Primary & Secondary Search

SECTION V

PRIMARY & SECONDARY SEARCH

PURPOSE

This order establishes definitions and guidelines relative to performing search and rescue operations at fire and other emergencies.

DEFINITIONS

PRIMARY SEARCH A primary search is a rapid interior search for victims in smoke filled or fire threatened areas of a structure involved in fire. The primary search should be accomplished quickly and as thoroughly as possible. Extension of fire becomes the critical safety factor of primary search operations.

SECONDARY SEARCH A secondary search is a complete and systematic search of the entire fire area, while the fire is being brought under control. This search should continue until all victims have been removed from the fire area. (The secondary search is often considered a recovery action, as opposed to a rescue action.)

MARKING OF ROOMS While secondary search is being conducted, rooms having been searched will be marked by a circle, with the company number 3930

Marking should be placed in an area that will be visible by other firefighting personnel. Suggested location would the bottom half of a door or on the floor of the doorway.

RESCUE & RECOVERY

PRIMARY SEARCH With a full still alarm response, the first arriving Engine Company will lead out and make all attempts to reach the seat of the fire and stop it’s extension. The second arriving Company will perform initial ventilation, if not already accomplished, followed by the employment of a primary search team of two or more personnel, lead by the Company Officer, designated as the rescue sector. The third arriving fire Company will lead out a second line, attempting to stop the extension of the fire, and to cover the search and rescue team, if necessary. Additional companies will perform various duties as designated by the Incident Commander.

If primary search cannot be accomplished using regular means of egress, then all attempts to gain access by exterior means (windows, balconies, etc.) will be utilized. PRIMARY SEARCH CONT’D.

Upon completion of the primary search by the rescue sector, the sector officer will report, either face to face or via radio, to the Incident Commander that the Primary Search has been completed. Your report should include a list all of the areas covered by the search.

SECONDARY SEARCH The secondary search is a thorough room by room search, to ensure that all victims have been removed.

All search teams operating in the rescue sector will be equipped with radios for communication, and chalk or markers to properly designate areas already searched.

The search will include closets, under and on top of beds, on top and behind furniture, inside toy boxes, trunks, etc., bath tubs, shower stalls, and any other area where a frightened person may seek refuge.

NOTE: In situations involving structural instability or collapse, shoring and power equipment may be required to ensure the safety of our personnel, prior to conducting a search.

By Orders Of,

James Krohse Fire Chief