. “One size fits all” agreements are seldom satisfactory. I redrafted it to remove the offending provisions. I have practiced law for 34 years. My revisions were rejected with generalities. Mr. Granson has neither the training nor the experience to comment intelligently on these issues. He is trying to force us to sign something fundamentally different from what was represented and agreed to. The proposal that I pay for a third party opinion, regardless of whether it supports the Planning department’s position or not, is insulting.

Is it possible to ask Council to remove the easement requirement from our approval, or at least direct the Planning Department to accept a draft which conforms to the purpose stated – i.e. preserving the existing drainage course?

Patrick Mahoney

Page 135 COUNCIL ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Department: Foothills Fire Department

TITLE: Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s)

Author: Rick Saulnier - Fire Chief

DATE: 31 March 2021 Presenter: ______

ATTACHMENTS: SOPs

PURPOSE:

To ensure our team is operating from a formalized and coordinated process not only to increase productivity but to reduce the risk of errors.

If the expectation of our fire department is that everyone is to follow the same rules, then we must make it clear what those rules are. The best way to do this is to document them.

BACKGROUND

An SOP is a useful business tool as it communicates the correct way of carrying out an activity within our department. Standard Operating Procedures at a minimum give us the following:

Consistency – The number one reason for procedures is consistency in the way an individual carries out a particular task or activity. The more consistent a process is from person to person, the less chance there will be quality problems.

Reduction of errors – A written procedure details a set of instructions for performing a task. As long as each individual within our team performs the task as it is written, there's a greater chance of reducing errors.

Communication – Another great reason we need SOPs in our department is for the benefit of communication. With improvements made to processes, the operating procedures are updated, and each update requires new training. Updating SOPs provides a method to communicate the process changes to firefighters.

Page 136 RECOMMENDATION:

An essential aspect of any Quality System the ability to work in alignment and according to standardized and explicit Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) we have a review and approval process. The Foothills Fire department recommends with the motion from the Rural Fire Board, a review and approval by means of signing off on the SOPs by Foothills County Council.

Page 137 FIRE DEPARTMENT SOP’S ADMINISTRATIVE

Page 138 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0001 General Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Policy # 0001

1. Foothills Fire Department members are expected to read and understand all standard operational procedures contained in this manual that is pertinent to his or her job description.

2. The fire department will provide sign – off sheets informing members of new policies, procedures or amendments to the policy / procedure manual.

3. Each member is required to sign the sign – off sheet and return to the Chief.

4. A member that does not understand a policy / procedure will inform the Chief in writing if the section(s) and clause numbers(s) not understood. The Chief shall ensure the member receive clarification or training as required.

5. Should the Chief be unable to adequately address the area of misunderstanding, the officer will notify the Chief in writing of all pertinent subject matter not understood.

6. The Chief will arrange to provide clarification or training as required.

7. The department acknowledges that members may have different interpretations, levels of understanding, or appreciations of the SOP’s.

8. In order to promote a better understanding of the SOP’s, the department will provide the necessary clarification, training and evaluation with respect to the interpretation and application of the SOP’s.

9. It is the responsibility of the department to ensure that members are made aware of any changes to the SOP’s and that appropriate training and evaluation of members is undertaken to

Page 139 ensure each member’s understanding (appreciation of the intent) and application of the SOP’s is acceptable.

10. It is the responsibility of the department member to avail himself / herself of the clarification, training and evaluation provided by the department in order to acknowledge via signature, that they have read and understood (have an appreciation of the intent of) the SOP’s.

Fire Chief ______

Page 140 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0002 Rules and Regulations Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose:

These rules and regulations cannot, nor are they expected to, provide a solution to every question or problem which may arise in an organization established to render emergency service. It is expected that they will be sufficiently comprehensive to cover, whether in a general or specific way, the obligations and duties of the members of the Foothills Fire Department.

They are not designed nor intended to limit any member in the exercise of his judgment or initiative in taking the action a reasonable person would take in extra-ordinary situations. Much, by necessity, must be left to the loyalty, integrity and discretion of members.

Scope

These rules and regulations apply to all employees as designated, general, applying to all members, and subsequent divisions apply to those personnel specifically classified. These rules and regulations shall apply where applicable to volunteer support personnel.

Department shall abide by these rules and regulations.

Enforcement

Enforcement of these rules and regulations shall be done by the process as established by Foothills County policy and chain of command structure. The responsibility for such enforcement shall be as designated by the job descriptions, or department policy, or as delegated by the Fire Chief.

Page 141 Daily Station Rules:

1. The uniform of the day will be issued uniform shirt, t-shirts, uniform pants and black shoes/polishable boots for all part time members.

2. All equipment must be checked by the oncoming shift. Anything found out of order should be reported to the Captain on shift. Any equipment needing repairs should be taken care of immediately. The equipment should be clean and neat at all times.

3. The Fire Station shall be cleaned inside and out, and remain clean and neat at all times.

4. If members cook meals and eat at the Station, after each meal, the kitchen and utensils will be cleaned and put in order within a reasonable amount of time.

5. When a member on duty has permission from a supervisor to be relieved by another firefighter, it is the duty of the firefighter being relieved to have a replacement that is a firefighter qualified at the same level as the firefighter being relieved unless specific approval is given by the Shift Captain. It shall be the duty of the replacement firefighter to be present for duty at the agreed time of being relieved.

6. Members shall report to duty at the time and place and in proper uniform specified by the Department orders or a superior officer, unless the absence is authorized by an approved authority. The inability of a member to report must be reported to a supervisor at least one hour prior to the regular on-duty time. Members shall be punctual in reporting for duty, special assignments, and in meeting appointments. Members in uniform while off duty shall conduct themselves as though they were on duty.

7. Paid personnel must be available at all times during their shift. Visitation by non-member personnel is permitted only with permission of the Shift Captain and should be kept to a minimum.

8. On-coming and off-going personnel (officers, driver-operators, firefighters) will discuss and pass on all information needed to operate shifts during forthcoming time period.

General Rules

All members of the Fire Department shall:

1. Familiarize themselves with and be obedient to the orders, rules and regulations of the Fire Department.

2. Attend all fires or alarms to which they may be assigned, detailed or summoned, and assert their greatest energy or best ability to perform their full duty under any and all circumstances.

Page 142 3. While on-duty, keep themselves in readiness to perform their duty and not absent themselves from duty or place of assignment without specific permission of their superior officer.

4. Exercise precautionary measures to avoid injuries to themselves and to others while in the performance of duty. Become familiar with and abide by all safety rules and all policies, orders, and manuals as issued by the Fire Department.

5. Exercise due caution to avoid unnecessary damage to or loss of Department property.

6. Be responsible for the safekeeping and proper care of all Department property in their charge.

7. Practice economy in the use of supplies and metered services and see that waste is avoided.

8. Accord obedience, respect, and courtesy to superior officers and those performing the duties of a higher rank.

9. Be courteous and respectful in their dealings with the public.

10. Promptly notify the senior duty officer of any inability to report for duty at the time required.

11. If relieved from duty, promptly surrender all Department property to their supervisor.

12. Instruct those designated to act in their stead and satisfy themselves that their relief shift have ability and are capable of performing the duties to which they are assigned.

13. When assigned to act in a position of higher rank, accept responsibility for the performance of the duties of that position.

14. Report any accidents, sickness, or injury sustained while on duty to their supervisor, no matter how trivial.

15. Members shall maintain a telephone and keep the Department informed as to their current address and telephone number.

16. Keep their persons, uniforms, beds, and lockers in a neat, clean condition. Persistence in un-cleanliness or offensive habits will be just cause for disciplinary action.

17. Promptly notify their immediate supervisor of any matter coming to their attention that they believe would affect the interest and welfare of the department.

18. Participate in drills and other Department training activities as directed, be thoroughly familiar with all equipment they may be required to use in the full performance of their duties, and perform related

Page 143 work as required.

19. Under direction of the Chief, members detailed to the various divisions of the department shall have charge of the administrative duties of their respective divisions, and shall be responsible for the maintenance of discipline and authority.

20. Suggestions for the improvement of the Fire Department or well-being of the membership will, when presented through channels, be welcomed and carefully considered.

21. Members making recommendations for changes, alterations, or improvements shall consult with and report in writing to their immediate supervisor and to no other agency unless otherwise directed by a superior officer. All such recommendations shall be forwarded in writing to the Fire Chief with the approval or disapproval of the intermediate officers noted thereon.

22. All regular members of the Fire Department shall be regarded as part of the working force and may be required to perform such duties as circumstances of the service demand.

23. When two or more members of same rank find themselves in a position which requires initiative action, the member in charge at Fire Hall will assume command until relieved by a superior officer.

24. When a member receives an order which is in conflict with a previous order he/she shall so inform the officer who issued the conflicting order and be governed by his/her instructions.

25. Any member having cause to believe that he/she has been unjustly or unfairly treated may appeal in writing through channels to the Fire Chief and commanding officer of the station.

26. Articles of protective equipment, such as nomex hoods, fire gloves, lights, batteries, etc., shall be issued to members by the Shift Captain or Chief Staff The Chief shall keep an accurate record of items issued.

27. All members are subject to the rules and regulations and orders that govern all Foothills County employees particularly such rules and regulations as apply to conduct, discipline and transgression of regulations.

28. Members shall not belong to any organization, association, or society which will in any manner conflict with their loyalty to the Fire Department.

29. No member shall use employment with the Fire Department for the purpose of personal gain.

30. No member of the Fire Department shall lend his name to any commercial enterprise; nor shall the member approve or condone the use of the name and prestige of the Fire Department for any such purpose.

Page 144 31. No member shall receive or accept a reward, fee or gift from any person or service incidental to performance of duty, except with the permission of the Chief.

32. No member shall directly or indirectly intercede with a member of a hearing board, a government official, or any judicial hearing in his or her behalf or on behalf of any member of the Department, except as provided by law.

33. No member shall directly or indirectly solicit the influence or intercession of any persons to effect his promotion, transfer, or other personal gain.

34. No member shall solicit or accept the personal or financial aid of any subordinate to promote his private interests or those of any superior officer.

35. Members shall not loan, sell, give away or appropriate for their own use Foothills County property, nor shall they pilfer or be guilty of theft at fires or elsewhere.

36. Members shall not use their position with the fire department to influence the vote of any person for or against any candidate for public office.

37. Members shall avoid political or religious arguments in quarters or elsewhere while on duty.

38. No information relative to the business affairs of the department shall be furnished to persons not connected therewith, except as authorized by the Chief or as permitted by department policy.

39. No member shall report for or be on duty under the influence of any intoxicating liquor, drug, or substance; nor shall he/she be absent from duty or unfit to fully perform his duties due to their use. Please refer to Foothills County policy Manual (Substance Use policy 200-007).

40. No member shall bring or cause to be brought into quarters any intoxicating liquor/drugs, illegal drug, or illegal substance.

41. If any member is taking a legally prescribed drug, it is his responsibility to notify the supervisor who will determine his ability to operate equipment. Please refer to Foothills County policy Manual (Substance Use policy 200-007).

42. No member shall be party to any malicious gossip, report, or activity which would tend to disrupt morale in the Department or bring discredit to the Department or any member thereof.

43. Members shall not use obscene, uncivil, or boisterous language while on the scene of an emergency, while on duty at the station, or anytime he or she is representing the Fire Department in public places.

Page 145 44. The falsification of records, the making of misleading entries or statements with intent to deceive, or the willful mutilation of any Fire Department record, log, or document will be considered a serious offense.

45. Smoking by members will not be permitted at any time in the fire stations or any other place where smoking is prohibited by regulations. Smoking will be prohibited on all fire apparatus and at emergency scenes. Reasonable exceptions may be made by the officer in charge when an emergency no longer exists, but this authority will not extend to permitting smoking on firefighting apparatus at any time or under any conditions. This rule includes passenger cars.

46. Smokeless tobacco shall be used only in accordance to current Foothills County policies.

47. Punctuality is required of all members. Failure to report for duty or to place of assignment at the time specified will be considered cause for disciplinary action. Tardiness shall be reported immediately.

48. Inefficiency or indifference in members in the performance of their duties shall be sufficient cause for disciplinary action.

49. No member shall willfully disobey any reasonable order issued by an Officer.

50. The wrongful or injurious exercise of authority by any member of the Department will be grounds for disciplinary action against the offender.

51. Members are expressly forbidden to engage in any rough or boisterous conduct (horseplay) or similar activities that would interrupt the normal activities of the Department or that might cause accidental injury.

52. Members going off duty shall acquaint their successor with details of their tour of duty; giving them the keys or equipment necessary and such information as may be needed to carry out their duties.

53. Members shall familiarize themselves with the contents of all communications posted on the bulletin board.

54. Members shall keep all wearing apparel, uniforms, and other personal belongings, when not in use, in a locker, closet, or other proper place provided for this purpose. The locker or closet shall be kept in a neat and clean condition at all times and the door kept closed. No storage will be allowed on top of any locker or refrigerator.

55. Each member will be provided a bed in which to sleep. Each member is responsible for changing linens and keeping his bed neat, clean, and orderly.

Page 146 56. No animal shall be allowed at the Station without permission from the Chief.

57. Members may use any bay that is not being used for Fire Department apparatus to clean up their vehicles (with permission from an Officer on duty). The bay is to be used for cleaning only (wash, dry, vacuum, wax). Members must furnish their own cleaning supplies and must clean up the area when finished.

58. Members shall not change or alter the arrangement of firefighting equipment or apparatus without the approval of the Chief.

59. The violation of any of the provisions of the rules and regulations or orders of the Fire Department, or the neglect or evasion of the duties prescribed, shall be the subject of disciplinary action.

60. Personal Vehicles. No personnel are to respond directly to the scene of an incident within the District without the approval of the Incident Commander and or Fire Chief.

Fire Chief ______

Page 147

Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0003 General Operations Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text.

Date: 12/19/2012

Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose: To promote the safe, efficient, and effective operation of the Fire Station.

Objective To provide policy and guidelines for safe, efficient, and effective Fire Station Operations.

Scope All members shall abide by the guidelines contained within this policy.

Responsibility The Station Captain at the station(s) shall be in charge of, and responsible for, the Fire Station which houses their respective Fire Fighters. Fire Fighters shall be under the command of the Station Captain or designate for the purpose of station and equipment maintenance and inspections.

Policy Each Fire Station shall be maintained and operated in a manner, which promotes efficiency, good appearance, and safety to the members assigned there and to the public.

Security

A. The Station Captains and the Fire Fighters shall be responsible for overall Fire Station security.

B. All members shall be mindful of Station security and abide by all those policies, which concern the same.

E. During normal business hours (Monday through Friday, 0800 to 1800 hours, (at the “ station”) and when the Volunteer fire station(s) are occupied, the station(s) shall be open to the public with all necessary lighting on.

F. When the fire station(s) are not occupied, those areas open to the public, shall be secured, with doors and windows locked.

G. When responding to an emergency and the station is left unattended, engine bay doors shall be closed. In cold weather when engine bay heaters are in use and all doors are to be closed when responding to an emergency.

Page 148

H. Business hours may be altered for specific functions, as may be necessary to better serve the public.

I. If it is discovered that any part of a Fire Station, its contents, or grounds have been damaged, stolen, or vandalized, the Station Captain or the designate Fire Fighter shall be notified immediately. The Station Captain or the designated Fire Fighter shall notify the Chief and shall submit a written report whenever damage, vandalism, or theft has taken place at a Fire Station. The Chief shall then coordinate with the Police, as necessary, in such cases.

Safety

A. The Station Captain or the designated Fire Fighter shall be responsible for the overall safe operation of the Fire Station under his or her charge.

B. All members shall immediately correct and/or report to the Station Captain or the designated Fire Fighter any safety problems that they may observe in the Fire Station.

C. Members shall use care and all available safeguards when using power equipment, tools, and electrical equipment.

D. Personnel using electrical tools, appliances, etc. shall plug the cord into the appropriate receptacle. If the item requires a grounded receptacle, the item shall be connected to such. No person shall alter any electrical plug or receptacle (this includes using an adapter, which allows a three-prong plug to be used on a two-prong outlet) without prior consent of the Chief Staff.

E. Members shall use care in the storage of tools, equipment, and supplies so as not to block any access or egress nor impede the response to alarms.

F. In areas where chemicals, gasoline, etc., are stored or used, an up-to-date book of MSDS sheets shall be kept. Inclusive in the MSDS sheets will be sheets on by-products of the chemicals or fuels used (i.e., CO2, welding fumes, etc.). This is the responsibility of the Station Captains at all stations.

Visitors who are not FFD personnel

A. Station visitors shall be treated with due respect and shall be escorted while in quarters.

B. The Station Captain or the designated Fire Fighter at the all stations shall be notified of station visitors. For safety and security reasons visitors who are not FFD members will not have access or knowledge to any FFD fire hall door access codes. Members shall be aware that failure to maintain acceptable standards of conduct at all times shall subject them to disciplinary action.

C. Entrance into quarters for the purpose of soliciting shall not be allowed.

D. Visitors are allowed only in public areas of the stations and shall be escorted in unauthorized areas only if approved by the on-duty Station Officer or designated Fire Fighter. The bedroom area and employee washroom areas are not public areas.

E. All visitors shall remain in the place designated by the Station Captain or the designated Fire Fighter. Such visitors shall not be involved in nor interrupt the activities of the firefighters,

Page 149 including work assignments, training, resting, or any other activity. Members shall be aware that failure to maintain acceptable standards of conduct at all times shall subject them to disciplinary action.

F. Visitors shall not be allowed to park on or in front of any apparatus exit ramp.

G. Visitors (non-public safety personnel) are not allowed in the building after 2200 hours.

H. Visits in parked vehicles after dark are not permitted unless it is approved by the appropriate supervisor.

I. Visits after 2200 hours shall be allowed at the discretion of the station Captain. Visits after 2200 hours should be limited to business that is absolutely necessary to be conducted at that time and place. These visits to Fire Department facilities include parking lots and grounds.

J. An Officer may prohibit the entrance of any person or cause any person to leave the building and/or property when, in the opinion of the officer, such presence may interfere with the operation of the Fire Department, be in violation of these rules or appear to be under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol.

K. The Fire Station, in this policy, includes the building, while the property includes the parking lot and all Foothills County property around the Fire Station.

Economy

A. Members shall use discretion and good judgment in the use of expendable supplies and utilities.

B. All unnecessary lighting should be turned off when that area of the building is not being occupied.

Resting

A. The firefighter’s supervisor may grant early retirement to bed, as unusual conditions may arise.

B. No off-duty personnel shall be allowed use of the dorm quarters without permission of the Chief staff.

Bedding

A. Members are responsible for providing bedding that they may require.

B. Members are responsible for the cleaning and maintenance of their personal bedding.

C. Any bed frame, box spring, mattress, bedspread, or linens which are damaged, lost or require replacement shall be reported to the Station Captain. Chief staff will make the necessary adjustments.

D. All bedding will be washed on Saturday’s.

E. All mattresses will be flipped once per month.

Page 150

Cooking and Meals

A. Meal preparations shall be handled by a mutually agreeable system among the members at the Station.

B. Only one person at a time may go pick up food for a meal. All essential positions shall be covered at all times.

C. Meal clean up procedures shall be handled by a mutually agreeable system among the members at any given Station. Said system shall insure, however, that dirty dishes, cooking implements, kitchen facilities, and dining areas are promptly cleaned up after each meal and returned to a sanitary condition.

Maintenance Supplies and Inventory

All station and grounds maintenance activities, supplies, and inventory shall be handled according to Departmental policy. Purchasing of supplies shall be approved in advance by Chief staff.

Dress

Members shall dress at all times in accordance with Departmental policy.

Parking

A. All vehicles must be parked in designated parking spaces. If spaces are not available, vehicles must be moved as soon as possible after shift change.

B. Parking shall not be permitted at any time in front of any apparatus exit ramps.

Administrative Leave

Chief staff must approve all administrative leave. In order to comply with this, the request must be approved before the leave may be taken. This includes nights, weekends, and holidays. Administrative leave/time off request forms will be reviewed during regular business hours only. The Chief staff or the Station Captain may grant administrative leave time off, for himself/herself and others, only in cases of verifiable emergencies. The Fire Chief may also ask that some form of proof accompany the emergency administrative request.

Reports

A. All reports on actual fire incidents shall be completed as soon as possible after the incident. Each Captain is responsible for quality checking all reports completed during their shift.

B. All shift paperwork shall be completed and turned in to the Administrative Office by 0800 hours following the completion of the shift except in emergency situations.

Page 151 General

A. Members shall be courteous to the public at all times.

B. Members shall refrain from loud and boisterous talk and swearing or any other actions, which may bring public criticism upon the Department.

Fire Chief ______

Page 152

Page 153 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0004 Fire Department Work Rules Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose For any department to operate efficiently it must have a dedicated, well trained staff. These work rules clearly define the responsibilities of the members of The Foothills Fire Department. These work rules are additional to the duties listed in each specific job description.

Level of Performance Each member shall meet or exceed all requirements listed in these work rules. Each member may be evaluated annually by his or her immediate supervisor to determine his or her level of performance. During this review any areas needing improvement will be noted, along with recommendations on how to correct any deficiencies. A record of annual performance reviews will be maintained in the personnel files. If significant improvement has not been made in deficient areas within one year of identification of deficiencies, the member may be asked to resign his or her position.

Work Rules Members returning to the department after an absence may not be required to complete the probationary period at the discretion of the fire chief. All new members must complete the required training classes and receive the required certifications as requested by the Fire Chief. It is the individual’s responsibility to attend the courses. If the requirements are not met, the member’s probation may be extended, or the member may be dismissed. At the discretion of the Fire Chief, exceptions may be made if the classes are not available in a timely manner. All members shall complete at least the minimum required training that is relevant to their position every two years and as listed in the Training SOG. These may include seminars, Fire School classes, or certification classes.

Page 154 Members shall respond to all calls when available and make every attempt to attend mandatory training.

Disciplinary Policy

Please refer to Municiple policy Handbook, Policies Porceedures.

Fire Chief ______

Page 155 Foothills County : Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0005 Information Release – News Media Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal

To develop a procedure for the release of information to the news media

Scope

To develop a procedure that outlines

(1) Which members may release information to the News media

(2) What information may be released to the News media

(3) What information shall not be released to the News media

Person Responsible for Information Release

The news media shall be referred to the Fire Chief when the Fire Chief is on duty.

When the Fire Chief is not on duty, the news media shall refer to the on call Duty Officer.

When a Chief Officer deems it appropriate, he / she may authorize the Incident Commander to speak on behalf of the Fire Department.

Type of Information Released

A Spokesperson may release information regarding non-emergency events such as special events including time, date and place.

An Officer may release information regarding emergency incidents, including;

(a) Number in a given time period

Page 156 (b) Date, time, location

(c) Type of incident

(d) What was involved?

(e) Cause, if it has been firmly established

(f) Estimated property damage

(g) Nature of calls – MVC, fire, dangerous goods etc.

(h) Number of injured persons in accidents and whether serious or minor

An Officer may not release information regarding emergency incidents, including;

(a) Name of owners and occupants

(b) Suspected cause, if it has not been firmly established

(c) Any information as to insurance coverage or lack of it

(d) Any comment regarding fire department actions

(e) Name of victims or patients

(f) Any detailed information as to the nature of injuries or illness

(g) Any comments regarding blame or negligence in accident situations

(h) Type of injuries

Fire Chief ______

Page 157 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0006 Leave of Absence Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Refer to Municipal Policy Handbook

Personal Leave Policy and Personal Leave Procedure

Fire Chief ______

Page 158 Foothills County : Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0007 SOP Preparation and Implementation Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal

To develop a procedure for establishing a methodology for developing Standard Operating Procedures

Scope

To develop a procedure that provides for:

1) A systematic SOP development process

2) Staff input into SOP development where appropriate

3) Providing effective communication at all levels of the fire department

Formulation of standard Operating Procedures (SOP):

The need for SOP will be determined by the Chief; however, his/her decision may be based on staff recommendations.

The goals and objectives will be developed by the Chief or may be delegated to a committee or staff member

Administration Review:

Upon completion of the draft SOP, management will discuss the proposed SOP relative to intent and content.

When an agreement is reached, the required changes and corrections will be made prior to further circulation.

Staff Review:

Page 159 Where appropriate the corrected draft SOP will be forwarded to the Full Time Member for their input as it relates to the contents of the SOP.

A meeting may be called by the Chief to address concerns identified by the Full Time Member.

External Agency Review:

Where an outside agency is identified as having responsibility for the execution of the policy specified in the SOP, its review and conformation shall be solicited.

Finalizing:

The final draft of the SOP will be reviewed by the Chief or his/her designate, and forwarded for implementation.

Training:

Where deemed necessary by the Chief, Training sessions will be held to ensure members are familiar and proficient in the use and application of the SOP.

Fire Chief ______

Page 160 Foothills County : Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0008 Ride Along / Candidate Policy Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Scope

To establish the necessary criteria and procedures for authorizing a ride-along on Fire Department emergency vehicles.

Policy

a) Authorized ride-along must meet one of the below listed criteria and must have completed the below listed procedure. b) Special requests for ride-along which does not meet any of the listed criteria may be approved by the Fire Officer.

General Rules a) The rider must be eighteen (18) years of age or older. b) Only Foothills Fire Department members/candidates shall be involved in the Ride along program. No FFD member will not be allowed access to the Ride along program.

Procedure a) A written request for ride-along will be submitted to the Foothills Fire Department. b) All participants must complete a Liability Release Form before taking part in the program. c) Riding assignments shall be left to the discretion of the Officer-in-Charge on whose shift the participant plans to ride. Members of the Foothills Fire Department shall have priority for space, d) The Officer-in-Charge shall assign an escort for the participant in the ride-along program for each tour of duty

Page 161 e) Escorts would be responsible to show the participants around the station and explain to them the basic rules and regulations of the department. f) Escorts shall show the participants to their assigned place to ride and explain to them the procedure to follow during an alarm. j) Participants shall not be allowed to ride more than one (1) time every six (6) months unless otherwise approved by the Chief, in writing. k) On the Fire ground, these participants shall remain with the piece of apparatus to which they are assigned. l) All participants in this program shall follow the rules and regulations as established by the Chief Officer of the Foothills Fire Department.

Foothills Fire Department Ride-Along Guidelines a) A completed ride along application must be submitted, incomplete forms will not be processed. b) No rider will be under the age of eighteen (18). c) All ride along participants will adhere to the dress code, which follows:

• Neat and clean clothing will be worn.

• Jeans are allowed, but they cannot have rips or holes. d) The participant should report to the Fire department at least fifteen (15) minutes prior to the start of the ride along. e) The waiver form must be read and signed prior to the ride along f) During the ride along, the participant will not offer assistance or try to participate in any Public Safety Activity (Police/Fire/Rescue) unless directed by the station officer. g) The department has the authority to stop the ride along for any reason. In that case, the participant will be returned to the station or dropped off at a safe location. If the rider is dropped off, the department’s communication center will be notified of that location. e) If a ride along is terminated because of problems with the participant, the participant will be excluded from future participation in the program.

Page 162 h) When no previous arrangements have been made, a ride along application form must be submitted at least two (2) weeks in advance of the requested ride along date. i) The Foothills Fire Department has the right to refuse a ride along to any participant, for any reason.

Fire Chief ______

Page 163 Foothills County : Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0009 Personal Cell Phones Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal

To have in place, a uniform set of rules and regulations, governing the use of personal cell phones while on duty or attending incidents.

Scope:

Fire Department Cell Phone

1. All full time employees are provided the use of a Fire Department cell phone while on duty.

2. The Fire Department cell phone shall not be used for personal calls.

3. At no time shall the Fire Department cell phone be used for personal business outside of the Foothills Fire Department.

4. Foothills Fire Department will not pay for the downloading of ring tones or pictures off of the internet.

5. Notify Chief staff when the cell phone requires maintenance or the cell phone is lost.

Page 164 Personal Cell Phone

1. Full time or Part time staff taking personal cell phone calls or texting while on duty is prohibited (unless authorized by a senior officer)

2. No personal cell phones shall be taken on a response.

3. The Foothills Fire Department will not be responsible for lost, damaged misplaced or accidents caused to personal cell phones

Fire Chief ______

Page 165 Foothills County : Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0010 Uniforms Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose:

Rules of dress and appearance create a standard for all members of the Department. Uniform, appearance, and dress rules are established to present to the public fire personnel who are clean and neatly groomed, to instill a degree of personal discipline among members, and to ensure that clothing and hair styles will not be detrimental to safety of job performance.

1. Deviations from uniform, dress, and appearance rules are permitted only with the authorization of the Chief Officer. When on duty all members shall be groomed and clean.

2. After initial issue of uniforms or turn out gear, any replacement items must be approved by the Chief or his designee. Damaged or worn-out clothing will be turned in prior to authorized purchase of replacement items.

3. The standard uniform (as designated by current Department policy) shall be worn at all times when not engaged in maintenance or strenuous training.

4. Turnout gear will be issued and it is the responsibility of the individual to keep it clean. Turnout gear will not be left on trucks when going off duty, but will be returned to the Gear room or gear locker.

5. Items lost, stolen, or damaged due to neglect (as determined by the Chief Officer) will be replaced at the individual’s expense. The individual may replace items through his own effort or have the Fire Department obtain them for him. All items obtained by the individual will be the same brand, material, etc., as that which he/she was issued.

6. Upon termination, all items issued by the Department will be turned in to the Officer on shift.

Page 166 The Officer on shift will certify in writing that the items have been turned in and are acceptable. Items damaged beyond normal wear obviously maliciously damaged (as determined by the Chief) shall be replaced as previously stated.

The following items will be issued to firefighters when they are employed by the department. A proper record of such issuance shall be kept by Chief Staff or designate (Clothing Committee Member).

• turnout coat

• turnout pants with suspenders

• fire helmet

• fire gloves

• boots

• Nomex hood

• SCBA with mask

• Portable Radio

Uniforms issued to Full time employees:

• 4 uniform shirts.

• 4 activity clothing (tee-shirts)

• 4 pair uniform pants

• 1 uniform jacket

• 1 black belt

• 1 pair shoes (black) or Boots polish-able

Page 167 Part time employee uniforms or station dress to be worn while on duty:

• Dark pants, (preferably station pants)

• Dark boots, (black, polish-able)

• T-shirt (supplied)

• Job Shirt (supplied by employee)

Employees, Full, Part time or Volunteer shall not wear any head wear i.e. hats, toques with insignias, patches, advertising or logos representing anything other than that of the“Foothills Fire Department” while “on duty” and or “on calls”. Station head wear “Yellow” insignia are uniform issue and will only be worn while on duty. Station head wear with “Grey” insignia are non uniform issue and will be worn while not on duty.

Fire Chief ______

Page 168 Foothills County : Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0011 Daily Activity Report (Log) Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal:

To establish a procedure report form to report daily activities of the emergency response staff.

Scope:

1. Identify the content of the activity report

2. To record the number of calls during a shift

3. To identify manpower and equipment available during a shift / call.

General

The Designated Member shall complete the daily activity report in the Log Book on each shift, using the “report completion instructions”.

Report Completion Instructions

The following information shall be included in the report;

(1) Date (Report using day / month / year (i.e. 09/04/2012)

(2) Platoon (Indicate the duty crew to which the report pertains) if applicable.

(3) # of members

Page 169

Activities

The following information shall be included in this report;

(1) # of Calls

Record the # of calls during the shift classified as;

1. First / Co-response (medical)

2. Rescue

3. Dangerous goods

4. False alarm

5. Complaint

6. MVC (Motor Vehicle Collision)

7. Fire

8. Alarm Bells

9. Citizens Assist

Routine Duty

This section is available to the member for comments and other activities or concerns not recorded elsewhere.

Equipment or Apparatus Out of Service

The following information shall be included in the report;

Page 170 1. Record apparatus or equipment out of service

2. When recording apparatus or equipment out of service include the unit number and the nature of the problem

3. Note item(s) that need to be referred to, or have been repaired, by the mechanic

Incident Calls

Record the time the incident was received (time out) and the time the units were returned to station and in service (time in).

Fire Chief ______

Page 171 Foothills County : Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# #0012 Physical abilities Test Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose:

The following is a description of the physical ability test, which is a simulation of a firefighter’s job. All participating members are required to finish the entire test in sequence, without interruption. This test will be timed and used as a pre-hire qualification. The test will be administered annually to fire suppression personnel. This test is subject to change by Chief Staff.

Description of the Physical Fitness Tests

This program is designed to evaluate the physical work capacities of Firefighters. The test is broken into two sections: (1) Treadmill Test, and (2) Job Related Skills. Each station is pass/fail. The treadmill test is performed in gym wear and an SCBA (not on air). The job related section is performed while wearing full firefighting personal protective equipment (PPE) & SCBA (on air) that weighs approximately 50 lbs.

You must start with the treadmill test. After successful completion, you are allowed a maximum of 10 minutes to rest and hydrate before starting the second section of the test. You must be geared up in your PPE & SCBA and ready to begin the second section at the 10 minute mark following successful completion the treadmill test. Any deliberate attempt at extending this break will result in an immediate fail. Our goal is to complete four physical tests per hour.

Pass / Fail / # of Attempts:

If you are unsuccessful at the treadmill test, you do not proceed to the second section of the evaluation. This is considered a fail and you must re-schedule your second attempt within 2 months.

If you are unsuccessful at the job related tasks section this is considered a fail and you must re-schedule your second attempt within 2 months.

Page 172

Description of the Task Specific Test

1. Aerobic Endurance Aerobic fitness will be predicted during a treadmill test. This station demonstrates the aerobic endurance required to operate on a fire scene. After a standardized 5 minute warm-up at 3.0 mph and 0% incline, you will walk at 3.5 mph and 10% incline for 8 minutes. In order to pass the aerobic fitness standard and move on to the task specific portion, you must complete the 5 minute warm-up and the 8 minute stage back-to-back (no breaks) in a safe and controlled manner. *If you don’t complete the time, or if you grab onto the railings at any time, it is a fail.

2. Stair Climb The stair climb will involve ascending and descending eight full flights of stairs while carrying a simulated high rise pack on one shoulder. The timer will be started once the high rise pack is lifted off the floor. Multiple steps may be taking while ascending the stairs; however every step step must be contacted while descending. The high rise pack will be placed in the same location it was picked up at the start of this task.

*One warning will be given for a missed step. If a second warning is required, it is a fail.

Page 173

3. Rope Pull Test You will pull a weighted tire approximately 50 feet across the floor using the rope pull prop until the tire stops at base of the prop. This task assesses upper body strength, power, and endurance and must be completed without moving from your initial position and in a safe and controlled manner. *If you move ahead of the line it is a fail.

4. Forcible Entry Simulation Test You will pick up the sledge hammer, stand next to the tire and perform 15 full swing hits on the top of the tire in a safe and controlled manner. Once your 15 max-force swings are complete, you will set the sledge hammer down in a specified area. *If the hammer is thrown or dropped it is a fail.

Page 174

5. Equipment Carry Test You will go to the first pylon, pick up the 2 fire extinguishers, walk through the pylon serpentine and return back to the starting point in a safe and controlled manner. If required, you are allowed to set down the extinguishers to readjust your grip, but will not be allowed to drop them. *If the extinguishers are dropped at any time it is a fail.

6. Ladder Raise Test You will go to a secured ladder in the hose tower, grab the halyard, raise the ladder all the way to top and lock the dogs in at the top rung. Release the halyard. Lower the ladder down in a safe and controlled manner. *If the ladder is dropped or you lose control it is a fail.

Page 175

7. Spreaders Hold Test You will go to this station, pick up the spreaders and hold them at two different specified dots for 10 seconds each (top dot first). This test assesses upper body strength and ability to handle the vehicle extrication equipment in a safe and controlled manner. You are not allowed to rest the weight of the spreaders against your body. You must hold the spreaders as if you are performing an extrication (i.e. hold both handles as if operating the equipment). *If the spreaders are dropped or set down before hitting the 10 second mark it is a fail.

8. Charged Hose Advance Test You will drag a charged 38mm hose that is snaked behind the starting line with the over-the-shoulder method as quick as possible. Once you reach the specified pylon, you may discharge water at the target. Once the target is knocked over, you may set the nozzle down in a controlled manner. Running is not permitted. This test assesses lower body strength and power and must be completed in a safe and controlled manner. *Throwing open nozzle down is a fail. Running is a fail.

Page 176

9. Victim Drag Test You will lift and drag a 175 pound dummy backwards in a safe and controlled manner 75 feet till the finish line and carefully set it on the ground where the test will be completed. This test assesses the muscular endurance and strength required to drag a victim.

Effective Preparation for the Test

In order to do your best, you should come to the station on your testing day well nourished and well rested. You should not do strenuous exercise on the days immediately before your tests. Sleep well the night before and try to relax.

Avoid alcoholic beverages the day before and the day of the test. Do not eat for at least two hours before your test appointment. These tests are demanding and most individuals are extremely tired at the end of the test.

Bring the following items of clothing with you:

. Shorts Extra socks Towel – You may want to shower afterward. Change of clothes

Page 177

Firefighting boots may not have exact fit so bring extra socks if necessary.

6 | P a g e

Page 178 FOOTHILLS FIRE DEPARTMENT

Firefighter Physical Fitness Evaluation – Information Package

This information package provides a detailed overview of the physical evaluation process. More information can be obtained by contacting Chief Staff, Captains or Senior Firefighters.

*COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING CHECKLIST*

To Do: Action: Done:

Read the Information Package Prepare as well as you can

Questions or Problems Email or phone us for help

Sign Waiver Bring Signed Waiver to Test Day

Please read the following information carefully in order to prepare for the tests.

Description of the Physical Fitness Tests

This program is designed to evaluate the physical work capacities of Firefighters. Each station is pass/fail. The job related section is performed while wearing full firefighting personal protective equipment (PPE) & SCBA (on air) that weighs approximately 50 lbs.

You must be geared up in your PPE & SCBA to complete the firefighter task specific test.

Pass / Fail:

This is a task specific test that has to be completed in its entirety as described.

Page 179 FOOTHILLS FIRE DEPARTMENT

Firefighter Physical Fitness Evaluation

Waiver and Release Form

This waiver and release form is to be signed by the individual attempting the Foothills Fire Department Firefighter Physical Evaluation. The signed waiver and release form must be in the possession of the individual prior to commencing the fitness evaluation.

I, ______, individual, hereby release and forever discharge the Foothills Fire Department, their members, employees, agents and assigns from any and all actions, causes of actions, claims and demands for damages, loss or injury as a result of the physical fitness evaluation. I have read and understand the requirements of the fitness evaluation and circumstances should I not be successful.

Signature______Date______

Fire Chief ______

Page 180 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0016 “Transitional Duty, Restricted Work or Light Duties Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Refer to Municipal Policy Handbook

Transitional Duty, Restricted Work or Light Duties

Fire Chief ______

Page 181 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0020 Abbreviations Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose:

To provide a means of producing a clear and concise communications through the reasonable use of abbreviations within the Fire Departments records and reports.

Policy

A. Within this policy there shall be provided a listing of approved abbreviations which are appropriate for use in all department written communications. B. Unapproved abbreviations may be utilized in a communiqué provided that a clear and specific definition of that abbreviation is provided within that communiqué. C. Utilization of abbreviations shall be at the discretion of the communicator but shall not be utilized in such a manner as to hinder clarity or continuity of communiqué.

ADMINISTRATION ABBREVIATIONS

A. Month of the year:

Jan – January Feb – February Mar – March Apr – April May – May Jun – June Jul – July Aug – August Sep – September Oct – October Nov – November Dec - December

Page 182

B. Days of the week:

Mon – Monday Tue – Tuesday Wed – Wednesday Thu – Thursday Fri – Friday Sat – Saturday Sun – Sunday

C. Directions:

N – North S – South E – East W – West NE – Northeast NW – Northwest SE – Southeast SW – Southwest

D. Rank

FC - Fire Chief DC – Deputy Chief DC – Deputy Fire Chief DDC – Deputy District Chief Capt – Captain SR.FF – Senior Firefighter FF – Fire Fighter PT - Part-time PT – Part-Time CDT - Candidate FI – Fire Inspector BC – Battalion Chief IC – Incident Commander OIC – Officer in Charge PIO - Public Information Officer Lt – Lieutenant Disp – Dispatcher PPC – Paid per call

E. Roadway Abbreviations

Av – Avenue Ld – Landing Ba – Bay Li – Link Bv – Boulevard Ln – Lane Ci – Circle Me – Mews

Page 183 Cl – Close Mr – Manor Cm – Common Pa – Park Co – Court Pl – Place Cr – Cresent Pt – Point Cv – Cove Rd – Road Dr – Drive Rp – Ramp Ga – Gate Ri – Rise Gr – Green Sq – Square Gv – Groove St – Street Hi – Hill Tr – Trail Ht – Height Wy – Way

F. General Abbreviations

Bldg – Building Co – Company Comm – Communications Cp – Command Post CPO - Community Peace Officer DEM – Director of Emergency Management D/DEM – Deputy Director of Emergency Management Dept – Department DG – Dangerous Goods DOA – Dead on Arrival Eng – Engine ECC – Emergency Coordination Center EOC - Emergency Operation Center ER – Emergency Room ESM – Emergency Site Manager FCO – Fire Commissioners Office FD – Fire Department FDC – Fire Department Connection FP - Foothills Patrol FRESC – Foothills Regional Emergency Comms Center ICS – Incident Command System

Page 184 Insp – Inspection LPG – Liquefied Petroleum Gas FFD – Foothills Fire Department OFD – Okotoks Fire Department HRFD - HighRiver Fire Department BDFD - Black Diamond Fire Department TVFD - Fire Department PD – Police Department RCMP – Royal Canadian Mounted Police Trk – Truck

PHONETIC ALPHABET A – Alpha B – Bravo C – Charlie D – Delta E – Echo F – Foxtrot G – Golf H – Hotel I – India J – Juliet K – Kilo L – Lima M – Mike N – November O – Oscar P – Papa Q – Quebec R – Romeo S – Sierra T – Tango U – Uniform V – Victor W – Whiskey

Page 185 X – Xray Y – Yankee Z - Zulu

Fire Chief ______

Page 186 Foothills County : Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0021 Lost or Damaged Equipment Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose: To ensure that matters concerning lost or damaged Fire Department equipment are properly managed.

Objective To establish Fire Department policy and procedures relative to lost and damaged equipment.

Scope This policy applies to all Foothills Fire Department personnel.

Responsibility Members who may become aware of lost or damaged Fire Department equipment shall promptly report such conditions, through channels, in accordance with the procedures contained within this policy.

Policy A. Any member who becomes aware of lost or damaged Fire Department equipment shall notify their Station Officer and shall submit a written report explaining the particulars of the situation to the same.

B. If the Officer feels that a replacement is needed immediately, and one is not available, he/she shall notify Chief Staff. Chief Staff shall take inventory of all stations and see if a loaner is available, and if one is not, take the necessary steps to obtain a replacement as quickly as possible.

C. The Officer shall investigate the known facts of the situation and shall forward the

Page 187 previously mentioned written report, with his additional comments, to Chief Staff.

D. The Officer in charge of apparatus shall make the necessary arrangements to provide replacement or repair of lost or damaged equipment.

E. The Captain and Chief Staff shall make an assessment as to whether theft or vandalism has occurred and, if necessary, notify the Police Department.

F. Chief Staff shall notify the Director of Community Services of the situation and of those actions which have been taken.

Fire Chief ______

Page 188 Foothills County : Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0022 Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC) Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose: This procedure is designed to establish guidelines to facilitate the most effective method for deploying the thermal image camera in a way that provides the most protection for fire department personnel, and to provide a reference document to be used for training of personnel in the uses, deployment, limitations, operation, care and maintenance of the Thermal Image Camera (TIC).

Scope – This guideline will apply to the use of all thermal imaging cameras assigned to Foothills Fire Department.

Safety- Use of a TIC during emergency operations will provide the means for locating victims and fire in a more expeditious manner. This will greatly enhance the safety of personnel by limiting time spent in the hazardous area searching for victims and the seat of fire. It must be remembered that a TIC is a tool to be utilized by firefighters and will be used to augment sound strategy, tactics and time tested interior structural firefighting and rescue procedures.

Thermal Image Camera Uses

A. Provides safer navigation in a space where there is diminished visibility due to smoke. B. Allow personnel to "see" in a diminished visibility environment, which is a very useful addition to traditional search and rescue techniques. Utilizing a TIC can substantially reduce the time necessary for completing a primary search. C. Enables suppression crews to execute a faster, more effective interior attack. The shortest route to the fire, holes in the floor and obstacles in the structure can be

Page 189 determined and located efficiently. D. Reduces fatigue of interior crews because efficiency in performing searches and suppression is increased. E. Allows Rapid Intervention Teams to quickly and efficiently locate downed firefighters. F. May be used to determine fluid level within a container, which may be useful during an incident involving a hazardous material. G. May be used as a search tool to locate lost persons in open wilderness areas.

Inspection Procedures

A. The camera should be checked as part of the (weekly) equipment check of the apparatus to which it is assigned. B. The camera should be inspected for cleanliness. If any part of the camera is dirty a clean rag dampened with soapy water should be used to clean the camera. No harsh detergents or solvents should be used. To clean accumulated soot from the lens a soft cloth and alcohol should be used. C. The camera and its carrying strap must be thoroughly dry before being returned to the airtight case. D. The camera should be turned on and checked for proper operation and then turned off. E. If the battery charge indicator displays more than one bar of discharge the spare battery should be placed in the unit and the discharged battery charged with the provided charging unit. F. The camera should be returned to its case and all latches secured. G. Problems with the unit should be reported to Chief Staff or any officer.

Maintenance

A. Batteries should be rotated weekly and charge as necessary on a set day (i.e. weekly drill night).

Page 190 B. Screws on the camera should be checked periodically for tightness. C. After the camera is used on an incident it should be thoroughly cleaned and dried before it is returned to its airtight case and the camera's battery, along with the spare, should be fully charged.

Fire Chief ______

Page 191 Foothills County : Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0027 Jewelry Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose:

With the exception of wedding bands, wrist watches and medic alert (jewelry), jewelry of any kind shall not be worn while on shift and or performing Firefighting duties.

EXPECTATION:

• All employees (except office Administration), Full, Part time or Volunteer who perform fire related duties shall follow this policy

• FFD shall incorporate this policy into their safety rules.

• New hire orientation programs shall cover the jewelry policy.

Fire Chief ______

Page 192 Foothills County : Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0028 Vehicle Inspection / Cleaning Location: Heritage Pointe / All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal

To have in place an inspection / cleaning policy for fire department vehicles to ensure the operational readiness and cleanliness of all vehicles.

Scope:

To prepare a procedure for the

A. Daily inspection and cleaning of fire apparatus. (HP station only)

B. Inspection and cleaning of fire apparatus after an emergency incident.

C. Weekly inspection of fire apparatus and equipment.

D. Quarterly deep cleaning of all vehicles.

It is the responsibility of the Foothills Fire department Member(s) to ensure that the fire department vehicles are left in operational readiness and clean condition upon completion of each shift. The Foothills Fire Department Member(s) shall inform the incoming Foothills Fire Department Member(s) of any mechanical or equipment deficiencies noted during their shift and vehicles that require cleaning.

Definitions:

The term vehicle, when used in this policy, includes all fire apparatus and command vehicles.

Page 193 The term cleaned, when used in this policy, means all areas including exterior, interior, compartments, glass and chrome surfaces of the vehicle are free of dirt, filth and foreign material including water spots, soap streaks or other removable stains. The interior surfaces including glass have been dusted, wiped and vacuumed as required.

Inspection and Cleaning of Vehicles

Department vehicles shall be inspected by checking:

A. The horn

B. All tools, equipment and appliances

C. The cleanliness of the interior and exterior of the vehicle

D. Body and Chassis.

E. Visual Inspection of Tires.

F. Under Chassis for Leaks.

G. Booster Tank Full.

H. Foam Tanks Full.

I. Fuel Level. Fill if less than three-quarters full.

J. DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) (if applicable). Fill if less than three-quarters full.

K. Engine Oil Level.

L. Radiator Level.

M. Primer Pump Oil Level.

N. Windshield Washer Fluid Level.

O. Running Lights - headlights, clearance lights, directional lights etc.

Page 194 P. Emergency Lights, Beacons, Siren, Scene Lights, etc.

Q. Hand lights.

R. Portable radios.

S. Check and run all small engines such as rescue and ventilation saws, generators, PPV fans and portable pumps.

T. Check and calibrate CO and Multi-Gas Meters.

U. Check operation of Extrication tools.

V. Check primer pump oil, as it applies.

W. Check operation of Seat Belt Warning Indicator.

X. Check that correct equipment is on apparatus.

Y. Check that all equipment is clean and in serviceable condition.

Z. Check hose loads.

AA. Check that nozzles are clean, operable and that combination fog nozzles are set at correct pattern and flow.

BB. SCBA Functional Inspection and Test (tanks with less than 4,000 psi should be filled).

CC. Small engine fuel tanks full.

DD. Check all Aux. equipment & switches.

EE. Quarterly deep clean – add/drain & refill water tank.

• Fuel cans full. • If apparatus has not left station in the past month, take for a 15-minute road test. • Fire extinguishers - check for current inspection date and initial tag. • Check AED and record on AED inspection form. • Check EMS bag and equipment including O2 bottles and regulators • Check vehicle inspection date. • Wash vehicle if needed.

Page 195

Note: Damage shall be reported to the Chief, in writing of any damage.

During -10C weather or colder, vehicles shall not be washed with a power washer, however, interior spaces, glass, mirror and exposed chrome surface shall be cleaned.

As the weather warms Foothills Fire Department Members shall ensure all vehicles are thoroughly washed and cleaned as soon as possible.

If during the inspection, tools or equipment are found to be missing, the member(s) completing the inspection shall report the items missing to the Officers. The Foothills Fire Department Member(s) shall endeavor to locate and replace the missing item(s). Missing equipment that cannot be located, or is substituted with spare equipment shall be reported to Chief Staff, indicating what item(s) are missing or have been replaced with spare equipment.

During the inspection of the vehicle any mechanical deficiencies found are to be reported to the Officer(s), The Officer shall inform Chief Staff. of all deficiencies in writing. A copy of the letter will be forwarded to the Fire department mechanic.

Inspection and Cleaning of Vehicles after Emergency Incidents

Upon returning to the Fire station, after emergency incident, the Member(s) assigned to inspect and clean the vehicle shall ensure that:

A. The vehicle is properly washed

B. The booster tank is full

C. The pump is flushed with clean water if the vehicle was used to draft water

D. The Pump is properly drained in cold weather.

E. Fire hose, equipment and appliances have been checked and replaced if applicable

F. The driver’s cab and crew cab are cleaned

Page 196 G. All exposed chrome surfaces has been cleaned and dried with a chamois

H. The radiator surge tank liquid level is checked

I. All glass and mirror areas have been cleaned

J. The oil level is checked after the unit has sat for a minimum of twenty minutes

K. The tires have been visually checked for damage and air pressure,

L. The fuel level has been checked, and fuel added if applicable

M. Any damage to the vehicle is reported to the Officer

Weekly Inspection of Vehicles and Equipment

Vehicles and equipment shall be inspected weekly by

A. Starting all vehicles and allowing them to run until they reach operating temperature

B. Engaging the pumps and checking relief valves, if applicable

C. Inspecting fluid levels of all small equipment

D. Testing the mobile radio

E. Testing the horn and siren

F. Checking all equipment and appliances to ensure the appropriate amount (i.e. number of hoses) are located on each apparatus

G. Open and close all drains

All deficiencies and or missing equipment shall be reported to the Officer. The Officer shall inform Chief Staff of deficiencies or missing equipment, in writing.

Quarterly Deep Cleaning of all Vehicles

All vehicles, as per approved schedule shall be deep cleaned by:

Page 197 A. Removing all equipment from the storage compartments

B. Washing and drying each compartment

C. Washing and drying of all small equipment and appliances

D. Deep cleaning the drivers cab and crew cab

E. Cleaning all glass surfaces

F. Cleaning all mirror surfaces

G. Cleaning and polishing all chrome surfaces

H. Vacuuming seats and floor areas of interior areas

I. Dusting and cleaning all vinyl surfaces

J. Hand washing the exterior of the vehicle by using sponges and hand brushes

K. Waxing the vehicle, if applicable

Note: Deficiencies shall be reported to the Officer. The Officer shall inform Chief Staff in writing, all deficiencies

Engine pump maintenance

Lubrication of valves

All suction ports, inlet ports and discharge vales are requires being clean for easy operation.

On engines with side or transverse panels, lubricate all linkage to valves

Fire Chief ______

Page 198 Foothills County : Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0031 “No Idling Policy” Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal

As an energy efficient community we are mandated through council to find ways of reducing the consumption of energy in our communities

Scope

This policy refers to the entire service fleet including command vehicles and small engines

1.0 Non Emergency

1. No vehicle shall be left idling for more than 3 minutes anywhere.

2. Vehicle maintenance and equipment checks require idling for periods of time.

3. On high idle during winter conditions.

2.0 Emergency

1. Vehicles set up with high speed idle will remain idling while lights are flashing.

2. Vehicles set up with high speed idle switch shall be turned on just after arriving at an incident and switched off just prior to leaving the scene.

Page 199 3. At any time that the emergency lights are not required, the officer on scene may shut down the fire apparatus to conserve fuel.

4. Idling is permitted for the circulation of water during inclement weather.

Fire Chief ______

Page 200 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0051 Drug and Alcohol Policy Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Refer to Foothills County Policy Handbook

Substance use and Wellness Policy and Substance use and Wellness Procedure

Fire Chief ______

Page 201 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0053 SEXUAL HARASSMENT, HARASSMENT, & DISCRIMINATION IN THE WORKPLACE Location: Click here to enter text. Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Refer to Foothills County Policy Handbook

Discrimmination/Harassment Policy and Discrimmination/Harrassment Procedure.

Fire Chief ______

Page 202 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0054 Incident Safety Officer Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose:

This guideline is to provide a job description for the Incident Safety Officer of the Foothills Fire Department.

Scope - This guideline applies to all persons designated as an Incident Safety Officer. : Refer to NFPA 1521

II. Appointment A. The fire Chief shall appoint a safety officer. B. If the Safety Officer is not available at an incident the Incident Commander may appoint another qualified person for that incident.

III. Responsibilities A. Monitor conditions, activities, and operations: With a perceived risk, then take action. B. Ensure the establishment of Rehab C. Monitor and report status of conditions, hazards, and risks to the I.C. D. Ensure the Personnel Accountability System is being utilized E. Receive an Incident Action Plan from the I.C.: Then provide a Risk Assessment of incident scene operations F. Ensure the establishment of safety zones, collapse zones, hot zones, and other hazard areas: Communicate to all members present G. Evaluate traffic hazards and apparatus placement: Take appropriate actions to mitigate hazards H. Monitor radio transmissions: Stay alert for missed, unclear, or incomplete communications

Page 203 I. Communicate to I.C. the need for assistance: Due to need, size, complexity, or duration J. Ensure that a Rapid Intervention Team is available and ready K. Evaluate smoke and fire conditions and advise the I.C. on potential for flashover, backdraft, blow-up, or other fire event that could pose a threat to operating teams L. Monitor accessibility of entry and egress of structures conducting interior operations M. Investigate injuries occurring during fire department incidents and report such to the chief. N. Air Monitoring

IV. Accident and Injury Investigations A. The Safety Officer will investigate all accidents and injuries occurring within their respective shift. B. They shall submit a written report of their findings and recommended solutions to prevent similar injuries or accidents from occurring in the future.

Fire Chief ______

Page 204 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0063 Highway Safety Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose: This procedure identifies parking practices for Foothills Fire Department apparatus and vehicles that will provide maximum protection and safety for personnel operating in or near moving vehicle traffic. It also identifies several approaches for individual practices to keep firefighters safe while exposed to the hazardous environment created by moving traffic. Level of Performance: It shall be the policy of the Foothills Fire Department to position apparatus and other emergency vehicles at a vehicle-related incident on any street, road, highway or expressway in a manner that best protects the incident scene and the work area. Such positioning shall afford protection to fire department personnel, law enforcement officers, tow service operators and the motoring public from the hazards of working in or near moving traffic. All personnel should understand and appreciate the high risk that personnel are exposed to when operating in or near moving vehicle traffic. Responders should always operate within a protected environment at any vehicle-related roadway incident. Night time incidents requiring personnel to work in or near moving near traffic are particularly hazardous. Visibility is reduced and driver reaction time to hazards in the roadway is slowed. High visabilty vest will be worn at all MVC incidents day or night. Safety Benchmarks All emergency personnel are at great risk of injury or death while operating in or near moving traffic. There are several specific tactical procedures that should be taken to protect all crewmembers and emergency service personnel at the incident scene including;

Page 205 1. Never trust approaching traffic 2. Establish an initial "block" with the first arriving emergency vehicle or fire apparatus, if situation dictates. 3. Always wear high visibility reflective apparel during roadway operations 4. Always wear structural firefighting helmet 5. Wear full protective clothing plus the highway safety vest if appropriate at all vehicle-related emergencies between the hours of dusk and dawn or whenever lighting levels are reduced due to inclement weather conditions, Coveralls or Bunker Gear Apparatus and Emergency Vehicle Benchmarks 1. Positioning of large apparatus must create a safe area for EMS units and other fire vehicles. 2. When blocking with apparatus to protect the emergency scene, establish a sufficient size work zone that includes all damaged vehicles, roadway debris, the patient triage and treatment area, the extrication work area, personnel and tool staging area and the ambulance loading zone. 3. Ambulance should be positioned according to AHS protocalls, within the protected work area with their rear patient loading door area angled away from the nearest lanes of moving traffic 4. Command shall stage unneeded emergency vehicles off the roadway or return these units to service whenever possible. 5. At all intersections or where the incident may be near the middle lane of the roadway, two or more sides of the incident will need to be protected. 6. Traffic cones shall be deployed from the rear of the blocking apparatus toward approaching traffic to increase the advance warning provided for approaching motorists. 7. Additional traffic cones shall be retrieved from other units to extend the advance warning area for approaching motorists if needed.

Incident Command Benchmarks The initial-arriving officer and/or the Incident Commander must complete critical benchmarks to assure that a safe and protected work environment for emergency scene personnel is established and maintained including; 1. Assure that the first-arriving apparatus establishes an initial block or fend-off position to create an initial safe work area 2. Assign a parking location for all ambulances as well as later-arriving apparatus. • Lanes of traffic shall be identified numerically as "Lane 1", "Lane 2", etc., beginning from the right to the left when right and left are considered from the approaching motorist's point of view. Typically, vehicles travel a lower speed in the lower number lanes.

Page 206 • Directions "Right" and "Left" shall be as identified as from the approaching motorist's point of view left or right. • Instruct the driver of the ambulance to "block to the right" or "block to the left" as it is parked at the scene to position the rear patient loading area away from the closest lane of moving traffic. 3. Assure that all ambulances on-scene are placed within the protected work area (shadow) of the larger apparatus. 4. Assure that all patients loading into EMS Units is done from within a protected work zone. 5. At residential medical emergencies, Command shall direct ambulances to park at the nearest curb to the residence for safe patient loading whenever possible. Emergency Crew Personnel Benchmarks Listed below are benchmarks for safe actions of individual personnel when operating in or near moving vehicle traffic. 1. Always maintain an acute awareness of the high risk of working in or near moving traffic. They are out to get you! 2. Never trust moving traffic. 3. Always look before you move! 4. Always keep an eye on the moving traffic! 5. Avoid turning your back to moving traffic. 6. Personnel arriving in crew cabs of fire apparatus should exit and enter the apparatus from the protected 'shoulder' side, away from moving traffic. 7. Officers, apparatus operators, crew members in apparatus with individual jump seat configurations must exit and enter their units with extreme caution remaining alert to moving traffic at all times. 8. Protective clothing and high visibility vests, and helmet must be donned upon exiting the emergency vehicle. 9. Always look before opening doors and stepping out of apparatus or emergency vehicle into any moving traffic areas. When walking around fire apparatus or emergency vehicle, be alert to your proximity to moving traffic. High-Volume, Limited Access Highway Operations High-volume limited access highways include multi-lane roadways within the FD response area. The Police Department and Department of Transportation have a desire to keep the traffic moving on these high-volume highways. When in the judgment of Command it becomes essential for the safety of operating personnel and the patients involved, any or all lanes, shoulders, and entry/exit ramps of

Page 207 these limited access highways can be completely shut down. This, however, should be for as short a period of time as practical. Unique Safe Parking procedures at high-volume multi-lane roadway incidents; 1. First-arriving apparatus shall establish an initial block of the lane(s) occupied by the damaged vehicle plus one additional traffic lane. 2. An additional unit shall be dispatched to all vehicle-related incidents on all limited-access, or high- volume highways with the district. 3. The primary assignment of this additional apparatus and crew shall be to; • Establish an upstream block occupying a minimum of one lane plus the paved shoulder of the highway or blockage of driving lanes of traffic upstream of the initial block provided by the first- due apparatus. • The position of this apparatus shall take into consideration all factors that limit sight distance of the approaching traffic including ambient lighting conditions, weather-related conditions, road conditions, design curves, bridges, hills and over- or underpasses. • Traffic cones and/or cones illuminated by strobes should be placed upstream of the apparatus by the truck crew at the direction of the officer. • Traffic cones on limited-access, high-volume roadways shall be placed farther apart, to allow adequate warning to drivers. Personnel shall place cones and strobes and retrieve cones while facing the traffic. • Assign a Flagger person to monitor the response of approaching motorists as they are directed to transition to a slower speed and taper into merged lanes of traffic. • Notify Command on the incident operating channel of any approaching traffic that is not responding to the speed changes, transition, tapering and merging directions. • Flagger shall activate a pre-determined audible warning to operating personnel of a non- compliant motorist approaching. • Driver operator of apparatus shall sound a series of long blasts on the apparatus air horn to audibly warn all operating personnel of the concern for the actions of an approaching motorist. 4. Police / Community Peace Officer Department vehicles will be used to provide additional blocking of additional traffic lanes as needed. 5. Staging of additional units off the highway may be required. Ambulances may be brought onto the highway scene one or two at a time. An adequate size multi-patient loading area must be established. 6. Command should establish a liaison with the Police Department / Community Peace Officer(s) as soon as possible to jointly coordinate a safe work zone and to determine how to most efficiently resolve the incident and establish normal traffic flows.

Page 208 7. The termination of the incident must be managed with the same aggressiveness as initial actions. Crews, apparatus, and equipment must be removed from the highway promptly, to reduce exposure to moving traffic and minimize traffic congestion.

Refer to SOP# 0122 – MVC Blocking for further information

Fire Chief ______

Page 209 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0067 Welfare Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE To provide aid and assistance beyond the spectrum of normal Fire Department services to those citizens who may have been adversely affected by fire or other incidents. POLICY At all incidents causing serious loss to an inhabited dwelling where the occupants are temporarily without shelter, food, clothing, etc., and unable to assist themselves, the Incident Commander shall make contact with organizations such as, i.e. Canadian Red Cross, the Municipal Office or the Salvation Army, or the appropriate designated representatives through dispatch. RESPONSIBILITY All Fire Department officers are responsible for evaluating situations of human need, which they or their subordinates may encounter and for ensuring that contact is made with the appropriate agency through dispatch. PROCEDURE Whenever the need to contact an organization such as, i.e. Canadian Red Cross, the Municipal Office or Salvation Army presents itself, the Incident Commander shall notify the Dispatch who shall contact the appropriate organization. Dispatch shall then advise the Incident Commander of the services they contacted agency (s) can provide.

Fire Chief ______

Page 210 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0070 Use of Civilians Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

To provide fire officers and Incident Commanders with an understanding of their authority and responsibilities relative to the rare utilization of civilians during emergency operations.

POLICY A. It shall be the policy of this department to avoid the use of civilians in fire department operations. B. Whenever, under unusual circumstances, civilians must be utilized or are allowed to participate in fire department operations, the Incident Commander of such operations shall utilize the civilians in such capacities, which will not place them in obviously dangerous areas or hazardous environments. The Incident Commander shall also insure control over their actions and well-being.

SCOPE

As used in this policy, the term "civilian" refers to any person who is not a member of a legally organized fire or police department. Exception: Any person(s) who is a member of a legally organized volunteer fire department is excluded from the term "civilian". AUTHORITY

Members of a legally organized fire department have the authority to enlist the aid and assistance of civilians in performing their tasks at the scene of an emergency. A policy of selecting only capable adults will be the requirement of the fire officer or Incident Commander during the selection process.

Page 211

RESPONSIBILITY

A. Whenever fire department personnel enlist the aid, assistance, or help of civilians, the department automatically assumes liability for both the safety of such civilians and for their actions and the results of their actions. B. Whenever fire department personnel allow civilians to assist, aid, help, or participate in any way during fire department operations (whether by conscious acknowledgement or tacit consent), the department automatically assumes liability for both the safety of such civilians and for their actions and the results of their actions. C. Incident Commanders are responsible for overall control of an emergency scene and, as such, shall insure control over the non-use or use and safety of civilians (whether they have been enlisted or have volunteered) during fire department operations. D. All fire department members must keep the safety of the public foremost in their minds and must refrain from utilizing civilians or restrain and prohibit their participation whenever they are not needed or whenever conditions are too dangerous to allow their involvement.

Fire Chief ______

Page 212 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0075 Critical Incident Stress Management Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE: To help Fire Services personnel recognize the symptoms connected with a Critical Incident and to provide appropriate resources as necessary to help minimize the effects of such traumatic events.

SCOPE: To all Operational Staff.

POLICY: Personnel shall have access to Critical Incident Stress reference material and will utilize the following approved procedures for securing assistance in the event that they are exposed to such an incident.

Note: Critical Incident Stress is cumulative. Do not allow it to accumulate and become a threat to your health.

Note: The impact of stressful incidents is personal and varies from individual to individual.

PROCEDURE

ACTION INFORMATION . A list of current Critical Incident Stress Team members will be published yearly and posted on all Safety Boards.

. Personnel involved in a Critical Incident . Involvement in the Critical Incident Stress Stress Incident may initiate the Critical Program is strictly confidential. Incident Stress Program.

Page 213 . Involvement may commence in the following ways: - Individual contact with a CIS Team member. - Officer may request Critical Incident Stress Debriefing. - On-duty/on call Chief Officer may request Critical Incident Stress Debriefing.

. The following are levels of assistance available to all personnel: - Debriefing - Defusing - Professional Counselling

. Defusing . Conducted by a member or members of the Critical Incident Stress Team. . May be in or out of service. . May be a group or an individual.

. Debriefing . May be conducted by a member or members of Critical Incident Stress Team. . May be conducted by a member or members of outside Critical Incident Stress Teams. . Normally conducted out of service. . May be a group or an individual. . Description – see attached.

. Professional Counselling. . No cost to personnel

Page 214

Firefighters in their roles as First Responders to fire, medical, rescue and hazardous materials incidents and as dispatchers and investigators are exposed to traumatic events which subject them to stressors that are unique to emergency service personnel. Exposure to these events known as “critical incidents” may result in physical and/or psychological symptoms which the firefighter may not be able to manage without support. The support required in dealing with the stress related problems requires specialized training, skills and knowledge provided by mental health professionals and firefighters trained as peer debriefers.

A critical incident is defined as “any situation faced by emergency personnel that causes them to experience unusually strong emotional reactions that have the potential to interfere with their ability to function either at the scene or later”… all that is necessary is that the incident, regardless of the type, generates unusually strong feelings in the emergency worker.

International studies indicate that 86% of emergency service personnel have experienced some form of stress related symptoms following critical incidents. The Foothills Fire Department has initiated a program to effectively deal with critical incident stress by organizing Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) Teams.

1. PROBLEM STATEMENT

Firefighters may require support in dealing with physical and/or psychological symptoms that result from critical incidents. Even individuals who are able to resolve problems on their own can experience delays in resolution without intervention. The end result is a diminished quality in the firefighter’s personal life and professional abilities.

Critical incident stress impacts every firefighter differently. What may affect one individual may have no effect on another. However, few emergency service providers escape the effects of stress entirely. Research also indicates that the majority of the providers affected with stress symptoms are unable to resolve the issues on their own and continue to be affected.

The stress response may be incident specific and immediate (acute) or it may be delayed and resurface after a period of time as a result of unsuccessful attempts to deal with a particular

Page 215 incident. The response may also occur due to witnessing too many distressing events resulting in a cumulative effect.

Research has indicated approximately 1000 emergency service stressors. Generally, they can be divided into “environmental” and “clinical” stressors.

Environmental stressors would include the following:

- Extremes of weather conditions during incidents

- Environmental hazards

- Administrative problems

- Lack of recognition

- Limited ability for career advancement

- Limited resources (personnel, equipment, funding)

Clinical stressors include but are not limited to:

- Death or serious illness of a co-worker (particularly in the line of duty)

- Suicide or unexpected death of a co-worker

- Serious injury or death of a civilian – particularly if as a result of Fire Department Operations (i.e. MVA enroute to an alarm)

- Death or violence involving a child

- Any incident which attracts unusually high media coverage

- Any incident charged with profound emotion

Page 216

- Personal identification with the patient (victim) or circumstances

- Any incident where firefighters face a high risk of death, injury or infection (i.e. handling hazardous materials, dealing with Aids or Hepatitis patients)

- Any incident where the sights and sounds are so distressing as to produce a high level of immediate or delayed emotional reaction (i.e. mass casualties, handling body parts)

2. MISSION STATEMENT

The objective of this program is to provide the means for intervention through Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) to minimize the harmful effects of job stress, particularly in crisis or emergency situations. The CISD team is made up of specially trained peer debriefers and Mental Health Professionals with a working knowledge of or background in fire fighting operations. The priorities of the team are to maintain confidentiality and to respect the feelings of the personnel involved. It is not the function of the team to replace on-going professional counseling, but to provide immediate crisis intervention.

A second objective of the CISD team is to provide education regarding Critical Incident Stress to emergency service workers.

3. TYPES OF INTERVENTIONS

Several types of interventions may be conducted depending upon the circumstances of a particular incident. They may be conducted on an individual one-on-one basis or ideally in small groups. The following types of interventions, singularly or in combination, are most commonly utilized:

A) Pre-Incident Education

Pre-incident education regarding stress recognition and stress reduction strategies is an essential part of the CISD process. Educational programs for line and command staff include the preceding information on critical incident stress debriefings, how to contact

Page 217 a team, on-scene considerations, etc. Programs for spouses and significant others may also include stress recognition and management.

B) On-Scene Support Services

Three types of services may be provided:

1. One-on-one session with rescuers who show obvious signs of distress. 2. Assistance to victims of the incident. 3. Consultation to the Scene Commander or Command Officers.

C) Demobilizations

Utilized during or following a large scale incident as units are released from the scene to determine if all personnel are accounted for, make announcements, etc. A mental health professional may take 15 minutes to provide information on the signs and symptoms of stress reactions that may occur. Lasts a maximum of 30 minutes. Unit may be released from duty or return to their station in service. Incident Commander may require that all personnel go through a demobilization session before they are released from the scene.

D) Defusing

A mini-debriefing for a small working group (such as an engine company) conducted at their station shortly after the incident, usually within 3-4 hours generally lasts 35-45 minutes. Provides information about the incident and general information and advice on stress reactions. In some circumstances may involve a more in depth discussion of participant’s feelings and reactions. A defusing may eliminate the need for a formal debriefing.

E) Initial Discussion

An informal discussion of the event by individual crews following return to quarters. Initial discussion occurs spontaneously in many groups and is not structured. It may be

Page 218 facilitated by a team peer member who is present. The focus of the discussion should be the group’s reaction to the event rather than critique.

F) Formal Debriefing

Ideally conducted within 24-72 hours of the incident. Confidential non-evaluative discussion of the involvement, thoughts, and feelings resulting from the incident. Also provides discussion and education regarding possible stress-related symptoms.

G) Follow-up Services

Conducted in the weeks or months following the incident. May include an informal debriefing session, phone or personal follow-up. Concerned with delayed or prolonged stress syndrome. May also be used to evaluate debriefing services offered.

H) Individual Consults

One-to-one counseling for any concerns related to the incident. Requires a referral to a mental health professional. Providing individual counseling is not a function of the CISD Team. However, team clinicians may be utilized for referrals.

I) Specialty Debriefing

Providing debriefing interventions for groups not directly involved in emergency services or otherwise outside the realm of the CISD Team. May be requested if services are not available in the mental health community.

5. THE DEBRIEFING PROCESS

A) Firefighters, dispatchers, command officers and department staff are responsible for identifying and recognizing significant incidents that may require debriefing. When an occurrence is identified as a “critical incident”, a request for debriefing should be made as soon as possible.

Page 219 B) The CISD Team is activated by a Team Co-ordinator after he has obtained the appropriate incident information. All formal debriefings are scheduled by the designated Team Co- ordinator to guarantee the quality of the debriefing and to ensure that all necessary procedures are followed. A team Co-ordinator also schedules requests for educational and in-service presentations.

C) A Team Co-ordinator contacts the member requesting the debriefing to:

1. Assess the need for on-scene support, defusing, debriefing or a referral.

2. Determine the nature of the incident.

3. Arrange a time and location if a formal debriefing is indicated. Debriefings are optimally conducted between 24-72 hours post incident and generally not later than one week post incident. Defusings may take place within the first 24 hours following an incident. Debriefings are not held during this time in order to allow a normalizing period.

D) DEBRIEFING CONSIDERATIONS INCLUDE:

Location: The location selected for the debriefing should represent a neutral environment and be free from distractions, interruptions, radios, phone calls and pagers.

Attendance: All emergency personnel involved in the incident should be invited to the debriefing and encouraged to attend. This includes but is not limited to fire, dispatch, law enforcement, ambulance and hospital emergency department personnel. Debriefings are mandatory for FFD personnel following line of duty death, serious injury to fire department personnel or in any case so deemed necessary by the Team Co-ordinator.

Time: The time should be selected as to be most convenient for as many responders as possible. Management or command officers should be encouraged to relieve personnel from duty during debriefings.

Page 220

E) The Team Co-ordinator selects a debriefing team from available members. To assure the quality of the process, the team must consist of at least one mental health professional as well as two to three peers. The mental health professional is designated as team leader. Team members who have responded to the incident should not be debriefers.

F) Team members shall co-ordinate a time and location to meet before the debriefing to discuss the incident, any available resources and each member’s role and responsibilities. It may be advisable to visit the incident scene.

One team member will be responsible for producing the team list and appropriate hand- out materials to the pre-debriefing meeting.

G) GUIDELINES FOR DEBRIEFINGS:

1. Strict confidentiality must be maintained. All information regarding agencies, situation debriefed and issues discussed shall not be divulged before or after a debriefing except with team members or as part of the team continuing education process.

2. No mechanical recordings or written notes will be made during a debriefing. It is up to the team to enforce this rule during the debriefing.

3. No media personnel (TV, Radio, Newspapers, etc) will be allowed to attend a debriefing. It is possible that participants in the debriefing may speak to the media either before or after the debriefing, however it is important for team members to explain that individuals speak only for themselves and NOT for anyone else in the debriefing. Debriefers may speak to the media, but only to educate about the process of CISD and to discuss the effects of stress. All other inquiries should be referred to a Team Co-ordinator or designated individual.

4. Debriefings are not a critique of the incident. The team has no evaluation function of tactical procedures. The debriefing process provides a format in

Page 221 which personnel can discuss their feelings and reactions and thus reduce the stress resulting from exposure to critical incidents. The goal of the CISD is to encourage ventilation of emotions and a rebalancing of the individual and the group members regarding normal stress reactions.

5. General format for formal CISD:

a. Introductory Phase – introduction of the team leader, description of debriefing process, establish ground rules.

b. Fact Phase – establish scene, self introduction of participants, and peer debriefers, description of what the participants heard, saw, smelled and did during the incident.

c. Thought Phase – at what point did the participants realize this was an unusual situation?

d. Reaction Phase – sharing of feelings at the scene, now and in past situations if applicable. Include all participants.

e. Symptom Phase – perceived unusual experiences at the time of and/or since the incident. Expression of participant’s stress response syndromes.

Questions: “What symptoms let you know that this was different from other situations?”

“What was your most intense reaction at the scene?”

“What were your reactions later?”

“What’s not going away?”

f. Teaching Phase – team discusses stress response syndrome and normal signs, symptoms and emotional reactions.

Page 222

g. Re-entry Phase – wrap up loose ends, answer additional questions, provide final reassurances, and establish a plan of action.

Questions: “What was your moment of strength?”

“What was positive about your response?”

“What will be valuable in the future?”

6. Referrals are made at the discretion of the debriefing team clinician.

7. Team written reports of debriefings may be required by team procedures. Written reports should contain general information only and not a detailed account of the debriefing. Names and factual information regarding the event are not appropriate.

8. All debriefings require a post debriefing meeting of the team to discuss their reactions to the process and the incident. Team members must be aware of the potential need to “debrief the debriefers”.

9. Following the death of an emergency services worker in the line of duty, two debriefings are indicated. The first should occur on the day of the death if possible. The second should occur the day after the funeral. Postponing the second debriefing for a week is probably too long.

6. THE CISD TEAM

Team Co-ordinator: A member of the Foothills Fire Department designated to co-ordinate the CISD program.

Peer debriefers: A member of the County of Foothills Fire Department of any rank trained in de-fusing and debriefing. The Peer Debriefer must be approved by the Facilitator and the Team Co-ordinator prior to taking any active role in the CISD process.

Page 223 7. EDUCATION AND TRAINING

A) CISD Training: All team members and peer debriefers will be required to attend both initial training and continuing education.

Initial Education: Peer debriefers shall receive:

i) 24 hours Peer Counsellor Training ii) 16 hours Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Training iii) 40 hours Clinical Training under the guidance of a licensed clinician.

The facilitator members will be required to participate in a training program sufficient to sensitize them to firefighters needs. (i.e. ride along program).

B) While the training of peer debriefers will be an on-going process, it should be emphasized that they are NOT to be thought of as “psychologists”. However, each peer debriefer will be trained to recognize certain signs and symptoms associated with stress and where to refer firefighters for the appropriate assistance when required.

Fire Chief ______

Page 224 County of Foothills: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0078 Civilian Accidents/Injuries on FFD Property Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

To provide Fire Department members with guidelines concerning citizen accidents and injuries which occur on the Foothills county property. Refer to Foothills county policy / procedure on incident / accidents.

POLICY

A. Private citizens who are injured in accidents, which occur on Foothills County property shall receive immediate medical attention. B. A Chief Officer shall be promptly notified of any citizen accidents occurring on Fire Department property. C. No Fire Department employee shall sign or make any statement admitting Foothills County liability.

SCOPE Includes all citizen injuries occurring on Foothills County property or involved in accidents with Foothills county employees or on property under the control of Foothills County employees.

RESPONSIBILITY A. All Fire Department members who observe or are involved with citizen injuries falling within the scope of this policy shall take initiative action and act within the guidelines of this policy.

PROCEDURE A. Administer emergency medical care as is necessary and available. B. Call for medical assistance as needed.

Page 225 C. Make proper notifications in accordance with policy. D. Do not sign or make any statement, which admits Foothills County liability.

Fire Chief ______

Page 226 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0081 Training Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

A well trained department is a primary concern, and an effective way to prevent injuries, deaths, and un-necessary equipment and property damage. The department fully supports firefighter training, both in-house and from outside sources. Each member is encouraged to fully partake in any training opportunities that are available. This guideline sets minimum training participation levels for all members of the department.

LEVEL OF PERFORMANCE Each member must participate in certain essential task training at least once every year. These essential tasks are related to NFPA 1001, 1002, 1051 and 1072 (formerly 472) and may be modified from time to time.

In addition each member must receive regular training on the following subjects. Bloodborne Pathogens CPR First Aid

Failure to complete the required trainings within the specified time-frame may result in suspension or dismissal from the department.

Uniforms will be worn to all training events inside or outside the department.

Fire Chief ______

Page 227 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0082 Photography Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE This policy and procedure pertaining to the possession, use and dissemination of digital, film and video recordings and photographs of emergency scenes where victims may or may not be depicted, as taken by firefighters.

Scope This procedure applies to all officers and members of the Foothills Fire Department and is applicable to alarms and emergencies only.

Policy It will be the policy of the Foothills Fire Department to protect the patients and victims of any alarm or emergencies by upholding their right to privacy, as well as protect the fire department from litigation arising from the misuse of photographic media by fire company members.

Procedure

A. The only cameras to be used on an emergency scene will be Fire Department owned unless authorized by Chief Staff or Fire Chief. Cameras will only be used for gathering information for reports ie. The license plate, insurance, D/L and registration.

B. There will be no photography or videotape of any patients or victims, unless absolutely necessary or as described in above A. All photos will be digitally obscured to protect the identity of the victims.

C. It will be the responsibility of the Chief or the I.C. of the Foothills Fire Department or his or her designee to down load the digital images.

Page 228 D. These photos are the property of the Foothills Fire Department, and may be used for training, firefighter safety and to improve patient care. Photos taken by FFD staff could also be used in evidence in court or to support any investigation.

E. Photos released to media outlets will not depict victims at any time. Releasing photos to the media can only be done by Chief Staff

F. Photos or videos of alarms or emergencies taken by firefighters will not be released, in whole or part to anyone, including posting on the internet, without the expressed written permission of Chief Staff from the Foothills Fire Department.

Fire Chief ______

Page 229 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0083 Fuel Card System Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Fuel Card System

All Foothills apparatus with fuel cards

Fuel Policy a) Fuel is for fire department vehicles only b) No personal fuel use by fire department members for any reason c) Fuel receipts – enter date and vehicle ID and who filled. d) Fuel storage – • All flammable and combustible storage will be limited to a maximum size of 5 gallons

• No flammable or combustible liquids will be placed or stored inside a passenger compartment of any vehicle / apparatus Fire Chief ______

Page 230 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0084 Training Officer(s) Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Prepared Date: 12/18/12

Approved Date:

PURPOSE

This guideline is to provide a job description for the Training Officer of the Foothills Fire Department. The current system requires all Officers to be considered Training Officers of their Station.

Scope – This guideline applies to all persons designated as training officers.

1. The Training Officers are responsible to:

a) Have working knowledge of department SOPs and requirements relating to training. b) Have the knowledge, experience and ability to coordinate other instructors, to develop lesson plans and supporting aids and to supervise support staff. c) Make recommendations to the Fire Chief on firefighting personnel qualifications as defined in the SOPs. d) Develop and provide to firefighting personnel an annual drill schedule including tentative topics. e) Coordinate and supervise fire department training. g) Maintain records of driver training and qualifications to drive fire apparatus. f) Make recommendations to the Fire Chief on matters related to training. g) Make a written report in January on matters relating to training.

2. The Training Officers are responsible to oversee:

a) Coordination of training with the requirements of Foothills Fire Department.

Page 231 b) Maintenance of hazardous materials awareness and operations and bloodborne pathogens qualifications by conducting annual refreshers and AED/CPR qualifications by conducting biennial refreshers. c) Maintenance of records on firefighting personnel regarding drill attendance, courses completed, physical limitations and certificates demonstrating completion of outside courses. d) Developing a training program to provide basic and advanced skills necessary for firefighting and rescue operations. e) Providing feedback to instructors on lesson plans and instruction methods.

Fire Chief ______

Page 232 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0087 Fire Inspector – Intinerant Officer Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Job Title: Fire Inspector – Intinerant Officer Department: Community Services, Foothills Fire Department Reports to: Deputy Fire Chief Job Location: Administration Building

General Accountability

This is an Itinerant position within the Foothills Fire Department. Job duties and responsibilities will include 90% Fire Inspector and 10% operations covering vacant shifts. This position will regularly work scheduled hours Monday through Friday, with the understanding of an altered shift schedule as demand requires.

The Fire Inspector meets the day to day challenges of providing fire inspection services, building plan approvals, fire code compliance, complaint inspections/fire investigations and will be responsible for the safe and effective leadership and co-ordination, direction and delivery of fire inspections within Foothills County.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities Fire Inspector – Itinerant Officer

• Conduct inspections of buildings, structures and places to identify and locate fire hazards and ensuring compliance with Safety Codes Act, the Alberta Fire Code, Alberta Building Code, Quality Management Program Compliance and Foothills county policy. • You will inspect and test fire protection equipment and systems. • Investigate causes of fires, collecting and preparing evidence and reports, testify and provide evidence in court. • Serves court appearances summonses and/or condemnation notices on parties responsible for violations of fire codes, laws and ordinances. • Performs subdivision development and building re-designation plan reviews and provide written comments. • Reads and interprets building plans, blueprints, installation guides, construction plans and specific as well as issue Notice of Violation, Orders or Information notices. • Prepares reports and maintains records detailing information about property, infrastructure observed and action to be taken.

Page 233 • Participate in programs such as operational fire-preplanning and emergency response plan to minimize the loss of life and property. • Receives complaints to investigate, inspect and test fire protection equipment and systems. • Interview members of the public to resolve unsatisfactory situations and instructions on situations to rectify conditions. • Recommend changes to fire inspection and fire code enforcement procedures. • Performs timely annual fire prevention inspections on assigned buildings. • Inspect properties that store, handle and use hazardous materials to ensure compliance with laws, codes and regulations and issue hazardous materials permits to facilitate found in compliance. • Prepare and present seminars and/or explain fire code requirements and fore prevention information to architects, contractors, lawyers, engineers, developers, fire service personnel and rate payers. • Maintains proficiency in the operation of all necessary technology and equipment to fulfill the job requirements. • Maintains Provincial Certifications. • Performs other duties as assigned from time to time.

Itinerant officer

• Oversees continuity of operational and administrative duties where assigned and takes shift coverage within the Foothills Fire Department in the absence of staff due to vacation, illnesses or training. • Assist the Deputy Fire Chief with the development, planning of work methods that comply with Federal, Provincial and local laws and responds to community needs. • Performs a broad scope of Fire Department duties as assigned by the Deputy Fire Chief.

Minimum Qualifications

• Completion of grade 12 education with diploma or GED equivalence. • Post-secondary education in Fire Protection Technology, or an equivalent combination of directly relevant education and experience. • Demonstrate knowledge of the Alberta Fire Code, Alberta Building Code and related legislation and by-laws. • NFPA 1001 level I with level II preferred.

Communication Skills

• Must be proficient in the English language and possess above average communication skills. • Ability to use current technology for communication is also required.

Other Qualifications

• Must be able to deal with confidential material in a discreet manner.

Physical Demands

• Agility and strength to do prolonged and arduous work under adverse conditions. • Will be expected to climb, lift, carry and drag objects while using SCBA.

Page 234 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0088 Resignation, Termination or Demotion Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Scope The purpose of this SOP is to provide guidance in regards to resignation, termination or demotion.

General A. Resignation:

1. Notice of resignation shall be in writing and shall be delivered to a Chief Officer. The notice shall include the effective date of resignation and the reasons for leaving.

2. A resigning employee shall turn in all property issued by the department. A member may be assessed a replacement cost for any item that is not returned or is returned damaged due to gross negligence, willful conduct, multiple incidents of negligence, or intentional destruction.

B. Termination:

1. Termination of a member is immediate. The member will have the reason of termination explained in writing.

2. A terminated member will turn in all property issued by the department within 3 days. A member may be assessed a replacement cost for any item that is not returned or is returned damaged due to gross negligence, willful conduct, multiple incidents or negligence, or intentional destruction.

C. Demotion:

1. Voluntary: Voluntary demotion is a decision made entirely by the member. If they no longer wish to have the responsibility of the position it is within their right to not except it. Voluntary demotion

Page 235 request should be made in writing and delivered to a Chief Officer at least two weeks prior to the desired date of demotion.

2. Non-Voluntary: Non-Voluntary demotion is a decision made by the Fire Chief. Reasons for Non- Voluntary demotion are: Poor performance, Lack of participation, Willful deliberate disobedience to a just order from a superior officer or fails to attend the required minimum number of training classes, meetings or special events without just cause.

B. A demoted member is required to return any department issued items related to the former rank.

Fire Chief ______

Page 236 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0089 Complaints Against Members Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Scope This standard establishes guidelines for the receipt, investigation, and resolution of complaints received by the fire department concerning the professional or personal conduct, behavior, action, or inaction of one or more members and those complaints that concern the department as a whole. It was publicized to ensure that a thorough investigation be conducted for every complaint received by the department.

General A. Complaints that arise from the daily conduct of business fall into one of two major categories: • Complaints against the department as a whole; and • Complaints against one or more individual members.

B. Complaints generally allege a violation of a fire department rule, procedure, or general order. A complaint may also allege that there has been a violation of a federal, provincial, or local laws or ordinance.

C. The department will hear all complaints against its members that have been initiated by any person who is found to have standing for such a complaint. Persons other than those who are actually affected by the actions of a member shall have no standing for a complaint, with the exception of cases that involve juveniles. In such cases, the parent or legal guardian shall be required to file the written complaint.

Complaint Procedure Complaints must be made in writing and shall be signed and dated by the persons making the complaint.

All complaints should be filed with a Chief Officer which will then investigate the complaint.

Where there are mitigating circumstances, a complaint may be initiated by telephone. The complaining party should be asked to submit his complaint in written form as soon as possible.

When the act described in the complaint is a crime, the circumstances will be immediately explained to the Fire Chief. “Where there is an allegation of criminal behaviour by a member of Foothills Fire Department, the Fire

Page 237 Chief or designate shall refer the matter to the local police service of jurisdiction immediately. The Chief or desigante should also determine whether or not the member should be suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.

Resolution of the Complaint On conclusion of an investigation, the complaint shall be classified as one of the following: 1. Unfounded: The allegation has been proved false or there is a lack of factual evidence to support it. 2. Exonerated: The incidents cited did occur, but the actions were lawful or followed proper procedures. 3. Not sustained: There is insufficient evidence either to prove or disprove the allegations. 4. Sustained: The allegations are supported in whole or in part by sufficient evidence and the complaint will be upheld.

Resulting Action: 1. When an investigation results in a determination of unfounded, exonerated, or not sustained, the Chief Officer will notify the accused member that no further action will be taken against him/her. The member shall return to duty. 2. When an investigation results in a determination that an allegation is supported by sufficient evidence. The appropriate action will be taken in accordance with normal procedure for such an offence.

Format The supervisor who accepts the original complaint or conducts the initial investigation shall make his/her report as complete as possible prior to submitting it to the Fire Chief. All Investigators (Chief Officers) shall use the following format for conducting their investigations: 1. Record the facts surrounding the incident. What took place when and where, and who was involved? Be brief. 2. State the allegations in detail. What does the complaint allege and against whom? 3. Record the process used to investigate the complaint. What did you do as the investigator? What did you learn from talking to all the parties and witnesses? List them. 4. Record all findings and the conclusion reached. What did your investigation reveal based on the facts extracted from the evidence? 5. Include the written recommendation to the Fire Chief.

Exceptions A. A complaint should be referred to the Fire Chief or other senior staff member in those cases where the complainant prefers to speak only to those entities. B. Internal investigations may also be conducted concerning a member’s conduct whenever the Fire Chief has reason to believe doing so is warranted. C. The Fire Chief shall have absolute and final authority in determining whether a disciplinary action should be taken.

Fire Chief ______

Page 238

Page 239 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0091 Internet Posting and Social Networking Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Scope To guide members regarding the use of the internet, the world-wide web, cell phone use and social networking as a medium of communication impacting this Department. Refer to: Foothills County Policy Manual and Foothills Fire Department Code of Conduct and Expectations.

Specifics: 1. The internet, blogs, Twitter, FaceBook, MySpace, the worldwide web, social networking sites, texting, photographing and any other medium of electronic communications shall not be used in a manner which is detrimental to the mission, function and reputation of the Foothills Fire Department.

2. Any matter which brings individual members or the Fire Department into disrepute has the corresponding effect of reducing both the trust and confidence of the public we serve and impedes our ability to work with and serve the public.

3. Members do have the right to use personal/social networking pages or sites, but as members of the Fire Department they are public servants who are held to a higher standard than the general public with regard to standards of conduct and ethics.

4. Members shall maintain a level of professionalism in both on-duty and off-duty conduct that fulfills the mission of the Fire Department and shall not violate this policy through the publication through any medium which is potentially adverse to the operation, morale or efficiency of the Fire Department.

General Policies 1. Members are not to post, broadcast, text, tweet, post photographs or video files, or any other items or materials which would be detrimental to the reputation of themselves or the Fire Department.

2. Members who utilize social networking sites, blogs, Twitter, texting, Facebook or other mediums of

Page 240 electronic communication in their off-duty time shall maintain an appropriate level of professionalism and appropriate conduct so as not to broadcast information which is detrimental to the reputation of themselves or the Department.

3. Members who post, broadcast, text, tweet, post photographs or video files, or any other items or materials to the public or media regarding the Foothills Fire Department shall have prior approval by Chief Staff.

Fire Chief ______

Page 241 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0094 Workplace Violence Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE:

It is the policy of Foothills County that all employees and anyone with whom they interact in their work have the right to be free from violence. Therefore, any and all acts of violence are strictly prohibited. For the purposes of this policy, violence is defined as:

The use of physical force with intent to cause bodily harm (except when it is necessary to use reasonable force to defend oneself or others against bodily harm). Acts or threats in any form or manner which are intended to intimidate or cause fear of bodily harm.

This policy applies to all employees and is intended to protect any person at or in any way connected with the workplace. Any violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment and/or criminal prosecution.

If you have been subjected to violence yourself or have observed violence or potentially violent situations, you should proceed as follows: Notify your immediate supervisor or the Officer. This should be done as soon after the incident as possible.

It is the responsibility of all employees not only to refrain from violent behavior themselves, but also to report workplace violence perpetuated by other employees and to cooperate fully in any Fire Department investigation of workplace violence.

Allegations of violence brought to the attention of Foothills County will be investigated in a timely and thorough manner. The investigation and resolution of the allegations will be conducted in strictest confidence, except when law requires disclosure or when there are significant safety concerns. Retaliation or reprisal toward the person or persons reporting the incident is strictly prohibited. Any

Page 242 violation of this policy or procedure will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment and/or criminal prosecution. Every employee has the right to seek confidential assistance through the Employee Assistance Program to deal with any issues of violence wherever they happen, including outside the workplace.

Please call the Employee Assistance number: ______on any issue that arises.

Workplace violence is violence or the threat of violence against workers. It can occur at or outside the workplace and can range from threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults and homicide, one of the leading causes of job-related deaths. However it manifests itself, workplace violence is a growing concern for employers and employees nationwide.

Who might perpetrate workplace violence? • Employees acting against other employees or the organization • Non-employees targeting particular employees for personal reasons (i.e. domestic violence that spills into the workplace) • Non-employees who have personal grudges against employees or the organization (clients, former employees) • Disturbed outsiders with no apparent connection to the organization • Criminals pursuing their illegal objectives • Terrorists pursuing their political objectives.

How can we manage workplace violence? • Assess particular risks • Establish a policy and educate staff • Incorporate prevention elements into routine activities such as pre-employee screening, employee discipline systems, employee assistance programs, anti discrimination and anti-harassment programs. • Security systems • Emergency and incident planning

Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Officers - Enforce violence in the workplace policy

Page 243 Captains / Sr. Firefighters – Enforce disciplinary action, ensure employee safety, encouraging employees to report incidents, respond to reports of threatening or violent behavior, and manage conflict.

Fire Fighters – Report incidents of violence, conduct themselves appropriately, follow company rules and policies. If a fight is to break out

• Assess the situation before you jump in… do they have any weapons in their hands? What physical size are they? What physical shape are they in? Will you be able to handle them? Remember you can easily become the target.

• Use a distraction. Distractions such as a loud. “Hey what’s going on here?” can help break the tension and refocus the participant’s attention.

• Assess the situation and develop a plan of action. What’s happening and what do you need in order to adequately deal with the situation? If the two participants have already come to physical blows, it is best to call the R.C.M.P. If there has been only name-calling or mild contact, you may be able to intervene to keep it from escalating.

• Get help. Trying to intervene alone is difficult and can put you at risk. Ask an employee to help you. If you are the only employee, remain as calm as possible and call for assistance. Most of the time just picking up the phone will remedy the situation.

• Remove the audience. Sometimes the only reason the fight continues is because the participants are reluctant to back down in front of others. As long as the audience is there, the fight will continue. Get the onlookers out of there.

• Separate the participants and make sure they cannot maintain eye contact with each other. Sometimes the fight will continue through glaring and staring. Although each will want you to take sides, now is NOT the time to assign blame. After you have conducted your investigation, you can determine a course of action, but for right now, it is premature.

• Use the buddy system. Whenever there is even the remote possibility of danger, it helps to have another person in the room with you, or in the next room where they can overhear and summon help if needed.

Page 244 • Position yourself for safety. Make sure that you are closest to the door and always have an escape route. Don’t let your desk or table trap you, and never turn your back on someone who is agitated or angry. Make sure that you are farther than arm’s length away from the individual.

• Trust your instincts. Don’t second-guess your feelings. Listen to internal warning signs. If something seems off, then it probably is.

Many potentially violent situations develop over time, and are more likely to end well if they end early.

Fire Chief ______

Page 245 County of Foothills: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0102 Flag Etiquette Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

This procedure applies to all Fire Department entities and fire department personnel within.

Procedure

General rules for respectful display and care of flags.

General Flag Procedures:

Display

1. Display flags twenty-four (24) hours a day.

2. No other flag should be displayed higher than the Canadian Flag

3. When two (2) or more flags are displayed on poles of similar height, the flag of Canada should be on its own, on the center pole.

4. When hoisting and lowering multiple flags, the Flag of Canada shall be hoisted first and lowered last.

Respect for Flags

1. No disrespect shall be shown to the Flag of Canada. It shall not be dipped to any person or thing. Flags of Provinces and other organizations shall be dipped in respect to the Flag of Canada.

2. A flag shall never be displayed down, except in time of extreme emergency.

Page 246 3. A flag should not touch anything beneath it such as ground or water.

Disposal

1. When a flag is in such condition as it is no longer appropriate for display, it shall be taken down, folded, and given to a member of the Foothills Fire Department for appropriate disposal.

Flag Procedures in a Time of Mourning

FYI, half staff is actually ¼ way down from top, not half way down.

Flag at Half-Staff

1. When a flag is lowered to half-staff, it should be hoisted all the way for a brief moment and then lowered to half-staff.

2. Also, when only one flag pole is present and it is deemed appropriate to fly the Canadian flag at half-staff, no other flags should be flown on the same flag pole.

Ordering of the Flags to Half-Staff

1. The Fire Chief or his designee will order the lowering of flags to half-staff as outlined in this policy when the death of a member of the fire service or public safety community occurs.

Line of Duty Death

Line of Duty - Affected Entity

In the event of a Line of Duty Death that involves a member of your Fire Department:

1. The flags at the fire stations will be lowered to half-staff and will remain from the announcement of the death until the day following the funeral.

Page 247 Line of Duty - All Other Fire Departments

In the event of a Line of Duty Death that involves a member of another fire department, within Foothills county:

1. The flags at the fire stations may be lowered to half-staff and if lowered will remain from the announcement of the death until the day following the funeral.

Line of Duty – Retired

1. In the event of a Line of Duty Death of a retired member of any Fire Department, within Foothills County only, the flags at the fire station may be lowered to half-staff and if lowered, will remain from the announcement of the death until the day following the funeral.

Line of Duty – Non Fire Service Personnel

1. In the event of a Line of Duty Death of non-fire service personnel, which includes but is not limited to other public safety personnel, i.e., police / peace officers, ambulance personnel, etc., within Foothills County, the flags at the fire stations may be lowered to half-staff and if lowered, will remain from the announcement of the death until the day following the funeral.

Non-Line of Duty

Non-Line of Duty – Active Member, Your Department

1. In the case of a NON-Line of Duty Death that involves an active member of any fire department within Foothills county the flags at all fire stations will be lowered to half-staff, and will remain from the announcement of the death until the day following the funeral.

5. Definitions:

A. The death of any member of the Fire Department while on duty, or while undergoing

Page 248 medical treatment for injuries resulting from such duty, is considered a Line of Duty Death. For the purpose of the flag etiquette procedure, this also includes the death of a fire department member while engaged in firefighting or EMS activities while off duty.

B. To avoid being selective or discriminatory concerning which incidents to choose from, fire service or public safety personnel deaths outside Foothills County will not be acknowledged by the lowering of flags.

C. If a special circumstance does arise, the Fire Chief will advise an appropriate and consistent procedure for that incident. This is not intended to preclude the Foothills Fire departments from expressing condolences through other methods.

Fire Chief ______

Page 249 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0111 Outside Schools / Online Education Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

OBJECTIVES:

• To provide training for personnel with outside schools, seminars, online courses and college classes within the Department’s available resources. • To provide a broader knowledge base for Department personnel. • To provide a standard method of signing up for schools, seminars, online courses and college classes. • To provide consistent standards of selection to schools, seminars, online courses and college classes.

PROCEDURES:

1. Select the course you are interested in attending. Early applications are necessary to insure registration for the course.

2. Request to take the course. Attach registration form and course outline to the Request.

3. You will receive a written reply either approving or denying your application.

4. If approval is granted to attend an overnight course, you shall: a) Contact the Captain, to ensure that course is approved and logged on the master calendar. And forward to a Chief Officer

Page 250 b) Any time an employee leaves on Foothills County business, whether or not a cost is involved, a request must be completed.

c) Arrange for the scheduling of a Foothills Fire Department vehicle with a Chief Officer, when possible.

5. If approval is granted to attend a course out of province, all steps in item #5 must be followed. Additionally, the Chief Officer must approve any out-of-province travel.

6. If approval is granted to attend a course within Foothills County, follow steps: 4.A, 4.C if applicable.

7. If approval is granted to attend a course involving one or more days, all steps in item #4 must be followed.

8. If requesting to attend a college class or any long term technical course, submit a letter requesting approval to the Chief Officer. This letter shall explain the benefit to the Department, the goal to be accomplished (i.e. AA degree, BA, BS, etc.), and the anticipated length of time needed to complete the program.

9. If approval is granted to attend a college class or any long term technical course, follow step 5.A.

10. Once college class or technical course is completed, you must furnish the Chief Officer with a copy of your grade and your receipt. The Chief Officer will turn in your claim for reimbursement.

11. Determining Factors—Who Gets to Go?

a) Budget:

1) Is there money available in that person’s divisional budget?

2) If travel is involved, are there travel funds available? b) Number of classes attended:

1) Not all the money can, nor should, be expended on one individual. c) Sharing the Information:

1) Each student may be required, upon their return, to present a class to the rest of the department, if the subject matter lends itself to a formal presentation. d) Are you willing to invest your time in this training?

Page 251

The person requesting to attend a school, seminar, online course or college class shall be responsible for completing any necessary paperwork.

Fire Chief ______

Page 252 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0112 Borrowing FFD Property Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE:

To ensure that all Foothills Fire Department property is readily available for use when needed for the day to day operations of the Foothills Fire Department.

POLICY:

Foothills Fire Department property shall not be taken from the Fire Station for personal use without the permission of Chief Staff or the Captain on duty.

As a general rule, F.F.D. property is not to be borrowed for personal use. Equipment that is on front-line units shall never be borrowed for personal use. Other equipment, such as the old ladders, may be borrowed with permission.

Equipment may be loaned out for a period not to exceed (48) hours. Chief Staff, or the Captain on duty may grant an extension of this time period.

If permission is granted, the name of the firefighter and the equipment borrowed shall be recorded in the Station Log Book.

RESPONSIBILITY: Anyone caught with Foothills Fire Department property in his or her personal possession off duty and off fire department property, without permission from Chief Staff or the Captain on Duty may result in disciplinary action.

Fire Chief ______

Page 253 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0114 Investigation Coordinator Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose

The Investigation Coordinator is responsible to the Chief Officer for the investigation of fires for determination of probable cause, and for the fire prevention education and training programs of the Fire Department.

A. This person shall cause a careful and thorough investigation to be made to determine the probable cause of every fire which results in loss of life, injuries to persons, excessive damage to property, or where an accidental or providential cause is not readily discernible.

B. This person shall work cooperatively with other agencies to accomplish the identification, apprehension and prosecution of persons responsible for acts of incendiarism or arson.

C. This person shall maintain complete and accurate records of all investigations conducted. A report of his findings shall be forwarded to the Chief Officer as quickly as possible.

D. This person shall develop, coordinate and document the execution of the fire prevention education and awareness program of the Fire Department.

E. This person shall develop, coordinate and document the execution of the training program for the department.

Fire Chief ______

Page 254 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0115 Release of Fire Department Public Records Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose

The Foothills Fire Department comes within the scope of public record disclosure statutes as they pertain to written or recorded official records. These records include written policies, procedures, manuals, factual staff reports, incident reports, tape recordings of telephone and radio traffic, and correspondence relating to regulatory or enforcement responsibilities where the department determines the rights of public or private parties.

The Foothills Fire Department must represent itself whenever disclosure involves policy, procedure, manuals and internal organizational matters.

A request for disclosure of public information most frequently involves tape recordings; however, requests may be for any official records covered by statute.

Care must be taken to ensure that:

A. The information requested is covered by statute and not exempt.

B. The citizen’s request for confidentiality will not be violated.

ALL REQUESTS FOR PUBLIC INFORMATION MUST BE APPROVED BY THE FIRE CHIEF OR HIS DESIGNEE.

1. A request made by any individual or another agency for Foothills Fire Department information must be made in writing to the Foothills Fire Department, identifying specifically each item of information being requested. The request must be approved and signed by the Fire Chief or his designee prior to the information being provided.

2. Court orders, subpoenas or other legal matters shall be referred directly to the Fire Chief or Deputy Chief.

Page 255 3. Should it become necessary for the Fire Chief or Deputy Chief to refuse inspection or disclosure of any public record, a statement of the specific exemption which authorizes the withholding shall be issued. This statement shall include a brief statement explaining the application of the exemption to the record withheld. Within five (5) business days of receiving a public record request, the Foothills Fire Department shall:

4. Provide the record; computer generated only.

5. Acknowledge in writing that the request has been received and provide a reasonable estimate of the time required to respond to the request; or,

6. Deny the public record request in writing.

If the public record request is unclear, the Foothills Fire Department shall within five (5) business days inquire, in writing, what information is being sought. If the requester fails to clarify the request, the Foothills Fire Department need make no further response.

If a public record request is made at a time when a record exists but is scheduled for destruction in the near future, the Foothills Fire Department must retain the record until the request is resolved.

It shall be the responsibility of Foothills Fire Department members to direct all requests for public records to the Fire Chief or Deputy Chief. It shall be the responsibility of the Foothills Fire Department member handling a request to do so within five (5) calendar days.

Any Foothills Fire Department member handling a request for a public record shall refer the Request for Information to the Fire Chief or Deputy Chief. Once a receipt is produced and the request fulfilled, a copy of the completed request shall be kept on file at the Fire Station.

Please refer to Policy Handbook (policy 500-001, Information Security) for more information.

Fire Chief ______

Page 256 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0120 Funeral Policy Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose

To assure that all past or present department personnel and others are properly recognized upon passing.

Level of Performance

This guideline shall be followed to properly and consistently recognize the service and membership of departed members.

As with any guideline, primary responsibility rests with each individual. Department supervisors are responsible for implementing this policy as appropriate. The wishes of the family take precedence over this policy and all assistance should be rendered to comply with the wishes of the remaining family members.

For the purpose of this guideline, department members (and others) and the circumstances of their passing will be identified as follows:

Line of Duty Death

A death occurring during fire department operations, training or functions or a death that is directly related and/or caused by the above listed actions.

Active Duty Death

A death by natural or other causes not related to fire department activities while the member was an active member of the department. An active member is defined as one who regularly participates in incident response, training, work details and/or social functions.

Retired Member Death

Page 257 The death of a member who has previously served the department for at least 5 cumulative years and was honorably retired from the department.

Friend of the Department Death

The death of an elected official, city employee or significant supporter.

All department participation levels and functions in the following guideline are predicated on the above definitions.

Event Appropriate Uniform

When a department death is announced, either in person, via electronic media such as e-mail or text or by written invitation, the appropriate funeral service participation and uniform choice will also be announced. The level of dress is determined by the Chief Officers; however the following is a general guideline concerning various expected events.

• Funeral Services – Class A uniform

• Funeral Visitations – Station uniform

Department Participation

Line of Duty Death

All members should make every effort to attend the visitation, funeral service and committal ceremonies.

The department will make available any and all apparatus as requested by the family to escort the procession and transport the casket.

Alternate arrangements should be made for community fire coverage during the services so that all members may attend.

The department will offer full participation in the services including but not limited to full department walk- through at the visitation, posting of an honor guard, fire department bell ceremony and final page during the committal ceremony.

Page 258 The department will offer full and continuing support to the family throughout the planning process, ceremony and after. This will be accomplished by assignment of a department officer to serve as family liaison officer for as long as the officer’s services are needed.

Active Duty Death

All members should make every effort to attend the visitation, funeral service and committal ceremonies.

The department will make available any and all apparatus as requested by the family to escort the procession and transport the casket.

Alternate arrangements should be made for community fire coverage during the services so that all members may attend. The department will offer full participation in the services including but not limited to full department walk-through at the visitation, posting of an honor guard, fire department bell ceremony and final page during the committal ceremony.

Retired Member Death

The department will offer full participation in the services including but not limited to full department walk- through at the visitation and fire department bell ceremony when requested.

Fire Chief ______

Page 259 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0128 Active Shooter Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 8/6/2015 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

This procedure establishes guidelines for Foothills Fire Department personnel who may respond to an Active Shooter Incident (ASI). The goal is to provide effective rescue procedures, common communication, and coordination with local law enforcement, as well as provide for firefighter safety while working at an Active Shooter Incident.

DEFINITIONS

Active Shooter Incident (ASI) – An armed person (shooter) who has used deadly physical force on other persons and continues to do so while having unrestricted access to additional victims.

Active Shooter Cold Zone – The location of the support functions of the ASI incident including the command post, staging, and medical group if an MCI is declared.

Active Shooter Warm Zone – The location already cleared and deemed secure by law enforcement contact teams. Fire personnel may work in this area if force protection is in place.

Active Shooter Hot Zone – The location that law enforcement contact teams are working to isolate or neutralize the ASI threat. Firefighters will not work in this zone.

Casualty Collection Point (CCP) –A location where casualties are kept and receive basic medical care until they can safely be moved to a medical treatment area. This location should be inside the cold zone whenever possible, but some situations may require it to be in the warm zone. Firefighters will work as rescue groups (RGs) with law enforcement protection in this area.

Contact Team (CT) – A law enforcement team assigned to confine or eliminate the shooter(s) that normally operate in the hot zone.

Force Protection Group (FPG) – Law enforcement officers (two or more) assigned to protect fire (RG) personnel.

Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) – An individual (or improved) first kit that carries medical

equipment to immediately address the preventablePage 260 causes of death.

Incident Action Plan (IAP) – A document put together as the event unfolds. This document will contain objectives, strategies, and tactical priorities, as well as safety concerns.

Incident Command Post (ICP) –A location within the cold zone where command and control objectives are established.

Law Enforcement (LE) - Law enforcement personnel and equipment.

Rescue Group (RG) - A team consisting of at least two Fire Department rescuers and gear with at least two Law Enforcement officers and weapons. The LE officers are to provide protection to the Fire Department rescuers. The goal of the RG is to rapidly move ASI victims from CCP to the TA for medical treatment.

Treatment Area (TA) – An area designated in the cold zone where patients from the CCP are moved and receive medical treatment. Normally MCI operations will be conducted in the treatment area.

PROCEDURE

The first arriving Fire Officer will enter into a Unified Command with local Law Enforcement, determine what additional resources are needed, and assist with the development of the Incident Action Plan.

When practical, both a Law and Fire Branch will be established with a common command radio channel. A separate tactical radio frequency for fire as well as for law enforcement will be used and confirmed. Responders must use common ICS nomenclature and clear text communications.

RESPONSIBILITY

Emergency Command Center (ECC)

ECC should obtain the following information from Law Enforcement Dispatch and include it in the initial

Fire Dispatch information:

• LE command post location • Safe access route to command post • Updates related to the scope and size of the incident

Page 261

ACTIVE SHOOTER INCIDENT

ECC must identify that an ASI event has occurred or is occurring and dispatch the appropriate resources:

1 Chief Officer 1 Engine 2 EMS Units 1 Safety Officer

*ECC must make a Joint Hazard Assessment Team (JHAT) notification if directed to by the Law Enforcement Commander.

Law Enforcement

Law Enforcement (LE) will arrive and make the determination that the incident involves an active shooter or other ongoing acts of violence. The first responding patrol officers will form a Contact Team (CT) and proceed to locate and isolate the suspect(s) followed by additional CTs.

The role of the Contact Team (CT) is to engage the suspect(s) to limit the possibility of injury or death to victims. As additional officers arrive, a safe perimeter will be established and contact will be made with local fire officials on site.

Law Enforcement will take command of the incident (Incident Command - IC) and establish the location of the Incident’s Command Post (ICP) until a higher ranking LE Officer arrives. The ranking officer should then enter into Unified Command with the ranking Fire Officer as soon as possible

Fire Officers

The first arriving Captain or Chief Oficer shall make contact with the on-scene Law Enforcement Incident Commander, enter into a Unified Command, and confirm the location of the Incident Command Post. The IC will then broadcast the specific location of the ICP to responding resources.

The Captain or Chief Officer shall also advise responding fire units of the designated incident staging location(s) and then provide a face-to-face briefing to fire resources, if possible. Radio communication directly related to the police tactical operation should not be transmitted over non-encrypted channels.

Page 262

ACTIVE SHOOTER INCIDENT

Fire Personnel

Fire personnel will don the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and maintain a high level of situational awareness. All fire personnel must prepare to engage in a rescue group assignment.

DEPLOYMENT

Fire personnel, who formed as Rescue Groups (RG) or forcible entry/exit groups will be escorted by a Force Protection Group (FPG) from Law Enforcement. The Rescue Group Leader will obtain a briefing from the Force Protection Group Leader to ensure that both groups understand the objective and direction of movement. During this operation, the RGs will be working for the leader of FPG.

The goal of the Rescue Groups is to rapidly move ASI victims with Force Protection from the Casualty Collection Point (CCP) to the Treatment Area (TA) in the cold zone where more definitive medical treatment can take place.

If the CT cannot move the injured to the Casualty Collection Point (CCP), then the Rescue Groups (RG) and Force Protection Groups will need to search and locate the injured victim(s) in the areas that have been cleared and deemed secured by the initial Contact Teams (CT). The injured shall be taken to a Casualty Collection Point (CCP) by the RGs.

All personnel operating in the CCP area must avoid hallways and doorways, and should anticipate having to bunker behind areas of cover and concealment. RGs must maintain a high level of situational awareness and may need to relocate injured patients to a treatment area in the cold zone when safe to do so.

PATIENT TREATMENT

Once victims have been identified, located, and the area secured, the Rescue Groups with Force Protection shall proceed and perform rescues during the ongoing incident. Additional RGs shall be deployed as needed with a Force Protection Group.

All fire personnel providing treatment in the Casually Collection Point (CCP) should only stabilize life threatening injuries. Medical treatment should not delay the rapid movement of ASI victims to the TA.

Page 263 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0132 Work Alone Location: All

Drafted By: Cody Zebedee Supervisor: Rick Saulnier Management: Ryan Payne Date: 5/28/2019 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose:

Fire Department staff perform work functions that carry a wide variety of specific and non-specific risks to their personal safety each day. The Foothills County covers a large geographic area which, due in part to its topography, creates a number of challenges with respect to communications by radio, cell phone and GPS technologies. The

Foothills Fire Department is committed to working collaboratively with the Foothills Regional Emergency Services

Commission (FRESC) 9-1-1 Dispatch Centre to provide reliable and consistent communications and dispatch services in an effort to ensure viable communications.

Communications Equipment

Fire Department members shall be issued with:

• Portable radio • ‘smart phone’ technology

Fire Depatment vehicles shall be equipped with:

• Mobile radio • Bell CAD with GPS • Members are required to have a method of communication on their person at all times. Members are responsible for

ensuring that portable radios and cell phones are charged and turned on throughout their shifts.

Page 264 Dispatch/Monitoring Services

When Fire Department staff are required to work alone performing tasks like but not limited to- fire inspections, fire Investigations, investigating complaints. Foothills Regional Emergency Services Commission (FRESC) shall be utilized as a monitoring service for staff. A list with staff contact information shall be provided to FRESC as a reference and be reviewed annually to ensure it is correct.

Primary Means of Communication

The primary means of communication shall occur between FRESC and Fire Staff via radio. The Alberta First Responder Radio Comunications System (AFFRCS) shall the be primary radio system used, in the event that the AFRRCS system can not be used due to lack of coverage or system issues the Legacy VHF system can be used as a backup. The primary radio talk group on AFRRCS to be used for work alone monitoring shall be Dispatch 3. In the event the Legacy system is used, staff shall select the appropriate repeater channel for the area in which they working in.

In the event of no radio coverage, cell phone shall be used to communicate with FRESC.

Members entering areas of known intermittent radio and cell phone availability

If staff is to enter an area of known intermittent radio coverage, the member shall:

• Contact FRESC and advise of the area that they are entering • Advise FRESC of the destination of the member (if attending a property) • Advise FRESC of the estimated time that the member anticipates being in the area • Contact FRESC and indicate when they have vacated the area of intermittent radio availability

Site Visit / Site Inspections

When attending a residential or commercial property, members shall contact FRESC via radio and advise they are

going to be at the following address and to start checks. When FRESC responds and clears the member to go ahead,

the member shall provide:

• his/her exact location, including municipal/9-1-1 address (if applicable), street/avenue and other common name information. • name of property name of business • advise FRESC that the member will be on portable • advise FRESC with the length of times they require (i.e. 10 minutes, 60 minutes, etc.).

Page 265 Maximum timer for a member shall be no longer then 60 minutes.

FRESC will record all information provided and will put the member on a timer for the specified time requested.

At the end of the timer, FRESC will do a check on the member. The member shall cancel the timer when they have completed the site visit by advising FRESC they are now clear of that address. If the member is not finished with the site visit, they shall request an extended timer or ask for additional time (i.e. give me another 10 minutes)

Unable to Contact – Check

If FRESC is unable to make contact with a member during a check, FRESC will:

• repeat attempts to contact via radio, cellular phone or land lines (including leaving messages if required). This process will be repeated for 2 (2) minutes. • also attempt to contact the Foothills Fire Department on call officer, If member is the on call officer, contact the Deputy Fire Chief or Fire Chief. • if after 5 (5) minutes of being unable to contact the non-responding member, FRESC will then contact the RCMP with an “Unable to Locate” complaint and provide the last known location for the member. • After contacting RCMP FRESC will also advise Foothills County Protective Services members on duty of the unable to contact, along with the last known location of the member. • continue to make attempts to contact the non-responding member until contact is established or the RCMP report they have located the non-responding member.

Emergency Button Activated

Each portable radio issued to members shall have an emergency button function programmed that will be monitored/ acknowledged by FRESC. If at any time an emergency alarm from a member’s portable radio is activated, FRESC will:

• Immediately acknowledge the alarm by stating the member’s radio/unit number, members name or call sign. • If no response from the member, FRESC will contact RCMP immediately with the last known location. • FRESC will also advise Foothills County Protective Services members on duty of the emergency button activation, along with the last known location.

Emergency Button Testing

The emergency buttons on portable raios shall be tested once per month on each work alone members radios to ensure the proper function of the emergency button. If radio fails the test it shall be removed from service and repaired and tested prior to the it being placed back into service.

Page 266 Fire Chief ______

Page 267 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0133 Time off for Elections Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal

To have in place a policy consistent with legislation, this allocated time off for members to vote.

Scope

To prepare a procedure that:

(1) Complies with Federal, Provincial and Municipal legislation relative to public election at minimal cost to the department

(2) Provides a procedure which follows for the elective operation of the fire department on Election Day

1.0 The Election Act provides for consecutive time-off for voting;

(a) Federal Election – Sufficient time or 1 hour until polls close (b) Provincial Election – Sufficient time or 1 hour until polls close (c) Municipal Election – Sufficient time or 1 hour until polls close

1.1 In the application if this policy the Fire Chief has the responsibility to members to have appropriate time off.

1.2 On duty members who request time off to vote shall be scheduled for the appropriate length of time starting when polls open.

1.3 The officer in charge shall schedule members so that the platoon manning does not drop below the minimum manning requirement.

Fire Chief ______

Page 268 FIRE DEPARTMENT SOP’S OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY

Page 269

FOOTHILLS FIRE DEPARTMENT HERITAGE POINTE STATION EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN

The purpose of the Emergency Action Plan is to effectively respond to an emergency situation in an orderly predetermined manner.

Contents

I. Emergency Service contact numbers & Designated Personnel

II. Training

III. Designated Personnel & Responsibility List

IV. Medical Aid Response

V. Hall Evacuation

VI. Indoor Shelter

VII. Notification of outside emergency response groups & notification of personnel

VIII. EAP Responsibilities

IX. Environmental / Safety Emergency

X. Power Outage

XI. Emergency Procedures

XII. Potential Emergency Situation

XIII. Bomb Threats

XIV. Violence in the Workplace.

Page 270 APPENDIX

A Diagram of main site indicating Muster point. B Diagram of Fire Hall indicating emergency exits C Emergency Equipment Inventory

I. EMERGENCY SERVICES CONTACT NUMBERS:

EMERGENCY MANAGMENT 8-911 FIRE DEPARTMENT 8-911 AMBULANCE/EMS 8-911 RCMP 8-911 ALBERTA ENVIRONMENT 8-1-800-222-6514 TDG INCIDENT 8-1-800-272-9600 ALBERTA OH&S 8-1-866-415-8690

MD-Foothills Heritage Pointe Fire Hall contact personal Position Name Office # Cell # Fire Chief Rick Saulnier 403 603 6304 403-336-3579 Deputy Fire Chief Scott Young 403-603-3569 403-336-6590 Battalion Chief Will Scheerhoorn 403-603-3576 587-227-9949 Fire Captains Alex Marshall 403-603-3572 403-336-4713 Craig Stewart Chad Demers Chad Sartison Sr. Firefighters Kaid Robson 403-603-3573 Scott Ferguson Christian Loehr Dave Simms

II. Emergency Action Plan Training

The objective of EAP training is to ensure understanding of the plan and safe effective implementation of the procedures. These procedures at a minimum will be reviewed and updated accordingly annually.

All Captains are responsible to: 1 Train personal to sound the alarm and how to respond to an alarm 2 Train personal in the fire hall each year using scripted safety meeting format.

Page 271 3 Update training whenever changes are made in the plan and if personal responsibilities change. 4 Follow up training with evaluation of drills or actual evacuations. 5 Train new personal on the EAP during orientation process.

III. DESIGNATED PERSONNEL AND RESPONSIBILITY LIST

MEDICAL AID TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATES

Department Captain Senior Firefighter

EVACUATION ALTERNATES

Department Captain Senior Firefighter

TRAFFIC CONTROL ALTERNATES

Senior Firefighter POC

POWER OUTAGE ALTERNATES

Department Captain Senior Firefighter

CHEMICAL SPILL ALTERNATES

Department Captain Senior Firefighter

BOMB THREAT ALTERNATES

Whoever takes the call must follow the process posted Department Captain

VIOLENCE IN THE WORKPLACE ALTERNATES

Department Captain Senior Firefighter

IV. MEDICAL AID RESPONSE

Medical aid may be necessary for one individual or many in the case of a large scale disaster.

Page 272 • Captains are immediately responsible for individuals injured within the department.

• Depending on the nature of the injury the victim may be taken to a Health Center or an Advanced First Aider/EMS may be summoned to the scene.

• The Captain will see that initial first aid is administered.

• Employees trained in First Aid & CPR will assist to their level of training and assist with First Aid as required.

• If an ambulance is needed, the Captain under direction of the First Aider will call for an ambulance. Captains will give location of the injured personal as well as instructions on which door to be used by ambulance crew for quick response. In all cases the Senior Firefighter will assume the responsibility if the Captain is not in the area and must also make contact over the radio for help of any other department personnel.

• Large scale emergencies involving several injured employees will be responded to by City EMS. A first aid station will be set up at an alternate suitable site away from the danger. Communication will be maintained with department personnel to direct emergency vehicles to the proper location. The department First Aider will perform triage and first aid/CPR trained employees will be sent to assist.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest

In the event of a sudden cardiac arrest contact City EMS 8-911. Use of the A.E.D. will be restricted to employees who have received proper training.

V. FIRE HALL EVACUATION

Partial or total department evacuation may be necessary in the event of fire, explosion, building collapse, bomb threat and other perceived risks or natural disasters.

The signal for a fire evacuation will be the alarm system sounding. As soon as the alarm sounds all personal must remain calm and evacuate immediately, using the closet, nearest safest exit. The evacuation will take place under the direction of the department Captain or alternate.

Captains or Senior Firefighters will be responsible for evacuating the department, leading personal to the designated marshaling area (Muster station), (NE corner of the hall parking lot, then completing a head count to ensure all personal are accounted for. If personnel are missing, the Captain will be notified so that a search can be carried out.

Page 273 A decision to evacuate may be made by any of the personnel on site. The person making the decision will sound the alarm (if the alarm has not already been sounded) and advise all department personnel by radio.

Evacuation will be under the direction of those listed on the responsibility list.

Visitors and contractors should always be accompanied by department personnel; visitors will always follow the direction of the accompanying personnel in the event of a plant evacuation, using the nearest safest exit.

Captains are responsible for educating the personnel on the Fire Department emergency plan. The required response for various emergencies is to be discussed by the Captain with all new and all existing personnel, as a refresher, at least annually.

Under no circumstance is anyone to leave the property or re-enter the building until the Captain or the designate has given the "OK".

Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan

Aim The aim of a Personal Emergency Evacuation is to provide people who may have problems evacuating the building in an emergency with a personal evacuation plan, based on their special needs. The term “special needs” should be used in its broadest context by managers, supervisors deploying these procedures and should include people suffering from heart conditions, epilepsy, asthma etc., elderly persons and those suffering from temporary disablement such as broken or sprained limbs, and, in some circumstances, pregnant women.

Responsibilities It is the responsibility of any person with special needs to contact the manager / supervisor to start the process. It is the responsibility of the manager / supervisor to identify these needs, to arrange for the team member to complete the “Emergency Evacuation Questionnaire” and to arrange for the appropriate support from the Risk Manager who will assist with the development of the Personal Emergency Evacuation. If required, it is the responsibility of the manager / supervisor to nominate people from his/her department to act as “buddies” and assist the person with special needs in the case of an emergency evacuation, or to make any other special arrangements that may be required.

VI. INDOOR SHELTER

The indoor shelter is the Men’s Change room__.

Page 274 If an emergency requires the use of the shelter the Captain on site will make the decision to use the shelter. When required to announce the plan they will make the announcement using radio ops channel 3.

Severe Weather

IMMEDIATE ACTIONS BEFORE a Tornado / Severe Windstorm DURING a Tornado / Severe Windstorm AFTER a Tornado / Severe Windstorm

General Information

Natural Hazards, such as tornadoes and severe windstorms represent an uncontrollable risk that can have a devastating effect on life and property. Environment Canada (EC) is the primary source of information for monitoring the threat of tornadoes and severe windstorms. Environment Canada issues weather watches and warnings to advise of weather conditions that may affect personal safety and/or property.

• A "tornado watch" means conditions are favourable for the development of tornadoes within the areas and times specified in the watch.

• A "tornado warning" means one or more tornadoes are occurring in the area specified. The expected direction, development, and duration will be given in the warning.

If the Fire Hall is in the path of a tornado, emergency precautions should be taken immediately.

As opposed to fires or hazardous material releases, where people evacuate buildings to a safe area, when faced with an impending tornado or severe windstorm, the preferred option is to have people relocate to a Safe Area within the building they occupy or one that is close by. i.e. INDOOR SHELTER

Tornado / Severe Windstorm Watch - the shift Captain or Designate, will monitor tornado and severe windstorm watches, once they are apprised of the situation.

Emergency Preparedness for Tornadoes

The Government of Alberta's Information Sheet on preparing for a tornado can be accessed at http://www.municipalaffairs.gov.ab.ca/ema/pdf/2005_tornadoes.pdf.

BEFORE A TORNADO / SEVERE WINDSTORM

Watches and warnings are issued via Environment Canada's Weather radio and through commercial radio and television stations. Weather radio is located on the FM radio band at a frequency between 162.40 and 162.55 MHz, depending on the listener's location. Weather radio broadcasts weather information 24 hours a day; including current conditions, and severe weather watches and warnings. Commercial radio and television stations will interrupt regular programming to issue weather watches and warnings. Environment Canada has a website with weather warnings at http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/warnings/ab_e.html. The

Page 275 Calgary CFCN web site has a downloadable program which will provide severe weather warnings. Alberta Emergency Alert (which is the one that interrupts commercial radio/tv station signals) and also SCAN Alerts that would be sent out by either FRESC Dispatch or County Emergency Management staff.

1. Look for approaching storms 2. Look for the following danger signs:

• A sickly greenish or greenish black colour to the sky; • Hail (is a real danger sign if a watch or warning has been issued), • Unusually high relative humidity • A strange quiet that occurs within or shortly after the thunderstorm, • Clouds moving very fast, especially in a rotating pattern or converging towards one area of the sky, • A sound like a waterfall or rushing air that turns into a roar as it comes closer, the sound of a tornado has been likened to that of both railroad trains and jets, • Debris dropping from the sky, and or branches or leaves being pulled upwards, even if no funnel cloud is visible, and • An obvious "funnel-shaped" cloud that is rotating.

3. If you see approaching storms or any of the danger signs, be prepared to take shelter immediately.

DURING A TORNADO / SEVERE WINDSTORM: GENERAL INFORMATION

If you are in: Then: A structure (e.g. residence, Go to a pre-designated shelter area such as a safe room, basement, storm small building, school, cellar, or the lowest building level. If there is no basement, go to the center nursing home, hospital, of an interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from factory, shopping center, corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible high-rise building) between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Do not open windows. Get out immediately and go to the lowest floor of a sturdy, nearby building A vehicle, trailer, or mobile or a storm shelter. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection home from tornadoes. Lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Be aware of the potential for flooding.

Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location. The outside with no shelter Never try to outrun a tornado in urban or congested areas in a car or truck. Instead, leave the vehicle immediately for safe shelter.

Watch out for flying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries.

AFTER A TORNADO / SEVERE WINDSTORM

1. Be aware of new safety issues created by the disaster. Watch for washed out roads, contaminated buildings, contaminated water, gas leaks, broken glass, damaged electrical wiring, and slippery floors.

Page 276 2. Inform dispatch about health and safety issues, including chemical spills, downed power lines, washed out roads, smoldering insulation, and dead animals

VIII. EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN RESPONSABILITIES

The key to successfully managing an emergency is effective communications and an organizational structure to delegate specific tasks and ensure critical items are covered. The responsibilities of the emergency control team are:

EMERGENCY COORDINATOR Will direct over all activities and have the authority to make final decisions.

COORDINATOR ALTERNATES Department Captain Senior Firefighter Chief Officer

EVACUATION: It is the Senior Firefighters responsibility to ensure that all traffic on site is aware of the emergency and the arrival of emergency vehicles. All traffic must cease when an emergency vehicle arrives on site in response to an EMS call. Traffic can only resume after the emergency vehicles have left the site and the Senior FF has cleared the area for normal operation. If emergency vehicles are on site for non-emergency reasons then the traffic may proceed as normal. It is the Senior Firefighters responsibility to ensure the nature of the visit for EMS vehicles are clearly communicated to all traffic.

PUBLIC RELATIONS AND PERSONNEL: Will keep the public and media informed to minimize spread of misinformation. Account for all personnel involved in the emergency and compile a list of missing and injured personnel. This list will only be released with the approval of a Chief Officer.

COORDINATOR ALTERNATES Chief Deputy Chief

WELFARE AND SAFETY:

Ensure all personnel have exited the building in the event of an emergency evacuation. Head counts will be confirmed with each Captain to identify any missing personnel. If personnel are missing, a fire hall sweep will be arranged if the situation is safe. Outside emergency response personnel will be called in if assistance is needed.

Ensure all injured personnel are receiving first aid and that all employees are located in areas where they are no longer exposed to any hazards. Personnel trained in First Aid & CPR will assist in administering health care to their level of training and expertise and as necessary in providing care and supplies for injuries.

Page 277 VIII. ENVIRONMENTAL/ SAFETY EMERGENCY

a. SPILL PROCEDURES:

1. Immediately safeguard the area by posting responsible personnel to prevent people from entering any unsafe area that may cause a risk of personal injury or loss of life.

2. Notify the following:

SPILL COORDINATORS ALTERNATES Department Captain Senior Firefighter

3. If safe to do so control the source of the spill and place temporary barriers to control and minimize the spill.

b. SPECIFIC PROCEDURES FOR SPILLS EXCEEDING THE REPORTABLE AMOUNTS

1. Diesel Fuel Exceeding 100 liters:

a. Utilize any means to control the flow and absorb product.

b. Arrange for clean-up of any pooled diesel (outside resources).

c. Management in consultation with appropriate authorities will determine final clean up requirements and disposal.

• Open flames shall be extinguished, such as people smoking, doing hot work - cutting, welding, heating with a torch etc.

• All sources of electrical spark – Department Captain will assign personnel to ensure no independent electrical sources such as vehicles and or motors are operating.

• Determine the area that will potentially be contaminated based on amount of product released and wind direction also determine if more remote areas need to be included in steps above

X. POWER OUTAGE

In the event of a power outage all personnel in the Fire hall will CEASE WORK IMMEDIATELY. Work WILL NOT RESUME until the main lighting system is fully functional.

Captains: will ensure all personnel cease work and have rendered safe any equipment that may inadvertently start up when power is restored. Captains will also ensure personnel do not resume work until full power has been restored and main lighting is fully operational.

Page 278

Captains: will ensure that all safety precautions as laid out in this policy are adhered to and that all deviations or non-compliance is dealt with.

POTENTIAL EMERGENCY SITUATION

EMERGENCY POTENTIAL FOR OCCURRENCE SITUATION Asbestos Fiber Release No known asbestos present at site. Earthquake Unlikely in the vicinity of the Heritage pointe Fire Hall (no fault lines nearby). Fire/Explosion Possible – fuels and other flammable materials are used at the Fire Hall. Flooding Unlikely in the vicinity of the Heritage Pointe Fire Hall. Hazardous Materials / Possible – various fuels, oils, and other hazardous materials are Oil Spill delivered, used, and stored at the Heritage Pointe Fire Hall. . Natural Gas Leak Possible – natural gas lines exist throughout the Heritage Pointe Fire Hall. . PCB Release No known PCBs present at site. Snow / Ice Storm Heritage Pointe Fire Hall is located in a temperate climate. Snow / ice storms are not uncommon. Severe Weather Possible – High wind, hailstorms and heavy rainstorms occur occasionally. Tornado Unlikely – some tornadoes may pass through the Heritage Pointe Fire Hall area during summer. Utility Loss (Power, etc.) Possible – Heritage Pointe Fire Hall generates some of its own power and purchases some power. Power lines could come down in a storm, brownouts could occur in the summer, or on-site electricity generating equipment malfunctions could occur. Aircraft Incident Heritage Pointe Fire Hall is located in the vicinity of the Calgary airports flight path.

XII. BOMB THREATS

Telephone bomb threats do disrupted operations worldwide which can result in temporary shutdowns, employee evacuations, as well as other related business interruptions. This problem remains a serious one and requires our team to be able to react in a prudent and well-planned way if such a threat is received. In any case, we will always place the safety of the employees first and foremost, which has normally meant temporary evacuation and search of the premises.

For any bomb threats received during regular business hours it is important that our office receptionist or Firefighters be provided with the basic guidelines on how to properly react. In this regard, The Royal Canadian Mounted Police have issued us a pre-printed BOMB THREAT PROCEDURE check lists which is a standard form used Canada wide by industry.

The most important aspect of effectively dealing with these threats is to immediately record in writing the exact time and the exact wording of the caller's message

Page 279 together with any other pertinent information obtained from the call. This will assist fire officers and law enforcement in properly evaluating the threat as well as in establishing appropriate search strategies. As part of these searches, which will normally be carried out by the fire officers in conjunction with the local R.C.M.P. coordinating the search. It is important to be alert for suspicious packages or objects that are located in places that correspond to the callers message; that do not appear to belong on the premises or appear to be out of place; that have suspicious physical characteristics in regard to their size and shape; or that seem to have been abandoned or misplaced.

a. TELEPHONE BOMB THREAT PROCEDURE

While the vast majority of bomb threat telephone calls prove to be hoaxes and are received usually on Mondays and Fridays, we must nevertheless effectively deal with these infrequent occurrences in order to keep business interruptions at a minimum -. Therefore, if you should receive such a call, the following instructions should be followed:

1. Be Calm and Alert - The details of the call will provide the basis for all subsequent management decisions. For this reason, attempt to write down the exact wording of the threatening message immediately and as precisely as possible. To further assist you, attached is a checklist, which should be kept near your telephone and reviewed periodically.

2. Immediately report the call to the department Captain.

3. Immediately report the call to the appropriate police department.

• Provide exact details of the threat.

• Request assistance in searching Fire Hall premises.

• Emphasize need to keep the information confidential.

4. Contact the Chief and Deputy Chief

5. Although the decision to evacuate must rest with local management, the following factors should be considered:

• Past experience.

• Existing access control security procedures of Heritage Pointe Fire Hall

• Time factor.

*If you should receive any inquiries from the press, TV or other news media, please refer them to the Chief or Deputy Chief

Page 280 b. SUSPICIOUS OBJECTS AND PACKAGES

A package or object may be suspected for any of several reasons:

• It is located in a place that corresponds to the message of the threatening telephone call.

• It does not appear to belong on the premises or is out of place.

• Its origin is questionable or cannot be readily determined.

• Its physical characteristics are suspicious in size, shape or weight.

• It appears to be abandoned or misplaced; i.e., purse or briefcase.

If a suspicious item, or what is believed to be one, is discovered, do not attempt to handle it. The following action should be instituted.

• The" immediate” area should be evacuated.

• A request should be made for bomb disposal experts through the previously alerted police department.

• Wash hands with soap and water immediately if you have been in contact with the package or its contents.

• If feasible, gas and electrical inputs to the affected area should be shut off and portable handheld radios switched off.

c. LETTER AND PACKAGE BOMB INDICATORS

The following are possible indicators of suspicious letters and packages.

o Letter and parcel bomb recognition points: o Excessive Postage o Incorrect Titles o Titles, but no names o Misspelling of Common Words o Oily stains or Discoloration o Odor o Noise o No Return Address o Excessive Weight o Rigid Envelope o Protruding Wires or Tinfoil o Restrictive Marking, such as Confidential, Personal, etc. o Hand Written or Poorly-Typed Addresses o Excessive Securing Material such as Masking Tape, String, etc.

Page 281 When confronted with a possible package or letter of suspicion:

1. Remain Calm 2. DO NOT HANDLE or OPEN Package or Letter 3. Inform Chief Staff or On Duty Captain 4. Evacuate the area 5. Wash hands with soap and water immediately if you have been in contact with the package or its contents.

Violence in the Workplace

It is the policy of the Foothills County that all employees and anyone with whom they interact in their work have the right to be free from violence. Therefore, any and all acts of violence are strictly prohibited. For the purposes of this policy, violence is defined as:

The use of physical force with intent to cause bodily harm (except when it is necessary to use reasonable force to defend oneself or others against bodily harm). Acts or threats in any form or manner which are intended to intimidate or cause fear of bodily harm.

This policy applies to all employees and is intended to protect any person at or in any way connected with the workplace. Any violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment and/or criminal prosecution.

If you have been subjected to violence yourself or have observed violence or potentially violent situations, you should proceed as follows: Notify your immediate supervisor or the location manager. This should be done as soon after the incident as possible.

It is the responsibility of all employees not only to refrain from violent behavior themselves, but also to report workplace violence perpetuated by other employees and to cooperate fully in any company investigation of workplace violence. Allegations of violence brought to the attention of the Foothills County will be investigated in a timely and thorough manner. The investigation and resolution of the allegations will be conducted in strictest confidence, except when law requires disclosure or when there are significant safety concerns. Retaliation or reprisal toward the person or persons reporting the incident is strictly prohibited. Any violation of this policy or procedure will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment and/or criminal prosecution.

Page 282 Every employee has the right to seek confidential assistance through the Employee Assistance Program to deal with any issues of violence wherever they happen, including outside the workplace.

Please call the Employee Assistance number: ______on any issue that arises.

Workplace violence is violence or the threat of violence against workers. It can occur at or outside the workplace and can range from threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults and homicide, one of the leading causes of job-related deaths. However it manifests itself, workplace violence is a growing concern for employers and employees nationwide.

Who might perpetrate workplace violence? - Employees acting against other employees or the organization - Non-employees targeting particular employees for personal reasons (i.e. Domestic violence that spills into the workplace) - Non-employees who have personal grudges against employees or the Organization (clients, former employees) - Disturbed outsiders with no apparent connection to the organization - Criminals pursuing their illegal objectives - Terrorists pursuing their political objectives

How can we manage workplace violence? - Assess particular risks - Establish a policy and educate staff - Incorporate prevention elements into routine activities such as pre-employee screening, employee discipline systems, employee assistance programs, anti- discrimination and anti-harassment programs. - Security systems - Emergency and incident planning - Communication – open door policy

Roles and Responsibilities

Human resource management – manages layoffs, provide training for human resource staff and production supervisors, screen applicants,

Security – Develop & maintain a security plan. Layout of facility posted in Security office. Monitor security cameras. Understand and obtain a copy of facilities Emergency Action Plans. Maintain a list of emergency contact names and numbers. Liaison with local R.C.M.P. Train personnel adequately. Maintain a relationship with Human Resources re. escorting employees out of building.

Page 283 Chief Officers / Officers – enforce the violence in the workplace policy, enforce disciplinary action, and ensure employee safety, encouraging employees to report incidents, respond to reports of threatening or violent behavior, manage conflict and educate on department policies.

Employee(s) – report incidents of violence conduct themselves appropriately, follow company rules and policies. If a fight is to break out,…. if you suspect or you are exposed to violence in the workplace

- Assess the situation before you jump in… do they have any weapons in their hands? What physical size are they? What physical shape are they in? Will you be able to handle them? Remember you can easily become the target. - Use a distraction. Distractions such as a loud. “Hey what’s going on here?” can help break the tension and refocus the participant’s attention. - Assess the situation and develop a plan of action. What’s happening and what do you need in order to adequately deal with the situation? If the two participants have already come to physical blows, it is best to call the R.C.M.P. If there has been only name-calling or mild contact, you may be able to intervene to keep it from escalating. - Get help. Trying to intervene alone is difficult and can put you at risk. Ask an employee to help you. If you are the only employee, remain as calm as possible and call for assistance. Most of the time just picking up the phone will remedy the situation. - Remove the audience. Sometimes the only reason the fight continues is because the participants are reluctant to back down in front of others. As long as the audience is there, the fight will continue. Get the onlookers out of there. - Separate the participants and make sure they cannot maintain eye contact with each other. Sometimes the fight will continue through glaring and staring. Although each will want you to take sides, now is NOT the time to assign blame. After you have conducted your investigation, you can determine a course of action, but for right now, it is premature. - Use the buddy system. Whenever there is even the remote possibility of danger, it helps to have another person in the room with you, or in the next room where they can overhear and summon help if needed. - Position yourself for safety. Make sure that you are closest to the door and always have an escape route. Don’t let your desk or table trap you, and never turn your back on someone who is agitated or angry. Make sure that you are farther than arm’s length away from the individual. - Trust your instincts. Don’t second-guess your feelings. Listen to internal warning signs. If something seems off, then it probably is. - If the Full Time staff vacates the building during normal work hours and you find yourself alone. The front door will be locked by switching the door over

Page 284 to the locked position. Staff should only respond to civilians at the door only if the person at the door is identified. Civilians not identified will be required to call the fire phone number posted at the front door.

Many potentially violent situations develop over time, and are more likely to end well if they end early.

Policy Reviewed Emergency Action Plan

Date Reviewed By Changes Next Review

Page 285

FOOTHILLS FIRE DEPARTMENT ______STATION EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN

The purpose of the Emergency Action Plan is to effectively respond to an emergency situation in an orderly predetermined manner.

Contents

I. Emergency Service contact numbers & Designated Personnel

II. Training

III. Designated Personnel & Responsibility List

IV. Medical Aid Response

V. Hall Evacuation

VI. Indoor Shelter

VII. Notification of outside emergency response groups & notification of personnel

VIII. EAP Responsibilities

IX. Environmental / Safety Emergency

X. Power Outage

XI. Emergency Procedures

XII. Potential Emergency Situation

XIII. Bomb Threats

XIV. Violence in the Workplace.

Page 286

APPENDIX

A Diagram of main site indicating Muster point. B Diagram of Fire Hall indicating emergency exits C Emergency Equipment Inventory

I. EMERGENCY SERVICES CONTACT NUMBERS:

DISASTER SERVICES _-911 FIRE DEPARTMENT _-911 AMBULANCE/EMS _-911 RCMP _-911 ALBERTA ENVIRONMENT _-1-800-222-6514 TDG INCIDENT --1-800-272-9600 ALBERTA OH&S --1-866-415-8690

MD-Foothills Heritage Pointe Fire Hall contact personal Position Name Office # Cell # Fire Chief Jim Smith 403 603 6304 587 227 9949 On Call Duty Officer Rick Saulnier 403-923-1411 Fire Captains Sr. Firefighter’s

II. Emergency Action Plan Training

The objective of EAP training is to ensure understanding of the plan and safe effective implementation of the procedures. These procedures at a minimum will be reviewed and updated accordingly annually.

All Captains are responsible to: 1 Train personal to sound the alarm and how to respond to an alarm 2 Train personal in the fire hall each year using scripted safety meeting format. 3 Update training whenever changes are made in the plan and if personal responsibilities change. 4 Follow up training with evaluation of drills or actual evacuations. 5 Train new personal on the EAP during orientation process.

Page 287

III. DESIGNATED PERSONNEL AND RESPONSIBILITY LIST

MEDICAL AID TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATES

Department Captain Senior Firefighter

EVACUATION ALTERNATES

Department Captain Senior Firefighter

TRAFFIC CONTROL ALTERNATES

Senior Firefighter POC

POWER OUTAGE ALTERNATES

Department Captain Senior Firefighter

CHEMICAL SPILL ALTERNATES

Department Captain Senior Firefighter

BOMB THREAT ALTERNATES

Whoever takes the call must follow the process posted Department Captain

VIOLENCE IN THE WORKPLACE ALTERNATES

Department Captain Senior Firefighter

Page 288

IV. MEDICAL AID RESPONSE

Medical aid may be necessary for one individual or many in the case of a large scale disaster.

• Captains are immediately responsible for individuals injured within the department.

• Depending on the nature of the injury the victim may be taken to a Health Center or an Advanced First Aider/EMS may be summoned to the scene.

• The Captain will see that initial first aid is administered.

• Employees trained in First Aid & CPR will assist to their level of training and assist with First Aid as required.

• If an ambulance is needed, the Captain under direction of the First Aider will call for an ambulance. Captains will give location of the injured personal as well as instructions on which door to be used by ambulance crew for quick response. In all cases the Senior Firefighter will assume the responsibility if the Captain is not in the area and must also make contact over the radio for help of any other department personnel.

• Large scale emergencies involving several injured employees will be responded to by City EMS. A first aid station will be set up at an alternate suitable site away from the danger. Communication will be maintained with department personal to direct emergency vehicles to the proper location. The department First Aider will perform triage and first aid/CPR trained employees will be sent to assist.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest

In the event of a sudden cardiac arrest contact EMS _-911. Use of the A.E.D. will be restricted to employees who have received proper training.

V. FIRE HALL EVACUATION

Partial or total department evacuation may be necessary in the event of fire, explosion, building collapse, bomb threat and other perceived risks or natural disasters.

The signal for a fire evacuation will be the alarm system sounding. As soon as the alarm sounds all personal must remain calm and evacuate immediately, using the

Page 289 closet, nearest safest exit. The evacuation will take place under the direction of the department Captain or alternate.

Captains or Senior Firefighters will be responsible for evacuating the department, leading personal to the designated marshaling area (Muster station), (NE corner of the hall parking lot, then completing a head count to ensure all personal are accounted for. If personnel are missing, the Captain will be notified so that a search can be carried out.

A decision to evacuate may be made by any of the personal on site. The person making the decision will sound the alarm (if the alarm has not already been sounded) and advise all department personal by radio.

Evacuation will be under the direction of those listed on the responsibility list.

Visitors and contractors should always be accompanied by department personal; visitors will always follow the direction of the accompanying personal in the event of a plant evacuation, using the nearest safest exit.

Captains are responsible for educating the personal on the Fire Department emergency plan. The required response for various emergencies is to be discussed by the Captain with all new and all existing personal, as a refresher, at least twice annually.

Under no circumstance is anyone to leave the property or re-enter the building until the Captain or the designate has given the "OK".

Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan

Aim The aim of a Personal Emergency Evacuation is to provide people who may have problems evacuating the building in an emergency with a personal evacuation plan, based on their special needs. The term “special needs” should be used in its broadest context by managers, supervisors deploying these procedures and should include people suffering from heart conditions, epilepsy, asthma etc., elderly persons and those suffering from temporary disablement such as broken or sprained limbs, and, in some circumstances, pregnant women.

Responsibilities It is the responsibility of any person with special needs to contact the manager / supervisor to start the process. It is the responsibility of the manager / supervisor to identify these needs, to arrange for the team member to complete the “Emergency Evacuation Questionnaire” and to arrange for the appropriate

Page 290 support from the Risk Manager who will assist with the development of the Personal Emergency Evacuation. If required, it is the responsibility of the manager / supervisor to nominate people from his/her department to act as “buddies” and assist the person with special needs in the case of an emergency evacuation, or to make any other special arrangements that may be required.

VI. INDOOR SHELTER

The indoor shelter is the ______. If an emergency requires the use of the shelter the Captain on site will make the decision to use the shelter. When required to announce the plan they will make the announcement using radio channel ______.

VIII. EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN RESPONSABILITIES

The key to successfully managing an emergency is effective communications and an organizational structure to delegate specific tasks and ensure critical items are covered. The responsibilities of the emergency control team are:

EMERGENCY COORDINATOR Will direct over all activities and have the authority to make final decisions.

COORDINATOR ALTERNATES Department Captain Senior Firefighter Chief Officer

EVACUATION: It is the Senior Firefighters responsibility to ensure that all traffic on site is aware of the emergency and the arrival of emergency vehicles. All traffic must cease when emergency vehicles arrive on site in response to an EMS call. Traffic can only resume after the emergency vehicles have left the site and the Senior FF has cleared the area for normal operation. If emergency vehicles are on site for non-emergency reasons, then the traffic may proceed as normal. It is Senior Firefighters responsibility to ensure the nature of the visit for EMS vehicles are clearly communicated to all traffic.

PUBLIC RELATIONS AND PERSONNEL: Will keep the public and media informed to minimize spread of misinformation. Account for all personnel involved in the emergency and compile a list of missing and injured personnel. This list will only be released with the approval of a Chief Officer.

Page 291 COORDINATOR ALTERNATES Chief On Call Duty Officer

.

WELFARE AND SAFETY: Ensure all personnel have exited the building in the event of an emergency evacuation. Head counts will be confirmed with each Captain to identify any missing personal. If personal are missing, a fire hall sweep will be arranged if the situation is safe. Outside emergency response personnel will be called in if assistance is needed.

Ensure all injured personnel are receiving first aid and that all employees are located in areas where they are no longer exposed to any hazards. Personal trained in First Aid & CPR will assist in administering health care to their level of training and expertise and as necessary in providing care and supplies for injuries.

VIII. ENVIRONMENTAL/ SAFETY EMERGENCY

a. SPILL PROCEDURES:

1. Immediately safeguard the area by posting responsible personnel to prevent people from entering any unsafe area that may cause a risk of personal injury or loss of life.

2. Notify the following:

SPILL COORDINATORS ALTERNATES Department Captain Senior Firefighter

3. If safe to do so control the source of the spill and place temporary barriers to control and minimize the spill.

b. SPECIFIC PROCEDURES FOR SPILLS EXCEEDING THE REPORTABLE AMOUNTS

1. Diesel Fuel Exceeding 100 liters:

a. Utilize any means to control the flow and absorb product.

b. Arrange for clean-up of any pooled diesel (outside resources).

c. Management in consultation with appropriate authorities will determine final

Page 292 clean up requirements and disposal.

2. Propane Exceeding 100 liters:

Propane spills will evaporate almost immediately so spill cleanup is very seldom a factor. FLAMMABLE VAPORS THAT ARE 1 AND 1/2 TIMES THE WEIGHT OF AIR ARE THE MAJOR CONCERN. These vapors can drift significant distances and will pool in low spots in the area. EXTREME CAUTION MUST BE EXERCISED TO PREVENT VAPOR DRIFT FROM CONTACTING IGNITION SOURCES, WHICH WILL RESULT IN A FLASH BACK. When dealing with a propane leak ensure your body does not come into contact with liquid propane. Liquid propane is very volatile and "gasses off' immediately, this will cause a "freeze" burn to any exposed part of the body.

If propane does spill, determine the direction the vapor mist will travel and immediately control all ignition sources in the path of the vapor flow. These will include, but not be limited to:

• Open flames such as people smoking, doing hot work - cutting, welding, heating with a torch etc.

• All sources of electrical spark – Department Captain will assign personal to ensure no independent electrical sources such as vehicles and or motors are operating.

• Determine the area that will potentially be contaminated based on amount of product released and wind direction also determine if more remote areas need to be included in steps above

X. POWER OUTAGE

In the event of a power outage all personal in the Fire hall will CEASE WORK IMMEDIATELY. Work WILL NOT RESUME until the main lighting system is fully functional.

Captains: will ensure all personal cease work and have rendered safe any equipment that may inadvertently start up when power is restored. Captains will also ensure personal do not resume work until full power has been restored and main lighting is fully operational.

Captains: will ensure that all safety precautions as laid out in this policy are adhered to and that all deviations or non-compliance is dealt with.

POTENTIAL EMERGENCY SITUATION

EMERGENCY POTENTIAL FOR OCCURRENCE SITUATION

Page 293 Asbestos Fiber Release No known asbestos present at site. Earthquake Unlikely in the vicinity of the Heritage pointe Fire Hall (no fault lines nearby). Fire/Explosion Possible – fuels and other flammable materials are used at the Fire Hall. Flooding Unlikely in the vicinity of the Heritage Pointe Fire Hall. Hazardous Materials / Possible – various fuels, oils, and other hazardous materials are Oil Spill delivered, used, and stored at the Heritage Pointe Fire Hall. . Natural Gas Leak Possible – natural gas lines exist throughout the Heritage Pointe Fire Hall. . PCB Release No known PCBs present at site. Snow / Ice Storm Heritage Pointe Fire Hall is located in a temperate climate. Snow / ice storms are not uncommon. Severe Weather Possible – High wind, hailstorms and heavy rainstorms occur occasionally. Tornado Unlikely – some tornadoes may pass through the Heritage Pointe Fire Hall area during summer. Utility Loss (Power, etc.) Possible – Heritage Pointe Fire Hall generates some of its own power and purchases some power. Power lines could come down in a storm, brownouts could occur in the summer, or on-site electricity generating equipment malfunctions could occur. Aircraft Incident Heritage Pointe Fire Hall is located in the vicinity of the Calgary airports flight path.

XII. BOMB THREATS

Since 1975, telephone bomb threats have periodically disrupted our plant operations worldwide. In this regard numerous threats have been received which have resulted in temporary shutdowns, employee evacuations, the curtailment of production schedules; as well as other related business interruptions. Most of these threats have been received during times of labor negotiations and strike situations. Other calls have been suspected to have been made by recently terminated employees. Although no actual bombs have been found to date, the problem nevertheless remains a serious one and requires our plant managers to be able to react in a prudent and well-planned way if such a threat is received. In each of these cases, we have always placed the safety of the employees first and foremost, which has normally meant temporary evacuation and search of the premises.

Because the majority of bomb threats received during regular business hours have been made directly into our main fire hall telephone numbers, it is important that your office receptionist or switchboard operator be provided with the basic guidelines on how to properly react. In this regard, The Royal Canadian Mounted Police have issued us a pre-printed BOMB THREAT PROCEDURE check lists which is a standard form used Canada wide by industry.

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The most important aspect of effectively dealing with these threats is to immediately record in writing the exact time and the exact wording of the caller's message together with any other pertinent information obtained from the call. This will assist fire officers and law enforcement in properly evaluating the threat as well as in establishing appropriate search strategies. As part of these searches, which will normally be carried out by the fire officers in conjunction with the local R.C.M.P. coordinating the search. It is important to be alert for suspicious packages or objects that are located in places that correspond to the caller’s message; that do not appear to belong on the premises or appear to be out of place; that has suspicious physical characteristics in regard to their size and shape; or that seem to have been abandoned or misplaced.

a. TELEPHONE BOMB THREAT PROCEDURE

While the vast majority of bomb threat telephone calls prove to be hoaxes and are received usually on Mondays and Fridays, we must nevertheless effectively deal with these infrequent occurrences in order to keep business interruptions at a minimum -. Therefore, if you should receive such a call, the following instructions should be followed:

1. Be Calm and Alert - The details of the call will provide the basis for all subsequent management decisions. For this reason, attempt to write down the exact wording of the threatening message immediately and as precisely as possible. To further assist you, attached is a checklist, which should be kept near your telephone and reviewed periodically.

2. Immediately report the call to the department Captain.

3. Immediately report the call to the appropriate police department.

• Provide exact details of the threat.

• Request assistance in searching Fire Hall premises.

• Emphasize need to keep the information confidential.

4. Contact the Chief and On Call Duty Officer

5. Although the decision to evacuate must rest with local management, the following factors should be considered:

• Past experience.

• Existing access control security procedures of plant premises, i.e., perimeter door locks, fencing, guards.

• Time factor.

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*If you should receive any inquiries from the press, TV or other news media, please refer them to the Chief or On Call Duty Officer

b. SUSPICIOUS OBJECTS AND PACKAGES

A package or object may be suspected for any of several reasons:

• It is located in a place that corresponds to the message of the threatening telephone call.

• It does not appear to belong on the premises or is out of place.

• Its origin is questionable or cannot be readily determined.

• Its physical characteristics are suspicious in size, shape or weight.

• It appears to be abandoned or misplaced; i.e., purse or briefcase.

If a suspicious item, or what is believed to be one, is discovered, do not attempt to handle it. The following action should be instituted.

• The" immediate” area should be evacuated.

• A request should be made for bomb disposal experts through the previously alerted police department.

• Wash hands with soap and water immediately if you have been in contact with the package or its contents.

• If feasible, gas and electrical inputs to the affected area should be shut off and portable hand held radios switched off.

c. LETTER AND PACKAGE BOMB INDICATORS

The following are possible indicators of suspicious letters and packages.

o Letter and parcel bomb recognition points: o Excessive Postage o Incorrect Titles o Titles, but no names o Misspelling of Common Words o Oily stains or Discoloration

Page 296 o Odor o Noise o No Return Address o Excessive Weight o Rigid Envelope o Protruding Wires or Tinfoil o Restrictive Marking, such as Confidential, Personal, etc. o Hand Written or Poorly-Typed Addresses o Excessive Securing Material such as Masking Tape, String, etc.

When confronted with a possible package or letter of suspicion:

1. Remain Calm 2. DO NOT HANDLE or OPEN Package or Letter 3. Inform Security and Plant Management immediately 4. Evacuate the area 5. Wash hands with soap and water immediately if you have been in contact with the package or its contents.

XV. Violence in the Workplace

It is the policy of the County of Foothills that all employees and anyone with whom they interact in their work have the right to be free from violence. Therefore, any and all acts of violence are strictly prohibited. For the purposes of this policy, violence is defined as:

The use of physical force with intent to cause bodily harm (except when it is necessary to use reasonable force to defend oneself or others against bodily harm).

Acts or threats in any form or manner which are intended to intimidate or cause fear of bodily harm.

This policy applies to all employees and is intended to protect any person at or in any way connected with the workplace. Any violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment and/or criminal prosecution.

Page 297 If you have been subjected to violence yourself or have observed violence or potentially violent situations, you should proceed as follows: Notify your immediate supervisor or the location manager. This should be done as soon after the incident as possible.

It is the responsibility of all employees not only to refrain from violent behavior themselves, but also to report workplace violence perpetuated by other employees and to cooperate fully in any company investigation of workplace violence. Allegations of violence brought to the attention of the County of Foothills will be investigated in a timely and thorough manner. The investigation and resolution of the allegations will be conducted in strictest confidence, except when law requires disclosure or when there are significant safety concerns. Retaliation or reprisal toward the person or persons reporting the incident is strictly prohibited. Any violation of this policy or procedure will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment and/or criminal prosecution.

Every employee has the right to seek confidential assistance through the Employee Assistance Program to deal with any issues of violence wherever they happen, including outside the workplace.

Please call the Employee Assistance number: ______on any issue that arises.

Workplace violence is violence or the threat of violence against workers. It can occur at or outside the workplace and can range from threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults and homicide, one of the leading causes of job-related deaths. However, it manifests itself, workplace violence is a growing concern for employers and employees nationwide.

Who might perpetrate workplace violence? - Employees acting against other employees or the organization - Non-employees targeting particular employees for personal reasons (i.e. Domestic violence that spills into the workplace) - Non-employees who have personal grudges against employees or the Organization (clients, former employees) - Disturbed outsiders with no apparent connection to the organization - Criminals pursuing their illegal objectives - Terrorists pursuing their political objectives.

How can we manage workplace violence? - Assess particular risks - Establish a policy and educate staff - Incorporate prevention elements into routine activities such as pre-employee screening, employee discipline systems, employee assistance programs, anti- discrimination and anti-harassment programs.

Page 298 - Security systems - Emergency and incident planning - Communication – open door policy

Roles and Responsibilities

Human resource management – manages layoffs, provide training for human resource staff and production supervisors, screen applicants,

Security – Develop & maintain a security plan. Layout of facility posted in Security office. Monitor security cameras. Understand and obtain a copy of facilities Emergency Action Plans. Maintain a list of emergency contact names and numbers. Liaison with local R.C.M.P. Train personnel adequately. Maintain a relationship with Human Resources re. escorting employees out of building.

Chief Officers / Officers – enforce the violence in the workplace policy, enforce disciplinary action, and ensure employee safety, encouraging employees to report incidents, respond to reports of threatening or violent behavior, manage conflict and educate on department policies.

Employee(s) – report incidents of violence conduct themselves appropriately, follow company rules and policies. If a fight is to break out,…. if you suspect or you are exposed to violence in the workplace

- Assess the situation before you jump in… do they have any weapons in their hands? What physical size are they? What physical shape are they in? Will you be able to handle them? Remember you can easily become the target. - Use a distraction. Distractions such as a loud. “Hey what’s going on here?” can help break the tension and refocus the participant’s attention. - Assess the situation and develop a plan of action. What’s happening and what do you need in order to adequately deal with the situation? If the two participants have already come to physical blows, it is best to call the R.C.M.P. If there has been only name-calling or mild contact, you may be able to intervene to keep it from escalating. - Get help. Trying to intervene alone is difficult and can put you at risk. Ask an employee to help you. If you are the only employee, remain as calm as possible and call for assistance. Most of the time just picking up the phone will remedy the situation. - Remove the audience. Sometimes the only reason the fight continues is because the participants are reluctant to back down in front of others. As long as the audience is there, the fight will continue. Get the onlookers out of there.

Page 299 - Separate the participants and make sure they cannot maintain eye contact with each other. Sometimes the fight will continue through glaring and staring. Although each will want you to take sides, now is NOT the time to assign blame. After you have conducted your investigation, you can determine a course of action, but for right now, it is premature. - Use the buddy system. Whenever there is even the remote possibility of danger, it helps to have another person in the room with you, or in the next room where they can overhear and summon help if needed. - Position yourself for safety. Make sure that you are closest to the door and always have an escape route. Don’t let your desk or table trap you, and never turn your back on someone who is agitated or angry. Make sure that you are farther than arm’s length away from the individual. - Trust your instincts. Don’t second-guess your feelings. Listen to internal warning signs. If something seems off, then it probably is. - If the Full-Time staff vacates the building during normal work hours and you find yourself alone. The front door will be locked by switching the door over to the locked position. Staff should only respond to civilians at the door only if the person at the door is identified. Civilians not identified will be required to call the fire phone number posted at the front door.

Many potentially violent situations develop over time and are more likely to end well if they end early.

Policy Reviewed Emergency Action Plan

Date Reviewed By Changes Next Review

Page 300 Second Floor Fitness Room Second Floor Deck Second Floor Deck storage Storage Stairway

= Emergency exits

Second Apperatus Apperatus = Evacuation routes bays 4 / 3 bays 2 / 1 Kitchen/Louge = First Aid Station Floor Area = MSDS Location

= Eye wash station

Stairway = Fire Extinguisher Dorms Washrooms Hose = Pull Station Tower

= Indoor Shelter Generator Workshop Storage room Room

Locker First Apperatus Apperatus Rooms bays 4 / 3 bays 2 / 1 Training Floor Main Office Area Room

Miantenance/ Hose Tower Electrical/Meter Rooms Muster station

Page 301 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0014 Exposure Control Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this exposure control plan is to: 1. Eliminate or minimize the occupational exposure to blood or certain other body fluids, hazardous materials; and

2. Comply with the OHS Bloodborne Pathogen Standard,

EXPOSURE DETERMINATION OHS requires employers to perform an exposure determination to identify which employees may incur occupational exposure to blood or other potentially infectious or hazardous materials. The exposure determination is made without regard to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) (i.e. employees are considered to be exposed even if they wear PPE). This exposure determination is required to list all the job classifications in which all employees may be expected to incur such occupational exposure, regardless of frequency. In the Foothills Fire Department, all active members, due to the nature of the fire service, have the potential to be exposed to bloodborne, airborne pathogens and or hazardous materials.

IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE AND METHODOLOGY OHS also requires that this plan include a schedule and method of implementation for the various requirements of the standard.

Compliance Methods Body substance isolation precautions and decontamination procedures will be observed by all members of the Foothills Fire Department in order to prevent contact with blood or other potentially infectious or

Page 302 hazardous materials. All blood or other potentially infectious material will be considered infectious regardless of the perceived status of the source individual.

Work practice controls will be utilized to eliminate or minimize exposure to members of the Foothills Fire Department. Where occupational exposure remains after institution of these controls, personal protective equipment shall also be utilized. Due to the exposure to advanced life support procedures with EMS Service, members have an additional exposure to contaminated needles and sharps. Handling of these instruments, as well as blood samples that may be drawn should be avoided to reduce the possibility of exposure.

Hand washing facilities are available at the fire station to members who incur exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. OHS requires that these facilities be readily accessible after incurring exposure; however, due to the nature of the fire service, this is not always possible. As an alternative, waterless hand cleaner and antiseptic towelettes have been placed in the hall, and the first aid kit on the apparatus. Hand washing should be done immediately upon returning to the fire station. Hand washing shall be done after each emergency incident, after cleaning protective clothing or equipment, and before and after handling clean or contaminated equipment. Hand washing shall be accomplished with soap and water by lathering the skin vigorously for at least 10 seconds followed by a thorough rinsing.

Contaminated Equipment Any reusable equipment such as backboards, cervical collars, blood pressure cuffs, turn-out gear etc., which have become contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious or hazardous materials, shall be decontaminated prior to being re-placed on the apparatus. Decontamination may be accomplished by applying soap and water and lathering the equipment vigorously for at least 10 seconds followed by a thorough rinsing. All contaminated clothing will be washed at the hall upon returning to the station, turn-out gear will be rinsed on scene prior to clearing. If the equipment cannot be decontaminated immediately, it should be stored in the contaminated equipment area at the Foothills Fire Department until it can be decontaminated. If the turn-out gear cannot be decontaminated (washed) at the hall immediately, it should be stored in the contaminated equipment area at the Foothills Fire Department until it can be decontaminated (washed).

Any reusable equipment that cannot be fully decontaminated shall be discarded in an approved manner.

Any disposable equipment such as bandages, airways, oxygen delivery devices, etc., which have become contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious materials shall be placed in a bag at the emergency scene and disposed of in the responding ambulance as per their current policy, or the residents garbage can.

Page 303 Personal Protective Equipment

PPE Provision Personal protective equipment will be chosen based on the anticipated exposure to blood or other potentially infectious or hazardous materials. The protective equipment will be considered appropriate only if it does not permit blood or other potentially infectious or hazardous materials to pass through or to reach the under clothing, skin, eyes, mouth or other mucous membranes under normal conditions of use and for the duration or time which the protective equipment will be used. Latex gloves, goggles, masks will be stored in all of the first aid kits on the apparatus. Additionally, firefighter’s turnout gear can also serve as protective equipment. When it can be reasonably anticipated that sharp or rough surfaces will be encountered, firefighting gloves shall be worn over latex gloves.

PPE Cleaning, Laundering and Disposal To avoid the possibility of spreading infectious diseases or hazardous materials, all personal protective equipment will be cleaned, laundered and/or disposed of by the Foothills Fire Department.

All garments that are penetrated by blood shall be removed immediately or as soon as feasible. All PPE will be removed prior to leaving the emergency incident and returned to the fire station. When PPE is removed, it shall be placed in a bag and placed in the responding ambulance for disposal. If the contaminated PPE is reusable, such as turnout gear, it shall be bagged and returned to the fire station for proper decontamination.

Gloves Gloves shall be worn where it is reasonably anticipated that there will be hand contact with blood, other potentially infectious materials, non-intact skin, mucous membranes or when handling or touching contaminated items or surfaces.

Disposable gloves are not to be washed or decontaminated for re-use and are to be replaced as soon as practical when they become contaminated or as soon as feasible if they are torn, punctured, or when their ability to function as a barrier is compromised. Gloves shall also be replaced prior to attending to another patient.

Heavy-duty disposable gloves shall be worn while cleaning and disinfecting contaminated equipment. These gloves are more resistant to abrasions, cuts, snags, and punctures.

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Eye, Face, and Respiratory Protection Masks in combination with eye protection devices, such as goggles or glasses with solid side shields are required to be worn whenever splashes, spray, splatter, or droplets of blood or other potentially infectious materials may be generated and eye, nose, or mouth contamination can reasonably be anticipated.

It is also required that a respiratory mask be worn for the duration of contact with any patient who may be potentially infected with airborne transmitted exposures.

Additional Protection Additional protective clothing such as turnout gear shall be worn in instances when gross contamination may be anticipated. This is done to protect the firefighter’s personal garments from exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials.

Housekeeping Decontamination of reusable supplies and equipment shall be accomplished by utilizing a hypochlorite solution (10% bleach in water) or other approved EPA registered germicide.

Laundry Procedures Personal garments or turnout gear that has become contaminated with blood or other potentially infectious or hazardous materials shall be handled as little as possible. Such garments or gear shall be placed in a bag and marked with the owners name and shall be left at the fire station for proper decontamination or disposal.

The contaminated garments shall be laundered in house or sent out for laundering at the expense of the Fire Department.

Post Exposure Evaluation and Follow-up All exposure incidents shall be reported, investigated, documented and if deemed necessary checked by doctor. When the employee incurs an exposure incident, it shall be reported to the Officer in charge of the incident. The exposure occurrence shall be documented on the initial fire report on Fire Pro.

Following a report of an exposure incident, the exposed member shall immediately receive a confidential medical evaluation and follow-up, including at least the following elements:

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a) Documentation of the route of exposure, and the circumstances under which the exposure incident occurred;

b) Identification and documentation of the source individual, unless it can be established that identification is infeasible or prohibited by law;

c) If a bloodborne pathogen exposure is suspected, the source individual’s blood shall be tested as soon as feasible and after consent is obtained in order to determine HBV and HIV infectivity. If consent is not obtained, it shall establish and document that legally required consent cannot be obtained. When the source individual’s consent is not required by law, the source individual’s blood, if available, shall be tested and the results documented;

d) When the source individual is already known to be infected with HBV or HIV, testing for the source individual’s known HBV or HIV status need not be repeated; and

e) Results of the source individual’s testing shall be made available to the exposed member, and the member shall be informed of applicable laws and regulations concerning disclosure of the identity and infectious status of the source individual.

All members who incur an exposure incident will be offered post-exposure and follow-up in accordance with the OHS standard. All exposed members shall speak to our medical director through the Chief.

Information and Training The Foothills Fire Department shall ensure that training is provided at the time of acceptance into the fire department, and that it shall be repeated within one year of the previous training. Training shall be tailored to the education and language level of the members and shall be offered at convenient times. The training shall cover the following:

a. A copy of the standard and an explanation of its contents;

b. A discussion of the epidemiology and symptoms of bloodborne/airborne diseases;

c. An explanation of the modes of transmission of bloodborne pathogens;

d. An explanation of the Foothills Fire Department Bloodborne Pathogens/ Exposure Control Plan, and a method for obtaining a copy;

Page 306 e. The recognition of tasks that may involve exposure;

f. An explanation of the use and limitations of methods to reduce exposure;

g. Information on the types, use, location, removal, handling, decontamination, and disposal of personal protective equipment;

h. An explanation of the basis of selection of PPE;

i. Information on the appropriate actions to take and persons to contact in an emergency involving blood or other potentially infectious materials;

j. An explanation of the procedures to follow if an exposure incident occurs, including the method of reporting and medical follow-up; and

k. Information on the evaluation and follow-up required after a member exposure incident.

Recordkeeping

Training Records The Foothills Fire Department is responsible for maintaining the following training records. These records will be kept in the training file in the Foothills Fire department folder or FirePro. Training records shall be maintained according to FFD SOP on training Record Keeping. . The following information shall be documented:

a. The dates of the training sessions; b. An outline describing the material presented; c. The names and qualifications of persons conducting the training; and d. The names of all persons attending the training sessions.

Availability All records shall be made available to the member.

Evaluation and Review

Page 307 The Officers of the Foothills Fire Department and the Safety Committee of the MD-Foothills are responsible for reviewing this plan and its effectiveness annually, and for updating it as necessary.

Fire Chief ______

Page 308 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0015 Investigation of Accidents/Injuries Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Refer to Municpal Health and Safety Manual for procedure.

Fire Chief ______

Page 309 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0026 Contractor Safety Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose: One of the key business drivers within The County of Foothills is that "people are our most valuable asset. We are dedicated and committed to maintaining safe and healthy workplaces for all employees”. This is why the County of Foothills is committed to take all reasonable steps to ensure that we hire only those Contractors who provide a safe working environment, in addition to performing quality work.

As a Contractor hired for the purposes of performing work for Foothills Fire Department, it must be understood that "your personal safety and the safety of others must never be compromised for the sake of getting the job done."

1. Designated Areas of Use

Contractors are not allowed in any area of the building or on any roof top outside their area of work, unless approved by Foothills Fire Department Representative.

2. Security Entry and Exit All Contractors must stop at the Administrative Assistants desk prior to entering the building and sign in. Contractors who drive their vehicle onto the property will park in a designated area north of the building. Parking is understood to be at the individual owner's risk. They County of Foothills is not responsible for any damage sustained through daily operation of the Fire department or as a result of a collision with a non-County owned vehicle. All Contractor employees and vehicles must report to the Administrative Assistants desk when leaving the site and sign out.

Sign Out Every Contractor must have contact with their designated Foothills Fire Department Representative before leaving the Fire Hall. The Fire Hall representative will inspect the work site and accept its conditions, only after the clean-up requirements have been met.

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3. Drugs and Alcohol No alcohol or drugs are permitted on the premises. Any employees suspected of being under the influence of drugs/alcohol will be removed from the property.

4. Weapons Possession of firearms or any type of weapon on the property is not allowed. Violators of this rule will be removed immediately.

5. Liability and WCB Contractor companies must provide a certificate of Liability Insurance and a copy of their WCB account to Foothills County.

6. Proof of Qualifications Every Contractor must provide proof of qualifications for working within a trade scope (e.g., electrician, plumber). Where applicable, your company will provide Foothills County with proof of certification and training for working within a trade scope. This proof is required to ensure tasks that involve specialized training are completed only by qualified trades people. Contractor employees who may be performing specialized work will be asked to provide proof of training, i.e., confined space, lockout etc.

7. WHMIS Training Requirements All Contractors must have proof of WHMIS training, as per the WHMIS Regulations. MSDS Locations Master copies of the MSDS are located in a designated area in the Fire Hall. Contractors are required to have up to date MSDS for all chemicals they are using in their possession while working at Heritage Pointe Fire Department. These MSDS must be provided before you come onto site. Copies will be attached to the safe work permit.

8. Policies and Procedures All Contractors will strictly follow all Fire Department policies and procedures. Any work being conducted that does not comply with Foothills County, Provincial or Federal standards is strictly prohibited and will be stopped immediately.

9. Smoking Smoking is not permitted on this work site. Smoking is only permitted in designated smoking areas.

10. Reporting Injuries, Property Damage or Near Miss Incidents Contractor employees must report all injuries to the Captain on Shift, or the designated on shift Captain. All injuries, property damage or near miss incidents that occur on the property will be investigated. The primary purpose of the investigation is to ensure no future harm to others by finding and implementing the appropriate preventative action.

11. Spills Response All contractors must report any spill (regardless of size) to the on shift Captain. Contain first, then report.

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12. Waste Contractor employees must ensure that all Fire Hall waste recycling programs are followed, and proper waste bins are used. Hazardous waste generated by Contractor employees during the course of the work being performed must be properly handled, stored and disposed according to the Environmental Protection Act and Heritage Pointe Fire Department Policies. You are responsible for the proper waste disposal method for the type(s) of waste generated. Foothills County will require proof from the Contractor that any waste which was generated from the completion of contracted work on site was disposed in the manner originally indicated in Pre-Qualification documentation.

13. Lockout/Tag out Procedures All contractors must use proper Lockout/Tag out procedures that comply with all of the requirements and Policy. Proof of training is required prior to starting work. Any violation of the required Lockout/Tag out procedures will result in immediate removal from the property. All Contractor employees must ensure that ALL potential energy sources are disconnected, locked and tagged PRIOR to performing any type of "hands-on" work. These energy sources may include hydraulics, natural gas, compressed air, steam, electrical, mechanical tension and/or gravity. (Zero energy). All contractors will follow all of Foothills Fire Department Lockout/Tag out procedures.

14. Emergency Action Planning Emergency situations may include injury to personnel, fire, explosion, flood, severe weather and bomb threats.

Basic procedures you need to know: 1. Fire/Evacuation signal – fire alarm. 2. Primary emergency exits and alternate exits from your work area- Ask the on shift Captain 3. Your designated collection area (Muster station), in the event of an emergency – north car park

First aid procedures including: (a) Emergency medical telephone number 9-911 (c) Location of eyewash stations and shower stations.

When the Fire Alarm Sounds: 1. Immediately put any equipment down in a safe place. 2. Switch off all machinery and equipment if you have immediate access to the on/off switch. 3. Proceed to the nearest available fire exit and leave the building. 4. Move as far away from the building as possible and collect in an orderly fashion at the designated marshaling area then report to the Captain on shift.

Designated Collection Areas (Muster Points): car parks Do not: 1. Continue working 2. Remain in the building for any reason 3. Re-enter the building without the direction from the Captain on shift 4. Smoke once you have exited the building, as the alarm may have been sounded for a natural gas leak

Page 312 5. Leave the site until you have been accounted for by a member of the Fire Hall

UPON DISCOVERY OF FIRE PROCEDURES IN CASE OF FIRE • Leave fire area immediately and close doors • Sound fire alarm • Call Fire Department at 9-911 • Leave building via designated route and door • Report to the Captain on shift

Heritage Pointe Fire Station, 226115 2nd Avenue East, Heritage Pointe

REMAIN CALM This building is equipped with fire alarm system. The fire alarm system is to be activated to alert the other occupants of the emergency and to put into operation the approved Emergency Action Plan. Emergency services are contacted by dialing 9-911 - Give the correct address and the exact location of the emergency problem.

15. Fire Extinguishers Contractors will be required to become familiar with the locations and the type of fire extinguishers located within the Fire Hall. The use of the fire extinguishers will be for emergency use only. Contractors are not fire fighters but may extinguish a minor fire to prevent the spreading of the flames, provided the contractor employees are familiar with the use of a fire extinguisher. Contractors are required to equip all their company vehicles and powered equipment with appropriate fire extinguishing equipment and know how to operate it.

16. Personal Protective Equipment (P.P.E.)

a. Eye Protection Appropriate Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approved eye protection must be worn when performing work where the risk is identified by hazard assessment. The following tasks require eye protection: Hot work, hammering, chiseling, grinding and working with ANY type of chemical.

b. Foot protection must meet Canadian Standard Association CSA standard for steel toed boots or shoes. CSA approved foot protection must be worn by all Contractors while on site. Foot protection must be in good condition and have a tread that has not worn smooth.

17. Hygiene Practices

1. There is no smoking within the Fire Hall.

2. Before starting work, you must ensure the work that you will be doing will not have an impact on Fire Department emergency activities and/or emergency equipment unless prior authorization has been given.

3. All Contractors must immediately report lost items to the on-shift Captain.

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4. Keep all work areas neat and tidy; clean up the area as you work and after you are finished working.

18. Horseplay Any contractor or worker who engages in any form of horseplay is in direct violation of Heritage Pointe Fire Department policy. These activities can lead to injury or property damage and will not be tolerated. This will result in immediate removal from the property.

19. Housekeeping/Job Site Clean-Up Housekeeping hazards are a MAJOR contributor to workplace accidents. Debris and material make other hazards difficult to see which can lead to slipping, falling or tripping. The following steps must be taken to ensure a safe worksite: 1. Keep access routes to work areas clear & clean. 2. Store materials, so that they do not interfere with work in progress. 3. Clean up waste as work proceeds. Do not let it build up. 4. On roof areas, secure loose or light materials against the wind. 5. Pick up tools and stockpile surplus material. 6. Never throw tools or other material 7. Dispose of packaging materials as soon as supplies are unwrapped. 8. Clean up as you go

No job is complete until all guards and safety devices are in place and operable. The Contractor must clean work areas before the end of each workday. All materials are to be removed or properly stored.

20. Working at Height. The 4 Foot Rule Where a worker is exposed to the hazard of falling and the surface to which they may fall is more than 4 feet above ground level or work floor, or within 10 feet of an edge of a roof or floor opening a fall arrest or safety line must be used. Whatever system is used it must be adequately secured to a fixed support such that a worker cannot fall freely for more than 1.5 meters. A harness must also be worn when entering a silo, bin, hopper, structure, container or anything where rescue is difficult.

A harness must be worn, and you must be tied off when using a lift of any kind. There are no exceptions to these rules.

21. Ladder Safety 1. Always use the proper ladder for the job 2. Set the ladder one foot out for every three feet up. 3. Secure the top of the ladder. 4. Clean off your boot soles before climbing. 5. Always maintain 3-points of contact -- two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand. 6. Face the ladder. 7. Keep your body between the side rails. 8. Keep the ladder 7 meters away from power lines. 9. Do not lean out beyond the side rails.

Page 314 10. Do not carry tools or equipment while climbing. 11. On an extension ladder, stand no higher than the fourth rung from the top. 12. On a step ladder, stand no higher than the second step from the top. 13. Never straddle the space between a ladder and another point.

22. Compressed Gas Cylinders Contractors must ensure all compressed gas cylinders are properly secured in the upright position, capped or when in use properly regulated for the task. All chemicals will be approved through the chemical entry process and properly identified prior to being brought onto the property.

23. Chemical Leak Procedures In the event of a chemical leak or spill, contain the spill and clean up in accordance with MSDS for the material. Contact the shift Captain immediately the situation allows.

Remember contain, and then call.

24. Electrical Safety Contractors are required to make sure all electrical equipment is properly grounded and in good serviceable repair. Hand tools or equipment found with frayed cords or are missing a ground prong, must not be brought onto the site, failure to comply with this rule will result in immediate dismissal from the site.

Fire Chief ______

Page 315 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0079 Occupational Health and Safety Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy shall be to specify the minimum requirements for the occupational health and safety program for the Foothills Fire Department. Nothing in this policy shall restrict from exceeding these minimum requirements.

RESPONSIBILITY: The occupational health and safety program is a line responsibility that starts with each employee and follows up through the chain of command. Foothills County safety department will be responsible for administering the program. The Health and Safety Committee will conduct research, develop recommendations and review matters pertaining to occupational health and safety within the Fire Department.

POLICY: The Foothills Fire Department is committed to providing a work environment in a manner that will ensure the safety of employees, and the community served. It is the policy of the Foothills Fire Department to conduct all operations in a manner that provides the highest level of health and safety for all members. Activities that are employed to protect life and/or property shall be recognized as inherent risk to the safety of members, and actions shall be taken to reduce or avoid these risks. The prevention of accidents, injuries and occupational illnesses is a primary goal of the Foothills Fire Department, and all personnel shall conduct their activities according

PROCEDURES: Laws, Codes, and Standards. The policy of the Foothills Fire Department is to follow such recognized standards, but not limited to the applicable OSHA regulations, ANSI standards and NFPA 1500 Standard.

Page 316

Records Safety and accident records will be maintained for analysis to identify and correct potential safety problems and to support ongoing Foothills Fire Department safety program.

Accident Prevention Fire Department Standard Operating Procedures and Guidelines along with Training Plans have applicable health and safety procedures incorporated into them. Activities that are employed to protect life and/or property shall be recognized as inherent risk to the safety of members, and actions shall be taken to reduce or avoid these risks. Pertinent or stand-a-lone safety procedures could be required for emergency operations.

Members are encouraged to report health and safety hazards or suggestions by reporting them to their supervisor or the Health and Safety Suggestion Report Form. Any imminent hazard shall be reported immediately.

Accident Investigation, Procedures and Reviews All accidents (vehicle, equipment and personnel) are to be reported immediately to the Shift Captain, who will pass on the information to the Chief and in his absences, the On Call Duty Officer. An Officer(s) will respond to the scene if none are present to start gathering information about the incident. Chief Staff will be notified after the appropriate emergency response is dispatched, if the accident is serious or a fatality.

The Chief will review all accident reports and send a copy to the Health and Safety Committee for recommendations of prevention and or reoccurrence. The recommendations are sent back through the Health/Safety Officer to the Chief for his consideration and action.

Apparatus and Equipment To ensure safety standards of apparatus and equipment specifications for purchase are reviewed for compliance with applicable safety standards. The sponsor of the purchase order and or Training Officer may do the review as part of the selection process. Purchasing through the joint purchasing cooperatives will have been previously reviewed for compliance with applicable health and safety standards.

Page 317 Facility Inspection Station inspections will be done every month by the station officer along with station personal and documented on an inspection form. Officers will do an inspection the first two months of the quarter and Senior Firefighters will do the inspection the last month of the quarter. The Chief will do a yearly inspection. All degrading or potential degrading conditions, hazards, or potential hazards are to be reported. The monthly inspections are to be sent to the Health & Safety Officer.

Health and Fitness Workout facilities are available to all employees.

Infection Control Established guidelines and procedure are in order to prevent contamination of personnel and patients from infectious diseases that employees may encounter in their workplace. All exposures and needle sticks are to be reported to the Captain.

Critical Incident Stress Management Employees that have been part of a significant traumatic event have access to a critical incident stress debriefing.

Post-Incident Analysis/Risk Management To ensure that health and safety issues during an event are addressed and/or corrective actions developed, a critique of incidents will be held. Lessons learned from the critiques will be shared during Officers meetings and training sessions.

Data Analysis/Risk Management Safety Department shall maintain records of all accidents, occupational injuries, illnesses exposures and deaths. The health and safety officer shall analyze health and safety hazards from inspections, injury and incidents reports. The analysis will be presented to the Health and Safety Committee for development of corrective actions to mitigate the hazards.

Fire Chief ______

Page 318 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0107 Lockout Tagout Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE: This procedure establishes the minimum requirements for the lockout of energy isolating devices whenever maintenance or servicing is done on machines or equipment. It shall be used to ensure that the machine or equipment is stopped, isolated from all potentially hazardous energy sources and locked out before employees perform any servicing or maintenance where the unexpected energizing or start-up of the machine or equipment or release of stored energy could cause injury.

POLICY: In the event an Officer in charge determines that a mechanical system, e.g. water, electrical, or apparatus, needs to be shut down for maintenance repair, a lock out, do-not-use tag will be attached to the main control valve, circuit breaker, or ignition switch of the equipment being taken out of service. The tag shall be marked as to the reason such equipment is shutdown, the time and date, and be signed by the Officer making the decision to shut down the equipment.

NO EQUIPMENT WHICH IS CONNECTED TO: WATER, ELECTRICITY, OR IS PART OF ANY MOVING MACHINERY WILL BE REPAIRED UNTIL A LOCK OUT, DO-NOT-USE TAG IS ATTACHED TO ITS MAIN METHOD OF CONTROL.

Note: Foothills Fire Department Personnel shall not attempt to pull an outdoor electric meter.

Fire Chief ______

Page 319 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0113 Fire Investigation Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose

The objective of this section is to establish a policy that will allow for effective and thorough fire investigations while at the same time reduce operational costs.

1. To use the on-duty firefighter to determine the origin and cause of all fires. The Fire Investigator, when available, or designated On-Duty Firefighter - Investigator shall be used to determine the origin and cause of any suspicious fire incident.

2. To use the following criteria to determine when a Fire Investigator is needed for cause determination and documentation of a fire incident. Fire involving one or more of the following criteria:

a. Loss of $1 or more involving product malfunction other than obvious operator error that may result in a suit or legal action of some kind.

b. Serious injury to a firefighter that requires hospital care.

c. Fatality of either a firefighter or civilian.

d. Determination by the On-Duty Firefighter that adequate circumstances exist to indicate a suspicious origin where the fire loss exceeds $1.

e. Definitely incendiary in origin.

f. Acts of suspected fire play involving juveniles that cannot be documented by the On-Duty Firefighter on the scene at the time of occurrence.

g. If the On-Duty Firefighter is unable to determine origin and cause after exhausting all available resources and amount of loss exceeds $1.

Page 320 3. To provide follow-up investigation conducted by the On-Duty Firefighter or Fire Investigator during normal working hours when applicable.

4. To ensure that Off-Duty Investigators are hired as described in the SOP.

5. To maintain control of any suspicious or incendiary fire scene by the Foothills Fire Department until an Investigator arrives at the scene. The On-Duty Firefighter shall assign and coordinate the proper utilization of Firefighters under his charge until relieved by the Investigator or designee.

Assigning Off-Duty Firefighter/Investigators when required will be done as described in the SOP. If no Fire Investigators are available, mutual aid shall be requested.

It shall be the primary responsibility of the On-Duty Firefighter to investigate and determine the origin and cause of all fires.

It shall be the responsibility of the Incident Commander to maintain control of the property and evidence until the arrival of an Investigator on the scene of all suspicious or incendiary fires.

It shall be the responsibility of the Fire Investigator to investigate all fires that have been determined to be suspicious or incendiary.

It shall be the responsibility of the Fire Chief or designee to assign off-duty Firefighter/Investigators when required.

Fire Chief ______

Page 321

FIRE DEPARTMENT SOP’S OPERATIONAL

Page 322

Supplementary Training Manual Commented [AM1]: Is this to large? To many definitions make Rescue Boatit more Operations like course material?????

Page 323 Rescue Boat Operations

Document Revision Log

Subject Matter Expert, Revision Instructional Designer, Number Revision Date and Editor Description 1

2

3

4

5

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Page 325 Rescue Boat Operations

Table of Contents

Introduction ...... 1

Rationale ...... 1 Learning Objectives ...... 1 Scope of this Manual ...... 2 External Resources...... 2

Regulating Bodies ...... 3

Overview of Regulating Bodies ...... 3

Basic Rescue Boat Design ...... 4

Types of Rescue Boats ...... 4 Jet Boats ...... 4 Inflatable Boats ...... 4 Rescue Boat Design ...... 5

Transporting a Rescue Boat ...... 7

Pulling a Rescue Boat on a Trailer ...... 7 Adjusting Side Mirrors ...... 7 Accelerating ...... 8 Stopping ...... 9 Controlling Sway ...... 10 Forward Cornering ...... 10 Backing Up ...... 11 Reversing in a Straight Line ...... 11 Reverse Cornering ...... 12 Reversing at Night ...... 13 Reversing into the Station ...... 13 Tips for Backing Up ...... 14 Spotting the Apparatus ...... 15 Move Straight Back ...... 16 Stop ...... 16 Move to the Left ...... 17 Move to the Right ...... 17 Slow Down ...... 18 Getting Closer ...... 18

Operating a Rescue Boat ...... 19

Boat Operator's Responsibilities and Qualifications ...... 19 Navigating ...... 20 The Directions of a River ...... 20 Navigation Rules ...... 21 Right-of-Way Rules ...... 21 Common Sense Navigation Rules ...... 21 Starting a Rescue Boat ...... 22 Launching a Rescue Boat ...... 22

Page 326 Rescue Boat Operations

Boating ...... 22 Maintaining a Safe Driving Stance ...... 22 Departing a Dock...... 23 Getting On-Step ...... 23 Controlling Speed and Direction ...... 23 Performing an Emergency Stop ...... 24 Ferrying ...... 24 Moving In and Out of an Eddy ...... 24 Pivoting a Rescue Boat ...... 25 Placing a Rescue Boat against an Immovable Object ...... 25 Docking ...... 26 Shutting Down a Rescue Boat ...... 26 Loading a Rescue Boat ...... 26

Picking Up Victims...... 29

Maintaining Safety ...... 29 Conscious Victim Able to Assist the Rescuer ...... 29 Victim Unable to Assist the Rescuer ...... 31

Towing ...... 32

Maintaining Safety ...... 32 Deciding Whether to Tow ...... 32 Assessing the Boat in Distress ...... 33 Developing a Plan of Action ...... 33 Before Connecting ...... 33 Starting the Tow ...... 34 Towing Methods ...... 34 Towing Bridle Method ...... 35 In-Line/Convoy Method ...... 35 Y Formation Method ...... 36 V Formation Method ...... 36 Shoulder Method ...... 37

Reading a River ...... 38

How to Read a River ...... 38 Performing a Risk Analysis ...... 38 Lifting Your Vision ...... 38 Heading Upstream First ...... 39 Searching for Hazards ...... 39 Finding a Point of Elevation ...... 39 Memorizing River Channels ...... 39 What to Look For ...... 40 Water Hydrology...... 40 Characteristics of Moving Water ...... 40 Powerful ...... 41 Relentless ...... 41 Predictable ...... 41 Still Water ...... 41 Swiftwater ...... 42

Page 327 Rescue Boat Operations

International Scale of River Difficulty ...... 42 River Features ...... 43 Banks ...... 43 Islands ...... 44 Tributary Streams ...... 45 Mudbars and Sandbars ...... 45 Floating Hazards ...... 45 River Conditions ...... 47 Turbidity ...... 48 River Currents ...... 48 Upstream Flow ...... 49 Eddies ...... 49 Hydraulics ...... 50 Holes ...... 51 Pillows or Boils ...... 51 Horizontal Line ...... 51 Upstream and Downstream V ...... 52 River Waves ...... 52 Standing Waves ...... 53 Small Ripples ...... 53 River Obstructions ...... 53 Visible Rocks and Bridge Abutments ...... 53 Sweepers and Strainers ...... 55 Environmental Considerations ...... 56

Index ...... 57

Page 328

Rescue Boat Operations

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Page 329 Pg. 1 Rescue Boat Operations

Introduction

Rationale

Why is it important for you to learn this material?

Piloting a rescue boat can be difficult for even the most experienced boat operator. Rescue boats are powerful watercrafts, designed to maneuver in shallow water. They can be loud, hard to handle, and overwhelming for an untrained boat operator. A thorough understanding of rescue boat construction and design helps ensure that rescue attempts are successful. All rescue boat operators and aquatic rescuers eventually have to deal with a boating accident or assist someone in the water by using a boat. The screams of a victim, bad weather conditions, or fast moving water currents may lead a boat operator to make a fatal mistake. Experience, knowledge, and training are essential factors in any successful boat rescue. Rescue boat operators need to develop skills specific for the environments in which they will be operating the watercraft. They need boat handling and boat rescue skills, as well as the ability to read the water accurately. Safety is an ever present concern. Boat operators must remain diligent about maintaining safety through varying conditions.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this training, you will be able to:

1. Identify the regulating bodies that govern rescue boat operation.

2. Describe the basic design of rescue boats used by FFD. (NFPA 1006 5.4.2)

3. Transport a rescue boat to and from the water. (NFPA 1006 11.1.8)

4. Operate a rescue boat on the water. (NFPA 1006 11.1.8)

5. Safely pick up victims in the water. (NFPA 1006 5.3.2, 11.1.8)

6. Tow a watercraft in distress.

7. Identify and analyze river risks. (NFPA 11.1.8, 11.2.2)

Page 330 Pg. 2 Rescue Boat Operations

Scope of this Manual

This manual describes rescue boat construction and outlines boat operations procedures. It also explains how to read a river. Although it is primarily of interest to boat operators, it is also required reading for all aquatic rescuers. This manual does not include procedures on operating the marine radio system or technical details specific to the type of rescue boat. Refer to the following table for information on related topics that are not covered in this manual.

External Resources Lifesaving Society of Canada. (n.d.) Canadian Lifesaving Manual Vol. 3. Ottawa: Author.

Slim, R. (1997). Swiftwater Rescue. Richmond, Virginia: Arwood Printing Co.

Smith, D., & Smith, S. (1994). Water Rescue: Basic Skills for Emergency Responders. St. Louis, Missouri: Mosby Year Book, Inc. Trinque, E. (1997). Boat Rescue for First Responders. Ottawa: The Lifesaving Society. Walbridge, C., & Sundmacher, W. (1995). Whitewater Rescue Manual: New Techniques for Canoeists, Kayakers, and Rafters. Camden, New Jersey: Ragged Mountain Press.

Acknowledgement

City of Calgary and the Calgary Fire Department. Aug 26, 2011. Subject Matter Expert, Instructional Designer and Editor

Shea Tritter (SME) Derek Arthurs (SME) Angie Parkes (ID) Debbie Bateman (ED)

Page 331 Pg. 3 Rescue Boat Operations

Regulating Bodies

Upon completion of this training, you will be able to: 1. Identify the regulating bodies that govern rescue boat operation.

Overview of Regulating Bodies

Boat operator responsibilities are set in place by regulating bodies, such as the following:

• Canadian Coast Guard – small vessel regulations and pleasure craft operations

• Criminal Code of Canada – operating a boat while impaired, dangerous operation of a boat, towing behind a boat, interfering with a marine signal, operating a boat that is not seaworthy, and offering assistance when involved in an accident

• Transport Canada – capacity plate

• Customs Service Canada – registered powerboat

• Local Authority Contraventions Act – safety equipment, not obeying the speed limits, and so on

• Canada Shipping Act – international and federal laws

Page 332

Pg. 4 Rescue Boat Operations

Basic Rescue Boat Design

Upon completion of this training, you will be able to: 1. Describe the basic design of rescue boats used by FFD: a. Describe the types of rescue boats. b. Identify the basic components of rescue boats and explain the function of each component.

Types of Rescue Boats

Jet Boats

It takes the correct amount of power and the right design to create a jet boat that runs well in shallow water. Jet boats are designed to plane on top of the water, and float as shallow as possible when shut down. The size and shape of the hull is very important for proper boat handling. The design allows water, and not air, to enter the jet drive. If air is introduced into the jet drive, water slippage occurs, which creates a loss of power. Aluminum is the material of choice. It is light, tough, and easy to form into the proper configuration. Also, aluminum is easy to repair, and resistant to tarnishing. The bottom thickness can range from 1/16 to 1/4 inch. Whereas a lighter gauge material is more easily damaged, a heavier gauge can be a weight problem.

Inflatable Boats

An inflatable boat is designed with several features in mind. Its construction ensures that the boat does not sink. There are separate pontoon chambers so that if one chamber deflates, the whole craft does not sink. Also, the inflatable boat has a rigid hull so that the boat remains more stable when passengers move. With the current design, rescuers are closer to the water surface and can access less restrictive areas. The inflatable boats are constructed of vulcanized rubber, which makes them easy to repair and maneuver. They are also more easily seen by other boaters.

NOTE: Rescuers must keep their inflatable boats as light as possible to ensure proper boat handling and boat operator safety.

Page 333 Pg. 5 Rescue Boat Operations

Rescue Boat Design

Figure 1: Rescue Boat Design © 2011 The City of Calgary

Rescue boats may have a flat bottom or a V bottom. A flat bottom boat operates in shallow water, but may slide on turns. The standard V-bottom jet boat design is 6 to 12 degrees. This design enhances jet boat performance and handling. Hull design features are as follows:

• Keel – The keel is the center ridge on the bottom of the boat. Its primary function is to make the boat track in a straight line.

• Strakes – The strakes are the ridges on the bottom of the boat, located on both sides of the keel. They funnel water into the jet intake and aid in boat tracking.

• Chines – The chines are the ridges of the boat, located where the side of the boat meets the bottom of the boat. They provide sharp edges and aid in boat tracking.

• Transom – The motor is mounted onto the transom and the transom is attached to the hull. The transom takes the weight of the motor without capsizing the boat.

• Gunwale – The gunwale is the top ridge around the boat.

• Reverse Clam – This part of the boat diverts the jet stream in the forward and down direction.

• Stream Shaper – This part of the boat gives the jet stream its final shape and size as it leaves the jet lag.

• Intake Grate – The intake grate helps keep weeds, rocks, sticks, and other debris out of the jet drive.

• Trim Tabs – Trim tabs adjust the planing profile of the boat.

• Stator – The stator removes the turbulence in the jet stream created by the impeller.

Page 334 Pg. 6 Rescue Boat Operations

• Impeller/Housing Impeller – The impeller pressurizes and increases the speed of the water entering and exiting the jet leg.

• Steering Nozzle – The steering nozzle changes the direction of the jet stream in order to steer the boat left or right.

Page 335 Pg. 7 Rescue Boat Operations

Transporting a Rescue Boat

Upon completion of this training, you will be able to: 1. Transport a rescue boat to and from the water: a. Load a rescue boat onto a trailer. b. Pull a rescue boat on a trailer. c. Launch a rescue boat from a trailer.

Pulling a Rescue Boat on a Trailer

The driver of the truck/trailer combination is legally responsible for the way the unit is attached to the tow vehicle. However, on many calls the driver may not be the one who actually hooks the trailer onto the truck. Therefore, before leaving the station, the driver should ensure that everything has been properly connected. In addition, the driver should be aware of how towing a trailer affects vehicle performance. The following are some of the performance issues that may arise when towing a rescue boat:

• reduced acceleration

• longer stopping distances

• short-cutting turns

Adjusting Side Mirrors

Properly adjusted and clean side mirrors help eliminate a lot of trailering problems.

Figure 2: Side Mirror © 2011 The City of Calgary

Page 336 Pg. 8 Rescue Boat Operations

Begin by making sure the mirrors are clean. Watermarks obscure vision.

The side mirrors are large and flat. They provide a true perspective when judging distance. Set the flat mirrors so that you can see the trailer along the first inch of the mirror. Reserve the remainder of the mirror for rear-distance viewing. If possible, adjust the mirror so that you can see the rear trailer wheels in the lower portion of the mirror. The convex mirrors are for the big picture, or in other words, a wide field of vision. These mirrors should show the trailer throughout all turning radiuses, and obstacles that would be entirely invisible in the flat mirror.

Figure 3: Convex Mirror © 2011 The City of Calgary

Accelerating Regardless of the speed, when you are towing a trailer it will take at least twice as long to pass another vehicle. The extra weight and longer acceleration time also affect how you should negotiate traffic. Be aware of the increased length of the vehicle when changing lanes or passing. Watch the mirrors closely to make sure there's enough distance to make a lane change safely.

Page 337 Pg. 9 Rescue Boat Operations

Stopping

Even with trailer brakes, the added trailer weight increases the distance it takes to stop. The distance it takes a combined unit to stop depends on several variables including:

• condition of the brakes

• available traction

• total weight of the combined unit

• travelling speed

The amount of time it takes to stop depends on:

• Perception Time – the point at which the driver realizes he or she should stop

• Reaction Time – the time between deciding to stop and actually putting a foot on the brake

• Lag Time – the time it takes for the brakes to actually apply

• Braking Time – the time it takes the vehicle to stop

To decrease stopping time, you can:

• Look farther down the road.

• Allow plenty of distance between the FFD vehicle and the vehicle ahead. Leave the equivalent of one length of the truck/trailer combination for every 10 km/hr. For conditions that are less than ideal, increase these distances.

Figure 4: Stopping Distances © 2011 The City of Calgary

Page 338 Pg. 10 Rescue Boat Operations

Controlling Sway

Trailer sway is one of the most serious events that can occur while towing. In

a worst case scenario, trailer sway can cause the loss of vehicular control. The following factors cause trailer sway:

• excessive speed

• a trailer attitude that is not level

• wind gusts

• passing vehicles (especially large trucks)

• quick turns of the steering wheel

If the trailer begins to sway:

1. Slow down and avoid using the vehicle's brakes.

2. Turn the steering wheel as little as possible because counter-steering can actually increase the sway. 3. If the trailer has electric brakes, use the hand control to apply them.

4. When it is safe to do so, stop the vehicle and attempt to resolve the problem. Check the tire pressure, sway control arms, spring bars, and wheel lug nuts. Look for weight shifts of the cargo and/or any mechanical failures.

Forward Cornering

Figure 5: Forward Cornering © 2011 The City of Calgary

If for some reason the rear axles cannot steer during a turning maneuver, the trailer tires will follow a different path than the steering tires. This is referred to as off-tracking. The trailer follows a wider turning circle when rounding sharp corners.

Page 339 Pg. 11 Rescue Boat Operations

When making a right turn, keep the tow vehicle toward the center of the curve so that the trailer wheels don't cut the curve short. When turning left, keep the tow vehicle on the outside of the curve so the trailer doesn't cut into the opposite lane of traffic.

Backing Up

Of all the maneuvers performed when trailering, backing up tends to cause the most difficulty, but it doesn't have to. When backing up, the trailer goes in the opposite direction of the tow vehicle.

Figure 6: Backing Up © 2011 The City of Calgary

To control the trailer when backing up:

1. Place one hand at the bottom of the steering wheel.

2. To turn the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right.

3. To turn the trailer to the left, move your hand to the left.

4. Slowly back up and move the steering wheel in small increments to maintain control.

Reversing in a Straight Line

Reverse slowly and monitor both mirrors. When more of the trailer starts to appear in one mirror, steer towards the other mirror. Continually glance back and forth as you make small corrections.

Page 340 Pg. 12 Rescue Boat Operations

Reverse Cornering

Figure 7: Using a Spotter © 2011 The City of Calgary

As the truck and trailer unit backs up, the natural tendency of the spotter is

to follow the trailer, but this results in loss of eye contact with the driver. To help avoid this, the spotter aligns with the left-rear corner of the truck, and observes the trailer's progress from a safe distance. If the spotter is unsure of what he or she has observed, the spotter stops the driver, walks back, and takes a look. When satisfied that everything is okay, the spotter returns to the original position and continues to spot the vehicle from the left -rear corner of the vehicle. Once the vehicle is realigned, the spotter changes his or her position to the back of the trailer.

Figure 8: Reverse Cornering © 2011 The City of Calgary

To turn a corner in reverse:

1. Start with the unit as straight as possible.

2. While watching the trailer, reverse slowly, turning the wheel in the direction the trailer needs to move.

3. As the trailer starts to turn, begin to straighten the tow vehicle to maintain control. If you wait too long to straighten the vehicle, the trailer will jackknife.

Page 341 Pg. 13 Rescue Boat Operations

Figure 9: Turning a Corner in Reverse © 2011 The City of Calgary

4. Continue to turn the corner, keeping an eye on where the trailer is going in case you need to make adjustments.

Reversing at Night

When backing up at night, direct the rig or boat floodlights onto the spotter. Another option is for the spotter to hold onto flashlights while doing the hand signals.

Reversing into the Station

Figure 10: Reversing into the Station © 2011 The City of Calgary

Page 342 Pg. 14 Rescue Boat Operations

When bringing the apparatus into the station, the change in lighting from outdoors to indoors can severely affect the driver's ability to see the spotter's hand signals. For this reason, spotters should stand outside the apparatus door to maintain visual contact with the driver. If possible, utilize another spotter behind the trailer as a safety.

Once the driver travels into the shade of the building, the spotter can go to the back of the trailer and continue giving directions from that location.

Tips for Backing Up

1. Get out of the truck and pre-plan the route you will follow. It's easier to back into an area that has been scouted first. 2. Leave plenty of room to back up. Try to align the truck and trailer unit before backing up.

3. If you have to turn while backing up, try to back up to the driver's side. That way you will be using the driver's side mirror, which will allow for a better view of the trailer's movements. 4. If the trailer heads in the wrong direction too abruptly, stop, pull ahead, and try again. This is much easier than trying to correct the mistake, which leads to a zigzag pattern. 5. Most accidents that occur during backing up happen on the front fender of the truck, not the rear of the trailer. When the final swing is being made, watch where the nose of the truck is swinging. 6. As you back around a corner, focus on the rear trailer wheels for positioning. This is the turning access for the trailer.

7. If there is any doubt about where something is (or isn't) behind the truck and trailer, get out and look. 8. Roll the window down, and turn the AM/FM and/or mobile radio down. This allows for better verbal communication with the spotter.

9. Finally, be patient. This is NOT a skill that a person learns overnight! In fact, many drivers spend YEARS developing their backing-up skills. It's a learning process that never ends.

Page 343 Pg. 15 Rescue Boat Operations

Spotting the Apparatus

When backing up any FFD apparatus, a spotter must be present. The role of the spotter is to:

• Help the driver avoid any unseen obstacles.

• Control traffic.

• Provide clear and concise directions via hand signals and/or voice prompts.

• Always remain visible to the driver.

Drivers and spotters are a team and working together facilitates proper backing up protocols in all FFD operations. Therefore, both the driver and the spotter should know, and be able to communicate the following hand signals:

• move straight back

• stop

• move to the left

• move to the right

• slow down

• getting closer

Page 344 Pg. 16 Rescue Boat Operations

Move Straight Back Stop

Figure 11: Move Straight Back Figure 12: Stop © 2011 The City of Calgary © 2011 The City of Calgary

1. Start with raising both arms in front 1. Start with extending both arms of you, bending elbows at a 90 horizontally outwards at your degree angle and aiming hands sides. upwards. 2. Bring both arms together 2. Keeping arms raised in this above and in front of your head position, move forearms forward to form an X. and backward until the apparatus is in the desired position.

NOTE: If your hands drop down in front of your body, they may become camouflaged and the driver may misinterpret a command.

Page 345 Pg. 17 Rescue Boat Operations

Move to the Left Move to the Right

Figure 13: Move to the Left Figure 14: Move to the Right © 2011 The City of Calgary © 2011 The City of Calgary

1. Raise right arm above shoulder 1. Raise left arm above with elbow pointing at apparatus. shoulder with elbow pointing

2. Point left arm horizontally to at apparatus. 2. Point right arm horizontally to the left. 3. Move raised right forearm towards the right. you, back and forth, until driver and 3. Move raised left forearm apparatus are in desired position. towards you, back and forth, until driver and apparatus are in desired position.

Page 346 Pg. 18 Rescue Boat Operations

Slow Down Getting Closer

Figure 15: Slow Down Figure 16: Getting Closer © 2011 The City of Calgary © 2011 The City of Calgary

1. Start with both elbows placed at 1. Start with both arms raised your sides next to your waist, above your shoulders. forearms pointing slightly 2. Slowly bring arms closer outwards, palms facing down. together as apparatus nears 2. Move your forearms up and down. its destination. This motion

3. Continue this movement until the indicates to the driver the driver slows down to the desired amount of space remaining between the back of the rate of speed. apparatus and an obstacle.

NOTE: If you’re not using batons, 3. Form the stop command by make sure your palms are bringing both arms together facing the ground. to form an X above and in front of your head.

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Operating a Rescue Boat

Upon completion of this training, you will be able to: 1. Operate a rescue boat on the water: a. Communicate a victim's location on moving water. (NFPA 1006 11.1.3) b. Safely start, drive, and stop a rescue boat. c. Adhere to appropriate navigation rules. (NFPA 1006 11.1.10) d. Maneuver a rescue boat in and out of an eddy. e. Pivot a rescue boat.

Boat Operator's Responsibilities and Qualifications

Rescue boat operators are responsible for the operation and safety of the craft and those around it. They must be able to perform all basic operation safely and efficiently. Expert boat operators log hundreds of hours and are faced with new and challenging situations on a regular basis. Through continual practice, operators develop and maintain their boat handling skills. Being prepared can save the lives of the operator, passengers, and victims. Never take boat operation for granted. Boat operators need both a Raven Rescue Boat Operator certificate and a Pleasure Craft Operator card. These two items identify the following operator responsibilities:

• Safely operate the boat.

• Help boats in distress.

• Inform people of where and how to put on PFDs or lifejackets. Ensure that they fasten all buckles and zippers.

• Fuel the boat.

• Do not allow untrained personnel to operate the boat.

• Respond appropriately in the event of an emergency or accident.

• Conform to all relevant codes, acts and regulations (Canadian Boating Rules).

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Navigating

The Directions of a River

A river has four directions:

• upstream

• downstream

• river-right

• river-left

Directions for right and left are always given from the perspective of a person looking downstream. The expressions, river-right and river-left, are used to indicate this perspective. By creating a grid out of the four directions, personnel can more accurately and effectively communicate the victim's location. (For example, a victim's location could be described as river-right, downstream of the 14 Street bridge.)

Figure 17: The River's Four Directions © 2011 The City of Calgary

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Navigation Rules

There are two classes of navigation rules:

• right-of-way rules

• common sense navigation rules

Right-of-Way Rules

Right-of-way rules are intended to prevent collisions on the water. Never assume everyone knows these rules. To ensure safe boating, an operator should remember the following rules:

• All emergency boats have the right-of-way when responding and everyone must stay clear.

• Yield to large vessels with limited maneuverability.

• Yield to vessels engaged in fishing.

• Powerboats must yield to non-power boats such as paddleboats, sailboats, canoes, and sailboards.

• Vessels heading upstream must yield to vessels heading downstream.

• Follow the Canadian Coast Guard navigation rules.

Common Sense Navigation Rules

Common sense navigation rules are intended to create a mutual respect among boaters. To help achieve this, all FFD boat operators should remember the following:

• All operators are responsible for preventing collisions.

• Always proceed with caution.

• Always be in control of your boat's speed.

• Slow down, change direction, and stay well clear if is safe to do so.

• Aid those in need of help.

NOTE: Control the wake and wash of the boat. Be aware of swamping or capsizing other crafts, swimmers, and people who are fishing.

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Starting a Rescue Boat

1. Ensure that the boat plugs are in.

2. Ensure that everyone is wearing a PFD and the PFDs have been done up properly with all buckles and zippers fastened. Do not take the boat off the trailer until this has happened. 3. Turn on the battery.

4. Expel explosive fumes from the boat via the blower and open the engine compartment for 5 min. 5. Put the jet boat intake into the water.

6. Start the boat before unhooking it from the trailer.

CAUTION: Never unhook the boat from the trailer before the engine is started!

7. Before leaving the trailer, look upstream and downstream for any hazards.

8. Move the steering wheel back and forth to rock the boat off the trailer. This reduces high RPMs and prevents debris from being sucked into the jet intake. 9. Close the engine compartment and turn off the blower.

Launching a Rescue Boat

In order to ensure rescuer safety, always confirm that the boat will start before unhooking it from the trailer. Never start the boat until it is 1/3 in the water 1. Remove the stern trailer straps and vent the engine compartment for at least 5 min.

2. Back the boat down the ramp.

3. Place the boat trailer 1/3 of the way into the water and start the boat.

4. Unhook the boat from the trailer.

Boating

Maintaining a Safe Driving Stance

1. Wear eye protection.

2. Stand with your knees slightly bent.

3. Use one hand to operate the levers and leave the other hand on the steering wheel. 4. Focus your eyes well in advance (200 m) of where the boat is headed.

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Departing a Dock

1. Use proper boat startup procedures.

2. Slowly move the stern of the boat into deeper water.

3. Throttle up to keep the stern of the boat in the deep water.

4. Keep the power on while the second operator unties the boat and then boards the boat. 5. Look upstream and downstream for other boats or hazards.

Getting On-Step

1. Always maintain a safe boat attitude when running a river.

2. Move the throttle without cavitation.

3. Check for shallow water, hazards, and other boating traffic.

4. Avoid mushing, or in other words cruising at low speed, because it keeps the stern deep in the water. 5. Position the boat on-step. When the boat's attitude is on-step, the bow is low and level with the water's surface. 6. Once the boat is on-step, fine tune the throttle to slow down the RPMs.

7. If it is taking an unusually long time to bring the boat on-step, try one or both of the following: a. Move as much weight to the front of the boat as possible.

b. Head downstream first to build speed.

Controlling Speed and Direction

Remember that without power, the steering does not work. To control the speed and direction of the boat, the power must remain on. Use the forward lever to proceed and the backward lever to reverse.

NOTE: During fine tuning, operate the lever from its base for ultimate control.

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Performing an Emergency Stop

An emergency stop enables you to maintain control while stopping quickly.

1. Ensure that the boat attitude is on-step.

2. Always warn passengers before stopping.

3. Ensure that the boat is in the deepest water.

4. The boat's direction can be upstream or downstream.

5. Throttle off.

6. Change the gear lever from forward to reverse.

7. Throttle on slowly and steadily.

8. Brace yourself.

NOTE: The boat can be pivoted when in reverse to move quickly away in the opposite direction.

Ferrying

This slow speed maneuver ensures safe movement laterally in and around stationary objects in the water. Ferrying is also used to safely move the boat from one shoreline to another. 1. Point the bow upstream.

2. Increase the power of the boat to keep the boat from moving downstream.

3. Angle the boat against the laminar flow for movement.

4. The steeper the angle, the more power that will be needed to maneuver.

NOTE: The purpose of reverse ferrying is to hold the boat midstream while other boats downstream move safely out of the way. It can also be used to manipulate the craft to avoid collisions with downstream hazards.

Moving In and Out of an Eddy

In order to move the boat safely and efficiently in the water, you must be able to move in and out of eddies. 1. Point the bow of the boat upstream.

2. Look for the eddy line and be aware of the water pulling the boat upstream. 3. Angle the bow of the boat into the eddy.

4. Keep the stern of the boat in the eddy line or slightly in the eddy.

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5. Watch out for debris in the upstream flow of water.

6. Look upstream and downstream before eddying out.

7. When eddying out, expose as much of the boat hull as possible to the laminar flow. This will assist in pivoting the boat faster.

NOTE: An eddy is the upstream flow of water. Eddies often contain debris.

Pivoting a Rescue Boat

You must be able to pivot the boat in order to keep it in the deep-water channel.

1. Throttle down.

2. Move the gearshift from forward or reverse.

3. Turn over the steering wheel.

4. Throttle on.

5. Keep the boat in the deep channel of water.

NOTE: Be aware of other boats and hazards.

Placing a Rescue Boat Against an Immovable Object

By placing a rescue boat against an immovable object, you can create a stable rescue platform from the rear of a bridge abutment, rock, or solid object in the river. 1. Point the bow upstream.

2. Drive the boat via the bow window, which is the portion of the boat located between the windshield and the bow tip. 3. Hold the control levers at the base for maximum control.

4. Throttle on slightly.

5. Slowly move into the hazard, keeping the boat under control.

6. Once on the hazard, keep the throttle up to maintain the boat against the hazard. 7. Move the boat along the hazard by throttling up and slowly moving the steering wheel.

NOTE: Once the boat is on the obstruction, keep it there until the rescue has been completed.

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Docking

1. Look for an area along the shore that is soft, has tie-off points, and is next to water that is deep enough to ensure proper boat functioning.

2. Point the bow of the boat upstream.

3. Approach the shore in the ferrying position.

4. Maintain a boat speed that is slightly faster than the current.

5. Be prepared to go into reverse to ease the boat onto the shore or dock.

6. When the bow window touches the shore or dock:

a. Once on shore, keep the steering wheel turned into the shore.

b. Throttle up to keep the stern of the boat in deep water.

c. Keep the power on while the second operator is tying off the boat.

NOTE: When tying off the boat, use an overhand slipknot with an overhand keeper knot.

Shutting Down a Rescue Boat It is not only important to shut down the boat safely, you must also leave it in such condition that it will be ready for the next rescue. 1. With the help of a second boat operator, guide the boat onto the trailer.

2. Keep the power on until the boat is completely hooked onto the trailer.

3. Shut down the boat.

4. Turn off the battery.

5. Pull out the boat plug and drain the boat of any water.

6. Put the boat plugs back in, so that the boat is ready to be used for the next rescue.

Loading a Rescue Boat 1. Back the trailer into the water until the LH&RH trailer slides are 2/3 submerged. 2. Slowly drive the boat onto the trailer. Power up the boat to the tongue of the trailer. 3. Hook the bow of the boat onto the trailer.

4. Use the boat motor and winch to haul the boat onto the trailer.

5. Hook the safety chain to the boat.

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6. Drain the boat. Remember to put the plugs back into the boat.

7. Hook the stern straps onto the trailer.

8. Place the throttle shift lever in full reverse position to protect the nozzle.

NOTE: Before transporting a rescue boat, always attach the stern strap, one bow strap, and one safety chain.

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Picking Up Victims

Upon completion of this training, you will be able to: 1. Safely pick up victims in the water.

Maintaining Safety

The boat operator must constantly evaluate the water depth, river hazards, and the safe shoreline when transporting a victim.

NOTE: If EMS, police, or bylaw personnel need to attend to the victim, they can be ferried to an appropriate shoreline. Do not overweight the boat.

Conscious Victim Able to Assist the Rescuer

Figure 19: Victim Pickup © 2011 The City of Calgary

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To pick up a conscious victim:

Boat Operator

1. Position the boat downstream of the victim with the bow facing upstream. 2. Place the boat into a ferrying attitude and off-step with no wake.

3. Set up a line of approach well in advance with the bow of the boat in line with the victim (200 m downstream). Boat Operator and Rescuer

4. Decide upon the shore to which the victim will be transported. The boat operator uses proper docking/shore procedures. Rescuer

5. Move to the stern on the side of the boat that the victim will be picked up on. Boat Operator

6. Clearly communicate the rescue plan to the victim.

7. Tell the victim to lie on his or her back with his or her feet pointing downstream to defend off the boat and other hazards.

8. Guide the boat so the victim is along the same side of the boat as the rescuer. Rescuer

9. Communicate to the boat operator when you have a firm grip on the victim. Boat Operator

10. Cut the throttle and prepare to shift into reverse. The boat must be travelling at the same speed as the victim and the current. Rescuer

11. Move the patient to the swim platform and aid the victim in exiting from the water. Grab the victim's wrist with one hand, thereby causing the victim to grab your wrist rather than your hand or fingers. With your other hand, grab the victim's clothing or PFD, and hold the victim's head out of the water.

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Victim Unable to Assist the Rescuer

To pick up a victim who is unable to assist:

Boat Operator

1. Position the boat downstream of the victim with the bow facing upstream. 2. Place the boat into a ferrying attitude and off-step with no wake.

3. Set up a line of approach well in advance with the bow of the boat in line with the victim (200 m downstream). Boat Operator and Rescuer

4. Decide upon the shore to which the victim will be transported. Use proper docking/shore procedures. Rescuer

5. Move to the stern on the side of the boat that the victim will be picked up on. Boat Operator

6. Clearly communicate the rescue plan to the victim.

7. Tell the victim to lie on his or her back with his or her feet pointing downstream to defend off the boat and other hazards.

8. Guide the boat so the victim is along the same side of the boat as the rescuer. Rescuer

9. Communicate to the boat operator when you have a firm grip on the victim. Boat Operator

10. Cut the throttle and prepare to shift into reverse. The boat must be travelling at the same speed as the victim and the current. Boat Operator and Rescuer

11. While the boat operator ferries the victim to shore, the rescuer holds the victim in the water next to the boat and away from the wash. Boat Operator

12. Use the proper docking/shore procedures.

13. Hold the stern of the boat in deep water, thereby creating a safe area for the rescuer to work.

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Towing

Upon completion of this training, you will be able to: 1. Tow a watercraft in distress.

Maintaining Safety

Situations arise in which a jet boat operator needs to tow another boat or be towed. Towing can be an extremely dangerous procedure if the system is improperly rigged. The forces generated by a vessel being towed can easily cause equipment failure and may even result in serious injury. In order to ensure a safe and reliable tow, FFD boat operators need to know how to evaluate whether a tow is required and perform a tow correctly using the best available methods.

Deciding Whether to Tow

Under the following circumstances, it may be a good decision to tow:

• Lives on the boat are threatened.

• The boat is drifting and may affect another boat's ability to navigate.

• The distressed craft is small enough to tow.

NOTE: If it is partially submerged, a lightweight boat may slowly drain as it is being towed.

Under any of the following circumstances, it would not be a good decision to tow:

• The boat has sunk (float first before towing).

• The boat is on fire.

• The towlines are worn or the cleats are broken.

• The boat in distress is more than 1.5 times larger than the towing boat.

• It is not an emergency.

• The tow cannot be performed safely.

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Assessing the Boat in Distress

Before deciding whether to tow a boat, rescuers need to assess the situation:

1. Find out the condition of the boat and its occupants.

2. Find out the size of the boat.

3. Warn the owner of the risks involved in towing (damage happens). Record the conversation and get a witness to sign the document. 4. Assess whether it is safe to tow the boat.

Developing a Plan of Action

In developing an action plan for towing, the boat operator needs to consider:

• environmental conditions

• the likelihood of towlines entangling

• the likelihood of a collision

• the condition of the towing cleats

• whether an upstream or downstream tow would be best

• the destination of the tow and how far the boat must travel

• how the boats will be anchored

It is preferable for there to be no one onboard the distressed boat while it is being

towed. Whenever possible, everyone must be transferred to the rescue boat. However, if rescue personnel must remain on the distressed boat, it is important to ensure that proper communication can be maintained via a loud hailer or radio.

Before Connecting

1. Confirm that the planned method of communication works.

2. Discuss the planned towing method with all rescue personnel. Establish the person in charge on each vessel and the person in charge of the overall tow. 3. Discuss the transfer and connection of the towlines. If the water is not calm, the rescue boat should not come directly alongside the distressed vessel to toss it the towline. Instead, a heaving line or throw bag should be used to maintain a safe distance while transferring the towline. 4. Confirm that everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency.

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Starting the Tow

1. Signal the start of the tow to everyone by blowing a horn. Rescue personnel should be in position to cut towlines if needed.

2. Start the tow slowly.

3. Periodically check the towlines for chafing and the hardware for signs of excess stress. 4. When checking the rigging, ensure that no one straddles or stands in the direct line of the towline. If the line snaps, it will whip forward and backward, severely injuring anyone in its way. 5. When in protected waters, shorten the towline for maximum maneuverability. Be careful because both vessels will not slow at the same rate. The towing boat must remain in control of the speed decrease to ensure that the towline does not get sucked into the jet and the distressed boat does not overtake the towing boat. In order to ensure boat safety:

• Reduce the tow speed if there are strong winds.

• Do not meet a wave head-on when towing.

• At night, make sure to light the boat in distress.

Towing Methods

There are five methods used for towing:

• Towing Bridle Method – suitable if the towline is long

• In-Line/Convoy Method – suitable on calm waters

• Y Formation Method – can be used if the rescue boat does not have a centre cleat

• V Formation Method – suitable under difficult towing condition and when a short distance between the two boats is required

• Shoulder Method – suitable for short distances

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Towing Bridle Method

Figure 20: Towing Bridle Method © 2011 The City of Calgary

In order to connect the bridle, the towline has to be long enough to leave some slack between the tow boat and the boat in distress.

NOTE: Inspect the anchor points on the disabled vessel before hooking up to tow.

If the boat being towed has suitable connections on the bow, make a couple of turns on the fore cleats and continue the lines to the stern cleats, or if it is a sailboat, to the mast. This helps disperse some of the force over more connection points.

In-Line/Convoy Method

Figure 21: In-Line/Convoy Method © 2011 The City of Calgary

This method is used to tow a boat on still, water. The strengths of the In-Line/Convoy method are:

• The line length absorbs most of the shock forces when towing begins.

• This method is fast and easy to set up, change, and shorten when docking. The weaknesses of the In-Line/Convoy method are:

• All tension forces are on two connection points.

• A heavier towline is required.

• There is a greater possibility of entanglement, especially when using non-buoyant lines.

NOTE: A lifejacket or PFD should be installed halfway along the line to warn other boaters. This also helps keep the towline from whipping if a failure occurs.

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Y Formation Method

Figure 22: Y Formation Method © 2011 The City of Calgary

This method is used when the rescue boat does not have a centre cleat.

The strengths of the Y Formation method are:

• It is effective for long distances.

• The tension forces between two cleats are automatically equalized by the pulley.

• This method works well in rough water conditions.

• Shock forces are diminished with the use of a long towline.

• This method can be used on an outboard motor.

The weaknesses of the Y Formation method are:

• The towline may not articulate properly and may change the angle of tow.

• Two towlines are required.

V Formation Method

Figure 23: V Formation Method © 2011 The City of Calgary

This method is used when towing conditions are difficult and only a short distance between the boats is required. The strengths of the V Formation method are:

• The tension between the anchor cleats is distributed evenly.

• The channels are narrow.

• The boat is towed into the current.

• This tow can be built with one rope woven between the two cleats.

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The weaknesses of the V Formation method are:

• There is a risk of collision between the two boats if the towboat stops.

• It is difficult to co-ordinate the movements between the two boats.

• The tow tends to be jerky.

• The tension between the anchor points is high.

Shoulder Method

Figure 24: Shoulder Method © 2011 The City of Calgary

This method is used for short distances.

The strengths of the Shoulder method are:

• It is the best way to avoid collisions.

• It offers the highest level of control of the distressed craft.

• It is easy to put the boat against the dock.

• The boat being towed is 1/3 in front of the towboat, which makes it easier to steer. The weaknesses of the Shoulder method are:

• It requires room to dock.

• The boat must have fenders to prevent damage.

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Reading a River

Upon completion of this training, you will be able to: 1. Identify and analyze river risks: a. Describe the techniques used to read a river. b. Explain the characteristics of moving water, still water, and swiftwater. c. Explain the International Scale of River Difficulty classification system. d. Describe the impact of river banks, islands, tributary streams, and sandbars. e. Identify floating hazards. f. Assess river conditions g. Identify river obstructions. h. Consider general environmental factors.

How to Read a River

Whether you are in a rescue boat or in the water, being able to read the river can mean the difference between life and death. It is vitally important that all FFD members are able to recognize the anatomy of a river or stream, and make decisions accordingly. Identifying basic river features is an important part of navigation. It helps keep everyone safe when performing basic boating maneuvers and in-water rescues.

Performing a Risk Analysis

A river presents a variety of hazards that can harm members of rescue teams, other passengers, and the boat itself. To ensure everyone's safety, boat operators and rescuers must be able to identify river hazards and analyze the risk they present.

NOTE: River hazards may strike, entrap, and obscure vision for the boat operator, rescuers, and victims.

Lifting Your Vision

Lift your eyes when travelling in a boat. Look in front of the boat relative to the speed you are moving. As you speed up, scan further ahead so you have time to avoid obstacles. As you slow down, scan closer to the front of the boat. By adjusting your focus and remaining aware of upcoming obstacles and conditions, you create a comfort zone for safe boat operation. You are able to scan currents, the shoreline, and colour changes in the water. In addition, you maintain a safe stopping distance.

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If you keep looking ahead, you will notice conditions such as:

• a change in the horizon line, indicating a sudden change in grade (such as a weir)

• steep banks, indicating deep water

• greenery along the shore, indicating shallow water

• boils on the water surface, indicating deep water

• fast water, indicating the deepest channel

• debris in the water, indicating that the water level increased recently

Heading Upstream First

When you drive the boat upstream it's easier to see the hazards in the water. Also, if you have any mechanical problems, you can simply float back to the starting point.

NOTE: Boats travel faster going downstream.

Searching for Hazards

Watch for visible rocks and pillows formed by submerged objects. Some features are only seen clearly as they draw near. This is why it's important to maintain a speed that allows you to avoid sudden obstacles.

Finding a Point of Elevation

You can see hazards more readily if you stand on the shore or on-board where you can look down on the river. If you are unsure of a river's features, it is recommended that you scout the river by walking downstream of the hazard to view it from that angle.

NOTE: When in doubt, SCOUT.

Memorizing River Channels

Within a river system, deep -water channels are created. These deep channels are hidden when the water levels are high, but they are very evident when the water level is low. Boat operators should be particularly concerned when the water level changes. To ensure that you take the safest route, memorize the river by:

• referencing hazards in the water to an object on the shoreline

• periodically looking back to where you came from

• stopping and looking around

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NOTE: Rivers can change hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly.

Boat operators and surface rescuers should constantly read the river and ask themselves the following questions:

• Am I looking far enough upstream or downstream?

• Where does the current end?

• Does the main flow enter on one side of the river?

• Why was the current deflected?

• Where is the deepest channel of water?

What to Look For

Water Hydrology

Water hydrology is the science of water movement in relation to land. In order to remain safe in water environments, all members FFD must have a basic understanding of water hydrology. People are attracted to lakes, oceans, rivers, and streams. These recreational playgrounds are fun and exciting, but they can also take a life quickly. Gravity moves the water in rivers and streams. You need to learn the language of the moving water in order to recognize its signs. These signs can tell you where the water is flowing and how to work with it. Reading the river, figuring out how a boat will react, and picking the safest route is a rewarding challenge that takes dedicated practice to master. The rescuers' knowledge of the river and the predictability of swiftwater are the basis upon which all rescues are built. There is a tremendous amount of power in any river system. If you work against it, it can defeat or even kill. The most basic principle of swift water rescue is to use the power of the water in your favour.

Characteristics of Moving Water

Rivers, like people, have different personalities. A river's personality is determined by:

• the volume of water

• the speed at which the water moves relative to land

• the riverbed composition and shoreline features

If any of these variables change, the river also changes. All moving water has three characteristics: it is powerful, relentless, and predictable.

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Powerful

As the speed and volume of the current increases, so does its power. When the speed of the current doubles, the force of the water against an object in the current quadruples. Water forces applied to an object increase with water depth and current velocity. The following table illustrates the relationship between speed, volume, and power.

Table 2: The Force of Water Current Velocity On Legs On a Body On a Swamped Boat miles/hr km/hr lb/ft2 kg/ft2 lb/ft2 kg/ft2 lb/ft2 kg/ft2 3 2 16.8 7.6 33.6 15.3 168 76.2

6 3.7 67.2 30.5 134 60.8 672 305

9 5.6 151 69 302 137 1512 686

12 7.5 269 122 538 244 2688 1219

Relentless

River currents will push against an object until there is a water flow interruption.

Predictable

The science of water hydrology enables us to understand river features and their characteristics, both visible and hidden. Small streams present the same characteristics as larger rivers, just scaled down.

NOTE: The operator will have maximum control of the boat when the bow of the boat is facing upstream. This is the best and most stable position when implementing a rescue.

Still Water

Still water is classified into two categories:

• large bodies of water such as reservoirs, lakes, and oceans

• slow moving or still water on rivers

Reservoirs, lakes, and oceans can change quickly with weather, tides, and water usage. To ensure safe boat operation on large bodies of still water:

• Know the area's hazards.

• Understand that wind on still water creates waves. This wave action may cause you to feel as if you are moving slowly, which is why you should use the shoreline to gauge speed.

• Operate the boat cautiously.

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NOTE: For maximum control, place the bow of the boat into the wind when implementing a rescue on a large body of still water.

Slow moving or still water areas on a river include eddies and other locations where the river is wide. For more information, refer to page 49.

Swiftwater

Rivers are driven by gravity. The steeper the gradient, the faster the water will move. When the river narrows, the water must speed up to move the same volume. Conversely, when the river is wider, the water slows down. When combined with velocity, mass has force. A cubic foot of freshwater weighs 28.3 kg (62.4 lbs). The force of moving water deserves great respect. Always make an effort to work with the force of the moving water, rather than against it. Working against the water wastes critical time and energy.

The volume of a river takes into account the moving water. It may be expressed as cubic meters per second (cms) or cubic feet per second (cfs). River volume is calculated using the following formula: River Volume = Width x Depth x Speed

International Scale of River Difficulty

River classification is designed to aid the recreational boater. It helps identify the skill level required to navigate safely by rating the river from 1 to 6, with 6 being the hardest. International Scale of River Difficulty Class I • moving water with a few ripples and small waves • few or no obstructions Class II • easy rapids with waves up to 3 ft • wide clear channels that are obvious without scouting • some maneuvering is required Class III • rapids with high, irregular waves often capable of swamping an open canoe • narrow passages that often require complex maneuvering • may require scouting from shore Class IV • long, difficult rapids with constricted passages that often require precise maneuvering in very turbulent water • scouting from shore is often necessary and conditions make rescue difficult • generally not possible for open canoes • boaters in covered canoes and kayaks should be able to Eskimo roll

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International Scale of River Difficulty Class V • extremely difficult, long and very violent rapids with high, congested routes, which nearly always must be scouted from shore • rescue conditions are difficult and there is significant hazard to life in event of a mishap

• ability to Eskimo roll is essential for kayaks and canoes Class VI • difficulties of Class V carried to the extreme of navigability • nearly impossible and very dangerous • for teams of experts only, after close study and with all precaution taken

* If the water temperature is below 10º C or if the trip is through extended wilderness, the river should be considered one class more difficult than normal.

NOTE: Gradient, water volume, river features and quantity of debris are indicators of increasing degrees of difficulty. For example: rain can turn an average Class II river into a Class III or IV river due to the extra volume of water.

River Features

Banks

The banks of a river help identify the river bottom. Steep banks indicate a deep channel. Shallow banks and vegetation growth along the shoreline indicate shallow water.

Figure 25: River Banks © 2011 The City of Calgary

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Islands

Islands have deposits of sand and gravel on the upstream and downstream sides. These deposits are called shoals. The shoals are formed as the laminar flow compresses up to, and against the island, and slowly deposits sediment on the riverbed at the base of the island on both the upstream and downstream sides. It is important to remember the following safety tips around any island:

• When turning the boat around an island, allow for clearance of the upstream and downstream sediment. Sucking up gravel into the impeller can cause immediate loss of power and control.

• Watch how the current splits around the river to determine the safest route.

• An island in the middle of a river can indicate deep channels along either shoreline. Avoid the middle of the river, as well as the upstream and downstream ends of the island.

Figure 26: River Islands © 2011 The City of Calgary

Page 372 Pg. 44 Rescue Boat Operations

Tributary Streams

Secondary rivers or streams that run into the main river flow are called tributary streams. These streams deposit large quantities of mud, sand, and gravel bars into the main channel. Boat operators should be careful to stay clear of tributary streams.

You can identify tributary streams by looking for:

• changes in water color

• currents mixing

• changes in current speed

• small ripples indicating shallow water

Mudbars and Sandbars

Mud bars and sandbars are most often found in slow-moving rivers

around islands, inside river bends, and around tributary confluences. Boat operators should be careful to stay clear of mudbars and sandbars.

You can identify mud bars and sandbars by looking for:

• changes in water color

• small ripples on the water surface

Floating Hazards

Floating hazards are dangerous and difficult to navigate around. A variety of objects may pose a floating hazard including:

• people and animals swimming

• watercraft (canoes, kayaks, and so on)

• people standing mid-river in order to fish

• trees and logs

• weeds (especially late in the season)

Page 373 Pg. 45 Rescue Boat Operations

Rivers commonly flood during spring runoff. Melting snow adds great volumes of water from the mountains, thereby sending floodwaters that swell riverbanks and create new channels and ponds. Floodwater takes with it trees, logs, leaves, grass, dirt, and anything else in its path.

NOTE: Flood conditions present an elevated level of hazards that boat operators must mitigate to avoid damage.

Floating hazards are carried down the river in one of the following ways:

1. Top Loads – Top loads do not interrupt water flow momentum. They are carried close to the surface of the water and move at the speed of the river. Boats, logs, trees, and debris may be carried as a top load. 2. Suspended Loads – Suspended loads neither float nor touch the bottom, but are semi-buoyant in a mid-water column. These particles are generally the size of fine sand, silt, and clay. However, larger particles may be carried as well, depending on the intensity of the flow. Waterlogged wood is a common example of a suspended load. 3. Bottom Loads – Bottom loads consist of heavier objects that move along the river bottom or may settle there, depending on the water volume. Higher water volume can cause these large objects to shift, which may change river features.

NOTE: High river levels present a greater risk of debris plugging the jet leg. Refer to the FFD Outlaw Eagle Boat manual for information on troubleshooting jet and engine problems.

Page 374 Pg. 46 Rescue Boat Operations

River Conditions

All members of FFD must be able to recognize and interpret river conditions.

Figure 27: River Conditions © 2011 The City of Calgary

Page 375 Pg. 47 Rescue Boat Operations

Turbidity

Turbidity refers to the degree of cloudiness in the water caused by suspended silt, leaves, mud, sand, microscopic aquatic organisms, and other particulates. Suspended particulates may hide a river hazard. The turbidity level constantly changes depending on weather conditions and tributary streams that drain into the main flow of the river.

NOTE: Suspended particulate and river debris when pulled into the jet can slowly damage the impeller, thereby causing loss of thrust and control. This same type of debris may enter and clog the cooling system, which can cause the motor to overheat. Watch the temperature and tachometer gauges when the turbidity level is high.

River Currents

Currents are powerful and relentless. They continually push against objects in the water. There are two types of current in rivers: laminar and helical. The laminar flow is the main current. It travels down the center body of water and consists of several layers that move at different speeds. The fastest moving layer is just under the surface and the slowest moving layer is along the river bottom. Laminar flow is the current that takes victims and rescuers downstream.

Helical flow is the secondary current. It cuts in at the shoreline and pulls particles and objects out to the deeper laminar flow. It impacts the movement not only of objects, but of victims and rescuers as well. Helical flow intensifies at river bends, thereby creating pools, undercuts, and cliffs. It can even change the course of a river in extreme flood conditions.

Page 376 Pg. 48 Rescue Boat Operations

Figure 28: River Currents © 2011 The City of Calgary

Upstream Flow

When water flows up to and over an obstruction, it gives the appearance of an upstream flow. Over time and as conditions heighten, the upstream flow may progress from an eddy to a hydraulic and finally to a hole. The appearance of the water changes as its volume increases or decreases. Eddies

An eddy is the most common example of upstream water flow on a river. It is also known as a back eddy or backwater. With an eddy, fast moving laminar flow compresses on an obstruction and forms a pillow of water on the upstream side. As water flows over the obstruction into the void, it creates a swirl of fluid on each edge of the obstacle. This swirl of fluid is referred to as the eddy line. Once past the object, the water moves in an upstream flow toward the downstream side of the obstacle. The intensity of the upstream flow depends on the size, shape, and location of the obstruction. This can be identified by observing eddy lines. The more clearly the eddy lines are defined, the greater the intensity of the upstream flow. It is vitally important that all rescuers are able to recognize and interpret eddies because they provide a safe refuge from the current. Boaters often use eddies to stop and rest away from the laminar flow.

Page 377 Pg. 49 Rescue Boat Operations

Figure 29: River Eddies © 2011 The City of Calgary

Hydraulics

A hydraulic is created when water flows over an obstruction, such as a boulder or drop, and air collects in the water as a result. A re-circulating current is created as the water drops behind the obstruction and flows upstream. The aerated water is white and foamy. A boil line forms where the water that is flowing over the obstruction meets the aerated water. The downstream water seeks the lowest possible level by flowing back in an upstream direction to fill the hole. This creates a reverse water wheel effect, which can trap floating objects in the hole. With naturally occurring hydraulics, there are usually escape routes on the sides of the obstruction. In contrast, man-made hydraulics, such as weirs and low-head dams, do not have escape routes, which is why they are sometimes referred to as drowning machines.

Figure 30: Hydraulics © 2011 The City of Calgary

Page 378 Pg. 50 Rescue Boat Operations

Although escape from a low-head damn is difficult for a swimmer, there are two methods that may be tried. The swimmer may go downstream after surfacing at the boil line, or the swimmer may attempt to catch the water underneath.

Figure 31: Vertical Drop © 2011 The City of Calgary

If you find yourself being swept over a vertical drop-off, pull your knees and feet to your chest to avoid entrapment. Holes

A hole occurs when flowing water rises over an obstruction but does not turn back on itself. A hole looks like a wave with a white, foamy backwash. This is why holes are often called standing waves. The wave height varies, depending on how much water is pouring over the obstruction. If you face downstream when looking at a hole, it will look more like a wave. The greater the wave, the deeper the water and the more easily the hole can be recognized.

Pillows or Boils

Pillows of water on the surface, sometimes referred to as boils, are a sign of deep water. They consist of a circular upwelling of water created by currents deflecting off an object on the river bottom and shooting to the surface. The larger the diameter of the boil, the deeper the water beneath. When operating a boat, be cautious of these areas because they may carry floating hazards.

Horizontal Line

If you are travelling downstream and the water seems to disappear over the edge of a drop, you may be looking at a horizontal line. There may be ridges or a buildup of rock on the shoreline where the horizontal line runs across the river. This line indicates a drastic drop in the river gradient, which may be due to a waterfall, a low-head dam, or a hydraulic. Whenever you see a horizontal line, immediately pull over and tie the boat to the shore so that you can walk downstream and investigate.

Page 379 Pg. 51 Rescue Boat Operations

Upstream and Downstream V

A V-shape on the water surface may indicate a safe path of travel. It can help guide the boat operator in determining where the majority of the water is flowing. A V with the apex pointing downstream indicates a deeper water channel. The V is formed by a large volume of water running downstream and being pushed through a narrow channel created by obstructions or a change in the shoreline. Narrow channels of this type are commonly known as chutes. In contrast, a V with the apex pointing upstream indicates an obstruction in the water just under the surface.

NOTE: When travelling downstream, stay away from Vs. When travelling upstream, aim for Vs. This will become very apparent when you are on the river.

Figure 32: Upstream and Downstream V © 2011 The City of Calgary

River Waves

Common river waves can take the form of small ripples or standing waves. The appearance of river waves provides more clues about condition. Whether you are observing from the shore as a rescuer or from a travelling jet boat as the boat operator, it is important that you know how to interpret the appearance of waves from a distance.

Page 380 Pg. 52 Rescue Boat Operations

Standing Waves

As water is forced through a narrow channel with a change of gradient, the velocity at which it travels increases. In contrast, when the channel widens, the velocity at which the water travels decreases. In narrow channels, the faster moving water rushes down and piles up on the slower water. This creates a stacking effect, otherwise known as a standing wave. Standing waves are a strong indicator of a deep-water channel. If you travel on one side or the other of the standing waves your ride will be smoother, and there will be less wear and tear on the boat. It is easy to confuse standing waves with rock collections just beneath the water surface. To tell the difference, look for how well organized the waves appear to be. Standing waves usually create an inline, uniform rhythmic series of waves. In contrast, rock collections just under the surface make the waves appear less organized and much more spread out. Small Ripples

These little waves indicate shallow water. Ripples often occur above and below

islands, inside river bends, and in other areas where the river bottom is built-up. However, ripples can also be created by windy conditions. This is just one reason why it is important to keep weather conditions in mind when you are reading a river.

River Obstructions

Stationary objects in or above the water may form obstructions. Rocks, abutments,

sweepers, and strainers are common examples of river obstructions. Visible Rocks and Bridge Abutments

Beginner boaters are usually terrified of rocks and bridge abutments in the river. Boat operators who spot one of these hazards, should stay clear. Although no one plans on hitting a rock or abutment, if it happens you should be prepared to react appropriately. If you are swimming and your body begins to float powerlessly sideways towards this type of hazard, lean aggressively towards the rock or abutment. A similar tactic should be used when operating a boat. Lean the boat aggressively towards the rock or abutment. You may even put a hand or paddle on the rock to help steer it clear of the object. Water buffeting off the hazard forms a pillow that can help keep the boat off the hazard and on top of the water, but it is important to document all damage.

Page 381 Pg. 53 Rescue Boat Operations

Figure 33: River Obstructions © 2011 The City of Calgary

NOTE: Depending on how a vehicle is being carried down the river, it may be considered a floating hazard or an obstruction. Rescuers must approach the vehicle from upstream, and ensure that the vehicle is secured and not moving before they reach into the interior compartment.

In addition, you should watch out for less obvious obstructions such as bridges and fences. Since bridges are popular locations from which to fish, it is not uncommon for fishing lines to dangle from bridges. To ensure the safety of everyone aboard a rescue boat, all passengers should keep their heads and bodies behind the safety of a windshield when passing under a bridge. In rural areas, beware of barbed wire fences running across rivers.

Page 382 Pg. 54 Rescue Boat Operations

Sweepers and Strainers

As rivers flow, they constantly erode the banks. Occasionally, this action cuts under a tree, bush, fence, or other obstacle near the shore, thereby causing it to fall towards the water. Obstruction hazards can be above the water, on top of the water, partially submerged, or completely submerged. There are two types of trapping hazards: sweepers and strainers.

Sweepers are formed above water by an obstacle that is typically attached to shore. Examples include trees, bushes, fences, and construction debris. Sweepers can capsize boats, knock people overboard, and cause serious

damage to boats. Strainers may be partially or completely submerged. They look like a log jam, or a collection of debris in a fallen tree. Strainers can easily pin and hold a person or boat, particularly when combined with the power of water coming downstream.

NOTE: Sweepers and strainers can very quickly present life threatening conditions and should be avoided at all costs. Once entangled, escape from a strainer can be impossible.

Figure 34: Sweepers and Strainers © 2011 The City of Calgary

Page 383 Pg. 55 Rescue Boat Operations

In order to avoid sweepers and strainers, boat operators shall:

• Always approach sweepers or strainers from the side.

• Position the boat where it will not be pushed into the hazard. Rescuers and boat operators who find themselves in the water shall:

• Always approach sweepers or strainers from the side.

• Position themselves where they cannot be pushed into the hazard.

• Be prepared to fend off the hazard or attack it, depending on its size. A small hazard can be fended off more easily than a large one. To fend off a hazard, rescuers lie on their back and use their feet to push the hazard away. To attack the hazard, rescuers swim aggressively and get on top of the hazard.

Environmental Considerations

Environmental conditions alter the boat operator's ability to navigate properly. These conditions can make it uncomfortable to travel on rivers and they can hide river features. To ensure the safety of everyone involved, boat operators should keep the following in mind:

• Wind blows debris and makes waves similar to the small ripples created by rocks under the water surface. Always operate the boat slowly and cautiously in windy conditions.

• Sun glare is blinding. Wear proper eye protection (polarized sunglasses), and operate the boat away from the sun glare, especially when the sun is low during sunrise or sunset.

• Rain and snow can be blinding. Operate the boat at a slower speed.

• Insects can be blinding, can make it hard to breathe, and can hurt when they hit you in the face.

• Fog and night-time operation should be done slowly due to reduced visibility.

NOTE: Wear protective eyewear and dress appropriately for the weather conditions.

Page 384 Rescue Boat Operations

Index

A

H Acceleration While Transporting Boat, 8 Hand Signals Getting Closer, 18 B Move Straight Back, 16 Backing Up Move to Left, 17 While Transporting Boat, 11 Move to Right, 17 Banks of a River, 43 Stop, 16 Boat Operators Hauling a Rescue Boat, 7 Responsibilities, 19 Accelerating, 8 Safety, 29 Adjusting Side Mirrors, 7–8 Boat Usage Report, 28 Backing Up, 11–14 Boils in a River, 51 Controlling Sway, 10 Bridge Abutments, 53–54 Forward Cornering, 10–11 Spotting the Apparatus, 15 C Stopping, 9 Helical Flow, 48 Chines, 5 Holes in a River, 51 Classes of River Difficulty, 42–43 Hydraulics in a River, 50–51 Convoy Towing Method, 35 Currents in a River, 48–49 I

D Impeller/Housing Impeller, 6 Inflatable Boats, 4 Departing a Dock, 23 In-Line Towing Method, 35 Docking, 26 Intake Grate, 5 Downstream V, 52 International Scale of River Difficulty,

42–43 E Islands in a River, 44 Eddies, 49–50 Moving In and Out, 24–25 J

Emergency Stops, 24 Jet Boats, 4

F K

Ferrying, 23–24 Keels, 5 Floating Hazards, 45–46 Forward Cornering L While Transporting Boat, 10–11 Laminar Flow, 48 G Launching a Rescue Boat, 22 Loading a Rescue Boat, 26–27 Getting Closer Hand Signal, 18 Gunwale, 5

Page 385 Rescue Boat Operations

M Moving Water, 40–41 Mudbars, 45 Memorizing River Channels, 39–40 Night-time, 56 Mirrors Pillows, 51 Side Mirrors, 7–8 Rain, 56 Move Straight Back Hand Signal, 16 Risk Analysis, 38 Move to Left Hand Signal, 17 River Channels, 39–40 Move to Right Hand Signal, River Waves, 52–53 17 Moving Water Rock Obstructions, 53–54 Characteristics, 40–41 Sandbars, 45 Mudbars, 45 Sight Level, 38–39

Snow, 56 N Still Water, 41–42 Navigating Strainers, 55–56 Right-of-Way Rules, 21 Sun Glare, 56 River Directions, 20 Sweepers, 55–56 Swiftwater, 42 O Tributary Streams, 45 On-Step, 23 Turbidity, 48 Upstream V, 52 P Vertical Drop, 51 Wind, 56 Picking Up a Victim Regulating Bodies, 3 Conscious Victim, 29–30 Rescue Boats Unconscious Victim, 31 Against an Immovable Object, 25 Pillows in a River, 51 Departing a Dock, 23 Pivoting a Rescue Boat, 25 Design, 5–6 Direction, 23 R Docking, 26 Reading a River Eddies, 24–25 Banks, 43 Emergency Stop, 24 Basic Procedure, 38–40 Ferrying, 23–24 Boils, 51 Inflatable Boats, 4 Bridge Abutments, 53–54 Jet Boats, 4 Currents, 48–49 On-Step, 23 Downstream V, 52 Pivoting, 25 Eddies, 49–50 Safe Driving Stance, 22 Elevation Point, 39 Shutting Down, 26–28 Floating Hazards, 45–46 Speed, 23 Fog, 56 Starting, 22 Hazard Identification, 39 Reverse Clam, 5 Heading Upstream, 39 Right-of-Way Rules, 21 Holes, 51 River Conditions Horizontal Line, 51 Currents, 48–49 Hydraulics, 50–51 Turbidity, 48 Insects, 56 International Scale of River Difficulty, 42–43 Islands, 44

Page 386 Rescue Boat Operations

River Features Trailer Sway Banks, 43 While Transporting Boat, 10 Islands, 44 Transom, 5 Mudbars, 45 Tributary Streams, 45 Sandbars, 45 Trim Tabs, 5 Tributary Streams, 45 Turbidity, 48 River Waves, 52–53 River-Left, 20 U

River-Right, 20 Upstream V, 52

S V

Sandbars, 45 V Formation Towing Method, 36–37 Shoulder Towing Method, 37 Victim Pickup Shutting Down a Rescue Boat, 26–28 Conscious Victim, 29–30 Slow Down Hand Signal, 18 Unconscious Victim, 31 Spotting the Apparatus, 15 Starting a Rescue Boat, 22 W Stator, 5 Steering Nozzle, 6 Water Hydrology, 40 Still Water Watercraft in Distress Characteristics, 41–42 Deciding Whether to Tow, 32 Stop Hand Signal, 16 Safety, 32 Stopping Y While Transporting Boat, 9 Strainers, 55–56 Y Formation Towing Method, 36 Strake, 5 Stream Shaper, 5 Sweepers, 55–56 Swiftwater Characteristics, 42

T

Towing Bridle Method, 35 Towing Distressed Watercraft, 33–37 Assessing a Boat in Distress, 33 Convoy Method, 35 Deciding Whether to Tow, 32 Inline Method, 35 Safety, 32 Shoulder Method, 37 Towing Bridle Method, 35 V Formation Method, 36–37 Y Formation Method, 36

Page 387 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0013 Chain of Command Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose:

The Chain of Command of the Fire Department is the order or chain of vested authority and responsibility by which the business of the Department shall be conducted. It serves the function of allowing information to flow in an orderly manner from volunteer to the Chief and to all steps between.

The proper use of the Chain of Command depends upon each member of the Department working within his assigned sphere of authority and responsibility. The Chain of Command is the vehicle used for all orders, grievances, requests, etc., and its proper use by all members of the Department is both necessary and mandatory.

Line Chain of Command: Staff Chain of Command:

1. Fire Chief 2. Deputy Fire Chief 3. Battalion Chief 4. Deputy District Fire Chief 5. Captain 6. Senior Fire Fighter 7. Firefighter. 8. Candidate.

Fire Chief ______

Page 388 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0017 Fire Fighter Evacuation Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose: To establish procedures for the safe and efficient evacuation of firefighting personnel involved in interior fire suppression operations.

Proper risk management should be exercised at all incidents. Interior firefighting operations should be abandoned for the following reasons:

1. Extent of the fire prohibits control 2. Structure is unsafe to operate in or around 3. Fire conditions make the building untenable 4. Hazards exist that jeopardize operations and personnel 5. Loss of water/Insufficient fire flow 6. Incident Command / Officers Discretion

Conditions that all firefighters should be aware of that may necessitate emergency evacuation include but are not limited to:

1. Structural collapse 2. Backdraft 3. Flashover 4. Explosion 5. Uncontrolled fire extension

When such conditions exist and emergency procedures are required, command must provide for the following:

Page 389

1. Evacuation 2. Regrouping 3. Personnel Accountability Report (PAR) 4. Communications 5. Tactical changes 6. Redeployment Our primary concern is the welfare of our personnel when a hazard, which may affect their safety, becomes apparent. There needs to be a structured method of evacuation in place to protect firefighters who are placed in jeopardy by the adverse effects of these conditions. This will provide for the rapid and effective notification of personnel involved and will accurately account for the safety of those personnel.

Declaring an emergency depends on the following circumstances:

1. Imminent danger of the hazard 2. Type and extent of the hazard 3. Perception of the area affected by the hazard

Declaring an emergency should be initiated when the hazard appears imminent. Any member has the authority to declare an emergency when it is felt that a notable danger to firefighters is apparent.

Hazards noted of a less than imminent danger should be handled by a consultation of Command, Safety Officers, Station Officers, or an outside agency with jurisdictional authority. These officers or specialists should make a determination as to the nature and possible effect of the suspected hazard and advise command so that a proper course of action can be taken.

Emergency Traffic:

When an imminent hazard has been realized the emergency traffic process should be initiated. The initiator should:

1. Advise unit designation and advise command with “emergency traffic 3X's” 2. Example: “Command from Engine 9, emergency traffic, emergency traffic, emergency traffic.” 3. All other fire-ground traffic should be held until notification of emergency is complete.

Page 390 The initiator should then: 1. Describe the apparent hazard 2. Order an evacuation of a particular area or group 3. Order an immediate evacuation of the entire structure

Incident Command will then initiate the evacuation procedures. The signal to evacuate the area will be threefold and will begin simultaneously:

1. Incident Command will notify fire control of the exact evacuation orders. The control operator will precede the evacuation announcement with AFFRCS radio eveacuation tones three, (3) sets of three (3) air horn blasts, followed by the “Emergency evacuation has been ordered” message to evacuate the designated areas. This will be done on all talk-groups being used on the incident.

2. Group and Company Officers should face-to-face notify and begin evacuation of all firefighters in their respective areas.

3. If a full structural evacuation is ordered:

4. Air horns on all apparatus on scene will be sounded continuously for 10 seconds followed by a three (3) second pause. The sounding and pausing sequence will be repeated at least three times or until the incident commander is assured that all personnel have exited the structure.

Members operating on fire-ground should vacate the structure immediately. Tools and equipment may be left behind if practical.

Upon receipt of the emergency traffic order, Officers shall assemble personnel assigned to them and promptly exit to a safe location where the Officer will account for all members. Group officers will then account for all evacuated units.

Incident Command will then begin a Personnel Accountability Report, (PAR) for each sector in the evacuated area. Incident Command will then match all reporting units against the accountability system to insure evacuation. When all affected units and members are accounted for, the evacuation process is complete. If a member or members are unaccounted for, the Rapid Intervention Team may be deployed and that standard operating procedure will be put into effect.

If all personnel are accounted for, a more specific determination as to the reality and extent of the hazard can be made and efforts to redeploy or redirect attack forces can be determined. Building evacuations generally involve a shift from offensive to defensive strategies. In such cases, Command

Page 391 must develop a corresponding operational plan and must communicate that plan to all operating elements.

1. Incident Command must notify all units and members that a shift in strategy has occurred. 2. Fire control should use the radio to notify companies that a shift has been made from offensive to defensive modes.

Incident Command may have the Incident Safety Officer or a designee use barrier tape or some visible means to cordon off collapse zone area if necessary. All members should be briefed on the changes in tactical deployments and reasons for evacuation.

Evacuation (Defensive withdrawal):

An evacuation may be ordered if changing fire conditions warrant the change from offensive to defensive tactics. This may be done with a verbal message that an “Evacuation (Defensive withdrawal) has been ordered” over the radio from Command.

Fire Chief ______

Page 392 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0018 Fire Fighter Emergency Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose: This procedure outlines the steps to be followed in the event a firefighter emergency arises.

The “MAYDAY” signal may be given by any fire department member who may be lost/disoriented/trapped or in imminent danger and in need of immediate assistance.

MAYDAY PROCEDURES:

1.) The signal for a missing/lost/trapped firefighter shall be any or all of the following: • Radio or verbal transmission of “MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY” • PASS device alarm status activation

MAYDAY FIREFIGHTER ACTIONS: In the event that you become lost, trapped, disoriented, discover an injured firefighter, are unable to account for a member of your crew, or experience some other situation where you require emergency assistance during fire-ground operations, transmit a MAYDAY using these steps:

1.) Transmit a fire-ground MAYDAY over your radio by stating: • MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY, the reason for the MAYDAY and air pressure. • Give your LUNAR: Location, unit, number/name, and assignment, Resources needed

2.) Manually Activate Your PASS Device

3.) Keep Command updated

As you attempt to solve your problem make sure to keep Command updated on progress and needs. In the event that you — or somebody else on the fire-ground — solve your problem then advise

Page 393 command immediately and update them on your location and status.

* All other firefighters must maintain radio discipline and transmit only Emergency Traffic.

FIREFIGHTER SURVIVAL – MANAGING YOUR MAYDAY: The most important point regarding firefighter survival is that prevention is the key! If you can prevent the situation from developing, then it won’t ever become an emergency. If, however, you can’t prevent the situation—or the events were out of your control to begin with—previous hands-on training with different firefighter survival skills just may save your life.

DEVELOP A SURVIVAL ATTITUDE: Unexpected events may occur on the fire-ground that places you in a life or death situation with little or no time to react. Things can go terribly wrong on the fire-ground, take every opportunity to prepare for, and train for, the emergency before it happens. “Grab Lives”.

Self Survival Procedure Gauge. CHECK AIR GAUGE Radio. RADIO FOR ASSISTANCE Activate. ACTIVATE PASS Breathing. CONSERVE AIR Low. STAY LOW Illuminate. SHINE FLASHLIGHT Volume (make noise). MAKE A LOUD NOISE Exit (find one). FIND AN EXIT Shield Airway. PROTECT AIRWAY

Radio Communication: Firefighter calling Mayday will stay on original radio channel; Incident command, RIT will switch to “Mayday” firefighters channel to maintain communication. All other fire ground personal will switch over to another Op / Inter Op channel i.e. Op 2 / 3 / 4. Inter Op 1 / 2

Page 394

Fire Chief ______

Page 395 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0019 Rapid Intervention Teams (R.I.T.) Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose: The objective of the Rapid Intervention Team (R.I.T.) is to have firefighters immediately available to assist a firefighter(s) that become trapped, lost, or is in distress.

Scope – All fire department incidents where personnel may be placed in a hazardous condition.

Manning A. The RIT should consist of minimum of (2) experienced firefighters. B. The RIT should be expanded to minimum of (4) experienced firefighters as soon as more personnel are available. C. On large-scale incidents more than one RIT can be assigned to the incident. D. When multiple RIT’s are utilized they shall be designated RIT 1, RIT 2, etc.

Team Assignments A. RIT 1 – should be utilized to locate and assess the needs to remove the firefighter(s) from the hazardous condition. B. RIT 2 – when the recon team locates the firefighter(s), shall initiate the rescue and bring all necessary tools needed to the identified location.

Gear A. The RIT shall be outfitted in full personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriate for the particular incident and possible rescue situation that may arise. B. The RIT shall have all gear donned and be ready for immediate action.

Tools A. The RIT members shall have readily available to them the appropriate tools necessary for

Page 396 the particular incident at hand. Example Portable radio, lifeline, forcible entry tools, etc. B. A tool staging area should be set up with all available tools ready. Any other personnel other than the RIT team should not use the tools. C. The RIT should have an air supply ready for use for any trapped firefighters. D. The RIT should have access to a hose line in the event that one will be needed. E. The RIT leader should request any specialized rescue equipment that may be needed.

Position A. The leader of the unit designated, as the RIT shall upon arriving on location report to and remain at the command post unless otherwise directed by the IC. B. The entire Team shall remain near the command post or designated area from which they can be rapidly deployed. C. At large scale or unusual operations additional Teams may be positioned at additional locations as determined by the IC.

Duties A. The RIT leader shall develop a plan in the event that the team is needed. The plan should consist of team member’s duties and responsibilities. This plan will include a building/scene size up, (360), to familiarize themselves with layout of building and surrounding conditions. B. The RIT shall “stand fast” intact as a unit ready to take immediate action as directed by the IC. C. While standing fast the unit shall determine the location and availability of portable ladders and hose lines for future use if needed. D. The RIT may prep for a rescue by placing ladders, removing security bars, and other obstruction provided it does not interfere with their state of readiness. E. They shall determine the location of EMS personnel at the scene. F. Radio traffic should be monitored for any distress calls. G. The RIT shall maintain a state of constant readiness to react rapidly to the changing fire ground conditions.

Restrictions A. The RIT may not be used to provide relief for operating units until the fire has been declared out and the scene safe. The IC should anticipate this need and have other personnel available for this purpose. B. The RIT should not be used for firefighting. If the IC directs the RIT to perform duties other than those related to its distress duties, an additional RIT shall be designated or an additional company shall be immediately called in as the RIT.

Page 397 Fire Chief ______

Page 398 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0023 Fire Alarm Incidents Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose: To provide policy and guidelines that will ensure the safe and appropriate manner of dealing with and correcting fire alarm activation incidents.

Scope All fire department responses to fire alarm conditions

Guideline A. When responding to fire alarm activations, all personnel shall be in full personal protective equipment (PPE) including the self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) before exiting the apparatus. .

B. The following equipment will be ready for use and taken into the alarm building with each team.

• Thermal imaging camera

• Hand light

• Forcible entry tool / Irons tool (Flat head axe combined with the Haligan tool)

C. Incident Command (I.C.) will determine whether forcible entry will be necessary if the building is unoccupied, locked and there is no key holder on the premises.

D. If the building is occupied, it must be evacuated immediately.

Page 399 E. Once entry has been made, and no fire and/or smoke conditions are present in the area, the fire alarm panel should be checked for the approximate area of the fire alarm and should be silenced by the officer or crew member in charge.

F. A complete walk through of the entire building will be conducted to determine there is no problem, all attic space shall be checked and cleared visually also.

G. Once the crews have checked the building and have determined there is no problem other than a false alarm, all personnel shall exit the building. Incident Command (I.C.) shall make sure the building has been re-secured, turned over to the property owner and/or manager, or turned over to the Police Officer on the scene.

H. Activated detectors should be pointed out to building owner or representative so it may be repaired.

I. If zone can be isolated to a small area leave silenced in alarm condition to prevent a reactivation until detector or device is repaired and place the Foothills Fire Department Sprinkler/Fire Alarm System sticker on the panel.

J. If leaving zone silenced will inhibit proper coverage of the alarm system to protect the premise then a system reset can be performed to place the system back in service. If fire protection system is down, or out of service the key holder or building owner/representative shall ensure a fire watch is in place up until the fire protection service for the building is restored.

K. Try and give a reason for the activated smoke detector such as age, lack of maintenance, or improper placement if possible.

L. If responding units are stood down at hall or on route to an alarm call, the responding units will continue with the call with a cold response to investigate and verify the stand down order.

Fire Chief ______

Page 400 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0024 Extrication / Rescue Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose: To provide guidance for operations at incidents requiring extrication/rescue, and in the use of Extrication tools. This S.O.G. applies to all such tools that will be used for extrication and rescue activities.

Scope – This guideline pertains to all motor vehicle extrication performed by the Foothills Fire Department.

General Considerations A. All extrication tools shall be operated in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. This should provide the most efficient and safest operation for all people involved.

B. Full personal protective equipment should be worn during all extrication activities. (SCBA's will only be worn as needed)

C. Personnel who enter the inner circle shall wear the appropriate eye protection, whether it is the helmet face shield or goggles.

D. All personnel that are involved or may become involved shall wear protection from possible blood-borne diseases.

E. A factory-authorized and/or a qualified repair person shall perform extrication tool repair and maintenance.

F. The safety of all personnel must be exercised at all times.

G. Exposed jagged and/or sharp edges shall be padded.

H. Use caution when disconnecting or cutting the battery cables.

I. To help prevent injury, don't put yourself between the tool and the vehicle when performing the extrication.

Page 401

Operations A. Upon arrival at the scene, a scene size-up will be conducted. There are some key concepts that shall be considered prior to starting the extrication: • Inner and outer survey, Fluid spills (fuel) • Tool staging, Stabilizing the vehicle • Accessing/number of the patients, Glass removal • Full/Partial removal of roof, Dash roll/lift maneuvers • Numbering of vehicles, Steering wheel displacement • Vehicles energized (Power lines)

B. The first action is to stabilize the vehicle(s). All vehicles involved in extrication shall be stabilized, if situation dictates.

C. Stabilization should be checked frequently to ensure it has not changed since the last operation occurred (Lift an Inch – Crib and Inch).

D. Tools will be placed in convenient location. (Tool Cache)

E. Extrication activities shall be coordinated with EMS personnel.

F. At the I.C. Discretion proper fire suppression / extinguishing deployment should be performed.

G. Members that operate tools should rotate frequently if they feel they are tiring, or if another member feels they need relief. It is not safe to operate extrication tools for an extended period of time.

H. When using the hydraulic tools, operate as per Manufacturers Instruc tions.

Post Extrication/Rescue A. When back in quarters, all tools shall be cleaned using soap and warm water. Ensure PPE is worn while cleaning tools. Check for glass and debris in the boots on the tools. After cleaning, they shall be sprayed with the proper lubricant and then placed back on the truck.

B. Ensure the hydraulic hoses are cleaned properly and inspected during cleaning.

C. Hydraulic tools should be stored properly, according to Manufacturers Instructions.

D. Always watch for blood on the tools and cribbing. If blood is present, clean it as per Blood-born pathogens SOG

E. Ensure that all gas-powered pumps are refueled and that the fuel can is full of fresh gas.

Page 402

Fire Chief ______

Page 403 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0025 Landing Stars Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose: This guideline is to set a standard to land medi-vac helicopters at locations other than approved heliports.

Scope – This guideline should be utilized whenever a medi-vac helicopter will be landing at a location other than an approved heliport.

Medivac Requests A. Requests for medi-vac helicopter can be made by police, firefighters, EMT’s and paramedics.

B. A medi-vac may be put on standby, although standbys do not take priority over immediate response requests.

Landing zones Refer to STARS scene team manual S:\FIRE SERVICES\stars-scene-team-manual-2011.pdf

Safety Refer to STARS scene team manual S:\FIRE SERVICES\stars-scene-team-manual-2011.pdfal-2011.pdf

Communications with helicopter A. The senior fire officer or his designee shall make all communications with the helicopter on the scene. He/she shall be identified as The Landing Zone Coordinator on the Stars Frequency

B. No one other that the assigned Landing Zone Coordinator shall communicate with the helicopter.

C. When the helicopter is about 5 minutes away from the landing zone the helicopter will contact the LZ coordinator and request information on the selected LZ. At this time the • LZ coordinator shall supply the following information. • Exact landing location. Use compass points from major intersections or landmarks. • Wind direction and approximate speed.

Page 404 • Landing zone hazards and their location such as overhead wires, poles, trees, etc.

D. Upon arriving over the landing zone the helicopter shall circle several times to allow the pilot to orient himself with the landing area. Once satisfied he shall notify the LZ coordinator that they will be landing.

E. Prior to departure the pilot shall again contact the LZ coordinator to advise of same. At this time the LZ coordinator shall advise whether all personnel are clear of the helicopter and advise that the pilot is clear to take off.

Fire Chief ______

Page 405 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0029 Care, Use and Service testing of Fire hose Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal

To have in place a policy that deals with care, use, and service testing of fire department fire hose and nozzles to ensure their operational readiness. Refer to NFPA 1962.

Scope:

To prepare a procedure for

1) The care and use of the fire hose

2) The inspection of nozzles and couplings

3) The washing of fire hose

4) Hose identification and record keeping

5) Service testing for fire hose – 1x/year

Fire hose is a critical tool that ensures the safety of firefighters. It is paramount that all members take an active and sincere role in the care, use and service testing of fire department fire hose.

Care and Use of Fire Hose

Hose carries on fire apparatus shall be loaded so that air can circulate under the hose load to eliminate or reduce the growth of mildew in the hose jackets and rust and corrosion in the hose compartment. Only clean, dry hose shall be placed into service. Wet hose accelerates mildew growth and rusting and shall be thoroughly dried before placed in service.

Page 406 Fire hose that has been frozen during use shall be thawed, dried and put back into service or storage.

After each use and before being placed in storage or back in service, the hose shall be drained, cleaned, dried and inspected

Care shall be taken to avoid dragging the hose. If the hose must be dragged, it shall be dragged flat.

Physical inspection shall decide that the hose, couplings and any nozzle have not been vandalized are free of debris and exhibit evidence of mildew, rot, or damage by chemicals, burns, cuts and abrasion.

If the hose fails the physical inspection, it shall be tagged with the nature of the defect and removed from service, repaired as necessary and service tested and reported to the duty officer

If the hose is frozen then all precautions should be taken to ensure that the hose does not have sharp bends and is handled carefully as to not break or damage the hose.

Inspection of Nozzles and Couplings

All nozzles shall be inspected at least annually and after each use. The nozzle inspection shall include verification of the following

a) Clear of obstructions in waterway

b) No damage to tip c) Full operation of adjustments such as pattern selection, etc

d) Proper operation of shut off valve, if so equipped

e) Thread and gaskets are in good condition

If the nozzle fails inspection for any reason, it shall be removed from service and repaired or replaced and reported to on duty officer.

Care shall be taken to avoid dents or nick in nozzle tips, as these can seriously affect the reach of the stream. To prevent mechanical damage, nozzles shall be handled with care. Nozzle shall not be dropped or thrown.

Couplings shall be kept in serviceable condition. After each use, and during each hose service test, they shall be visually inspected for the following: a) Damaged threads

b) Corrosion

Page 407 c) Slippage on the hose

d) Out of round

e) Swivel not rotating freely

f) Missing lugs

g) Loose or external collar

h) Internal gasket

i) Other defects that impair operation

Defective couplings shall be removed from service and repaired or replaced and reported to the On-Duty Officer.

Care shall be taken not to drop the coupling on pavement or other hard surfaces that may cause damage to the swivel section or exposed threads.

Care shall be taken to prevent vehicle driving over couplings

The thread gaskets in couplings and nozzles shall be inspected for presence, tight fit, and lack of deterioration. If defective, it shall be replaced with a new gasket.

Washing of Fire Hose

After each use, all hose shall be inspected and cleaned if necessary. If the dirt cannot be thoroughly brushed from it or if it has come into contact with harmful materials, the hose shall be washed.

For washing, use a scrub brush and mild soap or detergent and water. A mechanical washer can be used where hose is used frequently or the number of hose lengths to be washed is great.

All hose shall be drained and thoroughly dried before being placed in service. Hose shall not be dried on hot pavement or under intense light.

Hose Bedding Procedure

PRE-CONNECTED LOADS The two transverse beds will be loaded in the following manner: 200’ of 44mm – Triple layer loads in the upper and lower transverse hose beds.

SUPPLY LOADS Supply loads for each apparatus shall be flat loads using 100mm Hi-vol and length according to the NFPA standard.

Page 408

TRASH LINE LOADS The trash line will be loaded as a flat load using 100’ of rubber 38mm.

NOTE: ALL COUPLINGS LAID IN A MANNER THAT WILL ALLOW THEM TO PAY OUT WITHOUT HAVING TO FLIP OVER

Hose identification and record keeping

Each length of hose shall be assigned an identification number for use in recording its history throughout its service life. The identification number shall be stenciled on the jacket cover. The identification number may be stamped on the coupling.

Out of service hose shall be properly tagged with the reason for removal from service noted on the tag. This tag may also include information required for inclusion on the permanent hose record and reported to the On-Duty Officer.

Personal responsibility for the repair and maintenance of fire hose shall ensure that a report of the work performed to repair each length of hose is recorded on the permanent hose record at each station.

Service Testing for Fire Hose

Refer to NFPA 1962.

All fire hose service testing information shall be recorded on the “Fire Hose Service Testing Form”, the information will be entered into a computer data base system.

All hose that is to be disposed of shall be recorded and placed in a designated area for disposal.

All hose that requires repair shall be straight rolled and stored with the male coupling on the outside. A tag will be fastened to the hose indicating the name, regimental number and nature of repair. A piece of surveyor’s tape will be fastened to the hose marking the general location of the hose repair.

Fire Chief ______

Page 409 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0030 Use of Fire Hydrants Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal

To have in place a policy that deals with the use of fire hydrants.

Scope:

To prepare a procedure for

1. The care and use of fire hydrants

2. The inspection of fire hydrants (operability only)

3. Hydrant identification, location and record keeping

Important information

a) Notify appropriate hydrant maintenance provider if defects are found during inspection or usage and notify Chief to follow up.

b) All calls take priority over hydrant Inspections.

c) Fax or email hydrant maintenance provider and notify the Deputy Fire Chief with information on problem hydrants as well as a copy of the hydrant report placed in the hydrant binder.

d) All completed inspections and repairs on private hydrants shall be communicated to the Deputy Fire Chief in writing.

Page 410

Information

1. If hydrants have an obstruction

a) Make a note and forward to Chief Staff

b) Fax a copy to hydrant maintenance provider.

c) If a problem requires immediate attention i.e. broken, not working, call Corix

Fire Chief ______

Page 411 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0032 Housekeeping Duties Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal

To have in place an effective housekeeping procedure that will ensure the neat and orderly appearance of the fire station

Scope:

To prepare a procedure for

a) Fire Station Housekeeping duties

The neat and clean appearance of the fire station and vehicles is important for public image with respect to the professional service we provide. All members are encouraged to tidy up after themselves and clean areas as needed.

Note: Each member is responsible for the general tidiness of their turnout gear rack. Turnout gear and coveralls must be hung from hooks supplied. Any other storage area above or below these racks must be kept neat and free of unused equipment. No other clothing or equipment will be stored in the turnout racks.

Station

1. The apparatus bay will be cleaned by:

a) Washing the floors

b) Cleaning the bay door windows

c) Cleaning the hose tower’ (if applicable).

d) Cleaning SCBA room/radio room/tool room

Page 412 e) Cleaning sinks and counter tops

f) Mopping floors and emptying garbage containers

1.2 The washrooms will be cleaned by:

a) Cleaning the sinks, counter tops, mirrors, urinals, toilets, mopping the floor and emptying the garbage containers

b) Removing smudges and stains from wall, light switches, doors, baseboards, etc.

1.3 The lounge/kitchen area will be cleaned by: (if applicable)

a) Cleaning the kitchen area counter tops/sink, wiping cupboards and mopping the floor

b) Cleaning the tables and vacuuming carpets

c) Removing smudges and stains from the stove, fridge, walls, light switches, doors, baseboards, etc.

d) Emptying and cleaning all garbage containers

e) Recycling outdated newsprint and magazines

f) Pulling out the fridge and stove to clean the floor properly

g) Dusting

1.4 The dormitory will be cleaned by: (if applicable)

a) Ensuring the beds are left in a neat appearance

b) Removing smudges and stains from walls, light switches, doors, baseboards, etc

c) Vacuuming the carpets

d) Dusting

1.5 The office areas will be cleaned by:

a) Emptying all garbage containers

b) Vacuuming the carpets

Page 413 c) Dusting pictures and other objects on the walls

d) Removing smudges and stains from walls, light switches, doors, baseboards, etc

e) Ensure all windows and ledges are clean

f) Dust desks, furniture, shelves and computers

1.6 The training room will be cleaned by:

a) Placing training aids in the appropriate storage locations

b) Cleaning the tables

c) Placing chairs neatly around or on the tables

d) Cleaning the white board

e) Leaving the training storage shelves in a neat and tidy condition

f) Emptying and cleaning all garbage containers

g) Removing smudges and stains from walls, light switches, doors, baseboards, etc

h) Vacuuming the carpets

i) Dusting

1.7 The front entrance will be cleaned by:

a) Replacing fire literature as required

b) Cleaning the windows

c) Sweeping the walkway

d) Damp mopping the area by the front door

e) Dusting

1.8 The outside areas (seasonal) will be completed by:

a) Watering the plants as required / removing weeds

Page 414 b) Removing snow as required from, walkways, concrete areas and in front of all apparatus bay doors and salting the walkways.

c) Complete a walk around the station for a garbage pick up

d) Grass to be cut as required (ensure excess grass clippings are picked up)

Fire Chief ______

Page 415 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0033 Emergency Deployment Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal

To have in place an effective Emergency Deployment Guideline that addresses response of apparatus, personnel and stations to an emergency incident.

Whenever possible, in all emergency situations all stations will respond with a minimum of 3 personal on an engine, minimum 2 personnel on a tender with the exception of 1 personal on a Tender only if following an engine to an emergency; 2 personnel on a bush with the exception of 1 personnel if following an Engine and or Tender who have met the requirments above. This also applies to Command vehicles (ie, FH1, FH2, FH4) which may respond with 1 personnel, if further units are responding from station(s).

Scope: To develop a procedure for an effective minimum response. This response guideline incorporates the minimum response of vehicles and stations to an emergency. The guideline does not assign a manpower commitment and or assignments.

General

The first in Officer, en-route, or at the scene of an emergency may request additional units or if conditions warrant the incident commander may return available units back to their station(s)

The closest appropriate emergency vehicles(s) shall be dispatched according to Standard Operating Procedures, or as requested. The Officer will make every attempt to maintain a minimum manning level for every call.

When the Foothills Fire Department resources have been overwhelmed, the incident commander may request mutual aid from another municipality or agency.

Page 416

As requested by the I.C. for all the following, as a minimum.

1. Large Structure Fire

Response areas where hydrants are available a) Engine b) 2 mutual aid engines c) Command d) Air Support

Response areas where hydrants are not available a) Engines & 2 mutual aid engines or as required by I.C. b) Tender & 2 mutual aid tenders as required by I.C c) Command e) Air Support

2. Small Structure Fire/All Vehicle Fires including Garbage Bin fires

Response areas where hydrants are available a) Engine b) Chief Officer (if requested by I.C.)

Response areas where hydrants are not available a) Engine b) Tender c) Chief Officer (if requested by I.C.)

3. Wildland Fire

a) Bush, additional Bush trucks as requested b) ATV’s as requested by command c) Tender, additional Tenders as requested d) Chief Officer (if requested by I.C.)

4. Alarm Bells

Response areas where hydrants are available a) Engine Note: If a high hazard exist or large amount of people are involved, add second engine

Response areas where hydrants are not available a) Engine

Page 417 b) Tender Note: If a high hazard exist or large amount of people are involved, add Command and a second engine

5. Smoke Smell/Gas Smell/ Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm

a) Engine b) Tender Note: If evacuation is required add Chief Officer

6. Rescue – Low Speed Motor Vehicle Collision

a) Engine b) Tender and/or Squad

7. Rescue – High Speed Motor Vehicle Collision (speed equal or greater than 60kmh)

a) Engine b) Rescue or second Engine c) Tender

8. Rescue – Water/Ice (urban)

a) Squad and boat and Mutual aid bush and aquatics (boat) b) Bush d) One (1) Chief Officer

9. Rescue – Water/Ice (rural)

a) Squad and boat and Mutual aid bush and aquatics (boat) b) Bush c) One (1) Chief Officer

10. Rescue – Collapse / Slope

a) Engine b) Squad or second engine c) Tender d) One (1) Chief Officer e) Additional resources as requested

Page 418 11. Hazardous Materials Release

a) Engine b) Tender c) One (1) Chief Officer

12. Aircraft Incident

a) Engine b) Squad or second engine c) Tender e) One (1) Chief Officer

13. Industrial plants, shopping centers, square, schools, apartment complexes

a) Engine b) Two (2) mutual aid engines c) One (1) aerial) e) One (1) Chief Officer

If buildings with sprinkler systems the first arriving engine will go to the location of the fire, the second engine will stand by at the Siamese connection and wait instructions for the officer to advise whether to hook to the Siamese

14. Large truck wrecks a) Engine b) Squad or second engine as requested c) Tender d) Chief Officer, or as requested

While en route, the Officer in Charge will request information from the dispatcher about the truck’s cargo. If unable to find out this information, stop the engine at a safe distance from the truck until you determine what is in the truck.

If hazardous materials are involved attempt to obtain a Bill of Lading or ERG for the material. Notify the Dispatcher and the Chief and follow the instructions in the latest Emergency Response Guidebook. The primary role of the Fire Department in such as incident is to ensure the health and safety of the public and members of the Department and try to contain the incident to prevent more damage.

Page 419 Units will respond and be positioned uphill and upwind or safest location possible. The assigned crew shall evacuate the area and eliminate ignition sources. If the gas leak cannot be terminated, the service provider shall be notified. The crew will also ventilate the structure if the leak is inside a building. All personnel shall wear full PPE

15. Propane or natural gas leaks a) Engine b) Tender c) Chief Officer or as requested

Units will respond and be positioned uphill and upwind or in the safest location possible. The assigned crew shall evacuate the area and eliminate ignition sources. If the gas leak cannot be terminated, the service provider shall be notified. The crew will also ventilate the structure if the leak is inside a building. All personnel shall wear full PPE

16. Propane or natural gas fire a) Engine and Two (2) mutual aid engines b) Tender c) One (1) Chief Officer

Units will respond and be positioned uphill and upwind or the safest location possible. The engine will provide attack lines and the second engine will be deployed as ordered by the Officer in Charge.

The service provider shall be notified. Attempt will be made to terminate the source of gas. If the gas cannot be shut off, do not extinguish the fire at the source. If the fire is fed by propane gas and the tank is involved, the tank shall be cooled if necessary. Full PPE is required.

17. Energized electrical incidents (downed wires) a) Engine b) Tender

Assess the incident, isolate area, and protect the public. Make certain that the power company has been notified. At no time will Fire Department personnel attempt to move energized electrical wires.

Page 420 18. Energized electrical fire (transformer) a) Engine b) Tender

Units will respond from the station in the area. Park the fire apparatus a safe distance away from the fire. Isolate area, deny entry, establish safety zone and wait for the Electric System to turn the power off. Do not attempt to extinguish with power still on.

19. Explosives and bomb threats

a) Engine b) Tender b) One (1) Chief Officer

Units will respond from Station on non-emergency unless notified otherwise by the Officer in Charge. After arrival there will not be any more radio traffic until the scene has been declared safe. Position engine a safe distance. Isolate the area; protect the public. The primary role of the Fire Department in such an incident is to assist the Police in the search of the building, ensure the health and safety of the public, and to prepare for fire protection in the event of an explosion. All personnel shall wear full PPE. SCBA is not required unless ordered by the Officer in Charge.

Fire Chief ______

Page 421 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0034 Responding to a Structure Fire Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal: To have in place, effective response guidelines for a Structure Fire that address the minimum response

Scope: To develop a procedure for an effective response for a structure fire.

Note: This guideline does not include manpower commitment and assignments

General

The incident commander may, en-route, or at the scene of an emergency request additional units or if conditions warrant the incident commander may return available units back their station. The closest appropriate emergency vehicle(s) shall be dispatched according to Standard Operating Procedures, or as requested by the Incident Commander. The Incident Commander will make every attempt to maintain a minimum manning level for the call. When the Foothills Fire Department resources have been overwhelmed, the Incident Commander may request mutual aid from another municipality or agency.

Response

1. Upon a receipt of a call for a structure fire either by telephone, walk in, or dispatch, the person that is designated shall acknowledge the call. Ensure mutual aid has been dispatched and notify the Chief Officer.

2. The first in engine will recognize or establish a water supply while committing resources to the fire.

3. All appropriate Personal Protective Equipment shall be worn at all structural fires. If the person does not have the equipment than they are to remain in a non-combat role.

4. All members working in or close to the fire/smoke/harmful gases shall don SCBA (go on air)

5. All members should be on the lookout for possible perpetrators of the structure fire.

Page 422 6. Ensure a MAFP 1244 is completed after the fire if there is any dollar loss, along with the incident report. All paperwork that is generated including faxes shall be retained for the investigation file.

7. Ensure the RCMP receives a copy of all investigation documents. (If requested)

8. Ensure the Chief Officer and or Investigator receives the original investigation report. A copy of the investigation report will remain on file. A Chief Officer is to review and acknowledge investigation reports.

9. Atmosphere checks of the Hazardous gas levels to be added on report before SCBA‘s are removed. Use monitor for detecting Hydrogen Cyanide

10. An Incident Safety Officer needs to be designated and operational through to the conclusion of all operations if manning allows.

11. Accountability always needs to be in place during all operations.

Fire Chief ______

Page 423 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0035 Responding to a Wildland Fire Location: All Stations

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: James Smith Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: 3/1/2017

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal

To have in place, effective response guidelines for a Wildland Fire that addresses the minimum response.

Scope:

To develop a procedure for an effective response for a wildland fire.

Note: This guideline does not include manpower commitment and assignments

General

The Incident Commander may, enroute, or at the scene of an emergency request additional units or if conditions warrant the Incident Commander may return available units back to their station. The closest appropriate emergency vehicle(s) shall be dispatched according to Standard Operating Procedures, or as requested by the Incident Commander. The Incident Commander will make every attempt to maintain a minimum manning level in station for the call. When the Foothills Fire Department resources have been overwhelmed, the Incident Commander may request mutual aid from another Municipality or from an outside agency.

Wildland Fire Calls

1. Upon a receipt of a call for a wildland fire either by telephone, walk in, or dispatch the person that is designated shall acknowledge the call.

2. The first in unit will establish command, size up the fire and dispatch more resources if they are required.

Page 424 3. Remember LACES (Lookouts, Anchor Points, Communication, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones)

4. Try to observe/survey for water supplies early in the incident. (rivers, ponds, sloughs, hydrants, water tenders etc.)

5. All appropriate Personal Protective Equipment shall be worn at all wildland fires. If the person does not have the equipment then they are to remain in a non-combat role (i.e. coveralls, helmet, leather gloves, steel toed boots).

6. If in doubt of the products of combustion, then all members working in or close to the fire/smoke/harmful gases shall don SCBA (go on air) or appropriate respiratory protection.

7. All members should be on the lookout for possible perpetrators of the wildland fire.

8. Ensure a MAFP 1244 is completed after the fire if there is any dollar loss, along with the incident report. All paperwork that is generated including faxes shall be retained for the investigation file.

9. Note: Foothills County Public Works Department has water tenders that can be acquired through FRESC Dispatch.

10. ATV’s are available through Longview Station, Blackie Station, Spruce Meadows Station, High River Fire Department, Claresholm Fire Department and Redwood Meadows Emergency Services.

11. Contract fire suppression units are available through the Duty Officer

12. Structural Protection Units or sprinkler trailers are available from Rockyview, Banff, Clearwater County, and the Fire Commssioner’s Office.

Fire Chief ______

Page 425 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0036 Responding to a Vehicle Fire Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal: To have in place, effective response guidelines for a vehicle fire that addresses the minimum response.

Scope: To develop a procedure for an effective response for a vehicle fire.

Note: This guideline does not include manpower commitment and assignments.

General

The Incident Commander may, enroute, or at the scene of an emergency request additional units or if conditions warrant the Incident Commander may return available units back their station. The closest appropriate emergency vehicle(s) shall be dispatched according to Standard Operating Procedures, or as requested by the Incident Commander. The Incident Commander will make every attempt to maintain a minimum manning level for every call. When the Foothills Fire Department resources have been overwhelmed, the Incident Commander may request mutual aid from another Municipality or outside agency.

Response

1. Upon a receipt of a call for a vehicle fire either by telephone, walk in, or dispatch the person that is designated shall acknowledge the call.

2. The first in unit will size up the fire and dispatch more resources if they are required.

3. All appropriate Personal Protective Equipment shall be worn at all vehicle fires. If the person does not have the equipment than they are to remain in a non-combat role.

4. All members working in or close to the fire/smoke/harmful gases shall don SCBA (go on

Page 426 air) or appropriate respiratory protection.

5. All members should be on the lookout for possible perpetrators of the vehicle fire, if found to be suspicious in nature. Ensure RCMP are notified for any suspicious fire.

6. Ensure a MAFP 1244 is completed after the fire if there is any dollar loss, along with the incident report. All paperwork that is generated including faxes shall be retained for the investigation file.

Highway Calls

1. Ensure a safe work area by deploying flag personal, pylons and parking apparatus in a fend off position

2. Ensure Alberta Transportation and Infrastructure (AT&I), receives an incident report. The original copy of the investigation report will remain on file.

3. Vehicle fires occurring on all non highways within the county where damage has occured to the roadway because of the fire, the Foothills county Public works shop will be notified of the incident.

Fire Chief ______

Page 427 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0037 Responding to a Dumpster Fire Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal: To have in place, effective response guidelines for a dumpster fire that addresses the minimum response

Scope: To develop a procedure for an effective response for a dumpster fire.

Note: This guideline does not include manpower commitment and assignments

General

The Incident Commander may, enroute, or at the scene of an emergency request additional units or if conditions warrant the Incident Commander may return available units back their station. The closest appropriate emergency vehicle(s) shall be dispatched according to Standard Operating Procedures, or as requested by the Incident Commander. The Incident Commander will make every attempt to maintain a minimum manning level for every call. When the Foothills Fire Department resources have been overwhelmed, the Incident Commander may request mutual aid from another Municipality or outside agency.

Response

1. Upon a receipt of a call for a dumpster fire either by telephone, walk in, or dispatch the person that is designated shall acknowledge the call.

2. The first in unit will size up the fire and dispatch more resources if they are required.

3. All appropriate Personal Protective Equipment shall be worn at all dumpster fires. If the

Page 428 person does not have the equipment than they are to remain in a non-combat role.

4. All members working in or close to the fire/smoke/harmful gases shall don SCBA (go on air) or appropriate respiratory protection.

5. All members should be on the lookout for possible perpetrators of the dumpster fire, if found to be suspicious in nature. Notify RCMP if the fire is suspicious.

6. Ensure a MAFP 1244 is completed after the fire if there is any dollar loss, along with the incident report. All paperwork that is generated including faxes shall be retained for the investigation file.

7. If dispatch advises a structure is threatened from the fire (within 3m – 10ft) then upgrade to a structure fire response.

Fire Chief ______

Page 429 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0038 Responding to Alarm Bells / Catalog Alarms Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal To have in place an effective response guideline for Alarm Bells/Catalog Alarms that addresses the minimum response.

Scope To develop a procedure for an effective response for Alarm Bells/ Catalog Alarms Note: This guideline does not include manpower commitment and assignment.

General The Incident Commander may, enroute or at the scene of an emergency request additional units or if conditions warrant the Incident Commander may return responding units back to their station. The closest appropriate emergency vehicle(s) shall be dispatched according to Standard Operating procedures, or a requested by the Incident Commander. The Incident Commander will make every attempt to maintain a minimum manning level for every call. When the Foothills Fire Department resources have been overwhelmed, the Incident Commander may request mutual aid from another Municipality or agency.

Procedure Upon receipt of a call for alarm bells either by telephone, walk in, or dispatch the person that is designated shall acknowledge the call. The standard response for alarm bells/catalog alarms shall be at a minimum, 1 engine. The engine will respond hot, while the tender as required by the I.C. will respond hot as wellor as directed by Officer or I.C..

Page 430 The first arriving unit shall give an update to dispatch, check for lock boxes, and ask for more resources if required.

In the event that an alarm is called back as a false alarm by an alarm company or the occupant, a single unit will respond cold (no lights, sirens) to verify address, location, residents name, contact info and reason for alarm.

The officer will conduct a 360 size up of the structure to ascertain the nature of the alarm bells and to locate a fire department lock box.

If upon observation into the structure the I.C. sees smoke, flame or an emergency, the Officer may order forced entry. If nothing is observed, then forced entry will not be established. The keys in the lock box are to be used to gain entry if nothing is found.

The Officer may choose to wait for a key holder to arrive on scene. If above ground floors cannot be observed and the alarm bells are activated, forced entry may be required.

All appropriate Personal Protective Equipment shall be worn to all alarm bells calls.

If the person (RCMP, EMS, etc.) does not have the appropriate equipment then they are to remain in a non-combat role.

All members expected to be working in or close to the fire /smoke/harmful gases shall done SCBA or appropriate respiratory protection.

If alarm bells can be acknowledged, then the I.C. or his designate can acknowledge the alarms. In no case shall the panel be reset until the nature of the alarm activation can be verified or ruled out.

If the owner / occupant are able to reset the alarm panel; then notify dispatch.

If the alarm panel does not reset, recheck for the cause of the alarm then try to reset one more time. If upon the second reset and the panel still does not reset then “card” the system. Notify dispatch that the system has been carded and leave the premises in the hands of the building or business owner/occupant.

Fire Chief ______

Page 431 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0039 Responding to a Motor Vehicle Collision Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal: To have in place, effective response guidelines for a motor vehicle collision that addresses the minimum response

Scope: To develop a procedure for an effective response for a motor vehicle collision.

Note: This guideline does not include manpower commitment and assignments

General

The Incident Commander may, enroute, or at the scene of an emergency request additional units or if conditions warrant the Incident Commander may return available units back their station. The closest appropriate emergency vehicle(s) shall be dispatched according to Standard Operating Procedures, or as requested by the Incident Commander. The Incident Commander will make every attempt to maintain a minimum manning level in town for every call. When the Foothills Fire Department resources have been overwhelmed, the Incident Commander may request mutual aid from another Municipality or agency.

Response

1. Upon a receipt of a call for a motor vehicle collision either by telephone, walk in, or dispatch the person that is designated shall acknowledge the call.

2. All appropriate Personal Protective Equipment shall be worn at all motor vehicle collisions.

3. All members working in or close to the fire/smoke/harmful gases as a result of the MVC shall don SCBA (go on air) or appropriate respiratory protection.

Page 432 4. Ensure proper documentation is completed. All paperwork that is generated including faxes shall be retained for the investigation file.

5. Traffic vest or traffic jackets shall be worn at all motor vehicle collisions.

6. Be aware of traffic at all times.

7. Do not expect other motorists to see you when walking close to the drive lane.

8. Staff ensures that the fire / rescue report billing form is filled out. Find and document insurance, registration, and driver’s license.

9. Make notes on anything that is not normal on scene.

10. Traffic management shall be set up according to the Foothills Fire Department training manual.

11. Provide an area for EMS and RCMP to park.

Fire Chief ______

Page 433 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0040 Responding to an Aircraft Incident Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal: To have in place, effective response guidelines for an Aircraft incident that addresses the minimum response

Scope: To develop a procedure for an effective response for an Aircraft incident

Note: This guideline does not include manpower commitment and assignments

General

The Incident Commander may, enroute, or at the scene of an emergency request additional units or if conditions warrant the Incident Commander may return available units back their station. The closest appropriate emergency vehicle(s) shall be dispatched according to Standard Operating Procedures, or as requested by the Incident Commander. The Incident Commander will make every attempt to maintain a minimum manning level for every call. When the Foothills Fire Department resources have been overwhelmed, the Incident Commander may request mutual aid from another Municipality or agency.

Response

1. Upon a receipt of a call for an Aircraft Incident either by telephone, walk in, or dispatch the person that is designated shall acknowledge the call.

2. The first in unit will size up the incident and give an update to dispatch with a request for more resources if they are required.

3. Ensure RCMP and Transport Canada are notified of the incident.

Page 434 4. Rescue and life safety are first priority

5. The second priority is fire control and or environmental protection

6. The third priority is scene security. This is a federal incident and requires a federal agency to investigate the scene. The RCMP will be notified and requested to attend

7. All appropriate Personal Protective Equipment shall be worn at all Aircraft Incidents. If the person does not have the equipment than they are to remain in a non-combat role.

8. All members working in or close to the fire/smoke/harmful gases shall don SCBA (go on air) or appropriate respiratory protection.

9. The officer or his designate shall complete the aircraft incident form and submit copies to the RCMP and Transport Canada. All other paperwork and pictures that are generated from this incident needs to be retained for the investigation file.

Fire Chief ______

Page 435 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0041 Command Procedures Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal

To establish a systematic and effective procedure during operations that will ensure the safety and efficient utilization of responding personnel, apparatus and equipment. This procedure shall apply to all responses within the Foothills Fire Department response area.

Scope:

The effective functioning of the Fire Department units and personnel at operating incident requires clear, decisive action on the part of the Incident Commander. This procedure fixes responsibility for the command function and its associated duties on one individual at any time during the operation. The Incident Commander is responsible for the command functions at all times. As the identity of the Incident Commander changes through transfers of command, this responsibility shifts with the title. The term “Command” in this procedure refers jointly to both the person and the function.

This policy identifies the standard operating procedures to be employed in establishing Command and operating a Command Post following the three command priorities.

Command Priorities: 1. Life Safety 2. Fire Control 3. Propety Conservation

Page 436

Outline

The first Fire Department unit or member to arrive at the scene of an incident shall assume command and remain in command until relieved by a higher-ranking member/officer or until incident is terminated.

Incident Command shall set up a command post which is clearly visible to responding units and should, if possible, have an unrestricted view of the incident scene.

The person assuming command shall transmit a brief initial report including:

a) Unit identification on the scene and confirming assumption of command

b) Obvious conditions:

- Nothing Showing (Investigative mode).

- Smoke Showing

- Working Fire (attack mode).

All responding units shall report to the command post and receive direction from the Incident Commander.

Responding personnel shall stay with their apparatus until they are assigned duties.

All directional communications from the Command Post shall be passed to personnel via their Company Officer.

A company officer may assign his company members to another company to work under the command of the officer of that company. In such cases, the officer must communicate with the receiving officer and indicate the assignment of his personnel.

Page 437 Transfer of Command

The arrival of a higher-ranking officer at an incident scene does not mean command has been transferred to that ranking officer. Command is transferred only when the outlined communication functions have been completed or when warranted.

When attending incidents beyond the boundaries of the Foothills Fire Department response area the first arriving senior officer may assume command after transfer of command procedures have been completed.

Arriving ranking officer assuming command will communicate with the officer being relived face to face upon arrival.

The officer being relieved will brief the officer assuming command indicating the following: a) General situation status

- Fire location, extent, conditions, extension

- Effectiveness of control efforts a) Deployment and assignments of operating companies

- Appraisals of needs for additional resources at all times

Officer assuming command will notify all resources and dispatch of the command change.

The response and arrival of ranking officers on the incident scene strengthens the overall command functions. All officers will exercise their command prerogatives in a supportive manner that will ensure a smooth transition and the effectiveness of ongoing function of command. The officer relieved of command will be utilized to best advantage by the officer assuming command.

Page 438 Command Responsibilities

Command is responsible for the following tasks a required by circumstances of the situation within their judgment:

INITIAL:

1. Assume an effective command position

2. Transmit a brief initial radio report

3. Rapidly evaluate situation (size up)

4. Assign units as required

CONTINUING:

1. Provide continuing overall command

2. May assign sectors (situationally specific)

3. Review and evaluate attack efforts and revise plan of attack as needed

4. Provide and update to dispatch as the incident progresses

5. Request and assign additional units as necessary

6. Return units to service and terminate command

Only one person can be in command. Contradictory orders must be avoided

Fire Chief ______

Page 439 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0042 Command Deployment Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal To have an established guideline for the deployment of Duty Officers to a given incident. This guideline does not preclude the Senior Officer from attending calls based on general interest or concern

General On Call Duty Officers or designate will attend the following type of calls: - All high-density housing or high hazard alarm bells (if required).

- MVC – high speed collisions or trapped patients

- Smoke or Fire calls

- Large Hazmat calls

- Call escalation / accountability (STARS, RCMP etc)

- Rail / Air incidents

- A mass casualty incident (MCI)

- To provide scene safety (as required).

- To provide incident calming (as required).

Fire Chief ______

Page 440 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0043 Fire Apparatus Occupant Safety Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal: Safety of all personnel responding in all fire apparatus

Scope: All fire apparatus that is equipped with a passenger restraint device

General:

It is imperative to the health and safety of every apparatus occupant that they remain seated, with the provided seat belt properly attached until such time as the apparatus comes to a complete stop at the final destination. At no time should any occupant remove their seat belt while the vehicle is in motion.

Fire Chief ______

Page 441 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0044 Personal Protective Equipment Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Goal:

To have an established guideline for Personal Protective Equipment for departments.

General:

The Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Program is designed to protect employees from the risk of injury by creating a barrier against workplace hazards. Personal Protective Equipment is not a substitute for good engineering, administrative controls or good work practices, but should be used in conjunction with these controls to ensure the safety and health of employees. Personal Protective Equipment will be provided, used, and maintained when it has been determined that its use is required and that such use will lessen the risk of injury and/or illness.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Departments: Departments have the primary responsibility for implementation of the PPE Program in place.

This involves: • Providing appropriate PPE and making it available to all Firefighters. • Ensuring firefighters are trained on the proper use, care, and cleaning of PPE. • Maintaining records on PPE assignments and training. • Ensuring that the PPE Program elements are followed and that firefighters properly use and care for PPE. • Seeking assistance from the County of Foothills office to evaluate hazards.

Page 442 • Notifying the Safety Department when new hazards are introduced or when processes are added or changed. • Ensuring defective or damaged equipment is immediately replaced.

Firefighters: PPE users are responsible for: • Wearing PPE as required. • Attending required training sessions. • Caring for, cleaning, and maintaining PPE as required. • Informing the Captain of the need to repair or replace PPE.

HAZARD ASSESSMENT AND EQUIPMENT SELECTION:

Inspections of all tasks performed, and Fire Hall shall be performed to determine the need for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and to help in selecting the proper PPE for each task. For each area of the Hall, an inspection form must be completed which lists the findings of the inspection and the specific protective equipment needed.

The Safety Dept, in conjunction with Captains or designate, will conduct a walk-through survey of each area of the hall to identify sources of hazards, including impact, penetration, compression, chemical, heat, dust, electrical sources, material handling, ionizing radiation and light radiation. Each survey will be documented using a PPE Hazard Assessment Certification Form, which identifies the area surveyed, the person conducting the survey, findings of potential hazards, and date of the survey.

Once the hazards of an area have been identified, the Safety Dept. will determine the suitability of the PPE presently available and as necessary select new or additional equipment that Officers ensure an appropriate level of protection. Care will be taken to recognize the possibility of multiple and simultaneous exposure to a variety of hazards. Protection against the highest level of each of the hazards will be provided or recommended for purchase.

PROTECTIVE DEVICES:

All personal protective clothing and equipment will be of safe design and construction for the work to be performed and shall be maintained in a sanitary and reliable condition.

Careful consideration will be given to comfort and fit of PPE in order to ensure that it will be used.

Page 443

Protective devices are generally available in a variety of sizes. Care should be taken to ensure that the right size is selected.

HEARING PROTECTION:

Hearing protectors shall be: • Available to all firefighters exposed to an 8-hour time-weighted average of 85 decibels or greater • Replaced as necessary. • Worn by firefighters entering areas where noise levels are 85 dBA or greater.

Firefighters shall be given the opportunity to select their hearing protectors from a variety of suitable hearing protectors.

Training in the use and care of all hearing protectors shall be provided.

EYE AND FACE PROTECTION:

All persons who enter eye hazard areas shall wear protective eyewear. This includes firefighters, visitors, contractors, or others passing through an identified eye hazard area.

Suitable protectors shall be used when firefighters are exposed to hazards from flying particles, molten metal, acids or caustic liquids, chemical liquids, gases, or vapors, bioaerosols, or potentially injurious light radiation.

Prescription Safety Eyewear:

Personnel who wear prescription lenses while engaged in operations that involve eye hazards, shall wear eye protection that incorporates the prescription in its design, or shall wear eye protection that can be worn over the prescription lenses (i.e., goggles, faceshields) without disturbing the proper position of the prescription lenses or the protective lenses.

Emergency Eyewash Stations:

Page 444

Emergency eyewash stations shall be provided in all areas where an employee may be exposed to corrosive materials. Emergency eyewash stations shall be located where they are easily accessible.

HEAD PROTECTION:

Appropriate head protection will be provided to, and used by, all employees working in hazardous areas.

FOOT PROTECTION:

Foot Protection shall be worn in an area where there is a significant risk of foot injury due to falling or rolling objects, or objects piercing the sole, and where employee’s feet are exposed to electrical hazards.

HAND PROTECTION:

Suitable gloves shall be worn when hazards from chemicals, cuts, lacerations, abrasions, punctures, burns, biologicals, and harmful temperature extremes are present. Glove selection shall be based on performance characteristics of the gloves, conditions, duration of use, and hazards present.

Fall Protection:

Fall Protection shall:

- Be available and used by all firefighters who are working at heights of 3 meters or above, or firefighters who are working under 3 meters but above a fall hazard. - Be CSA approved equipment, which is to be inspected prior to use, and inspection documented. - Be used, only after completing a site-specific fall protection plan. - Be used only by personnel that are certified in the use of fall protection. - Be inspected by a 3rd party, annually. *Firefighters using fall protection in a non-emergency situation shall adhere to Part 9 (Fall Protection) of the code found in the Occupational Health and Safety manual.

*All supporting documentation for fall protection is to be kept for a minimum of 2 years.

Page 445 *If using fall protection in a different location other than a fixed location ex. Hose tower, then a hazard assessment must also be completed.

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE:

PPE shall be kept clean and properly maintained. PPE should be inspected, cleaned, and maintained at regular intervals so that the PPE provides the required protection. Personal Protective Equipment shall not be shared between employees until it has been properly cleaned and sanitized. PPE will be distributed for individual use whenever possible.

Contaminated PPE that cannot be decontaminated shall be properly disposed of in a manner that protects employees from exposure to hazards.

TRAINING:

Employees required to wear PPE shall receive training in the proper use and care of PPE.

Periodic retraining shall be offered to all employees. The training shall include the following subjects: • When PPE is necessary. • What PPE is necessary? • How to properly don, doff, adjust, and wear PPE. • The limitations of PPE. • The proper care, maintenance, useful life and disposal of the PPE.

Employees shall demonstrate that they understand the components of the PPE Program and how to use PPE properly.

RECORDKEEPING:

Written records shall be kept of the employees trained, the type of training provided, and the dates when training occurred.

Fire Chief ______

Page 446 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0052 Equipment testing Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Scope: As part of any safety program, the equipment provided to personnel must be fully understood as to the equipment’s limitations and uses and it must be in good functional condition. With this in mind, the FFD has established a program to ensure that all personnel are familiar with the uses, limitations, care, and maintenance of the apparatus and equipment.

The following procedures are to be implemented by each station for the purpose of inspecting and maintaining records on each piece of apparatus and equipment at their station:

1. Daily apparatus inspections shall be recorded on the proper form (Daily Apparatus Checklist).

2. Items needing action/repair from the Daily Apparatus Checklist will be recorded on the checklist and the station logbook. A separate Vehicle Maintenance Request Form will be completed for the required action/repair and e-mailed to the Deputy Fire Chief. The following will be included in the memo: • Action/repair needed • Vehicle number • Mileage and/or hours • Tag number • Person reporting and station number.

3. For equipment, a repair tag will be filled out and attached to the equipment. • The tag will have a brief and detailed description of the action/repair needed, name of the person reporting and the station number. • SCBAs must have the tag attached to the equipment.

4. All equipment (non-apparatus) shall be inventoried and inspected at least weekly. (In-house generated form).

Page 447

5. The Captain or Sr. Firefighter shall be notified of any equipment that is removed from any respective vehicles.

6. All nozzles and appliances are to be cleaned, washed, and exercised, preferably with water flowing to ensure operability. This should be completed during weekly truck checks.

7. Any equipment that is lost or damaged by a member must be reported to the Officer in charge and the proper paperwork is to be filled out by the member.

8. Any medical equipment that is transported to and left at a hospital that may not be revisited in a timely fashion must be reported to the Officer or Sr. Firefighter in charge.

MAINTENANCE PROGRAM

The proper and timely maintenance of all Fire Rescue apparatus and equipment is of the utmost importance in order to ensure proper operation and safety. The following shall govern apparatus and equipment maintenance:

1. All Fire Rescue equipment will participate in a preventive maintenance program. This maintenance is to help ensure efficient operation and safety.

2. In-station maintenance procedures will be developed for each type of in station equipment and appropriate maintenance schedules will be developed. Station officers will then be responsible for the in-station maintenance program.

3. All maintenance will be recorded on the equipment inventory/maintenance form for the involved equipment.

TESTING All Fire Rescue equipment will be tested at least annually or as often as necessary to ensure safety to personnel.

Page 448 The following policy is intended to standardize the hose loads, maintenance and testing on all apparatus in the Fire Rescue Division. There will be some instances where a particular hose load cannot be applied. If there are any questions as to which load to use or specific maintenance and/or testing procedures, the Captain for that station is to be contacted for direction.

Maintenance

All fire hose shall be maintained in accordance with NFPA Standard 1962 and the following policies apply. All hose will be clean before loading on the apparatus. In cases where it is not practical to clean the hose before loading it on scene, it shall be removed from the apparatus and cleaned upon return to the station. This policy applies to synthetic hose as well as cotton.

All hose left out to dry will not be left in the weather or on the floor longer than necessary. It should be rolled or loaded as soon as possible. When loading hose, gaskets should be checked, and in the case of supply line, lubricated as recommended/necessary. Supply and hand lines shall be removed, cleaned and reloaded every sixty days to facilitate changing the folds and increasing the life of the hose.

It is the intent of Administration that ALL hose be tested in accordance with NFPA 1962. Hose test records shall be maintained on each section of fire hose assigned to a station or its apparatus. It is vital that accurate and historically correct records be maintained.

Replacement and spare hose will be centrally stored and dispersed as needed. The storage of spare hose at fire stations shall be minimal. When hose needs repair, a repair tag/ticket will be filled out and attached to the hose with its hose card and sent to the repair facility.

Fire Chief ______

Page 449 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0055 Respiratory Protection Equipment Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose: To establish guidelines that address the safe use of respiratory protection equipment.

Guideline: The Foothills Fire Department provides respiratory protection for trained firefighters in the form of self- contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). This SCBA is approved and maintained under NFPA 1981 Standard on open-circuit, self-contained breathing apparatus for the fire service, for use in atmospheres that may be immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH).

When engaged in any operation where personnel could encounter atmospheres that are immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) or a potentially IDLH or where the atmosphere is unknown, the Foothills Fire Department shall require all members to use SCBA.

Firefighters shall be trained at least annually in the safe and proper use of respiratory protection equipment that they are authorized to use

Firefighters wearing SCBA shall be fully protected with all components of department issued or approved turnout gear including boots, pants, coat, gloves, and protective hood and helmet unless the Incident Commander deems otherwise.

An adequate reserve air supply shall be provided by reserve cylinders or by an on-scene refill capability, or both.

Respiratory protection equipment shall be stored in a ready for use condition and shall be protected from damage or exposure to rough handling, excessive heat or cold, moisture, and, or other elements.

Page 450 Personnel using SCBA shall not compromise the protective integrity of the SCBA for any reason when operating in IDLH, potentially IDLH, or unknown atmospheres by removing the face piece or disconnecting any portion of the SCBA that would allow the ambient atmosphere to be breathed.

When the Foothills Fire Department compresses its own breathing air, the fire department shall be required to provide documentation that a sample of the breathing air obtained directly from the point of transfer from the filling system to the SCBA cylinder has been tested at least once annually. Line bands will be applied to bottles once filling is complete, these line bands will be stamped with the fill date and where the bottle was filled. A record of this will also be kept in a book with the bottle number indicated.

The fit of the respiratory protection equipment of each new member shall be tested before the members are permitted to use respiratory protection equipment in a hazardous atmosphere. Only members with a properly fitting face piece shall be permitted by the Fire Department to function in a hazardous atmosphere with respiratory protection equipment.

The face piece seal capability of each member qualified to use respiratory protection equipment shall be verified by qualitative or quantitative fit testing on an annual basis and whenever new types of respiratory protection equipment of face pieces are issued.

Records of face piece fitting tests shall include at least the following information: (Fit testing will be done for each member).

• Name of member being tested. • Type of fitting test performed. • Specific make and model of face pieces tested • Pass/fail results.

Nothing shall be allowed to enter or pass through the area where the respiratory protection face piece is designed to seal with the face, regardless of the specific fitting test measurement that can be obtained.

Members who have a beard or facial hair at any point where the face piece is designed to seal with the face or whose hair could interfere with the operation of the unit shall not be permitted to use respiratory protection in hazardous or potentially hazardous atmospheres. These restrictions shall apply regardless of the specific fitting test measurement that can be obtained under test conditions.

When a member must wear spectacles when wearing respiratory protection, the face piece shall be fitted with spectacles in such a manner that they shall not interfere with the face piece to face seal.

Page 451 Spectacles with any strap or temple bars that pass through the face piece to face seal shall be prohibited.

Use of contact lenses shall be permitted during full face piece respiratory protection use, provided that the member has previously demonstrated successful long-term contact lens use.

Any head covering that passes between the sealing surface of the respiratory protection face piece and the member’s face shall be prohibited. The respiratory protection face piece and head harness straps shall be worn under the protective hoods. The respiratory protection face piece shall be worn under the head protection of any hazardous chemical protective clothing. Helmets shall not interfere with the respiratory protection face piece to face seal.

SCBA cylinders shall be hydrostatically tested as required by the manufacturers and applicable governmental agencies.

In service SCBA cylinders shall be stored fully charged, inspected regularly, and prior to filling according to manufacturers’ recommendations.

During filling of SCBA cylinders, all personnel and operators shall be protected from catastrophic failure of the cylinder.

PASS devices shall meet the requirements of NFPA 1982, standard on personal alert safety systems. Each member shall be provided with, use and activate his or her PASS devices in all emergency situations that could jeopardize that person’s safety due to atmospheres that could be IDLH, incidents that could result in entrapment, structural collapse of any type, or as directed by the Incident Commander or Incident Safety Officer.

PASS devices shall be tested at least weekly and prior to each use and shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Fire Chief ______

Page 452 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0056 Protective Clothing Usage Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose To assure that all personnel are prepared to safely begin fire or rescue operations immediately on arrival at an emergency scene.

Level of Performance To maintain the highest degree of personal safety for all department personnel. This guideline will apply to all personnel operating at the scene of any emergency incident or training exercise. As with any safety guideline, primary responsibility rests with each individual. Officers are responsible for enforcement of this guideline within their respective crews. Authority to deviate from this guideline rests with the officer who retains full responsibility for the results of any deviation.

For the purpose of this guideline, full protective clothing will consist of the following: A) Helmet with liner and face shield B) Turn-out coat with liner C) Turn-out pants with liner D) Boots E) Gloves F) Protective hood G) SCBA or safety glasses

Page 453 Protective clothing will be issued or approved by the Fire Department. Alterations to any equipment, such as the removal of coat or pant liner are prohibited. If the need for some alteration is needed, it must first be approved by the Foothills Fire Department.

Protective clothing will be used by all personnel according to the following guidelines. 1. Emergency operations will not begin until personnel have donned all necessary protective clothing. Personal safety will not be sacrificed in order to increase the speed of emergency operations. 2. Personnel will wear full protective clothing when responding to any type of alarm indicating fire, potential fire, explosion, potential explosion or release of any type of hazardous substance. Protective clothing will be donned prior to boarding apparatus. Full protective clothing is optional for the driver and Incident Command Officer or Captain during the response. Upon arrival to the incident the operator will don their protective clothing. However, the operator may leave his protective clothing off if there is no imminent danger, however he or she must be ready to don his clothing at any time. 3. Hearing protection shall be worn when using power tools. Hearing protection shall also be worn when in the area of operating power tools. 4. Full protective clothing shall be worn by all personnel operating power tools, hydraulic tools or forcible entry tools. Full protective clothing is also required for all personnel in an area where any of these tools are being used. 5. Personnel operating at the scene of an EMS or rescue incident will wear whatever equipment is necessary to assure personal safety during the incident. 6. Gloves will be worn at all times when hand tools, power tools, hose, ladders or other equipment is used that could cause injuries to the hands. This shall include all work details and training exercises. 7. Helmets with chin straps in place shall be worn by all personnel working in areas where there might be a possibility that tools; equipment or debris from above may fall. 8. Damage to protective clothing shall be immediately reported to the Captain. The Captain will inspect the damaged article and order it replaced or repaired if needed. 9. Incident Commanders may use their discretion to determine the appropriate level of protective clothing required for personnel working at incidents where no specific guidelines have been established.

Fire Chief ______

Page 454 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0057 Structure Fires Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

To provide a means of suppressing fires when they occur within a structure. To establish guidelines so that all personnel shall have a clear understanding of their responsibilities at the scene of a structure fire.

POLICY

These guidelines shall be followed whenever a fire occurs within a structure.

PROCEDURES

UPON ARRIVAL

1. The first in officer shall give a brief condition report following Blue Card Command training. • Number of stories. • Type of structure. • What is showing? • From what side the problem is showing? Ie. Alpha, Bravo, Charlie or Delta (alpha is the front or addressed side of the structure, clockwise to Bravo and so on). • Report on exposures.

Page 455 • Who is in command? 2. The first arriving officer shall take geographical command.

COMMUNICATIONS AND COORDINATION 1. Good communications and proper coordination are essential at structure fires. 2. The Incident Commander must provide the necessary coordination of the various fire ground activities. 3. The Incident Commander must communicate all instructions and vital information clearly to those who he is supervising.

TACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS: The Tactical objectives in fighting a structure fire shall be in order of priority as follows:

Rescue

• Human life is the most important consideration at a fire or other emergency. • Rescue of human lives override all other strategic considerations at a fire. • The primary functions of the engine crew shall be to rescue people if needed. • A primary and secondary search shall be conducted at all structure fires, when possible. Exposure Protection

• Exposure protection is the strategy of preventing a fire from spreading to the uninvolved building(s) or in involved parts of the fire building. • The first in Incident Commander shall be responsible for the initial protection of exposures. Confinement

• The strategy of confinement means preventing the fire from extending to uninvolved sections of the building.

• Whenever possible, the most effective method of confining fire spread is a direct attack on the fire.

Page 456 • The Incident Commander shall decide whether to make an offensive approach, or a defensive approach. There may situations when both approaches could be used.

• All avenues of fire spread must be considered example: shafts, openings, utility raceways, ducts etc.

• Where fires involve concealed spaces (facade, ceilings, construction voids, etc.) it becomes very important that the firefighters open such areas up and engine companies operate fire streams into such areas.

Ventilation

1. Based upon the situation, ventilation may need to occur anytime during the operation.

2. Ventilation shall be employed to:

• Channel heat, smoke and flames from potential victims.

• To prevent back draft and flashover.

• To remove heat and smoke from the building so to reduce property damage.

• To allow the interior of the structure to be more tenable and safer for firefighting operations.

Salvage

1. Salvage may need to begin at various points during a fire operation.

2. Salvage is those operations required to safeguard personal property, furnishings, and the unaffected portions of a structure from the effects of heat, smoke, fire and the weather.

3. Salvage shall include:

• The use of salvage covers.

• Removing water from the structure.

• Removing furniture and personal belongings to a safe location.

• Debris removal.

Page 457 • Removal of valuables from debris.

• Covering openings to keep weather out and to secure the building.

• All members are expected to perform in a manner that continually reduces loss during fire operations.

• Extinguishments

In most fire situations a quick and aggressive attack at the seat of the fire will take care of rescue, exposures, and confinement at the same time.

The size-up will provide information as to techniques, equipment and manpower needs to overcome the fire.

Overhaul

• The purpose of overhaul is to make sure the fire is completely out.

• Overhaul operations must be properly coordinated with fire investigation efforts.

• Unsafe conditions should be identified early in the overhaul process and definite efforts made to avoid the possible problems associated with the same.

• Personnel should not remove their breathing apparatus until the area is completely cleared of toxic gases.

• When available, a fresh crew should perform overhaul.

• Particular attention should be given to hidden areas during overhaul.

• During overhaul care should be given to protect personnel from exposure to carbon monoxide and other byproducts of combustion. The Carbon Monoxide Detector should be placed in the work area to monitor the CO Level until it drops below 50 parts per million (ppm).

Page 458 UTILITY CONTROL

• Utilities should be shut down and brought under control to ensure that they will not contribute to the fires spread, overall damage or create any type of safety hazard.

• At structure fires where electrical involvement or damage has occurred, request via radio the response of power providers.

• If the electric company is not available in time, fire personnel may shutdown the power.

• If necessary, shut down gas lines at the meter and have the appropriate gas company notified.

• If necessary, shut down water supplies to the structure at the valve closest to the point of usage.

SAFETY

Refer to NFPA 1521

• Safety is an important aspect of all fire ground operations. Accomplishing fire ground objectives in a safe manner helps reduce firefighter injuries and deaths.

• Members involved at structure fires shall wear appropriate protective clothing and self- contained breathing apparatus.

• Fire ground operations should not be carried out in a rush, but rather they should be accomplished at a reasonable pace, which allows for operations to be completed in a safe and efficient manner.

• Fire Officers must constantly be aware of both fire and structural conditions, which may deteriorate at a point and places firefighters in jeopardy.

• Indications of the possibility of structural collapse and/or other life-threatening occurrences shall be communicated to all personnel within the incidents perimeter and appropriate actions taken.

Page 459 LIFE SAFETY

• Life safety to firefighters and the public is the number one priority in all emergencies.

• Fire ground operations shall be coordinated and conducted in such a manner as to support life safety operations, which may be currently underway.

• Hose line placement and ventilation shall be coordinated so as affect a safe and efficient rescue operations.

• Use normal means of egress first e.g. halls, stairs.

• Aerial ladders, hand ladders, fire escapes are considered to be secondary means of egress.

• Provide for the care and medical needs of victims who have been removed from the fire building.

ON-SITE FIRE EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS

Utilize on-site fire protection equipment and systems to best advantage in accordance with the type of system and the fire situations.

Fire Chief ______

Page 460 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0058 Personnel Accountability System Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose:

Accountability is a critical element in the safety of all firefighters working on the fire ground. The purpose of the accountability system is to establish a coordinated system of monitoring and tracking personnel, and to enable the Incident Commander to identify, locate and account for the functions of all personnel operating on the scene. It also allows for a quick determination of what personnel may be in trouble and missing by virtue of unclaimed tags at the incident scene. Lastly, it assists with the decision-making process by making evident how many members are in staging and available for additional tasks. Each person involved in an incident must make a personal commitment to follow all policies and procedures regarding accountability.

Level of Performance: All firefighters participating in training evolutions or operating at an incident scene within the jurisdiction of the Foothills Fire Department, will actively participate in, and comply with the requirements The Foothills Fire Department Personnel Accountability System Standard Operating Guideline.

ACCOUNTABILITY BOARD/TAG USAGE

Upon boarding the apparatus for training or incident response, all personnel will place one accountability tag on the accountability board in the truck. And one tag will remain on their person, the apparatus will not leave the station until all rider tags are in place. The Officer should always remind all members to place tags on the Accountability Board immediately upon entering the apparatus to prevent confrontations.

The Board will remain with the vehicle in command or placed on the first in truck by the officer. Once a Chief Officer arrives on scene the white accountability board will be utilized.

Page 461

In the event that the IC, Officer, establishes an entry control point because of the presence of hazardous materials, an extended incident scene, or other factors, each person entering the area will provide the second additional accountability tag to the person responsible for accountability and place the tag on the accountability Board prior to entry. The second tag(s) will be removed or returned to the respective member upon leaving the hazard area or hot zone.

Upon completion of an assignment, the Officer or member in charge of the team will notify IC that the assignment has been completed and then report back to staging. No member shall freelance. All members assigned to a team will work together, stay together, and come back to staging together. The Officer or member in charge of the team is responsible for each member of that team. It is that person’s responsibility to report to the Officer and acknowledge the safe return of all crewmembers.

Every effort should be made to keep assigned teams together; however, if teams are re-assigned, their accountability tags shall be moved to that part of the board for the assigned group or operational area.

Personnel Accountability Reports (PAR) shall be conducted as directed by the IC, or as requested by the Incident Safety Officer or Officer.

PAR’s should be conducted in the event of any of the following: • When Firefighters are missing • Change of Tactics • Significant Fire ground event • Change of Command • At a pre-determined interval of time (i.e.; 30 minutes) • Prior to event termination • At the discretion of Incident Command

TERMINATION When the incident is finished and apparatus are being returned to service, or personnel have been released from the scene, apparatus Fire Fighters are required to retrieve their tags from the person responsible for accountyability before proceeding back to the station. All unclaimed tags shall be forwarded to the Incident Commander for follow-up.

MUTUAL AID PERSONNEL All mutual aid personnel responding to assist the department in an incident will report to Incident Command or the Officer as directed. If the mutual aid personnel do not have a tag system established for accountability, the Staging Officer or IC’s designee will handwrite each individual’s name on an Accountability white board and will keep track of the name and associated fire department of the

Page 462 individual. If these members are assigned to tasks, their names will be placed on the Accountability board as well.

SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTABILITY RESPONSIBILITIES Accountability will work only with a strong personal commitment to the safety system. This commitment involves the following responsibilities:

FIREFIGHTER - Responsible for staying with his/her crew at all times, and ensuring that his/her tag is placed onto the board upon entering or boarding the apparatus. Responsible for placing second tag on accountability board when entering the hot zone and removing the second tag from the board when leaving the hot zone.

OFFICER – • Responsible for ensuring accountability tags are placed onto the board prior to the vehicle leaving the station. • Responsible for keeping his/her crew intact at all times. • Also is responsible for returning crew back to staging upon completion of assigned tasks; and crews put tags on the board when entering and remove tags from the board when leaving the hot zone. • Responsible for accounting for all crews, maintaining an awareness of their exact location. • Responsible for managing all available manpower. • Responsible for all personnel and must advise responding equipment of location of Command Post; and apparatus placement and initial assignments. • Must account for safe return of all members and mutual aid firefighters on the scene. • Responsible for monitoring usage of, and compliance with, The Foothills Fire Department Personal Accountability System. Report abuses and non-compliance to department leadership. Implement annual and continuous training on fire ground safety and accountability.

Fire Chief ______

Page 463 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0059 Operation of Motor Vehicles Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose

This procedure is intended to provide a guideline for department members concerning the operation of department motor vehicles.

Traffic Safety Act (TSA)

Sec 62. A siren on an emergency vehicle shall be operated only when the vehicle is being used in response to an emergency, an emergency call or alarm.

Sec. 63 (1) Where, considering the circumstances, it is reasonable and safe to do so, a person driving an emergency vehicle may while the vehicle siren is operating do one or more of the following: (a) drive the vehicle in excess of the speed limit; (b) proceed past a traffic control signal indicating stop or a stop sign without stopping; (c) contravene any provision that is prescribed by the Act, this or other regulations or a Municipal bylaw governing the use of the highways.

(2) An emergency vehicle, while its siren is operating, has the right of way over all other vehicles.

General Emergency Driving

Department vehicles when on an emergency response shall precede with both visual (warning lights) and audible (siren) warning devices operating. Any member shall not turn on or use the red flashing

Page 464 lamps on an emergency vehicle unless the vehicle is being used in response to a fire or other emergency.

NOTE: A vehicle is an “Emergency Vehicle” only when BOTH visual and audible warning devices are in operation. “Emergency Vehicle” means: a fire-fighting or other type of vehicle operated by the fire protection services of the municipality.

Drivers must always maintain control of the vehicle . The operator of an authorized emergency vehicle, when responding to an emergency call or when responding to but not upon returning from an emergency call, may exercise the privileges set forth.

• Stop, stand or park, irrespective of the provisions of this chapter; • Proceed past a red or stop signal or stop sign, • Exceed the speed limit; • Disregard regulations governing direction of movement or turning in specified directions.

Although members operating department vehicles during emergency responses shall be allowed to exceed posted speed limit with due regard to public safety so long as emergency lights AND siren are operating. This does not relieve the members’ responsibility to operate department vehicles at a prudent speed based on current road and weather conditions.

No vehicle will be placed into motion until all passengers are seated and belted. The driver and/or officer are responsible to ensure that seat belts are used by all personnel. Failure to use seat belts may result in disciplinary action being taken against the offending member, the driver, and the officer on the vehicle.

All Department apparatus, with the exception of command vehicles without trailers shall have a spotter when backing up. The spotter will be positioned on the driver’s side and to the rear of the vehicle. In congested areas two spotters should be used when possible. One spotter shall be located at the left rear of the apparatus, and one at the right front of the apparatus. The driver shall remain in visual and voice contact with the spotter(s) at all times. If visual contact is lost, the driver shall stop the apparatus immediately and remain stopped until visual contact is re-established.

If no assistance is available and the vehicle MUST be backed up, the driver shall dismount the vehicle and check around and above the vehicle to ensure that the apparatus can be backed up safely. Upon re-entry to the vehicle the operator will sound the vehicle horn prior to backing.

Page 465 Keeping Safe Distances

Operators while responding in emergency vehicles will keep a safe distance between themselves and any other responding emergency vehicle(s). The safe distance between vehicles will remain at no less than 250m.

Non-Emergency Driving

When driving department vehicles for purposes other than for response to an emergency, strict driving conduct and courtesy shall be observed. Members are aware that a department vehicle is a “moving billboard” advertising the department and how that vehicle is used and operated reflects upon the entire department.

The Response Guidelines for Volunteer stations or Full time stations for back filling shall be as follows:

All personnel while responding to their fire station due to an emergency call will follow the Traffic Safety Act.

Fire Chief ______

Page 466 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0060 Emergency Incident Rehabilitation Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose: To ensure that the physical and mental conditions of members operating at the scene of an emergency incident or training exercise do not deteriorate to a point that they affect the safety of each member, or jeopardize the safety and integrity of the operation. It will ensure that personnel who might be suffering the effects of metabolic heat build-up, dehydration, physical exertion, and/or extreme weather conditions receive evaluation and rehabilitation during emergency incidents and training exercise.

Level of Performance: All firefighters participating in training evolutions or operating at an incident scene within the jurisdiction of the Foothills Fire Department, will actively participate in, and comply with the requirements The Foothills Fire Department Emergency Incident Rehabilitation Standard Operating Guideline.

SUMMARY OF RAHABILITATION RESPONSIBILITIES: INCIDENT COMMANDER The Incident commander shall consider the circumstances of each incident and make adequate provisions early in the incident for rest and rehabilitation of all members operating at the scene. These provisions shall include medical evaluation, treatment and monitoring, food and fluid replenishment, mental rest, and relief from extreme climatic conditions. The Incident Commander could also be responsible for: • Establishment of a Rehab Group • Designate and assign a Rehab Supervisor • Ensure sufficient resources are assigned to the Rehab Group • Ensure that emergency medical care is available for personnel as required

REHAB GROUP SUPERVISOR The Incident Commander will establish a rehabilitation sector when the conditions indicate that rest and rehabilitation is needed for personnel operating at an emergency incident or training exercise. The Rehab Supervisor will be appointed by the Incident Commander the Rehab Supervisor responsibilities can include:

Page 467 • Select a location for rehab if not done so already. (Criteria noted in the Rehab location section of this guideline.) • Accountability and documentation of personnel entering and leaving Rehab following the criteria established in this guideline. • Provide the necessary resources in rehab including: a) Potable drinking water for hydration b) Sport drinks for long duration incidents lasting over a long period of time c) Medical equipment for medical monitoring provided by EMS d) Food for incidents lasting more than three (3) hours e) Time personnel to ensure a minimum 10-minute rest, proper hydration, and personnel’s vital signs return to an acceptable range. f) Ensure personnel needing medical attention are transferred to a medical facility for further evaluation. Every attempt must be made to contact the agency of the affected agency when their personnel cannot be released back to the incident or reassignments. The Incident Commander must be made aware of any personnel being transferred to a medical facility. g) Washroom facilities h) Shelter

OFFICER / CREW LEADER The Company Officer shall be responsible for the following: • Maintain awareness of each member operating within their span of control • Monitor yourself and crew for signs and symptoms of heat and cold stress • Provide for access to rehab area for company members as needed • Ensure their company is properly checked into rehab and remain intact as a company • Ensure that adequate steps are taken to provide for each member’s health and safety

FIREFIGHTERS The firefighters shall be responsible for the following: • Ensure that all PPE is in good working order • Ensure proper hydration • Know personal limits • Advise the Company Officer or Crew Leader when exposure to heat/cold us approaching a level that could affect themselves or crew members • Inform Company Officer or Crew Leader when rehab is needed • Aware of the health and safety of all members of their working crew

REHAB LOCATION The Incident Commander will designate the location of the rehab area. If a specific location has not been identified, the Rehab Supervisor shall select. The rehab location shall be:

Page 468 • Uphill and upwind of the operational area • Easily accessible for ongoing emergency operations • Shall provide protection from environmental extremes • Large enough area to accommodate personnel at the incident • Provide an area of rest, medical evaluation, and rehabilitation of personnel

REHABILITATION PROCEDURES LEVEL 1: SELF-REHAB • Self-rehab is initiated by the Officer / crew supervisor in which members shall have a rest and recovery period of at least 10 minutes for the initial self-rehab • Self-rehab shall be for training exercises and/or incidents in duration of 45 minutes or less • The officer shall ensure that the members remain hydrated and that potable fluids are available • Carbonated beverages and beverages with caffeine shall be avoided • The firefighter shall not return to operations if they do not feel adequately rested.

LEVEL 2: REHABILITATION SECTOR • Shall be established for incidents based on curcumstances of weather, incident and or location. • Personnel entering Rehab shall remove turnout gear for passive cooling. • Personnel shall remain in rehab until released by the Rehab Supervisor. • All personnel shall receive medical monitoring as described in the Medical Monitoring section of this guideline • All members shall rehydrate using water or sport drinks • All members shall rest for a minimum of 10 minutes • No tobacco use shall be permitted in or near the rehab area • Personnel shall not return to operations if they do not feel adequately rested

ACCOUNTABILITY AND DOCUMENTATION • Personnel shall report to rehab and check in as a crew • The Rehab check in/out log shall be used to record rehab activity • An accountability tag shall be given to the Rehab Supervisor upon entering rehab and will be given back upon returning to service • The rehab evaluation forms shall be used to document firefighter status • Personnel shall not be released back to service until released by the Rehab Supervisor

MEDICAL MONITORING: to be performed by EMS on emergency location • All personnel entering Rehab shall remove turn out gear, hydrate and rest • Vital signs will be check and documented along with any complaints on all personnel

Page 469 RETURNING TO SERVICE • All personnel entering rehab shall stay a minimum of 10 minutes • Any personnel that looks fatigued after minimum rest should be allowed more rest time • After the minimum rest time is met and vital signs have returned to normal, personnel can return back to operations after checking out with the Rehab Supervisor

Fire Chief ______

Page 470 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0061 Riding Assignments Location: Heritage Pointe Station

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose Each firefighter arriving at an incident scene has specific duties which must be accomplished. This policy sets forth standard duties as determined by riding position. Level of Performance: This policy will be followed by all personnel arriving on department apparatus unless modified or reassigned by the Apparatus Officer or Incident Commander. All personnel should ensure they have the appropriate tools in their possession to accomplish the assigned or anticipated tasks. Seating Assignments Tender and Buush truck riders will function as assigned by the Incident Commander. All personnel may be re-assigned to other apparatus or to manpower crews as required by the Incident Commander.

ENGINE 9 TENDER 9

Driver Captain 1 2 Engineer

1 3 4 2

Page 471

ENGINE 9 Tender 9 Seat 1 & 3 Attack line (Nozzle) (Captain with 4 personnel) Seat 1 Driver/Engineer Seat 2 Hydrant Seat 2 (Nozzle) As assigned Seat 4 Engine hook up & back up line (6 personnel)

Every effort will be made to keep apparatus crews together. If a crew is split or re-assigned, new crew accountability will be made up and posted at the command post. An Officer or Senior Firefighter will be assigned to all split crews to act as the supervisor of each team. Members arriving at the scene by other transportation means must report to the Incident Commander for assignment.

Engine 9

Driver/Engineer

Fire Event- Establish water to the pump and charge hand lines if required, make water supply connection to the pump, Put on SCBA without mask, monitor conditions from the exterior, monitor accountability if Captain is in Fast Attack Mode

MVC- Stage Engine, Setup traffic cones, if attack line is needed charge the hose line, Assist with extrication/Stabilization.

Captain

Fire- Establish command, perform 360, determine mode of operation, Take pike pole to create vent exhaust point if required, take fan to vent opening (4 Man Crew)

MVC- Establish Command, Setup scene lighting on truck (4 man Crew), Assist Crew as needed.

Nozzle

Page 472 Fire- Grab TIC, Pull appropriate hose line.

MVC- Inner Circle, assess extrication needs, pull fire extinguisher or hose line (4 man crew), stabilization, pull TIC if required.

Hydrant

Fire- Make connection to hydrant if in area with water supply, grab hand tool to take in. Head to main entry point feed hose, report to Captain when at the main entry point. Backup crew. Pull backup line or exposure protection line.

MVC- Outer circle if one vehicle inner circle on second vehicle if required. Stage tools (4 man crew) Irons.

Fire- Grab hand tools to take in, Take fan to ventilation point, head to main entry point to go on hose line,

Irons (cont.)

MVC- Pull Fire extinguisher or hose line, assist with tool staging or stabilization,

Tender 9

Driver/Engineer

Fire- No Hydrants- Setup water supply either porta-pond or nursing engine. Hydrants- Setup for ventilation, pull ladders if required, RIT, Exposure line.

MVC- Stage truck, Setup traffic control zone with cones, Report to IC for other tasks.

Nozzle

Fire- No Hydrants- Assist with setting up water supply, Hydrants- Assist with ventilation, assist with pulling ladders, RIT, Exposure line.

MVC- Assist with setting up traffic control, if not needed at the scene provide traffic control

Fire Chief ______

Page 473 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0064 Acknowledging 9-1-1 Tones Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Guidelines

Efficient and professional communications is essential, as it can impact the success or failure of any firefighting and/or rescue operation. The difference between life and death could very well depend on the effectiveness of dispatch. The following guidelines will be observed each and every time a call for service is received:

1. Upon receipt of any tone for the Fire Department, acknowledgment of the call must be made. Any Officer or Sr. Fire Fighter responding shall acknowledge dispatch ONLY. Under no circumstances will any other personnel acknowledge receipt of a call. If no Officer is responding, the Senior Firefighter shall acknowledge.

2. The first arriving member to the hall will acknowledge their arrival over the radio; any other incoming members will acknowledge this first at hall radio transmission as “incoming”, followed by an estimated time of thier arrival to the hall. Once the minimum number of members is met for deployement and the first truck signs out of station, any further incoming members do not need to give thier estimated time of arrival to the hall.

3. Acknowledging a tone from out of district is strictly prohibited.

4. After acknowledging the call, each responding unit shall announce receipt of the call and sign out of the station. The Officer or senior personal of the apparatus shall notify dispatch of identifying apparatus number along with number of personnel (i.e. Dispatch from Engine 6, responding with 4 personnel or Dispatch from Tender 9 responding to with 2 personnel). If the apparatus has a CAD system installed this may be used to mark as responding.

5. Do not tie up frequency with unnecessary traffic. When transmitting information over the radio, keep it short and concise, ensuring vital information only is passed.

Page 474

Fire Chief ______

Page 475 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0065 Clandestine Drug Lab Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

SCOPE The number of clandestine drug laboratories has increased dramatically in recent years. Toxic chemicals, explosions, fires, booby traps, and even armed criminals can be encountered when coming across these labs. This document is intended to give members an overview and guide for recognizing and operating at these types of incidents.

Methamphetamine is a powerfully addictive drug that is easily produced using readily available chemicals and over the counter medications. A derivative of amphetamine, it is a powerful stimulant that affects the central nervous system. Labs may be encountered in almost any location, including but not limited to; • Industrial buildings • Motel rooms • Private homes • Motor homes • Motor vehicles

In short, a small lab may be set up anywhere out of sight of the general public, and it does not take a college educated chemist to accomplish the manufacturing of this drug.

HAZARD/IDENTIFICATION There are various general hazards associated with clandestine drug labs; • Hazardous chemical properties of materials used • Lack of safety control systems (labeling, venting, etc.) • Lack of chemistry background on part of people involved

Some common booby traps are: • Trip wires designed to set off alarms, explosions, or toxic chemical devices.

Page 476 • Light switches, refrigerators, VCR’s or other electrical appliances wired to explosive devices. • Buried wooden planks with large nails or spikes protruding upward. • Attack dogs may be present.

In the case of clandestine methamphetamine labs, the process being used determines the chemicals that will be present at the lab; the following are the three most common production methods and specific hazards for methamphetamine.

METHOD #1: P2P Lab (Phenyl-2-Propane) Chemicals encountered • Methylamine • Mercuric Chloride • Alcohol • Phenyl-2-Propanone

Chemical Hazards • Severe eye and skin irritation from methylamine (may cause blindness.) • Use of highly toxic mercuric chloride • Occasional use of methylamine compressed gas cylinders

METHOD # 2: Ammonia Lab Chemicals encountered • Anhydrous ammonia • Lithium • Sodium

Chemical Hazards • Reaction of water with sodium/lithium • Flammability and irritant toxicity hazard from concentrated ammonia vapors. • Electroplating sodium metal from molten sodium hydroxide.

METHOD #3: Red Phosphorous Lab Chemicals Encountered • Red phosphorous • Hydriotic acid

Chemical Hazards

Page 477 • Phosphine gas production • Conversion of red phosphorous to white phosphorous • Use of acid gas generators • Exothermic/incompatible reaction of red phosphorous

NOTE: After completion of the production process there is a large amount of hazardous waste left over. Many labs can produce large quantities of finished product in only twelve hours. There are five to six pounds of waste produced from every pound of finished product, all of it dumped illicitly, probably in the vicinity of the lab.

There are several indicators that firefighters should watch for when responding to a potential drug lab or other unknown condition; • Unusual odors like ether, acetone, solvents, odors of stale urine • Covered or painted over windows • Uncommon security measures • Laboratory glassware • Heating elements, hot plates • Marked and unmarked chemical containers

POLICY Clandestine drug laboratory investigations, seizures, and arrests of suspects are all Police department and law enforcement agency matters. The Foothills Fire Department will provide support for the Police Department, or other law enforcement agencies, at these lab sites. Support may consist of, but is not limited to; • Chemical research • PPE information • Exterior air monitoring • Entry corridor/ Decontamination corridor set up • Back-up/Rescue entry team

IDENTIFICATION OF LAB-NO FIRE Personnel that encounter a suspected laboratory should withdraw to a safe location immediately. The Emergency Response Guidebook recommends an isolation zone for unidentified materials. Once an isolation zone is established, the Incident Commander (IC) shall notify the Dispatch with the conditions found.

The First Engine on scene will then stretch a hose line to the edge of the cold zone as an emergency Decon line. The I.C. will assess the situation, and if necessary, shall call for the balance of the drug lab response; Mutual aid - HazMat

Page 478 First responders exposed to the potential unstable materials shall establish a waiting area at the edge of the isolation/hot zone. Responding Decon personal shall set up an entry corridor/Decon corridor from their location out into the cold zone.

IDENTIFICATION OF LAB-FIRE Once a lab is identified, members shall implement the following procedures to ensure the safety of responders and the public. • No interior firefighting • All personnel evacuate affected area in orderly fashion • Personnel accountability shall be maintained • DO NOT interrupt utilities to the building • DO NOT touch /move anything in or around incident area • DO NOT apply water to lab area (possibility of reactive materials) • DO NOT overhaul

When indicators of a clandestine lab are found, treat the call as a hazardous materials incident. Create an exclusion zone- withdraw immediately to a safe location upwind/uphill: follow response procedures as per a Hazmat call.

The I.C, after conferring with the law enforcement, will call for any additional HazMat response that is necessary to assist the entry team.

DECONTAMINATION The initial entry corridor/exclusion zone line shall be used for setting up the Decon corridor, unless conditions require that a different site be used.

Request may be made from the law enforcement personnel having jurisdiction to set up an evidence corridor in the Decon line, as this event will be considered a crime scene. The law enforcement agency entry team will be following their own team’s procedures and may use a designated corridor to enter/exit the hot zone. Decon will remain in place until completion of HazMat operations.

The Foothills Fire Department will not remove or dispose of any hazardous materials associated with a clandestine drug laboratory. Proper disposal is the responsibility of the law enforcement agency that is making the seizure.

Fire Chief ______

Page 479 MD of Foothills: Foothills Fire Department Commented [A1]: Foothills county.

Topic: SOP# 0066 Incident Critiques Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

To provide a means of objectively analyzing Fire Department operations in a post-emergency environment. And to provide a continuing review and development process through which improved methods and operations may be realized.

POLICY

A formal post-incident critique shall be conducted for every major incident. A major incident is defined as any incident which taxes the fire department's resources to the point where outside assistance must be summoned and extensively utilized, any incident which, by its very nature, presents unusual and/or challenging problems worthy of analysis, or any incident involving the serious injury or death of civilians or Fire Department personnel.

Semi-formal and informal critiques shall be conducted by fire department Officers after each alarm, in an effort to provide training and overall improvement of fire department operations.

RESPONSIBILITY

The Incident Commander is responsible for initiation of the formal critique process following every major incident or whenever directed to do so by the Chief.

Page 480 The Officer in charge or acting Officer in charge is responsible for initiating semi-formal or informal incident critiques following any incident which may prompt numerous questions from subordinates and/or may provide a valuable training opportunity.

Officers are responsible for initiating the informal incident critique process whenever an incident prompts numerous questions by subordinate personnel and/or may provide a valuable training opportunity.

PROCEDURES

A. INFORMAL CRITIQUES

1. The informal critique simply involves an informal discussion of the events, which transpired during an emergency incident. 2. The informal critique can be utilized at the on-shift level after any type of an alarm to which the involved fire personnel may have responded. 3. Members of the involved shift may simply meet in quarters and informally discuss the various aspects of the incident. 4. Officers should serve as the chairperson of the informal critique. 5. Training tips relating to the incident should be brought up during the discussion. 6. The critique emphasis must be on overall operational improvement and should not be designed to embarrass anyone. B. SEMI-FORMAL CRITIQUE

1. The semi-formal critique is primarily designed for fire department level discussion of emergency incidents. 2. As soon as possible, following an emergency incident, the Officer in charge or acting Officer in charge of the involved fire department may initiate (at his discretion) a semi-formal critique. 3. The Officer in charge or Duty Officer in charge shall decide upon the time and place for the critique and shall notify the involved Station Officer and the Chief in writing. The O.I.C. or Acting O.I.C. may also invite any other fire departments, which may have been involved in the incident. 4. The O.I.C. or Acting O.I.C. shall serve as chairperson of the semi-formal critique.

Page 481 5. A plot plan of the incident, which can easily be seen by the group, should be provided at the location of the critique. 6. Discussion should begin with the involved facts of the incident include: • Date of the incident. • Time. • Location. • Weather conditions. • Building construction (if applicable). • Occupancy (if applicable). • Topography (if applicable). • Water supply. 7. Discussion of fire department operations should begin with the first Officer or member on the scene, describing conditions upon arrival and initial actions and continue by allowing each involved officer (in order of arrival at scene) to describe the observations and actions of their particular department. 8. Discussion should continue with any outside agencies or departments being allowed to describe their respective involvement in the incident. 9. After a description of the facts and the operations has been completed, the discussion should be opened for questions and answers and expression of opinions by all those present at the critique. 10. The emphasis must be on overall operational improvements and should not focus on embarrassing any individual or group.

C. FORMAL CRITIQUE

1. The formal critique is designed to involve all levels of the fire department. It is intended to be utilized as a method of detailed analysis of major emergency operations. 2. Based on the nature of the emergency, the O.I.C. or Acting O.I.C. may initiate a formal critique. 3. The Chief Officer may instruct the O.I.C. or Acting O.I.C. to initiate a formal critique.

Page 482 4. The O.I.C. or Acting O.I.C. shall make arrangements for the time and place at which the critique shall be conducted. 5. The Station Officer shall notify the Chief Officer and all levels of the Fire Department of the scheduled critique. The Station Officer shall also notify all outside agencies and departments, which may have participated in the incident. 6. A plot plan and all other applicable visual aids shall be coordinated by the Station Officer and provided for the incident critique. 7. The Station Officer shall serve as chairman of the critique and shall appoint a scribe to take notes during the critique. The scribe should not be chosen from among the Officers involved in the incident. 8. The critique shall begin with a description of the involved facts, including: • Date. • Time. • Location. • Weather conditions. • Topography. • Water supply. • Occupancy (if applicable). • Building construction (if applicable). • Special conditions (such as traffic, crowds, etc.). 9. Fire Department operations should be discussed in chronological order by allowing the involved officers to recount and discuss their observations and actions in order of their arrival at the scene. 10. Involved non-fire department agencies should be allowed to describe their respective involvement of the incident. 11. Once the facts and a description of the operations involved have been presented, the discussion should be opened for questions and answers and expression of opinions from all those present at the critique. 12. The emphasis must be on overall operational improvement and should not focus on embarrassing any individual or group.

Page 483 13. The Incident Commander should conclude the critique by summarizing the key points involved and providing additional comments as may be necessary. 14. The Incident Commander shall prepare a summary of the incident critique and retain one copy on file and provide copies to the Assit. Chief and all involved officers. Commented [A2]: Position no longer exists.

Fire Chief ______

Page 484 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0068 2in / 2out Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

To establish standard guidelines and procedures that will serve to provide a safe working environment for all employees and to reduce the risk of injury or death as a result of department operations at emergency incidents.

POLICY

To operate as safely and effectively on emergency scenes as possible, the Fire Department has established the following procedures, which shall be adhered to by all personnel.

DEFINITIONS

A. IDLH Atmosphere: (Immediate Danger to Life and Health) an atmospheric concentration of any toxic, corrosive or asphyxiate substance that poses an immediate threat to life or would cause irreversible or delayed adverse health effects or would interfere with an individual’s ability to escape from a dangerous atmosphere. B. Rapid Intervention Team (RIT): A specifically designated team (minimum two members) designed to provide personnel for the rescue of emergency service members operating at emergency incidents if the need arises. C. Incipient Fire: A fire in the initial or beginning stage, which can be controlled or extinguished by portable fire extinguishers. However, it is the policy of the Fire Department to deploy a 1 ½” hand line any time there is a fire inside of a structure. Though the incipient fire may be controlled by a smaller line or portable extinguisher, a 1 ½” hand-line shall be used in most cases. D. Qualified Firefighter: Any individual possessing Firefighter 1001 level one certification.

PROCEDURES:

A. The first arriving company shall determine if the incident involves an "IDLH atmosphere". At no time

Page 485 shall individuals enter an IDLH atmosphere independently. Teams of at least two (2) SCBA equipped personnel shall be required for entry into such an atmosphere at all times.

B. In fire situations, it will be necessary for the Incident Commander to determine if the fire is in the incipient stage. A team of two qualified firefighters may act according to standard operating procedures to extinguish an incipient fire without the establishment of an initial Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) or the possibility of a RIT being set up within 3 minutes or so.

C. If the presence of an "IDLH atmosphere" has been determined, and there are less than 4 qualified firefighters on the scene, the companies shall wait until at least 4 qualified firefighters are assembled on the scene before initiating operations within the IDLH atmosphere or confirmed that an engine is in route with personnel. Two qualified firefighters may begin operating within the IDLH atmosphere as long as two additional qualified firefighters (properly equipped) are outside the IDLH atmosphere to serve as the initial rapid intervention team (RIT), and one person maintains the operation of the pump. One of the two initial RIT members must be responsible for establishing the on-scene accountability system. The second RIT member may be assigned other tasks and/or functions so long as these tasks and/or functions can be abandoned, without placing any personnel at additional risk, if rescue or assistance is needed.

D. Members operating in IDLH atmospheres must use SCBA and work in teams of two or more. They must maintain verbal or visual contact with each other at all times. Portable radios and/or safety rope tethering are not acceptable replacements for verbal or visual contact. Radios can (and should) be used for fire ground communications, including communications between interior and exterior teams. They cannot, however, be the sole tool for accounting one’s partner during interior operations. Team members must be in close proximity to each other to provide assistance in case of an emergency.

E. Until four firefighters are assembled, operations outside of the IDLH atmosphere shall commence immediately in accordance with standard operating procedures. Such operations include but are not limited to: establishment of water supply; exterior fire attack; establishment of a hot zone; utility control; ventilation; placement of ladders; forcible entry; exposure protection; and any other exterior operations deemed appropriate by the Incident Commander.

F. As the incident progresses to the point of more than one interior team, an identified and dedicated Rapid Intervention Team shall be established and positioned immediately outside the IDLH atmosphere. This team shall be fully outfitted with protective clothing and SCBA with the air mask in a ready position to don, a portable radio, and other required rescue equipment. Both team members will be dedicated to performing rescue and shall not be assigned other duties (except for incident accountability) unless a replacement team member is assigned. A charged hose line shall be dedicated to this team.

Page 486

G. If the incident is in a high or mid-rise structure, large area facility, or other areas with multiple IDLH atmospheres, the Incident Commander shall establish the necessary number of rapid intervention teams so that rescue can be accomplished without a deployment delay. A team should be considered for each remote access point on any large facility. The Incident Commander will be responsible for determining the number of teams needed based on the specifics of the incident.

H. If a firefighter(s) becomes trapped, disabled, or otherwise in need of assistance by the Rapid Intervention Team, the Incident Commander shall announce this action to Fire Alarm by radio. In turn. The Fire Alarm shall simulcast the emergency message signal and announce that a rescue is in progress. All radio traffic not directly related to the firefighter(s) rescue shall cease immediately to facilitate the rescue. An immediate personnel accountability report (PAR) shall be conducted. The Incident Commander shall then assign personnel to assist in the rescue and to assist the rapid intervention team as deemed appropriate. The RIT shall continue to inform the Incident Commander of their progress and actions taken during the rescue.

I. Should the Incident Commander order a building evacuation, a PAR shall be conducted immediately after the building has been evacuated. The RIT shall remain in place for immediate activation should a team fail to report during the PAR.

EXCEPTIONS

A. If upon arrival at a fire emergency, members find a fire in its incipient stage, extinguishment of such a fire shall be permitted with less than five persons on the scene. Extinguishment of outside fires such as dumpster, brush, or automobiles, shall be permitted with less than five persons, even if SCBA are being worn.

B. If upon arrival at the scene, members find an imminent life-threatening situation or probable life- threatening situation where immediate action may prevent the loss of life or serious injury, such action shall be permitted with less than four persons on the scene when the probability of a rescue is made in accordance with normal size-up indicators and fire ground evaluation factors. (Examples: report of persons inside, signs of persons inside, etc.)

1. The incident commander shall evaluate the situation, considering the occupancy, time of day, day of the week, reports from personnel on the scene, signs that personnel may be inside the structure, etc. Entry

Page 487 may be considered if signs indicate a probable victim rescue. In the absence of clear signs or a report from a responsible person on the scene that people are in the structure, it is to be assumed that no life hazard exists and interior attack shall not be initiated until the minimum four (4) persons arrive on the scene.

A. If members are going to initiate actions that would involve entering an "IDLH atmosphere" because of a probable or imminent life-threatening situation where immediate action may prevent the loss of life or serious injury, and personnel are not on the scene to establish an initial rapid intervention team, the members should carefully evaluate the level of risk that they would be exposed to by taking such actions. In all cases a minimum of two (2) people shall form the entry team.

B. If it is determined that the situation warrants immediate intervention and five people are not on the scene, the Incident Commander shall notify Dispatch of the intent to enter the "IDLH atmosphere" prior to the availability of a rapid intervention team. Fire Alarm shall then notify all responding companies of this action and receive acknowledgment from each company that the transmission was received.

C. Should the Incident Commander on the scene deviate from this guideline, the actions taken shall be documented on the fire incident report and forwarded through the chain of command to the Fire Chief. The narrative of this report shall be by the Incident Commander and outline the reasons, rationale, justification, and end result of the deviation from the standard operating procedure. All information in the report shall be of enough depth so as to provide a comprehensive understanding of the actions taken.

Fire Chief ______

Page 488 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0069 Basement Fires Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose The purpose of this standard operating guideline (SOG) is to establish the basic tactical guidelines for incidents involving working fire situations that are below-grade in residential occupancies.

Scope This guideline shall be followed by all personnel of the Foothills Fire Department. It shall be considered operational guidelines to follow in situations that require the active fighting of fire in structural areas below-grade.

DEFINITIONS Below-grade: any structure or portion of a structure located underground or below the surface grade of the surrounding land, also known as a basement or cellar. GUIDELINES General Size up at a below-grade/basement fire is critical to the success of the operation. A 360-degree survey of the involved structure is an important element of a proper size up and is very important in a below-grade fire situation.

If the fire is known to be in the basement, the officer must quickly determine if an exterior access to the basement is present. Exterior access is rarely on the A side of a structure, but rather, most likely to be found on the C side.

The size up should continue beyond the 360-degree survey and include: • assessment of the structure, • the fire and smoke conditions observed,

Page 489 • the ventilation profile of the structure, • the victim survivability should there be a probability of occupants remaining in the structure • risk analysis made by the officer

Two KEY ISSUES / QUESTIONS guide below-grade strategic decision-making: Is there an EXTRERIOR ENTRANCE TO THE BASEMENT and IS THE BUIDLING SAFE TO ENTER: Exterior Entrance Exists and It is Safe to Enter If there is an exterior access AND the building is safe to enter,

The preferred point of attack is the exterior door that leads directly into the basement. The first attack hose line shall be stretched to the exterior doorway for attack. As soon as practically possible a back-up or second attack hose line shall be positioned behind or in close proximity to the initial attack team to provide protection of the primary means of egress and provide additional fire flow. The back-up or second line shall be equal to or greater flow than the initial attack hose line. Principal exposures to basement fires are the floor(s) above. Other than the fire floor, these are also the most dangerous locations on the fire ground, for occupants or firefighters: smoke is fuel and heated gases rise. Consideration for position of a third attack hose line above the fire should be based upon ability to operate this line from a reasonably protected position. A “protected position”, envisioned under this SOP, is one is which firefighters are protected by elements of construction (ie. closed doors), other barriers to smoke and heat, sound flooring and in a location that is not in the ventilation path for the below grade fire. In some structures or situations, the only “protected position” for a below grade fire is outside near a door or window, front or rear.

As extinguishment is established and proceeds, a calculated check for extension to those areas above the fire should be made as soon as safely possible, with the protection of a hose line. The considerations for safety of such operations are based on a risk analysis that includes victim survivability, the changing ventilation profile of the structure, structural integrity and developing conditions. Areas to be checked first should be those areas with open communication to the below- grade area, most likely a set of unprotected stairs.

NO Exterior Entrance: If the building has no exterior access but is determined to be safe to enter, An attempt to locate fire looking through basement windows shall be completed. If present, strategic removal of basement windows shall be completed. If tactically appropriate, attempt to knock-down the fire with an attack hose line through the windows prior to considering interior entry down a basement stairway. Use a thermal imaging camera to aid in locating the fire.

Page 490 The size up should continue and include: • assessment of the structure, • the fire and smoke conditions observed, • the ventilation profile of the structure, • the victim survivability should there be a probability of occupants remaining in the structure • risk analysis made by the officer of interior operations safety.

Is the Building Safe to Enter?: Should it be determined that the building is safe to enter and the risk is reasonably calculated to produce good results, the Officer should determine whether an approach down stairs into the involved space will be made or whether an opening of the floor above the fire area will be made.

The interior basement stairs are normally located under the stairs to the second floor and face the rear of the structure. The advancement of lines for an interior attack of a basement fire must be coordinated with aggressive ventilation of the basement and floors above. Ventilate the basement or below-grade space opposite the entry point for the attack team. Make it easier for the fire to “breath” from that direction than in the direction of hose entry. A back-up line with equal to or greater LPM flow than the initial attack hose line should be in place as soon as practical upon making entry. Use the thermal imaging camera. Good judgment must be exercised in deciding if it is safe to proceed down the stairs. If the approach for extinguishment is through the floor above the fire, a means to open floor, an applicator suitable for such operation (cellar nozzle) and a means to remove intervening ceiling (in similar fashion to a roof operation) will be needed. Like a roof operation, using a roof ladder on the floor to provide safety for the crew on the weakened floor is advisable.

Not Safe to Enter: No Interior Operations: If it is determined that there is no SAFE exterior access and that it is NOT SAFE to enter the structure from a stair way access or an above-the-fire cut and cellar nozzle operation, there will be no interior operations. Fires in windowless below grade areas present significant hazards such that working fires in these areas or spaces suggest or tend to suggest” no interior operations” as an operating mode. An EXTERIOR attack can be made considering the breach of walls, the removal of basement windows (if this has not already been done for ventilation) and the addition of foam to the water.

Page 491 MISCELLANEOUS • Make certain that radio communication is established prior to any operation; •If heavy fire involvement is suspected in the basement it becomes a defensive operation; and • Secure utilities as soon as possible

Fire Chief______

Page 492 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0071 Returning Trucks & Personnel to Service Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

To ensure that fire units and personnel are returned to service as quickly as is possible after emergency operations have concluded.

POLICY A. After emergency operations are completed, fire trucks and/or personnel shall endeavor to return to service quickly, becoming available as soon as is effectively and safely possible. B. Returning to available status after the conclusion of an emergency shall be considered a priority operation.

RESPONSIBILITY A. Incident Commanders are responsible for releasing fire trucks and/or personnel as soon as is safely possible from the scene of emergencies, which have been brought under control. B. Incident Commanders are responsible for making their units available and/or returning them to service as quickly as possible.

PROCEDURE A. All trucks and/or personnel that have been released from an emergency scene shall insure that they are sufficiently re-equipped and ready for response. B. As soon as trucks and/or personnel become available for response, they shall notify dispatch via radio. C. Upon returning to quarters, fire trucks and/or personnel shall endeavor to quickly and completely refuel, refill, re-equip, and re-supply their apparatus to be fully ready for the next alarm (Note: this shall be a priority operation.)

Page 493 D. Whenever fire trucks and/or personnel are operating at an emergency scene, but are being held in an available status, they shall endeavor to remain in a condition of readiness, sufficiently equipped, and able to respond.

Fire Chief ______

Page 494 County of Foothills: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0072 Personal projects (including washing own Vehicles) Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE:

To ensure that all the Foothills Fire Department bay areas are kept clean and readily available for use when needed for the day to day operations of the Foothills Fire Department.

POLICY: You must have the Station Captain’s permission to work on your personal projects (including vehicle washing).

After using the workbench, tools or bays, the area must be cleaned, and all equipment put away or replaced. Any over spray on any other vehicle or station equipment must be wiped down. If the shop vacuum is used, empty the container and clean the filter before putting it away. All personal property will be removed from the station at the end of the shift on which it was brought into the fire station.

RESPONSIBILITY: The last person to use the area will be held responsible.

Fire Chief ______

Page 495 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0073 O2 Deficient Incidents Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

To establish a procedure for locating and mitigating carbon monoxide hazards.

POLICY

The Foothills Fire Department shall respond to and investigate all reports of possible carbon monoxide incidents occurring in occupied spaces.

GENERAL

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless and tasteless gas that is deadly. It is a by-product of incomplete combustion. Many appliances such as kitchen stoves, hot water heaters, automobiles, small engines, generators, etc., can produce carbon monoxide. When a faulty device or unusual conditions exist, carbon monoxide may be vented into areas where people are present. Carbon Monoxide poisoning may be difficult to diagnose. It’s symptoms are similar to that of the flu, which may include headache, nausea, fatigue and dizzy spells for low levels and convulsions, unconsciousness, and death for high levels.

PROCEDURES

A. Emergency or non-emergency responses to reports of carbon monoxide shall be determined by the following criteria:

1. Emergency Response: Caller indicates or suspects any signs or symptoms or carbon monoxide poisoning. In this event, the dispatcher will advise the caller and all occupants to evacuate the building and await the fire department's arrival.

Page 496

2. Non-Emergency Response: Caller has carbon monoxide detector activation or suspects there may be carbon monoxide present in the building.

3. Any time the dispatcher feels the caller is in jeopardy, he/she can immediately initiate an emergency response, even if the initial dispatch was considered non-emergency.

4. All emergency responses shall require full protective clothing and Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).

a. All non-emergency responses shall require full protective clothing, including SCBA unless the officer directs otherwise. b. Once the fire department arrives on the scene, they should first interview the occupant(s) to determine the following: 1. If any occupants are or have been feeling ill. 2. The number and location of any CO detectors, which have been activated. 3. The location of combustion equipment/appliances.

Note: This interview should take place outside of any suspected contaminated areas.

C. After the interview, zero the CO monitor in fresh air and comply with all start-up procedures as recommended by the manufacturer of the metering equipment.

D. Take the first reading just inside the doorway to determine initial CO level. • If a reading of 35 ppm or greater is detected, the building or effected area shall be evacuated immediately and full turnout gear and SCBA shall be utilized during the investigation.

E. Personnel shall begin monitoring the lower levels of the building then proceed to the higher levels. • Be sure to check all areas especially, areas that include utility spaces, kitchens, and attached garages.

Page 497 Note: Gas companies are an important resource during CO investigations and shall be contacted anytime a gas appliance must be turned off. Advise the occupant to contact an appliance service technician to check the proper operation of their appliances.

Fire Chief ______

Page 498 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0074 LPG Emergencies Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

To establish guidelines for the response, operations, and safety of personnel in the handling of L.P.G. (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) emergencies.

POLICY

A. It shall be the policy of the Foothills Fire Department to follow these guidelines in the response and operations in the handling of liquefied petroleum gas incidents.

B. It shall be the policy of the Foothills Fire Department to follow these guidelines to ensure the safety of fire personnel and citizens.

RESPONSE

All personnel shall respond on all L.P.G. leaks. Two personnel may enter the area of the reported leak; all other personnel will stand at a safe distance.

UPON ARRIVAL

A. Attempt to determine the hazardous area (flammable vapor area). B. Remember that L.P.G. is heavier than air, so avoid low lying areas and do not approach from a downhill direction.

Page 499 C. Give a report on conditions and request additional equipment or special equipment if needed. D. Determine if a rescue or evacuation problems exist. E. Formulate plan of action based on initial size-up. The plan of action must provide for: 1. Safety of citizens and firefighters. 2. Evacuation of endangered area if necessary. 3. Control of situation. 4. Stabilization of the spilled or leaking material. 5. Disposal or removal of the spilled or leaking container. 6. Coordinate with law enforcement personnel for evacuation and traffic control.

SAFETY

A. Avoid commitment of personnel and apparatus until a complete size-up has been made. B. All personnel should be in full protective clothing and SCBA's. C. Keep all bystanders a safe distance away from the hazardous area. D. Remove all ignition sources in the hazardous area. E. Keep clear of tank ends if fire is impinging on the tank. F. During L.P.G. tank fires, if whistling from pressure relief valve becomes progressively louder, evacuate the area, an explosion is imminent. G. If tank is burning, fire streams must be used to cool the vapor area of the tank (area above liquid level). H. Do not extinguish tank or cylinder fires unless shut-off can be affected. I. Use another attack line with fog streams to cover the men attempting to close the valves or effecting the shut-off. J. L.P.G. tank that has rolled over (such as vehicle accident) may have rendered the relief valve inoperable. K. If personnel must operate in a precarious position, they must be protected with another fire stream. L. Do not park apparatus in low area - flammable vapors may have accumulated there.

Page 500

CONFINEMENT

A. If vapor is leaking use fog streams to protect exposures and direct vapor cloud. B. If ignition has occurred, use streams to protect the container from overheating and protect exposures from radiant and convection heat.

CONTROL

A. Approach the fire or leak from upwind. B. Use an attack line with fog stream nozzle a heavy fog streams to dissipate the vapors if possible, without disturbing the liquid. Disperse vapor to safe location. C. Attempt to shut off leak by shutting off valves, plugging hole in container or crimping lines. Consult driver of vehicle, building/business manager or plant personnel as to possibility of shutting off fuel supply. D. Heavy streams should be used to divert flames from exposures. E. Apply heavy streams to all areas of the tank exposed to heat. F. The controlled burning of escaping LP Gas (which cannot be shut off by closing a valve) is a commonly accepted firefighting practice. G. Dry chemical and CO2 extinguishers are effective for extinguishing small L.P.G. fires.

Fire Chief ______

Page 501 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0076 Public Assistance Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

A. To keep property damage at a minimum. B. To maintain a safe environment for the public. C. To promote public relations.

POLICY

A. To respond to and assist the public, when possible, on non-emergency related incidents. B. To assess the type of service required. C. If service cannot be provided by the Fire Department, then refer the party involved to the proper agency, which can render assistance. D. Provide service as quickly as possible while not interfering with emergency requests.

OBJECTIVE

To provide policy and guidelines for non-emergency related incidents.

PROCEDURES

A. FLOODING 1. To respond and ensure that there are no hazards resulting from the flooding. This would include electrical equipment, gas and/or oil-fired equipment, etc. 2. Ensure the safety of the occupants.

Page 502

B. ANIMAL CONTROL a. Domestic animal (pet) call:

(1) The owner of the pet must be the person calling and has to vouch that the animal has had up to date vaccinations. (2) Call in bylaw & or RCMP if needed (3) The owner of the animal must be on the scene for the animal to be removed or no removal shall be performed. (4) If the animal to be rescued is a cat in a tree, then the cat has to have been in the tree at least twelve (12) hours. (5) The safety of Fire Department personnel is the foremost concern in attempting to remove animals from dwellings, trees, etc. (6) The Officer in Charge shall determine if a member will retrieve a pet in heights. If it is permitted by the Officer in Charge members shall abide by the following; (a) No animals shall be removed from trees, dwelling roofs at night. (b) Fire Department personnel shall wear full protective clothing to guard against animal bites and scratches.

C. PERSONS LOCKED IN OR OUT 1. Vehicles 1. Vehicle lockouts where the motor is running and/or there is a child in the vehicle the Fire Department shall respond and provide assistance. 2. The Fire Department will not try to gain entry unless the child locked in the vehicle is in distressed or may go into distress. 3. Vehicle lockouts where the motor is not running and there is no child in the vehicle then the caller shall be instructed to call appropriate agency. 4. Determination of the person calling for assistance as being the owner or occupant should be made by the officer on the scene. 5. An infant, ill, or unconscious person is locked inside and unable to exit by their own means. 6. A distressed pet is locked inside during extreme heat/cold. 7. The rightful owner has left the engine running and could create a fire or health hazard such as being parked inside a garage or, basement, etc.

Page 503 8. Prescription medication(s) are locked inside vehicle. 9. Call RCMP as needed

Refer to Policy # 0106 Vehicle Lock-in Lock-out

2. Dwellings 1. Anytime a citizen calls requesting assistance in gaining entry to their dwelling or assistance in getting out of their dwelling the Fire Department shall respond and provide assistance. 2. The Officer in Charge shall verify that the caller is the owner or occupant of the dwelling. 3. The caller shall be advised by the officer on the scene of the chance that if entry must be made by other means than a window that damage could be incurred. 4. If the caller does not wish to have damage done to their dwelling, then they shall be advised to call a locksmith. 5. The safety of Fire Department personnel shall always be of the up most concern.

D. BROKEN WATER MAIN 1. Respond to location and assess the break. 2. How much water is flowing? 3. Is a traffic hazard involved? 4. If a traffic hazard exists, request the Police Department. 5. Contact dispatch to respond required resources and relay all pertinent information. 6. Notify Public Works

E. SEWAGE SPILLS 1. Contact dispatch and have the required resources to respond. 2. Ensure that there is not a buildup of sewer gas in the dwelling if a building is involved.

F. PUBLIC SERVICE STANDBY 1. Parties requesting public service standby must request through the Chief Officers and specify the date, time and type of standby they are requesting. 2. Parties shall supply an appropriate staging area for fire department personnel and equipment. 3. Fire department members shall conduct activities specific to the type of standby requested. As ok'd by

Page 504 Chief Staff. 4. Members shall remain diligent in their duties as public servants/caregivers and refrain from being distracted. 5. Members shall ensure that all fire safety regulations are complied with and enforced throughout the entire event. 6. In the event of an alarm while on a public standby the unit shall respond to the emergency. Once the emergency is completed and the unit shall return to the standby if their services are still needed.

G. Members shall not accept nor request gifts or gratuity from businesses, companies, organizations or establishments that requested the standby.

Fire Chief ______

Page 505 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0077 Police Liason Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

To establish guidelines for the request of a law enforcement officer at an emergency scene.

POLICY

Foothills Fire department personnel shall follow these guidelines when needing a response of a law enforcement officer at an emergency scene.

PROCEDURE

A. If at any time during Fire Department operations the need for law enforcement assistance presents itself, request such assistance through dispatch.

B. If requested to the scene of a Police Operation, contact the officer in charge (normally there will be a Police Command Post (at larger operations) and coordinate efforts.

TRAFFIC CONTROL

A. When requesting a police response for traffic control, the request shall be made to dispatch specifying the exact location of the need and fact that "traffic control" is the nature of the request.

B. When special traffic control measures are needed, such as with hazardous materials incidents, the basic requirements may be relayed through dispatch with a request for a Police Supervisor at the Command Post.

Page 506

CROWD CONTROL

The Police Department shall enforce a Fire Line as identified by the Fire Department. It is the responsibility of the Police Department to keep unauthorized persons outside the Fire Line. Authorized personnel, inside the Fire Line are the responsibility of the Fire Department, including the news media, utility personnel, etc. Command must identify the area to be controlled to the Police Department, keeping in mind the possible dangers of the situation and the area needed for operations.

EVACUATION

At incidents involving exposure of large numbers of citizens to some danger, such as hazardous materials incidents, it often becomes necessary to use Police Officers to effect and maintain evacuation of an area. In these cases, it is essential that the Incident Commander and a Police Supervisor get together to coordinate manpower needs and assignments, establish perimeters and exchange information. Both departments to minimize risks to personnel and the public must share accurate and timely information.

PERSONS INTERFERING WITH FIRE DEPARTMENT

A. When Fire Department personnel encounter interference from anyone at the scene of an incident, a specific request shall be made to the Police Department identifying the type of problem encountered and the desired action.

B. If the situation reaches a point where Fire Department personnel are physically endangered by an unstable situation, Fire Department unit will withdraw until the Police Department can stabilize the situation.

MEDICAL EXAMINER REQUEST

A. Dead bodies are a responsibility of the Police Department, delegated by the Medical Examiner.

B. Requests for a Medical Examiner’s response must include the response of a Police Officer.

Page 507

POLICE ASSISTANCE

When providing assistance to the Police Department, coordinate with the officer in charge and provide such assistance as may be needed and as may be safe for the Fire Department personnel to provide.

COMMUNICATIONS

Communications with the Police Department will have to be made through Dispatch.

Fire Chief ______

Page 508 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0080 Live Fire Simulation Training in Structures Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose

These procedures deal with the training of structural firefighters under live fire simulated conditions and focuses on training for coordinated interior fire suppression operations with a minimum exposure to risk for the participants. Note: No live fire burn in residential structures, only theatrical/simulated smoke.

Scope

This procedure details steps to affect a safe live fire simulated training evolution in training buildings or within suitable acquired buildings awaiting demolition. While this type of training provides high levels of realism, it obviously carries with it most of the hazards of interior firefighting at an actual emergency. Live fire simulation training must be planned with great care and supervised closely by instructional personnel. The intent of this procedure is to ensure adequate levels of safety while conducting live fire simulation training evolutions.

Structures

Strict safety practices shall be applied to all structures selected for live fire simulation training evolutions.

Preparation of Buildings

Building shall be visually inspected prior to any live fire simulation training. Damage shall be documented. Structural integrity should be evaluated at least annually. Pre-fire inspection should include proper operation of all doors, windows, roof scuttles, ventilators, lighting, standpipe and sprinklers. Debris should be removed at the end of each training evolution.

Approval must be officially done by the Chief.

Page 509 Fire Chief ______

Page 510 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0085 Station Maintenance Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

This guideline is to provide a job description for station maintenance for all Foothills Fire department stations.

Scope – This guideline applies to all persons designated to fire hall maintenance.

1. Station Maintenance (Officer is responsible to):

a) Supervise the maintenance of the fire station. b) Keeping the fire station neat and clean. This includes: • Cleaning the apparatus floor on a regular basis and at least monthly • Washing the apparatus floor when needed • Cleaning the office and training room floor on a regular basis and at least monthly • Cleaning the bathrooms on a regular basis and at least monthly • Cleaning the kitchen on a regular basis and at least monthly • Emptying the trash and removing from the building as needed and at least monthly • Keeping soap, toilet paper and paper towels in bathroom • Keeping soap and paper towels in kitchen • Dusting trim and fixtures as needed • Keeping storage areas and cabinets neatly organized • Defrosting and cleaning refrigerator as needed

2. Station Maintenance (Officer is responsible for): a) Periodically checking the compressor to make certain it is drained, adequately oiled and serviced.

Page 511 b) Cleaning and washing the fire apparatus, plus returning fire apparatus and equipment to service and hosing down after a fire response. c) Periodic inspection of the fire station and reporting to Chief Staff the need for service and preventive maintenance of the station, heating and equipment.

Fire Chief ______

Page 512 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0086 Life Safety Rope and System Components Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

To establish guidelines for the operations, and safety of personnel with all life safety ropes, harnesses, and hardware used by the fire department. Life safety rope after 5 years from in service date will be used as utility rope as per manufacturors recommendations.

POLICY

All life safety ropes, harnesses, and hardware used by fire departments shall meet the applicable requirements of NFPA 1983, Standard on Fire Service Life Safety Rope and System Components. Rope used to support the weight of members or other persons during rescue, firefighting, other emergency operations, or during training evolutions shall be life safety rope and shall meet the requirements of NFPA 1983, Standard on Fire Service Life Safety Rope and System Components.

1. Life safety rope used for any other purpose shall be removed from service and destroyed.

2. Life safety rope used for rescue at fires or other emergency incidents or for training shall be permitted to be reused if inspected before and after each such use in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions and provided that the following criteria are met:

a) The rope has not been visually damaged by exposure to heat, direct flame impingement, chemical exposure, or abrasion. b) The rope has not been subjected to any impact load. c) The rope has not been exposed to chemical liquids, solids, gases, mists, or vapors of any material known to deteriorate rope.

If the rope used for rescue at fires or other emergency incidents or for training does not meet the criteria or fails the visual inspection, it shall be destroyed after such use.

Page 513 If there is any question regarding the serviceability of the rope after consideration of the list in the safe course of action shall be taken and the rope shall be placed out of service for life safety and can be used as utility rope.

Life safety rope used for any other purpose shall be removed from service and destroyed. Rope inspection shall be conducted by qualified inspectors in accordance with rope inspection procedures established and recommended as adequate by the rope manufacturer to assure rope is suitable for reuse.

Records shall be maintained to document the use of each life safety rope used at fires and other emergency incidents or for training.

Fire Chief ______

Page 514 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0090 Obedience to Orders Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Scope The purpose of this guideline is to establish a basic understanding of what is required of all members of the fire service related to the obedience of orders.

General Policies

1. Members shall read and become familiar with the department's rules, regulations, policies, and procedures. No plea of ignorance of the rules and regulations will be accepted as an excuse for any violation.

2. Members shall promptly and willingly respond to the lawful orders of Superior Officers or acting Officers. Refusal to obey a lawful order shall constitute insubordination. Obvious disrespect for or disruption of a supervisor's order likewise shall be deemed insubordination.

3. Members shall abide by federal and provincial law, local ordinances and rules, and the fire department’s general orders and rules of conduct. Members shall not be required to obey orders that are illegal or in conflict with the Fire Departments rules and regulations.

4. Members shall not openly criticize or comment derogatorily to anyone about instructions or orders received from a superior Officer:

5. Supervisors and acting supervisors shall refrain from exceeding their authority in giving orders. The wrongful or injurious exercise of authority is prohibited.

6. Every Officer, on and off duty, shall be held responsible for enforcing the Fire Department's rules. If a violation comes to an Officer's attention, that officer shall immediately notify the member of the

Page 515 violation and take corrective action. Should an officer fail to report a violation of an order or the department's rules, that officer shall be equally responsible for the violation.

7. Should a member receive an order that conflicts with a previous order, the member shall notify the officer who issued the conflicting order and shall be governed by the officer's subsequent instructions.

8. A member may appeal for relief from orders or instructions that the member believes to be illegal, unjust, or improper.

Fire Chief ______

Page 516 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0092 Pre-Incident Planning Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Scope

Pre-incident plans are created to familiarize Fire Department personnel with the building layout, the hazards and sources of potential danger, or other unusual features in a structure or complex. Personnel also gain general knowledge of the life hazard, the contents, the type of construction, and the amount of fire suppression resources required to handle an emergency. The knowledge gained through these plans will enable Fire Operations personnel to take appropriate action on familiar territory.

General Policies Initial pre-incident plans will be conducted by a Department Officer. Subsequent inspections any department personnel are allowed to conduct survey if no significant changes have been made to the facility.

Method A pre-incident plan consists of four steps: information gathering, information analysis, information dissemination, and the formulation of operational plans.

A fire officer will schedule the pre-plan survey.

Fire Department representatives will: A. Arrive on time B. Dress neatly in accordance with Departmental standards C. Bring necessary materials including notebooks; pencils; camera, if appropriate; flashlight, pre-plan forms, etc. D. Take a management representative along on the tour E. Conduct the tour in an orderly fashion

Page 517 2. Personnel shall complete the fact side of a draft copy of the Pre-plan Form and a rough sketch of the facility showing features of tactical interest. The following sketches shall be completed at the site of the facility: • Site Plan: a rough sketch of the exterior of the facility and all tactical information pertinent to the outside of the building.

Examples: 1) Surrounding street names 2) Primary and secondary hydrants • Size of the main • Length of hose lay 3) Gas, water, electric main cutoffs 4) Outside dimensions 5) Exposures 6) Any information that may be deemed vital to the Fire Department's emergency response to this facility.

• Floor Plan: a rough sketch of the exterior of the facility and all tactical information pertaining to the inside of the facility. Photographs. Examples: 7) Any information that may be considered vital to fire ground operations. • When sketching a multi-story building, a single floor plan is sufficient if all of the floors are common. • Multi-building facilities require separate floor plans for each building, along with a site plan for the facility. 8) Contact Information

INFORMATION ANALYSIS Information analysis is the process of examining gathered applicable information which can be used at most working incidents and transferring data that is pertinent and vital to Fire Operations to the Pre-plan Form. The Pre-plan Form shall be completed on-site during the initial tour and later converted to a neater copy once back at the station where personnel will have more time and better working conditions to do so. On the form, illustrative drawings shall be simple, drawn according to scale, and will include tactical symbols.

INFORMATION DISSEMINATION The information dissemination step shall be conducted at the building site. This tour will consist of a brief walk-through by all first-alarm units. All companies shall have a copy of the standard pre-plan. A general idea of the building layout and other applicable firefighting information can be pointed out. 1. Get permission and make an appointment 2. Arrive on time 3. Dress properly

Page 518 4. Take a management representative along 5. Conduct the tour in an orderly manner 6. Thank management for their cooperation

FORMULATION OF PLANS The company officer shall organize a meeting to formulate pre-incident attack plans. All first-alarm units should attend. Using the pre-plan slides, overhead transparencies, chalkboard or other materials, different tactical problems of varying fire situations can be discussed. Points of entry, hazardous areas, water supply, apparatus placement, utility cutoffs, and resources needed are some of the items that should be discussed and pre-planned. A GUIDE FOR CONDUCTING FACILITY PRE-FIRE PLANS

1. Sketch Each Floor 2. Show Roof access of venting devices 3. Show approaches to the facility 4. Indicate the size of the facility (Length and Width) 5. Show location of attic access doors, hatches, or ladders 6. Show roof access ladders 7. Show the location of the master electrical shutoff(s), other electrical shutoffs should be shown. 8. Show the location of the master gas/LPG shutoff. 9. Show the Direction of north by an arrow. 10. Show specific types of doors for other than standard personnel doors. 11. Show Fences and gates. NOTE: Symbols are used to standardize and simplify information on the sketches the symbols that will be used are on included in this packet. 12. Show all major partitions and doors. 13. Show room numbers if they are marked on the facility, otherwise indicate the use of the room. 14. Show the location of stairs and stairwells. 15. Show the locations of elevators. 16. Show locations of firewalls, and fire doors. 17. Show fire or smoke partitions in concealed spaces such as attics. 18. Show locations of fire hydrants and other available water sources. 19. Show the location of fire alarm control panels 20. Show the location of annunciator panels. 21. Show the location of all carbon dioxide, FM200, or clean agent fire extinguishing systems. 22. Show the location of all sprinkler risers, if applicable. 23. If the facility is only partially sprinkled, indicate areas that are protected. 24. If the facility has more than one sprinkler riser, indicate the area protected by each riser.

Page 519 25. If the facility does not have a sprinkler system or if the facility is protected completely by a sprinkler system place the proper symbol at the top of the sketch. 26. Show the location of all Post Indicator Valves and show which risers the valves control. 27. Show the location of all standpipes, hose cabinets and outlets. 28. Show the location of any installed fire pumps. 29. Indicate the location of hazards in the building, such as explosives, radiation, flammable liquids, toxics, ect. That constitute an uncommon hazard to the firefighter. 30. Indicate the location of where Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are stored.

A sample letter to provide to business owners to help with completing your pre-planning program

ACME FIRE DEPARTMENT P.O. Box 111 Anywhere, NM, 88888

Dear Business owner,

Enclosed you will find a graph sheet in which we are requesting you draw the outline of your business. This will help us in case of an emergency should one arise. Please show the location of the following items in your drawing,

1. Doors and windows 2. Power Shutoff 3. Gas/LPG Shutoff 4. Sprinkler Connection 5. Fire Alarm Panel

Page 520 6. Non-Usable Doors or Windows 7. Any Special Hazards (Explosives, Chemicals, Etc.)

At the bottom of this drawing please list the following,

1. Type of Business you conduct 2. Emergency Contact phone numbers 3. Number of employees normally on site. 4. Business Name and Address. 5. Insurance Company

Please return your drawings to the following address or contact us at the following numbers listed below,

(Your FD’s Name and Address) (Name of Fire Chief) Phone Number of FD

Pre-Fire Plan Data Entry Form

Date: ______Fire Department/District: ______

Business Name: ______

Address: ______Bldg/Suite #: ______

City: ______Phone #:______

Type of Business: ______Dept. Map Page #: ______

Owner Name: ______Phone #:______

Manager Name: ______Phone #:______

Other Name: ______Phone #:______

Page 521 FIRE DEPARTMENT PRE-PLAN # Address:

Nearest Cross-Street is: ______

Primary Hydrant Number: ______Located at: ______

Other water source is: ______Square footage: ______Stories in Height: ______

Occupancy Class Code: ______Location of Heating: ______

Construction Class Code: ______Gas Shutoff: ______Type of Heat: Natural Gas LPG

Electrical Shutoff Location: ______Alarm Panel: ______

Basement: YES NO Remarks: ______

Elevator: YES NO Remarks: ______

Lock Box: YES NO Remarks: ______

F.D.C.: YES NO Remarks: ______

Standpipes: YES NO Remarks: ______Sprinkler System: YES NO Remarks: ______# of Sprinkler Risers: ______Remarks: ______

Location of Sprinkler Controls: ______

Location of Water Shutoff Valves: ______

Exposure Information: ______

COMMENTS: ______

Page 522

Business Name: District

Emergency Contacts:

Occupancy and Hazards:

Construction:

Fire Protection Systems:

Water Supplies:

Nearest Large Volume Water Supply: Water Supply-Needed Fire Flow:

INITIAL DISPATCH Involvement GPM ENGINES LADDERS CHIEFS SPECIAL UNITS EMS OTHERS 50 %

100%

SPECIAL RESCOURCES:

EXPOSURES:

STRATEGIES:

FIRE Southwest Fire Department PRE-PLAN # 2011-

Page 523 DEPARTMENT 14 Address: 147 South 7th Street

Business Name: District Frank’s Shooting Sports SWFD

Emergency Contacts: Frank Martinez, Owner (505) 555-1234

Jim Romero, Manager (505) 555-5678 ABC Alarm Co. (505) 555-9112 Occupancy and Hazards: Gun Shop, with Bulk Ammunition storage, and shooting supplies.

Ammunition is stored In Back room in concrete enclosure, solvents in fire proof lockers. Will have to force entry into store and ensure all emergency escape routes are clear before making an interior attack. Construction: Steel Frame Building.

Fire Protection Systems: Full Sprinkler System, with Clean agent extinguishing system in Weapons/Ammo Vault.

Water Supplies: Hydrant located at 7th street and 147th St. Hydrant provides 1,000 GPM @ 75

PSI. Dispatch will send 2 County Fire Districts with tankers for support. If tankers are not needed, personnel sent will be used on fire ground. Nearest Large Volume Water Supply: As Above or Hydrant at 147th and Pine 200 Ft. South of above hydrant Water Supply- INITIAL DISPTACH Needed Fire Flow: Involvement GPM ENGINES LADDERS CHIEFS SPECIAL UNITS EMS OTHERS 50 % 1500 GPM E-1 & E-3 1 R-1 & Police County Dept Tankers, As needed 100% 2800 GMP E-1, E-3 & E- 1 R-1, 7 Police County 7 Dept Tankers, As needed SPECIAL RESCOURCES: Tankers from County Fire Districts can be sent to the City Yards, at 155 7th street if a fill site for drafting is needed.

EXPOSURES:

Page 524 Side-B: Exposure to Sam’s Cabinet Shop, wood frame construction Side-D Exposure to Pete’s Pet Shop metal frame 10’ clearance between buildings.

STRATEGIES: Disconnects for Gas and Electric on Side D of structure. Protect exposure on Sides B & D.

COMMENTS: Police Department must be requested to help in securing the scene as this is a fire arms store, which stores ammunition and weapons. They will be needed to take custody of the scene upon completion of any fire suppression.

PRE-INCIDENT PLAN DIAGRAM

Direction Address: PRE-PLAN # 147 South 7th Street

Name of Occupancy: DISTRICT N 1 2011-14 Frank’s Shooting Sports

Oak Street

B

Main Show Room

Fully Sprinkled

A Displays are 147 combustible St

C

Page 525

Stock Room Weapons &

Heavy Ammo Vault

Combustibles, and 650 sqft

FDC

SPRK Clean Agent

RISER Electrical Hydrant D Disconnect Gas Meter 1,000 GPM th 7 Street

NOT TO SCALE PRE-INCIDENT PLAN DIAGRAM

Direction Address: PRE-PLAN #

Name of Occupancy:

Page 526

NOT TO SCALE

Fire Chief ______

Page 527

Page 528 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0093 Outside Burning Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE To establish guidelines for Outside Burning

POLICY Any person lighting an outdoor fire for any purpose must have a valid burning permit, other than an enclosed Municipality approved recreational fire pit. Refer to Foothills County Burning Permits and Regulations.

Permits may be obtained by filling out the required documentation online.

BURNING PERMITS: Burning permits are required for all open burning on a year-round basis. Exceptions are permitted if burning is to take place in a burning barrel fitted with a screen, or a BBQ in or outside of a pit. Burning permits are valid for 5 days from the date of issue. If conditions warrant, permits may be cancelled at any time. Extensions may be granted under a new permit number, provided the required conditions can be met. As condition of the burning permit you must inform the 911 Dispatch Centre @ 1-888-808-3722 one (1) hour prior to commencing burning.

When disposing of a building or structure by burning, the building or structure must first be demolished. The burning of tires, plastic wastes or other toxic noxious materials or substances is not permitted. The Fire Chief, for the purpose of fire control, may suspend or cancel all permits or prohibit the lighting of fires in any part or all of the County of Foothills. Upon suspension or cancellation of any permit, the person concerned must extinguish immediately any fire set according to his permit.

The general public may be notified of suspension or cancellation of the burning permits through the press, radio or television. Upon such notification all fires ignited under the authority of a permit or any fire under the control or jurisdiction of a permit holder must be extinguished immediately.

Page 529 REGULATIONS FOR BURNING PERMITS

In the County of Foothills burning permits for outside fires are required year-round. To obtain permits fill out the required documentation online. The fire must be set at the time and place indicated on the permit. The number of fires set at one time and minimum equipment needed may be specified on the permit. A burn permit is a legal document which conditionally authorized a person to burn Class A materials (wood/paper) at a time specified on the permit. By obtaining a burn permit you have simply indicated you wish to burn. The responsibility for conducting a safe burn is yours. Anyone who sets a fire under authority of a permit must comply with the following requirements and conditions.

FIRE PERMIT CONDITIONS

Fire must always be supervised ,

1. Be a responsible adult. 2. No burning is permitted when winds exceed 12 km/hr or are gusting. 3. Suitable fire extinguishing equipment to be located at site. 4. The 911 Dispatch Centre @ 1-888-808-3722 must be notified one (1) hour prior to burn taking place. 5. No burning is permitted between the night hours of 10:00 pm and 7:00 am unless a special permit has been issued by the Foothills County. 6. Only Class A combustibles are to be burned (clean wood/paper products). 7. An accurate description of the size and the type of combustibles must be submitted online when applying for a permit. 8. Any breach of the above conditions renders the permit null and void.

CALL BEFORE YOU BURN! 1-888-808-3722 (DISPATCH CENTRE)

Fire Department responses to an uncontrolled fire or a breach in permit conditions will result in an invoice for the costs.

Guidelines for Use of Recreational Fire Pits, Burning Barrels or Incinerators

1. Outdoor Incinerators to be constructed according to NFPA 82. 2. Indoor Incinerators to be constructed according to the Alberta Building Code. 3. Burning barrels or recreational fire pits must be installed on a non-combustible base extending at least 24” from the sides and at least four (4) meters from any other combustible materials or structures. 4. Recreational Fire Pit or Barrel to be fitted with a tight meshed spark arrester screen (suggest 7 mm mesh, 1/4”). 5. Burning is not recommended when winds exceed 12 km/hr or are gusting. 6. A means of extinguishing the fire must be on site during operation.

Page 530 7. The person lighting or allowing any fire is responsible for its safe operation. If in doubt, contact the County of Foothills Fire Chief.

Agricultural Land

Special regulations must be followed by those who have a burning permit to burn brush or debris after land clearing or other agricultural activities.

THESE ARE:

No fire shall be ignited for broadcast burning of grass or stubble without first obtaining a burn permit from the Fire Chief. To prepare for burning of debris or windrows, they must be no more than 60 meters in length. The area being burned must be completely surrounded by a guard cleared of combustible material to a width of not less than 15 meters.

No windrow shall be closer than 25 meters to uncleared land or standing combustible fuels. Parallel windrows must be separated by not less than 15 meters. Every fire must be supervised and controlled by a responsible person or persons.

The minimum amount of equipment required on site: • Cultivation equipment as directed in permit • One barrel of at least 200 liters of water • One water backpack and hand pail or four heavy sacks; and • 2 round mouth shovels and one axe.

Reduce your chances of having a fire get out of control by checking these precautions: • Ensure that your fire guards are wide enough to prevent sparks spreading from your fire. Large fires can carry sparks over a considerable distance. • Have required tools ready at the fire site with enough portable water to control fire. Even for a small pile you should have a shovel and water available. If you have several piles, burn only as much as you can keep under control. • Check to see if any neighbors will be available to assist you if you require emergency assistance. • Do not start a fire under windy or gusty conditions. • Whenever possible, plan your burn for early in the day. You will get good burning time if you start at 7:00 am and burn through until 10:00 pm. • When your burn is completed, wet and stir up any smoldering ash or accumulation of burned debris. Fires can remain dormant in large piles for long periods and usually surface when fire hazard conditions are extreme.

Persistent hot spots must be extinguished. Continue to check completed burning projects to be sure no holdover fires are present. One of the most serious burning problems is caused by hold over fires when it was assumed, they were out.

Page 531

Fire Chief ______

Page 532 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0095 Trench Rescue Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

Ensure the safety of personnel and guide response and operations involving at trench rescues or recoveries. Personnel should comply with all O.H.S. regulations and the following safety procedures during any incident, which may be a rescue or recovery, that requires entry into a trench, excavation or hole, 4 feet or deeper. Adherence to safety procedures protects fire department personnel and represents the best chance of survival for the patient.

PROCEDURE

Personnel should don all appropriate PPE. Generally, that will be Department issued rescue coveralls, helmet, boots, gloves and in some cases, a harness and safety line. Begin gathering information (size up) while establishing a minimum 15-foot perimeter from any excavation, trench, or hole. Approach the trench at the ends.

Gather information such as reason for excavation work, time and date work began, depth of work in area of entrapment, number and type of victims or patients, utilities in or near the excavation, weather conditions (current and predicted), type and location of sources of vibration, last known location of victims, existing soil conditions and concerns, time of day/date/day, etc.

RESPONSE

Page 533 The Incident Commander will need to determine the need for additional resources as soon as possible. These additional resources could include:

1. Additional Fire Departments (mutual aid) - Resources

2. Ambulances, Air Ambulance

3. Specialty Teams – (Okotoks Fire, Calgary Fire)

4. Public works equipment and personnel (Vac Truck and additional shoring)

5. Utility Companies

6. Specialized equipment such as heavy equipment.

Personnel shall not enter a trench until a size-up has been completed and enough resources are available to assure the safety of the rescuers.

HAZARD REMOVAL

General Area

• Create a hot, warm, and cold zone. “Suggested” size and distance:

• Hot zone extends 0-50 feet.

• Warm zone extends from 50-150 feet.

• Cold zone extends from 150-300 feet.

Size and distance may need to be adjusted based on the conditions at the scene.

• Control traffic movement.

• Shut down roadways.

• Re-route all non-essential traffic around the scene.

Page 534 • Control the crowd.

• Remove all non-essential civilian personnel away from the incident. Utilize police if possible.

• All non-essential personnel should stage in the Cold Zone away from the incident.

Shut down all heavy equipment operating near the collapse. Remove drivers and operators of any excavation equipment, dump trucks, etc. in proximity to the incident location and turn off and secure those vehicles (you may remove keys, plug wires, or turn off fuel supplies as necessary). Fire personnel shall maintain control of the equipment for possible moving or utilization.

Rescue Area

• Control all hazards in the area, i.e., utilities, electric, gas, water.

• De-water the trench, if necessary, as needed.

• Monitor the atmosphere in the trench utilizing confined space SOP guidelines.

• Ventilate the trench, if necessary, as needed.

• Identify soil type and condition.

Trench

• Approach the trench from the ends, if possible.

• Look for unidentified hazards (i.e., fissures, unstable spoil pile).

• Assess spoil pile for improper angle of repose. (Angle at which soil naturally settles, preferably 30-37 degrees)

• Remove any tripping hazards (i.e., shovels, shores, tree roots).

• Provide level area for ground pads.

• Place ground pads around lip of trench.

Page 535 ENTRY AND RESCUE - Patient Removal

• Place ingress and egress ladders in trench. There should be at least two (2) ladders if possible, secured in placed in the trench.

• Decide on shoring system to be used (i.e., hydraulic shore, pneumatic shore, timber shore).

• Create a safe zone in the un-collapsed portion of the trench (possibly from both ends). This can be accomplished using an approved shoring system, i.e., pneumatic, hydraulic, timber.

• Secure all unsecured utilities, pipe, or any other obstruction in the trench.

• Begin dirt removal, operating from a safe zone (buckets, small shovels, by hand). Continue extending the safe zone into collapse zone. Rescuers shall remain in the safe zone while removing the dirt from the collapsed zone.

• Uncover victim to below the diaphragm.

• Begin patient assessment, if possible (ABCs). Begin ventilation, if possible. Initiate C-Spine precautions. Consider removing the victim from danger prior to providing definitive care.

• When the soil around the patient is completely removed, the patient should be packaged into the appropriate medical device for the situation, such as a KED, backboard, C-collar, stokes basket, splints, etc and removed to awaiting EMS personnel.

• Remove the victim from the trench (vertical haul, horizontal haul).

TERMINATION

• Remove tools and equipment from trench. If there has been a fatality, you may consider leaving tools and equipment in place for investigative purposes.

• Remove trench shoring system (last-in/first-out).

Note: Under no circumstances shall any aspect of safety be compromised to increase the speed of the operation!!!

Page 536 Fire Chief ______

Page 537 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0096 Public Assistance Call Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

Standardizing responses for public assistance requests of the Foothills Fire Department.

PROCEDURE

On the receipt of a request for public assistance, the ranking Officer shall determine the level of response. Under no condition shall a non-emergency public assistance call supersede the need for an emergency response request. The response may include one of the following:

1. No response, the requesting party shall be contacted with an explanation of the Fire Department‘s denial of the request

2. Response of the engine and an appropriate number of personnel for the request

3. Officers shall track times and calls.

The following conditions shall be considered when deciding on a response and during the performance of duties to provide the service requested:

1. Fire department apparatus or equipment will not be put at risk of damage

2. Fire department personnel will not be put at risk of injury

Page 538 3. Residence of the area will not be put at risk of injury

4. The environment will not be knowingly damaged

5. The actions would in no way be looked upon negatively by the public for which the Foothills Fire Department serves

6. Any actions will not violate local ordinances or local, provincial or federal laws

Fire Chief ______

Page 539 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0097 Confined Space Rescue Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

Foothills Fire Department personnel shall comply with all O.H.S. regulations and the following safety procedures during any incident, which is usually a rescue that requires entry into a confined space. Strict adherence to safety procedures protects Fire Department personnel and represents the best chance of survival for the victim. All personel must be trained and certified in confined space rescue before entering a confined space area.

PROCEDURE

Fire Department personnel shall perform the following procedures before entering any Confined Space for any reason.

Confined Space is an area which has many of the following characteristics:

1. Limited openings for entry and exit

2. Unfavorable, natural ventilation

3. Potentially hazardous atmosphere

4. Not designed for continuous worker occupancy

Examples of Confined Space for the purpose of this procedure shall consist of, but are not limited to:

1. Sanitary and storm sewers

2. Utility manholes and vaults

Page 540 3. Below-grade wet and dry wells

4. Sanitary and storm sewer lift stations

5. Waste-water treatment plant pits

6. Storage tanks

7. Meter pits and vaults

8. Silos

9. Boilers, furnaces, or similar closed equipment

10. Enclosed bins

11. Utility tunnels

12. Wells and cisterns

13. Pits and excavations

RESPONSE

The response to a known Confined Space Rescue situation shall be dispatched as a Confined Space Rescue

Response equipment and personnel vehicles should park downwind from the entrance to the Confined Space and the engines shut down to eliminate ignition sources and exhaust fumes from complicating the rescue. Engines for pumping needed hose lines are to be at least 100 to 150 feet from the entrance.

The incident commander will need to determine the need for additional resources as soon as possible. These additional resources could include:

1. Additional Fire Departments (Mutual Aid)

2. Ambulances

3. Hazardous Material Team (Mutual Aid)

4. Public works equipment and personnel

5. Specialized equipment

Page 541 6. Heavy equipment

SIZE-UP

Personnel shall not enter a Confined Space until a size-up has been completed and sufficient resources are available to assure the safety of the rescuers. The following information should be obtained as part of the size- up process:

1. Is there an entry permit system in place?

2. Was the entry system being used?

3. Number and location of victims

4. Type of injury (traumatic, electrocution, asphyxiation, poisoning)

5. The time the victim(s) entered the space

6. What type of Confined Space is involved?

7. What type of product has been in the space?

8. Has the space been ventilated?

9. Has all electrical or mechanical equipment been locked out

10. Have all liquid or gas valves been blocked out

AIR MONITORING

The atmosphere of all Confined Spaces shall be considered explosive, toxic, and oxygen deficient until proven safe by air monitoring. All Confined Spaces shall be monitored for oxygen, flammable vapors, and toxic vapors.

Fire Department personnel shall not enter a Confined Space without the atmosphere inside the space being tested and determined safe by the Safety Officer or Incident Commander.

The air monitoring shall be done in the following sequence:

Page 542 The first test is for the percent of oxygen in the Confined Space

1. Any confined space with less than 19.5% oxygen is considered deficient and should not be entered without SCBA

2. Any confined space with greater the 23.5% is considered oxygen enriched and should not be entered because of the explosion hazard

3. Any confined space that is not within the 19.5% to 23.5% must be ventilated and retested before entry

The second test to be conducted is for the lower explosive limit (LEL) of flammable vapor

1. This test must be done after the oxygen test because the LEL test requires at least 5% to 10% oxygen for the meter to work

2. The test meter should either use an extension hose or be lowered into the space to test at various levels

3. Any confined space with more than 10% of the LEL is considered flammable and must be ventilated and retested before entry

The third test is for toxic vapors, which usually are carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S). These tests use the Threshold Limit Valve Time Weighed Average (TLV-TWA) or the Short-Term Exposure Limit (STEL) as the test values

1. Any confined space with more than 35 parts per million (ppm) of carbon monoxide is considered toxic and should be ventilated, but can be entered with SCBA if the atmosphere is not flammable

2. Any confined space with more than 10 parts per million (ppm) of hydrogen sulfide is considered toxic and should be ventilated, but can be entered with SCBA if the atmosphere is not flammable

3. Response personnel should also monitor for any other known or suspected chemicals that could be in the confined space.

HAZARD REMOVAL

• Response personnel shall determine that the confined space is isolated from additional hazards

Page 543 • All electrical supplies that are on or could be switched on shall be shut off and locked off

• All valves that are on or that could be turned on shall be shut off or blocked out and then locked out or off

• Any mechanical shaft or agitator shall be disengaged or disconnected and locked in a safe position

• Do no enter any space that contains dust particles where the visibility is less than five feet. Ventilate the space with a fan until visibility is improved

ENTRY

• All Fire Department rescue personnel involved in a confined space rescue shall a be certified in confined space rescue before entering a confined space. If so, work in a buddy system when it is physically possible for two rescuers to enter the confined space

• The Safety Officer or Incident Commander is responsible to have the rescuers time on air and the time in the space recorded

• All rescue personnel involved in a confined space rescue shall wear full protective clothing and SCBA as needed

• If the space is chemically contaminated, chemical protective clothing shall be worn

• Fire Department personnel shall not breathe the atmosphere in the confined space until it has been tested

• A back-up team of the same number as the entry team shall be standing by, prepared to come to the aid of the entry team. These personnel shall not be assigned any additional duties and shall be equipped and wearing the same level of protection as the entry team

• The entry and back-up teams shall have radio communication capability

• The entry team and the entry process shall be controlled by an officer trained in Confined Space Rescue

• If needed, a charged hose line shall be positioned at the entrance to the confined space and shall remain manned and in place throughout the incident

• A hoisting system or ladder shall be used in vertical confined space situations. All rope work shall be

Page 544 performed only by trained vertical rescue personnel

• There shall be a written record, and if possible, a video recording of all outside the confined space activities and personnel involved

PACKAGING AND REMOVING THE VICTIM(S)

• Upon locating the victim(s), the rescuers shall perform medical assessment and relay this information to the EMS personnel outside the confined space

• Depending upon the medical assessment, either an EMS person will be equipped with a SCBA and protective clothing to enter the space and treat the victim, or the Firefighter will stabilize the victim

• The rescuers will package the victim using equipment under the direction of EMS personnel, the patient is placed in a stokes basket, rescue stretcher, or on a backboard and moved or hoisted out of the confined space

• If the victim has been chemically contaminated, his/her clothing should be removed and decontaminated. The rescuers should also be decontaminated

Note: Under no circumstances shall any aspect of safety be sacrificed to increase the speed of the operation!!!

Fire Chief ______

Page 545 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0098 EMS First Response Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

There are several types of medical assist calls:

• EMS co-response.

• EMS 1st response

• EMS that is on the scene requesting manpower.

The main purpose for a 1st response is to provide EMS until the ambulance arrives. These responses shall be made in an emergency fashion.

The main purpose for a co-response is to ensure that the ambulance has sufficient manpower for a life- threatening emergency. These responses shall be handled in an emergency fashion unless specified by the requesting EMS unit.

The main purpose in a request for more manpower response is to provide manpower for the EMS crew.

These responses shall be handled in an emergency fashion unless specified by the requesting EMS unit.

A Patient Care Report (PCR) is to be filled out for all dispatched medical assists when there has been patient contact.

Fire Chief ______

Page 546 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0099 Safe Winter Operations Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

With the potential for severe winter elements, it is necessary to take extra care for the health and safety of personnel and the maintenance of equipment.

PROCEDURES

WINTER CLOTHING

The possibility of working extended periods of time in cold weather, and the hazards of exposure, make it necessary to dress properly and maintain needed attire. Suggested guidelines include:

1. Liners in turnout coats and bunker pants

2. Liner in helmet (with Nomex hood)

3. Extra gloves

Optional Clothing

1. Neck scarf

2. Insulated coveralls (under bunker pants)

3. Spare change of socks

4. Touque

5. Winter Boots

Page 547 6. Mitts

7. Hand towel carried inside of turnout coat (for drying face)

8. Long Johns

FIRE-GROUND PRECAUTIONS

• Beware of walking across lawns or open areas since snow may hide ditches, holes, curbs, etc.

• After removing face piece (SCBA) dry face to prevent freezing

• Tighten leaking couplings to prevent unnecessary formation of ice

• Permit nozzles to run (slightly cracked open) when not in use to prevent freezing

• Beware of slippery areas around apparatus due to ice formation (leaking connections, etc.) Use ice melt when this condition is identified.

• Beware of the potential for unforeseen building collapse due to snow and ice loading on roofs

• It may be necessary to utilize vehicle exhaust to thaw frozen nozzles and couplings

APPARATUS OPERATIONS

Emergency driving and apparatus operations are very hazardous during adverse weather conditions. Special precaution should be taken:

1. Braking distance may increase three to ten times for both emergency vehicles and other vehicles

2. Fire department personnel may have to maneuver around stalled and/or abandoned vehicles along response routes

3. To safely back apparatus, it may become necessary to position an additional spotter beside the driver‘s side of the cab when ice, steam, or frost obscures the mirrors

Page 548 Other Precautions:

• Circulate booster tanks through pump to prevent freezing

• When the temperature drops well below freezing, inspect all intakes for ice and remove all discharge caps to check for ice between discharge valves and discharge caps

• When operating at an incident, you may have to cover the cab to protect against heavy ice buildup on the windshield

APPARATUS MAINTENANCE

• Apparatus air tanks should be bled more frequently with the increased condensation of cold weather

• On return to station, use water sparingly to wash down underside of apparatus during very cold (near zero) weather to avoid frozen steering gears, brakes, etc. Do not wash when temperature is colder than -15 celcius

• Drain all discharge ports after any pumping operation by removing caps and wiping valves dry, spray caps with RV antifreeze or washer fluid. Open main drain on pump. Keep pump dry in winter.

CARE OF HOSE

• Break couplings, drain, and roll hose as soon as possible at the fire scene

• Forcibly bending or dragging can permanently damage frozen hose. Carefully gather frozen hose and place on top of apparatus in hose bed to transport to station

Fire Chief ______

Page 549 County of Foothills: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0100 Gas Odor / Odor Investigation Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

Standardize response for reports of an odor / gas odor inside or outside of a structure.

Procedure

On the receipt of an alarm for an odor / gas odor, the following are the standard assignments:

Arriving firefighters on the scene don personal protective equipment appropriate for the incident found. Be careful to limit ignition sources while approaching the scene.

First arriving Officer shall assume command of the scene and direct activities as per standard operating procedures after completing an appropriate size up. Additional duties may include:

• Deviations from standard operations as necessary.

• Direct incoming apparatus as to position and function on the fire ground.

• Use a gas meter to check for flammable vapors and CO or if not assign duties as required

First in engine position in front of the address before the reported location.

STRATEGIC PROCESS

• Gather information as to wind direction and speed.

• Attempt to locate the source of the odor / gas odor. Use the gas meter to determine if the atmosphere is explosive and take appropriate action.

Page 550 • Eliminate ignition sources including pilot lights, electrical arcs, static charges and heat sources. Disconnect or turn off utilities including; gas, electric and telephone. Limit portable lights and radios.

• If the amount of gas odor is medium or heavy, consider placing suppression line(s) into service.

• Attempt to pinpoint the source of the gas odor and determine the cause.

• Consider and implement evacuation of effected residences and buildings (Consider areas affected by an explosion, including sewers).

• Mitigate the apparent cause if this action is appropriate.

• Confirm no additional unwanted sources for a gas odor.

• Ventilate the structure(s) including void spaces,

• If the source proves to be from Power Company equipment contact the utility service and follow the appropriate standard operating procedure.

• Terminate the incident and turn the property over to the owner/occupant after the building has been safe guarded.

Fire Chief ______

Page 551 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0101 Crime Scene Preservation Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose

Provide direction in protecting crime scenes from unnecessary spoliation of evidence.

Procedure

Every effort should be made to protect and preserve potential evidence at every incident scene. However, normal firefighting operations and emergency medical care should not be compromised. If you believe that you have discovered evidence of any crime, use whatever means are available to protect that area/item from contamination. This might include roping off an area or room, placing a box over an item or otherwise physically protecting an item or area.

Do not touch any item that you believe may be evidence unless it must be moved to complete your emergency function or make the area safe. If any item of evidence is moved from its original location, you must notify command and the crime scene investigator.

The best outcome is to touch as little as you can and leave the area undisturbed for the investigator to photograph and process.

Fire Chief ______

Page 552 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0104 Overhaul Operations Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

To establish a minimum guideline to be utilized in lessening the effects of a fire on the consumer no matter the scale of the incident.

POLICY:

The main objective of overhaul operations is to seek out and extinguish all remaining fire and control loss, stabilize the incident scene by providing for firefighter safety and to secure the structure.

Fire suppression operations often overlook small pockets of fire concealed in construction voids or hidden under debris. Overhaul activities must thoroughly search the fire scene to detect and extinguish these hidden fires or "hot spots" before they rekindle. The Thermal Imaging cameras shall be used in assisting with this operation.

Floor, wall or ceiling areas showing evidence of extensive decomposition due to fire should be thoroughly examined during overhaul.

Additional areas to check include:

• Wooden door jambs,

• Air conditioning vents and registers,

• Baseboards, door and window casings, and around

• Light fixtures and electrical outlets.

Page 553 Axes, pike poles, and halogen tools are most commonly used for this purpose.

Attic fires pose a special hazard for rekindle where insulation has been exposed to fire. Large areas can receive fire damage and can be located in difficult to reach areas. In some cases, all insulation must be removed to extinguish all remnants of fire. Plenum spaces, soffits and pipe chases should receive careful inspection as they provide possible routes for fire to spread throughout a structure.

Evidence Preservation

Personnel performing overhaul should continuously weigh the importance of preserving evidence with the desire to immediately remove debris and completely extinguish all traces of fire. In some cases, it may be necessary to monitor spot fires until investigators arrive on the scene.

When possible, evidence should remain untouched, undisturbed and in its original location. Where circumstances prohibit this, evidence should be removed under the direction of a fire investigator or police officer

Safety

During overhaul or salvage operations, continuous atmospheric monitoring should be utilized to establish that a safe atmosphere exists prior to discontinuing the use of SCBA.

Any of the following conditions in the working area require continued use of self-contained breathing apparatus:

A. CO levels of 35ppm or greater

B. Oxygen (O2) levels of 19.5% or less

C. Continued presence of smoke from combustion

D. At a minimum helmets and gloves shall be worn when operating inside of a structure

Fire Chief ______

Page 554 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0105 Salvage Operations Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE:

To establish a minimum guideline to be utilized in lessening the effects of a fire on the consumer no matter the scale of the incident.

POLICY

Salvage includes activities required to stop direct and indirect fire damage in addition to those required to minimize the effects of firefighting operations. This includes losses from water, smoke and firefighting efforts.

Salvage operations must be aimed at aggressively controlling loss by the most expedient means.

Salvage operations most often involve early smoke removal and covering building contents with salvage covers or plastic. In some cases, the contents of all threatened areas, where appropriate, can be removed to a safe location.

Salvage efforts should begin in areas most severely threatened by damage. In most cases that will be areas directly adjacent to or below the fire area. Additional salvage activities should expand outward until all areas of potential loss are secured.

If possible, remove valuables when requested and give directly to the owner or occupant.

The following items should be considered when addressing salvage:

• Type, value, and location of contents

• The extent and location of the fire

Page 555 • Recognition of existing and potential damage sources

Fire Chief ______

Page 556 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0106 Vehicle Lock-in Lock-out Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE:

To establish a guideline for responding to a Lock-Out or Lock-In Situations.

POLICY:

We will respond to un-lock a vehicle when the following conditions exist.

• An infant, ill, or unconscious person is locked inside and unable to exit by their own means.

• A distressed pet is locked inside during extreme heat/cold.

• The rightful owner has left the engine running and could create a fire or health hazard such as being parked inside a garage or, basement, etc.

• Prescription medication(s) are locked inside vehicle.

Consent form releasing the Foothills Fire Department of any damage or liability occurring during the unlocking procedure should be completed by the lawful owner of the vehicle.

Verification of lawful ownership should be obtained by Foothills Fire Department personnel. This can be obtained from the vehicle’s license plate or VIN number(s), registration and driver’s license.

Any request for lock-out/lock-in assistance not meeting any of those requirements should be denied or referred to the Commanding Officer

As a general rule, the Fire Department will attempt to assist whenever practical.

Page 557

Fire Chief ______

Page 558 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0108 Lock Box Procedures Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE: The purpose of a Lock Box is to provide the Foothills Fire Department with rapid, nondestructive access to certain occupancies. The FFD requires lock boxes on structures that are not staffed 24/7 and have an automatic alarm, sprinkler, or standpipe system and/or multifamily residential occupancies with interior exit access or any other conditions identified by the Authority having Jurisdiction.

POLICY: Alarm Sounding: The Officer in charge will notify dispatch to contact the building owner. The occupant’s key from the lock box shall be used to open the building and complete search of the building shall take place. The alarm system may be silenced at this time. Any cause for the alarm activation shall be noted.

Upon arrival of the building occupant: The officer in charge shall obtain and record the name of the person, the occupant shall then reset the alarm, and the cause for the activation shall be discussed. The building shall then be turned over to the occupant. The occupant’s lock box key shall be placed back into the lock box; the occupant should witness this operation.

NOTE: if the lock box is connected to the alarm system, the key should be returned before resetting the alarm.

Page 559 In the event of a subsequent alarm(s) and after the building has been searched, the occupant or owner may reset the alarm, lock the building, return the occupant’s key to the lock box, and have an FFD member witness the lock box being re-locked.

If there is no emergency and the unit is needed to respond to another incident the Officer in charge will notify dispatch that the building is secure, and the unit is leaving the scene. Ask dispatch to contact the building owner and request that the building owner call the Fire Department for information regarding the alarm activation.

EMS call: The Officer in charge will remove the occupant’s key from the Lock box, make entry to the residence, provide patient care and return occupants keys to Lock box before calling in service.

RESPONSIBILITY: All officers should have a working knowledge of Lock Box installations in their call area through area familiarization, inspections, and pre-planning. The officer in charge of the scene will be personally responsible for insuring that all keys removed from a lock box for an alarm are returned to the box before clearing the scene.

Fire Chief ______

Page 560 County of Foothills: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0109 Business Inspections Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose:

By conducting a yearly Fire Safety Inspection of businesses, the personnel of the Foothills Fire Department are able to note and inform business owners of glaring fire hazards and safety issues. As a bonus, we gain valuable building familiarization knowledge that may help us for future events.

Additionally, The Foothills Fire Department also will conduct pre-event safety inspections for public events; i.e. Carnivals, Fairs, or amphitheater shows to ensure safety for our citizens and visitors.

Policy:

Inspections will continue until the assigned inspections are completed.

The Officer in charge sets his/her own inspection schedule; however, each Captain is required to do a minimum number of inspections per month (set by Chief Staff). You may and are encouraged to complete more.

Each Captain will be assigned his/her own inspection list. He/she does inspections off their own list, except when working overtime.

All completed inspection materials should be uploaded into Fire Pro.

If serious health or life safety issues are noted during the inspection, notify Chief Staff immediately.

Fire Chief ______

Page 561 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0110 Personal Vehicle Parking Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

POLICY:

At no time are personal vehicles to be parked on the front ramps of any of the fire stations. Personal vehicles are not to be parked in the center area between the bays; however, up to a 10 minute period will be allowed in this area for loading and unloading a personal vehicle. Whenever possible, all personal vehicles shall be parked in designated parking areas.

Do not drive vehicles on grass!

Personal vehicles may be parked in the apparatus bays of the fire station during shift in cases of extreme weather conditions or for short durations of time while firefighters are performing maintenance on them (in accordance with Rules and Regulations) only with the permission of the Chief Staff or station Captains. When parked in the bays, the bay doors should remain closed so as not to be readily visible to the general public.

The front bays may only be used if the personal vehicle is blocked from public view by a fire apparatus and the permission of Chief Staff or Station Captain.

Note: Motorcycles or bicycles used as transportation to and from work may be parked in the bay, out of the way, for the duration of the duty shift at the operator’s risk. And permission from the on shift Captain.

Fire Chief ______

Page 562 County of Foothills: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0116 Positive Pressure Attack Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Procedures for Positive Pressure Attack (PPA)

This section describes safe work procedures for Positive Pressure Attack (PPA). Positive Pressure Attack is the tactical application of positive pressure ventilation (PPV) during offensive fire operations. This section applies to all staff.

Policy

FFD personnel will be familiar with and perform the following procedures in order to maximize safe fire ground operations and minimize loss to life and property.

Scope

These Procedures are based on accepted practices for aggressive interior fire attack on incidents where first arriving crews can make a rapid entry into the area involved in fire. Large and complex fires may require a more methodical, less aggressive implementation of Positive Pressure Attack (PPA).

Purposes and Benefits

PPA benefits to fire operations include: • Heat and smoke are rapidly cleared from the structure, thus reducing the fires ability to propagate and advance. Smoke is fuel. • Clean, cool air replaces the toxic, super-heated interior atmosphere so victims have a higher probability of survival. • Improved visibility and conditions aid firefighters in search and rescue.

Page 563 • Improved visibility and conditions allows firefighters to more quickly conduct attack and extinguishment operations. • A reduced interior temperature reduces heat stress on firefighters. • Less exposure to toxic (carcinogenic) products of combustion for both firefighters and victims. • PPA reduces loss caused by smoke and fire damage to the structure. • PPA can reduce the need and risk of roof ventilation operations at many fires. • Ventilation can be controlled by using simple measures such as opening or closing doors or turning off the PPV-Fan.

Positive Pressure Attack (PPA) Tactical Procedures

In general, this section applies to single family dwellings, small commercial buildings and other similarly sized intact structures. Larger more complex structures follow similar methodologies, but may require multiple fan deployments and a more comprehensive ventilation plan.

PPA can be broken down into four steps, with 1 and 2 happening at generally the same time.

Step 1: Identify the ventilation entry point and position the PPV-Fan • Assign – Task a firefighter to take the fan to the structure as he/she leaves the apparatus. • Ventilation Entry Point - The PPV-Fan should be positioned at the proposed fire attack team’s entry point at the “unburned side” of the structure. This will be deemed the ventilation entry point. • Position PPV-Fan - For maximum effectiveness, the PPV-Fan should be positioned approx 4 to 10 feet away from the ventilation entry point and angled back approx 5 degrees. (Ventilation can still be of benefit if fan can only be placed closer or further away). • Standby Ready - PPV-Fan should be started as soon as possible and left to idle pointed away from the structure. The airstream should not be directed into the ventilation entry point until the attack team is ready to enter with a charged hose line and the ventilation exhaust opening has been established (see step 3). Ideally, the ventilation entry point should remain closed to limit introduction of oxygen to the fire (anti-ventilation).

Step 2: Survey the structure exterior and create or improve the exhaust opening • Identify the Vent Outlet Point – During the initial 360 size up, the IC (First Officer) should determine the most appropriate point to vent. This should be as close to the fire area as possible. It is important to know where the fire is. Utilize information from witnesses, occupants and Thermal Imaging Cameras (TICs). • Victims at Windows – PPA is not an option as long as victims are awaiting rescue in windows that have a clear path to the fire.

Page 564 • Make Exhaust Opening – Task personnel to make or improve the vent outlet. This opening should be substantial enough to exhaust the products of combustion. Consideration should be given to having a charged hose line with this team for protection of themselves, exposures and extension. An indirect exterior fire attack may be warranted in the event that the interior attack from the unburned side is delayed or abandoned.

Step 3: Begin pressurization and fire attack • Direct airstream inside – After the structure has been checked, the exhaust opening ensured and the attack team is in position with a charged hose line, the door or other vent entry point can be opened and the airstream from the PPV-Fan can be directed inside. • Enter after pressurization is observed – Personnel must not enter until the PPV Fan has pressurized the structure for a short time, usually about 30 seconds, or until conditions improve and the interior environment starts to clear. It is extremely important that the PPV-Fan is always “at the backs” of the initial attack team. • Ventilation opening as an indicator – The upper area of the ventilation opening can be utilized as an indicator of the effectiveness of pressurization and interior fire activity, this space is referred to as the “diagnostic space”. Heavy smoke or fire exhausting from the diagnostic space, above the pressure cone could be an indication that the exhaust openings are inadequate, or there is an opposing head wind, and dangerous fire behavior may result if allowed to continue. • Remain aware – Command and everyone involved in the fire operation must remain aware of fire behavior and smoke movement. • Overhaul aggressively – Aggressive overhaul must begin as soon as possible. • Open up spaces in walls, ceilings and other void areas that have been impinged on by fire or otherwise suspect. Positive pressure will spread fire and pyro lytic material in these spaces. • Fire above or below – Be alert to the possibility of fire in the ceiling above (suspended tiles) or the floor below (crawl spaces). When advancing into an area that has the possibility of fire above or below, open up frequent inspection holes. • The void spaces will become pressurized and deter fire extension from the area of fire origin.

Step 4: Make sure the fire is out • Continue to overhaul aggressively – Open impinged areas early and often. • Turn off PPV-Fan – Turn off the PPV-Fan for 10-15 minutes then thoroughly reexamine all involved areas for hidden fire. Be sure to use Thermal Imagining Cameras.

These guidelines will not apply to all situations or conditions, and good judgment must always play a part in any decision. Search and rescue and firefighter safety are always top priorities.

Page 565 Exposure Protection - Positive Pressure Pressurization (PPP) as Confinement Tool

• Exposures can be a structure, or separate uninvolved area within a fire involved structure which is deemed to be at risk. • First priority should be for a coordinated Positive Pressure Attack (PPA) on the fire involved building/area, and then move to highest risk exposures. • Set up PPV-Fans in the same manner as any positive pressure operation but do not create exhaust openings in the area being protected. • The objective is to create a “high pressure” zone around the fire and to force any extension back into the fire area and out the controlled vent outlet established during the PPA sequence. • If heavy smoke conditions exist, consider creating a temporary opening (i.e., door) to the fire area to allow the smoke to vent back where it came from.

Ensure there is adequate exhaust at the vent outlet to allow this.

• Once smoke has cleared, the exit should be closed to seal the area requiring protection, so that it will build and maintain “over pressure”. • Avoid making openings to the outside from the area requiring protection. This can draw more smoke and fire from the involved part of the structure. • Remember to lift ceiling tiles and/or make openings to the attic and/or crawlspace to pressurize these areas as well. • Monitor interior and exterior conditions. Open up high risk interior walls or ceilings and have a charged hose lines available for use. Personnel working in the Positive Pressure Pressurized (PPP) protected exposure should be in full PPE with SCBA with consideration given to monitoring Carbon Monoxide (CO) levels if a gas powered PPV- Fan is in use for this function.

Attic Fires • Start PPA in the attack entrance to pressurize the area below the fire. An exhaust opening is not necessary if the space below the attic is clear of smoke. • Use good judgment and building construction size up for light weight truss design and extent of fire involvement before entering. If there is any doubt of safety due to collapse, conduct exterior fire attack (see further below). • Enter structure with charged hose line and thermal imaging cameras (TIC) to locate suspected fire area by sighting the ceiling. • Once “hot spot” is found, punch a small hole and introduce a narrow to wide fog into the attic space (steam kill). A step ladder may be useful to access ceiling. • Consider using a piercing applicator for the attic attack, but also provide a standard hose line for backup in case there is a failure in the ceiling drywall.

Page 566 • For exterior attack, locate “hot spot” on roof with TIC and by working from a roof ladder or aerial device, use the same principle of making small access opening and inserting fog spray or piercing application. • Consider flowing Class “A” foam for attack lines in both fog and piercing applications. • Keeping attic area closed will deprive the fire of oxygen and keep needed heat in the space for steam production. • Once fire has been controlled normal venting and ceiling pulling operations can begin with the continued use of PPV in the living area.

Chimney Fires • Pressurize the interior of the structure and restrict exhaust openings to ensure that the fire and product of combustion will be confined to the fireplace. • Extinguish fire with small amount of Water, Dry Chem or even CO2. • Using a TIC, check interior and exterior for extension. • If no extension is noted, continue to run fan so cool air will continue to pass up the flue and cool the chimney. • Be mindful of Carbon Monoxide if using a gas PPV-Fan and call for air monitoring to ensure interior atmosphere has returned to a safe level before allowing the occupants back in the home.

Vehicle and Trash Fires • Set up PPV-Fan upwind of fire to provide and enhance general area ventilation. • Crews attack fire with PPV at their backs. This will minimize dermal exposures to harmful products of combustion associated with vehicle fires and unknowns in dumpsters. • Large Buildings may require multiple PPV-Fans, perhaps at more than one location both outside and/or inside the structure. • A Ventilation Group should be established within the command structure. • Do not use PPA in large areas where the fire is ventilation controlled. It is unlikely that enough exhaust ventilation can be established to counteract the rapid onset of extreme fire behavior in these situations.

Multi-Storey and High Rise • Are generally more complex and require close coordination with all division and group supervisors. • A Ventilation Group should be established within the command structure. The fire ground ventilation plan must be coordinated with any building ventilation system. Consider shutting down building system if objectives are not being met, so ventilation group can completely control the vent plan. • Begin by pressurizing stairwells at ground level.

Page 567 • Multiple PPV-fans may be required and additional fans may be needed on landings below and at the fire floor. • For vent outlet openings, a window or other opening in the fire area is the best choice. • The roof hatch in the attack stairwell can be “cracked” slightly to allow smoke build up to escape, but still provide sufficient back pressure to maintain pressure in the stairwell. • Consideration may be given to venting through adjacent units (wall breaching) or out an opposing stairwell through a roof top exit. Control of this stairwell is essential to ensure there are no occupants at risk. • Vent opening locations must be chosen carefully, as pathways will become conduits for the energy and products of the fire. • Be cognizant and cautious to the effects of wind on a vent outlet or a window failure. Be prepared to isolate fire compartment by closing doors and withdrawing to a defensive posture. • Personnel working as stairwell support should be in full PPE with SCBA if a gas powered PPV-Fan is in use either at ground level or interior. Consideration should be given to monitoring Carbon Monoxide (CO) levels where members are working without SCBA.

Tactical Considerations The following tactical considerations can significantly affect the operation and outcome of a positive pressure attack. • PPV-Fan Configurations • Where additional PPV-Fans are required, place two or more in “series” for narrow ventilation points and “parallel” for wider ventilation points. • If space allows, using PPV-Fans in a V-pattern and angled at the center of the opening yield best results and increases exhaust volume by as much as 30 percent. • Always try to configure in a V-pattern to optimize PPV performance. • Regardless of size, PPV-Fans should be placed 4’ – 6’ set back from the doorway and angled back at least 5 degrees for optimum performance. Lesser and greater distances will still offer benefit.

Vent Outlet Location • The fire’s approximate position in a structure must first be located. • A vent outlet must be as close to the fire as possible. • Windows are better locations than doors as they tend to keep heat and smoke higher. This provides a more survivable condition for victims that may be on the floor. Venting exhaust through doors will tend to drop heat and smoke to floor level.

Vent Outlet Size • The size of the vent opening is critical to the successful operation of PPA.

Page 568 • The size of the opening should match the energy being created by the fire and increased burn rate of the fire load. • The outlet size should be a minimum 50% size of the inlet and up to 200% the size of the inlet. This is dependent on head wind, PPV-Fan performance, compartment geometry and size. • Overpowering the fire compartment and not allowing enough of the combustion products to leave can result in thermal runaway and flashover. Be prepared to reduce the speed of the fan to match the size of the vent outlet opening.

Controlling Airflow • Too many openings or exit points reduce effectiveness of PPA. • Close unnecessary windows and doors during 360 (anti-ventilation) • Use sequential venting techniques by shutting interior door as you work towards the fire. This will especially improve pressure in large structures by “zoning” off unnecessary compartments. • Firefighters must not block airflows in doorways or hallways.

Ambient Wind • An opposing headwind of as little as 10 km/h can disrupt PPA. • Take wind into consideration and rather choose a vent outlet that is perpendicular to the wind if possible. • If you have to vent into the wind start with the smaller 50% outlet to inlet opening size ratio. You can always make it bigger, but it is difficult to make it smaller. • If PPV-Fans are set too far back from the vent entry point (greater than 6 feet), the airstream and cone can be easily deflected by cross winds.

Burning Rates • The burning rates of compartment fires that are subjected to positive pressure ventilation will be up to 60% higher than those supplied through normal windows and doors. • Ensure adequate fire flow rates on hose lines to deal with the expected increase in BTU production.

PPV-Fan Noise Noise levels can exceed 100 decibels (dB) near a gas powered PPV-Fan. The PPV-Fan will entrain noise into the structure and negatively affect communication for the interior crew. Consideration should be given to using “less” noisy electric PPV-Fans when possible.

Precautions • No PPA where conditions present warning signs of backdraft. • No PPA where there is presence of combustible dust or flammable vapors.

Page 569 • No use of PPA in large areas where the fire is ventilation controlled. • No use of PPA as long as victims are awaiting rescue in windows that have a clear path to the fire. • Always use PPA from the unburned to the burned side. • Always ensure an adequate vent outlet before directing the airstream into the structure. • Always initiated PPA before the attack team has enter the structure and wait approximately 30 seconds or notice improvement in conditions before making the entry. • Never enter the structure if heavy smoke or fire is exiting above the PPV-Fan. • Always monitor fire conditions and if smoke conditions deteriorate and start banking down, immediately recall the attack team. • Always be aware of the “blow torch” effect at the vent outlet and be prepared to protect exposures and extension. • Always staff the PPV-Fan once more resources arrive (it may not be staffed in an initial Fast Attack with first-in Personnel) and before a second hose line enters. • Always be aware of Carbon Monoxide hazards when using gas PPV-Fans in areas where SCBA isn’t being worn (i.e., stairwell support). • Never make a vent outlet facing against a strong headwind. • Never use a PPA outlet point as an entry point.

Summary Positive pressure attack when utilized correctly can increase the effectiveness of fire fighters and survivability of occupants in structure fires. Command must initiate, coordinate and control the application and deployment of positive pressure attack (PPA) prior to firefighters entering the structure to ensure safety of personnel. As is the case during any aggressive fire attack, ongoing evaluation of conditions is extremely important, as the dynamic effects of PPA can occur rapidly. It is important that all members of the department are properly trained and understand the proper use of this offensive ventilation tactic.

Fire Chief ______

Page 570 County of Foothills: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0117 Hazardous Materials Response (HAZMAT) Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

By definition a hazardous materials incident is one in which any material whether it is a liquid, vapor, or solid, escapes its intended containment and presents the potential for serious injury or harm to persons and/or the environment. The following procedures have been established as a guide for all to use in such incidents to ensure that each incident is responded to in a timely manner, with adequate resources to provide for proper control, and to ensure safe operations for mitigation of the incident.

POLICY Hazardous Materials Classifications

Any incident suspected of/or involving any material in the following hazard classes will be established as a hazardous material incident. • Flammable Liquids (inside a structure) • Flammable Solids • Radioactive Materials • Organic Peroxides • Cryogenics • Poisons (gases, liquids, or solids) • Flammable Gas • Non-Flammable Gas • Oxidizers • Corrosives/Acids or caustics • Biological Agents • Environmentally Hazardous Substances (DOT Class 9 Materials) • All Flammable or Combustible Liquids - over 20 gallons in an outside area.

Responsibility

Page 571 According to federal regulations and standards, the Foothills Fire Department’s shall act and perform hazardous materials response and provide: • Technical expertise • Assistance • Appropriate equipment • Response for the protection of life, property, and the environment

The standing orders are as follows: • 1st arriving Officer: Investigation, Scene Assessment, Immediate Control Actions, Incident Command, establish Decontamination Group and Establish Rapid Intervention Team. • Medic Unit: Establish Medical Group • Second arriving unit (mutual aid): Establish Recon/Entry Group

The Incident Commander may return units they feel are not needed to safely control the incident after a complete size-up has been completed. Other Fire Department units may be dispatched, as needed. Responding units should ensure that the response to such incidents meet the procedures contained within this document.

Hazardous Materials Response Assignment – Out of Response area

The requesting district shall as a minimum, have one engine company, one Incident Commander and one local law enforcement officer at the scene of the incident. The FFD shall work in conjunction with the local fire department, or agency requesting assistance. The requesting department or agency shall have control of the incident and the FFD shall assist as a technical resource and provide manpower (Haz-Mat Operations). The officer-in-charge of any mutual aid assignment shall reserve the right to refuse any assignment that they deem too hazardous for the members. FFD personnel shall not act as the Incident Commander for incidents within other communities or jurisdictions but may serve as part of a Unified Incident Command System.

Response Guidelines Hazardous materials emergencies can pose a great threat to both the public and emergency responders. Following basic safety procedures can assist the emergency responders in ensuring the safety of those involved in these incidents. Since it is impossible to eliminate all risks associated with the release of a hazardous material there must be an effective emergency response procedure in place. The response activities should be based upon information received and the type of hazardous material released.

Level I Description:

Page 572 • Possess a minimal danger to life, property, and the environment • Container size may be a small drum, bucket, package or bag • Has a low fire/explosive potential

Leak Severity: • No release or small release from the container • Personnel can contain, or confine with available resources • No damage to the container

Environmental Impact: • Minimal • Non-life threatening

Level II Description: • Moderate danger to life, property, and the environment • May have the potential of involving additional exposures • Medium container size (i.e. 1- ton cylinder, portable container, multiple small containers) • Medium fire/explosion potential

Leak Severity: • Release may be controlled with special resources • Medium amount of a corrosive, flammable, poison or toxin • Medium release of any toxic vapors that may pose a life safety hazard • Release of 40 pounds or more in a solid form • Release of 100 gallons or more liquid

Environmental Impact: • Moderate • Localized area, limited evacuation area

Level III Description: • Extremely dangerous to life, property, and the environment • Release is beyond the initial property and effects exposures • Covers a large geographical area, and may be long term • Involvement of multiple hazardous materials

Page 573 Leak Severity: • Release requires multiple agencies • Release may not be controllable, even with special resources • Major release of flammable, corrosive, or toxic vapors • Material release that affects major waterways • Large release (e.g. rail tank car, tank truck, stationary storage tank, multiple medium size containers) • Damage so extensive that catastrophic rupture is possible

Environmental Impact: • Severe • Requires mass evacuation • Activation of Crisis Emergency Plan

The initial action of the first responding unit is critical to insure a positive outcome of the incident. They must establish control of the incident scene and isolate the public from the problem. The fire departments operations cannot begin until the Incident Management System is established.

Information to be gathered initially: 1. Obtain wind speed and direction. 2. Request the name of the hazardous material involved, if possible. 3. Determine the physical state of the material (Gas, Solid, and Liquid) 4. Is there a vapor cloud present, and is it moving. 5. Plan your approach to the incident, Upwind, Uphill, and Upstream.

Response considerations: 1. Obtain additional information from dispatch, if possible. 2. The use of Hazardous Materials Guidebook is strongly suggested for first in apparatus. 3. If the material is known, use the Emergency Response Guidebook’s process and other resources to determine the initial appropriate actions. 4. Reevaluate the response route if necessary.

Scene Arrival Actions: 1. Avoid committing to a dangerous situation without considering options. Take a defensive role initially by utilizing basic hazardous materials awareness techniques: establishing control zones, notification of additional resources, and denying entry to the area. 2. Initiate the Incident Command System with a strong and possibly unified command presence. 3. The command post should be established a safe distance from the incident in the cold zone. 4. Staging should be considered for large amounts of resources. Formal staging requires a Staging Area Manager, usually the company officer from the first arriving unit in staging.

Page 574 5. Personnel accountability should be initiated by collecting ID Tags and managing them at the command post. 6. The problem should be confirmed and identified. Do not assume that the dispatch information was necessarily correct. 7. Identify the involved material, or materials. 8. Obtain information from the involved party. 9. Locate the shipping papers, MSDS sheets, label, or placard. 10. Notate the containers shape, size, and damage extent, if possible. 11. Isolate the area by establishing the Initial Safe Zone. a. Use barrier tape, ropes, or natural barriers to keep people out. 12. Establish a separate holding area for contaminated civilians and response personnel. 13. Always wear protective clothing and SCBA anytime there is a possibility of exposure to the hazardous material.

Intervention Tactics All hazardous materials incidents shall have a structured intervention system. This system shall be group-based and have the responsibilities listed below. In large multi-strategy incidents, a hazardous materials branch may be enacted. Most incidents will involve an ICS setup similar to the chart below: In addition to normal ICS functions conducted by the Rapid Intervention Team, Safety Officer, and Incident Commander, other specialized roles may be conducted.

Assistant Safety Officer - Haz-Mat Entry/Recon Group Decontamination Group

Assistant Safety Officer 1. Shall report directly to the Safety Officer. 2. Responsible for coordinating safety activities dealing with operations in the hazardous materials hot zone. 3. Has the authority to suspend, alter, or change any operation when deemed necessary to protect the safety of any responder. 4. Must have a high level of technical knowledge to anticipate a wide range of safety hazards associated with the Haz-Mat incident. 5. Shall be trained at the Hazardous Material Technician level. 6. Shall be responsible for assuring: • The Safety Plan has been developed and implemented. • The protection of all entry personnel from physical, chemical, and/or environmental hazards and exposure. • Identify and monitor all personnel operating within the Hot Zone. • That EMS personnel and/or units are provided.

Page 575 • That the Health exposure logs and records are maintained. • That the Personnel Accountability System is in place 8. Radio designation shall be “Haz-Mat Safety”.

Entry/Recon Group 1. Shall consist of all personnel responsible for entering and operating in the “Hot Zone” to accomplish the objectives as set forth in the Incident Action Plan. 2. Shall be trained at the Hazardous Materials Technician level. 3. Shall recommend actions to the Incident commander for controlling the emergency situation in the “Hot Zone”. 4. Shall implement all offensive and defensive actions as directed. 5. Shall coordinate all entry operations with the Decontamination Group. 6. Shall have one individual appointed as the “Entry Officer.” 7. Radio designation shall be “Entry Group”.

Decontamination Group 1. Determine the appropriate level of Decontamination to be used. 2. Shall be trained at the Haz-Mat Operations or Technician level. 3. Provide the appropriate decontaminations procedures, including the area, set up, methods, procedures, staffing, and appropriate clothing. 4. Coordinate the decontamination operations with the Entry Officer and others in the hot zone. 5. Coordinate the transfer of decontaminated patients to the Medical Group. 6. Establish the Decon area before any members enter the “Hot Zone”. 7. Monitor the effectiveness of the Decon operations. 8. Shall have one individual designated as the “Decon Officer”. 9. Radio designation shall be “Decon”.

Because of complexity of the hazardous material incident there are precise actions that must take place to assure the safety of the public and emergency responders at the scene. The incident commander must assure that the safety of all participants and the public be placed as the highest priority. Scene control must always be initiated upon arrival. This may include, but not restricted to, material identification, atmosphere monitoring, hazardous control zones, Decontamination, emergency medical, containment and control of the substance.

Hazard Control Zones The purpose for establishing control zones is to assure the highest level of control and personnel accountability. Defined zones also assure that workers do not inadvertently enter areas where they may become contaminated or overcome by the hazardous material. Hazard control zones are designated from the most dangerous to the least dangerous.

Page 576 The zones shall be established as the Hot Zone, Warm Zone, and Cold Zone.

Considerations in establishing Control Zones • Weather conditions (current and forecast) • Air monitoring and sampling. • Air dispersion calculations • Physical, chemical, and toxicological characteristics of the material. • Potential for fire and explosion. • Physical and topographic features of the incident site. • Proximity to populated areas. • Zone shape and size adequate for the conditions present.

Hot Zone This is the area immediately surrounding the hazardous material. This zone may also be referred to as the “Exclusion Zone”. This zone is potentially Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) and may contain physical or chemical hazards. All personnel entering this zone must wear the appropriate level of protection. Entry and Exiting from the Hot Zone may only be done through protected corridors. These corridors shall be set forth in the site safety plan.

Warm Zone This zone is directly outside of the “Hot Zone”. This area is where personnel and equipment Decontamination takes place. This is also the area in which the support for the “Hot Zone” operations takes place. This zone controls the “Hot Zone” corridors and perimeter.

Cold Zone This zone is considered the “Safety Control Zone”. This zone contains the command post and support functions. The “Cold Zone” also contains the Staging and EMS functions.

Monitoring and Detection Monitoring and detection is vital in establishing and controlling of the emergency scene. Monitoring provides for the evaluation of real time data. This data is used to determine the appropriate level of personal protective equipment to be used by hazardous materials responders. Monitoring also determines the Hazardous Control Zones, potential health effects of those exposed, and the appropriate action that must be developing in the site safety action plan.

Monitoring Procedure 1. Use the appropriate level of protective clothing. 2. Approach from Up Wind, Up Hill when possible. 3. Use the appropriate monitoring equipment.

Page 577 4. Personnel should have an idea of what the reading should be. 5. Never assume the presence of only one chemical. 6. Interpret the readings in more than one manner. 7. Establish action levels based upon instrument readings. 8. Document all monitor readings or report readings to the incident commander.

Response Tools and Equipment Because of the complexity of each incident, the responding resources. Must have, at its disposal, a large variety of tools and equipment that can be utilized during the incident. These tools may range from hand tools, to specialized tools that will be required to bring the incident to a controlled state. Other equipment that may be required is patch kits, absorbents, and packaging containers. Each member, especially those assigned to the Special Operations Team, must be familiar with all equipment and its use.

Tool and equipment care 1. Tools and equipment shall be inspected for damage and or missing components during the weekly check and after each hazardous materials incident. 2. All broken and damaged tools and equipment shall be taken out of service. All reports of damaged or broken tools and equipment should be forwarded to both the City Wide Tour Commander and Fire Chief. 3. All contaminated tools and equipment must be decontaminated before being placed back into service. 4. All tools and equipment shall be inventoried weekly according to the apparatus inspection policy.

Medical Evaluations Medical monitoring is the systematic, ongoing evaluation. Medical monitoring allows for the obtaining of the pre-medical and post-medical conditions of all personnel performing activities at the incident scene. Medical monitoring also allows for early recognition of any adverse physiological effects resulting from the on scene activities.

Pre-Entrance Medical Monitoring 1. Pre-Entrance monitoring shall be performed on all members that must wear any type of chemical entry suit (Level A, Level B). A designated and trained individual shall perform all pre-entrance medical evaluations.

Pre-Entrance monitoring shall consist of: • Blood Pressure. • Pulse. • Respiratory rate. • Temperature.

Page 578 • EKG rhythm strip (if available). • Skin evaluation (rashes, open sores/wounds, etc.). • Mental status (alert and oriented to time and place). • Medication use in the last 72 hrs. • Alcohol consumption in the last 24 hrs. • Weight All medical information shall be recorded on the “Medical Evaluation Form” / PCR. Upon completion of decontamination and suit removal all participants shall be medically monitored.

The Post Medical Monitoring shall consist of: Any immediate effects from the contact with the hazardous material. • Vital signs. • Blood pressure. • Respiratory rate. • Temperature. • EKG strip (if available). • Skin evaluation. • Mental status. • Weight If the following symptoms are present, transport to a medical facility immediately. • Body weight loss greater than 3%. • Increase in pulse greater than 20 beats per minute. • A temperature greater than 101°F (oral) 102°F (core). • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. • Altered mental status. • Respiratory, cardiac, or dermatological complaints. • Systolic blood pressure decrease by 20mm of Hg at two minutes standing. All the information shall be recorded on a “Medical Evaluation Form” / PCR.

Decontamination Each hazardous materials incident has the potential of personnel, equipment, and the general public coming into contact with the hazardous material and becoming contaminated. This contamination not only becomes a threat to the one that has become contaminated, but also to those individuals that have contact with the contaminated individual. For this reason, it is the responsibility of the incident commander to confine all effected individuals in the “Hot Zone”. This must be done until an appropriate method of decontamination has been chosen and a decontamination corridor has been established.

Page 579 Decontamination Site Selection

The site selection should be located in an accessible area in the “Warm Zone”. Consideration should be made as to the ability for a water supply, run off potential and environmentally sensitive areas. Always place the decontamination site uphill and up wind of the contaminated area.

Decontamination Corridor The decontamination corridor is the area that leading from the “Hot Zone” into the Decon area. This corridor shall be established by the Decontamination Group and shall be identifiable by all personnel on the scene.

Decontamination Methods This involves the contaminant’s physical removal from the exposed person and allows for proper disposal. This method only reduces the concentration of the product and does not reduce the hazard potential.

Physical Methods of Decontamination 1. Absorption and Adsorption. 2. Brushing and scraping. 3. Isolation and Disposal. 4. Vacuuming. 5. Washing. 6. Dilution

Chemical Methods of Decontamination 1. Chemical degradation. 2. Neutralization. 3. Solidification. 4. Disinfections or sterilization.

Decontamination Site Set-up Decontamination shall consist of the following elements at a minimum: 1. Entry and exit lanes 2. Tool drop area (Hot Zone) 3. Single wash and rinse station with the use of a liquid recovery pool. The “Decontamination Group” shall use P.P.E. equal to or one step under those used by the “Entry Group”. 4. SCBA removal station and reclamation site 5. Suit doffing area with disposal or reclamation drum 6. Medical monitoring station

Page 580

Fire Chief ______

Page 581 County of Foothills: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0118 Search and Rescue Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

GUIDELINES

Search and rescue should be performed according to an efficient, well planned procedure, while taking into account the safety of search crew personnel. The object of the search effort is to locate possible victims, not create additional ones by neglecting the safety of the search crew.

Prior to entering the search area, all search team members should be familiar with a specific plan, including the overall objective, a designation of the search area, and individual assignments, etc. This may require a brief conference among crew members before entering the search area to develop and communicate the plan.

• Search activities should be conducted by two or more members.

• Officers must maintain an awareness of the location and function of all members within their crew during search operations, (Accountability).

• A brief look around the floor below the fire may provide good reference for the search team, as floors in multi-story occupancies usually have a similar layout, (Size-up).

• Whenever a search is conducted that exposes search crews to fire conditions (particularly above the fire floor) the search team should be protected as soon as possible with a charged hose line, in order to ensure a safe escape route.

• If search personnel are operating without a hose line, lifelines should be used when encountering conditions of severely limited visibility. Thermal Imagers should be utilized to assist with all searches.

Unless otherwise instructed, use Search and Rescue Procedures taught, which is a right-handed search.

Page 582

It is standard operating procedure to extend a primary search in all involved and exposed occupancies which can be entered. Command must structure initial operations around the completion of the primary search. A primary search involves personal quickly checking all affected areas for possible victims. Time is the critical factor when performing a primary search.

The completion of the primary search is reported utilizing the standard radio reporting term “ALL CLEAR.” It is the responsibility of Command to coordinate primary search assignments, secure completion reports from interior Teams, and to transmit the “ALL CLEAR” report to Dispatch. Dispatch will record the time of this report from Command.

The rescue functions that follow initial fire control activities will be regarded as a secondary search. A secondary is the systematic and thorough search of all affected areas to confirm the absence of any victims. The secondary search should preferably be conducted by crews that were not involved with the primary search. Thoroughness is the critical factor when performing a secondary search. Upon completion of the secondary search, Units involved shall report to Command, “Secondary Search Complete”. Do not use the term “ALL CLEAR”, as it pertains only to the primary search.

The stage of the fire becomes a critical factor that affects the rescue approach developed by Command. The following items outline the basic Command approach to fire stages:

• In “NOTHING SHOWING” situations, or in very minor cases that clearly pose no life hazard, Command must structure a rapid interior search and report “ALL CLEAR”.

• In “SMOKE SHOWING” and “WORKING FIRE” situations, fire control efforts must be extended simultaneously with rescue operations in order to gain entry and control interior access to complete the primary search.

In cases of fully involved buildings or sections of buildings, immediate entry and primary search activities become impossible and survival of occupants is improbable. Command will initially report fully involved conditions and advise Communications that there will not be a primary search performed. As quickly as fire control is achieved, Command must structure what is in effect, a secondary search for victims.

Command and operating Personnel cannot depend upon reports from spectators or occupants to determine the status of victims. Control teams should utilize reports as to the location, number, and condition of victims as supporting primary search efforts and must extend and complete a primary search wherever entry is possible. Command must consider the following factors in developing a basic rescue size-up.

Page 583

• Number, location, and condition of victims

• Effect the fire has on victims

• Capability to enter the building, remove/protect victims and control power

Command must make the basic rescue decision:

• Do we remove victims from fire? • Do we remove the fire from the victims? (“Defend in place”)

In some cases, occupants are safer in their rooms, rather than moving through contaminated hallways and interior areas. Such movement may also impede interior firefighting. Command must realistically evaluate the personnel required to remove victims and treat their fire-induced injuries. In fire involving multiple victims, Command must call for the timely response of adequate resources and quickly develop an organization that will both stabilize the fire and provide for the removal and treatment of the occupants.

Rescue efforts should be extended in the following order:

• Most severely threatened

• The largest number (groups)

• The remainder of the fire area

• The exposed area

Command must make specific primary search assignments for Personnel to cover specific areas of large/complex occupancies and maintain ongoing control of such Personnel until the entire area is searched. When primary search Personnel encounter and remove victims, Command must assign other Personnel to continue to cover the interior position vacated by those Personnel.

All initial attack efforts must be directed to support rescue efforts. The placement of hose lines is a critical factor and must be placed in a manner to control interior access, confine the fire, and protect the avenues of escape. It may be necessary to operate in a manner that writes off part or all of the structure in order to buy rescue time. Normal means of interior access (stairs, halls, interior public

Page 584 areas, etc.), should be utilized to remove victims whenever possible. Secondary means of rescue (platforms, ladders, fire escapes, etc.), must be utilized in their order of effectiveness.

Command must structure treatment of victims after removal. Multiple victims should be moved to one location for more effective treatment. Command should coordinate and utilize EMS capability wherever available and assign treatment Personal as required to an exterior Medical Group.

Once the primary search has been completed and “ALL CLEAR” transmitted, Command must ensure control of access to the fire area. Beware of occupants (and others) reentering the building.

Command must develop a realistic (and pessimistic) rescue size-up as early as possible. The most urgent reason for calling additional resources is to provide life safety.

Fire Chief ______

Page 585 County of Foothills: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0121 Derelict Property Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

This SOP deals with fires involving Derelict Property - residential, commercial or industrial.

Derelict properties present significant hazards to Firefighters, over and above those encountered at a normal occupied property fire or other incident. Derelict properties attract a high incidence of arson due to being unoccupied or under limited management that does not ensure the security of premises against deliberate acts. Homeless/itinerate persons may use such a property for shelter and may light fires to keep warm and remove boarding, shutters etc. for access and light.

Derelict properties may also have hazardous waste such as, Asbestos Containing Materials that are costly to dispose of legally.

Significant Hazards

• Dangerous structures – in various states of disrepair e.g. walls/floors may be missing • Increased risk of structural collapse – due to removal of structural components causing early collapse during a fire • Uneven ground conditions • Flashover – increased risk due to absence of internal floors, ceilings, walls and doors leading to rapid fire spread • Backdraft – boarded up properties are hard to ventilate and fire loading may be high • Exposed utilities – must be considered “live” until checked by a competent engineer. Damaged or poorly secured cables may entangle or electrocute Firefighters • Difficult external and internal access • Asbestos – may be exposed or damaged. Buildings built or refurbished between 1950 and 1985 (particularly 1960’s and 70’s) pose the highest risk • Booby traps – to cause harm or to deter FRS/Police from entering premises. Including: trip wires, razor blades, deliberately placed needles, cylinders/aerosols placed in fires, deliberately unsafe conditions e.g. floorboard/stair removal

Page 586 • Hypodermic needles – drug users may be living in premises with needles/syringes discarded throughout. Be aware of “stick” injuries – any injury must be reported immediately and medical advice sought • Biological hazards – Human or animal excrement, risk of Weil’s disease (Leptospirosis). Wear gloves at all times and do not eat, smoke or drink without being suitably decontaminated e.g. anti-bacterial hand washing • Industrial property – may contain features of and residue from processes, e.g. chemicals, pits, machinery etc. OFRS pre-planning (SSRI etc.) may not include these premises as it is derelict • Environmental Pollution – water run-off from fires may cause pollution, especially from former industrial premises

Control Measures and Action

• Dynamic Risk Assessment – continuously by all personnel on the fire ground • External Firefighting – should be the default approach in all cases where there are not “Persons Reported”, unless changed as a result of the Incident Commander’s DRA • Use of Ground Monitors and Aerial Appliances • Safety Officer(s) • Isolation of all utilities as soon as possible, requesting attendance of supply company if required • Full PPE- with addition of BA if appropriate • If Asbestos is confirmed/suspected, - respiratory protection must be provided, gloves must be worn at all times, no eating, drinking or smoking without adequate decontamination

Be aware of the need for scene preservation for subsequent Fire Investigation

Additional Information

A number of different techniques are commonly used to secure Derelict Properties and these can be problematic for Firefighters trying to gain access:

• Blocked up doorways • High-security Metal Shutters • Boarding up

Members must psychologically adjust to a “no rush” approach in these buildings; the life hazard is to the firefighter. A slower, more cautious operation is definitely indicated.

Page 587 The life hazard at vacant building fires is almost solely that of our operating members. It must be stressed; the primary emphasis in vacant building operations is that of exterior attack.

A well-involved building would likely represent a zero survivability profile. Similar conditions in an abandoned building would indicate little survivability and little property to be saved and members should avoid an offensive fire fight.

No property is worth the life of a member of the Foothills Fire Department.

No level of risk to responders is acceptable in situations where there is no potential to save lives or property.

It is important to state that we are not advocating all interior attacks as being inappropriate, just those that cross the line of unacceptable risk.

Fire Chief ______

Page 588 County of Foothills: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0122 MVC Blocking Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Overview This guideline identifies vehicle positioning practices for Foothills Fire Department apparatus and emergency vehicles that provides maximum protection and safety for personnel operating in or near moving vehicle traffic. In addition, these procedures emphasize efforts to maintain lanes of moving traffic around the incident scene to minimize the traffic queue and the inherent probability of secondary collisions. Efforts to complete safe and efficient clearance of the incident scene in as short a timeframe as possible are recommended. Policy It shall be the policy of the Foothills Fire Department to initially position apparatus and other emergency vehicles at an incident on any street, road, highway or expressway in a manner that best protects the incident scene while at the same time providing for traffic movement past the incident scene as much as reasonably possible. Such positioning shall afford protection to fire department personnel, law enforcement officers, EMS, tow service operators, and or other emergency personnel while working in or near moving traffic. Risk Assessment All personnel should understand and appreciate the high risk that personnel are exposed to when operating in or near moving vehicle traffic. Responders should always operate within a protected environment at any roadway incident. Always consider moving vehicles as a threat to your safety. At every roadway emergency scene, personnel are exposed to passing motorists of varying driving abilities. Responders must accept that motorists approaching the incident scene on the roadway may be a ‘D’ driver; drunk, drugged, drowsy, distracted, or just plain dumb. It is the ‘D’ driver that may be completely oblivious to your presence due to distractions or impairments. Distracted motorists will often be looking at the scene and not the roadway in front of them where you might be operating. Assume that all approaching traffic is a ‘D’ driver and is out to get you until proven otherwise.

Page 589 Night time incidents and inclement weather conditions are particularly hazardous. Visibility is reduced and driver reaction time to hazards in the roadway is slowed. Adjust operations accordingly.

Terminology 1. Advance Warning- notification procedures that advise approaching motorists to transition from normal driving status to that required by the temporary emergency traffic control measures ahead of them. 2. Block- positioning a fire department apparatus on an angle to the lanes of traffic creating a physical barrier between upstream traffic and the work area. Includes ‘block to the right’ or’ block to the left’. 3. Buffer Zone- the distance or space between personnel and vehicles in the protected work zone and nearby moving traffic. 4. Downstream- the direction that traffic is moving as it travels away from the incident scene. 5. Flagger- a fire department member assigned to monitor or direct approaching traffic and activate an emergency signal if the actions of a motorist do not conform to established traffic control measures in place at the highway scene 6. Linear- positioning a fire department apparatus parallel to or within a travel lane or shoulder of a roadway. Linear positioning only creates a physical barrier within that lane or shoulder of the roadway. 7. Taper- the action of merging lanes of moving traffic into fewer moving lanes. 8. Temporary Traffic Control Zone- the physical area of a roadway within which emergency personnel perform their fire, EMS and rescue tasks at a vehicle-related incident. 9. Transition Zone- the lanes of a roadway within which approaching motorists change their speed and position to comply with the traffic control measures established at an incident scene. 10. Upstream- the direction that traffic is traveling from as the vehicles approach the incident scene.

‘Move It’ Incidents

Page 590 All emergency personnel are at great risk of injury or death while operating in or near moving traffic. There are several specific tactical procedures that should be taken to protect all responders and emergency service personnel at the incident scene including; A. Consider that all approaching drivers are ‘D’ drivers B. Establish an initial “block” with the first arriving emergency vehicle or fire apparatus while the initial size-up survey is completed C. Always wear high visibility, florescent and reflective garments (vest or jacket) during roadway operations. When full protective NFPA compliant clothing is required by department SOG, high- visibility vests must be worn over structural turnout gear or station coveralls except for members combatting a fire situation or dealing directly with hazardous materials. D. All fire department members must wear structural firefighting helmet with chinstrap donned properly. E. Operators of emergency vehicles at the scene should complete ‘light shedding’; turning off all lights such as vehicle headlights, forward-facing warning lights, or spotlights that might create vision impairment to approaching motorists at nighttime incidents. F. Employ the ‘Move It’ or ‘Work It’ strategy. Determine if vehicles involved can be moved out of the travel lanes to an off-roadway location. Moving to an off- roadway location improves responder safety, minimizes congestion, and assists with safe, quick clearance; the “Move It” strategy G. If vehicles can be moved out of the travel lanes of the roadway, attempt to clear the travel lanes in less than 30 minutes; Minor duration incident.

‘Work It’ Incidents The following are benchmarks for Safe Positioning of apparatus and emergency vehicles when the crash-damaged vehicle cannot be moved out of the travel lanes of the roadway and crews must work the incident at the location found upon arrival. If incident is a ‘Work It’ situation, establish Command according to ICS protocols, employ upstream advance warning and temporary traffic control transition measures to warn approaching motorists, and attempt to reduce their vehicle speed. Incident duration is anticipated to exceed 30 minutes.

A. Position first-arriving apparatus to protect the scene, patients, and emergency personnel. • Initial apparatus placement should create an initial incident area protected from traffic approaching in at least one direction. Intersections or where the incident may be near the middle lanes of a multi-lane roadway require two or more sides of the incident to be protected.

Page 591 • Angle apparatus on the roadway with a “block to the left” or a “block to the right” to create a physical barrier between the crash scene and approaching traffic. Block at least one additional traffic lane more than that already obstructed by the crashed vehicle(s); obstructed Lane + 1 strategy. Shoulder of the highway can be counted as a lane. • The front wheels of blocking vehicles should be turned away from the downstream work area • For first arriving fire department units where a charged hose line may be needed, block so that the pump panel is downstream, on the opposite side of on-coming traffic. This will protect the pump operator. B. Ambulances should be positioned within the protected work area and have their rear patient loading area angled away from the nearest lanes of moving traffic C. Additional responder vehicles and personnel working the incident should either support advanced warning efforts or be positioned within the protected area created by the blocking apparatus. D. Command shall stage unneeded emergency vehicles off the roadway, place them in a Staging area on the downstream side of the incident, or return these units to service. E. Lanes of traffic shall be identified numerically as “Lane 1”, “Lane 2”, etc., beginning from the left to the right when considered from the motorist’s point of view driving in those lanes. F. Traffic cones or cones with flares alongside should be deployed upstream to increase the advance warning for approaching motorists. Cones and flares identify but only suggest the transition and tapering actions that are requested of the approaching motorist. G. Personnel shall place cones and flares as well as shall retrieve cones while facing oncoming traffic. A Buddy system is recommended for deployment and retrieval. H. Adequate advance warning to approaching motorists should be put in place using flares or traffic cones deployed at intervals of no greater than 40’ apart upstream of the blocking apparatus. The furthest traffic cone that begins the taper and closing of a travel lane should be positioned upstream along the edge or shoulder of the roadway. I. Additional personnel may extend the advanced warning area by placing additional emergency vehicles, traffic cones, flares, deployable signs, and arrow boards to build upon initial traffic control measures as the incident duration exceeds 30 minutes. Placing flares, where safe to do so, adjacent to and in combination with traffic cones for nighttime operations greatly enhances motorist warning and scene safety. J. Progressively open lanes of traffic as safely and efficiently as practical as the incident is dealt with. Once cleared of vehicles, patients and debris, opening of a traffic lane will reduce the queue and minimize the chances of secondary collisions.

Page 592

Incident Command Benchmarks The initial-arriving company officer and/or the Incident Commander must complete critical benchmarks to assure that a safe and protected work environment for emergency scene personnel is established and maintained including; A. Assure that the first-arriving apparatus establishes an initial block to create an initial safe work area B. Determine if incident is a ‘Move It’ situation where vehicles can be relocated out of the normal travel lanes thereby reducing responder exposure to moving traffic and improving incident clearance time. C. Determine if the incident is a ‘Work It’ situation in which the vehicles involved must remain in their present location as fire, rescue, and medical activities take place. D. Assure that all ambulances on-scene are placed within the downstream, protected work area of the larger apparatus. • Assure that all patients loading into ambulances are done from within a protected work area.

E. The initial company officer and/or Incident Commander must operate as the Scene Safety Officer until this assignment is delegated. F. Command shall assure that ‘light-shedding’ protocols including Opticom strobe systems and high-beam headlights are turned OFF and that other emergency lighting remains ON as necessary.

Emergency Crew Personnel Benchmarks Listed below are benchmarks for safe actions of individual personnel when operating in or near moving vehicle traffic. A. Always maintain an acute awareness of the high risk of working in or near moving traffic. They are out to get you! B. Never trust the ‘D’ driver in the moving traffic that is approaching you. C. Always look before you move! D. Avoid turning your back to moving traffic.

Page 593 E. Personnel arriving in crew cabs of fire apparatus should exit and enter the apparatus from the protected, downstream side, away from moving traffic. F. Officers, apparatus operators, crew members in apparatus with individual jump seat configurations and all ambulance personnel must exit and enter their units with extreme caution remaining alert to moving traffic at all times. G. Protective clothing, high-visibility safety garment, and helmet with chin strap in position should be donned prior to exiting the emergency vehicle. • During normal daylight conditions, don helmet and high visibility garment or NFPA compliant turnout PPE and high-visibility vest when operating in or near moving traffic. • During dusk to dawn operations or when ambient lighting is reduced due to inclement weather conditions, don helmet, full NFPA compliant protective clothing and high- visibility vest. • All staff personnel and any other personnel arriving on an apparatus or emergency vehicle should don assigned helmet and high-visibility garment prior to exiting their vehicle. H. Always look before opening doors and stepping out of apparatus or emergency vehicle into any moving traffic areas. When walking around fire apparatus or emergency vehicle, be alert to your proximity to moving traffic. • Stop at the corner of a blocking position unit, check for moving traffic, and then proceed along the unit remaining as close to the emergency vehicle as possible. • Maintain a ‘reduced profile’ when moving through any area where a minimum ‘buffer zone’ condition exists.

High-Volume, Limited Access Highway Operations High-volume, limited access divided highways include expressways, turnpikes, freeways, toll ways, and other multi-lane roadways within the response area. A desire to keep the traffic moving on these high- volume thoroughfares is inherent in all operations. When in the judgment of Command (or Unified Command), it becomes essential for the safety of operating personnel and the patients involved, any or all lanes, shoulders, and entry/exit ramps of these limited access highways can be completely shut down. This, however, should rarely occur and should be for as short a period of time as practical. Unique Safe Positioning procedures at locations such as expressway, freeway, and limited-access, high-volume multi-lane roadway incidents include; 1. Travel lanes are typically 12 feet in width. First-arriving engine company apparatus should establish an initial Lane +1 block position.

Page 594 2. A large and heavy second fire apparatus such as a ladder truck shall be automatically dispatched to all incidents on all limited-access, high-volume expressways, tollways, freeways, and highways. 3. The primary assignment of this second unit shall be to; • Establish an upstream block occupying a minimum of two 12’ lanes plus the paved shoulder of the highway or blockage of three 12’ driving lanes of traffic upstream of the initial block provided by the first-due apparatus. • The position of this apparatus shall take into consideration all conditions that might limit sight distance of the approaching traffic including ambient lighting conditions, weather- related conditions, road conditions, curves, bridges, hills and over- or underpasses. • Traffic cones and/or cones illuminated by flares and the NFPA-compliant retro-reflective pink Emergency Scene Ahead deployable sign should be placed upstream of the second vehicle by its crew at the direction of the company officer. • Traffic cones on limited-access, high-volume roadways can be placed at 40’ intervals with the furthest cone and or flare approximately 200 feet “upstream”, to allow adequate warning to drivers. When incident duration exceeds two hours, advance warning efforts should be as compliant with the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) requirements as possible. • A flagger/spotter person should be positioned if available to monitor the response of approaching motorists as they are directed to transition to a slower speed and taper into merged lanes of traffic. • Command should be notified by this flagger/spotter on the incident operating channel of any approaching traffic that is not responding to the speed changes, transition, tapering and merging directions. • Flagger/spotter should have the capability of activating a pre-determined audible warning to operating personnel of a non-compliant motorist approaching.

4. Vehicles from law enforcement and transportation departments can be used to provide additional blocking of additional traffic lanes as needed as incident duration exceeds 30 minutes; MUTCD minor duration.

5. When an incident duration exceeds 30 minutes, it becomes an Intermediate duration incident. During this period of time, efforts should evolve around clearing the scene as expeditiously as possible. For extended duration incidents such as hazardous materials situations, Command should request appropriate traffic incident management personnel and resources. When the lane or road closure exceeds two hours in duration, compliant traffic control measures should

Page 595 be in place. This can include traffic control center protocols, transportation department arrow board trucks, road detours, changeable message sign notifications, media contacts, etc., as appropriate. 6. Fire Department Command officer should establish a liaison with the Police Department as soon as possible. This Unified Command team will jointly coordinate activities and determine how to most efficiently resolve the extended duration incident and clear the obstructed travel lanes in as safe and efficient manner as practical. 7. Termination of the incident should be managed with the same aggressiveness as initial actions. Crews, apparatus, and equipment must be removed from the highway in a coordinated process to reduce exposure to moving traffic and minimize traffic congestion.

Officer’s Safe Parking “Cue Card” “Block” with first-arriving apparatus to protect the scene, patients, and emergency personnel. • Block at least one additional lane • Block so pump panel is “downstream” • Block most critical or highest traffic volume direction first • Consider requesting additional PD assistance Crews wear proper PPE w/Helmet • High-visibility garments at all times • Helmet at all times • Full PPE plus high-visibility vest between dusk and dawn or inclement weather • NFPA Compliant turnout gear is appropriate PPE whenever the crew is directly exposed to fire, heat, flame and/or hazardous materials. Establish more than adequate advance warning • Traffic cones at up to 40’ intervals • Deploy minimum 5 cones upstream • Cones only “Suggest” they don’t Block! • Expand initial safe work zone as temporary traffic control devices are available Direct placement of ambulances

Page 596 • Assure ambulances park within shadow of blocking apparatus as directed • Lane 1 is furthest left lane, next is Lane 2, then Lane 3, etc. from approaching motorist’s point of view • Direct ambulance to “block to the right” or “block to the left” to protect loading doors • Place ambulance patient loading area facing away from closest lane of moving traffic • All patient loading into ambulances is done from within a protected work zone

Page 597 Page 598

You are the Scene Safety Officer Consider assigning FF as upstream “Spotter” as necessary for approaching traffic. Night or Reduced Light Conditions • Turn OFF vehicle headlights • Turn OFF Opticom • Provide overall scene lighting • All personnel in appropriate PPE w/helmets • Illuminate cones with flares • Consider additional Trucks (Apperatus) for additional upstream “Block” Limited access, high-volume highway incidents • Establish initial block: minimum two lanes • Ladder truck establishes upstream block two lanes plus paved shoulder or three driving lanes • Place cones and/or cones illuminated by flares upstream of larger upstream blocking vehicle with the furthest cone approximately 200 feet “upstream” of apparatus • Establish Flagger position monitor approaching traffic sound emergency signal as necessary • Use police department and/or transportation department vehicles for additional blocking, advance warning, and traffic incident management. • Stage additional companies off highway • Establish liaison with Police Department to form Unified Command at scene. • Terminate incident aggressively with safe, quick clearance strategies.

Fire Chief ______

Page 599 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0123 Hostile or Violent situation Response Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose The purpose of this document is to provide guidance to Foothills Fire Department Incident Commanders and or first arriving units that respond to a hostile or violent situation or a situation that may become hostile or violent. The primary goal is to minimize the risk to Fire/EMS personnel and to provide a common framework on which fire departments may build a local protocol tailored to their specific community.

Hostile incidents present unique challenges to responders that may include: an active shooter, a barricaded suspect, a hostage situation, a high-risk (known felon) warrant service, domestic violence and possible terrorist acts.

Hostile incidents have the potential to result in serious injury to law enforcement officers, fire department personnel, EMS responders, the public, and/or the suspect(s). Depending on the tactics employed and the actions of the suspect(s), these incidents can become more complex due to resulting explosions and/or fires.

PRE-PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS • Develop Standard Operating Guidelines/Policies, model IAP’s, assess Risk versus Gain and determine adequate personal protective equipment (PPE). • Develop communication interoperability with EMS, law enforcement, or any other cooperating agencies. • Identify different work zones within an incident. • Identify Target Hazards and key components to each; control rooms, master keys, card swipes, isolation corridors, maps, and internal communication systems if applicable. • Assess “soft targets” identified by law enforcement such as bus/train stations, hotels, hospitals, theaters, concerts, shopping malls, schools and airports. • Train personnel on operational tactics, strategy, and contingency considerations similar to a Rapid Intervention Team (R.I.T.). • Develop joint training with assisting/cooperating agencies.

Page 600 INITIAL DISPATCH CONSIDERATIONS • Confirm type of incident i.e. active shooter, barricaded suspect, hostage situation, terrorist acts. • Verify scene security. • Determine the number of victim(s)/hostage(s), and their status. • Don appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). • Identify hazards, threats, and/or intelligence. • Identify Incident Command Post (ICP) location and Staging Areas, control points, or any established perimeter. • Determine appropriate access and response routes. • Identify communications plan. • Determine protective actions status and needs. • Identify law enforcement contact person or Liaison with phone number. • Determine overhead and resource needs. • Determine the resource ordering process.

INITIAL BRIEFING • Obtain briefing from law enforcement upon arrival and develop the ICS organization as necessary. • Establish Unified Command. • Determine level of “Force Protection” required taking action. • Ensure Force Protection is assigned to groups or functions as needed. • Coordinate with local law enforcement to confirm type and location of threat. • Obtain current incident status and threat assessment. • Determine resources currently assigned, requested, and their locations. • Determine the number of suspects/threat and their status. • Determine the number of victim(s)/hostage(s), status. • Identify incident potential. • Identify zones and perimeters. Do not get fixed in on concentric circles surrounding a crisis site, the zones might be discontinuous depending on shooter or threat locations and available cover or concealment. • Identify Incident Objectives. • Determine if “shelter in place” or “evacuation” strategy is going to be implemented? • Determine number and location of sorting areas for evacuees to facilitate law enforcement processing. • Confirm Incident Communications Plan. • Establish and communicate appropriate Escape Route(s).

MEDICAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT • Determine appropriate location for staging of medical resources. • Identify patient treatment area. The Staging Area should: • Provide rapid access to the incident location. • Be located outside the view of the incident location.

Page 601 • For operational efficiency, separate staging areas may be identified for each discipline. • Consider requesting law enforcement for security. • Verify ambulance transport capability. Order additional units as needed. • Notify the appropriate medical authority. • Determine status of local medical facilities, drawdown or diversion. • Provide rapid egress of patients – to pre-designated extraction points. • Identify and secure Landing Zones (LZ’s) in coordination with Law Enforcement. • Develop ambulance loading ingress/egress traffic plan.

FIRE SUPPRESSION CONSIDERATIONS • Evaluate scene safety before making entry. • Determine fire attack strategy (Offensive vs. Defensive). • Determine if force protection is necessary. • Determine location and status of occupants. • Assess risks with ammunition or explosives under fire conditions and flash grenades. • Consider and/or coordinate the use of unstaffed master stream appliance(s). • Consider applying water to fires from cover. • Assess the need for decontamination of victim’s and/or fire personnel secondary to exposure to pepper spray, flash bangs, nuclear or biological chemicals. • Consider multiple staging locations. • Pre plan water sources and routes into incident for water supply. • Consider the need for Hazardous Materials resources.

Zones and Perimeters

HOT ZONE: The area where a direct and immediate threat exists. A direct and immediate threat is very dynamic and is determined by complexity and circumstances of the incident. Examples of direct and immediate threat are an active shooter, a barricaded suspect, a hostage situation, a high-risk warrant service and possible terrorist acts. Could also be classified as the “Inner Perimeter” by law enforcement, an area within the range of active gunfire or secondary devices Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH). Law enforcement should also consider the area to be IDLH if they can visualize the shooter or determine a threat.

WARM ZONE: The area where a potential threat exists, but the threat is not direct or immediate. An example of this is an unknown location of suspects in a given area already cleared. Fire department resources may be requested to enter into warm zones, but should only be done with Force Protection, cover and concealment, or in accordance with your local fire department policies. These instances could be utilized for rapid extraction of multiple victims or officers down who need immediate assistance. Prior to entering into a warm zone a Risk

Page 602 versus Gain analysis should have been completed. Law enforcement could also refer to the warm zone as part of the inner perimeter.

COLD ZONE: The area where no significant danger or threat can be reasonably anticipated. This could be achieved by distance, geographic location or inaccessible areas from the incident. The cold zone is the location for staging of resources, ICP, treatment and transportation of patients. Could also be classified “Outer Perimeter” by law enforcement.

Concealment: Concealment is anything that hides you from suspect observation and can be natural or man- made. Concealment does not protect you from suspect(s) gunfire. Do not think that you are protected from gunfire just because you are concealed. Natural concealment includes such things as bushes, grass, trees, and shadows. If possible, natural concealment should not be disturbed.

Cover: Cover gives protection from bullets, fragments of exploding rounds, flame, nuclear effects, and biological and chemical agents. Natural cover includes such objects as logs, trees, stumps, ravines, and hollows. Manmade cover includes such things as vehicles, trenches, walls, rubble and craters. Build or locate (cover) such as shielding behind vehicles, walls and/or natural barriers.

Force Protection: Actions taken by law enforcement to prevent or mitigate hostile actions against personnel, resources, facilities, and critical infrastructure. These actions conserve the operational ability of fire and EMS resources so they can be applied as needed.

Improvised Explosive Device (IED): A device placed or fabricated in an improvised manner incorporating destructive, lethal, noxious, pyrotechnic, incendiary or chemicals designed to destroy, incapacitate, harass, or distract.

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE FOOTHILLS FIRE DEPARTMENT

Fire responder safety is one of our first and top priorities when responding to any calls for help in the County of Foothills; we have worked with our dispatch center (FRESC) to implement a flagged property program. This program is for all 9-1-1 calls that are generated at FRESC and an alert will be shown to the dispatcher, then the dispatcher will inform the fire responder.

The narrative portion of the alerts will follow this format:

Page 603

Code red reads – “code red” – caution” – Translated this means “hold back” until RCMP arrive on scene, then follow them on to location when safe to do so.

“Code red” will include, known drug houses, grow operations and past known threats to authorities, which include Fire or Police.

Code yellow reads – “code yellow” – caution” – proceed with caution on property but be on the lookout for immediate hazards.

“Code yellow” will include – a hazard might be aggressive dogs or large collection of debris on property.

This system is not new to our dispatch center and they were happy to help us out to make all responders feel a bit safer when responding. This flagging system does come with a caveat. If a caller calls in to FRESC and does not know what the current address is of the emergency then this will not alert the dispatch due to the incorrect address given.

(1) It is recognized that, due to the very unique 24 hour functions provided by the Foothills Fire Department (FFD), special consideration is required with regards to the release of information concerning flagged properties to ensure safety of Fire Service personnel.

(2) Therefore; the PS coordinator shall collect, for the FFD, a special flagging list that shall include the following fields: 911 Addressing, Roll Number, Legal Land Description, Flagged person’s name, Security threat Level, Standard/required Response.

(3) This special flagging list shall be kept up to date in the same manner as the Master Register.

(4) The FFD Fire Chief or Deputy Fire Chief may, at their discretion, release the information contained within their special flagging list to any member of the FFD (including, but not limited to; Captains, Senior Fire Fighters, Regular Members, and Administrative Support Staff), and assist the Regional Dispatch Centre as required to ensure the safety of personnel during response, rescue, and agency assist operations.

(5) In all instances where the FFD must respond to a flagged property during hours where Protective Services Officers are on shift; it will be considered to be the responsibility of the FFD Officer in Charge of the response to confirm the attendance of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (R.C.M.P.) Detachment and/or the closest Protective Services Officer with emergency response capability and advise the officer of the type and level of the active flag for the property subject property.

(6) Any response to a call for service by a Protective Services Officers at the request of FFD will be carried out in accordance with the appropriate provisions of this and other applicable standard operating procedures.

Page 604

(7) In all instances where the Foothills Fire Department must respond to a flagged property during hours where Protective Services Officers are not on shift, it will be considered to be the responsibility of the FFD Officer in Charge of the response to confirm with a Dispatcher that RCMP have been contacted to attend the property.

NOTE: This format will be subject to QA and QC every December with FRESC.

Reporting System

As any member of the emergency services become aware of, or the possibility of a Hostile or Violent property within their response area, the member shall report this property to the Fire Chief or designate immediately for further investigation.

Fire Chief ______

Page 605

County of Foothills: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0125 Emergency Responses Involving Livestock. Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. text. Date: Click here to enter a date. Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Scope

This SOG will apply to all responses relating to livestock.

Purpose

To effectively manage emergency responses that involves livestock.

Policy

Livestock handling guidelines in this instruction shall be observed by all responders.

Personnel The Chief officer shall;

• Respond to livestock incidents if available. • Ensure the SOG’s are current and the Industry Resource Persons Contact List is effective and meeting the needs of the Incident Commander. Under the direction of the Incident Commander the Regional Fire Chief shall;

• Handle animals only within the scope of knowledge and training.

• Comply with SOG’s.

Page 606 • Arrange and facilitate initial training of Fire Services Personnel in the responsible Livestock Handling.

• Maintains and amends these Standard Operating Guidelines.

• Keeps all parties involved aware of Standard Operating Guidelines including any changes, revisions, and amendments.

Complete the monthly Inventory Record and Equipment Maintenance Checklist

Training

The Chief Officer will;

• Attend Responsible Livestock Handling Training, if available. • Ensure that training will be arranged on an, as needed basis. • Facilitate Fire Services personnel in attending training when offered.

Safety Training

Safety during training is vitally important because this is where other than at an actual emergency; the potential for injuries or even death is greatest for a responder. During training scenarios, only the situations are simulated. Hazards presented by the training scenarios are real and are to be treated with the utmost seriousness.

Supervision

• All present shall be briefed on applicable safety precautions or procedures to be followed during the training session.

• All activities during training shall be under the direct supervision of the trainer who shall ensure that all safety precautions are observed.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Full personal protective equipment required for the type of training being conducted, shall be worn at all times.

Page 607

• Personnel handling fuel in whatever capacity shall wear full protective clothing, especially when pouring fuel.

• All instructions on the safe handling and dispensing of flammable liquids shall be observed.

• “NO SMOKING” on site shall be strictly enforced.

• Safety is vitally important. The potential for injuries are real and incidents are to be treated with the utmost seriousness.

Safety Officer

Reporting to the Incident Commander a Safety Officer must be appointed by the Incident Commander (I/C) for all livestock response events, and training.

The Safety Officer MUST NOT be assigned other duties inconsistent with safety responsibilities.

The Safety Officer HAS THE AUTHORITY, REGARDLESS OF RANK, to intervene and control any aspect of the operations when, in his/her judgment, a potential or real danger, accident, or unsafe condition exists.

Responsibilities of the Safety Officer include, but are not limited to:

• Prevention of unsafe acts

• Elimination of unsafe conditions

• The Safety Officer must provide for the safety of all personnel on the scene as well as spectators.

• All participants must be inspected by the Safety Officer to ensure the protective clothing is being worn prior to participation in a livestock response incident.

First Aid

• A First Aid kit shall be readily available. • Injuries shall be reported immediately to the Safety Officer.

Page 608

Equipment Safety

• The Chief Officer shall consider health and safety as primary concerns in the design, acquisition, operation, maintenance, inspection, and repair of all tools and equipment.

• Hearing conservation should be considered whenever acquiring new power tools or equipment.

• All livestock handling equipment and tools shall be cleaned and disinfected within 48 hours of responding to an incident using sanitary spray.

• Any equipment found to be defective or in unserviceable condition shall be removed from service – repaired, and/or replaced.

• The Chief Officer will replace any defective or unserviceable equipment.

Equipment Maintenance

• On completion of an incident, the Chief Officer shall ensure that equipment is returned to a serviceable condition, protective clothing is cleaned and consumables are re-stocked. Communications

Call Center Receiving Call (ie: 9-1-1)

• Call the following organizations for assistance with animal handling if required. Livestock Identification Services (LIS) to be requested by RCMP (or RCMP delegate) through RCMP dispatch.

• Trained animal handlers through the specific species contact list.

Media, Animal Activists and the Public

• To be addressed by RCMP or RCMP delegate with official standing such as the Fire Chief.

• All others are not to address media, etc. referring questions to RCMP or RCMP delegate. Communicate on scene information to people in charge, i.e. Law Enforcement, or Fire Department.

Scene Security

Page 609 • Scenes must be kept secure at all times.

• A perimeter fence should be set up if possible, to contain the entire scene from foot traffic. (Animals under stress can be unpredictable and are a danger to anyone in striking distance).

• Ensure that crowds stay well back and do not compromise rescue workers’ “Exit/Escape Route”.

Arrival at the Scene

• Approach quietly – NO LIGHTS OR SIRENS - if possible, Park in the designated area.

Extricating, containing and Evacuation of Animals

• Wear reflective vest/clothing as well as any required safety equipment.

• Do not begin extrication until a containment area has been established.

• Extricating, containing, and evacuation of animals are to be delegated by Incident Commander on scene to resource personnel on scene including mutual aid partners, and participating Fire Departments.

Rescue and Recovery

Rescue is to be done by trained individuals who have experience with livestock.

• Trapped animals should be rescued. • Loose animals should be contained.

The Incident Commander must be advised of requirements for euthanasia.

Triage

• One central triage area should be set up. An area to protect workers should also be penned off.

• Veterinarians may require assistance when delivering treatment, or with completing documentation such as recording, identification, and treatment records.

Transportation

Page 610

• The arranging of transportation of animals should be handled by the original shipper of the livestock. (Each Fire Service should compile a local list of Livestock Haulers and make it part of these SOGs)

Records and Notification

• A shipping/transportation record should be kept of all animals transported from the scene.

• Owners of animals should be contacted, if possible, to determine delivery destination.

Sites and Routes

• Evacuation sites and routes are to be determined on site - dependent on condition of animals, housing, shelter, containment, feed, and water available in the area.

Identification

• All attempts to identify and track livestock will be recorded.

• All tags, brands, microchips, tattoos, ear clips, and identifying marks are to be recorded, if possible.

• Head counts should match to the truckers manifest at the scene of a motor vehicle collision.

• Pictures should be taken for ID purposes and cataloged before disposal.

• Use manifests to confirm ownership and identify unknown animals.

Euthanasia

• Will only be performed by/or under the direct supervision of a peace officer as stated in the Animal Protection Act, with advice from a veterinarian, if present.

Disposal of Dead Stock

Disposal

All dead livestock must be identified before disposal. Disposal must be in accordance with laws and local

Page 611 bylaws and must follow criteria outlined in the Animal Health Act, Destruction and Disposal of Dead Animals Regulation.

• A dumpsite should be established for the dead livestock.

In the case of Foreign Animal Disease (i.e. foot and mouth, avian flu), the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is responsible. In large outbreaks they will likely require help from local authorities. If unsure about the implications to health, contact the Regional Health Authority or Alberta Environment for guidance.

Basic Livestock Handling Safety Tips

• Escaped cattle must never be chased.

• All persons should stay quiet while one designated person eases the animal to a designated area.

• Stay out of the blind spot behind a bovine. If he cannot see you, he is likely to kick you.

• Install a safety fence around the cattle area to prevent cattle from escaping where they may cause damage to property, people or themselves.

• To move an animal the point of balance is usually at the animal's shoulder and it is determined by the animal's wide angle vision. All species of livestock will move forward if the handler stands behind the point of balance. They will back up if the handler stands in front of the point of balance.

• Cattle, sheep and pigs will follow the leader, and handlers need to take advantage of this natural behavior to move animals easily.

• Cattle, pigs, and sheep will balk and may refuse to move through if they see distractions such as shadows.

• Cattle, pigs, and sheep have wide-angle vision and they can see behind themselves without turning their heads.

• Electric prods should be replaced as much as possible with alternative driving aids such as flags, plastic paddles, and a stick with plastic ribbons attached to it.

• It is important to reduce noise when handling livestock.

Page 612 • People including handlers should avoid making loud noises when moving animals. Whistling and whip cracking can cause animals to become excited.

• Calm cattle and pigs are easier to handle and move than excited animals. If animals become agitated or excited, allowing them to calm down for a few minutes will make them easier to move.

• If cattle become excited it takes 15 to 30 minutes for them to calm down.

Response to Motor Vehicle Collisions Extrication

A temporary containment facility must be located or created before animals are released from the trailer (e.g. paneled corral, nearby field, directly into another truck).

• Live animals must be removed from the trailer before it is righted or moved.

• To decide the safest and easiest way to extricate the animal first evaluate the trailer and the condition of the animal(s).

1. Position of trailer – on side, roof or upright, on right or left side 2. Position of animal – lying down, pinned or trapped, tied or loose

If the animal(s) cannot be removed through a door, the trailer must be examined to determine the best way to dismantle the trailer and remove the animal. The structural integrity of the trailer must not be jeopardized or the trailer may collapse on the animal and the rescue personnel.

1. Ascertain the design of the trailer. (e.g. Angle haul, dividers, etc.)

2. Determine what material the trailer is made of – most new trailers are a combination of fiberglass and/or aluminum with steel supports. Older trailers are usually all steel.

3. Decide if trailer needs stabilizing before dismantling.

4. Check to be sure the animal does not have any limbs trapped. The animal may need to be sedated before dismantling occurs – this needs to be done by a veterinarian. If no sedation is required the animal should have ear plugs in place and legs tied if necessary. (Horses only)

5. Do not tear trailers apart with tow trucks.

Page 613

6. Before cutting any metal parts make sure animals will not be injured by tools being used to make the cut.

Rescue

• To keep an injured or trapped horse (which is already lying down) from struggling, stand at the animals spine, place a blanket over its eyes leaving the nostrils exposed and press down lightly on the neck with your knee.

If the animal is in an enclosed space, no one should go in to hold the animal down until the space is opened and rescuers can do it safely.

• Before you begin a rescue – perform a risk assessment.

• Darting/Tranquilization should only be done by a trained veterinarian and only as a last option. There is a huge risk to the health of the animal and the safety of all personnel.

• One of the most effective sedatives for an animal is feed.

• If dragging is the only means of rescue, a sling should be used. Slide boards can also be used. They should be built strong enough to handle the weight of a large animal.

• Tarps can be used to drag large livestock.

For a backward drag:

• Slide the sling under the back end of the horse.

• The center mark of the sling is placed right above the middle of the horses back over the back bone.

• Both loop ends of the sling are passed between the hind legs (beware of being kicked) and attached to the pulling system a live animal should never be dragged by the neck, head, or horns. And should only be dragged by a limb if it is the only means of rescue.

Injured Animals

Page 614 If the animal cannot get up or be transported without causing further pain or suffering, by law it must be treated where it is or euthanized on site.

Evaluate and decide: a) No immediate treatment necessary b) Treat animal where it is c) Move animal to another location d) Humanely destroy the animal

• If the animal is injured but can move, work slowly and quietly around it. If the animal has a halter on it or you are able to safely put one on it, be very careful in leading with it. Walk slowly and talk calmly to the animal. If they are loose, walk calmly to the side of the animal and do not yell or chase the animal.

• A veterinary should be called when animals require treatment.

• If a vet has been called, large animals are best left where they are until he/she arrives.

• If the animal is able to walk, try to get it to a safe area until it can be attended to.

• If the animal cannot get up and needs to be euthanized, it will be necessary to destroy it on site.

• If the animal needs to be moved for treatment or euthanasia it should be moved the shortest distance possible.

Livestock First Aid

• Most human first aid techniques can be applied to animal. One of the key differences though is that the animal cannot communicate to you where they hurt, and words from you cannot comfort them.

• Injuries, distress, and pain can be difficult to detect in livestock. As prey animals, they are wired not to show pain as this makes them vulnerable to their predators. Lack of visible emotion does not mean the animal(s) is not in pain or suffering.

Identifying animals in pain and injuries:

Page 615 • Glazed eyes, staring, drooping head – little interest in surroundings • Reluctance to move, inability to stand or difficulty standing or moving • Lameness, swollen limbs or joints • Open, bleeding wound • Standing in rigid position • Grunting • Grinding of teeth • Excessive vocalization • Shivering • Blood coming from eyes, nose or any other body opening • Rapid or irregular shallow breathing (30 per minute) • Mouth breathing • Couching • Any limbs pointing in the wrong position • Bones protruding from the body • Loss of balance or lack of coordination, staggering, circling • Pressing head against objects • Stays away from other animals

Burns occur when animals have been exposed to fire or electric shock. Burns cause extreme pain. The greatest danger with burns is shock. After getting the animal to a safe zone and calming it, cold water should be gently poured over the burned area for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. When burns are extensive (Covering most of or the entire body) or severe (deep down to bones and muscles), the animal should be humanely destroyed as soon as possible. As with humans, do not apply oils, lotions or salves, and do not prick blisters breathe, cough, or touch the injured area. Horses need to be closely monitored as they have a delayed reaction to smoke inhalation.

Broken limbs, fractures and dislocations: The animal may not be able to use the limb, it may move awkwardly, limp severely, or the limb may be pointing in the wrong direction. With dislocations the injury may result in the loss of use of the limb, a swelling of the joint or the affected area will not move easily. In the case of an amputation, the animal should be euthanized.

Internal bleeding can result in severe shock or death. Signs of internal bleeding are listlessness, unconsciousness, very cold legs or a blue tinge to the pink skin inside the lips or tongue. Blood may be coming out the mouth, eyes, nose, or any other body opening.

Page 616

Large, open wound with extensive bleeding and chunks of flesh missing or bones showing.

Lying flat out is when an animal is lying flat on their side with their neck extended Paddling is when an animal is lying flat on their side and their legs appear to be “paddling”.

Lameness can range from a simple limp or slowed pace, to an inability to walk on their own. We can divide lameness into five categories:

Class 1 - Visibly lame, but can keep up with the group; no evidence of pain

Class 2 - Unable to keep up; some difficulty climbing ramps

Class 3 - Requires assistance to rise but can walk freely

Class 4 - Requires assistance to rise; reluctant to walk; halted movement, unable to navigate ramp

Class 5 - Unable to rise or remain standing

Class 1 can be loaded as normal. Classes 2 and 3 should be allowed extra time to load without prodding and loaded onto to the back of trailer so it does not have to travel as far into the trailer and will be able to unload off the trailer first and the shortest distance possible. Class 4 and 5 should not be reloaded for further transport.

Loss of Consciousness may occur from a skull fracture, a brain hemorrhage, suffocation, shock, or electrical shock. The animal will be laid out on its side and breathing but not aware of its surroundings.

Suffocation may result from the piling of animals. Do not attempt to revive those that do not recover on their own.

Barn Fires

• These fires, especially at night are not detected quickly, the response time is longer as the facility is usually located in the country and livestock structures usually burn quickly.

• Animals become quickly frightened and disoriented in a fire. They will not run out of the barn on their

Page 617 own. Rescuers need to use extreme caution and judgment when attempting to vacate a burning barn. You must never put your own life in danger for the animals.

• Livestock will run back into a burning barn. When removing animals from a barn they should be taken clear of the incident scene. Preferably to corrals or trailers where they can be locked up and kept out of harm’s way.

• Pigs are very hard to move out of a burning barn. They will run back into the burning building if not cleared from the scene. Pigs in confinement are especially afraid of light, which makes them difficult to move out of a barn into the sunlight or bright lights of a truck. Pig barn fires will usually tally up a high loss of life.

Alternate Fire Scenarios

• In the case of brush fires the animals should be herded calmly to the side of the fire path. Gates should be opened or fences should be cut, if necessary.

• Make sure the roads are closed before moving animals onto or across them.

• Truck and trailer units will also catch on fire. If possible – cut hole(s) in the trailer to let animals out before fire gets to the trailer.

• See First Aid section for treatment of burns.

Support Contact Lists

1. Livestock Identification Services

Calgary Head Office 1-866-509-2088 (403) 509-2098 (Toll Free) (403) 509-2088

Garry Geshaw (stray horses/livestock) Southern Alberta 403-901-5075

RCMP Livestock Investigators Red Deer South: Cpl. Christian Reister (403) 699-2617 (403) 699-2641 Red Deer North: Cpl. Dave Heaslip (780) 289-5510 (780) 412-5561

Page 618

Provincial Field Supervisors Phone Fax Red Deer North: Butch Harrish (403) 783-0421 (403) 783-3818 Red Deer South: Gary Guichon (403) 934-9943 (403) 934-9843

Field Offices Phone Fax Brooks - Bow Slope Shipping Assc. (403) 501-5111 - Brooks - Lakeside Packers (403) 793-8985 (403) 793-8987 Clyde - Nilsson Bros. Inc. (780) 348-5539 (780) 348-2361 Drayton Valley (780) 542-3081 (780) 542-2395 Fort MacLeod (403) 553-2844 (403) 553-2858 (780) 831-1818 (780) 831-1815 High River - Cargill Foods (403) 652-4688 (403) 652-3355 Ext. 331 High River - Highwood Auction (403) 652-3980 (403) 652-4644 Innisfail (403) 227-1422 (403) 227-1438 (403) 317-7000 (403) 317-7004 Lethbridge - Balog (403) 317-7003 - Lethbridge - Perlich Bros. (403) 317-7005 - (403) 504-3094 (403) 580-3279 Olds (403) 556-2885 (403) 556-2885 Ponoka (403) 783-6202 (403) 783-3818 Provost (780) 753-6361 (780) 753-6341 Red Deer - Burnt Lake (403) 309-4716 (403) 309-4718 Rimbey (780) 843-5586 Stettler (403) 742-4885 (403) 742-8151 Strathmore - Calgary Stockyards (403) 934-2544 (403) 934-2548 Tofield - Beaver Hill (780) 662-0231 (780) 662-0239 Westlock - Triple J (780) 349-5503 (780) 349-2545 Vermilion (780) 853-4186 (780) 853-4192 Veteran (403) 575-2529 (403) 575-2627 (780) 336-3421 (780) 336-3453

2. Alberta Auction Markets:

Page 619 Auction Markets Balog Auction Mart (403) 320-1980 (403) 320-2660 Beaver Hill Auction Services (780) 662-9384 (780) 662-3615 Bonnyville (Western Pride Auction) (780) 826-2233 (780) 826-2243 Bow Slope Shipping Assc. (403) 362-5521 (403) 362-5541 Burnt Lake Livestock (403) 347-6100 (403) 340-3560 Calgary Stockyards - Strathmore (403) 934-3344 (403) 934-4383 Calgary Stockyards - Calgary (403) 234-7429 (403) 266-3368 Clyde - Nilsson Bros. (780) 348-5893 (780) 348-5705 Drayton Valley - Sekura Auctions (780) 542-4337 (780) 542-3444 Dryland Trading Company (403) 575-3772 (403) 575-3935 Foothills Livestock Auction VJV (403) 549-2120 (403) 549-2253 Fort MacLeod Auction (SALE) (403) 553-3315 (403) 553-4264 Grande Prairie (780) 532-3949 (780) 532-2211 Highwood Livestock Auction (SALE) (403) 652-3343 (403) 652-3446 Innisfail (403) 227-3166 (403) 227-2202 Medicine Hat Feeding Co (403) 526-3129 (403) 528-9355 Olds Auction Mart (403) 556-3655 (403) 556-2688 Perlich Bros. (403) 329-3101 (403) 327-2288 Picture Butte Auction (403) 732-4400 (403) 732-4405 Ponoka - Vold Jones Vold (403) 783-5561 (403) 783-4120 Provost Livestock Exchange (780) 753-2369 (780) 753-2493 Rimbey Auction Mart (403) 843-2439 (403) 843-3845 Sekura Auctions Ltd (780) 542-4337 (780) 542-3444 Stettler Auction Mart (403) 742-2368 (403) 742-8151 Thorsby Auction Mart (780) 789-3915 (780) 789-3195 Triple J Livestock Auction Mart (780) 349-3153 (780) 349-5466 Vermilion - Nilsson Bros. (780) 853-5372 (780) 853-2521 Viking Auction Market (780) 336-2209 (780) 336-2278 Willowview Auctions Ltd (780) 354-2423 (780) 354-2420

3. Alberta Hutterite Colonies:

http://www.cedrontech.com/hutterite.aspx

Page 620 4. Dead Stock Disposal

West Coast Reduction offers year round pickup and disposal service for dead livestock.

Service Area

Central Alberta Alberta Processing Co. A Division of West Coast Reduction Ltd. 7030 Ogden Dale Place SE Calgary, Alberta T2C 2A3

Phone: 403.279.4441

Northern Alberta Northern Alberta Processing Co. A Division of West Coast Reduction Ltd. 1930 121st Avenue NE , Alberta T6S 1B1

Phone: 780.472.6750

Southern Alberta Southern Alberta Processing Co. A Division of West Coast Reduction Ltd. End of 28th Street North Lethbridge, Alberta

Phone: 403.328.1336

Other Agencies

1. Alberta SPCA–1.800.455.9003 2. Alberta Environment–1.800.222.6514 3. Canadian Food Inspection Agency(CFIA)–1.800.442.2342 4. Animal Welfare Veterinary Response Team (AWVRT) Contact: Through the ALERT Line 1.800.506.2273

Page 621 Resource Person Role

GENERAL FUNCTION:

Under the direction of the Incident Commander or other appropriate staff, the resource person is responsible for assessing the livestock species welfare and their needs during a crisis. This assessment will address the animal concerns, offer advice as a species specific resource or recommend a resource person with more or different experience and training or geographically closer to the incident scene.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Communicate with the Incident Commander or delegate when called upon for the purpose of discussing specific animal species needs and handling techniques.

Provides information based on individual incident needs or requests.

Attends incident debriefings and in-service training when requested. Maintains contact with area Program Coordinator. Keeps incident information - Confidential. Does not provide statements or comments to media or others (Industry Representatives) unless approved by the Incident Commander.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Moderate supervision.

Works autonomously under incident command protocol with Incident Commander or delegate available to answer questions, and offer advice as necessary.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS: Knowledge and Abilities:

Knowledge of specific species as it relates to handling and removal from a crisis situation; interested in working with incident commander. Ability to communicate effectively; feels comfortable in various environments. Must have telephone accessibility, and transportation.

Industry Resource Persons - Contact List

The Industry Resource Persons Contact List must be reviewed annually by both INDUSTRY and the Regional Fire Chief to ensure appropriate persons are available. These contact persons may not be

Page 622 available during times when incidents occur at night. Each Fire Service should develop a contact list that works for them.

Alberta Beef, KARIN SCHMID [email protected]

Alberta Beef Producers 320, 6715 - 8th Street N.E. Calgary, Alberta Canada T2E 7H7

Telephone (403) 275-4400 Fax (403) 274-0007

Alberta Auction Markets Association Ms. Lorraine Klepper.E-mail: ab_auct@ telus.

Alberta Auction Markets Association RR 1 Lcd 1 Red Deer, AB T4N 5E1 Phone: 403-340-2460

Alberta Chicken Producers Karen Kirkwood [email protected],ca

Executive Director, Karen Kirkwood, or a staff member, please call(780) 488-2125, or toll-free 1-877-822- 4425 during regular office hours. Phone: (780) 488-2125, or toll-free 1-877-822-4425. A message recording system is in place in the event lines are busy or if you call outside of the regular scheduled office hours.

Animal Care is a Strategic Priority of the Alberta Chicken Producers and the Canadian chicken industry. The Canadian chicken industry works closely with its partners to ensure the stringent regulations related to the care and handling of our birds are met and followed. - As part of this dedication, Alberta Chicken Producers implemented an Animal Care Program designed to demonstrate and maintain the high level and standard of the Canadian chicken industry's on-farm animal care.

Alberta Egg Producers Susan Gal [email protected]

#101, 90 Freeport Boulevard N.E., Calgary, AB, T3J 5J9 Calgary, Alberta, Canada T3J 5J9

Page 623 TEL: Toll Free: 1-877-302-2344 (toll-free) or Calgary and Area: (403) 250-1197

Alberta Hatching Egg Producers Nancy Robinson [email protected]

#301, 8925 – 51 Avenue. Edmonton, AB T6E 5J3

Tel: 780-434-8414 Fax: 780-434-9552

Alberta Equestrian Federation Sonia [email protected]

Bill DesBarres - Breeds & Industry [email protected] 403-529-7237

Suite 100, 251 Midpark Blvd SE Calgary, Alberta T2X 1S Phone: 403-253-4411 Toll Free: 1-877-463-6233 Fax: 403-252-5260

Alberta Lamb Producers Margaret Cook [email protected]

Toll-free Rite (310-0000) (403) 948-8533 Fax: (403) 912-1455 Mailing Address: Agriculture Centre 97 East Lake Ramp NE Airdrie, AB, T4A 0C3 [email protected] [email protected]

Bill Gibson Address: RR # 1, Tees, AB T0C 2N0Phone: 403 788 2883E-mail: [email protected]

Alberta Milk Mike [email protected]

Alberta Milk 1303 - 91 Street SW Edmonton, AB T6X 1H1 (780) 453-5942 1-877-361-1231 (toll free in Alberta) Fax (780) 455-2196

Alberta Pork Darcy Fitzgerald [email protected]

Page 624 4828 89 Street, Edmonton, AB T6E 5K1 Phone: (780) 474-8288 Fax: (780) 479-5128 E-mail: [email protected] Producer Direct Line: 1-877-247-PORK (7675)

Alberta Turkey Producers Cara Dairy, Executive Director, extension 501 / [email protected]

Alberta Veterinary Medical Association Midge [email protected]

Phone: 780-489-5007, Toll-Free: 1-800-404-2862 Fax: 780-484-8311

Alberta Elk Commission Diana O’Hara [email protected]

Tel: 780-980-7582 Fax: 780-980-7591 e-mail: [email protected] 48 Campbell Road, Leduc, AB

Bison Producers of Alberta Linda [email protected]

501 - 11 Avenue Nisku, Alberta T9E 7N5 Canada Email: [email protected]

Phone:780-955-1995 Fax:780-955-1990

ANIMAL MOVEMENT RECORD

Page 625

Species:

Contact Person:

Mailing Address:

Phone Number:______

Physical Location Animals Moved to:

Phone Number:

Premise ID Number:

Brand or Identifiers:

Number of Animals Moved:

Description of Animals:

Comments:

Page 626 INCIDENT REPORT

DATE COMPLETED:

EQUIPMENT/TRAILER LOCATION (Dispatched From):

DATE AND TIME OF CALL TO DISPATCH:

SOURCE OF CALL:

LAND LOCATION OF INCIDENT:

SPECIES AND QUANTITY OF LIVESTOCK:

INDUSTRY RESOURCE PERSON(S) CONTACTED:

OTHER EXPERTS CALLED TO SITE:

ATTACH COPY OF MANIFEST WITH ALL NAMES AND ADDRESSES:

NUMBER OF ANIMALS TREATED:

NUMBER OF ANIMALS EUTHENIZED AND BY WHOM:

ATTACH COPY OF ANIMAL MOVEMENT RECORD:

LIST AND SOURCE OF PERSONNEL AND/OR SERVICES WORKING AT THE INCIDENT SITE:

Page 627 LIST OF OTHER PERSONS AND/OR SERVICES, TOW COMPANY(S), AMBULANCES, LIVESTOCK TRANSPORTERS, LIS, RCMP ETC:

EQUIPMENT TO BE REPAIRED OR REPLACED:

CRITICAL CONSTRUCTIVE COMMENTS BY INCIDENT

COMMANDER:

DATE AND TIME INCIDENT SCENE VACATED:

Fire Chief ______

Page 628 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: Water / Ice rescue SOP# 0126 Location: Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

SCOPE

This procedure applies to all personnel responsible for performing technical search, rescue and recovery emergency response and operations that, under the support of The Foothills Fire Department, perform any water rescue or ice rescue function.

PURPOSE

The purpose of these standards is to establish guidelines for the conducting of safe and effective water rescue or ice rescue operations in such a manner as to ensure that all such operations and planning done under the support of The Foothills Fire Department is conducted so as to maximize both the protection of all personnel from accidental injury and/or death and maximize the efficiency of such operations. Further, to also set forth standards for training, initial certification and annual recertification of water rescue and an ice rescue team crew members.

These standards are to be used only as a set of guidelines within the decision making process, since circumstances and conditions may vary widely from one operation to another. No written standards can give advice for all situations, and no standards can replace competent instruction under the supervision of competent instructors. Furthermore, no standards can replace experience during operational circumstances, or practice under controlled conditions.

Individuals engaging in operations, particularly under the adverse conditions present during many rescues, recoveries, or other similar circumstances, must realize that the activity they are undertaking has inherent dangers. Each individual must be presumed to be voluntarily participating in the activity which he/she is undertaking and thus must assume the risk that goes with it. Otherwise that individual is expected to make the Incident Commander aware of the fact that he/she does not wish to participate.

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TACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Operational Flow of Actions:

Phase I - Arrive on scene. Take command. Size up.

Secure responsible party or witness.

The first arriving unit / command should secure a witness and/or the reporting party as soon as possible after arriving on scene. This will help in identifying and locating the problem, the victim(s), etc.

Assess the need for additional resources.

The first arriving unit / command should immediately begin assessing the need for additional resources. If the need for additional resources is evident, a request should be made to put in an early call for them. If later, it is determined that they are not necessary, Command can either recall the responding resources or return those units back to service from staging.

Assess the hazards.

The first arriving unit / command should conduct an immediate and independent assessment of the hazards present. Command may want to assign an individual as the Safety Sector. Safety will be responsible for identifying the hazards present and to have them secured if practicable. If it is not possible to secure hazards, Safety will notify the IC of the hazards so that those hazards can be properly factored into the action plan. Some hazards associated with water rescue or ice rescue operations would be: volume, velocity, temperature of water and air, floating debris, unusual drop-offs, hydraulic effects, mud, strainers, and bystanders attempting rescue, dams, and depth of water or ice.

Decide upon "Rescue" or "Recovery" mode:

Based upon the conditions present and the hazards posed to rescuers, Command, will need to make the decision to operate either in a rescue or recovery mode. If Command determines that the operation will be run in the rescue mode, rescue operations should begin quickly, but in a planned and organized manner unless an extreme operational concern, or a life safety issue, exists to the point where the IC refuses to commit personnel and resources to the rescue operation. The decision of the IC shall be final at that point.

Decide upon an action plan:

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IC should establish an action plan as soon as possible. The step-by-step plan should be verbally communicated to all personnel who will be actively involved in the rescue operation. The plan should be reviewed constantly and be modified, or abandoned, as the situation dictates. Any change in the plan needs to be immediately communicated to all personnel who are operationally involved.

Phase II - Pre-Rescue Operations

Make the general area safe:

IC should begin to ensure that the general area is made safe. On water rescue or ice rescue operations this would include securing the area and not allowing civilian personnel to enter the water or upon the ice to attempt any rescue. In swift-water rescue incidents IC should assign a member ‘upstream’ (if warranted) to spot floating debris and notify operational personnel of an approaching hazard. IC should also assign personnel ‘downstream’ (with PFD’s and throw bags) at all times when a water rescue operation is taking place. IC may also want to request a helicopter the task of aerial recon for spotting hazards.

Make the rescue area safe:

IC should ensure that the immediate rescue area is ‘made safe’. He/she may want to assign a member to “Manpower’ to account for all personnel working within the rescue area. Personnel operationally working in the rescue area (water / ice edge to ten feet inland) shall at the least wear minimum personal protective equipment (PPE), including an approved personal flotation device (PFD), surface suit and water rescue helmet (if working with swift water conditions), and/or a proper PFD / exposure suit combination (if working on the ice) at all times when engaging in water rescue or ice rescue operations. It should also be made clear to Command that any non- personnel operating at the scene in violation of the above represent a hazard to the over-all operation, and as such need to be brought into complacence or removed from the immediate scene.

Pre-rescue chain-of-command:

Depending upon the action plan established, the number of properly-trained and equipped teams or organizations at the scene, or a whole host of other applicable factors, Command may wish to establish an ‘Operations Sector’. Operations will be responsible for gathering all equipment and personnel necessary to operate according to the action plan. Operations will assign rescue personnel to conduct the actual rescue, and support personnel to support the rescuers, during the actual rescue phase. Operations should at all times have an alternative action plan established should a problem be encountered with deployment of the primary plan. That plan should be communicated to all personnel operating in the rescue area as required and/or appropriate. If IC is not in agreement with the

Page 631 individual named to staff ‘Operations’ (based upon his/her training and ability level or past performance), or for any other compelling reason is not willing to commit the Unit to the control of that individual, then Command should be immediately notified that Foothills Fire has chosen to ‘opt out’ of the operation and will remain available for ‘stand by’ or be returned to Station.

Phase III - Rescue Operations

After pre-rescue operations are complete, the IC (or Operations, if so designated) shall implement the action plan for the retrieval / removal of the victim(s). Water rescue and ice rescue operations should normally be conducted from low risk to high risk, in order. Water rescues and ice rescues should always be conducted with the least amount of risk to the rescuer(s) necessary in order to effectively rescue the victim(s). IC shall, on an on-going basis, discuss with Command the risk/benefit of the operation. Downstream personnel should always be assigned and in place, with PFD’s and throw bags, and, if warranted, an opposite water-side/bank-side sector for incidents involving swift-water rescue. The safety of the rescuer(s) demands that. The order of water rescue and ice rescue from low risk to high risk will be:

TALK - the victim into self-rescue. If possible, the victim should be talked into swimming to shore or assisting the rescuers with his/her own rescue. If a victim is stranded in the middle of a flash flood, swift moving water is hypothermic or in a panicked state, etc. this action will not be prudent to take.

REACH - If possible, the rescuer should extend his/her hand or some other object, such as a pike pole, ladder, inflated fire hose or a tree branch, to the victim in an attempt to aid in removing the victim from the water or off of the ice.

THROW - If the victim is too far out in the water or the ice to reach, rescuer(s) should attempt to throw the victim a throw bag or some piece of positive flotation (i.e., PFD, rescue ring, spare tire). Downstream personnel should always be in position during the actual water rescue operation. If the victim is able to grab the throw bag, the rescuer can pendulum-belay or haul the victim to the nearest bank for a water rescue. Care should be taken to assure the victim will be belayed to a safe downstream position. Due to hypothermia concerns this method is usually not utilized by this Unit for ice rescues.

ROW - If it is determined that a boat based operation needs to be run, then IC shall give the order for all personnel to set up for a boat-based rescue. Again, this method is normally only employed by this Unit for water rescues and not for ice rescues.

GO - If it is not feasible or possible to ROW (conduct a boat- based operation) to extract the victim, and all other prior-listed options have either been exhausted or deemed not workable, ONLY THEN should IC consider putting a rescuer(s) in the water or on the ice to reach the victim. This is a very high risk operation, so only rescuers with the proper training and equipment should be allowed to enter the water or venture out upon the ice. Prior to the rescuer(s) actually proceeding into the water or

Page 632 venturing upon the ice, he/she shall discuss the action plan, including specific tasks and objectives, hazards and alternate plans with IC. The rescuer(s) shall never be attached to a life line (tied off) without the benefit of a quick-release mechanism or other method that would allow the rescuer(s) to quickly and safely detach themselves from the shore or boat-based life line in order to self-rescue. The rescuer also should take PPE of at least a PFD to the victim. Unit members shall not do a breath-hold surface dive in an attempt to locate a victim beneath the surface of the water or ice when operating in a rescue mode and not being equipped with an approved breathing-assist system, nor shall they remove their own PFD for any reason other than to extricate themselves from a life-threatening entrapment while in the water or upon the ice.

HELICOPTER - At times the use of a helicopter is either the most practicable or only method of reaching the victim(s). Helicopter operations over water are considered high risk operations and are undertaken by only a select few helicopters available to us. Command should consult with the Unit OIC to determine the risk/benefit of the use of a helicopter to affect the rescue. If the pilot of a service says he/she can do the operation, the pilot will then have the final say on how the helicopter will be used.

Phase IV. - Assessing the Victim

Once the rescuer(s) have reached the victim(s), they should do an immediate assessment of the victim’s state; quick assessments of the victim’s ABC’s and determine the exact method of entrapment or reason for distress. If the victim is conscious, the rescuer should determine to what degree the victim can assist in his/her own rescue. If the victim is unconscious, the rescue must be effected quickly, yet safely. If upon reaching the PLS the victim(s) is no longer on the surface of the water or ice the rescuer(s) shall use all means available to him/her (short of surface-diving or removing their PFD) to locate the victim and bring him/her to the surface. At the same time the Unit OIC shall direct other Team members to begin setting up for a dive-rescue operation utilizing SCUBA. After a dive-rescue operation commences, depending upon the length of submersion time, the Unit OIC, in concert with Command, will then decide upon changing from a dive-rescue operation to strictly a recovery operation.

Phase V. – Treatment

As soon as the victim is brought to safety, an immediate assessment should be conducted by ALS or BLS personnel. Treatment shall then be administered as per local protocol. If necessary, the victim shall be transported to the appropriate facility.

Phase IV - Termination

The Unit OIC, after consulting with Command, should begin termination as soon as possible after the victim has been removed from the water or off of the ice. This shall include securing all the equipment used for the rescue and conducting personnel accountability. This may also include the gathering of

Page 633 witness statement, photo's, victim's personal affects, or the like for our records, reports, or upon a request from Command or Law Enforcement. Unit members should not become part of a towing operation to remove vehicles from the water or any salvage operation to remove a boat or other craft, unless so directed by the Unit OIC. Under direction of the OIC, or if requested by Command, the Unit may stand by for rescue purposes only if a tow truck driver insists on retrieving a vehicle. The Unit OIC should also consider activating the C.I.S.D. for extraordinary or extended operations, or if requested by Unit members.

Rehabilitation - Personnel involved in the rescue operation may require medical assessment, nutrition, hydration, and/or environmental temperature control. Early consideration should be given to the establishment of a rehab area, especially at protracted incidents or incidents conducted in inclement conditions.

Phase V - Post Termination

Conduct Personnel accountability and Equipment accountability. If there has been a fatality involved, recommend that Command consider leaving equipment in place for investigative purposes. Re-stock all vehicles and boats. Conduct debriefing. Return to service.

Additional considerations when conducting water rescue / ice rescue operations: HEAT. Consider rotation of crews. COLD. Consider the affects of hypothermia on the victim and rescuers. RAIN/SNOW. Consider the effects of rain or snow on the hazard profile. TIME OF DAY. Sufficient lighting for operations extending into night? Consider family and friends; keep them informed, away from the scene. Consider news media coverage; assign a P.I.O.

Decontamination

All flood waters should be considered contaminated to some degree from sewage, hazardous material, and other products not commonly carried in non-sanitary waterways. Personnel working in flood waters should monitor themselves for rashes, irritations, cuts, or scrapes and report any findings to their supervisor for forwarding to the Department Safety Officer. In addition, the following decontamination should be completed as soon as possible following exposure:

1. After exiting the water, hands and face are to be washed with water and anti-bacterial soap (Vionex).

Page 634 Upon return to station, personnel shall shower using anti-bacterial soap. Towels and contaminated personal clothing are to be laundered.

2. All exposed clothing shall be washed in a bleach solution of 1:100. This concentration is adequate to inactivate organophosphates (pesticides) and potentially infectious agents.

II. WATER RESCUE CREW STANDARDS

A. The crew member will demonstrate a working knowledge of ropes and rigging, to include as a minimum:

1. Safety lines (static and moveable) 2. Tethers a. Floating b. Sinking 3. Line system components — use, storage, care of a. Carabiners (locking) b. Prussic loops c. Pulleys d. Webbing e. Ropes (static kernmantle) f. Line guns 4. Knots a. Figure of 8 b. Water and fisherman’s knots 5. Selecting anchor points a. Existing (trees, poles, etc.) 6. Throw bags 7. Inflatable fire hose device a. Moving water/dam rescues b. Ice rescues 8. Exposure suits and surface suits

B. The crew member will demonstrate a working knowledge of self rescue techniques and equipment, to include:

1. Personal flotation devices 2. How to float and swim in a PFD 3. Changing directions (ferrying, eddys) 4. Avoiding strainers

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C. The crew member will demonstrate river sense, to include identifying:

1. Eddys and Eddy lines 2. Upstream and Downstream V 3. Holes 4. Pillows 5. Laminar flow 6. Helical flow 7. Strainers 8. Low head dams/hydraulics

BASIC SAFETY REGULATIONS

PAY ATTENTION KEEP A SHARP LOOKOUT

DO NOT OVERLOAD THE RESCUE BOAT (1 operator and 2 rescue swimmers)

KNOW THE WEIGHT LIMITATIONS

KNOW YOUR SPEED LIMITATIONS

DO NOT EXCEED YOUR COMFORT RANGE KNOW THE LEGAL SPEED LIMITS

IF UNSURE, MAINTAIN 5 MPH

Fire Chief______

Page 636 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0127 Radio Communication Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier/ Scott Young Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 8/6/2015 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE:

Proper radio communication is necessary to ensure accurate dispatch and effective coordination of any emergency scene to which the Foothills Fire Department has been called. A well-designed and operated radio system is also essential to insure the safety of all personnel operating at the scene of a fire or any other emergency. This guideline has been established to standardize radio communications and shall be utilized during any Foothills Fire Department operation. All Foothills Fire Department personnel shall follow this guideline to effect consistent and efficient communications.

SCOPE:

For effective and professional communications during any operation, it is important for all personnel to develop a standardized manner in how we communicate. It is of equal importance that all personnel are proficient in the use of the radio system which we rely on for communications in the field.

PROCEDURE:

Dispatch and General Communications

The Foothills Fire Department will be dispatched by FRESC Dispatch, which is known as “Dispatch” / “Fire Dispatch” is not known as “Control”. Under no circumstances is any member to answer an alarm unless assigned to do so. Only apparatus that has been dispatched and the Officers will sign on the air announcing their response.

Fire department radios will be used only for official department business. All radio communications should be calm, clear, concise and plain English. All members will use common language and terminology when making a transmission, and will insure that the air is clear of other radio traffic before keying the microphone.

Foothills Fire Department Communication is a basis for the apparatus to announce when they are responding,

Page 637 when they have arrived on scene, and when they have returned to service (indicating availability to handle another call).

Effective Radio Communication Etiquette:

• Radio transmissions should be clear, brief and concise. • Speak directly into the microphone. Microphone should be one to two inches from the mouth. • Speak distinctly in order to be accurately understood. Speak in a calm and clear manner. • Speak plain English • Indecent, obscene, or profane language is prohibited.

Be patient and courteous on the radio with all personnel. Also, be cognisant that other personnel may be talking with Dispatch simultaneously. Impatient and rude conduct on the Radio will not be tolerated and could lead to disciplinary action.

Acceptable Terminology and Phrases:

All fire department personnel shall use the Blue Card Command system terms and utilize the proper terminology to address other personnel. • Personnel will be addressed by their position and function e.g.: Engine 9 Officer/ Engine 9 Nozzle/ Tender 9 Operator. • Personnel will not be addressed by names or regimental numbers otherwise it leads to confusion on larger incidents.

All fire department personnel shall use the Blue Card Command system terms or phrases to communicate their status • Engine 9 responding (hot / cold) to 10 Hillside Rd. • Engine 9 on scene 10 Hillside Rd etc. etc. • Engine 9 RTS or clear and indicate status, on air, in service, etc.

To acknowledge the receipt of a transmission: Roger, Copy or message received and repeat message if necessary.

Simultaneous Incidents and Radio Transmissions:

The dispatcher on duty shall determine the order of priority on simultaneous transmissions.

Sensitive Radio Communications:

All members should be aware that all messages transmitted over the radio system are not private and often monitored by the public. Thought and discretion should be used when transmitting messages containing

Page 638 sensitive information. This information includes but is not limited to:

• Codes for gates. Alarm systems. • Occupancy Status (i.e. away for vacation). • Personal information about department members, patients or members of the public.

Incident Command:

The primary responsibility for running an incident is upon the Incident Commander (IC) as per the Incident Command System (ICS). Dispatch is available to the IC to assist in making contacts and acquiring resources at the request of the IC and as call volume permits.

Any use for additional fire channels should be communicated to Dispatch. The use of the Mutual Aid Tactical Frequencies in the direct mode is not under the control of Dispatch and is at the discretion of the IC.

Responding to an Incident: While units are en route to an incident, personnel are responsible for monitoring the call progress at all times on the assigned channel. When the initial progress report and other information are transmitted, the units responding should acknowledge receipt of the message. If another unit responding to the same incident does not acknowledge a message, it should be considered that the message was not received and should be retransmitted to the unit.

If you are co-responding into another district or contract area you will change your channel to the Fire Departments Contract area you are entering.

Arriving on Scene: When the first unit arrives, they shall issue an initial size up utilizing the Blue Card Command system protocols with at least the following information included: arrival at the scene, any change in reported location, and the identity of the person in command, the obvious conditions (nothing showing, fully involved, etc.), response recommendation, and any instructions for other incoming units.

Size-Up The first arriving officer (or apparatus driver in the absence of an officer who thus assumes Incident Command) will be responsible for radioing an initial size-up utilizing the Blue Card Command System.

The initial size up should be made by the first arriving IC only. It is disruptive for additional incoming units to continuously repeat the same information. The exception to this rule would be on a large structure when apparatus responding from a different direction identifies a condition that may not have been observed by the first arriving unit.

Incident Commanders must take the time necessary to conduct a proper size-up of the situation so that the

Page 639 information relayed to dispatch is accurate, organized and meaningful.

Have personnel move to Operations channel or Simplex Channel. Officer in command will make this determination.

Clearing the Scene: All units clearing an incident scene are to transmit such to Dispatch on the assigned channel.

Radio Updates It is good practice for the IC to periodically update conditions so that dispatch can anticipate additional activity and so that all crews on the fire ground have a more complete, overall “picture” of the operation.

Emergency Communications On the fire ground, every crew should be supervised by a company officer equipped with a two-way portable radio. In the absence of a line officer, the senior member of the crew will be in charge and must secure a portable radio from the apparatus. At a minimum, every crew member should have at least one fully functional portable radio with them at all times.

To prevent important communications from being missed or misinterpreted, the following emergency terms will be used exclusively for their intended purpose:

Mayday The term “Mayday” will be used only to report a firefighter(s) in serious trouble. This would include a firefighter that is trapped, lost, seriously injured, or otherwise in need of immediate rescue. Any firefighter in need of assistance (or others calling on their behalf) shall declare a Mayday, clearly identify their unit number, and then accurately report the location, nature and scope of the emergency situation. They should also simultaneously activate the emergency button on their PASS alarm if it is not already sounding.

Once a Mayday is declared, all other radio traffic will cease. Units will clear the air of all radio traffic so that the IC can effectively communicate with both the firefighter(s) in distress and the Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) without interference. The IC will initiate all communications, and all other fire crews will not use the radio unless there is an equally emergent communication or when directly called by the IC.

Emergency Traffic The term “Emergency Traffic” will be used to indicate that an important, high priority communication will be made. Only a Mayday broadcast will supersede this communication in importance. Upon hearing the term “Emergency Traffic”, all routine radio communication will cease and radio silence will be observed until the entire “Emergency Traffic” message has been transmitted and the purpose of that message has effectively reached the intended recipients.

Page 640 MOBILE RADIOS: Members with mobile radios are responsible for proper operation of their radios and the quality of the information transmitted. Basic radio operations are as follows:

• The dispatch of an incident will be broadcasted on the their stations dispatch channel • Apparatus personnel are responsible for monitoring their station fire dispatch for incidents when not currently assigned to one. • All fire apparatus shall utilize their station dispatch channel for routine messages when not assigned to an incident or fire channel. • Talk quick clear, concise and plain English

Mobile Radio Headsets: At a minimum, personnel on fire apparatus that are equipped with radio headsets, personnel must utilize radio headsets at all times while traveling in apparatus. Besides helping with the intelligibility of received signals, the headsets are also an important part of a hearing conservation program.

Portable Radio Scanning Feature: AFRRCS radios have a scan feature. Individual radios must be set up and channels selected to the scan list. To turn on the scan feature you must enable it through the on screen display choices.

Sending an Emergency Alarm: Where possible, the MAYDAY procedure should be utilized first to indicate a firefighter in trouble. If a MAYDAY draws no response from the Incident Commander, the emergency alarm radio feature should be used.

Identify yourself and contact the IC or Dispatch and transmit your emergency message. All communication with the IC or Dispatch while in emergency mode will be on the assigned incident channel.

Please see below, schedule “A” for “Foothills Fire Department Volunteer Stations Radio Protocols”.

Fire Chief______

SCHEDULE A: Foothills Fire Department Volunteer Stations Radio Protocols

Page 641 I. Pager Tones: Pager Tones for either a test or an incident will only come through the Station Page channel. It will not be broadcast to the Dispatch or Ops channels (e.g.: unless an AFRRCS radio is set to Priddis Page, users will not hear the Priddis tones). While on Page channel, personnel will also hear every other Station’s tones. Therefore, to only hear a specific Station tone, the VMut' button needs to be activated to filter out all the other Station tones. II. Acknowledging Station Tones: Only qualified, proficient and trained personnel are authorised to answer a Station Page. By following this protocol, it ensures that an experienced/ qualified member is available to take command of an apparatus, crew or incident. This protocol also ensures a secondary Page to another Station is sent immediately, in the event that no experienced/ qualified members are available. In addition, it eliminates the situation whereby only junior members respond to the Station, only to find out on arrival that no experienced members are available to take command. a. When dispatched for an incident, answer the tones on the Page Channel. e.g.: "Dispatch, Spruce Meadows Fire copies and making our way to the Hall." The same applies for the pager test. e.g.: "Dispatch, Spruce Meadows Fire copies loud & clear.") ** Do Not answer tones on Dispatch or Ops ** III. Responding to the Station: After the tones have been answered, all responding members should immediately switch to their Dispatch channel (unless you are told otherwise). This will allow all responding members to hear crucial updates from Dispatch a. i.e.: "Priddis Fire please be advised that Heritage Pointe Fire is also on route" or "Station 6 pleased be advised that EMS is on-scene and you are no longer required, please stand down". IV. Arriving at the Hall: The lead Officer will ask for an update from Dispatch and book the apparatus and personnel out on the Dispatch channel. This can be done with a portable (hand held) or mobile (truck radio). Once on route to the incident, all other personnel should switch their portable radios to their respective Ops channel or Simplex (line of sight) channel. This eliminates the volume of traffic on the Dispatch channel for critical updates. The Incident Commander should remain on Dispatch channel to continue dialogue with Dispatch and receive regular updates. V. Arriving on Scene: The lead Officer will book the unit on scene and give Dispatch an initial report/ update on the Dispatch channel. All personnel should be able to communicate on the designated Ops channel for continuity reasons. If a weak signal is present, or the incident is in a 'black zone' you may be requested by the Officer to switch to a Simplex channel (line of sight). a. E.g. traffic control may be placed on a Simplex channel to free up the Ops channel for more essential communication. VI. Issuing of Radios: Members will be issued an AFFRCS radio when the Officers of that Station deem appropriate. Typically, this will be after a 6 month minimum but is solely at the Officer’s discretion. All personnel issued a radio are responsible for any damages or loss due to negligence.

Page 642 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0128 Active Shooter Click here to enter text.

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 8/6/2015 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

This procedure establishes guidelines for Foothills Fire Department personnel who may respond to an Active Shooter Incident (ASI). The goal is to provide effective rescue procedures, common communication, and coordination with local law enforcement, as well as provide for firefighter safety while working at an Active Shooter Incident.

DEFINITIONS

Active Shooter Incident (ASI) – An armed person (shooter) who has used deadly physical force on other persons and continues to do so while having unrestricted access to additional victims.

Active Shooter Cold Zone – The location of the support functions of the ASI incident including the command post, staging, and medical group if an MCI is declared.

Active Shooter Warm Zone – The location already cleared and deemed secure by law enforcement contact teams. Fire personnel may work in this area if force protection is in place.

Active Shooter Hot Zone – The location that law enforcement contact teams are working to isolate or neutralize the ASI threat. Firefighters will not work in this zone.

Casualty Collection Point (CCP) –A location where casualties are kept and receive basic medical care until they can safely be moved to a medical treatment area. This location should be inside the cold zone whenever possible, but some situations may require it to be in the warm zone. Firefighters will work as rescue groups (RGs) with law enforcement protection in this area.

Contact Team (CT) – A law enforcement team assigned to confine or eliminate the shooter(s) that normally operate in the hot zone.

Force Protection Group (FPG) – Law enforcement officers (two or more) assigned to protect fire (RG) personnel.

Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) – An individual (or improved) first kit that carries medical

equipment to immediately address the preventablePage 643 causes of death.

Incident Action Plan (IAP) – A document put together as the event unfolds. This document will contain objectives, strategies, and tactical priorities, as well as safety concerns.

Incident Command Post (ICP) –A location within the cold zone where command and control objectives are established.

Law Enforcement (LE) - Law enforcement personnel and equipment.

Rescue Group (RG) - A team consisting of at least two Fire Department rescuers and gear with at least two Law Enforcement officers and weapons. The LE officers are to provide protection to the Fire Department rescuers. The goal of the RG is to rapidly move ASI victims from CCP to the TA for medical treatment.

Treatment Area (TA) – An area designated in the cold zone where patients from the CCP are moved and receive medical treatment. Normally MCI operations will be conducted in the treatment area.

PROCEDURE

The first arriving Fire Officer will enter into a Unified Command with local Law Enforcement, determine what additional resources are needed, and assist with the development of the Incident Action Plan.

When practical, both a Law and Fire Branch will be established with a common command radio channel. A separate tactical radio frequency for fire as well as for law enforcement will be used and confirmed. Responders must use common ICS nomenclature and clear text communications.

RESPONSIBILITY

Emergency Command Center (ECC)

ECC should obtain the following information from Law Enforcement Dispatch and include it in the initial

Fire Dispatch information:

• LE command post location • Safe access route to command post • Updates related to the scope and size of the incident

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ACTIVE SHOOTER INCIDENT

ECC must identify that an ASI event has occurred or is occurring and dispatch the appropriate resources:

1 Chief Officer 1 Engine 2 EMS Units 1 Safety Officer

*ECC must make a Joint Hazard Assessment Team (JHAT) notification if directed to by the Law Enforcement Commander.

Law Enforcement

Law Enforcement (LE) will arrive and make the determination that the incident involves an active shooter or other ongoing acts of violence. The first responding patrol officers will form a Contact Team (CT) and proceed to locate and isolate the suspect(s) followed by additional CTs.

The role of the Contact Team (CT) is to engage the suspect(s) to limit the possibility of injury or death to victims. As additional officers arrive, a safe perimeter will be established and contact will be made with local fire officials on site.

Law Enforcement will take command of the incident (Incident Command - IC) and establish the location of the Incident’s Command Post (ICP) until a higher ranking LE Officer arrives. The ranking officer should then enter into Unified Command with the ranking Fire Officer as soon as possible

Fire Officers

The first arriving Captain or Chief Oficer shall make contact with the on-scene Law Enforcement Incident Commander, enter into a Unified Command, and confirm the location of the Incident Command Post. The IC will then broadcast the specific location of the ICP to responding resources.

The Captain or Chief Officer shall also advise responding fire units of the designated incident staging location(s) and then provide a face-to-face briefing to fire resources, if possible. Radio communication directly related to the police tactical operation should not be transmitted over non-encrypted channels.

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ACTIVE SHOOTER INCIDENT

Fire Personnel

Fire personnel will don the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and maintain a high level of situational awareness. All fire personnel must prepare to engage in a rescue group assignment.

DEPLOYMENT

Fire personnel, who formed as Rescue Groups (RG) or forcible entry/exit groups will be escorted by a Force Protection Group (FPG) from Law Enforcement. The Rescue Group Leader will obtain a briefing from the Force Protection Group Leader to ensure that both groups understand the objective and direction of movement. During this operation, the RGs will be working for the leader of FPG.

The goal of the Rescue Groups is to rapidly move ASI victims with Force Protection from the Casualty Collection Point (CCP) to the Treatment Area (TA) in the cold zone where more definitive medical treatment can take place.

If the CT cannot move the injured to the Casualty Collection Point (CCP), then the Rescue Groups (RG) and Force Protection Groups will need to search and locate the injured victim(s) in the areas that have been cleared and deemed secured by the initial Contact Teams (CT). The injured shall be taken to a Casualty Collection Point (CCP) by the RGs.

All personnel operating in the CCP area must avoid hallways and doorways, and should anticipate having to bunker behind areas of cover and concealment. RGs must maintain a high level of situational awareness and may need to relocate injured patients to a treatment area in the cold zone when safe to do so.

PATIENT TREATMENT

Once victims have been identified, located, and the area secured, the Rescue Groups with Force Protection shall proceed and perform rescues during the ongoing incident. Additional RGs shall be deployed as needed with a Force Protection Group.

All fire personnel providing treatment in the Casually Collection Point (CCP) should only stabilize life threatening injuries. Medical treatment should not delay the rapid movement of ASI victims to the TA.

Fire Chief ______

Page 646 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0129 Solar Panels Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose The following standards define our procedures when solar panels are encountered during a call for service.

Policy This policy is designed to provide personnel with a guideline to utilize when they encounter solar panels during an incident.

Procedure Solar Panel Facts • It is possible for solar panels to hold a charge, even at night when artificial light shines on the panels. • Panels are safe for water when in tact. • Fire and other objects can impinge on the solar panel, causing the panel to become compromised. • Power from the panels to the inverter cannot be secured as long as the panels are generating energy, but power can be secured from the inverter to the rest of the home. • Panels might not be in a visible location, but stickers at the electric meter of the home and near the breaker box will inform of existence of panels.

Conducting Operations around Solar Panels The decision to begin fireground operations when amongst solar panels will be made by the Incident Commander after an evaluation has taken place. The evaluation will take into consideration: • The condition of the panels • Risk vs. reward analysis • The existence of a victim(s) • Fire impingement on the panels • Possible dangers to the panels • Possible dangers to the firefighters working in the vicinity of the panels, • Whether or not the power from the inverter to the home has been secured • The type of fireground activity required and any other condition deemed significant during the specific operation.

Page 647 • Power must be secured just as any other energy source in the home needs to be secured.

Fireground Tactics • “Components are always hot!” The single most critical message of emergency response personnel is to always consider photovoltaic systems and all their components as electrically energized. The inability to power-down photovoltaic panels exposed to sunlight makes this an obvious hazard during the daytime, but it is also a potential concern at nighttime for systems equipped with battery storage. • Operate normally, but don’t touch. Fire service personnel should follow their normal tactics and strategies at structure fires involving solar power systems, but do so with awareness and understanding of exposure to energized electrical equipment. Emergency response personnel should operate normally, and approach this subject area with awareness, caution, and understanding to assure that conditions are maintained as safely as possible. • Size-up, identify and validate hazard. Accurate knowledge of the hazards present on the fireground is essential for minimizing personnel injuries. Identifying the type and extent of a solar power system during the emergency event size-up is critical to properly addressing the hazards they present. In particular, it is important to distinguish between a solar thermal system and a photovoltaic system, and the hazards presented by each type of system. • Stress key message for tactical approach (especially large commercial systems). The tactical approach to solar power equipment in a building with a structure fire needs to be stressed with all fireground personnel (i.e., stay clear). Serious injury can occur with equipment such as photovoltaics on a sunny day, and the danger to fire service personnel is real and deserves attention. Of paramount concern are large commercial photovoltaic systems that generate significant levels of electricity and can create daunting strategic challenges for fire fighters as they are trying to address a building fire. • Leave the scene in a safe condition. Emergency response personnel address and mitigate hazards, and turn the scene back over the owners and/or occupants after the scene is stabilized. They need to be aware of unanticipated dangers and leave the scene in a safe condition. An example would be a photovoltaic solar power system damaged during a nighttime fire, which once exposed to sunlight, begins to generate electricity and creates a shock hazard or re-kindling of the fire.

Fire Chief ______

Page 648 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0130 Missing Person Search Location:

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 12/19/2012 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

Purpose This is to establish the guidelines for the personnel of the Foothills Fire Department for handling dispatches regarding searching for missing persons

Policy All members of the FIRE DEPARTMENT will act according to the prescribed guidelines that follow when dealing with a missing person search.

Procedure

RESPONSE • Apparatus Order: Engine, Remote, Bush, Squad, Jet boat. • SCBA required: No • Mutual Aid: Any surrounding departments

Notes: The IC is to ascertain the disposition of the subject of the search. If the subject is considered armed or dangerous, the Fire Company shall not conduct the search without appropriate precautions (as determined by the IC / local PD). The fire department will only search for missing persons under the direction of the governing on-scene police officer. Consideration should be given to the possible danger depending on the type of person being searched for and the reason they are being searched for. Searches should be conducted in an organized fashion as directed by incident command in coordination with the governing on-scene police officer. Ideally for ground searches a grid should be set up and members should walk in straight line five feet apart from each other to be sure no area is missed. When possible, thermal imaging cameras should be utilized. The CPS has a helicopter equipped with a thermal imaging camera and spotlight. The search will be considered to be concluded when the missing persons are located or at the direction of the governing on-scene police officer. Accountability of our members should be a priority. Consideration should be given to whether we are doing a search, rescue or

Page 649 recovery. Care should be given to not disrupt or contaminate the search area. For ice/water searches for missing persons refer to ice/water rescue SOP.

Fire Chief ______

Page 650 Foothills County: Foothills Fire Department

Topic: SOP# 0131 On the job injury Location: All

Drafted By: Rick Saulnier Supervisor: Click here to enter text. Management: Click here to enter text. Date: 2/14/2018 Date: Click here to enter a date. Date: Click here to enter a date.

Council Effective Date: Click here to enter a date.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Policy is to give clear direction to Officers in cases of Firefighter injuries during working hours.

If you or someone else is injured on the job, please follow these simple steps:

OBTAIN first aid or other necessary medical treatment/attention as soon as possible. The injured Firefighter comes first. This includes transportation to any medical provider outside any on-scene medical providers. Transport will be preffered by EMS, alternate transportation depending upon severity will be Fire Department apparatus. The Senior Firefighter and or an Officer must acompany the injured Firefighter to the Hospital and remain with the injured Firefighter until relieved or until the injured Firefighter is relaeased by the medical staff.

NOTIFY your Officer, the Inspector and or Chief Officers about the injury and the way in which it occurred, as soon as possible. An injured Firefighter who fails to inform his or her employer, in writing, within 48 hours after the date of the accident causing the injury, may lose the right to workers' compensation benefits.

CONDUCT an investigation into the injury by taking detailed notes, photos and using the accident investigation form found in the OHS binder.

COMPLETE all Forms WCB/OHS within 24 hours of the incident. These completed forms will then be submitted to HR and Payroll for processing.

THEREAFTER . . . Injured Firefighter will

• Follow doctor's instructions to speedy recovery. • Attend an Independent Medical Examination if you are required to do so. • Go back to work as soon as you are able. A doctor’s note must be provided from your doctor that indicates you are all clear to return to work. Doctor’s notes will be submitted to HR and Payroll for processing.

Page 651 Fire Chief______

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