R.I.T. RapidInterventionTeam Mission Statement “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends”(John 15:13)

R.I.T.R.I.T.

Rapid Rapid

InterventionIntervention

TeamTeam

Mission StatementMission Statement

““Greater love hath no man than this, Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his that a man lay down his life for his

friends”(John 15:13)friends”(John 15:13)

• ““Influence Of Tragedy”Influence Of Tragedy” • There Is No Greater Influence Of There Is No Greater Influence Of

Change In The Fire Service Than Change In The Fire Service Than A Line Of Duty Death Of A A Line Of Duty Death Of A Firefighter. Firefighter.

• Yet, There Is No Greater Tragedy Yet, There Is No Greater Tragedy Than That Of A Fallen Than That Of A Fallen Firefighter Whose Death Firefighter Whose Death Prompted The Passage Of A Prompted The Passage Of A Safety Policy Which May Have Safety Policy Which May Have Prevented His Death….. Prevented His Death…..

• Author UnknownAuthor Unknown

R.I.T.R.I.T.

““You have got to be kidding You have got to be kidding me, RIT!”me, RIT!”

• 10 Most Common Responses:10 Most Common Responses:• 10) “You have got to be kidding me, R.I.T.!10) “You have got to be kidding me, R.I.T.!• 9) “ What, you want us to stand here?”9) “ What, you want us to stand here?”• 8) “ If you let us get out of R.I.T., we’ll put this 8) “ If you let us get out of R.I.T., we’ll put this

fire out!” fire out!”• 7) “Who’s idea was this”7) “Who’s idea was this”• 6) “You go,we go (nowhere).”6) “You go,we go (nowhere).”

• 5) “Ya, sure, we’ll stand here and do R.I.T, or 5) “Ya, sure, we’ll stand here and do R.I.T, or Rectal Insertion of Thumb.”Rectal Insertion of Thumb.”

• 4) “We waited all year for a fire, and now we 4) “We waited all year for a fire, and now we get to watch it from the front yard.”get to watch it from the front yard.”

• 3) “ Leave the R.I.T. for the outstanding 3) “ Leave the R.I.T. for the outstanding firefighters`!firefighters`!

• 2) “We can be the R.I.T for rehab!”2) “We can be the R.I.T for rehab!”• 1) “Wow, we get to herd sheep in the front lawn 1) “Wow, we get to herd sheep in the front lawn

again!”again!”

““You have got to be kidding You have got to be kidding me, RIT!”me, RIT!”

ClassroomClassroom

• Definition, Purpose, ConceptsDefinition, Purpose, Concepts• Why do we have R.I.T.? Why do we have R.I.T.? • Case StudiesCase Studies• Mental conditioningMental conditioning• Deployment/Equipment for R.I.T. operationsDeployment/Equipment for R.I.T. operations• Preparing for hands onPreparing for hands on• Hands on practical evolutionsHands on practical evolutions

DefinitionDefinition

– Rapid Intervention Teams are crews of at Rapid Intervention Teams are crews of at least two members who may be called upon least two members who may be called upon to supply rescue techniques to other to supply rescue techniques to other firefighters operating a the scene of an firefighters operating a the scene of an emergency. These crews will have at least emergency. These crews will have at least the same level of training and protective the same level of training and protective equipment as those operating at the scene.equipment as those operating at the scene.

• A function of CommandA function of Command

• Assembled in teams of 2 or moreAssembled in teams of 2 or more

• Bring rescue equipment to CommandBring rescue equipment to Command

• Perform own size-up of scenePerform own size-up of scene

• May do other functions as long as May do other functions as long as available immediatelyavailable immediately

• Most important assignment given to a Most important assignment given to a companycompany– Protect and rescue firefightersProtect and rescue firefighters

Rapid Intervention TeamsRapid Intervention TeamsRapid Intervention TeamsRapid Intervention Teams

• Utilized at any time firefighters are at Utilized at any time firefighters are at riskrisk– structural firefightingstructural firefighting– Is to locate and rescue lost, trapped, and/or injured Is to locate and rescue lost, trapped, and/or injured

firefighters on the fire ground.firefighters on the fire ground.

– hazardous materials responsehazardous materials response– technical rescuetechnical rescue– water rescue or recoverywater rescue or recovery

• during attack and hazard operationsduring attack and hazard operations



• PurposePurpose– Provide for the establishment of a Rapid Provide for the establishment of a Rapid

Intervention Team (RIT) within the Incident Intervention Team (RIT) within the Incident Management SystemManagement System

• Essential function of COMMANDEssential function of COMMAND– Allows for dedicated company assigned to this functionAllows for dedicated company assigned to this function– Meets current federal and local regulatory Meets current federal and local regulatory

requirementsrequirements– One of the last industries to apply rescue of our own to One of the last industries to apply rescue of our own to

work placework place» Work Place = Emergency SceneWork Place = Emergency Scene

Concepts of R.I.T.Concepts of R.I.T.

““The Concept is one of The Concept is one of AttitudeAttitude””

Concepts of R.I.T.Concepts of R.I.T.• Attitude is everything!!!Attitude is everything!!!

– It doesn’t take a 500,000 dollar squad to begin thinking It doesn’t take a 500,000 dollar squad to begin thinking and ACTING…and ACTING…

– Do you come dressed for the party?Do you come dressed for the party?

– Firefighters are killed surrounded by 1/2” sheetrock.Firefighters are killed surrounded by 1/2” sheetrock.

– ““Don’t give up! Mentality is essential!”Don’t give up! Mentality is essential!”

– Who do you want coming to get you?Who do you want coming to get you?

– Rapid Intervention CrewRapid Intervention Crew

•Size-up SkillsSize-up Skills

•Building ConstructionBuilding Construction

•Fire Spread and BehaviorFire Spread and Behavior

•CommunicationsCommunications

•Aggressive “Can-do” spiritAggressive “Can-do” spirit

•Use of multiple types of tools and equipmentUse of multiple types of tools and equipment

•Ability to act fast under poor conditionsAbility to act fast under poor conditions

Personal Skills Required for Personal Skills Required for RIT AssignmentRIT Assignment

• Must be familiar with all aspects of Must be familiar with all aspects of assignmentassignment– Fireground is not the place to learnFireground is not the place to learn– Preparation in training will begin processPreparation in training will begin process

• Ability to function as a teamAbility to function as a team– Identification of key tasks and positionsIdentification of key tasks and positions

Team Skills Required for RIT Team Skills Required for RIT AssignmentAssignment

Why have this school?Why have this school?

• Firefighter Injuries 1995 - 94,500Firefighter Injuries 1995 - 94,500• 50,640 Injuries on the Fire Ground50,640 Injuries on the Fire Ground• Problems:Problems:

– Less fires but same number of deathsLess fires but same number of deaths

– Were described as “routine fires”Were described as “routine fires”

– Several “things” went wrong.Several “things” went wrong.

– Common factors involved.Common factors involved.


• 43.6% Fire Ground / 40 of 9443.6% Fire Ground / 40 of 94– 13 Heart Attack13 Heart Attack– 8 Asphyxiation8 Asphyxiation– 7 Crushing7 Crushing– 5 Internal Trauma5 Internal Trauma– 3 Burns3 Burns– 1 Heat Stroke1 Heat Stroke– 1 Drown1 Drown– 1 Asthma Attack1 Asthma Attack– 1 Shot1 Shot

43.3% caught or trapped43.3% caught or trapped

Fatality Statistics 1997NFDC

• Declining number of structure fires.Declining number of structure fires.• Less fire ground experience.Less fire ground experience.• PPE too protective?PPE too protective?• Lost or separated from teamLost or separated from team• Hotter FiresHotter Fires• Malfunctioning SCBAMalfunctioning SCBA• Inactivated PASS deviceInactivated PASS device• Lack of knowledge of self-rescue techniquesLack of knowledge of self-rescue techniques


• Failure to read the building - # 1 overall factorFailure to read the building - # 1 overall factor– Lack of, or incomplete size upLack of, or incomplete size up

– Lack of knowing building construction and fire Lack of knowing building construction and fire behaviorbehavior

• No Pass deviceNo Pass device– NFPA reports 1984-94, 173 FF fatalitiesNFPA reports 1984-94, 173 FF fatalities

– 160 with no pass device160 with no pass device

– 6 with pass not turned on6 with pass not turned on

– only 7 with pass device turned ononly 7 with pass device turned on

Common Factors Contributing ToCommon Factors Contributing ToFirefighter Injury & FatalityFirefighter Injury & Fatality

• Heavy Fire on lower levelsHeavy Fire on lower levels– Walk out basementsWalk out basements

– Floor weakened or holes burnt throughFloor weakened or holes burnt through

• Communications - Information between IC & Communications - Information between IC & CompaniesCompanies– Hackensack, NJ 5 fatalities, called for help over 30 Hackensack, NJ 5 fatalities, called for help over 30

minutes, 17 minutes after collapse last call for help.minutes, 17 minutes after collapse last call for help.

– Indianapolis, called for help 7 times in 5 minutes.Indianapolis, called for help 7 times in 5 minutes.

WHY DON’T WE HEAR?WHY DON’T WE HEAR?

Common Factors Contributing ToCommon Factors Contributing ToFirefighter Injury & Fatality (Cont.)Firefighter Injury & Fatality (Cont.)

• AccountabilityAccountability– # 1 factor in accountability is the officer # 1 factor in accountability is the officer

knowing where his/her people are. knowing where his/her people are. – 25% of all firefighter fatalities are due to a 25% of all firefighter fatalities are due to a

lack of accountabilitylack of accountability


• Hotter fires - Since 1970 fires have tripled the BTU Hotter fires - Since 1970 fires have tripled the BTU output.output.– Iowa (Royers) L X W X H / 100 = GPMIowa (Royers) L X W X H / 100 = GPM– NFA L X W / 3 = GPMNFA L X W / 3 = GPM

• Energy Efficient WindowsEnergy Efficient Windows• Average apartment has over 2500 lbs... Of plasticAverage apartment has over 2500 lbs... Of plastic• Temperature inversion at flashover - 1100 at ceiling Temperature inversion at flashover - 1100 at ceiling

1700 at floor.1700 at floor.• Deteriorating buildingsDeteriorating buildings• Light weight and truss constructionLight weight and truss construction

– Light weight truss can fail as soon as 4 minutesLight weight truss can fail as soon as 4 minutes


85 - 90% of Firefighters have 85 - 90% of Firefighters have

never practiced never practiced

Firefighter RescueFirefighter Rescue


General InformationGeneral Information

• On the average 100 firefighters will die in On the average 100 firefighters will die in the line of duty.the line of duty.

• 27% Trauma related27% Trauma related

• 20% from asphyxia and burns20% from asphyxia and burns

• Firefighters under age 35 are more likely Firefighters under age 35 are more likely to be killed by traumatic injuries than to be killed by traumatic injuries than from medical cases like heart attacks.from medical cases like heart attacks.


• 57% of deaths were members of 57% of deaths were members of volunteer or combination departments.volunteer or combination departments.


• NFPA 1500 and 1561 have established NFPA 1500 and 1561 have established the basic terms of what Rapid the basic terms of what Rapid Intervention involves.Intervention involves.

• NFPA 1500 states, “that rapid NFPA 1500 states, “that rapid intervention teams are essentially risk intervention teams are essentially risk management tools.”management tools.”

NFPA 1500 Firefighter OccupationalHealth and Safety

6-5 Rapid Intervention for Rescue ofMembers

- Provide for rescue of membersoperating at emergency scenes

- RIT shall consist of at least two fullyequipped members

- Flexible structure based on incidenttype

- May perform other functions but beready for immediate deployment

- Expand with size- One crew min. for special operations

NFPA 1561 Incident ManagementSystem

4-1 Incident Command

- Shall provide personnel for therescue of individuals operating atemergency incidents if the needarises. Must consist of at least 2members and be available for rescueof personnel if necessary.

NFPA Requirements for RITNFPA Requirements for RIT


• According to Section 6-2.1.1,”The According to Section 6-2.1.1,”The concept of risk management shall be concept of risk management shall be utilized on the basis of the following utilized on the basis of the following principles”:principles”:

• (a) Activities that present a significant (a) Activities that present a significant risk to safety of members shall be limited risk to safety of members shall be limited to situations where there is the potential to situations where there is the potential to save endangered lives.to save endangered lives.

• (b) Activities that are routinely employed (b) Activities that are routinely employed to protect property shall be recognized as to protect property shall be recognized as inherent risks to the safety of members, inherent risks to the safety of members, and actions shall be taken to reduce or and actions shall be taken to reduce or avoid these risks.avoid these risks.

• (c) No risk to the safety of members shall (c) No risk to the safety of members shall be acceptable when there is no possibility be acceptable when there is no possibility to save lives or property.to save lives or property.


OSHA 1910.134 (“2 in 2 out rule”)OSHA 1910.134 (“2 in 2 out rule”)• A Rapid Intervention Team should fulfill the A Rapid Intervention Team should fulfill the

requirements as specified in the 29 CFR Part requirements as specified in the 29 CFR Part 1910.134 regulation1910.134 regulation– A minimum of four individuals is required before A minimum of four individuals is required before

entry into the hazard area (interior operations) may entry into the hazard area (interior operations) may beginbegin

• Two of the four must be present and ready outside the Two of the four must be present and ready outside the hazard areahazard area

• Must be identically equippedMust be identically equipped

– Crews in hazard area must remain in either voice, Crews in hazard area must remain in either voice, visual or tethered contact with each other at all visual or tethered contact with each other at all timestimes

• Radio may not be substituted for direct visual contactRadio may not be substituted for direct visual contact

• Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Memphis, Tennessee

• Denver, Colorado

• Columbus, Ohio

• Burr Ridge, IL– Other of note not included in this

presentation• Hackensack, NJ

• Seattle, WA

• Philadelphia, PA

• New York, NY

Case HistoriesCase Histories

Must Know Info.

Case Histories Case Histories Pittsburgh 3 Firefighters Killed Pittsburgh 3 Firefighters Killed

Three Pittsburgh firefighters died on Feb 14, 1995 died at a dwelling fire after they were unable to escape the interior of a building. All three firefighters were together in one room and had exhausted their air supplies.

- 3 other firefighter were rescued from same room, accountability did not identify all who

were lost.

- All 3 had PASS devices that were not activated

- No RIT available to rescue lost and trapped firefighters

Case HistoriesCase HistoriesMemphis High-Rise Kills 2 Memphis High-Rise Kills 2

FirefightersFirefighters2 Memphis Firefighters will killed on April 11, 1994 in a high-rise fire. Both firefighters died when trapped on the fire floor of this building. 1 firefighter became trapped by cable TV wire which had fallen from the ceiling area and wrapped around his SCBA bottle.

- Both firefighters became separated from each other and ran out of air. PASS devices

were worn but never activated.

- Rescue crews lacked understanding of position of trapped firefighters and crawled right past one member

Case HistoriesCase HistoriesDenver Office Fire Kills 1 FirefighterDenver Office Fire Kills 1 Firefighter

A Denver firefighter was killed on September 28, A Denver firefighter was killed on September 28, 1982 when he became trapped inside the 1982 when he became trapped inside the structure by the failure of lightweight structure by the failure of lightweight construction members. Numerous attempts at construction members. Numerous attempts at rescue from a confined space through a window rescue from a confined space through a window frame were unsuccessful.frame were unsuccessful.

- Firefighter was separated from his crew - Firefighter was separated from his crew when when collapse occurred.collapse occurred.

- Rescue crews were unable to assist - Rescue crews were unable to assist firefighter firefighter through window.through window.

- Limited visibility and victim position were - Limited visibility and victim position were factors factors in the rescue attempt. in the rescue attempt.

Case HistoriesCase HistoriesColumbus Commercial Fire Kills 1 FirefighterColumbus Commercial Fire Kills 1 Firefighter

A firefighter was killed when he fell through a hole in the floor of a mixed commercial occupancy on July 25, 1987. This firefighter was located early into his entrapment and despite many heroic efforts to rescue him, firefighters were unable to remove him from the hole he had fallen through.

- Numerous attempts to pull and lift firefighter

were unsuccessful

- Self-rescue techniques did not work due to

altered mental status

- Crews had to abandon structure with firefighter

still trapped inside

Case HistoriesCase HistoriesPleasantview Firefighter Killed in Pleasantview Firefighter Killed in

Single Family DwellingSingle Family DwellingOn December 6, 1989, Lt. Joseph Samec died while battling a residential house fire in Burr Ridge, IL. Lt. Samec and his crew tried to rapidly exit the structure due to heavy involvement of the basement when the floor collapsed.

- Rescue attempts included face to face and holding of arms/hands were unsuccessful.

- Lt. Samec breached two walls in his attempt to escape but failed to make the stairs and

was found face down on the staircase.

Case Studies - SummaryCase Studies - Summary• May Joe Samec, John Nance, Mark

Langvardt, and the 100 other firefighters who have make the SUPREME SACRAFICE every year rest in peace forever.– Their memory serves as a catalyst for how and

why we train– We must learn for these tragedies and every

“near-miss” that occurs– We must revisit these occurrences as often as

possible

R.I.T. is not rapidR.I.T. is not rapid

• Phoenix Fire Department study:Phoenix Fire Department study:• Results:Results:• -rescue crew ready state 2.50 minutes-rescue crew ready state 2.50 minutes• -Mayday to R.I.C.entry 3.03 minutes-Mayday to R.I.C.entry 3.03 minutes• -R.I.C. contact with downed firefighter -R.I.C. contact with downed firefighter

5.82 minutes.5.82 minutes.• Total time for each crew inside 12.33 Total time for each crew inside 12.33

minutes.minutes.

• The drills showed that a 3000psi bottle The drills showed that a 3000psi bottle was good for 13.09 to 24.31 minutes of was good for 13.09 to 24.31 minutes of air.air.

• The average time was 18.7 minutes.The average time was 18.7 minutes.• Average time from mayday to removal Average time from mayday to removal

was 21 minutes.was 21 minutes.• R.I.C. teams were running out of air R.I.C. teams were running out of air

during the removal phase.during the removal phase.

Phoenix Fire Department study:Phoenix Fire Department study:

Front of Southwest Supermarket, Front of Southwest Supermarket, March 14, 2001. [Photos courtesy of March 14, 2001. [Photos courtesy of the Phoenix (AZ) Fire Department.]the Phoenix (AZ) Fire Department.]

FEMAFEMA

• States in the special report: “Rapid States in the special report: “Rapid Intervention Teams And How to Avoid Needing Intervention Teams And How to Avoid Needing Them”.Them”.

• ““Not every firefighter will be assigned to a Not every firefighter will be assigned to a R.I.T., but all members of the fire department R.I.T., but all members of the fire department should be instructed on the purpose, policies, should be instructed on the purpose, policies, and rules governing a R.I.T. and the conditions and rules governing a R.I.T. and the conditions which it would be deployed.”which it would be deployed.”

ReviewReview

• Three consistent ratios:Three consistent ratios:

• -It takes 12 firefighters to rescue “one”.-It takes 12 firefighters to rescue “one”.

• -One in five R.I.T. members will get -One in five R.I.T. members will get into some type of trouble themselves.into some type of trouble themselves.

• - A 3000 p.s.i. SCBA bottle has 18.7 - A 3000 p.s.i. SCBA bottle has 18.7 minutes of air (plus or minus 30%).minutes of air (plus or minus 30%).

March 2004 - Ebenezer Baptist March 2004 - Ebenezer Baptist Church - Pittsburgh, PAChurch - Pittsburgh, PA

The fire continues to The fire continues to consume the church roof consume the church roof and Pittsburgh fire crews and Pittsburgh fire crews attempt to extinguish the attempt to extinguish the fire. fire.

As fire consumes the church roof, As fire consumes the church roof, Safety Chief Charles Brace, (first white Safety Chief Charles Brace, (first white helmet from the left), observes helmet from the left), observes operations trying to keep Pittsburgh operations trying to keep Pittsburgh firefighters safe during this dangerous firefighters safe during this dangerous fire. fire.

March 2004 - Ebenezer Baptist March 2004 - Ebenezer Baptist Church - Pittsburgh, PA Church - Pittsburgh, PA

Heavy fire erupts from the roof of the historic Ebenezer Baptist church as Incident Heavy fire erupts from the roof of the historic Ebenezer Baptist church as Incident Commander Deputy Chief David Manfredo (center white helmet) directs crews in Commander Deputy Chief David Manfredo (center white helmet) directs crews in operations. Manfredo was seriously injured when the bell tower steeple collapsed striking operations. Manfredo was seriously injured when the bell tower steeple collapsed striking him with bricks and debris. him with bricks and debris.


Immediately after the Immediately after the steeple collapse, Pittsburgh steeple collapse, Pittsburgh firefighters rush to the aid firefighters rush to the aid of their fallen comrades. In of their fallen comrades. In the lower left, Deputy Chief the lower left, Deputy Chief David Manfredo, who was David Manfredo, who was the fireground Incident the fireground Incident Commander, is seen lying Commander, is seen lying unconscious after being unconscious after being struck by falling bricks and struck by falling bricks and debris. He was one of the debris. He was one of the more seriously injured more seriously injured firefighters and had to firefighters and had to undergo facial surgery. undergo facial surgery.


Pittsburgh Pittsburgh firefighters tend firefighters tend to another fallen to another fallen comrade that comrade that was buried in was buried in exterior bricks exterior bricks and debris. and debris.

This is the This is the view of the view of the Ebenezer Ebenezer church after church after the bell the bell tower had tower had collapsed collapsed killing 2 killing 2 firefighters firefighters and injuring and injuring 28. 28.


• This cartoon was originally featured in the Tuesday, March 16, 2004 Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

• Created by Randy Bish, this cartoon is an excellent tribute to the sacrifice that Battalion Chief Charles Brace and Master Firefighter Richard Stefanakis made fighting the Saturday, March 13, 2004 fire at the Ebenezeer Baptist Church in Pittsburgh, PA. Both firefighters lost their lives when the bell tower completely collapsed onto them.

• A special thanks goes to Randy Bish for creating this cartoon which honors the lives of Battalion Chief Charles Brace and Master Firefighter Richard Stefanakis. We appreciate his permission to allow us to post it on RapidIntervention.com.

• Cartoon courtesy of Randy Bish, Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

March 2004 - Ebenezer Baptist March 2004 - Ebenezer Baptist Church - Pittsburgh, PAChurch - Pittsburgh, PA

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

A member of the USAR team called to the scene salutes as the body of one of the fallen firefighters is removed from the debris.

http://imageevent.com/ralf/pitt/firefighters?z=2&c=4&n=1&m=24&w=4&x=0&p=13

http://imageevent.com/ralf/pitt/firefighters?z=2&c=4&n=1&m=24&w=4&x=0&p=14

http://www.naemt.com/

Mental ConditioningMental Conditioning

• Firefighter Survival TacticsFirefighter Survival TacticsLearning How to Stay Out Of Trouble:

• Lets take at look at these five tactics. • I. Staying Oriented • II. Staying Low • III. Monitoring Conditions • a) Visually keep track of the smoke density and fire.• b) Tactilely monitoring heat conditions • IV. Monitoring the Radio • V. Staying Calm

• Before Rapid Intervention even begins, firefighters must posses the ability to begin to remove themselves from mechanisms that have trapped them– Wires

– Debris

– Occupancy

Self Rescue ConceptsSelf Rescue Concepts

Skills Necessary for Self RescueSkills Necessary for Self Rescue• Knowledge of Building ConstructionKnowledge of Building Construction• Fire Spread and Fire BehaviorFire Spread and Fire Behavior• How to Call for HelpHow to Call for Help

– Mayday, Emergency TrafficMayday, Emergency Traffic

– Where are you in buildingWhere are you in building

• How to find the FASTEST way outHow to find the FASTEST way out– Turnout gear protects for only seconds in flashoverTurnout gear protects for only seconds in flashover

– Low air means time to get outLow air means time to get out

• No more primary, secondary or firefighting No more primary, secondary or firefighting operationsoperations

Concepts of Firefighter Rescue (Cont.)Concepts of Firefighter Rescue (Cont.)• Anticipate problems - Everyone must be looking!!!Anticipate problems - Everyone must be looking!!!

• Read the buildingRead the building

• 360 degree survey360 degree survey

• Throw laddersThrow ladders

– EngineersEngineers – Stand by companiesStand by companies

• Clean out windowsClean out windows

• Think Forcible EXIT Tools.Think Forcible EXIT Tools.

Concepts of Firefighter Rescue (Cont.)Concepts of Firefighter Rescue (Cont.)• Ensure Operation of PASS when dismounting Ensure Operation of PASS when dismounting

apparatusapparatus

• Watch your airWatch your air– Point of no returnPoint of no return

– SCBA EmergenciesSCBA Emergencies• Consider level of activityConsider level of activity

• Listen to the radio. (Lapel Mic’s)Listen to the radio. (Lapel Mic’s)

• Communicate to ICCommunicate to IC– Declare “MayDay” w/ CO. I.D. and best known locationDeclare “MayDay” w/ CO. I.D. and best known location

– Activate PASSActivate PASS

– Turn on Flash LightsTurn on Flash Lights

– Inform IC of noises heard, ie. Saws, Fans, Crews, etc.Inform IC of noises heard, ie. Saws, Fans, Crews, etc.

– Tap or Beat on SurroundingsTap or Beat on Surroundings

Concepts of Firefighter Rescue (Cont.)Concepts of Firefighter Rescue (Cont.)• Ensure Operation of PASS when dismounting Ensure Operation of PASS when dismounting

apparatusapparatus

• Watch your airWatch your air– Point of no returnPoint of no return

– SCBA EmergenciesSCBA Emergencies• Consider level of activityConsider level of activity

• Listen to the radio. (Lapel Mic’s)Listen to the radio. (Lapel Mic’s)

• Communicate to ICCommunicate to IC– Declare “MayDay” w/ CO. I.D. and best known locationDeclare “MayDay” w/ CO. I.D. and best known location

– Activate PASSActivate PASS

– Turn on Flash LightsTurn on Flash Lights

– Inform IC of noises heard, ie. Saws, Fans, Crews, etc.Inform IC of noises heard, ie. Saws, Fans, Crews, etc.

– Tap or Beat on SurroundingsTap or Beat on Surroundings

• MAY DAY:• The U.S. Navy is an aggressive

organization and it continually drills on “Abandon Ship”.

• Fire Departments should regularly drill on getting out of buildings.

• May Day: universal distress signal and should trigger immediate radio silence.


• Managing YOUR MAY DAY • Orient Yourself • Communicate with Your Crew • Alert Command • Solve the Problem • Activate Your PASS • Solve the Problem • If You Can't Solve The Problem


• MAY DAY Training Sessions:MAY DAY Training Sessions:• Find a Hose line and Follow to Safety Find a Hose line and Follow to Safety • Alert Command & activate PASS Device Alert Command & activate PASS Device • Additional Training... Additional Training... • Every firefighter, and department, should participate in Get Out Every firefighter, and department, should participate in Get Out

Alive and Rapid Intervention Team training. Sending firefighters Alive and Rapid Intervention Team training. Sending firefighters into structures without providing them training to respond to into structures without providing them training to respond to their own emergencies should not be allowed. Sending, or their own emergencies should not be allowed. Sending, or assigning, rapid intervention teams that have not trained to assigning, rapid intervention teams that have not trained to perform rapid intervention skills is like not having a rapid perform rapid intervention skills is like not having a rapid intervention team at all. intervention team at all.


• Lessons learned: • For the MAYDAY call to be completed it must be received by

someone in communications, then communications must repeat back to the firefighter the information reported. This is the only way the person calling the MAYDAY will know their message was received correctly.

• The hands free feature of the radio is useful, but if the mike is turned facing the firefighter's coat the message will become muffled.

• The firefighter must speak loudly, clearly, and distinctly to be heard and understood.

• If LUNAR is not the normal day to day communications sequence for talking on the radio it may not come naturally to firefighters under MAYDAY conditions.


• In some cases the radio EIB did not reset correctly. The next time the EIB was pushed the three beeps sounded indicating the open mike was on but there was no transmission.

• It was learned that AACOFD communications could reactivate the captured channel and open the mike for an additional 20-seconds and repeat opening it as needed.

• The AACOFD is working on purchasing user-friendly firefighting gloves. This will help in using the radio.

• Situational awareness can be compromised very quickly in a zero visibility environment.

• The fact that you decided to call a MAYDAY can tax your higher cognitive thinking, like where you are and what you are doing, which are important facts for the RIC.


In or around the structure or incident should attempt to In or around the structure or incident should attempt to

perform the following functions:perform the following functions:

1.1. On the companies portable radio, declare a “On the companies portable radio, declare a “May Day”May Day” along with along with your company ID and location or the best known location to the your company ID and location or the best known location to the I.C.I.C.

2. 2. Activate PASS devices to assist rescue crews in their search.Activate PASS devices to assist rescue crews in their search.

3.3. Point flashlight beams in the direction of rescue crews or straight Point flashlight beams in the direction of rescue crews or straight in the air to alert rescuers of your location.in the air to alert rescuers of your location.

4.4. Keep the I.C. informed to noises heard to aid in their search, i.e., Keep the I.C. informed to noises heard to aid in their search, i.e., overhead ventilation efforts with saws, etc.overhead ventilation efforts with saws, etc.

PROCEDUREPROCEDUREFirefighters who are Missing, Firefighters who are Missing,

Lost, or Trapped….Lost, or Trapped….

5.5. Kick legs or move arms to attract rescuers.Kick legs or move arms to attract rescuers.

6.6. Tap or beat on the surroundings.Tap or beat on the surroundings.

7.7. Shout for help.Shout for help.

8.8. Take every measure necessary to increase survivability.Take every measure necessary to increase survivability.

PROCEDUDRE cont.PROCEDUDRE cont.

PROCEDUREPROCEDUREIncident Command’sIncident Command’s

ResponsibilityResponsibility

I.C. shall perform the following functions:I.C. shall perform the following functions:1.1. Ask Dispatch Services to send out an alert tone on the Emergency Ask Dispatch Services to send out an alert tone on the Emergency

Scene channel to get the attention of all companies in the “Hot Scene channel to get the attention of all companies in the “Hot Zone.”Zone.”

2.2. Announce emergency traffic.Announce emergency traffic.

3.3. Declare a “Declare a “May Day”May Day” on the fire ground to all companies on the on the fire ground to all companies on the radio and advise them of the following:radio and advise them of the following:

A.A. What company members are missing, lost, or trappedWhat company members are missing, lost, or trapped

B.B. How many firefighters are in the missing companyHow many firefighters are in the missing company

C.C. The firefighter’s last known location on the fire groundThe firefighter’s last known location on the fire ground

PROCEDURE Cont.PROCEDURE Cont.

4.4. Assign the RIC to initiate a rescue at the last known Assign the RIC to initiate a rescue at the last known location of the missing firefighters.location of the missing firefighters.

5.5. Call for the next greater alarm level.Call for the next greater alarm level.

6.6. Activate the emergency withdrawal procedure, Activate the emergency withdrawal procedure, if if necessary.necessary.

7.7. Assign companies to assist or support the rescue effort.Assign companies to assist or support the rescue effort.

8.8. Conduct a PAR of all companies to confirm the Conduct a PAR of all companies to confirm the number of missing, lost, or trapped firefighters.number of missing, lost, or trapped firefighters.

MAY DAYMAY DAY

• In 2000, the Chesterfield, VA Fire Department In 2000, the Chesterfield, VA Fire Department conducted a lieutenant's test. Part of the testing conducted a lieutenant's test. Part of the testing included a field activity. included a field activity.

• Seventeen candidates for lieutenant were taken to a Seventeen candidates for lieutenant were taken to a large abandoned building, 80’ x 120’ with an open floor large abandoned building, 80’ x 120’ with an open floor plan. plan.

• One at a time, in full turnouts, SCBA with less the One at a time, in full turnouts, SCBA with less the 700psi, portable radio, and Nomex hood on backwards 700psi, portable radio, and Nomex hood on backwards covering their face mask, each candidate was taken into covering their face mask, each candidate was taken into the building and told the following. the building and told the following.

• "You are the OIC of the first engine operating at a fire "You are the OIC of the first engine operating at a fire in a Shopping Mall. in a Shopping Mall.

MAY DAYMAY DAY

• You and your crew are stretching a 1 3/4 hand line at the top of the escalator on the second floor and you encounter "cold" smoke and zero visibility. While maintaining voice contact with your crew, you have been searching for the fire. You no longer have voice contact with you crew and are now lost and disoriented. This is not a training scenario, your life depends on your actions!" (By Heather Casey. Test asks: Can you Survive? Firehouse.Com News, Sept. 28, 2000).

MAY DAYMAY DAY

• The correct actions to take were: The correct actions to take were:

• Declare an emergency on the radio Declare an emergency on the radio

• Activate the emergency button Activate the emergency button

• Announce “Mayday, Mayday, Mayday, Announce “Mayday, Mayday, Mayday, Emergency Traffic” Emergency Traffic”

• Activate the PASS device Activate the PASS device

• Successfully merge with the RIT Successfully merge with the RIT

MAY DAYMAY DAY

• Of the 17 candidates, only four took the Of the 17 candidates, only four took the correct action immediately. The fastest correct action immediately. The fastest times to complete the tasks were four to times to complete the tasks were four to five minutes. Some of the candidates five minutes. Some of the candidates never called Mayday (Personal never called Mayday (Personal communications Capt. Dave Daniels, communications Capt. Dave Daniels, Chesterfield FD Sept. 25, 2001).Chesterfield FD Sept. 25, 2001).

• Survey Results 339 Respondents

• MAYDAY DECISION PARAMETERS: SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING DETACHED, 1 or 2 STORY WITH OR WITHOUT BASEMENT* IDLH ENVIRONMENT SCBA IN USE:

MAY DAYMAY DAY

A firefighter must call a mayday for themselves under these conditions.

% said YES Possible Mayday Conditions

98% Tangled, Pinned, or Stuck; low air alarm activation, Mayday

94% Fall through roof, Mayday

92%Tangled, Pinned, or Stuck and do not extricate self in 60 seconds, Mayday

89% Caught in flashover, Mayday

88% Fall through floor, Mayday

82%Zero visibility, no contact with hose or lifeline, do not know direction to exit, Mayday

69%Primary exit blocked by fire or collapse, not at secondary exit in 30 seconds, Mayday

69%Low air alarm activation, not at exit (door or window) in 30 seconds, Mayday

58% Cannot find exit (door or window) in 60 seconds, Mayday

RIT: DispatchRIT: Dispatch

– IC should establish the RIT’S whenever FD IC should establish the RIT’S whenever FD personnel are required to operate under personnel are required to operate under hazardous conditions.hazardous conditions.

– The composition and structure of RIT The composition and structure of RIT should be flexible based on the size and should be flexible based on the size and complexity of operations. The IC shall complexity of operations. The IC shall evaluate the situation and risks to operating evaluate the situation and risks to operating teams and shall provide more teams teams and shall provide more teams commensurate with the needs of the commensurate with the needs of the situationsituation

• In the early stages of an accident, the In the early stages of an accident, the RIT shall be either:RIT shall be either:– On scene personnel designated and On scene personnel designated and

dedicated as RITdedicated as RIT– On scene personnel performing other On scene personnel performing other

functions but ready to redeploy to perform functions but ready to redeploy to perform RIT functionsRIT functions

• As the incident expands in size or As the incident expands in size or complexity, the RIT’s shall be on scene complexity, the RIT’s shall be on scene personnel dedicated to that functionpersonnel dedicated to that function


• ReportingReporting– Companies designated as RIT will bypass Companies designated as RIT will bypass

staging, and report directly to the ICstaging, and report directly to the IC– Companies designated as RIT must park Companies designated as RIT must park

their apparatus so as not to interfere with their apparatus so as not to interfere with fireground operationsfireground operations



• If used for other tactical assignments, the RIT must be replaced by another team

• If the need for rescue is diminished, the RIT may be assigned to other tasks

Rapid Intervention TeamsRapid Intervention TeamsRapid Intervention TeamsRapid Intervention Teams• Respond to any firefighter reported in Respond to any firefighter reported in

distressdistress

• Assess the need for ground laddersAssess the need for ground ladders

• Monitor radio and maintain contact with Monitor radio and maintain contact with IC for quick response if neededIC for quick response if needed

• Assess where ff personnel are located in Assess where ff personnel are located in the structure and any special tasksthe structure and any special tasks

• Size up structure, if possible, walk bldg.Size up structure, if possible, walk bldg.

• Appropriate tools carried by membersAppropriate tools carried by members

THE RIC OFFICER: ENROUTETHE RIC OFFICER: ENROUTE

• Officer has a different role!

• Responding for firefighter rescue, not suppression.

• The chief officers must have high expectations of their RIC Officers

Equipment For R.I.T. OperationsEquipment For R.I.T. Operations

Suggested Equipment for Self-Survival

Personal EquipmentPersonal Equipment

Should be available to EACH firefighter

Equipment For R.I.T. OperationsEquipment For R.I.T. Operations

Flat head axe/halligan tool Sledge hammer or maul Search rope, 150’

minimum Portable saws Hand lights Ground ladders Oxygen/EMS Portable radios SCBA complete SCBA spare bottles

• Key word is RAPID. Don’t overload the Key word is RAPID. Don’t overload the personnel. Equipment must be available personnel. Equipment must be available and R.I.T.’s have priority to use it.and R.I.T.’s have priority to use it.

$5.00 - $10.00

Cable TV, Phone, Ceiling Support, Flex Duct

• Building Dimension– Occupancy– Construction Type– Placement of windows, doors, escapes, porches,

etc.

• Tactics– Offensive, Defensive, Defensive to Offensive– Command Operations in place– Ladders and Truck Operations– Time of Operations

RIT Size-up SkillsRIT Size-up Skills

Fire Eng. Jan 1998, R. Lasky, B. Hoff

• Check with rehab officer on condition of firefighters

• Check with Safety Officer and compare information

• Relocate or add another RIT

• Potential collapse and collapse area

• EMS for the RIT available

Other Size-up ConsiderationsOther Size-up Considerations

Radio ChannelPositioning

Using RemoteMicrophones

Carry PersonalEscape System

Feedback of twoportables

Identify exits asyou go

Don’t loose contactwith hose/rope

Everyone shouldhave webbing

Close door over apike pole

Buy wire cuttersand carry them

Learn to tie knots 1handed and blind

Concrete nails forwooden doors

Know couplingdirection

Open nozzle atceiling for drops

Open ceilings asyou go

Practiceaccountability

Tips from the “Pros”Tips from the “Pros”

Preparing For Hands OnPreparing For Hands On

• RAPID INTERVENTION TEAM CHECKLIST RAPID INTERVENTION TEAM CHECKLIST SIZE-UP SIZE-UP

• o o 1. Building dimensions (length 2 width 2 height).1. Building dimensions (length 2 width 2 height).• o 2. Building occupancy. o 2. Building occupancy. • o 3. Building construction type: Wood frame. Heavy timber. o 3. Building construction type: Wood frame. Heavy timber.

Ordinary. Noncombustible. Fire restive. Ordinary. Noncombustible. Fire restive. • o 4. Placement of windows, doors, fire escapes, porches, and so o 4. Placement of windows, doors, fire escapes, porches, and so

on. on. • o 5. Potential danger of high-security doors, barred windows, o 5. Potential danger of high-security doors, barred windows,

building modifications. TACTICS building modifications. TACTICS • o 6. Offensive, defensive, defensive-to-offensive. o 6. Offensive, defensive, defensive-to-offensive. • o 7. Command operations: Check tactics sheet or board. Check o 7. Command operations: Check tactics sheet or board. Check

accountability system. Communication/incident commanders. accountability system. Communication/incident commanders. • o 8. Ladders and truck operations.o 8. Ladders and truck operations.• o 9. Fireground time vs. progress. o 9. Fireground time vs. progress.

Preparing For Hands OnPreparing For Hands On•EQUIPMENT o 10. Stage equipment based on construction type: Examples:EQUIPMENT o 10. Stage equipment based on construction type: Examples:• Wood Frame/Heavy Timber/Ordinary Noncombustible/Fire Resistive Wood Frame/Heavy Timber/Ordinary Noncombustible/Fire Resistive •o Pickhead axes and pike poles o Pickhead axes and pike poles •o Halligan bars o Halligan bars •o Circular wood-blade saw o Circular wood-blade saw •o Sledgehammers o Sledgehammers •o Ventilation chain saw o Ventilation chain saw •o Circular metal-blade saw o Circular metal-blade saw •o Halligan bar and sledgehammer o Halligan bar and sledgehammer •o Torch o Torch •o Search rope o Search ropes o Search rope o Search ropes •o Emergency air supply or SCBA o o Emergency air supply or SCBA o •o Charged hoseline o Charged hoseline •o Ground ladder(s) o Ground ladder(s) •OTHER OPERATIONS: OTHER OPERATIONS: •o 11. Check with rehab officer/condition of firefighters. o o 11. Check with rehab officer/condition of firefighters. o •12. Check with safety officer/compare information. o 12. Check with safety officer/compare information. o •13. Relocate or add another RIT. o 13. Relocate or add another RIT. o •14. Potential collapse and collapse area. O14. Potential collapse and collapse area. O• 15. EMS for the RIT. 15. EMS for the RIT.

Hands on “practicals”Hands on “practicals”

• Once the firefighter is located the safety team must provide a detailed report to the IC of the condition of the firefighter in question. This report must include;

• Exact location of firefighter in distress. • Whether firefighter is conscious or not. • Information concerning the fact that the search rope is deployed

as a path to the distressed firefighter. • If any special tools are required at the location. • If additional assistance (personnel) are required at the location. • If an alternate route of escape is possible and if it will be used. • If the firefighter is alone or if additional firefighters are in need of

assistance.

Objectives of the courseObjectives of the course

• Downed firefighter assessment and Downed firefighter assessment and preparation.preparation.

Downed firefighter removal; across floors, up/down stairsDowned firefighter removal; across floors, up/down stairs

Downed firefighter removals: through holes, on laddersDowned firefighter removals: through holes, on ladders


• Downed Firefighter Removals:Downed Firefighter Removals:

• Below grade via charged hoseline or ropesBelow grade via charged hoseline or ropes· Ladder removals: high point and low point · Ladder removals: high point and low point · Wall breaching and enlarged openings· Wall breaching and enlarged openings· Collapse operations· Collapse operations· Technical and specialized rescue tools; saws, · Technical and specialized rescue tools; saws, torches, air bags, etc. torches, air bags, etc.

below grade via charged hoselinebelow grade via charged hoselineenlarged openingsenlarged openings

below grade via ropebelow grade via rope




Ladder removals: high point and low pointLadder removals: high point and low point

Wall breachingWall breaching

Without a ToolWithout a Tool

Collapse operationsCollapse operations

Technical and specialized rescue tools; saws, torches, air bags, etcTechnical and specialized rescue tools; saws, torches, air bags, etc

• Actual Team Search DeploymentActual Team Search Deployment· In-depth firefighter rescue operations· In-depth firefighter rescue operations· Advanced downed firefighter removal · Advanced downed firefighter removal techniquestechniques· The ultimate use of all techniques and · The ultimate use of all techniques and tools availabletools available


• Quarterly review of these lifesaving skills is a must:

– Donning / Doffing of SCBA (Reduced Profile Maneuver)

• Other product specific advanced SCBA techniques; quick fill

– Tying of basic rescue knots

• Bowline around self

• Handcuff knot

– Activation of RIT

• Mayday or Emergency Traffic

– Release from obstructions techniques

• Swim Method for wire, use of sidecutters

– Hose direction identification by couplings

Firefighter Survival Skills Firefighter Survival Skills TrainingTraining

Thanks to the following:Thanks to the following:

Rapid Intervention TeamsRapid Intervention Teams• MABAS Division 10

• Policy and Procedures Division 10 created policy

December 1996, approved and under implementation

Referenced from NFPA 1500, 1992 Edition

Now in use nationwide as the ultimate in firefighter life safety procedures

This course was developed by the Illinois Fire Service Institute. The

course was taught by members of the Chicago, Schaumburg Fire

Department members. This was initially a 16 hour “train the trainer” course taught to members of AFD

that had been selected by the training staff. The course was modified to meet the immediate needs of the

AFD. Additional components of this course will be incorporated into

future training sessions.

“Saving Our Own”

•Instructors

–B/C Forest Reeder

–Lt. Mike Grazian

–FF/PM Ken Brucki

• Illinois Fire Service Institute - Saving Our Own Program

• Firefighter Survival - John Sulka, FDNY

• Firefighter Safety and Survival -

• USFA / NIOSH / NFPA Reports

• Personal Experiences and Case Studies

• Training

Course References

Documents

R.I.T. RapidInterventionTeam Mission Statement “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends”(John 15:13)