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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSearch Guide Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 1 Fresno Fire Department Search Guide Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 2 Table of Contents CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION ................................................................................. 4 Victim Locations ................................................................................................ 4 Who is Locating Fire Victims? .......................................................................... 5 Time is of the Essence ...................................................................................... 5 CHAPTER 2: SEARCH PRINCIPLES ........................................................................ 6 Key Considerations ........................................................................................... 6 Locate - Isolate – Communicate ....................................................................... 7 Search Priority ................................................................................................... 7 CHAPTER 3: BUILDING CONSTRUCTION FOR SEARCH ...................................... 7 The Building ....................................................................................................... 7 Construction Era ................................................................................................ 8 Exterior Size-Up ................................................................................................. 8 Number of Floors and Footprint ....................................................................... 8 Roof..................................................................................................................... 8 Exterior Walls ..................................................................................................... 8 Interior .............................................................................................................. 11 Sources ............................................................................................................. 12 CHAPTER 4: SEARCH TACTICS ............................................................................ 12 Searching with a Hose Line ............................................................................ 12 Searching with a Tag Line ............................................................................... 13 Body Position ................................................................................................... 13 Isolation ............................................................................................................ 13 Ventilation ........................................................................................................ 14 Communication of Searched Areas ............................................................... 14 Thermal Imaging Camera Use ........................................................................ 14 Where to Search .............................................................................................. 14 Searching Above the Fire Floor ...................................................................... 15 CHAPTER 5: TYPES OF SEARCHES .................................................................... 15 Considerations when assigned search: ........................................................ 16 Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 3 CHAPTER 6: VICTIM REMOVAL ............................................................................ 27 DEFINITIONS .......................................................................................................... 32 REFERENCES ........................................................................................................ 33 Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 4 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION The mission of the Fresno Fire Department (FFD or Department) is "To Protect and Put Service above All Else." The most effective lifesaving tactics on the fire ground involve an early, systematic search plan, rapid water application on the fire, and coor- dinated ventilation. This section will cover the fundamentals of Search and Rescue on the fire ground. Victim Locations According to the NFPA and Firefighter Rescue Survey, victim locations are as follows: Figure 1 - Victim Location v Total Recorded Rescues Pie Chart While the majority (60%+) of victims are found in the bedrooms and family room, it is essential to conduct a primary search of the entire structure quickly. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 5 Who is Locating Fire Victims? Based on data from Firefighter Rescue Survey: • 28% of victims were located by the Fire Attack team while advancing the line to the fire compartment, with a 51% survival rate. • 60% of victims were located by the Primary Search team, with a 49% survival rate. Time is of the Essence The survival rate of fire victims is significantly influenced by the time from on-scene arrival to victim location: • 66% survival rate when victims are located within 2 minutes. • 36% survival rate when victims are located within 6-8 minutes. These statistics underscore the critical importance of a swift and efficient search and rescue operation on the fire ground. Figure 2 - When Was Search Initiated v Survival Percentage Bar Chart Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 6 CHAPTER 2: SEARCH PRINCIPLES The Fresno Fire Department consistently strives to conduct an immediate primary search, followed by a thorough secondary search of all structure fires. Searches can be performed in front of or without an operating hose line on the fire ground. Members must always remain aware of their environment, including the status, location, and op- eration of hose lines or the lack thereof. On-scene witness reports will only be repeated if they are “positive,” indicating the presence of a civilian inside (e.g., “My baby is inside,” “They are home,” etc.). Gather any pertinent information quickly: How many people? Where might they be? Age? Do not spend much time; get the information you need and proceed with the search. Consider sending the informant to the Incident Commander (IC) or another person who can probe for additional information. At this point, rescue mode should be declared over the radio and forgo the two-out rule. Conversely, if there are negative reports such as “no one is home,” “everyone is out,” or “the building is abandoned or vacant,” acknowledge this information to the reporting party, but not over the radio. Most people have never experienced a house fire and may not recall recent events accurately, such as having guests or children’s friends over. Everyone reacts differ- ently under stress, even if they appear calm. Evaluate all on scene reports the same regardless of the source: police officer, homeowner, son, neighbor, mom, etc. Key Considerations • Time is of the essence: How can we reduce the time to initiate a primary search? • Search Size-up • Search: Types and decisions to make while searching • Rescue: Having a plan Based on your search size-up, a search may be initiated prior to or in conjunction with a fire attack. Searching inside a structure before a fire attack is the most dangerous position on the fire ground. The assignment of search has two objectives: locate fire and locate life. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 7 Locate - Isolate – Communicate When searching ahead of the hose line and locating the fire, it is crucial to communi- cate not only the fire’s location but also the best-known access to the fire to the fire attack team. Announcing the stair location can save valuable seconds. Locate and isolate the fire to create the best opportunity to search the largest area, then communi- cate the fire’s location to the fire attack team. Search Priority • 42% of victims are located in a bedroom • 11.5% of victims are located in a hallway • 10% of victims are located within 6 feet of an exterior door Our search priorities are the bedrooms and paths of egress as we enter the structure. Victims higher in the elements have a lower chance of survival, such as those on beds versus floors. Search top bunks first, then the bed, and lastly under the bed. Check between the bed and the wall and closet floors. Victims in a room behind a closed door have a greater chance of survival. When encountering two rooms, one with an open door and one with a closed door, prioritize the open-door room. The fire apartment or room is the priority, with Fire Attack typically searching the im- mediate fire area. Adjacent apartments and rooms are the next priority, followed by another crew searching the floor above in the same pattern. CHAPTER 3: BUILDING CONSTRUCTION FOR SEARCH The Building Effectively sizing up the building is beneficial for every assignment on the fire ground. It’s crucial to be knowledgeable about building codes and construction types in your area. Assess the building’s construction type, era, number of floors, and footprint. Observe the roof, exterior walls, doors, windows, the possibility of a basement, and indicators of interior stairwell locations. This knowledge helps your crew perform effi- cient and effective searches, find egress points, and stay oriented inside the building. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 8 Construction Era Understanding building eras can help determine the building type, materials, special hazards, fire behavior, floor layout, and structural integrity under fire conditions. Struc- tures built before the “new” national wood standard of 1924 used full-dimensional lum- ber floor joists and tongue-and-groove (T&G) floor decking, which hold up longer under fire conditions compared to the lightweight, engineered wood products that started to appear in the mid-1980s. The Fresno Fire Department Building Construction Guide covers the different eras of construction. Exterior Size-Up Number of Floors and Footprint Understanding the structure’s layout helps decide the search pattern, how or if the crew will split, search priorities, and can indicate fire walls, fire doors, and stairwell locations. The greater the footprint and number of floors, the more manpower needed for the primary search. Staying oriented during a search depends on understanding the layout of the structure. Roof A pitched roof, visible from the ground, can indicate room locations and the layout of a structure by locating plumbing vents, chimneys, skylights, and dormers. • Plumbing Vents: Typically 1/2" - 2 1/2" diameter black pipes coming from the roof indicate bathroom and kitchen locations. • Chimney: Usually indicates common areas of the house, though this may not hold for custom-built homes. • Skylights: Found in most types of rooms to increase natural light, though they are not common in bedrooms due to the need to control light for sleeping. Exterior Walls Indicators from the exterior walls, such as mailboxes, electrical/gas meters, and ad- dress/room numbers, can determine the number of units and room locations. A dryer vent indicates laundry or utility rooms. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 9 Figure 3 - Electrical/Gas Meters Exterior Doors • Front Doors: Typically swing towards the bedrooms and into a foyer, leading to the stairs, family room, kitchen, or hallway. • Garage Man Doors: Open into kitchens, utility rooms, laundry rooms, and fam- ily rooms. • Sliding Glass Doors: Open into kitchens, family rooms, or master bedrooms. • Outward Swinging Doors: Typically lead to utility closets. Windows Windows are prime indicators of building layout, room location, and access/egress points. Security bars on windows and doors can determine rescue and emergency Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 10 egress locations. Windows on corners with another window on the adjoining wall can help confirm room type and layout. • Window Accessories: Blackout blinds or air conditioning units often indicate bedrooms. Items like hair products, kid toys, or dish soap on the windowsill can also be indicators of room type. Bathrooms Bathroom windows are typically smaller, higher on the wall, and frosted for privacy. Multi-story homes with multiple bathrooms on the first floor may indicate a master bed- room on the main floor. Bedrooms Bedroom windows typically have a sill height of 24" - 36" from the floor, depending on code. Living Areas Family/living room windows are usually larger (60" in height) with lower sills (20") to increase the view and light. Basements A house with multiple steps up to the front door, high windowsills in common areas near the front door, and a detached or side garage might indicate a basement. Garage Location In a ranch-style home, the garage is typically on the opposite side of the structure from the bedrooms and often provides access to the kitchen. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 11 Interior Stairs Knowledge of building construction, type, and era, along with window size-up, can help locate interior stairwells. A window that is not in line with others or is located between floors can indicate stair locations. Vent Enter Isolate Search (VEIS) VEIS is a tactic used by firefighters to quickly locate and rescue trapped occupants in a burning building. The process begins with venting, where firefighters create open- ings, typically by breaking windows. This step must be executed with caution to avoid feeding the fire with additional oxygen, which could intensify the flames. Once the area is vented, firefighters move to the next step, entering the building through the vented opening, usually a window. It is crucial for them to ensure the area is safe to enter and to have a clear exit route in case conditions worsen. After entering, the firefighters focus on isolating the area to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. This is done by closing doors or creating barriers between the fire and the area being searched, thus creating a safer environment for both the trapped occupants and the firefighters. The final step is the search, where firefighters conduct a thorough and systematic sweep of the area to locate and rescue any trapped occupants. Using tools and tech- niques to navigate through smoke and debris, search teams must remain in constant communication with their team and command, ready to evacuate quickly if necessary. Interior Doors Hinges on interior doors can indicate the type of room. Doors that swing towards the main interior typically lead to stairs, closets, pantries, garages, or outside. A door with a deadbolt likely opens to the outside or a garage, warning of an elevation change. Basement doors can swing inward or outward. Doors that swing into a room are usu- ally bedrooms or bathrooms, indicating rooms with windows for refuge or egress. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 12 Windows from the Interior Perspective Operable residential windows with an outside sill height of over 72 inches must have an interior floor-to-sill height of 24-36 inches (International Residential Code/Interna- tional Codes). In low visibility, finding a floor HVAC register can indicate a window above. Floor Coverings Understanding typical room flooring can assist in orientation. Concrete floors or sub- floors typically indicate you are on the first floor, in a garage, or a basement. Bedrooms and living areas are typically carpeted, while foyers, kitchens, laundry rooms, and bath- rooms are usually wood, tile, or linoleum. For more information on using building construction to stay oriented inside a residential structure, watch this video. Sources • Clackamas Fire District #1: Truck Company Manual - Rescue & Search CHAPTER 4: SEARCH TACTICS "As to methods there may be a million and then some, but principles are few. The man who grasps principles can successfully select his own methods. The man who tries methods, ignoring principles, is sure to have trouble." - Harrington Emerson Searching with a Hose Line Moving away from the approach of assigning a single company to both fire attack and primary search, it's essential to focus on one task at a time for maximum effectiveness. "Never half-ass two things. Whole-ass one thing." - Ron Swanson. Therefore, the most effective search is performed off the hose line, known as a "dry search." However, an exception exists where many departments, including FDNY, use a 2-1/2 gallon pres- surized water extinguisher to accompany searches. This extinguisher effectively con- fines fire, holds doorways, and protects hallways, potentially extinguishing small fires. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 13 Searching with a Tag Line Taglines are uncommon in residential searches due to the ability to maintain visual or voice contact. They are more suited for commercial or large area searches. Ad- vantages of a tagline include increased accountability and knowledge of the search crew’s depth from the person tending the line outside of the IDLH (Immediate Danger to Life and Health). However, taglines can be cumbersome in high-content buildings and pose entanglement hazards or distractions to searchers. When using a tagline, it is crucial to recognize the increased risk and maintain situational awareness, empha- sizing communication, air management, and staying on the line. Proper training and continuous size-up are preferable to reliance on a tagline. Body Position Popular hose handling classes highlight body positions like various clamps, locks, or crooked leans, many of which resemble tripod positions. These positions, advanta- geous for hose handling, are also beneficial for searching or removing victims as they offer stability, bracing, and mobility. Working low to the ground within the visibility af- forded by fire conditions and the thermal layer is crucial. Unconscious victims are most likely found on the floor or in their sleeping arrangements (bed or couch). Moving feet and sweeping with arms cover a wide area quickly. For victim removal, being braced and using body weight and leverage against the floor is effective. Extending reach with a tool and sweeping gently ensures thorough checking without causing harm. Practicing staying within voice or visual contact, rather than physical contact, maxim- izes search efficiency. If visibility and conditions permit, walking upright allows greater speed. Otherwise, search low to utilize all available senses. Expect victims and be confident in removing them using techniques like the single firefighter dirty drag, which relies on good body positioning. Isolation A good search locates both victims and fire. Effective first-line placement is crucial, often aided by recon. In situations where the extent of fire spread is uncertain, getting inside the building to begin searching helps in removing victims and placing the fire attack line accurately. Upon encountering searchable space, isolating it provides a safe buffer against thermal injury and toxic gases. Victims behind closed doors have an 86% survival rate. Common practice includes closing the door and ventilating by taking (breaking) the window. Isolate the room before continuing the search. Isolating and communicating the fire's location helps in confining it, slowing its spread, and as- sisting fire attack. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 14 Ventilation Vertical and horizontal ventilation benefit firefighters by allowing hot or pressurized gases to escape and by improving compartment conditions. Closing doors and taking windows during a search initiates natural ventilation, improving conditions without ad- ditional staffing. Taking windows should be performed when isolation of the room is possible, and the flow path of the fire will not be disturbed. Once the fire is controlled, positive pressure or hydraulic ventilation further enhances the environment. Ventilate while searching if coordinated with fire attack, if the fire is under control, or if the room can be isolated. Communication of Searched Areas Complete a thorough search of each room. If victims are found, remove them, hand them off, and continue the search. It’s quicker and easier than describing incomplete searches to another crew. If driven out by fire, communicate an incomplete search. After completing a primary search, a secondary search may be initiated or a second crew will be assigned to perform the secondary search. If visibility is poor, a tertiary search once the fire is controlled and visibility improves is recommended to ensure no victims are missed. Thermal Imaging Camera Use Do not depend solely on the TIC. It is a tool that offers some advantages but also has limitations like tunnel vision and a false sense of security. TICs may not show expected heat signatures but can reveal contours. Anything seen on the TIC must be confirmed by touch. "Scan, Communicate, and Down." Use the TIC to orientate the search, with the orientator directing searchers and maintaining accountability. An oriented search is safer and allows searchers to focus on their task while the orientator manages com- munications. Where to Search Searchable space may be identified from the exterior or the interior. It’s common to find untouched areas in seemingly fully involved buildings. NFPA and Firefighter Res- cue Survey data show many civilians die while attempting to escape or sleeping. Pri- oritize searching paths of egress and sleeping quarters, then work outwards. Search near the fire first and thoroughly check closets, bathrooms, and behind doors where victims may hide. Avoid moving furniture to maintain orientation. Check elevated Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 15 spaces, beneath beds, windows, and behind doors. In hoarder conditions, check paths and on top of clutter without moving it. Searching Above the Fire Floor Prioritize searching bedrooms, often located above the ground floor, as they are high- value targets. Vent, Enter, Isolate, Search (VEIS) is effective for rescue, placing searchers in high-probability locations early in the incident. VEIS or similar dry searches above the fire are successful when quick, targeted, and performed by expe- rienced personnel. “To fight any structure fire other than from the interior when conditions are favorable to an interior attack, and a thorough search of the building for victims has not been con- cluded, does not merely constitute incompetence - it smacks of utter cowardice.” - Andy Fredericks, The Book of Andy CHAPTER 5: TYPES OF SEARCHES This section outlines the common types of searches employed by FFD and the con- siderations for each. When a company is assigned to initiate a search, it is the respon- sibility of the performing company to choose the appropriate search method based on the circumstances at the fire ground. The Incident Commander (IC) should not dictate the search method. Companies must monitor radio communications for assignments and conditions to make informed decisions on the most effective search method. Upon arriving at the fire building, members have two primary search objectives: • Locate any life hazards • Locate the fire There are two types of searches for life: • Primary Search • Secondary Search Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 16 Considerations when assigned search: 1. Determine a point of entry. Consider typical home layouts, where the alpha side front door often provides access to all parts of the structure. 2. The front door also offers a view of multiple areas upon initial assessment, while Charlie side doors may lead only to smaller spaces like washrooms or bed- rooms. 3. Fire conditions and the structural size-up will determine if this is the best entry point. 4. Conduct a “Life-Layout-Fire” assessment at the entry point. Get low and call out for victims, sweep the area around the door with your hands while listening for a response. 5. If the fire location is unknown, look for it and observe the direction of smoke travel. 6. Identify hallways leading to bedrooms to understand the layout before water application reduces visibility. Search: An orderly and systematic examination of a building or area to locate persons or the fire and its extensions. FFD strives to conduct an immediate primary search, followed by a thorough secondary search. Every building has the potential to be oc- cupied at any time. Searches may be performed with or without an operating hose line on the fire ground. Members must remain aware of the environment, including the status and location of hose lines. Primary Search: A primary search is a rapid but thorough search for life in all affected areas to locate victims or ensure their safety. This search is influenced by the fire, heat, and smoke conditions and may occur before water application. Key priorities include locating the fire, controlling doors and ventilation points, communicating the fire location, and determining if conditions are tenable for entry and search without hose line protection. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 17 Non-Anchored Searches: Split Search: 1. Crews split and search different portions of the home based on size-up priori- ties. 2. Crew members maintain their orientation and communicate via radio. 3. This faster search method is used with reports of multiple victims or favorable fire conditions. Example Scenarios: The fire attack team stretches a line through the front door and along the main path of egress (Figure 4), rather than pulling lines to the Charlie side. This placement allows the team to start a search for civilians while protecting potential victims and the search crew by positioning the line between the fire and the searchable areas. As the team positions the hose and begins to knock down the fire, one member can peel off to search adjacent areas (yellow) with the hose line's protection. As the fire is further controlled, the fire attack team will then search the fire area (red). The search crew (FF1 & FF2) understand that the hose line is their protection, posi- tioned between them and the areas to be searched. This allows them to perform a split search off the hallway (Figure 5), targeting bedrooms due to the high probability of civilians (42%). The firefighters will simultaneously search two bedrooms, staying oriented by their initial search size-up. They will enter the bedrooms independently, isolate the room, and ventilate. If visibility is low or zero, they will use a tool to break the window, leaving the sash intact. If visibility is moderate to high, they can quickly unlock the window, open the sash, and push out the screen. They will leave the tool in the hallway to search with both hands. The search starts on the bed, prioritizing those victims due to higher risk in the ele- ments. After searching the room, they will exit, isolate the room by closing the door, and meet in the hallway to continue the split search of the house (Figure 6). Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 18 Figure 4 - Target Split Search Figure 5 - Crew Splits Hall - Targeted Split Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 19 Figure 6 - Crew Splits Floor - One FF Left/One FF Right Oriented Search: 1. One member maintains orientation and directs others into rooms. 2. The oriented member handles all radio communications. 3. Used when fire conditions don’t allow split search, crews are unfamiliar with each other, or before fire attack. Example Scenario: An oriented search is when one member coordinates the search, ensuring all members remain oriented (Figure 7). In this approach, the lead member stays aware of the progress of all searchers, monitors fire conditions, and handles radio communication for the team. Traditionally, an oriented search involves one fire- fighter staying at the threshold of a room or apartment while another member searches inside. This method is ideal for large area searches, such as in public hallway struc- tures (residential or commercial), especially when fire attack is not in place, conditions are poor, or the crew is not accustomed to working together. A TIC may also assist the lead member in maintaining situational awareness of the searchers. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 20 Figure 7 - Oriented Search - One FF Stays "Oriented" (Egress/FF/Conditions/Plan) Window Entry Search (VEIS and VES): Entering through windows can quickly place firefighters in advantageous positions for locating victims, especially when stairs are difficult to navigate. VEIS (Vent Enter Isolate Search) and VES beyond the door are two methods. Typically, two firefighters make entry to ensure thorough search and victim removal. Considerations for Window Entry Search: • Team Entry: Two firefighters should enter through the window to conduct an aggressive search and assist with victim removal. • Third Firefighter Role: The third firefighter should either remain at the window to receive a victim or stay at the base of the ladder ready to climb up if a victim is found. The third firefighter may use a TIC to keep track of the entry team. • Entry Conditions: Two rescuers should enter unless the victim is known to be a young child. The first firefighter should clear the area directly below the inside The diagram shows a public hallway apartment building with a three firefighter crew. The red represents the “oriented” firefighter, while the green is firefighter one and the purple is firefighter two which are searching simultaneously. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 21 of the window. When entering on a second story, the floor should be sounded prior to entry. • Life-Layout-Fire: If conditions allow, search beyond the door. • Positioning Impact: Leaving a member on the ladder renders them unable to assist with victim removal (most victims are large and require multiple rescuers) and delays the room search if the first rescuer searches beyond the door. • Fire Conditions: Per the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), hollow core doors post-1985 last about 5 minutes when exposed to fire. If the door cannot be isolated, the second rescuer can use a closet door or mattress for protection while the first rescuer searches the room. • Window Entry: Fire conditions may prevent a rescuer from sitting in the window opening to guide a search, so the second firefighter should make entry and as- sist below the heat and smoke. • Initial Search: Immediately upon entering the room, members should quickly check/sweep the floor in the hall outside the door for victims before closing the door. Once closed, a detailed search can be conducted. The closed door will prevent fire from being drawn toward the room (VEIS). • Typical Procedure: Both firefighters typically enter through the window. This improves communication when a victim is found and reduces the time to rescue and remove the victim. If the room is unusually large, firefighters can split the room to speed up the search. The goal is to search beyond the initial room when possible. If entry through the window is not possible due to severe smoke and heat conditions, probe the floor area immediately inside the window with your hand for a victim and communicate conditions with command. • Room Identification: Enter any advantageous opening for a search, consider- ing clues to identify the type of room. Example Scenario (Figure 8): Engine 5 is assigned fire attack while Ladder 9 is as- signed search. As Engine 5 pulls lines and advances, Ladder 9 Team A initiates a VEIS on the delta side, targeting bedrooms (42% victim probability). Two bedrooms are on the delta side, with the likely master bedroom (B1) towards the Charlie side. Team A prioritizes B1, typically occupied first. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 22 Figure 8 - Example Scenario (B1/B2) Team A enters with two firefighters, expecting that help will be needed if a victim is located. Low to zero visibility makes it difficult to communicate effectively from outside the window. The search must be thorough, extending beyond the door when possible. The first firefighter assesses LIFE-LAYOUT-FIRE, isolates B1, and remains in the hall- way if feasible. The second firefighter immediately searches B1. After searching, they meet in the hallway. They cannot extend the search beyond the hallway due to fire, which Fire Attack is starting to extinguish. The crew or one firefighter searches bed- room (B2), isolates, and ventilates. Before exiting to find another way in, conditions improve as Fire Attack controls the fire, allowing them to continue down the hallway and coordinate their search efforts with Ladder 9 Team B. Key Point: The search crew maintained orientation by performing a thorough search size-up, monitoring conditions, and efficiently extending their search throughout the structure. This was possible because they made a single entry and took the time to observe Fire Attack's progress. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 23 Targeted Search: Targeting the highest probable location of trapped victims with the greatest chance of survivability. Start the search in areas within the structure with the highest potential for finding civilians, typically bedrooms, paths of egress, and within six feet of an exterior door. VEIS (Vent, Enter, Isolate, Search) is one method of tar- geted search, but not the only one. Targeted search involves aggressively focusing on specific locations in a building based on information gathered during size-up, such as a visible victim or a reliable, credible report from a knowledgeable person about a specific victim location (Figure 9). This approach can also be used when potential targets are identified, and egress paths are obstructed. Figure 9 - Targeted Search Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 24 Anchored Search – Large Area Search (LAS): During your search size-up, you may encounter situations where an oriented or "non-anchored" search is not feasible due to adverse conditions, building size, occupancy type, or complex layout. In such sce- narios, employing a large area or "anchored" tactic is necessary. Typically, a rope or hose line serves as the anchor, with the rope being the preferred choice for search operations. In an anchored Large Area Search (LAS), the anchor point should be established out- side the Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) environment. If anchoring off the hose line is deemed most effective, a rope bag can be attached to facilitate the search. Alternatively, a firefighter can use a long tool like a New York Hook to anchor to the hose line, albeit with limited range, extending approximately 6-8 feet from the line. Prioritize high-probability areas based on your search size-up, especially in large spaces where victim locations may vary significantly. Targeted areas in a large area search may include bathrooms, offices, or other spots where victims might seek refuge during a fire. A thorough search size-up, considering occupancy type, human behavior, and building layout, is crucial for maximizing effectiveness. In large area searches, effective crew management is essential. If resources permit multiple search crews, clear communi- cation between them is vital to avoid duplicating efforts and ensure comprehensive coverage. Initiating entry from multiple sides and entrances of a large structure helps prevent crews from becoming disoriented. In cases where coordination becomes com- plex, appointing a Search Group Supervisor can enhance efficiency and effectiveness. TIC Off of Search: Using tag lines on large area searches may not always be the most practical approach. Instead, consider bringing a single rope into the interior. This rope can be utilized to search targeted areas within the large space, with the TIC operator or an oriented firefighter serving as the anchor point. Once a targeted area has been thoroughly searched for victims, proceed to the next area. When conducting searches in large areas, it's essential to maintain a systematic ap- proach while prioritizing speed for the primary search. In such scenarios, performing a right-handed or left-handed search, typical in big box stores or large open buildings, may prove ineffective. Identifying targeted areas within a large space is crucial, focusing on spots like bath- rooms, office spaces, or other areas where victims might seek refuge during a fire. These targeted areas should be approached methodically to ensure thorough cover- age and maximize the chances of locating trapped individuals. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 25 Perimeter Search: The perimeter search method proves invaluable in reducing the square footage covered in vast open spaces like warehouses, body shops, or big box stores. Its primary objective is to streamline the search area, uphold accountability and orientation, and pinpoint high-probability locations of victims. Leveraging the Ther- mal Imaging Camera (TIC) as a force multiplier grants the search team a significant tactical advantage. Upon identifying an entry point, it is imperative to establish communication with the Incident Commander (IC). Firefighters will secure the rope to the exterior of the struc- ture before commencing the search. Prior to entry, conduct a thorough LIFE-LAYOUT- FIRE size-up with the TIC to gather intelligence on the targeted space. The Company Officer should provide the firefighters with a visual of the TIC to enhance their situa- tional awareness. At predetermined intervals, typically every 20-25 feet, the Company Officer directs the team to halt and conduct scans for signs of life, layout, and fire. During the search, the Company Officer, equipped with the TIC, may opt to traverse from the line to explore specific areas while maintaining orientation. Meanwhile, a firefighter remains anchored to the rope. Alternatively, the Company Officer may choose to bring along another firefighter to assist in the search before returning to the rope for continued perimeter exploration. Maintaining accountability, the Company Of- ficer may elect to remain anchored to the rope while directing firefighters to investigate areas of interest, ensuring orientation and accountability are upheld. Upon reaching 75 feet into the building (this guideline is based on the length of FFD utility ropes), the Company Officer should contact the IC to provide a Conditions Ac- tions and Needs (CAN) report and check on the crew's air status. At the 150-foot mark, another CAN report is necessary, and guidance from the IC is sought on whether to continue the search or exit the building. If exiting is mandated, the crew secures the rope to an anchor point inside the building and leaves it in place for potential continu- ation by another crew or for lateral searches from the main line. When changes of direction occur (left/right), crews must locate anchor points to tie off the rope. Communication with the IC is vital during these changes, as the crew awaits guidance on whether to continue the perimeter search along a divisional wall or exit the structure. Additionally, upon encountering egress points, crews should tie off to nearby anchors to mark exits and promptly inform Command of their discovery. Multi-Entry Search: One consideration in conducting a Large Area Search (LAS) in- volves employing multiple entry points to swiftly cover the building. For instance, Lad- der 9 can begin their search from the Alpha/Bravo corner door, coordinating with Lad- der 3 initiating a search from the Delta side door. Meanwhile, Ladder 1 proceeds to Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 26 the Charlie side of the structure and commences a search midway between the Bravo and Delta sides. This approach enables Ladder 9 and Ladder 3 to gain an interior assessment of the building's width, while Ladder 1, positioned on the Charlie side, provides insights into the structure's length. Subsequently, these units can execute a thorough, efficient, and methodical search of the expansive area. Lateral Search: Used to clear deeper areas within large structures by deploying from an anchored perimeter rope and searching targeted areas before returning to the an- chor. Secondary Search: A secondary search is a meticulous and comprehensive search for life in all areas covered by the primary search, plus additional spaces like the build- ing’s exterior, shafts, basements, cellars, elevators, and roofs. It ensures no victims are overlooked and should be completed before extensive overhauling begins. A dif- ferent company from the primary search should conduct the secondary search, and its completion must be communicated to the IC or Division/Group Supervisor. Communication Tips: • Exterior teams should report conditions, including wind effects, to their Officer or the IC. • Officers must communicate with outside teams to maintain location awareness and safety. • Search team members should monitor radio transmissions, especially regarding water supply and hose line positions. • Company Officers should notify the IC or Division/Group when searches are completed or if an area hasn’t been searched. Search Tips: 1. Hold your breath, listen, and stay still after calling out for victims. 2. Stay alert for sounds of trapped victims. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 27 3. Use TICs cautiously and avoid tunnel vision. 4. Thoroughly search areas around located victims. 5. Avoid moving furniture unnecessarily. 6. Force locked doors and search the rooms. 7. Check under beds and above for bunk beds. 8. Thoroughly search and sift through piles of clothes and bed linens. 9. Get down on the ground to search in low visibility conditions. 10. Ventilate while searching if coordinated with fire attack or if conditions allow. “Don’t let our ego get in the way of a good search. I don’t care how many teams the chief wants to use to go over an area, I am never going to say I am positive that there is no baby in that smoke-filled room.” - Mike Lombardo CHAPTER 6: VICTIM REMOVAL What is victim removal? Victim removal involves extracting a victim from an Immedi- ately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) environment as quickly as possible. We cat- egorize victim removal strategies into Rescue, Evacuation, and Shelter in Place. The chosen strategy depends on building construction and condition, fire conditions, and victim profile. When you find a victim: Upon discovering a victim, the rescuer should immediately alert nearby team members by shouting, “VICTIM, VICTIM, VICTIM.” This signal, re- peated three times, indicates critical information, similar to a MAYDAY call. Commu- nication with command outside the IDLH environment should be brief to avoid delaying victim removal. The rescuer must balance immediate removal with timely communi- cation for help. Next, the rescuer should search the area around the victim for other potential victims, as they often huddle together when unable to escape. The subse- quent steps for victim removal depend on various situational factors. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 28 Factors to consider when choosing a rescue strategy: Several factors dictate the method and route for victim removal from an IDLH environment, including: • Victim location relative to exits • Victim size • Smoke and heat conditions • Rescuer condition • Victim position • Building obstacles • Flooring Grips: We use grappling techniques for victim drags and carries, specifically the Ki- mura Grip (Figure 10) and Gable Grip (Figure 11). These "thumb-less" grips are stronger and easier to perform with gloves and in zero visibility. The general rule is to wrap the body part with one arm and use the opposite hand for the top grip, thinking of hands as hooks. These grips help maintain a hold on the victim, crucial in fire envi- ronments. Figure 10 - Kimura Grip Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 29 Figure 11 - Gable Grip Drags: Drags are the primary tactic for unconscious victims in moderate to high heat and smoke conditions, keeping the victim’s airway close to the ground. Feet first drags: Feet first drags are preferred as they keep the victim's head low and shorten the overall body length of the victim and rescuer. Methods include crossing the victim’s legs, placing their feet in each armpit, or using two firefighters (Figure 12). Brace your arms in the victim’s knee pits for a secure hold. Figure 12 - Feet First Drags Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 30 Head first drags: Head first drags, though less desirable, can be performed by one or two firefighters using a "wrist lock" (Figure 13) or "single arm lock” (Figure 14). These elongate the victim-rescuer combo and are best for short distances when the victim's head is oriented towards the exit. Figure 13 - Wrist Lock Figure 14 - Single Arm Lock Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 31 Carries: Carries decrease removal time and are best for small victims, like children. They should be considered based on the victim’s airway exposure to heat and smoke and are suitable for short distances with light heat and smoke. Removal Out Windows Feet First: Drag the victim to the window on their back, per- pendicular to the wall. Lift the victim to the windowsill with rescuers on either side, and if possible, an exterior rescuer assists by grabbing the legs and lifting. Capture pro- gress by placing the victim on one knee, then hand off to exterior rescuers. Head First: Slide the victim to the window on their back, perpendicular to the wall. Place the victim's feet flat on the floor, knees bent. Lift the victim from the head, rolling them out the window head first, with assistance from exterior rescuers pulling the arms. Removal Down Ladders: Ideally, use two ladders side by side, though one can be sufficient. Rescuers should not lock off. Perpendicular to ladder: Receive the victim head first, facing down the ladder. Slide the victim's head to one side, place an arm between the victim's lower arm and head, and lower the legs until perpendicular to the ladder. Place other arm between the vic- tim’s legs. Secure the victim and proceed down the ladder, pulling into the ladder to pin the victim if control is lost. Legs over shoulders: Receive the victim legs first with your chest to the ladder. Place the victim's legs over your shoulders, slide the victim’s butt down, and proceed down the ladder. Pull into the ladder to pin the victim if control is lost. EVACUATION: Evacuation involves removing civilians near danger through safe egress paths, prioritizing the closest exposure and systematically moving away from danger. This is effective in motels, strip malls, and garden-style apartments. SHELTER IN PLACE: For conscious victims in safe areas, sheltering in place allows for patient care and controlled exiting. This tactic is useful when egress is compro- mised, such as in center hall construction, and when victims are bed bound or have limited mobility. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 32 DEFINITIONS 1. Alternative Entry Points: Primary search starting from locations other than the front door. 2. Common Area: An interior space where people congregate, not a bedroom. 3. Dirty Drag: Quick victim removal using body mechanics and simple grips, with- out the use of webbing or tools. 4. Dry Search: A search conducted without a hose line, allowing greater focus and speed, potentially with a water extinguisher. 5. Knockdown: Extinguishing the fire to stop its progress and stabilize the inci- dent. 6. Layout: The interior configuration of a building. 7. Life-Layout-Fire: The "Life-Layout-Fire" size-up is a method used by firefight- ers to quickly assess a structure upon entry during a fire. This technique fo- cuses on three main aspects: a. Life: The initial priority is to check for any occupants who may need res- cuing. Firefighters will search behind doors and other likely areas where people might be found, particularly near entry points and common paths of egress. This includes looking under smoke layers and in areas where children might hide, such as behind doors or in closets. b. Layout: Understanding the layout of the building is crucial for navigating it safely and efficiently. Firefighters take note of the structure’s design, such as the locations of stairwells, hallways, and potential hazards like clutter. This knowledge helps them move more effectively through the building, locate the fire, and perform search and rescue operations. c. Fire: The next step is to locate the fire itself. This involves identifying the source of smoke or flames and communicating its location to other team members. Firefighters look for visual indicators like smoke color and movement, listen for the sounds of the fire, and feel for heat to determine the fire's position and intensity. 8. Occupied: A structure with life inside at the start of the incident, considered occupied until confirmed otherwise through search. Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 33 9. Orientation: Familiarity with the structure's layout and egress routes. 10. Primary Search: Immediate search for life performed before or during fire sup- pression. 11. Rescue: Removing unconscious or non-ambulatory victims from IDLH environ- ments during a search. 12. Search: Systematic examination of a building or area to locate people and/or fire. 13. Search Size-Up: Ongoing assessment of searchability, fire behavior, building construction, and human behavior. 14. Secondary Search: Thorough search for life after fire suppression and ventila- tion, increasing visibility, performed by different members from the primary search. 15. Tagline: A rope anchored to a fixed location for search orientation. 16. Unoccupied: A structure with the potential to be occupied, considered unoccu- pied after primary and secondary searches. 17. Ventilate Enter Isolate Search (VEIS): Direct search method going to specific areas from the exterior, isolating and searching rooms based on reliable intelli- gence. REFERENCES FDNY Training Bulletin Search 1 (Revised 01/25/23) FSRI Study of Fire Service Residential Home Size-up and Search & Rescue Opera- tions https://fsri.org/research/study-fire-service-residential-home-size-and-search-res- cue-operations CFD Training YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/1jbOn8Aw2jQ (Using the water can in fire operations) Fire Engineering YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/RHTjoal_YZE (Search Techniques) https://youtu.be/hVGNAbRkBBc (Search with the water can) Fresno Fire Department July 2024 Page 34 Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Training Division YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/Yj3Ff0YzW04 (Threshold Search) https://youtu.be/rBzNz_Zo-UE (Residential Basic Search) https://youtu.be/MpRz0zS6FkU (Large Residential Room Search) https://youtu.be/wOldHzXmLFc (Split Room Search) https://youtu.be/SKqJlQl3fog (Two Person Oriented Search) https://youtu.be/Nq-GSFsF6L4 (Room within a room) https://youtu.be/taL50eKyIbg (VEIS) https://youtu.be/g5699XGkRF0 (Searching Furniture) https://youtu.be/j5P4OZk1gPE (Large Area Search) https://youtu.be/lhTGS86yrxk (Rope Bag Management) https://youtu.be/zCHFKclWxQQ (Can Slide) Seattle Fire Training Division YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HPyXuTuTqY (2 Bedroom Search) UL/FSRI YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMCAszOI3Ps (Tactical Consideration: There can be survivable spaces on arrival) "Evidence-Based Engine and Truck Operations" (UL/FSRI class), 2022 Firefighter Rescue Survey website Clackamas Fire District #1: Truck Company Manual - Rescue & Search "Residential Search Operations and VEIS" (Advanced Fire Control training group class), CATO Symposium 2022 "Residential Search Operations and VEIS" (Nobody Gets Left Behind training group class), CATO Symposium 2017 Firehouse Vigilance, Weekly Scrap Podcast Weekly Scrap #164 - Justin McWilliams, Search, Search, Search and more Search Weekly Scrap #150 - Curt Isakson, We are the lucky ones! Weekly Scrap #138 - Nick Ledin, Firefighter Rescue Survey Weekly Scrap #107 – Dustin Martinez, Search Reformation Fresno Fire Department Guides Building Construction Guide