Big Picture Extrication

Next week we will be starting a new "Minimum Company Standards" training series.  We will be taking a multifaceted approach combining vehicle extrication and vehicle fires.  For both subjects there will be a large emphasis on scene size up and patient care.

The importance of the scene size-up cannot be over emphasized.  A quality scene size-up sets the tone for the entire operation.

Size-up should begin the moment that the call is dispatched.  In the case of a vehicle accident, the dispatch information may include:

-Where the accident is located
-Number of vehicles involved
-Number of potential patients

From the information above you can begin your size-up.

First and foremost review the dispatch. We occasionally miss vital information as we are preparing to get on the apparatus.  Review the information on CAD to ensure that there was no dispatch information or updates missed.  

Next, know where you are going.  If you are familiar with your first due area and specifically where the accident has occurred you will be able consider potential hazards and begin to preplan for apparatus placement.

The number of vehicles and patients involved should immediately make you think "RESOURCES".  What am I going to need to ensure that this call is a success.

*This initial dispatch information should stimulate thought...but REMEMBER this information is often from a passerby with zero emergency service experience and may not accurately depict what you will find when you arrive on scene

As a crew, discuss some areas in your first due district that accidents are likely to occur and develop a plan to safely and effectively run an operation.

Brush/ Grass Fires

Spring is finally here and with it comes grass fire season.  Although the sense of urgency is generally lower with grass fires due to a reduced chance for loss of life or property, there are still real hazards that need to be considered.  

THE TEN STANDARD FIRE ORDERS

Fight fire aggressively but provide for safety first.

Initiate all action based on current and expected fire behavior. 

Recognize current weather conditions and obtain forecasts. 

Ensure instructions are given and understood.

Obtain current information on fire status.

Remain in communication with crew members and IC

Determine safety zones and escape routes.

Establish lookouts in potentially hazardous situations. Retain control at all times.

Stay alert, keep calm, think clearly, act decisively.

 Common Denominators of Fire Behavior on Tragedy Fires

1. Most incidents occur on smaller fires or on isolated portions of larger fires.

2. Most fires are innocent in appearance before the flareups or blowups. In some cas- es, tragedies have occurred during the mopup phase.

3. Flareups generally occur in deceptively light fuels.

4. Fires run uphill surprisingly fast in chimneys, gullies, and on steep slopes.

Other Considerations:

• Be proficient in the use of all brush fire equipment including brush pumps, indian packs, water cans and brush brooms

• Always fight the fire from the unburned side

• Pay attention to topography-fire can move surprisingly fast up hills and in gullies  

• Maintain Accountability in larger incidents

• Be aware of the surrounding, rocks and logs hidden in the tall brush present  trip and fall hazards that may result in a sprained ankle or broken foot

• Hydrate- On hot days start drinking as soon as you wake up to pre-hydrate

• Consider an ambulance for stand-by in high heat or large extended incidents

• Discuss water supply site options 

• Focus on wind direction and changing weather conditions

• Consider ground conditions (mud, swamp land and heavily wooded areas) that may inhibit suppression efforts

• Wear the proper PPE ( consider eye protection)

• As you make your way up the fire line periodically check behind you for rekindles

Platinum 600 On The Fire Ground

You are a leader...For those of you reading this training, you are a leader.  If you are working shift, or taking the time to be proactive and read this on your own time, you are a leader.  Being a leader means that the other members of the department are going to be looking to you for guidance and direction especially in the first 10 minutes of a structure fire operation.

Much like the platinum 600 is critical in patient care, the first 10 minutes are just as vital with fire ground operations.  The decisions that are made and the actions that are taken in the first 10 minutes will often determine the outcome of the fire operation.  As a leader in this department it is crucial that you not only understand the tactics for first due operations but are also proficient in each of the tasks associated with these tactics.

For this week we are going to be focusing on two man first due drills.  The purpose of this drill is to encompass all of the tasks that may be required of the first due engine.

• Dress out drill
• Hand Jack 200' of LDH
• Fully Extend 24' ladder to building  
• Deploy 200' Pre-Connect or Wye-Line
• Charge Line 
• Navigate hose line through the bay to mezz
• Save Rescue Randy from the mezz and bring outside 

Remember: Lead from the front and Inspire those Around You!

Platinum 600-Predicting Injuries

Daily we are asked to make life or death decisions on a moments notice.  We arrive on a scene, do a quick scene survey and develop an IAP all within the first minute.  These decisions that we make and the actions that we take within the first 10 minutes may very well mean the difference between life and death for those involved.  With that being said the importance of an accurate scene size up cannot be overstated.  One component of a quality scene size up is predicting potential internal injuries based on the mechanism, and treating the patient according.

MVA Size Up
Provides Clues to:
-Type of Injury
-Forces Involved

3 Impacts
Car vs Car or Object
Person vs Interior of Car
Internal Organs vs Other Solid Structures in the Body

The following video provides invaluable information about injury prediction and the platinum 600.  Watch the video and discuss how we can utilize the information on our future scenes.

Video Link:  Platinum 600

In addition to providing valuable information you also can get .5 credits if you get an account to the American CME site and take a short quiz.