What Are the Critical Issues

May 1, 2005 Topic of Choice

Scenario

Develop a scenario for you job area based on the concept of it being a high risk low frequency situations that you might encounter.

What Are The Critical Issues

Critical Safety Measures

Reference

Close May 2, 2005 Hazard Mitigation Through Risk

Scenario

You arrive on scene of a fast moving fire. You note that there are numerous structures and there are personnel who have dispatched themselves to the fire and they are working without supervision. The fire is beginning to become a crown fire. What actions would you take to assure the safety of all personnel on the fire?

What Are The Critical Issues

“Risk management doesn’t get in the way of doing the mission – it is the way we do the mission.” The Risk Management Process assists in ensuring that critical factors and risks of the fireline work environment are considered during decision making. Good risk management utilizes a five-step process.

Critical Safety Measures

Good risk management utilizes a five-step process:

 Step 1—Situational Awareness

o Obtain information. o Scout the fire. o Identify hazards—those likely to result in a negative impact. o Consider all aspects of current and future situations. o Consider known historical problem areas (Apply information from the Fire Danger Pocket Card.). o Recognize the need for action. o Demonstrate ongoing awareness of fire assignment status. o Note deviations. o Attempt to determine why discrepancies exist with information before proceeding.

 Step 2—Hazard Assessment

o Assess hazards to determine risks (e.g., fire behavior, snags, unburned fuels, work/rest). o Use the Look Up, Down, and Around; and the Tactical Watch Outs (both located in the Incident Response Pocket Guide) to identify high-risk tactical hazards. o Assess the impact of each hazard in terms of potential loss, cost, and mission/operational degradation based on probability and severity (probability—how likely an event will occur; severity— consequences if the event occurs). Keep in mind that increased exposure time increases probability.

 Step 3—Hazard Control

o Determine the best approach to mitigate or control the risk from the hazards assessed. o Establish controls (e.g., anchor point, LCES, utilize downhill checklist, limit exposure time). o As control measures are developed, reevaluate each risk until it is reduced to a level where benefits outweigh potential costs.

Reference

NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide, PMS 461, NFES 1077 NWCG Human Factors on the Fireline Training Guide S-339, Division Supervisor Course Guide BLM Safety and Occupational Health Manual Handbook, 1112-1

May 3, 2005 Hazard Mitigation Through Risk Scenario

You are on a fire where you are being asked to build line down hill. You note that the fire is burning in a stand of bug killed timber. You also note that the fire has burned quite active all day.

What Are The Critical Issues

Critical Safety Measures

Good risk management utilizes a five-step process:  Step 4—Decision Point (decision to accept or not accept the risk(s) associated with an action) o Consider whether controls are in place for identified hazards, whether selected tactics are based on expected fire behavior and if instructions have been given and understood. o Make certain the decision is made at the appropriate level; if not, then elevate to a higher level. o Reject the action if the risk is unacceptable.  Step 5—Evaluation o Ensure controls are implemented and accomplished to standards. o Supervise/evaluate effectiveness of controls and decisions. Stay on top of the situation and adjust risk controls as necessary. o Anticipate consequences of decisions; if controls do not work, determine problem and derive a better solution. o Adjust actions as the situation changes; maintain situational awareness at all times. o Maintain feedback line. Reference NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide, PMS 461, NFES 1077 NWCG Human Factors on the Fireline Training Guide S-339, Division Supervisor Course Guide BLM Safety and Occupational Health Manual Handbook, 1112-1

Close May 4, 2005 Topic of Choice

Scenario

Develop a scenario for you job area based on the concept of it being a high risk low frequency situations that you might encounter.

What Are The Critical Issues

Critical Safety Measures

Reference

Close May 5, 2005 Power Line Safety

Scenario

You are scouting line for your crew that is flanking a wind driven fire. You come across a downed power line.

What Are The Critical Issues

Operating near or under power lines poses unique hazards, and the following precautions should be followed to reduce potential equipment damage or injury.

Critical Safety Measures

The following precautions should be followed to reduce potential equipment damage or injury:

 If possible, the power company should deactivate lines in the fire area.

 Don’t operate heavy equipment under power lines.

 Don’t use right-of-ways as a jump or cargo drop spot.

 Don’t drive with long antennas under power lines.

 Don’t stand near power lines during retardant drops.

 Don’t park under power lines. The magnetic field around energized power lines can induce an electrical charge in ungrounded vehicles or equipment. This charge can shock anyone who touches the vehicle.

 Don’t apply straight stream to power lines.

 All personnel should be cautioned that smoke may become charged and conduct the electrical current. Deactivated transmission and distribution lines may continue to pose a hazard due to induction.

 If power lines fall on your vehicle, DON’T leave the vehicle until the power company arrives. If the vehicle is on fire or fire is near, jump clear, don’t hang on, keep feet together, and bunny hop away.

Reference

NWCG Fireline Handbook, PMS 410-1, NFES 0065 Close

Fatalities have occurred from fire fighters coming into contact with downed power lines. May 6, 2005 Proper Use of Trigger Points

Scenario

You have been attempting to build a line around a fire that you are assigned to. You have been working for hours with little project. You note that you are getting frequent spot fires as the result of spotting across the line you have constructed. You also note that individual trees are torching. You have been asked whether you should disengage.

Critical Safety Measures

Accurate situational awareness (SA) requires constant reassessment of conditions (existing or potential) that may impact the safety and effectiveness of firefighters. Keeping an eye out for the 18-Watchout Situations and establishing operational/environmental limits (“trigger points”) ahead of time can help to focus SA, prompt reassessment, and help you re-evaluate the risk of current actions. The following items are things to consider in your planning and discussion. Remember, trigger points are NOT decision makers, but serve as a predetermined cues to prompt you to re-evaluate the situation and associated risks, and help you to determine and implement the proper course of action. The following items are things to consider in your planning and discussion:

 Preplan! Don’t wait until you’re in the wrong placed at the wrong time -----with no time

 Trigger points should be based on measurable factors such as:

o RH o Winds o Fire behavior o Topographical boundaries o Time/distance to safety zones o Loss of support resources (airtankers, helicopters, etc.) o Other operational considerations (e.g., firefighter fatigue, loss of lookouts or communication)

 As you approach predetermined trigger points, go through the Risk Management Process to help you decide if a change in tactics is appropriate. (See the Incident Response Pocket Guide).

o Gather information to assure good Situational Awareness o Assessment hazards to anticipate serious risks. o Establish Hazard Controls to mitigate serious risk. o Make decisions based on your ability to mitigate those serious risks. o Evaluate effectiveness of current actions.

 When disengagement occurs, determine the disengagement type.

o Hold in place—order additional resources or wait for the fire to take its run. o Change tactics—direct to indirect. o Pull back—shorten the distance/time to the safety zone. o Retreat—halt operations and move rapidly to the safety zone.

 When disengagement occurs, define reengagement criteria.

o Winds die down o Fire behavior decreases o Additional resources arrive o Fire reaches barriers or fuel breaks o Tactics are agreed upon and relayed to forces.

 Command/Leadership responsibilities resulting from changes in engagement plans include:

o Communicate the changes to your subordinates, as well as to adjacent forces and up the chain of command. o Account for all your people. o Make sure everyone follows the disengagement plan. o Make sure an experienced person with a radio is the last person out during a retreat. o Use the Risk Management Process (see the Incident Response Pocket Guide) to reassess the situation before reengaging the fire.

Reference

CD – Entrapment Avoidance – “It’s your call!”

Close May 7, 2005 Wildland/Urban Interface – Structural Protection

Scenario

You are a module leader of an engine module assigned to a fire in an urban interface. The vegetation is made up of a conifer stand with an under story of brush. You are assigned to protect a house from the approaching fire.

What Are The Critical Issues

The primary consideration of any operation is to assure firefighter and public safety. It is a must to assess potential fire behavior, ingress/egress routes, and nature of the threat, hazardous materials, and available water supplies before engaging in the protection of any structure.

Critical Safety Measures

 Factors that may make an attempt to save a structure hopeless or too dangerous include:

o The fire is making a sustained run and there is little or no clearance between the structure and the fuel. o The fire behavior is extreme; spot fires are numerous and the spread is outpacing containment. o Water supply will not last as long as the threat of the fire. o The fire’s intensity dictates that you leave the fire area immediately. o The structure is constructed of wood and has a wood, shake roof. o The roof of the structure is more than one-quarter involved. o There is fire inside of the structure or windows are broken and there is no way to quickly repair them. o You can’t safely remain at the structure because your escape route could become unusable.

 When implementing a plan to protect structures, consider the following:

o Don’t enter a burning structure unless you are trained, equipped, and authorized. Firefighter safety and survival is the number one priority. o Always stay mobile and wear all of your PPE. o Back in equipment to allow for a quick escape. o Coil a short, 1 ½”, charged line with fog nozzle on your engine for safety and quick knock down capability. o Don’t make long hose lays. Keep at least 100 gallons of water reserve in your tank. o Check the road system before the fire approaches. Know bridge limits, alternate access routes, and turnarounds for your vehicle and other support vehicles. o Determine if residents are home. Leave on the inside and outside lights, regardless of the time of day. Close the garage door. o Place the owner’s ladder at a corner of the home on the side with the least fire threat. o Coil and charge garden hoses. o Check and mark hazmat; e.g., LPG, pesticides, and paint storage.

Reference

NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide, PMS 461, NFES 1077

Close May 8, 2005 Topic of Choice

Scenario

Develop a scenario for you job area based on the concept of it being a high risk low frequency situations that you might encounter.

What Are The Critical Issues

Critical Safety Measures

Reference

Close May 9, 2005 Constructing Line Without a Safe Anchor Point

Scenario

You are a module leader of an engine being dispatched to IA incident. Upon arrival at the incident you are directed to begin line construction. You note that the point you are directed to begin line construction is not a good anchor point. You recognize you are being directed to violate Watch Out Situation #8 “Constructing line without safe anchor point.” What action should you take to assure that the safety of you and your crew is not compromised.

What Are The Critical Issues

Watch Out Situation # 8. “Constructing line without safe anchor point.”

Critical Safety Measures

When deciding where to build fireline, the following considerations must be weighed:

 Can you hold the line without the fire hooking under/around you? How do you protect against losing the line and ensure your safety if there is a danger of the fire hooking around you?

 Are there adequate safety zones and escape routes? Review what constitutes an adequate safety zone and escape route. Who has the responsibility to designate them and continue to make sure they are adequate?

 Can you develop your starting point into an anchor point? List some good anchor points. Describe how you would develop your starting point into an anchor point.

 Have you posted good lookouts? Where should the lookout(s) be posted? Who can be a lookout?

 Do you have good communications? Who do you need to be in contact with? If the communications are not good, what can you do to improve them?

 To reduce the risks, start the line in another location. Talk about fires where you have had to relocate the line because your anchor point did not hold the fire. Reference

NWCG Fireline Handbook, PMS 410-1, NFES 0065 Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire Aviation Operations 2004

Close May 10, 2005 Aviation “Watch Out” Situation

Scenario

You have been asked to arrange a flight for some dignitaries so they can look at the fire. In addition the Operation folks are requesting a recon flight. The fire has been very active all day so there are air tankers and large helicopters currently flying to support the line building action. You have to make a decision whether to approve the flight.

What Are The Critical Issues

As part of risk management, especially during high activity fires, each aviation manager and employee should be asking questions.

 Is the flight necessary?

 Who is in charge?

 Are all hazards identified and have you made them known?

 Should the operation or the flight be stopped due to a change in conditions? Consider the following:

o Communications o Confusion o Personnel o Weather o Turbulence o Conflicting priorities

 Is there a better way to do it?

 Are you driven by the task and sense of urgency?

 Can you justify your actions?

 Are there other aircraft in the area?

 Will the pilot accept the mission?

 Are any guidelines being ignored or policies being broken?

 Are communications getting tense?  Are you deviating from the assigned operation or flight?

Critical Safety Measures

Reference

NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide, PMS 461, NFES 1077

Close May 11, 2005 Topic of Choice

Scenario

Develop a scenario for you job area based on the concept of it being a high risk low frequency situations that you might encounter.

What Are The Critical Issues

Critical Safety Measures

Reference

Close May 12, 2005 In Country Not Seen in Daylight

Scenario

You arrive to assist on an extended attack fire. You contact the IC and are instructed to start fighting fire where you think it needs it most. It is smokey and getting dark, fire is very active.

What Are The Critical Issues

Often firefighters arrive on a fire after dark. This is recognized as Watchout Situation #2.

Critical Safety Measures

Before safely fighting fire in country not seen in daylight, firefighters must be able to answer the following questions:

 Can the resources you are replacing give you a thorough briefing? Identify whom you might get information from. Is there an airtanker, air attack or a jump ship in the area that can give you information? Can you meet up with the departing crew/engine leaders?

 Can you observe the area/use scouts? List ways you could observe the area you need to begin work in.

 Have escape routes and safety zones been thoroughly scouted and marked for night use? Talk about what constitutes an escape route and a safety zone; who would identify them; and in what ways might they be marked.

 Have potential dangers been located; can they be mitigated? What are the dangers associated with Watch Out Situation #2? How can they be worked around?

 Reduce the risks by:

o Posting lookouts. o Checking communications. o Retreat if you have doubts about your escape routes or safety zones or the situation becomes too complex. Give examples of arriving on a fire after dark and what was done to allow you to fight fire safely in country not seen in daylight. Reference

NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide, PMS 461, NFES 1077

Close May 13, 2005 OPERATIONAL BRIEFINGS

Scenario

You are the module leader of an initial attack engine sent to an incident on a neighboring unit. When you arrive at the incident you are directed by the Incident Commander but you are not given a briefing. What should you do?

What are the Critical Issues?

Operational briefings are critical to safe fire operations. To insure a consistent and effective briefing, a standardized briefing checklist should always be used.

Critical Safety Measures

The following is the checklist printed on the cover of the NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide.

 Situation

o Fire name, location, map orientation, other incidents in the area o Terrain influences o Fuel type and conditions o Fire weather (previous, current, and expected) o Fire behavior (previous, current, and expected)

 Mission/Execution

o Command (Incident Commander/Immediate Supervisor) o Commander’s intent (overall strategy/objectives) o Specific tactical assignments o Contingency plans

 Communications

o Communication plan (tactical, command, air/ground frequencies, cell phone numbers, etc.) o Medi-vac Plan

 Service/Support

o Other resources working adjacent and those available to order including aviation operations o Logistics—transportation, supplies and equipment  Risk Management

o Identify known hazards and risks. o Identify control measures to eliminate hazards and reduce risk. o Identify trigger points for disengagement, or reevaluation of operational plan.

 Questions or Concerns

References

NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide, PMS 461, NFES 1077. NWCG Fireline Handbook, PMS 410-1, NFES 0065.

A complete and timely briefing is critical to a safe and successful operation. Assure that you and any resources assigned to you are briefed before engaging on any assignment. May 14, 2005 Attempting a Frontal Assault on a Fire

Scenario

You arrive on a fire in your engine and realize that you have an opportunity to stop the fire before it crosses the road if you attack the head of the fire as it comes toward the road.

What are the Critical Issues

Attempting a frontal assault on a fire is recognized as Watchout Situation #10 and is a potentially dangerous tactic.

Critical Safety Measures

If your tactics include a frontal assault, the following checklist must be adequately addressed before engaging the fire:

 Has the fire been scouted and sized up? If not, who will complete the task.  Is your position defensible? List what makes a firefighter’s position defensible. (Anchor points, safety zones, escape routes, etc.)  Are escape routes and safety zones adequate? Review what constitutes an adequate safety zone and escape route.  Do you have an anchor point? How would you establish an anchor point for a frontal assault on a fire?  Do you have adequate resources to complete the assault? Discuss things you need to consider; for example, if the frontal assault fails, do you have backup?  Is the terrain favorable to holding the fire? Discuss ways the terrain will influence where you will make a stand.  Continually reassess your tactics. As conditions change, assure your tactics are appropriate for the situation you are facing.  Post lookouts in several locations to assure you have eyes on all areas of your operations.  Review your escape routes and safety zones. How long will it take you to get to your safety zone? Have you got sufficient time to get all resources there safely?  Fire behavior is critical in a frontal assault. Assure that the fire is doing what you expect it do. If not, reassess your tactics and revise them as need to fit the current fire behavior. Reference

Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire Aviation Operations 2004 Fireline Handbook, PMS 410-1, NFES 0065 Incident Response Pocket Guide, PMS 461, NFES 1077 10 Standard Fire Orders 18 Watchout Situations

A frontal assault on a fire can be an effective tactic to control the fire but it is a tactic that has inherent hazards that must be mitigated. May 15, 2005 Topic of Choice

Scenario

Develop a scenario for you job area based on the concept of it being a high risk low frequency situations that you might encounter.

What Are The Critical Issues

Critical Safety Measures

Reference

Close May 16, 2005 Roadside Incident Response

Scenario

You are a 3-person initial attack module responding to a roadside incident that is immediately adjacent to a major highway. On arrival at the scene you find a tanker truck that is on its side and there is a small wildland fire burning next to the truck.

What are the Critical Issues

Nationally, the number of injuries and fatalities among emergency responders who are responding to roadside incidents is increasing at an increasing rate. Although most wildland fires occur in remote areas, there are situations where wildland fire personnel are responding to fires along rural country roads, jeep roads, or major highways; the risk still exists for our firefighters

 Considerations o Firefighter and public safety will always be the number one priority. o Utilize L.C.E.S. in all incident activities. o Personal Protective Equipment will be used on all incidents.

Critical Safety Measures

 Upon Arrival at the Scene Size up incident- see Incident Response Pocket Guide o What has happened? o What is happening? o What will or could happen?

Is this a HazMat situation?

Risk Management Process-

o Decision Point, Go No Go. See the Incident Response Pocket Guide, page 1

 Tactical Considerations

o Anytime traffic flow is affected by the incident, contact the jurisdictional agency (law enforcement or Department of Transportation) for assistance. o Conduct all operations as far from traffic lanes as possible to provide for crew and public safety. o Park units on the same side of the roadway when ever possible to avoid traffic congestion. o Personnel do not exit the fire apparatus until instructed to do so by the module leader. o Exit the fire apparatus away from the roadway or where hazard exposure is minimized. o Exit the fire apparatus with full personal protective equipment. o Post a lookout to watch for and control oncoming traffic. o Utilize forward and rear spotters when visibility is impaired or road conditions warrant. o Utilize and place road flares or other traffic warning signs when ever possible o If equipment needs to be removed from the traffic side of the apparatus, one person will retrieve the equipment and a lookout will watch for oncoming traffic. o Engine operators will operate pumps from the non-traffic side or from the cab of the apparatus when possible. Keep all hose, fire tools, and equipment out of traffic lanes when possible. o During night operations utilize reflective clothing, vests and other safety equipment as necessary. o All emergency responses on roadways will be concluded as quickly as possible to reduce personnel exposure.

 Cancel or demob unnecessary apparatus as soon as possible.

** Each agency emergency vehicle operator will follow their particular state laws and agency policies governing the operations of emergency vehicles.

Reference

N/A

Working adjacent to any road can be a hazardous arrangement. Even when there is adequate signing do not expect passing vehicles to respond to signing or the emergency vehicle warning lights. Over the years there are many example where first responders have been seriously hurt or killed because of inattention of drivers in vehicle passing the scene of the incident. May 17, 2005 RETARDANT DROP SAFETY

Scenario

You are on a 5-person initial attack crew assisting on cooperating agency wildlife. The fire is approximately 75 acres in size and you are in a fuel model 8 with moderate canopy closure. You have been asked to anchor into the road and take flanking action by digging fire line. You are aware that they are dropping retardant on the other side of the fire but out of nowhere a plane drops retardant on you and your crew.

What Are The Critical Issues

Having retardant dropped on a fire should be a routine event. However, there are risks associated with retardant drops that can pose serious threats to personnel and equipment.

Critical Safety Measures

Consider the following for all drops:

 Be aware of the location of lead planes and airtankers during retardant drop operations.

 Be sure you have positive contact with the lead plane or airtanker before the drop.

 Personnel can be injured by the impact of retardant drops. Clear personnel out of the target area when the drop is conducted. If an individual is unable to retreat to a safe place, the best method for minimizing injury from the drop is to:

o Hold your hand tool away from your body. o Lie face down with hardhat in place and head toward the oncoming aircraft. o Grasp something firm to prevent being carried or rolled about by the retardant. o Do not run unless escape is ensured. o Get clear of dead snags and tops. o Be aware of rolling debris below the drop site in steep terrain.

 Working in an area covered by retardant should be done with caution due to slippery surfaces.

 If possible, wash the retardant off your skin to prevent irritation. Reference

N/A

If retardant is dropped at the prescribed drop height the retardant will have stopped it’s forward motion and will fall like rain. However, there is no guarantee that each load will be dropped at the desired drop height because the pilot is not, for various reasons, always able to accurately drop at the desired drop height. If the retardant is dropped to low it will fail to break up before it hits the ground and it hits the ground as a solid mass with considerable force (retardant weighs approximately 9 pounds per gallon). The observed results has been the knocking the tops out of trees, knocking over large diameter trees, punching holes in the roofs of buildings, causing rocks to be displaced and seriously damaging vehicles. May 18, 2005 Topic of Choice

Scenario

Develop a scenario for you job area based on the concept of it being a high risk low frequency situations that you might encounter.

What Are The Critical Issues

Critical Safety Measures

Reference

Close May 19, 2005 VEHICLE ENTRAPMENT

Scenario

You are the duty officer on a hot, dry, day in late August; your district has just experienced lightning. You are out looking for a reported smoke. You drive down a road and find it is a dead end. You notice a smoke down slope below the road and fire activity is beginning to increase.

What Are The Critical Issues

 Driving down a one-way road may compromise ingress/egress.

Critical Safety Measures

If you find yourself in a fire entrapment situation where a shelter deployment is not possible, using a vehicle for refuge may be an option. The following are some considerations for a vehicle entrapment:

 Turn off and/or close outside air vents

 Park the vehicle in an area void of vegetation.

 Fire out around the vehicle if there is time.

 Park behind a natural barrier or structure.

 Do not park on the downhill side of a road or under power lines or over- hanging vegetation.

 Stay out of saddles or draws.

 Position the vehicle in a direction that provides the area occupied by crew personnel the maximum protection from an approaching flame front.

 Set the parking break, leave the motor running at high RPM, close outside vents, and keep the vehicle lights on.

 Roll up the windows and do not lock the doors since someone else might need to get in.

 Cover windows with fire shelters with reflective material placed against window.  You must protect your airway, remain as low in the vehicle as possible, and use a dry bandana to cover your nose and mouth.

 Expect the following conditions if you are trapped inside the vehicle:

o Temperatures may reach over 200 degrees Fahrenheit. o Smoke and sparks may enter the vehicle. o Plastic parts may start to melt and give off toxic gases. o Windows may start to crack. o Exposed skin may receive radiant heat burns.

 If the vehicle catches fire, or windows blow out, and you must exit the vehicle before the fire has passed, then:

o Each crewmember should cover himself/herself with a fire shelter. o Exit the vehicle from the side away from the greatest heat. o Stay together and get as low to the ground as possible, moving away from the vehicle. o Deploy your shelter in a safe area.

Additional Reference:

N/A

Most fires are innocent in appearance, but on days of high fire danger, flares up, spotting and runs may occur. May 20, 2005 Ash Pits Scenario

It is late August and you have been assigned to a fire that has burn very hot with near total consumption. You are assigned to a division to do mop up.

What Are The Critical Issues

Ash pits are an inherent and invisible risk to wildland firefighters that can cause severe burns and injuries. Ash pits are created when organic combustibles consume underground and empty space is created that is undetectable from the surface.

 Environmental factors that increase the risk of ash pit formation after a wildfire

o Extensive root systems of trees and shrubs o Deep duff or peat, the organic layer covering mineral soil o Landscapes that have once been cultivated or manipulated by heavy equipment i.e., old dozer piles, sawmills, timber sale yards or decking areas o Small rodent holes that have become filled with decadent combustible debris i.e., beaver holes near dams and streambeds, Badger and Coyote dens. o White ash is sometimes an indicator as are groups of hovering insects.

Critical Safety Measures

 Mitigation measures to consider:

o Identification of high risk landscape o Identify and flag all hazardous discovered ash pits

Reference

N/A

Any time you are working in an area where the fire has burned for a long duration there is a potential for Ash Pits. Thus extra care must be taken. May 21, 2005 THUNDERSTORM SAFETY

Scenario

You and your crew are working on an isolated section of line along a ridge. You begin to hear thunder and notice lightning strikes hitting the ground in your vicinity.

What Are The Critical Issues

Thunderstorms cause significant hazards for wildland firefighters, including downbursts that can cause extreme fire behavior and lightning.

Critical Safety Measures When thunderstorm development is likely, lookouts should be posted and aware of signs of a developing storm. A sudden reversal in wind direction, a noticeable rise in wind speed, and a sharp drop in temperature may note the mature stage of a storm. Heavy rain, hail and lightning occur only in the mature stage of a thunderstorm. During a storm, use the following guidelines:

 Do not lie down.

o The best position is sitting on the pack or crouching with feet close together. o Avoid sitting directly on the ground, if possible; but, if necessary, keep feet and butt close together. o Crouching for extended periods is not easily done, so sit on the pack. o Sitting on or covering up with a ground cloth is okay.

 Removing caulk boots to allow stocking-covered or bare feet to make contact with the ground will not provide safety.

 Handheld radios (with short rubber antennas) or cell phones are safe to use. Communication is vital to crew safety.

 Wide, open spaces are better than trees or clumps of trees in the vicinity. Ridge tops, etc., should be avoided.

 If you feel the hair on your arms or head “stand up,” there is a high probability of a strike in the vicinity. Crouch or sit on a pack.

 Continue to monitor fire behavior as thunderstorms can have severe winds associated with them, which affect fire behavior. Reference

Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire Aviation Operations 2004 Fire Weather Handbook

Closure

Post lookouts that can see not only the fire but also the surrounding area to warn of lightning storms. Remember that lightning can strike the ground outside the immediate area under the thunder cell. May 22, 2005 Topic of Choice

Scenario

Develop a scenario for you job area based on the concept of it being a high risk low frequency situations that you might encounter.

What Are The Critical Issues

Critical Safety Measures

Reference

Close May 23, 2005 RESPONDING TO VEHICLE FIRES

Scenario

You are the Captain of a Type 6 engine in route to a reported smoke. You round the corner on a well used paved road within your agencies jurisdiction and see that the reported smoke is a pickup truck with a camper.

What Are The Critical Issues

 There are many health hazards present with vehicle fires.  Are there structure fire departments available for dispatch in your area?  Vehicle fires are low occurrence/high risk events for most wild land fire fighters.

Critical Safety Measures

Suppression of vehicle fires is extremely dangerous and poses many health hazards to firefighters. The following procedures are recommended:

 Secure the scene and provide or request assistance for traffic control.

 Provide for your escape route at the scene.

 Do not use road flares if fuel is leaking from the vehicle or if wildland fuel is nearby.

 Vehicle fires are considered a hazardous materials scene. Suppression action should only be taken if the crew is trained, equipped, and authorized in the use of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatuses (SCBA).

 If taking suppression action on wildland fuels, firefighters should ensure that they are a safe distance from the burning vehicle (100-feet minimum), and avoid contact with vehicle fire smoke or fumes.

 Contact law enforcement in the case of a vehicle accident.

 Contact ambulance or EMS if there are injuries.

Additional Reference:

Incident Response Pocket Guide PMS #461, NFES #1077, January 2002 Close

Vehicle fires are something most wild land fire fighters encounter during their career. Acquiring training in vehicle fires and drilling in your agencies standard operating procedures for vehicle fires will greatly enhance your safety and proficiency. May 24, 2005 Helicopter Landing Area Selection

Scenario You are assigned to a division of a large fire with your engine crew. A crewmember on an adjoining crew has suffered a severe cut on his lower leg. You feel there is a need to do a helicopter evacuation. The Division Supervisor has just called you on the radio and asks you to locate a landing area for the helicopter.

What Are The Critical Issues

What are the safety requirements needed for a helicopter landing area? Do you have the resources?

Critical Safety Measures

Consider the following points when selecting a landing area for a helicopter:

 Locate a flat area that is of sufficient size for the helicopter you are expecting to land.

o Type I – Clear and level touchdown pad measuring 30 feet by 30 feet; safety circle measuring 110 feet in diameter. o Type II – Clear and level touchdown pad measuring 20 feet by 20 feet; safety circle measuring 90 feet in diameter. o Type III – Clear and level touchdown pad measuring 15 feet by 15 feet; safety circle measuring 75 feet in diameter.

 Choose an area clear of people, vehicles, and obstructions such as trees, poles, and especially overhead wires.

 The area must be free of stumps, brush, posts, large rocks or anything over 18 inches high.

 Consider the wind direction. Helicopters land and take off into the wind.

 Choose an approach free of obstructions. Any obstruction should be relayed to the helicopter crew during initial radio contact.

 Remove or secure any loose items in and around the landing area such as trash, blankets, hats, or equipment.

 Wet down the landing area if dusty conditions are present. Reference

NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide, PMS 461, NFES 1077 NWCG Interagency Helicopter Operations Guide, NFES 1885 NWCG Fireline Handbook, PMS 410-1, NFES 0065

Safety is the critical consideration in location of a helicopter-landing site. Do not utilize any location that is not completely safe. May 25, 2005 Topic of Choice

Scenario

Develop a scenario for you job area based on the concept of it being a high risk low frequency situations that you might encounter.

What Are The Critical Issues

Critical Safety Measures

Reference

May 26, 2005 Helicopter Landing Area Safety

Scenario

While on an incident, you are assigned to a division that will require you to fly in a helicopter.

What are the Critical Issues

 What personal protective equipment (PPE) should you wear when flying in a helicopter?  Who do you look to for instructions when you are about to approach the helicopter?  Do you know the position you should take as you approach a starting or running helicopter?  When approaching a helicopter, should you do so from the uphill or downhill side.  What do you do with loose articles as you approach a helicopter.

Critical Safety Measures

The following points should be considered when operating around an unimproved landing site:

 Assure you have all needed personal protective equipment on before you prepare to board the helicopter.  Always get the approval of a flight crewmember or the pilot before approaching a starting or operating helicopter.  Only approach and depart a helicopter as directed, in a slightly crouched position, and in full view of a crewmember.  When approaching or departing an operating helicopter, never approach or depart uphill and do not hold equipment above you’re head.  Always approach an operating helicopter from the downhill side.  Remove or secure loose articles when working around an operating helicopter.  Be aware that blowing dust, sand, or rocks caused by the helicopter’s rotor wash can be hazardous.

References

NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide, PMS 461, NFES 1077 NWCG Interagency Helicopter Operations Guide, NFES 1885 NWCG Fireline Handbook, PMS 410-1, NFES 0065 Close

Helicopters are a important tool for use in fire suppression, but they can be dangerous if people are not aware of the associated hazards and know how to operate safely around them. May 27, 2005 Serious Injury Procedures

SCENARIO:

You have been spiked out on a fire for 2 days and it is expected that you will have the fire contained at the end of shift on the third day. Midway through the shift you get a call from the crew boss on an AD crew who’s crewmember has fallen and hurt his neck.

CRITICAL ISSUES:

 Is there an EMT on site? If there is not, why?  Are you endangering yourself or others by helping this injured person?  Do you have to move person to get to helispot?  Can the person be moved without further injury?

CRITICAL SAFETY MEASURES:

Dealing with serious injuries on the fireline can add even more stress to our hetic work environment. If you encounter a serious injury, consider the following:

 Administer first aid and call for medical aid and transportation, if needed.  Do not release the injured person’s name except to authorities. Never broadcast the injured person’s name over the radio or cell phone.  Do not allow unauthorized picture taking or release of pictures.  Notify the Incident Commander. The IC’s job is then to the following:

o Assign a person to supervise evacuation, if necessary, and to stay with the patient until medical care arrives. In rough terrain, at least 15 workers will be required to carry a stretcher. o Assign a person gather the facts and witness statements and preserve evidence until investigation can be assumed by the Safety Officer or appointed investigating team. o Notify Dispatch.

REFERENCE:

NWCG Fireline Handbook, PMS 410-1, NFES 0065, Chapter 5 page 64, Injury/Fatality procedures.

CLOSE:

It is important that prompt first aid be administered so as to minimize the trauma of the injured person. May 28, 2005 Initiate All actions Based on Current and Expected Fire Behavior

Scenario

You are the crew leader for a 20-person initial attack crew. You have been assigned to a lightning fire. The fire is approximately 40 acres in size. Your crew will be replacing a crew that was assigned to this fire and has worked on containment all night.

What Are The Critical Issues

 Can the resources you are replacing give you a thorough briefing? What information will you want to get from resources you are replacing?

 Can you observe the area or use scouts? What information are the scouts looking for?

 Have escape routes and safety zones been thoroughly scouted? List some ways your crew will scout out an area before you begin working.

 Are escape routes and safety zones marked for night use? How do you adjust marking safety zones and escape routes for night use?

 Have potential dangers been located and can they be dealt with? List some dangerous fire behavior you may encounter and how you would deal with it.

 Do you have access to weather and fire behavior forecasts? What is your unit’s procedure for obtaining forecasts?

Critical Safety Measures

 To reduce risk, initiate the following:

o Scout the fire. o Post lookouts. o Check communications. o Retreat if you have doubts about your escape routes or safety zones or if the situation becomes too complex. Discuss fires where you have adjusted your actions based on current and expected fire behavior. Reference

NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide, PMS 461, NFES 1077 NWCG Fireline Handbook, PMS 410-1, NFES 0065 Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire Aviation Operations 2004

It is critical that you base all action on the current and expected fire behavior. Observe personally and use scouts. You cannot know what the expected fire behavior is without observing the fire and having good weather information. May 29, 2005 Topic of Choice

Scenario

Develop a scenario for you job area based on the concept of it being a high risk low frequency situations that you might encounter.

What Are The Critical Issues

Critical Safety Measures

Reference

Close May 30, 2005 Instructions and Assignments not Clear

Scenario

You and your crew have just received a briefing from the district fire management officer who was the initial attack incident commander. The incident commander has worked a very long shift and is very tired. She is in a hurry to get off shift. After the briefing you realize that you did not understand the assignment and that the instructions were not clear.

What Are The Critical Issues

Every firefighter will give and receive briefings at some point on the job. Briefings are an effective way to disseminate information that can make the firefighter’s job safer and easier. It is critical that all instructions are clear and understood by everyone involved.

Critical Safety Measures

 It is important for the firefighter who is receiving instructions to be mindful of the following during the briefing:

o Did you really listen? What do you do to make yourself pay attention to everything being said? o Did you understand the assignment, location, and the nature and location of hazards? Do you expect to figure it out for yourself when you get out there or do you step forward and ask questions?

 To reduce the risks, take the time and get it right!

 You must know the location of the assignment and:

o What is to be done. o Who you are to report to and how often to report. o When you are expected to complete the assignment. o Hazards. o Communication plan frequencies. o Weather and fire behavior. o Status of adjoining forces. When giving a briefing consider:

 Did they ask questions? Talk about what it is like giving a briefing. Do you get empty stares? What feedback are you looking for to ensure they understand you?

 Did they take notes? What kind of information would you like to see people write down?

 Did they repeat information back? What other ways can you identify that your briefing is registering?

 Did you give all the necessary information? How will you ensure that you covered everything necessary?

o Task o Location o Communications o Hazards o Who, when, etc.

Reference

Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire Aviation Operations 2004

It is very important that all instructions are clear and well understood. Use the feedback process… I want to make sure you understand what I just told you. Please repeat back to me exactly what I want you to do. May 31, 2005 AVIATION COMMUNICATIONS

Scenario

You are the crew leader for a Type II Hand crew. You have been assigned to a fire that has escaped initial attack. A Type II helicopter has been assigned to your segment of the fire. You ask one of the Squad Bosses to work with the helicopter to complete bucket drops on the fire. While monitoring the radio you notice the pilot having difficulty in understanding the directions he is receiving from the Squad Boss.

What Are The Critical Issues

 Working with helicopters for bucket work.  Crewmembers experience in working with aircraft.  Radio protocol and procedure.

Critical Safety Measures

Discuss the following information in terms of effective communication with aircraft.

 Establish an air-to-ground frequency on the fire, and make sure everyone knows what it is.

 Consider using national air-to-ground frequencies.

 Discuss Guard frequencies.

o How they work o What they are for aircraft in your area

 Aviation communications should be clear, concise, short, and to the point.

 Only firefighters with the proper training and experience should direct aircraft for bucket drops etc.

 Use standard terminology that can be understood by all people you are talking to.

 Do not use local slang.  Before you key your microphone to talk, be sure to listen to ensure you don’t cut into another transmission.

 Know what you want to say before you key the microphone.

 Identify who you want to talk to by the call sign and identify yourself in every transmission.

 If the frequency gets congested, request another frequency. Upon receipt, ensure that all people who need to be on the new frequency transfer to that frequency.

 Give only meaningful information on the radio.

 Give accurate and descriptive ground information when describing a specific place on the ground.

 When giving ground descriptions, describe the location as if you are viewing the location from the direction an aircraft would be traveling.

 Use easily understandable directions, such as north, south, east, west, 2 o’clock, 9 o’clock, left 20 degrees, right 45 degrees, etc.

 When giving directions, always give them in relation to the pilot’s perspective.

References:

NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide, PMS 461, NFES 1077 NWCG Fireline Handbook, PMS 410-1, NFES 0065

Safe and efficient aircraft operations are dependent on good communications.