Firefighter Code of Ethics
Background
The Fire Service is a noble calling, one which is founded on mutual respect and trust between
firefighters and the citizens they serve. To ensure the continuing integrity of the Fire Service, the
highest standards of ethical conduct must be maintained at all times.
The purpose of this National Firefighter Code of Ethics is to establish criteria that encourages fire service
personnel to promote a culture of ethical integrity and high standards of professionalism in our field.
The broad scope of this recommended Code of Ethics is intended to mitigate and negate situations that
may result in embarrassment and waning of public support for what has historically been a highly
respected profession.
Ethics comes from the Greek word ethos, meaning character. Character is not necessarily defined by
how a person behaves when conditions are optimal and life is good. It is easy to take the high road
when the path is paved and obstacles are few or non-existent. Character is also defined by decisions
made under pressure, when no one is looking, when the road contains land mines, and the way is
obscured. As members of the Fire Service, we share a responsibility to project an ethical character of
professionalism, integrity, compassion, loyalty and honesty in all what we do, all of the time.
We need to accept this ethics challenge and be truly willing to maintain a culture that is consistent with
the expectations outlined in this document. By doing so, we can create a legacy that validates and
sustains the distinguished Fire Service institution, and at the same time ensure that we leave the Fire
Service in better condition than when we arrived.
Firefighter Code of Ethics
I understand that I have the responsibility to conduct myself in a manner that reflects proper ethical
behavior and integrity. In so doing, I will help foster a continuing positive public perception of the fire
service. Therefore, I pledge the following...
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Always conduct myself, on and off duty in a manner that reflects positively on myself, my
department and the fire service in general.
Accept responsibility for my actions and for the consequences of my actions.
Support the concept of fairness and the value of all diverse thoughts and opinions.
Avoid situations that would adversely affect the credibility or public perception of the fire
service profession.
Be truthful and hones at all times and report instances of cheating or other dishonest acts that
compromise the integrity of the fire service.
Conduct my personal affairs in a manner that does not improperly influence the performance of
my duties, or bring discredit to my organization.
Be respectful and conscious of each member’s safety and welfare.
Recognize that I serve in a position of public trust that requires stewardship in the honest and
efficient use of publicly owned resources, including uniforms, facilities, vehicles and equipment
and that these are protected from misuse and theft.
Exercise professionalism, competence, respect and loyalty in the performance of my duties and
use information, confidential or otherwise, gained by virtue of my position, only to benefit those
I am entrusted to serve.
Avoid financial investments, outside employment, outside business interest or activities that
conflict with or are enhanced by my official position or have the potential to create the
perception of impropriety.
Never propose or accept personal rewards, special privileges, benefits, advancement, honors or
gifts that may create a conflict of interest, or the appearance thereof.
Never engage in activities involving alcohol or other substance use or abuse that can impair my
mental state or the performance of my duties and compromise safety.
Never discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, creed, age, marital status, national origin,
ancestry, gender, sexual preference, medical condition or handicap.
Never harass, intimidate or threaten fellow members of the service or the public and stop or
report the actions of other firefighters who engage in such behaviours.
Responsibly use social networking, electronic communications, or other media technology
opportunities in a manner that does not discredit, dishonour or embarrass my organization, the
fire service and the public. I also understand that failure to resolve or report in appropriate use
of this media equates to condoning this behavior.
Developed by the National Society of Executive Fire Officers
Table of Contents
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY ...................................................................................................... 1
OG 1.0
OG 1.01
OG 1.1
OG 1.02
OG 1.2
OG 1.2.1
OG 1.2.2
OG 1.2.3
OG 1.2.4
OG 1.3
OG 1.3.1
OG 1.3.2
OG 1.3.3
OG 1.3.4
OG 1.3.5
OG 1.3.6
OG 1.3.7
OG 1.3.8
OG 1.3.9
OG 1.3.10
OG 1.4
OG 1.4.1
OG 1.4.2
OG 1.5
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY PROGRAM - GENERAL GUIDELINES .................. 1
EXPOSURE TO DISEASES .................................................................................................. 2
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION GUIDELINES ...................................................................... 3
CRITICAL INCIDENT STRESS MANAGEMENT................................................................... 4
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT - Inspection and Use............... 6
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT - Clothing Inspection and Cleaning ................... 10
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT - Personal Alert Safety Devices ........................ 11
EQUIPMENT SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE - Turnout Gear ............................................ 12
EQUIPMENT SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE - Self Contained Breathing Apparatus ........ 13
INCIDENT SAFETY - Fire Department Members Accountability (Passport) ....................... 14
INCIDENT SAFETY - Safety Officer .................................................................................... 15
INCIDENT SAFETY - Incident Rehabilitation Sector ........................................................... 16
INCIDENT SAFETY - Operational Readiness and Rehabilitation ....................................... 17
INCIDENT SAFETY - Electrical Emergency Safety ............................................................. 18
INCIDENT SAFETY - Rapid Intervention Team................................................................... 19
INCIDENT SAFETY - Emergency Evacuation Alert ............................................................ 21
INCIDENT SAFETY - Initial Fire Attack Team ..................................................................... 22
INCIDENT SAFETY - Fire Department Members Risk ........................................................ 23
INCIDENT SAFETY - Traffic Control ................................................................................... 24
INCIDENT SAFETY - Prevention of Workplace Violence Procedures - On Scene ............. 25
VEHICLE RESPONSE SAFETY - Warning Devices in Emergency Operations ................. 27
VEHICLE RESPONSE SAFETY - Warning Devices in Non-Emergency Operations.......... 28
VEHICLE RESPONSE SAFETY - Vehicle Response Safety .............................................. 29
SMOKING ............................................................................................................................ 32
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS ........................................................................................... 33
OG 2.0
OG 2.1
OG 2.2
OG 2.3
OG 2.4
OG 2.4
OG 2.5
OG 2.6
OG 2.7
OG 2.8
OG 2.9
OG 2.10
OG 2.11
OG 2.12
OG 2.13
OG 2.14
OG 2.15
OPERATIONS - Incident Management ................................................................................ 33
OPERATIONS - Response to Calls - Bomb Scare .............................................................. 35
OPERATIONS - Dangerous Goods - Biological Weapons Threat ....................................... 36
OPERATIONS - Responses to Structure Fire Incidents ...................................................... 37
OPERATIONS - Responses to Other Fire Incidents ............................................................ 49
OPERATIONS - Responses to Other Fire Incidents ............................................................ 52
OPERATIONS – Fire Suppression – Vehicle Fires ............................................................. 53
OPERATIONS – Wildland-Urban Interface and Grass Based Fires .................................... 55
OPERATIONS – Fire Scene Turnover to Owner ................................................................. 57
OPERATIONS – Liability Release Form .............................................................................. 58
OPERATIONS – Post Extinguishment Fire Watch Report Instructions ............................... 59
OPERATIONS – Officer Emergency Response................................................................... 62
OPERATIONS – HAZ-MAT Scene Assessment .................................................................. 63
OPERATIONS – Fire Call-out Outside Service Area ........................................................... 64
OPERATIONS – Radio Communication .............................................................................. 66
OPERATIONS – SCBA – Self Contained Breathing Apparatus .......................................... 67
OPERATIONS – Incident Reports ....................................................................................... 68
SECTION 3: FIRE SERVICES TRAINING STANDARDS ......................................................................... 69
OG 3.0
OG 3.0.1
OG 3.1.0
OG 3.2
OG 3.3
TRAINING STANDARDS - Requirements ........................................................................... 69
TRAINING STANDARDS - Firefighters ................................................................................ 71
TRAINING STANDARDS - Live Fire .................................................................................... 73
TRAINING STANDARDS - Off-Site Training ....................................................................... 74
TRAINING STANDARDS - Emergency Vehicle Driver Training Program ........................... 75
Page i of iii
Table of Contents
SECTION 4: FIRE SERVICES INTER-AGENCY ....................................................................................... 76
OG 4.0
INTER-AGENCY - Office of the Fire Commissioner ............................................................ 76
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION ................................................................................... 78
OG 5.0
OG 5.1
OG 5.2
OG 5.3
OG 5.4
OG 5.5
OG 5.5.1
OG 5.5.2
OG 5.5.3
OG 5.5.4
OG 5.5.5
OG 5.5.6
OG 5.5.7
OG 5.5.7.1
OG 5.5.8
OG 5.5.9
OG 5.6
OG 5.7
OG 5.8
OG 5.9
OG 5.10
OG 5.11
OG 5.12
OG 5.13
OG 5.14
OG 5.15
OG 5.16
ADMINISTRATION - Use of Alcohol and Drugs .................................................................. 78
ADMINISTRATION - Leave of Absence .............................................................................. 79
ADMINISTRATION - Members Complaint Procedure ......................................................... 80
ADMINISTRATION - Promotions ......................................................................................... 81
ADMINISTRATION - Guidelines for Progressive Discipline ................................................ 82
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Fire Chief ............................................................... 85
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Deputy Fire Chief .................................................. 87
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Captain .................................................................. 88
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Lieutenant ............................................................. 89
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Training Officer ...................................................... 90
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Firefighter .............................................................. 92
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Probationary Firefighter......................................... 94
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Recruit Firefighters ................................................ 95
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Auxiliary Firefighter ............................................... 96
ADMINISTRATION - Honorariums ....................................................................................... 97
ADMINISTRATION - Remuneration Joint OH&S Committee .............................................. 98
ADMINISTRATION - Criminal Record Reviews ................................................................... 99
ADMINISTRATION - Records Retention and Management .............................................. 100
ADMINISTRATION - Appointment of Fire Chiefs............................................................... 101
ADMINISTRATION - Firefighter Liability ............................................................................ 102
ADMINISTRATION - Pre-Incident Planning Inspections ................................................... 103
ADMINISTRATION - Illegal Outdoor Burning .................................................................... 104
ADMINISTRATION - Complaints from the Public .............................................................. 105
ADMINISTRATION - Accident to Apparatus ...................................................................... 106
ADMINISTRATION - Mutual Aid ........................................................................................ 107
ADMINISTRATION - Media................................................................................................ 109
ADMINISTRATION - Social Media ..................................................................................... 111
SECTION 6: FIRE SERVICES MAINTENANCE ...................................................................................... 112
OG 6.0
OG 6.1
OG 6.2
OG 6.3
MAINTENANCE - Apparatus Maintenance ........................................................................ 112
MAINTENANCE - Fire Hose Annual Pressure Test .......................................................... 113
MAINTENANCE - Ground Ladders .................................................................................... 114
MAINTENANCE - Hydrants................................................................................................ 115
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program .................................................................... 116
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6
Part 7
Part 8
Part 9
Purpose and Responsibilities ............................................................................................. 116
Safe Work Procedures ....................................................................................................... 117
Training Fire Department Members ................................................................................... 119
Inspections and Monitoring ................................................................................................ 120
Hazardous Materials and Substances ............................................................................... 122
Monitoring Fire Department Exposure ............................................................................... 123
Medical and Health Monitoring ........................................................................................... 124
First Aid .............................................................................................................................. 125
Accident or Disease Investigation and Records ................................................................ 126
Page ii of iii
Table of Contents
Part 10
Part 11
Part 12
Occupational Health and Safety Committee ...................................................................... 128
Records and Statistics........................................................................................................ 130
Review of the Occupational Health and Safety Program ................................................... 132
APPENDIX B Respiratory Program ...................................................................................................... 133
APPENDIX C Fire Intensity Rank System ............................................................................................ 134
APPENDIX C Fire Intensity Rank System ............................................................................................ 135
APPENDIX C Fire Intensity Rank System ............................................................................................ 136
APPENDIX D Policy F12 CSRD Firefighter/Officer Remuneration .................................................... 137
Page iii of iii
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.0
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY PROGRAM - GENERAL GUIDELINES
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide a safe and healthy workplace and working conditions, and to promote a
positive attitude towards health and safety. To ensure all fire department members
follow safe work practices for designated job duties.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Fire department members shall be familiar with and carry out their responsibilities
specified in the CSRD Fire Services Occupational Health Safety Program.
PROCEDURE:
Refer to Appendix “A”, Fire Services Occupational Health and Safety Program.
REFERENCE:
Workers’ Compensation Act (BC)
Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, Workers’ Compensation Board of
British Columbia.
CSRD Fire Services Occupational Health Safety Program.
Page 1 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.01
EXPOSURE TO DISEASES
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish procedures for managing and reporting exposure of all fire department
members to diseases including airborne, blood borne, blood or body fluids, nonimpact skin, percutaneous or permucosal exposure.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
A fire department member who is exposed to any communicable disease will be
offered testing and treatment by a responsible medical authority. Proper protective
equipment will be utilized at all incidents. All exposures will be documented and
reported to the Fire Chief or Safety Officer.
PROCEDURE:
Avoid contact with patient’s body fluids at all times, especially if there are open
wounds or a rash on the face, hands, or arms. Wear latex gloves at all times when in
direct contact with a patient’s body. Use a surgical mask and eye protection if
required. Members should not wipe their nose, mouth, or eyes with their hands until
after they have washed. See SOG 1.2.1 Protective Clothing Inspection & Cleaning
for direction on contaminated clothing.
When exposure occurs, the fire department member will follow proper first aid
treatment including identifying the source, if possible. Record the name, telephone
number, and parent or guardian if possible (relevant for serology test).
Notify the immediate supervisor of the incident.
WCB Forms will be completed by the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (as the
Employer). The Fire Chief will contact the CSRD Fire Services Coordinator to start
this process, supplying all information required.
REFERENCE:
WCB Publication – Blood Borne Pathogens
Page 2 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.1
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION GUIDELINES
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To require fire department members to follow safe work practices for designated job
duties which shall include provisions for the wearing of approved respiratory
protection equipment.
SCOPE:
All fire department members who, in the course of duty, may be exposed to
respiratory hazards.
GUIDELINE:
Every fire department member who, in the course of duty may be exposed to
respiratory hazards will be trained in the use, limitations, maintenance and
regulations regarding self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and will subscribe
to the Columbia Shuswap Regional District Fire Services Respiratory Protection
Program.
PROCEDURE:
Refer to Appendix “B”, Fire Services Respiratory Protection Program
REFERENCE:
CSRD Fire Services Respiratory Protection Program.
Sections 8.32 – 8.45 and 31.19 – 31.26 of the Occupational Health and Safety
Regulation, under the Workers’ Compensation Act
IFSTA Essentials of Fire Fighting Training Manual – most recent edition
Page 3 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.02
CRITICAL INCIDENT STRESS MANAGEMENT
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To ensure that all fire department members are provided with Critical Incident Stress
counselling when required.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
The fire department will provide Critical Incident Stress assistance and intervention
as necessary after any critical incident.
PROCEDURE:
The Fire Chief or Officer in Charge shall ensure that defusing and debriefing sessions
are held following significant or critical incidents.
When required, the Fire Chief shall arrange for follow-up assistance for any fire
department member requesting assistance.
Any incident faced or encountered by fire department members that causes them to
experience a distressing reaction may be considered for Critical Incident Stress
counselling.
The Fire Chief or Officer in Charge will make every effort to minimize exposure to
critical incidents without interfering with on-going operations.
The Fire Chief or Officer in Charge will be alert for acute stress reactions and provide
support, encouragement and consultation and will where necessary, implement the
appropriate steps at the scene to assist fire department members in dealing with
stress reactions.
INTERVENTION
PROCESS:
Upon recognition of the need, or upon request by a fire department member at the
scene, the Fire Chief or the Officer in Charge will initiate the following steps in the
intervention process:
 Defusing: May be asked for by any fire department member participating in
an incident and will take place as soon as possible after return to the Hall. Any
obvious signs of distress and/or depression of fire department members
present will be noted by the person facilitating the defusing session and a
recommendation will be made that full debriefing session take place. Only fire
department members involved in the incident will participate in the defusing.
Arrangements will be made to hold a formal debriefing, if necessary. A
defusing is not a critique of department operations at the incident, nor will
performance be discussed.
 Debriefing: If necessary, debriefing will be arranged by the Fire Chief and
Incident Commander and will be held as soon as possible after the incident.
Debriefings will be only for those fire department members involved in the
incident.
(cont)
Page 4 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.02
CRITICAL INCIDENT STRESS MANAGEMENT
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
 Follow-up Assistance: Will be provided by the department as necessary.
Where the Fire Chief is aware of individual problems, or receives a request
from a fire department member, follow-up assistance or referral through the
Fire Fighters Insurance Carrier will be arranged.
TRAINING:
Critical Incident Stress general awareness and management training should be
provided to all fire department members.
REFERENCE:
Section 31.5(c) of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations under the
Workers’ Compensation Act
CSRD Fire Services Occupational Health and Safety Program.
Page 5 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.2
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT - Inspection and Use
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines for the use of protective clothing and equipment by fire
department members, and to ensure that all fire department members are prepared
to commence operations immediately on arrival at an emergency scene while
maintaining the highest degree of personal safety.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment will be worn by all fire
department members at the scene of any emergency incident or training exercise.
PROCEDURE:
The Fire Chief, or Officer in Charge, is responsible to ensure that fire department
members abide by policies regarding the use of protective clothing and equipment.
Full personal protective clothing will consist of helmet with face shield, hood
(balaclava), turnout coat, turnout pants, rubber boots with safety toes, and gloves.
Personal protective equipment will consist of personal protective clothing plus any
additional clothing or equipment as detailed below:
 reflective equipment providing the same amount of reflective material coverage
as turnout gear while directing or working around moving vehicles
 SCBA worn in accordance with OGs
 protective hearing devices will be worn when operating chain saws or K-12
saws
 protective leggings will be worn while operating chain saws or K-12 saws,
except while carrying out ventilation procedures, in which case full turnout gear
is acceptable, and
 goggles and hearing protectors as appropriate.
All fire department members are directly responsible for their own personal safety
and will utilize proper protective clothing as prescribed within this Guideline.
All equipment will be issued by the department. Alterations to any equipment, such
as the removal of the coat liner, are prohibited.
Protective equipment will be worn by all fire department members according to the
following guidelines:
 Under no circumstances is any aspect of personal safety to be sacrificed in
order to increase the speed of emergency operations.
 All fire department members will wear full protective clothing when responding
to any type of alarm. All protective clothing will be donned prior to boarding
the apparatus. Full turnout is optional for drivers during the response;
however, it will be available in case it is required.
 All fire department members will wear appropriate, full protective equipment
during training exercises and emergency incidents unless specifically directed
by the Officer in Charge.
(cont)
Page 6 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.2
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT - Inspection and Use
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
 Work boots, coveralls, gloves and hard hats may be substituted for protective
clothing when fighting grass or bush fires.
 Fire department members operating at the scene of a medical incident will
wear protective equipment that is necessary to assure personal safety during
the incident.
 Gloves will be worn at all times when hand tools, power tools, hose, ladders, or
any other equipment is used that could cause injuries to the hands.
 Ear and eye protection must be worn at all times when operating power saws
or other equipment that may expose firefighters to high levels of noise or eye
hazards.
 Helmets will be worn during firefighting operations or where there is danger
from falling objects.
 Reflective safety vests will be worn when responding to a MVA or other
incident where there may be hazards from vehicle traffic.
 Damage to personal protective clothing will be immediately reported to the Fire
Chief or Officer in Charge. The Fire Chief, or designate, will inspect the
damaged article and have it replaced or repaired, as necessary. Clothing
damaged such that its protective ability is impaired will be replaced.
 The Officer in Charge will determine the appropriate level of protective
equipment required for fire department members operating at incidents where
no specific guidelines have been established. Circumstances may arise when
it is preferable to allow less than full protective equipment such as removal of
turnout coats by fire department members carrying equipment in the hot sun to
prevent heat stroke. In all cases, however, fire department members will wear
protective equipment necessary to protect against all hazards.
Upon resignation, a fire department member will return all of their personal protective
equipment and gear to the Fire Chief, or designate.
Fire department members who respond to any call or practice without full protective
turnout gear will be limited to duties they have suitable protective gear for. Activities,
such as size-up, staging, and accountability, can be done with limited personal
protective equipment. The Officer in Charge will determine who will be allowed to
take part in the fire call or practice to the extent that they lack the required equipment.
Each member will ensure that their own personal protective clothing is maintained in
good condition. Turn out gear will be washed regularly and not less than every six
months. During each year the Fire Chief, or designate, will ensure that an inspection
of all protective clothing for each fire department member has been completed to the
manufacturers specifications. This inspection will be confirmed by completion of the
Personal Protective Clothing Inspection report.
(cont)
Page 7 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.2
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT - Inspection and Use
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
ATTACHMENT:
Personal Protective Clothing Inspection Report.
REFERENCE:
Sections 31.10 – 31.18 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation under the
Workers’ Compensation Act.
Refer also to Part 8 Occupational Health and Safety Regulation for general
requirements, as well as Part 19 (Electrical Safety) for personal protective equipment
required for work involving electrical hazards
Page 8 of 139
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING INSPECTION REPORT
Name
Date
Helmet
Hood
Coat
Pants
Gloves
Page 9 of 139
Boots
Fire
Resistant
Coveralls
Wash
Initials
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.2.1
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT - Clothing Inspection and Cleaning
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To ensure that all fire department members’ personal protective equipment is
maintained in a clean and functional condition.
SCOPE:
All fire department members involved that are issued with personal protective
equipment.
GUIDELINE:
Personal protective equipment will be inspected regularly for defects and cleaned to
manufacturer’s specifications when required to remove contamination and to ensure
its durability and maximum life expectancy.
PROCEDURE:
Turnout clothing will be washed as needed as per manufacturer’s guidelines to
remove any buildup of unburned hydrocarbons or other materials. Prolonged periods
without cleaning cause a deterioration of the fire retardant properties of turnout
clothing and the buildup of unburned hydrocarbons increases flammability.
Turnout clothing is not to be cleaned in commercial laundromats.
Short durations of exposure to heavy concentrations of unburned hydrocarbons can
cause the same effect as to prolonged exposure and turnout clothing should be
treated accordingly.
Members must be aware of the hazards from fabrics that melt, drip, shrink or transmit
heat more easily. These fabrics may cause burns compared to standard uniform
under protective clothing.
Members will bag and tag biologically contaminated (body fluids or blood borne
pathogens) clothing (turnout jacket, turnout pant and hood). The gear will then be
sent for decontamination. Members will clean and disinfect shells, boots and mask
with a 10% bleach and water solution.
REFERENCE:
Sections 31.11, 31.12, 31.15 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation under
the Workers’ Compensation Act (refer also to Part 8 of that regulation).
Page 10 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.2.2
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT - Personal Alert Safety Devices
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish an alerting system for fire department members in jeopardy.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
No fire department member will enter hazardous environments without a personal
alert safety device. Upon hearing the continuous sounding of any PASS alarm, a roll
call will be initiated by the Officer in Charge and search and rescue efforts will
commence as soon as possible.
PROCEDURE:
All air packs shall be equipped with PASS alarm devices.
PASS alarm devices will be activated prior to entry of any building or area requiring
the use of breathing apparatus.
Failure of a PASS device to test properly when initially activated will require the unit
to be replaced prior to any hazardous environment entry.
Testing of personal alert safety devices will be done after every use and on a weekly
basis. Testing will be done according to the manufacturers’ instruction sheet,
recorded and kept on file at the fire department.
REFERENCE:
Sections 31.18 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation under the Workers’
Compensation Act
NFPA 1982, ‘Personal Alert Safety Systems (PASS) for Firefighters’
Page 11 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.2.3
EQUIPMENT SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE - Turnout Gear
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines for the transport and storage of turnout gear.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
All turnout gear will be properly stored at fire halls and will be transported by fire
department emergency vehicles only.
PROCEDURE:
Turnout gear should be kept in the fire hall on a proper clothing rack designed for the
gear.
Members should respond to their respective fire halls to obtain their turnout gear
before going to an emergency scene. Due to geographic challenges, turnout gear
may be carried in acceptable personal equipment bags and left on an apparatus in
the fire hall. If this practice is utilized, the turnout gear must be fully dried before
being placed into the equipment bag.
Caution- Wet turnout gear has been found to create mould which could cause
respiratory problems, and will cause premature deterioration of the gear.
REFERENCE:
CSRD Fire Services Occupational Health and Safety Program
Page 12 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.2.4
EQUIPMENT SAFETY AND MAINTENANCE - Self Contained Breathing Apparatus
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To ensure that all Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) is properly cleaned
and maintained to provide for safe operation and use.
SCOPE:
All fire department members required to use, clean or maintain SCBA. Departments
required to service and repair SCBA
GUIDELINE:
All SCBA will be cleaned and maintained, or serviced and repaired in accordance
with the CSRD Fire Services Respiratory Protection Program, WorkSafe BC
requirements and each manufacturer’s guidelines.
PROCEDURE:
The fire department member will clean and inspect his or her SCBA as soon as
possible, in accordance with the CSRD Fire Services Respiratory Protection
Program, and the relevant manufacturer’s guidelines, after each use. SCBA should
be externally inspected at least monthly even if it has not been used in training or at
an incident.
SCBA will be serviced and repaired by qualified persons. The fire department will
arrange for servicing and repairs.
Inspection of compressed air cylinders must be done in accordance with CSA
Standard CAN/CSA-Z94.4-02, Selection, Use, and Care of Respirators
Compressed air cylinders must be hydrostatically tested in accordance with CSA
Standard CAN/CSA-B339-96, Cylinders, Spheres, and Tubes for the Transportation
of Dangerous Goods.
Complete maintenance and repair records for each SCBA and all air cylinders must
be kept in accordance with the requirements of CSA Standard CAN/CSA-Z94.4-02,
Selection, Use, and Care of Respirators (section 10.3.3.2.2-b to f, inclusive).
REFERENCE:
CSRD Fire Services Occupational Health and Safety Program
CSRD Fire Services Respiratory Protection Program
IFSTA Essentials of Fire Fighting Training Manual
Sections 31.12 and 31.18 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation under
the Workers’ Compensation Act
WorkSafe BC Guidelines – G31.26: Maintenance and Inspection of Self-Contained
Breathing Apparatus
CSA Standard CAN/CSA-B339-96, Cylinders, Spheres, and Tubes for the
Transportation of Dangerous Goods
CSA Standard CAN/CSA-Z94.4-02, Selection, Use, and Care of Respirators
Page 13 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.3
INCIDENT SAFETY - Fire Department Members Accountability (Passport)
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish a system to account for the location and safety of all fire department
members within an emergency incident or training session.
SCOPE:
All fire department members in attendance at emergency incidents and training
session.
GUIDELINE:
All fire departments will use the Emergency Incident Accountability (Passport or Tag)
system in conjunction with the Incident Command System to identify individual fire
department members on scene at an emergency incident or at a training session.
PROCEDURE:
Incident Commanders at an incident may assign an Accountability Officer to use the
Passport or Tag system to account for all members within their direct span of control.
All fire department members will be accountable for the safety of themselves and
other members of the team.
Passports and/or name tags will be properly utilized in the operation of the passport
system. All fire department members attending emergencies incidents or training
sessions will tag into the fire department’s accountability system.
A Personnel Accountability Report (PAR) will be conducted immediately when the
Incident Commander is informed of the possibility that a fire department member or
team is missing or trapped.
Search and rescue efforts will commence as soon as possible at the last known
location of the missing fire department member(s).
If it becomes evident that a structure failure is imminent, an evacuation order will be
initiated in accordance with O.G. 1.3.6.
If a fire department member arrives on scene at the staging area in a private vehicle
they will report to the Officer in Charge of Accountability and tag in. If they do not
have their tag on them the Officer in Charge of Accountability will give the fire
department member a phantom accountability tag.
At the termination of the incident the Officer in Charge of Accountability will ensure
that all fire department members have checked in and collected their tags.
REFERENCE:
BCERMS Standard – ICS 100
Sections 31.5(1) of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation under the
Workers’ Compensation Act
Page 14 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.3.1
INCIDENT SAFETY - Safety Officer
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To ensure the health and safety of fire department members at emergency incidents.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
At all incidents, the Incident Commander will be responsible for the safety of fire
department members.
The Incident Commander will act as the Safety Officer for all incidents and will
implement an independent Safety Officer when, in his or her sole discretion, a Safety
Officer is warranted, subject to adequate resources being available.
PROCEDURE:
The Safety Officer will monitor safety conditions and develop measures for ensuring
the safety of all assigned fire department members. Personnel safety is the principle
focus of responsibility of the Safety Officer. The Safety Officer will monitor personnel
for exhaustion and effects of combustible or toxic materials.
The Safety Officer, under the direction of the Incident Commander, is authorized to
and shall immediately stop any unsafe work practices witnessed. This should be
done in consultation with the Incident Commander.
Firefighters who have successfully completed all of the following training courses can
fill the position of Incident Safety Officer:




REFERENCE:
BC Basic Firefighting Program
ISO
Electrical Safety Training
Strategies and Tactics
BCERMS Standard – ICS 100
Page 15 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.3.2
INCIDENT SAFETY - Incident Rehabilitation Sector
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To ensure a rehabilitation sector is established for the health and safety of fire
department members at emergency incidents.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
A rehabilitation sector will be established at all major incidents for monitoring and
refreshing fire department members who have performed strenuous physical
activities or where exposure effects from heat or cold exist. Major incidents include all
structure fires or incidents that will extend beyond two hours.
PROCEDURE:
At major incidents, a rehabilitation officer will be appointed by the Incident
Commander to establish, monitor and control the rehabilitation of firefighters, or the
Incident Commander will contact fire dispatch and request a rehabilitation team.
When available, ambulance personnel will be assigned to this sector to assist in
monitoring and evaluating firefighters. Criteria for evaluating fire department
members in rehab will be heart rate and temperature. Critical levels for increased
rehabilitation requirements are where the heart rate exceeds 110 beats per minute
and/or the temperature exceeds 100.6 degrees Fahrenheit.
Any fire department member performing strenuous physical activities or exposed to
extreme heat or cold will be required to attend rehabilitation after utilizing two air
cylinders at a maximum.
Firefighters will not be reassigned until liquids have been replenished and pulse and
temperature rates have returned to the baseline measurements that are on file for
each firefighter. If the baseline data is not available on scene, firefighters will be
reassigned where the heart rate is less than 110 beats per minute and the
temperature is less than 100.6 degrees Fahrenheit.
REFERENCE:
BCERMS Standards - ICS 100
Section 31.6 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation under the Workers’
Compensation Act
NFPA 1584, ‘Recommended Practice on the Rehabilitation of Members Operating at
Incident Scene Operations and Training Exercises’
See Also: Operational Guideline 1.3.3
Page 16 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.3.3
INCIDENT SAFETY - Operational Readiness and Rehabilitation
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish guidelines for fire department member to monitor their capabilities and
fatigue levels.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Each fire department member will be responsible for ensuring the Officer in Charge is
advised of any limitations or fatigue levels that may affect their ability to adequately
perform assigned duties. Officer must continually observe crew members for signs of
abnormal fatigue.
PROCEDURE:
Preparation: Members should prepare for emergency operations by maintaining an
adequate level of physical strength and stamina, through conditioning of the muscles
and cardiovascular system. Members should maintain proper levels of hydration
during times of high physical activity.
Monitoring: Fire department members engaged in operations which require
strenuous physical exertion will monitor their fatigue levels. Since fatigue lowers
personal perception, fire department members will monitor each other for signs of
fatigue.
Treating Fatigue: The "two air cylinder rule", or forty-five (45) minutes of strenuous
work time, will be considered to be the acceptable level prior to mandatory
rehabilitation. Treatment for fatigue will be rest and rehydration until recovery.
Rest: Rest will not be less than ten minutes and can exceed an hour as determined
by the rehab officer. Criteria for evaluating members will be heart rate and
temperature. Heart rates in excess of 110 beats per minute and/or temperature in
excess of 100.6 degrees Fahrenheit will require extended rehabilitation. Ambulance
personnel or members of the rehabilitation team will be assigned to this sector when
available to assist with the monitoring and evaluation of firefighters.
In the absence of ambulance personnel, heart rate will be the criteria for evaluating
fire department members in rehab at a minimum.
Rehydration: A critical factor in the prevention of heat stress is the maintenance of
water and electrolytes. Water is the key element to hydrate firefighters. Fire
department members assigned to the rehab sector will be responsible for replacing
lost fluids during physical exertion at a rate of at least one quarter litre for each air
cylinder consumed (or equivalent work). In general, one litre of water will be
consumed per hour.
Nourishment: The fire department will provide nourishment at extended operations.
The Incident Commander can contact fire dispatch to request resources to provide
nourishment support.
Page 17 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.3.4
INCIDENT SAFETY - Electrical Emergency Safety
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To require firefighters to follow safe work practices involving electricity, including
downed power lines.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Fire department members will not handle downed power lines, or enter an identified
electrical hazard area, until power is confirmed to be off and the electrical hazard
area declared to be safe to enter by an on-scene BC Hydro crew. Fire department
members will use appropriate safety precautions around any electrical equipment or
electrical hazards. A safety perimeter of at least 10 meters will be clearly identified
around downed lines and other electrical safety hazards.
PROCEDURE:
All downed power lines will be considered live until a BC Hydro crew arrives on
scene, mitigates the hazard, and communicates to the on-scene Incident
Commander, face-to-face, that the electrical hazard has been mitigated and the
scene is safe to enter.
A 10 meter safety perimeter will be established. The Incident Commander will clearly
communicate with all on-scene responders that an electrical hazard exists and that a
safety perimeter is in place. The 10 meter safety perimeter will not be entered for
any reason until the on-scene BC Hydro crew informs the Incident Commander that
the electrical hazard has been mitigated and the scene is safe to enter. The Incident
Commander will communicate with all responders advising when the scene is safe to
enter. At no time will an over the phone or over the radio “all clear to enter the
electrical hazard area” be accepted from BC Hydro, or from any agency. The
Incident Commander may conduct operations inside the 10 meter safety perimeter
after receiving confirmation from the on-scene BC Hydro crew that the electrical
hazard has been mitigated and the scene is safe to enter.
Damaged kiosks and other electrical vaults will be treated in the same manner.
Meters will only be removed by BC Hydro personnel.
The handling of, and operations around, electrical hazards and electrical equipment
will follow all procedures and practices outlined in the BC Hydro Electrical Safety for
Firefighters.
Advise persons trapped in vehicles that they are in the electrical hazard area and to
stay put until the electrical hazard has been mitigated.
Fire department members may be tasked to provide perimeter control for a short
term. For extended durations, the Incident Commander should contact fire dispatch
and request traffic control resources.
REFERENCE:
IFSTA Essentials of Fire Fighting Training Manual
BC Hydro Electrical Safety for Firefighters
Workers’ Compensation Board Regulations
Page 18 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.3.5
INCIDENT SAFETY - Rapid Intervention Team
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To increase the overall level of safety for all fire department members. The Rapid
Intervention Team (RIT) will have a fully equipped rescue team on site, in a ready
state and prepared to react and respond to rescue injured or trapped fire department
members.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
The RIT will be established within ten (10) minutes of the entry of the initial attack
team, and before a second entry team is sent in. This is done at all offensive attack
structure fires and other incidents where fire department members are subject to
hazards that would be immediately dangerous to life and/or health in the event of an
equipment failure, sudden change of conditions, or mishap.
PROCEDURE:
Initial Rapid Intervention: A minimum of four (4) fire department members will be
assembled at the scene prior to conducting an offensive attack; refer to OG 1.3.7.
When two (2) fire department members enter on initial attack, one (1) of the four (4)
will be responsible to operate the pump and perform accountability functions and the
additional person will remain outside maintaining communications and will be
prepared and equipped with PPE, SCBA, and radio to perform immediate rescue.
The fire department members remaining outside the structure (other than the pump
operator) will assist by placing themselves at the exterior of the doorway and feeding
fire hose as required. A second hose will be deployed as soon as possible.
Interior Teams:
Fire department members engaged in offensive structural
firefighting operations will operate in teams of two or more, use a buddy system
within the team, and maintain voice, visual or touch with one another at all times.
Radios will be used for communications between offensive firefighting team(s) and
the Incident Commander.
Establishment: The RIT is made up of a minimum of two (2) fire department
members trained for interior attacks, will be established and suitably equipped on the
scene within ten (10) minutes. The RIT is required after the initial attack and before
sending in a second entry team. The RIT will obtain a briefing from the Officer in
Charge.
The RIT will assume a ready state, with personal protective equipment appropriate to
the hazards, and will have all the appropriate tools for the type of incident such as a
charged hose line long enough to access the furthest point, lanterns, forcible entry
tools, hose straps, radios, and SCBA packs.
The designated individuals of an RIT may take on other tasks provided such tasks do
not interfere with the responsibility to account for those individuals in the hazard area.
Any task being performed by the RIT will be such that it can be abandoned without
placing other fire department members (or other persons at the incident) at additional
risk if the RIT team must provide rescue or assistance to the attack team.
(cont)
Page 19 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.3.5
INCIDENT SAFETY - Rapid Intervention Team
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
The RIT will remain in readiness until the Incident Commander declares the incident
under control and there is no longer an Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health
(IDLH) atmosphere.
RIT Activation: Upon report of a lost, trapped, or missing firefighter, an “emergency
traffic” signal will be initiated. The Incident Commander will deploy the RIT to the last
reported location of the fire department member(s). The RIT will be assigned a
Rescue Group designation. Whenever a RIT is deployed it shall be replaced as soon
as possible with a minimum of four (4) fire department members, trained for interior
attack, to back up crews involved in the rescue operation.
Members that have completed the following training courses can participate as a
member of the Rapid Intervention Team:





REFERENCE:
Regional District Basic Firefighting Program
Live Fire I
Live Fire II
Rapid Intervention Team
ISO
Section 31.23 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation under the Workers’
Compensation Act
NFPA 1407 – ‘Standard for Training Fire Service Rapid Intervention Crews’
Page 20 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.3.6
INCIDENT SAFETY - Emergency Evacuation Alert
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish a procedure that ensures all fire department members are promptly
alerted when an emergency scene must be immediately evacuated.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
When the Incident Commander determines that the conditions at an incident have or
may soon deteriorate to the point where fire department members working within the
hazard area may be in danger, an emergency evacuation order will be issued.
Fire department members shall immediately leave the danger area and report to the
Officer in Charge of Accountability.
PROCEDURE:
When the Incident Commander determines it is necessary for crews to evacuate an
emergency scene the following procedure will be followed:
 The Incident Commander will broadcast a message over the radio that all crews
are to evacuate the scene immediately, as well as command the sounding of the
apparatus’ horns continuously.
 Upon evacuation all fire department members are to report to the Officer in Charge
of Accountability.
 When evacuation is complete the Officer in Charge of Accountability will conduct a
roll call of all fire department members involved at the emergency scene.
Page 21 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.3.7
INCIDENT SAFETY - Initial Fire Attack Team
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish criteria for the initial fire attack team at structure fires.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
A minimum of four (4) fire department members (including the Incident Commander)
will be assembled on the fire ground before attempting offensive suppression of
rescue operations in a building or enclosed structure that is involved in a fire situation
beyond the incipient stage.
PROCEDURE:
When self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is required to enter a building, or
similar enclosed location, the entry will be made by a team of at least two (2) fire
department members. Effective voice communication will be maintained between fire
department members inside and outside the enclosed location. With a minimum
team of four (4) fire department members enter on initial attack, one (1) of the four (4)
will operate the pump and perform accountability functions and the additional person
will remain outside maintaining communications and be prepared and equipped with
PPE, SCBA and radio to perform immediate rescue if required.
Where less than four (4) fire department members are actually assembled on the fire
ground, only exterior defensive firefighting operations will be initiated until additional
fire department members arrive on scene. This could include establishing water
supply, laying attack lines and defensive attack.
The second team arriving at the incident scene will establish a Rapid Intervention
Team in accordance with OG 1.3.5. Subsequent teams will back-up the first team or
can be assigned according to the needs of the incident.
Members who have completed the Regional District Basic Firefighting Program as
well as Live Fire I and Live Fire II can engage in offensive interior operations on the
fire ground.
Page 22 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.3.8
INCIDENT SAFETY - Fire Department Members Risk
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish risk guidelines for fire ground operations.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Fire departments will extend every reasonable effort to the saving of life and
protection of property.
Within the scope of this guideline there shall be a balance of fire department
members’ safety and welfare in relation to the protection of life and property. In all
cases, fire department members safety shall be considered ahead of property.
PROCEDURE:
At the discretion of the Incident Commander, activities that present a significant risk
to the safety of fire department members will be limited to situations where there is a
potential to save endangered lives. Fire conditions, stage of development, time of
exposure and related effects will be considered in the extent of actions employed.
Activities that are routinely employed to protect or save property are to be recognized
as inherent risks to the safety of fire department members, and action will be taken to
reduce or avoid these risks.
No risk to the safety of fire department members is acceptable when there is no
possibility of saving lives or salvaging property.
No risk to the safety of fire department members will be acceptable for training
exercises or for the rescue of pets or animals.
Page 23 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.3.9
INCIDENT SAFETY - Traffic Control
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide traffic control to ensure safety for emergency responders, patients and
members of the public.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
The Incident Commander will ensure that effective traffic control is established at all
emergency incidents to provide for the safety of all emergency responders, patients
and members of the public.
PROCEDURE:
Where it is evident that traffic control will be required to provide a safe working area
the Incident Commander will immediately request RCMP assistance for traffic control
or contact fire dispatch and request the support of a traffic control company.
Fire department members will provide temporary traffic control to ensure fire
department members’ safety. Fire department members will wear appropriate turnout
gear, including a helmet and traffic vest.
Only fire department members that have BC Construction Authority Traffic Control
Certification are authorized to provide traffic control service.
During the course of an incident, Incident Commanders will ensure that apparatus
operators utilize traffic cones to provide a safe working area for fire department
members.
Invoices for private traffic control services will be directed to the utility agency that is
responsible for the incident (downed power lines, MVI, etc.)
REFERENCE:
Part 18 and section 31.5(1)(d) of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation
under the Workers’ Compensation Act
Page 24 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.3.10 INCIDENT SAFETY - Prevention of Workplace Violence Procedures - On Scene
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish Prevention of Workplace Violence Procedures for the purpose of
preventing or defusing incidents of workplace violence through training and
communications.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
The Incident Commander will identify and react to situations that involve, or are likely
to involve, violence. All fire department members will be familiar with, and carry out,
their responsibilities as established by this guideline.
PROCEDURE:
When fire department members are dispatched to an incident where known or
suspected violence is a threat, the Incident Commander will communicate directly or
through dispatch with the RCMP to ensure the safety of fire department members.
Code 33 is used to inform fire dispatch of the immediate need of the RCMP.
In such violent situations, the Incident Commander will stage all fire department
resources in a safe area until the RCMP has secured the scene.
When violence occurs after emergency operations have been initiated, the Incident
Commander will either:

secure immediate RCMP protection, or

withdraw all fire department members to a safe staging area.
At all incidents where crowd control is required the Incident Commander will:

establish a working area

ensure the safety of fire department members, and

take steps to protect the safety of the public.
The Incident Commander will establish a ‘Fire Line’ and will identify the area to be
controlled to the RCMP, who will assume responsibility for keeping unauthorized
persons outside the area.
Should fire department members encounter interference from anyone at the scene of
an incident, a specific request will be made to the RCMP by the Incident Commander
identifying the type of problem encountered and the desired action required.
If unexpectedly faced with a threatening action of violence at any time, the Incident
Commander, or individual involved, will attempt to defuse the situation depending on
the risk.
(cont)
Page 25 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.3.10 INCIDENT SAFETY - Prevention of Workplace Violence Procedures - On Scene
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
If caught in this situation the fire department member will assess their:




means of egress (for immediate escape if needed)
aggressor’s state of mind (alcohol or drugs involved)
environment (protection, weapons that could be used against them), and
means of obtaining assistance.
The fire department member will also:




maintain a minimum seven (7) foot “Safe Zone”
not turn their back on the individual
back away if an individual walks towards them
call another fire department member for assistance (if the Incident Commander
is unavailable at that time, the Incident Commander will be notified as soon as
is possible)
 write down pertinent information and facts, to be given to the Incident
Commander as soon as practical
 watch the direction the individual moves
 be available to co-workers, supervisors, and/or RCMP.
Defusing (calming) the individual will be attempted by:
 speaking to the person (to determine the focus of the aggression)
 directing the individual to the Incident Commander or RCMP, after forewarning
that individual of the situation
 providing assistance to the individual if feasible, and/or
 discontinuing communications if the individual becomes more agitated.
Upon returning to the Hall, the Incident Commander and individual fire department
members involved will complete a report on the incident. Copies will be distributed to
the, Fire Chief and the Safety Officer who will distribute them to the Occupational
Health and Safety Committee and the Fire Services Coordinator. Where
circumstances are such that the incident could likely be repeated, all fire department
members will be notified in a timely fashion.
The Fire Chief or Incident Commander will require any fire department member to
attend rehabilitation, and/or critical incident debriefing at any time, as deemed
necessary.
REFERENCE:
Sections 4.27 – 4.31 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation under the
Workers’ Compensation Act
Page 26 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.4
VEHICLE RESPONSE SAFETY - Warning Devices in Emergency Operations
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To ensure the safe operation of fire department vehicles when responding to
emergencies and that fire department vehicles are operated in conformance with the
BC Motor Vehicle Act.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Emergency situations are defined as those situations where life and/or property are
directly endangered. The fire department will utilize warning devices on emergency
vehicles in accordance with the BC Motor Vehicle Act.
PROCEDURE:
Emergency Vehicle Warning Devices: Emergency vehicles will respond on an
emergency basis only when all warning devices are in continuous operation.
All fire department members are responsible for ensuring for the safety of the fire
department members and citizens when vehicles are responding to incidents.
Drivers will use good judgement when driving the apparatus to an incident.
Fire department members will use their judgement to vary the siren tone in order to
ensure every effort is made to alert the public when approaching and proceeding
through an intersection or approaching from behind.
The air horn is permitted to be used in connection with the siren.
The Officer in Charge will ensure that a barricade formed by safety cones is
established in the area of operations at the earliest possible instance.
This barricade will be arranged in such a fashion as to protect the fire department
members from vehicular traffic and to give motorists adequate warning to stop their
vehicles. The barricade will be removed when the need for such protection has
terminated.
Red and amber emergency lights will remain on until after conclusion of the
operation.
REFERENCE:
BC Motor Vehicle Act s. 122
Emergency Vehicle Driving Regulation, BC Reg. 136/2007
Page 27 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.4.1
VEHICLE RESPONSE SAFETY - Warning Devices in Non-Emergency Operations
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To ensure the safe operation of fire department vehicles when responding to nonemergency situations and to ensure that fire department vehicles are operated in
conformance with the BC Motor Vehicle Act.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Non-emergency situations are defined as those situations where life and property are
not directly endangered. The fire department will operate vehicles during nonemergencies in accordance with the BC Motor Vehicle Act.
PROCEDURE:
Vehicles responding to non-emergency type incidents, such as public assists, will not
use red lights and siren (routine mode).
Red lights will be used when backing off of a roadway, and backing into quarters.
During fire hall tours, pumper demonstrations, etc., red lights and sirens shall be
used as part of demonstrations as long as this use is determined to be safe and will
not confuse adjacent motorists and citizens.
Fire department members will use their discretion to avoid public confusion when
discontinuing the use of warning devices after being cancelled from an emergency
response.
Fire department apparatus, when involved in non-emergency situations, will be driven
and parked in accordance with the posted signage.
If, while conducting non-emergency business, it is not possible to park in compliance
with posted signage, or if fire department vehicles encroach upon a travelled
thoroughfare to the extent that they present a hazard Officers will ensure that parking
complies with Operational Guideline 1.4.
REFERENCE:
BC Motor Vehicle Act
Page 28 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.4.2
VEHICLE RESPONSE SAFETY - Vehicle Response Safety
Effective Date: October 18, 2013
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To ensure the safe and efficient response of fire department members and apparatus
during emergency and non-emergency operations.
SCOPE:
All fire department members
GUIDELINE:
The driver of any fire department vehicle bears full responsibility for adherence to this
guideline and conformance with the BC Motor Vehicle Act.
The driver of any fire department vehicle responding to an incident will continually
assess whether exercising the privileges of Section 122(41) of the BC Motor Vehicle
Act pose an inordinate risk to members of the public.
PROCEDURE:
The driver of an emergency vehicle may exercise the privileges granted in Section
122(1) of the BC Motor Vehicle Act, in accordance with the provision of the
Emergency Vehicle Driving Regulation BC Reg. 136/2007. The right to exercise the
powers in section 122(1) of the Motor Vehicle Act is permitted where the vehicle
operator has reasonable grounds to believe that the risk of harm to members of the
public from the exercise of those privileges is less than the risk of harm to members
of the public should those privileges not be exercised.
The driver must take into account factors such as:




the nature, use and condition of the highway
the amount of traffic
visibility, and
pedestrians.
Driver Training: Only fire department members who have the necessary licenses
and endorsements for the apparatus being operated, as required by the BC Motor
Vehicle Act, who have completed the fire department’s Emergency Vehicle Operator
(EVO) training program, and who are acceptable to the Officer in Charge, will be
permitted to drive department vehicles, except when under supervision of a trainer for
the purpose of driver training.
Vehicle Readiness: The driver of any fire department vehicle is responsible to
ensure that the vehicle is in a state of readiness at all times. The driver will ensure
that all equipment is in place and stored safely and that all doors are closed and
secure prior to exiting the Hall.
Secure Positions: The driver of any fire department vehicle will not move the
vehicle until all passengers have signalled that they are in a secure position within the
body of the vehicle. Riding in a non-secure position is prohibited.
Seat belts and hearing protection will be used by all fire department members when
equipment is in motion. (Hearing protection not required if windows are closed)
No person will be permitted to ride on the tailboard.
(cont)
Page 29 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.4.2
VEHICLE RESPONSE SAFETY - Vehicle Response Safety
Effective Date: October 18, 2013
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
Exiting the Fire hall: The driver is to be aware of other vehicles leaving the Hall and
check for pedestrians and vehicles within the vicinity of the Hall. On leaving the Hall,
the driver will lightly apply the brakes to ensure their proper operation. The driver will
also sound the horn indicating that the apparatus is about to move forward.
Warning Devices and Vehicle Lights: Warning devices and vehicle lights will be
operated in conformance with OGs 1.4 and 1.4.1.
Speed: The driver will maintain a speed consistent with safe operation of the vehicle
under prevailing conditions. If conditions permit, the maximum speed limit may be
exceeded, in accordance with the BC Motor Vehicle Act.
Driving in the Oncoming Traffic Lane: Driving in the oncoming traffic lane is
dangerous and will be avoided whenever possible. If it is necessary to drive in the
oncoming traffic lane, extreme caution will be exercised and a safe operating speed
maintained.
Intersections: Intersections are dangerous areas to approach during an emergency
response. The following precautions will be observed by all responding vehicles:
 When a responding vehicle must approach an intersection in the oncoming
traffic lane the driver will come to a complete stop until other traffic in the
intersection has yielded.
 When approaching a controlled intersection with a stop sign or red light, the
driver will come to a complete stop until other traffic in the intersection has
yielded.
 The driver will use good judgement with respect to proceeding through a
intersection, however, the maximum allowable speed through any intersection
will be the posted speed limit.
Passing Emergency Vehicles: Passing other emergency vehicles is dangerous. If
passing is necessary, radio contact will be made with the driver of the other vehicle,
prior to passing.
Driver Attention: The responsibility of the driver during an emergency response will
be to operate the vehicle safely. When another crew member is beside the driver,
the operation of radio and emergency warning devices is to be delegated to that crew
member. If there is no passenger, drivers will operate the radio and emergency
warning devices only if it can be done safely. All fire department members are
responsible for watching for potential hazards.
Cold Weather Precautions: Extreme caution must be exercised by all drivers
during winter road conditions. Chains should be used as required.
(cont)
Page 30 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.4.2
VEHICLE RESPONSE SAFETY - Vehicle Response Safety
Effective Date: October 18, 2013
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
Reduced Response: When the Incident Commander is arriving at an emergency
scene will evaluate the need for other vehicles to continue to respond. Whenever
possible, other responding vehicles not needed at the scene will be advised of a
status change and redirected as required.
Approach Safely: When approaching an emergency scene the driver will watch for
emergency vehicles approaching from other directions. The driver will be on the alert
for civilians, and emergency service personnel who may inadvertently step in front of
the approaching apparatus.
Backing Up: Before backing up Fire department apparatus the driver will ensure
they are guided by at least one other fire department member using recognized hand
signals. This guide will be safely positioned at the rear of the vehicle on the driver
side. The driver will sound the horn indicating that the vehicle is about to back up,
red lights should be on.
Apparatus with Automatic Transmissions: Apparatus equipped with automatic
transmissions must not be kept idling for more than a few minutes at less than 800
RPM engine speed. Even in the neutral position, fluid is not circulating below this
speed and overheating occurs which may cause damage to the transmission.
Personal Vehicles: Fire department members responding to the fire hall or the
incident (report to staging area) are not provided any special privileges and will
adhere to all regulations of the BC Motor Vehicle Act.
Post Trip Inspections: The driver of the apparatus will ensure that a post trip
inspection is conducted on the apparatus upon returning to the Fire Hall and record
inspection data and time on a post trip inspection form. This record is to be kept on
file at the fire hall; duplicate copy to be forwarded to the CSRD.
REFERENCE:
BC Motor Vehicle Act, s. 122
Emergency Vehicle Driving Regulation BC Reg. 136/2007
Workers’ Compensation Board of British Columbia Regulation.
Page 31 of 139
SECTION 1: FIRE SERVICES SAFETY
OG 1.5
SMOKING
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To meet the requirements of WorkSafe BC and provide a Smoke-free atmosphere in
the workplace for all Members..
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
A Department workplace is a "No Smoking" area.
PROCEDURE:
Smoking is prohibited in the workplace. The Term “Workplace” is defined by WorkSafe
BC as:
 any place where a worker is or is likely to be engaged in any work and includes
any vessel, vehicle or mobile equipment used by a worker in work
Emergency Incident sites are part of the workplace
Smoking during outside Drills is prohibited
Smoking during public events is strongly discouraged
Smoking is restricted to outside areas only
Smokers are expected to bear in mind the health of non-smokers and to assist in
maintaining a smoke-free atmosphere
Smoking during breaks at outside Drills is permitted provided the smoke does not enter
the outside Drill area that has been designated by the person conducting the outside
Drill. Cigarette butts should be picked up and any refuse from smoking should be
removed from the work place.
REFERENCE:
Sections 4.81 – 4.82 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation under the
Workers’ Compensation Act
Page 32 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.0
OPERATIONS - Incident Management
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish an incident management system to be applied consistently to all fire
department incident responses.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
The Incident Management System will be applied to all incident responses as laid out
in the British Columbia Emergency Response Management System (BCERMS)
which is also based on ICS as well as the United States (US) Homeland Security
Act’s National Incident Management System’s (NIMS) standard incident command
structure. All fire department members will be familiar with, and carry out, their
responsibilities identified within the ICS.
PROCEDURE:
The first and most senior qualified fire department member will establish command of
the incident and maintain command until properly relieved. The Incident Commander
(IC) will state their establishment of command for the purpose of informing both the
responding units and crew/s, and fire dispatch.
The Incident Commander will:
 conduct a 360o size-up where possible, and broadcast an initial size-up report
to the responding crew/s and fire dispatch. This report should be delivered in
several small transmissions as the IC becomes aware of the information and
will include (in no specific order) the following:
 unit identification and correct address
 what unit is establishing command, where it will be located and the
nature of command
 building size, type and occupancy
 a description of the situation (paint a picture), smoke and/or fire present,
other hazards, exposures, wind, etc. – what have I got?
 identify the strategic/operational mode
 indicated what other resources will be required – what do I need and
where should they stage – a staging location?





request a tactical radio channel if one has not been assigned
question the owner, occupant/s and or bystanders
develop an incident action plan (IAP) to suit the strategic/operational mode
provide for the safety and welfare of the all responding personnel
establish a personnel accountability system using the Regional District
Passport Accountability System
 establish and deploy tactical teams as required
 establish and deploy/assign other functions/roles within the ICS (such as
groups and divisions, command staff, etc.)
 maintain operational control of the incident
(cont)
Page 33 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.0
OPERATIONS - Incident Management
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
The Transfer of Command may take place upon the arrival of a similar rank or senior
officer, or qualified person from another agency or jurisdiction and the following:
 the new potential IC will check in with the current IC (personnel accountability)
and then conduct their own 360o size-up
 then receive a status report from the current IC as to the incident conditions,
personnel assigned to the incident, and tactics and tasks assigned (preferably
face-to-face).
 a broadcast of the assumption of Command by the new IC to all units on scene
with a confirmation from all tactically assigned teams.
The new IC will continue to re-evaluate the incident and make the necessary changes
to the IAP based on the changing conditions of the situation.
The IC will demobilize resources and terminate the incident as conditions dictate.
REFERENCE:
The BCERMS, which is based on the Incident Command System (ICS) and the NIMS
in the US which is also based on the ICS.
Further detailed information about the ICS can be found on the NIMS web site.
Page 34 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.1
OPERATIONS - Response to Calls - Bomb Scare
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish procedures for incidents involving bomb scares or threats.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Bomb scares or threats will be taken seriously and personnel receiving these threats
will take the appropriate actions immediately. Managing these threats is the
responsibility of the RCMP.
PROCEDURE:
Immediately notify your supervisor and contact the local RCMP as soon as possible.
The Incident Commander will notify fire dispatch and request that the RCMP be
called.
Notify the manager/supervisor in charge of the workplace that is subject to the threat.
At the request of the RCMP, fire department members will attend to assist in
evacuation and fire suppression.
All bomb searches will be conducted by the RCMP. Fire department members will
not perform or assist with this function.
Page 35 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.2
OPERATIONS - Dangerous Goods - Biological Weapons Threat
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish the responsibility for responding to incidents involving biological
weapons such as Anthrax, etc.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
The fire department will not respond to biological weapons threats.
responsibility of the RCMP.
PROCEDURE:
In the event the fire department is already on scene when it becomes apparent there
is a confirmed or potential biological hazard present, the Incident Commander will
immediately notify the RCMP.
This is the
The IC will secure the scene and quarantine infected or exposed persons and identify
the suspected contaminant if possible.
Page 36 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.3
OPERATIONS - Responses to Structure Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide fire department members with procedures to follow for responding to
incidents with a fire involved structure.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
DEFINITIONS:
Incident Action Plan
(IAP):
A strategic action plan developed by the Incident
Commander based on the incident priorities, the nature
of the situation at the time, and resources available.
Risk/Benefit Analysis:
A comparison of the risks present in a situation to the
benefits that may be gained.
What level of risk will the responders be subjected to in
relation to the value of the potential benefits.
Interior Operations:
Tactical operations which occur inside the structure(s).
Exterior Operations:
Tactical operations
structure(s).
Primary Search:
A rapid search of all areas involved in or exposed to
fire and/or other hazards, if they can be entered, to
ensure removal and/or safety of occupants.
A quick search of the areas where conditions will put
the occupants at risk; it is for live/saveable victims and
should be considered in the risk/benefit analysis.
Search the immediate fire area and normal exit paths
passing by/working around the severe fire area
conditions.
If possible, the search team should work outward from
the fire area, if not, they should work inward from
normal entry points.
Secondary Search:
A methodical and thorough systematic search of the
interior fire area and surrounding areas after initial fire
control, ventilation, and interior lighting are completed,
to ensure that there is no possibility of victims
remaining undiscovered.
Thoroughness is the critical factor not time.
If possible, a different team from the primary search
team should conduct the secondary search.
Freelancing:
A dangerous and unacceptable occurrence where an
individual engages in tasks or activities without being
formally assigned or directed to do so by their
immediate supervisor; violation of the personnel
accountability procedures.
which
occur
outside
the
(cont)
Page 37 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.3
OPERATIONS - Responses to Structure Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
Fire ground:
The geographical area within the incident perimeter
(hot, warm and cold zones) at the scene of a fire and
secured from access by the general public; areas of
which the Incident Commander is in control.
Structural Fire:
Generally refers to a fire situation that involves the
contents and/or structural elements of buildings, or
other structures.
Offensive
Strategic/Operational
Mode:
Direct actions deployed to achieve the strategic goals
and resolve the incident problems, generally in the form
of aggressive interior tactics.
An advance into the fire involved building/structure by
firefighters with required equipment.
Defensive
Strategic/Operational
Mode:
Actions intended to isolate or stabilize an incident and
prevent it from getting worse or larger.
All actions are conducted outside of the structure.
Firefighters are not allowed to enter the structure or
operate from positions that involve avoidable risks.
Staging:
A marshalling area where responding resources
(apparatus and personnel) report until given an
assignment by the Incident Commander.
Level 1: An initial response location for first incoming
units, staying a safe distance back from the incident
itself (at the corners of the block or several hundred
feet away).
Level 2: A specific location designated by the Incident
Commander for subsequent incoming resources with a
staging manager assigned.
Incident Priorities
The three common incident priorities to be used as a
strategic/operational guide, in the order of importance,
are:
1.
2.
3.
GUIDELINE:
Life Safety – of responders first and the
general public second.
Incident Stabilization – actions taken to
stabilize/control the incident to prevent it from
getting worse, so hold it where it is.
Property and environmental conservation –
when the first two priorities are managed well
this will generally be accomplished.
All fire department members will be knowledgeable of, and will follow, the procedures
provided in this Guideline.
(cont)
Page 38 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.3
OPERATIONS - Responses to Structure Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
PROCEDURE:
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
The Incident Commander will do a thorough size-up/assessment of the incident and
develop an Incident Action Plan (IAP) with the appropriate strategic approach based
upon conditions found, resources available and the three incident priorities.
Additional resources should be requested as required. The Incident Commander’s
first priority is for the safety of fire department members and other responders.
INCIDENT SAFETY:
SAFETY of all fire department members is the first priority. Within the scope of this
guideline there shall be a balance of fire department members’ safety and welfare in
relation to the protection of life and property. In all cases, fire department members’
safety shall be considered ahead of property. (Refer to OG 1.3.8 – Member’s Risk).








The Incident Commander is the Safety Officer until a Safety Officer is
designated. An Incident Safety Officer must be designated at all major
working fires. See OG 1.3.1 Safety Officer.
All fire department members must maintain situational awareness and
monitor for changing fire conditions.
The Incident Commander must perform a full scene size-up to ensure that all
hazards are identified and that the full scope of the situation is observed and
understood. (Refer to OG 2.0 - Incident Command System).
All strategic goals and tactical operations must be limited to the training and
competency levels of the fire department members (and other responders)
available on scene. At no time will any fire department member perform any
task for which they do not have the appropriate training and competencies.
Fire department members must inform the Incident Commander, or Team
Leader, if they are not qualified or do not feel comfortable to perform a tactic
or task that has been assigned to them. (Refer to OG 3.0.1- Training
Standards – Firefighters).
 Firefighters that have completed the BC Basic Fire Fighting Program
(BCBFP) can engage in exterior operations on the fire ground.
 Firefighters that have completed the BCBFP as well as Live Fire I and
Live Fire II can engage in offensive interior operations on the fire ground.
All fire department members will wear the appropriate personal protective
equipment (PPE) while on the Incident Scene. (Refer to OG 1.2 Personal
Protective Clothing and Equipment).
All fire department members must stay constantly alert to changing
conditions that put members in danger such as an imminent collapse. Should
there be a concern for a potential collapse of exterior walls of the structure; a
collapse zone should be established.
It is the responsibility of all fire department members to report any unsafe
conditions and hazards to the Incident Commander or ISO.
Conducting any offensive interior operations such as fire attacks, primary
searches, and secondary searches at structure fires will only occur when the
Incident Commander has conducted a risk/benefit analysis and has
determined that it is safe to do so.
(cont)
Page 39 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.3
OPERATIONS - Responses to Structure Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014








Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
Effective two-way communications will be maintained at all times between
the Incident Commander and assigned team leaders.
When the
communication between the IC and the interior teams is no longer effective,
the teams will exit the structure as soon as possible and re-establish effective
communication prior to re-entry.
The Personnel Accountability System will be used at structure fire incidents.
A Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) will be established at all times when teams
are working in a hazardous Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH)
environment requiring the use of a SCBA as dictated in OG 1.3.5. (Refer to
OG 1.3.5 - Rapid Intervention Team).
A Firefighter Rehab Unit will be established for all major working fires (Refer
to OG 1.3.2).
At no time will any fire department member engage in “freelancing”.
All fire ground operations will be coordinated by the IC or an Operations
Section Chief (when established) to ensure the effectiveness of ongoing life
safety operations.
First aid and other care will be provided to patients in coordination with BCAS
outside of the fire ground hot zone. Fire department members must call for a
mayday as soon as possible when required, reporting nature of emergency,
location, and number of firefighters involved.
Providing for fire ground lighting, both interior and exterior, increases safety
and can assist with fire operations.
RESPONSE:
The first arriving officer or member that is qualified to establish command must follow
the guidelines as outlined in OG # 2.0 “Incident Management”.
LOCATING A FIRE:
 Look for obvious signs of fire and smoke throughout the scene size-up
process.
 Obtain information from building occupants who have already evacuated.
 Check the alarm system and sprinkler system enunciator panel in
alarmed/sprinklered buildings.
INTERIOR OPERATIONS:
Criteria Required for Conducting Interior Operations:
 Conducting any interior operations such as offensive fire attacks, primary
searches, and secondary searches at structure fires will only occur when the
Incident Commander has conducted a risk/benefit analysis and has
determined that it is safe to do so.
 Rapid Intervention Team (Refer to OG 1.3.5 Rapid Intervention Team).
 Fire department members must be trained, qualified and competent to carry
out tactics and tasks assigned. If a fire department member is directed to
carry out a tactic or task for which they are not trained, qualified and/or
competent the fire department member must immediately inform the person
of authority who is giving them that direction. The fire department member
can then be re-assigned to a task for which they are trained, qualified and
competent.
(cont)
Page 40 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.3
OPERATIONS - Responses to Structure Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014






Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
All Team Members and Team Leaders assigned to interior operations must
meet the training requirements set out in OG 3.1.0 – Training Standards –
Live Fire.
Team Leaders will have a:
 demonstrated competency and experience in leading a team
 high skill level and experience in the task/operation they are leading
A minimum of four appropriately trained firefighters must be on scene prior to
conducting any offensive interior operations at any structure.
For small structure fires a minimum of 1500 gallons of water must be
available on scene, or a minimum of 750 gallons of water must be available
on scene initially in the apparatus tank with a minimum of 750 gallons known
to be arriving on scene within 10 minutes of the first in engine arriving prior to
any fire department members entering the structure fire.
A minimum of eight to ten appropriately trained firefighters must be on scene
prior to conducting any offensive interior fire attacks on structures larger than
a single family structure, such as a restaurant, warehouse or large barn.
For structure fires larger than a single family structure, a minimum of 1500
gallons of water must be available on scene prior to any fire department
members entering the structure.
Primary responsibilities:
 The Interior Tactical Team Leader’s primary responsibility is for the overall
safety of the crew and the direction and control of the interior team’s tasks
and activities.
 All fire department members’ primary responsibility is safety, personal
accountability, and Team accountability.


The Back-Up Team’s primary responsibility is to cover and protect the interior
crew(s) in event of an emergency withdrawal and to protect the interior
team’s primary egress path. The secondary responsibility is to assist with the
advance of the interior hose line(s). The Back-Up hose line is NOT the RIT
hose line and should be capable of the same flow as the line it is backing-up.
Entering and exiting from buildings must include the whole team as a unit.
RESCUE OPERATIONS:
Proper ventilation and fire control should be in place prior to deploying a primary
search team into the structure.
Rescue Size-up and Operations:
Plan rescue efforts according to the:
 Risk/benefit analysis vs. the basic fire ground incident priorities and the
nature of the resources (personnel and equip.) available at the time,
 safety of the fire department members,
 stage of the fire,
 number of people involved,
 effect of the fire on the victims,
 resources required to enter the structure,
(cont)
Page 41 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.3
OPERATIONS - Responses to Structure Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014


Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
ability to remove and protect the victims, and to ventilate and control the
fire,
is it simply evacuation, or shelter in place, or is a primary search
required.
Prioritize rescue efforts as follows:
1. most severely threatened people,
2. the largest number of people,
3. people in the remainder of the fire area, and
4. people in the exposed areas.
OFFENSIVE INTERIOR OPERATIONS:
No smoke showing:
 For minor fires with no life hazard, or in situations where nothing is showing,
carry out rapid interior evacuation.
Smoke showing, working fire conditions:
 The Incident Commander may implement fire control efforts (ventilation and
fire attack) and rescue efforts simultaneously.
 The Incident Commander should determine the operation to be in “rescue
mode”, if conditions and resource availability warrant this action, until the
primary search is complete.
 The Incident Commander must terminate primary search efforts if firefighter
safety has the potential to be jeopardized.


In working fire situations, the primary search will be followed by a secondary
search if and when it is safe to do so, following initial fire control and
ventilation activities.
The Incident Commander makes the decision to conduct primary and
secondary searches. This decision must be continually reassessed by the
Incident Commander to ensure firefighter safety.
Fully involved buildings:
 Where the immediate entry and a primary search are not possible due to
unsafe conditions, and/or survival of occupants is unlikely, the priority is to
implement fire control activities.
 Plan and implement a secondary search for victims as soon as the Incident
Commander determines it is safe to do so.
 In some cases, people may be safer where they are, rather than moving
them through contaminated areas, which may also impede firefighting.
 Resources must be carefully balanced to ensure that the fire can be
stabilized, while ensuring the safety and treatment of occupants. If
necessary, call for additional resources/mutual aid.
 Multiple victims should be removed to one location for more effective
treatment and tracking. The Incident Commander should coordinate use of
BCAS units where possible.
(cont)
Page 42 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.3
OPERATIONS - Responses to Structure Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PRIMARY SEARCH:
A primary search is where teams quickly go through all affected (and accessible)
areas of the fire and verify the removal and/or safety of all occupants. Time is the
critical factor.



The Incident Commander will implement a primary search in all involved and
exposed occupancies that the Incident Commander determines are safe to
enter. Initial fire control and ventilation operations must be structured around
the completion of the primary search when a primary search is being
conducted.
Search teams are not to advance ahead of Fire Attack Teams without a hose
line and coordinated, effective ventilation processes in place.
All initial attack efforts should be directed to supporting rescue efforts, with
hose lines placed to control interior access, confine the area, and protect
avenues of escape. If necessary, sacrifice the structure if it will buy time to
save more lives.
Note: During the primary search, reports from spectators about trapped victims may
be used as supporting information, but should not be depended upon.
SECONDARY SEARCH:
After initial fire control and ventilation operations have taken place, a secondary
search should be implemented for all working fires, when fire conditions are under
control; ventilation has been accomplished, and with improved lighting, if it is
determined safe to do so by the Incident Commander. This is a thorough and
systematic search of the interior fire area, room by room.



The Incident Commander will assign teams to specific search assignments
involving large structures, and maintain control of all teams until the search is
complete. When teams encounter and remove victims, other teams will be
assigned to replace them to continue searching if possible and safe to do so.
Thoroughness is the critical factor in a secondary search, not time.
A secondary search may need to be done by different teams than those who
did the primary search to ensure that they don’t overlook the same spaces
that the primary team may have.
PATIENT ASSISTANCE:
Incident Commander will ensure that fire or trauma patients are provided food,
shelter, clothing or access to post-incident care as required, by utilizing the resources
available through Emergency Social Services (SEP, RAEMP, or GAEMP). ESS has
the mandate to provide victims with food, shelter, clothing and other services for 72
hours following an incident.
(cont)
Page 43 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.3
OPERATIONS - Responses to Structure Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
FIRE CONFINEMENT AND CONTROL STRATEGIES:
Confinement is to limit the spread of the fire and the products of combustion (heat &
smoke), confining it to the area of origin, which may mean one room, one building, or
a whole city block or neighbourhood for very large fires. Activate mutual aid and/or
additional resource requests as needed.
 Attack lines must be chosen appropriately for the situation.
 Initial exterior attacks on structure fires require sufficient water application to
absorb the heat energy from the fire.
 Use of a 2 ½” attack line for initial exterior attacks and exposure protection
will provide for quicker knockdown of fires than smaller diameter attack lines.
2 ½” attack lines are the recommended initial exterior attack line.
 Once initial exterior knockdown of the fire has occurred then switching over
to smaller diameter attack lines for interior as well as exterior use, will
provide for better maneuverability and less firefighter fatigue.
VENTILATION:
Conduct ventilation so that the fire and its products of combustion will be channeled
out of the building. Poor ventilation will hamper fire operations and can make the fire
worse.
 Coordinate ventilation activities with confinement, extinguishment, rescue,
exposure and salvage activities.
 Horizontal ventilation, the lowest risk form of ventilation, should be used.
 Vertical ventilation requiring operations to be conducted on a roof are a
higher risk ventilation method, and will not be used.
The Incident Commander must consider the fire conditions and resources available
when determining which of the following strategic/operational modes will be
implemented:
 Offensive
 Defensive
Strategic/Operational Modes
Offensive Mode (Interior Operations)
The most effective way to confine and control a fire is the Offensive strategy. This
aggressive attack will be used when the attack can be made directly on the seat of
the fire. Other fire attack strategies to be considered by the Incident Commander will
be based upon the conditions found upon initial size-up and resources available. If an
attack is still safe to do so from the interior of the structure, depending on the
ventilation options, the fire attack team will work from the unburned side.
Defensive Mode (Exterior Operations)
If the fire is extensive and spreading and/or if resources are not sufficient to support
an Offensive fire attack strategy then a Defensive strategy must be used. All
operations must be conducted from the building exterior. The Incident Commander
may consider switching or changing from a Defensive to an Offensive Mode if the
required resources become available and if the fire conditions indicate changing
modes is a viable option.
(cont)
Page 44 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.3
OPERATIONS - Responses to Structure Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
If the fire is totally involved, or if building collapse is imminent, or if the structural integrity of
the building is unknown, use the Defensive strategy. Focus on protecting adjacent exposure
structures by keeping the exposures thoroughly wet, while attempting to cool and limit the
main fire from the exterior of the structure. All operations are conducted from the
outside/exterior of the structure.
If a flashover has occurred, and the fire becomes fully involved, use the Defensive strategy.
From an exterior position, apply water directly to the burning materials if possible, and to the
atmosphere above the fire.
All avenues of fire spread must be considered as fire may spread in the direction of any or all
of its seven sides (front, back, sides, top, bottom, and interior). In addition, all openings are a
means of fire extension, including ducts, vents, doors, windows, utility raceways, shafts, and
holes in ceilings or walls.
If the fire is in a concealed space (such as an attic, ceiling space, crawl space, etc.), tasked
teams trained in such operations will need to open up and operate fire streams into these
areas if/when safe to do so.



Provide enough fire streams of adequate size to control the fire.
Provide sufficient Back-Up hose lines in case initial attack lines cannot gain
control.
Coordinate fire control operations with rescue operations, ventilation, and
forcible entry to ensure safe and effective results.
UTILITY CONTROL:
Utilities should be shut off so they do not contribute to the fire’s spread, overall damage, or
safety hazards.



Request Fire Dispatch to request BC Hydro to shut down the power to the
structure. (Refer to OG 1.3.4 – Electrical Emergency Safety).
Fire department members can shut off the gas meter. Confirm that Fire
Dispatch has requested the gas company to attend the scene.
If necessary, also shut down the water supply to the structure at the valve
closest to the point of usage.
PROPERTY CONSERVATION:
The Incident Commander will attempt to engage the appropriate fire ground resources that
are assigned to the incident in order to keep property loss to a minimum.
As soon as the fire is out, shut down the fire steams to reduce property loss. The earlier the
salvage operations begin, the smaller the loss.
(cont)
Page 45 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.3
OPERATIONS - Responses to Structure Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
When basic fire control has been achieved, the Incident Commander will commit and direct
personnel to property conservation activities. These include:





evaluating overall damage to fire areas,
evaluating the salvage value of fire areas,
determining the personnel and equipment required,
tasking the required personnel, and
transferring hose lines from fire control to salvage functions.
Be aware that fire department members involved in fire control and rescue operations may be
fatigued by the time conservation and salvage activities are undertaken. Evaluate their
condition and replace with fresh teams, if available. If replacement teams are not available,
and the existing teams are fatigued, primary concern is the health and wellbeing of the fire
department members.
OVERHAUL:
Overhaul operations occur after the main body of the fire is out, to ensure that the fire is
completely extinguished and property rendered safe before the fire department leaves the
scene. Overhaul operations must keep in mind evidence preservation for use in the fire
investigation phase. Request fire investigators early in order to minimize damage in salvage
and overhaul operations.
Before beginning overhaul, conduct a pre-inspection of the building and create a plan to
ensure safety and effectiveness. Identify unsafe conditions early in the overhaul process and
mitigate them.
Give particular attention to areas prone to rekindling and collapse, including:






walls and ceilings,
roof and attic structures,
shafts,
cabinets and compartments,
window and door facings, and
basement areas.
On behalf of the home owner or in their absence, request equipment (backhoe or excavator)
for demolition if in the opinion of the Incident Commander (with advice from the LAFC or
investigator) the building is deemed unsafe and poses a risk to neighbouring structures.
FIRE WATCH: (Refer to OG 2.9)
The Incident Commander will appoint the building owner/agent or occupier to maintain a fire
watch at extinguished fires that may re-kindle due to hidden hot spots. It is the responsibility
of the owner/agent or occupant to call 9-1-1 if there is a re-ignition of materials. Liability
Release forms should be signed by the owner/occupant. In the event that the IC is not
confident that a thorough overhaul is complete, and therefore there is a likelihood for hot
spots and re-kindle, the IC may consider leaving two firefighters with the necessary
equipment to conduct the fire watch.
(cont)
Page 46 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.3
OPERATIONS - Responses to Structure Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
MARIJUANA GROW OPERATIONS:
Upon recognition that the incident involves a marijuana grow operation, the Incident
Commander will ensure that all Members are advised so that they will be aware of the
possible hazards and will not enter the building until the electrical power supply to the
building has been disconnected.
A Rapid Intervention Team will be established prior to entry a structure.
When responding to an incident within a property, where it is recognized that marijuana grow
operations may be present, extra caution must be exercised. These types of operations
normally involve extensive electrical equipment installations that may or may not be protected
by the required electrical safety equipment (breakers and fuses etc.). Upon recognition of a
grow operation members will withdraw from the structure until the electrical energy supply
has been disconnected from the property. An additional hazard may be booby traps, such as
holes in the floor, wire-triggered guns, electrical distribution bypass etc.
Fire suppression will continue as an exterior defensive attack only and members are to
continue using full personal protective clothing and SCBA.
After the electrical power supply to the building is disconnected an interior fire attack may be
undertaken if advisable. The number of members entering the structure will be limited to
those who are necessary to complete fire extinguishment operations. All members entering
the structure must wear full personal protective clothing and SCBA.
The Incident Commander will immediately advise the RCMP of the location of the marijuana
grow operation, as well as the Fire Services Coordinator and the LAFC. Security of the site
will be maintained by Members until it can be turned over to the RCMP; preservation of
evidence is a priority. Where an incident involving a marijuana grow operation does not
involve a fire, it must be recognized that many of the same hazards still exist, and therefore
the same precautions will be taken.
CLANDESTINE DRUG OPERATIONS:
Immediately upon recognition that the incident involves a clandestine drug operation, the
Incident Commander will:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
ensure that all personnel are advised of the Drug Operation
cease any interior operations
evacuate the building
carry out a defensive attack from the exterior only
ensure exposure to products of combustion is minimized
ensure that Members carrying out the exterior attack are wearing full
protective clothing and SCBA
7. minimize radiated heat exposure to nearby structures
8. advise citizens downwind of the incident and possible hazards
9. ensure a Rapid Intervention Team is established and remains until after
extinguishment of the fire
(cont)
Page 47 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.3
OPERATIONS - Responses to Structure Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
When responding to a fire within a single family dwelling, where the fire is recognized to
involve a clandestine drug operation, members will ensure that the above procedures are
followed. The Incident Commander will immediately advise the RCMP, the Fire Services
Coordinator, and the LAFC of any incidents involving clandestine drug operations. Security of
the site will be maintained until it can be turned over to the RCMP.
Where an incident involving a clandestine drug operation does not involve a fire, it must be
recognized that most of the same hazards exist, and the same precautions shall be taken.
Post -fire extinguishment operations will be limited to firefighting from an established
defensive perimeter. Members shall not enter the building or any contaminated exterior area.
The fire investigation may be limited and the LAFC will be notified.
REFERENCE:
Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, Workers’ Compensation Board of
British Columbia.
IFSTA Essentials of Fire Fighting Training Manual
BC Hydro Electrical Safety for Firefighters
Workers’ Compensation Board Regulations
Page 48 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.4
OPERATIONS - Responses to Other Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide fire department members with procedures regarding responding to
various fire incidents other than structure fire incidents.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
All fire department members will be knowledgeable, and will carry out, the
procedures provided in this Guideline.
PROCEDURE:
CSRD fire departments respond to numerous types of fires in addition to structure
fires, as follows:
Garbage Container Fires:
Members will not go inside garbage containers or bins due to hidden contaminates
and other potential hazards (such as flammable liquids, chemicals, sharp objects,
etc.) Fires involving wastes are the most dangerous when the source and identity of
materials are unknown. Illegal disposal of hazardous wastes is prevalent and a
member may encounter unidentified or poorly contained toxic wastes.
The Incident Commander must:
 Complete an accurate size-up
 move involved containers that are inside buildings to the exterior
 ventilate the building (if container is inside building)
 consider the amount of water being used and where the runoff is draining
(runoff may be contaminated with hazardous material)
 protect exposures
 attack and extinguish fire from upwind, if possible
Members that have the following training can engage in fire suppression of garbage
container fires:
 BCBFP
 Live Fire I
 Live Fire II
Flammable Liquid Fires:
The Incident Commander must:
 establish nature of spill and confirm placard and UN number
 establish command upwind and uphill (if on a grade)
 establish a controlled perimeter
 request additional resources, as required
 complete rescues quickly and on foot, straight streams to flush away spill
from rescue area and fog streams to protect rescue personnel
 consider evacuation of area
 shut off the fuel source, if possible
 initiate spill containment, if required
(cont)
Page 49 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.4
OPERATIONS - Responses to Other Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014






Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
protect exposures
use foam as extinguishing agent or to blanket vapours produced by unignited liquids
cool the upper portion (vapour area) of a tank with water, preferably from
unmanned sources
remove possible ignition sources from vapour area
extinguish the fire, controlled burning is a very acceptable firefighting
procedure
keep fog lines in position during overhaul to protect personnel
Warning- excessive use of water may spread and make confinement more difficult.
Warning- a boiling liquid expanding vapour explosion (BLEVE) occurs when flame
ignites the vapour space of a compressed flammable liquid vessel or container
Warning- propane gas is heavier than air and tends to flow downhill and settle in low
areas of entrapment similar to the way water would act.
Members that have the following training can engage in fire suppression of
flammable liquid fires:
 BCBFP
 Live Fire I
 Live Fire II
REFERENCE:
Haz-Mat Emergencies, Response and Control
IFSTA, Essentials of Firefighting, Pages 406 to 412
Flammable Liquid Spills (No Fire):
The Incident Commander must:
 Establish command upwind and uphill
 Establish a controlled perimeter
 Control/isolate any potential ignition sources
 Request additional resources as required
 Complete rescue quickly and on foot, straight steams to flush spill away from
rescue area and fog streams to protect rescue personnel
 Consider evacuation of area
 Shut off spill, if possible
 Identify product involved, provide product details to dispatch when known
 Blanket spill with foam
 Keep scene secure until risk of ignition is removed
Warning- a flammable liquid spill that is not burning is still very dangerous due to the
spread of flammable vapours into unknown areas where ignition may occur.
Members that have the following training can engage in response to flammable liquid
spills:
 Haz-Mat Awareness
REFERENCE:
Haz-Mat Emergencies-Response and Control-CASHMAN
IFSTA, Essentials of Firefighting, Pages 406 to 412
(cont)
Page 50 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.4
OPERATIONS - Responses to Other Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
Wires Down- Victims Trapped
Members will follow standard electrical safety protocols when required to remove
victims trapped by live electrical lines. The Incident Commander must:





secure the area
dispatch BC Hydro to the scene
wait for BC Hydro to confirm that the line has been de-energized (stay at
least 10 meters from any fallen power line)
reassure trapped victims, have them stay put until the power is shut off
if the vehicle catches on fire, instruct the victims to jump from the vehicle with
both feet together, and hop to safety with both feet together
Warning- always expect that downed wires are live. Be aware that 12,000 volt lines
have a one minute automatic reset.
Members that have the following training can operate tactically in incidents that
involve persons trapped by live electrical wires:
 Electrical Safety
Fires at Marinas and Foreshore
CSRD fire departments will respond to marina facilities and other foreshore lease
structures (may include moorage docks, floats, vessels attached to docks, vessels on
the foreshore, etc.) that fall within their respective fire suppression area.
CSRD fire departments do not have a mandate for fire suppression to vessels that
cannot be accessed by land.
Due to the inherent risk at marinas, fire departments will perform periodical tactical
inspections of these properties for familiarity of the hazards. Personal flotation
devices will be carried by all CSRD fire departments that may respond to a marina
fire at or near waterways.
Members that have the following training can engage in fire suppression of marina
facilities and foreshore lease structures:
 BCBFP
 Marina Firefighting
Mailboxes
Fires and other incidents involving mailboxes represent a unique situation. The
contents of mailboxes may be of high value, destroyed items may never be identified
and the owners of the items may not become aware of the loss.
The strategic and tactical priorities will be Member safety and property conservation.
(cont)
Page 51 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.4
OPERATIONS - Responses to Other Fire Incidents
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
To reduce damage to the mailbox and contents, the preferred method of
extinguishment will be with the use of a multi-purpose dry chemical portable fire
extinguisher. Where water is the only extinguishing agent available, it should be
used sparingly. Where a rural, private, unlocked mailbox is involved, all mail or
remaining parts thereof, should be salvaged and taken to the mailbox owner. If the
owner is not available, the mail should be taken to the nearest Canada Post Office
during regular office hours.
Where a locked mailbox is involved, the Incident Commander will have Dispatch
notify the emergency contact for Canada Post, who will be asked to attend to open
the box and salvage the contents. All incidents where there appears to have been a
deliberate attempt to destroy a mailbox or its contents the incident is to be reported to
the RCMP.
Members that have the following training can engage in fire suppression service of
mailboxes:
BCBFP
Aircraft Emergency Incident
To be treated operationally as a Vehicle Fire (OG 2.5).
Page 52 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.5
OPERATIONS – Fire Suppression – Vehicle Fires
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish firefighting procedures for vehicles involved in fire.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
At the request of the RCMP, BCAS, First Responders, or recognized Search &
Rescue Society that performs automobile extrication, CSRD fire departments will
respond to motor vehicle accidents within their respective service areas if there is a
vehicle involved in a fire or threat of fire to motor vehicles, victims, or property, and
risk to public safety.
The Incident Commander will develop an initial strategy and implement effective
tactical operations to successfully control and extinguish vehicles involved in fire and
conduct these operations in a safe manner.
PROCEDURE:
Positioning Attack Vehicle Safely: The Incident Commander will position the
attack vehicle based on the conditions encountered as follows:
 the pumper will be positioned a safe distance from a vehicle involved in fire, at
least 30m
 wherever possible, the pumper will be positioned on high ground, and upwind.
The only exception to placing the pumper on high ground is when the vehicle is
fuelled with Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) which is lighter than air
 wherever possible, avoid passing a vehicle that is fully involved in fire.
 Traffic control support may be immediately necessary to assist with scene
management and firefighter safety
Fire Fighting Tactics: The Incident Commander will base firefighting tactics
according to conditions encountered as follows:
 Fire department members will wear full protective clothing and equipment, in
accordance with Operational Guideline 1.2.4 “SCBA”.
 The type of vehicle and state of conditions should be identified during size up.
Acknowledging if the vehicle is a modern hybrid/electric car should be
recognized.
 The interior of the vehicle will be checked for occupants.
 Two (2), 38mm (11/2”) fog lines will be employed and the initial attack,
whenever possible, made towards the front of the vehicle and at an angle of
approximately 45 degrees.
 The fire will be located and a water stream applied to the fuel tank for cooling
purposes, while the fire will be extinguished with the second, 38mm (11/2”)
hose line.
(cont)
Page 53 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.5
OPERATIONS – Fire Suppression – Vehicle Fires
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
 In the event of a vehicle fully or extensively involved in fire, the Incident
Commander will be given discretion to order the first 38mm hose line adjusted
to a straight stream and directed on the vehicle. The second 38mm hose line
will be used for protection of firefighters.
 When advancement is made after the initial application, the straight stream will
be adjusted to a fog pattern and the Incident Commander will employ effective
tactical operations to control and extinguish the fire.
 Foam may be used to combat vehicle fires.
 If tanks are already venting as a result of the fire, protect exposures and allow
the fuel tanks to continue to vent. Caution: fire impinging upon pressurized
LNG and LPG fuel tanks is a dangerous condition. Extreme caution must
be exercised by firefighters when approaching such a situation. As long
as life is not endangered, firefighters should consider applying straight
streams from a safe distance in an attempt to cool the fuel tank(s), cover
exposures and wait until the fuel is totally vented before approaching the
vehicle.
Members that have the following training can engage in fire suppression of
vehicle fires:
 BCBFP
 Live Fire I
 Live Fire II
REFERENCE:
WCB OH&S Regulations
IFSTA Essentials of Firefighting - 4th Edition
NFPA Standards
Page 54 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.6
OPERATIONS – Wildland-Urban Interface and Grass Based Fires
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide for the safe and efficient response to wildland-urban interface and grass
based fires, and to require fire department members to follow safe work practices for
all designated tactics and tasks during these responses.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
The Incident Commander will assess the fire scene and determine if additional
resources are required.
PROCEDURE:
The Incident Commander will assess the fire scene and will apply the Ministry of
Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations (MFLNRO) Fire Intensity Ranking
to the fire. (Rank 1-6, See Appendix E).
The Incident Commander will contact Dispatch to request assistance from the
MFLNRO in controlling a fire incident in the following circumstances:
 for a Rank 1 or 2 fire if the fire is too large to contain or if the terrain and
topography limits the ability to access or suppress the fire, or
 the Ranking is 3-6.
When the MFLNRO is requested to assist:
 Incident Command will request Dispatch to contact the Emergency Program
Coordinator of SEP, RAEMP, or GAEMP depending on the geographic location
of the wildland urban interface fire.
 the Emergency Program will activate the Emergency Operations Center, and
 the Emergency Program will obtain a Provincial PEP number.
The Fire Department Incident Commander will initiate a unified command with the
appropriate MFLNRO representative. It is understood that the Ministry of FLNRO will
provide resources throughout the event depending upon the availability of those
resources. The Incident Commander will access the CSRD Structural Protection Unit
(SPU) if required, according to the SPU Letter of Understanding (Appendix C
attatched).
The fire department is responsible for the suppression and mop up of fires on private
land within their fire protection boundaries.
The MFLNRO is responsible for the mop-up of fires occuring on Crown Land within
their fire protection boundaries.
Dangerous Trees/Wildland Fire
A dangerous tree is any tree that is hazardous to workers because of: location or
lean, physical damage, overhead hazards, deterioration of limbs, stem or root system
(50 % of root or stem system burnt) or any combination as mentioned.
(cont)
Page 55 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.6
OPERATIONS – Wildland-Urban Interface and Grass Based Fires
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
During the initial attack stage of a wildfire (within 3 hours of Ignition) an informal
assessment of any danger trees will be conducted by the Incident Command, or his
designate, and all workers will be made aware of any suspect trees. Workers in this
situation need to keep a “heads up approach” and stay away from any obvious
dangerous trees and overhead tree hazards (insecure lodged trees, hanging tops or
limbs). During expanded operations (after 3 hours) a formal assessment, by a
certified assessor, must be conducted.
Where specific wildfire suppression operations are critical to controlling the fire and
there is no other practical alternative safety procedure, the use of spotters to watch
suspect or potentially dangerous trees in order to allow workers to carry out activities
may be utilized, as long as it is for a short duration only. If this practice is to be
employed, then it is essential that all workers on site are aware of the procedures to
be used and appropriate action required if a tree appears in any way to be posing a
threat of injury to workers on-site at that time.
If a dangerous tree must be removed, then a qualified faller must be used to remove
the tree.
Members that have the following training can engage in fire suppression of wildlandurban interface fires and grass fires:



REFERENCE:
BCBFP
S100
S115
S-215 Fire Operations in the Wildland/Urban Interface
S-100 Introduction to the Wildland/Urban Interface
ICS 100 Incident Command System
Worksafe Regulation 26.11 (1)
Wildland Management Branch OSWS#1
Page 56 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.7
OPERATIONS – Fire Scene Turnover to Owner
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To ensure that after an incident the property owner, occupant, or their agent is fully
aware of their responsibilities and this is acknowledged in writing.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Prior to leaving a site and at the conclusion of an incident, the Incident Commander
will complete a “Liability Release Form”, have it signed by the property owner,
occupant, or their agent, and the original copy of the notice will be left with that
person.
PROCEDURE:
After a fire-related incident at a site where a property owner, occupant, or their agent
is present and the fire cause has been determined the Incident Commander will
ensure that a “Liability Release Form” is completed and the original copy left with that
person and a copy will be attached to the field report. (See OG# 2.8 Liability Release
Form).
The property owner, occupant, or their agent is responsible for the site at the
conclusion of the incident. An agent is a person acting or who is doing business for
the owner or occupant and who states they are responsible for the property during
the owner’s or occupant’s absence.
W hen further action is required by the Department (a follow-up site inspection), the
Member will ensure the owner, occupant or agent is aware of the inspection or
attendance at the building or property and the Member notes the attendance on their
copy of the “Liability Release Form” and the owner, occupant or agent is aware of
any further action necessary to ensure the safety of the building or property.
Page 57 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.8
OPERATIONS – Liability Release Form
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
Page 58 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.9
OPERATIONS – Post Extinguishment Fire Watch Report Instructions
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish guidelines for post-extinguishment fire watch.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Members will conduct themselves in accordance with the instructions as outlined
below in the event that post extinguishment fire watch is required.
PROCEDURE:
After the fire is extinguished and the cause of the fire has been determined, a Fire
Watch may not be necessary by Members when the Incident Commander transfers
the responsibility of the building or property to the owner, tenant or agent. When post
fire supervision of the building or property is transferred to the tenant, owner or agent
it must be documented on the Post-Extinguishment Fire Watch Report. A copy of the
report including recommendations to follow is to be given to the person assuming the
responsibility for the building or property. A copy of the report will also be attached to
the Department Field Report.
When the owner, tenant or agent for the property is not available and a fire watch is
deemed appropriate by the Incident Commander the Members may be called upon to
conduct the fire watch.
The Fire Chief may terminate the watch when:
 twelve (12) hours have passed since the start of the fire watch and more than
four (4) hours have passed since the last extinguishment of a burning ember,
hidden fire or cooling of a hot spot has occurred; and,
 the owner, tenant or agent (agent also includes a person representing the
insurance company who holds the fire insurance policy for the building or
property) cannot be located and security of the property or building is no longer
required for the purposes of fire cause and origin investigation.
The site is to be secured to the best of the Department’s ability with materials that are
at hand. The RCMP and if known, the Insurance Adjuster are to be advised that the
watch is terminated and the extent of security that has been placed on the building or
property prior to leaving the incident location.
When required a Fire Watch should consist of at least:
 two (2) Members equipped with radio communications and SCBA
 fire extinguishing equipment and a piece of mobile fire apparatus if practical
The Members conducting a Fire Watch are responsible for:
 maintaining security and safety of the building or area
 checking for re-ignition of fires, hidden fires or hotspots at least once every 30
minutes using a thermal imaging device if available or by visual surveillance
 preserving the integrity of the fire scene and evidence relating to the fire cause
and origin
 prohibiting unauthorized persons from entering the site
Checking for sources of re-ignition should include but not limited to:
 a thorough search for hidden fires and hotspots using a thermal imaging device
or the back of your hand to determine hot spots
 wetting down all materials that are flaming, smoldering or hot to the touch
 removal of burned debris to the outside of the building, if required
 making notes of conditions found, actions taken and time of day
Page 59 of 139
POST- EXTINGUISHMENT FIRE WATCH REPORT
Incident Number: _______________________
Date: ________________________________
Start of W atch: _________hours
Incident location: _________________________________________________________
Name of Owner, Agent or Tenant:____________________________________________
Incident Commander:______________________________________
Fire W atch Members:_______________________________________________________
Date Fire W atch Transferred: ____________20___. Transferred to: __________________
Address: _______________________________ Contact Number: ___________________
Fire W atch Concluded at: __________ hours
TIME
ACTION / COMMENT
Page _____ of _____
_______________________________
Signature of Fire Watch Commander
Page 60 of 139
POST- EXTINGUISHMENT FIRE WATCH REPORT
Continued from Page _______
Location: ___________________________ Date: ____________________
Time
Action/ Comments
Page _____ of _____
_______________________________
Signature of Fire Watch Commander:
Page 61 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.10
OPERATIONS – Officer Emergency Response
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To clarify the response of officers to incidents.
SCOPE:
All officers.
GUIDELINE:
In order to initiate the Incident Command System (ICS) and to establish the
Command function as soon as possible at an incident, officers may respond directly
to an incident.
PROCEDURE:
With the Fire Chief’s approval, officers may respond directly to the scene of an
incident, if the response will facilitate the early establishment of the Command
function (IC) and its subsequent responsibilities.
Officers will have their radios with them when responding directly to an incident in a
private vehicle.
Turnout gear is not permitted in private vehicles due to
contaminants. The officer will request the other responding members to bring his/her
turnout gear to the incident.
Officers must proceed to the incident in accordance with all motor vehicle regulations
regarding the operation of a non-emergency vehicle. Officers are personally
responsible for the operation of the vehicle they are travelling in.
When responding to an incident, if the response requires the officer to pass the Fire
Hall, officers are expected to stop at the Fire Hall and proceed with the apparatus,
especially if this would improve the response time of the apparatus.
Officers should report to fire dispatch: (See OG 2.0 and OG 2.3)










their identity
address of incident
attempt 360, if safe to do so
building type and construction
size of building
description and details of smoke and wind
recommend strategic mode
information from owner/occupant
establish command
resources needed
Officers’ training will be as specified in OG 5.6.1, OG 5.6.2, OG 5.6.3, OG 5.6.4,
OG 5.6.5.
Page 62 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.11
OPERATIONS – HAZ-MAT Scene Assessment
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish a procedure for identifying the nature and severity of the situation and
for gathering information to formulate an action plan.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Accurate assessment of Haz-mat situations is of the utmost importance and will be
done while ensuring the safety of emergency response personnel.
PROCEDURE:
INITIAL RESPONSE
1) Establish command.
2) Avoid committing resources to a dangerous situation.
3) Evaluate wind, topography and incident location. Position apparatus safely.
4) Make a cautious approach.
SIZE-UP
5) Provide an accurate size-up, attempt to identify the product in question.
6) Complete rescues or evacuations that require immediate action.
7) Request additional resources, as required and appropriate. May include SEP,
RAEMP, GAEMP, RCMP, CPR, DFO, MoE, etc.
8) Avoid premature commitment of apparatus and personnel.
9) Provide an accurate situation report to warn other responding resources of
the hazard.
ESTABLISH SECURE ZONES
10) Establish a control perimeter
 Secure the area around the hazard.
 Establish a safe position for the command centre.
 Establish staging area for incoming apparatus
Establish HOT, WARM, and COLD control zones. Make HOT zone large, it can be
easily downsized when chemicals and reactions have been safely identified.
Page 63 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.12
OPERATIONS – Fire Call-out Outside Service Area
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide direction to fire department members on requests for service outside an
established CSRD fire suppression service area.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
The jurisdiction of the Fire Departments will be the Regional District designated fire
suppression service Areas.
PROCEDURE:
1) An individual Fire Department will ordinarily respond only to calls emanating from
the particular Fire Suppression Service Area in which it is located. It will respond
in another Fire Suppression Service Area only if requested by the Fire Chief of
such Fire Suppression Service Area or instructed so to do by the Fire Services
Coordinator (a “Regional Aid Request”). Responses to a regional aid request will
be in accordance with the Standard Operational Guideline 5.15 Mutual Aid.
2) For the purposes of responding to any Incident within any Regional District Fire
Service Area, Fire Departments may move and transport Apparatus over public
or private roads and over land outside of the established CSRD Fire Service
Areas solely for the purpose of gaining access to the Incident.
3) A Fire Department may respond to an Incident outside of a Regional District Fire
Service Area in the following circumstances:
1. if authorized to respond by EMBC or in accordance with an agreement with
or standard operating procedures established by Ministry of FLNRO or any
other provincial emergency agency.
2. to provide fire suppression where a wildfire or an Interface Fire imminently
threatens any part of a Fire Department’s Fire Suppression Service Area;
3. the Fire Services Coordinator may establish a reconnaissance team to
investigate fire threats to a local Fire Suppression Service Area;
4. in accordance with a mutual aid agreement with a municipality within the
Regional District or a mutual aid agreement with another regional district or
the Province; and
5. if ordered so to do by the Minister, a local authority exercising the Minister’s
powers, the Lieutenant Governor in Council or the Fire Commissioner, under
and in accordance with the Emergency Program Act (BC) and the
regulations made there under.
4) A Fire Chief or his or her designate may, in his or her sole discretion, refuse to
respond to calls to Incidents described in Section 3.
(cont)
Page 64 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.12
OPERATIONS – Fire Call-out Outside Service Area
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
5) The Fire Services Coordinator will be advised as soon as possible of all
responses by Fire Departments described in Section 3, or of a decision to refuse
such a call in accordance with Section 4. Where required, the Fire Services
Coordinator will ensure that other Fire Departments or mutual aid partners are
alerted, or units activated, either to provide support or heightened coverage as a
result of a Regional Aid Request, or a mutual aid request or other response
outside of any CSRD Fire Service Area.
REFERENCE:
CSRD Operational Criteria Bylaw # 5587
Page 65 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.13
OPERATIONS – Radio Communication
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide fire
communications.
department
members
with
procedures
for
using
radio
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Radio equipment will be used for fire department business only. Fire Department
members will use “clear text” only, no codes.
PROCEDURE:
 Always wait until the frequency is “clear” before making a transmission.
 When making a transmission, identify the unit or person you are calling FIRST
followed by your identity.
 When transmitting over a repeater frequency wait two seconds after keying the
microphone before speaking.
 DO NOT transmit message until receiver acknowledges the call.
 Coarse language will not be tolerated.
 All communications will be brief, factual and without personal content.
 Prevent “radio feedback” when transmitting by maintaining adequate distance
between radio and pager equipment.
 Repeat back transmissions.
 Use tactical frequencies for fire ground operations, request channel from fire
dispatch.
When responding to a call, notify dispatch as to:
 when the apparatus is enroute
 the number of fire department members on board and the number of rookie
members
 provide a brief status report of incident upon arrival and upon conclusion of
incident
 provide periodic updates
 when the apparatus is returning to Hall, and
 when the apparatus is back in service.
REFERENCE:
IFSTA Essentials of Fire Fighting
FOCC
Page 66 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.14
OPERATIONS – SCBA – Self Contained Breathing Apparatus
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide fire department members with the knowledge, requirements, procedures,
and care and maintenance instructions for wearing and maintaining self contained
breathing apparatus (SCBA).
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
All fire department members will wear SCBA at all times where the firefighter could
encounter hazardous atmospheres, including:




PROCEDURE:
oxygen deficiency
elevated temperatures
smoke, and/or
toxic atmosphere (with or without fire)
SCBA will be worn and maintained in accordance with the CSRD Fire Services
Respiratory Protection Program.
All fire department members will put on SCBA before entering any atmosphere that is
unknown, oxygen deficient and/or constitutes hazards immediately dangerous to life
and health (IDLH).
All fire department members will, at entry level, be trained and tested in both written
and practical matters in the use, limitations and maintenance requirements of the
SCBA. All fire department members who will, at any time, be wearing a SCBA will
receive a fit test annually. Fit-testing will be completed by a person qualified and
trained in the procedures for positive and negative fit testing.
All fire department members will receive the appropriate training and information as
SCBA equipment is upgraded and changed.
REFERENCE:
CSRD Fire Services Health and Safety Program
CSRD Fire Services Respiratory Protective Program
IFSTA Essentials of Fire Fighting Training Manual
Workers’ Compensation Board Health and Safety Regulations
Page 67 of 139
SECTION 2: FIRE SERVICES OPERATIONS
OG 2.15
OPERATIONS – Incident Reports
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To ensure the completion of reports for every emergency incident attended by the fire
department.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
An incident report will be completed by the Incident Commander for every incident
attended, whether emergency or routine in nature.
PROCEDURE:
The Incident Commander will ensure that an incident report is completed for each
incident attended. Factual observations detailing the actions taken by the fire
department will be documented on the Incident Report; the IC will consult with the
officers that attended to document the duties performed along with any other
observations.
The Fire Chief or Deputy Chief will review all incident reports for completeness and
accuracy.
The fire department will maintain a file of all incidents. This file will contain the
incident report, pictures, and all related documents. The fire department will file the
Incident Report in digital form on the CSRD FDM Records Management System.
The Fire Chief or Deputy Chief will forward the Incident form to the Fire Services
Coordinator via email or fax.
Page 68 of 139
SECTION 3: FIRE SERVICES TRAINING STANDARDS
OG 3.0
TRAINING STANDARDS - Requirements
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish training standards for fire department members to enable them to
perform their duties safely and effectively.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
The fire department will train all fire department members on a regular basis to
applicable Provincial standards.
PROCEDURE:
General: The Fire Services Coordinator will design, coordinate and administer a
comprehensive corporate fire training program for CSRD fire departments, as well as
collaborate with the Fire Training Officers and Fire Chiefs of the CSRD fire
departments on the corporate training program. The program will supply sufficient
manuals and resource materials to meet the applicable Provincial standards. Fire
Chiefs and Training Officers will work together to enhance the training program for
their department depending on their specific training needs, while keeping their
training consistent with the other Fire Departments within the CSRD.
Provincial standards for fire department training are established by the Office of the
Fire Commissioner under section 3(3)(b) of the Fire Services Act (BC). The
Minister’s Order (Order M-368, 2002) provides that the minimum standards for
training of fire personnel in the province are those set by the National Fire Protection
Association.
Fire department training will be designed to meet the following standards:
 CSRD Fire Services Operational Guidelines
 NFPA 1021 training for fire officers
 NFPA 1001 – Firefighter (Professional) Qualifications, (specific aspects of FF-1
and FF-2)
 NFPA 1002 – Driver (Professional) Qualifications
 BCERMS Standard – ICS Program, and
 Such other NFPA standards as may be applicable to a Department’s
emergency responses
Training Responsibilities:
The Fire Chief will be responsible for:
 the adoption and approval of training requirements
 to ensure that members reach the required levels of training, and maintain the
required levels of training
 to ensure that the fire department records all training in the CSRD FDM
Records Management System (RMS). Fire Chiefs are encouraged to establish
a Station Officer position, whose primary responsibility is the overseeing of
department record keeping.
(cont)
Page 69 of 139
SECTION 3: FIRE SERVICES TRAINING STANDARDS
OG 3.0
TRAINING STANDARDS - Requirements
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
The Deputy Chief will be responsible for:
 coordinating with the Training Officer in matters relating to training
 providing overall guidance in matters relating to training
The Training Officer will be responsible for:
 determining departmental training needs
 collaborate with the Fire Services Coordinator and other training officers on
developing departmental training records
 collaboration with the Fire Chief (and Station Officer), ensuring that all training
records for all fire department members are maintained and recorded in the
CSRD FDM RMS
 evaluating continuity of training
 in collaboration with the Fire Services Coordinator and other Training officers,
scheduling and coordinating special training sessions
 conducting training as required
Officers and Instructors are responsible for:
 instructing according to departmental training schedules and in accordance
with applicable standards, manuals and Operational Guidelines, as well as
departmental and other training aids, and
 completing class attendance records and lesson summaries as soon as
possible after classes are completed.
All fire department members will participate in departmental training activities and
maintain personal and professional competencies relative to the skill and knowledge
levels required of their respective position within the fire department. All training that
is completed will be documented in the CSRD FDM Records Management System.
REFERENCE:
CSRD Fire Services Operational Guidelines
IFSTA Essentials of Fire Fighting Training Manual
Minister’s Order on Training under the Fire Services Act (BC)
Relevant NFPA standards
Page 70 of 139
SECTION 3: FIRE SERVICES TRAINING STANDARDS
OG 3.0.1
TRAINING STANDARDS - Firefighters
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish training standards for all fire department members in order to enable all
members to perform their duties safely and efficiently.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
The fire department will train fire department members on a regular basis to
Provincial standards. Fire department members will participate in the training
provided.
PROCEDURE:
General: Practices will be held a minimum of once per week (excepting the last two
weeks in December), and will be a minimum of 2 hours in duration totalling not less
than 100 hours annually.
In order to maintain their active call-out status as members of the fire department,
Fire department members are expected to attend a minimum of 60 hours of
firefighting skills training through the department during each 12 month period from
January to December. The calculation of this minimum training includes any
additional certified or recognized training received by a member over and above
weekly scheduled training.
Recruit Firefighter: All newly recruited firefighters must successfully complete the
British Columbia Basic Firefighting Program (BCBFP) during a six month period,
before transitioning to the status of probationary fire department member. At any time
during the six month period a Recruit firefighter may be dismissed by the Fire Chief if
found to be unsuitable.
Recruit firefighters will be issued turnout clothing upon the start of the practical
components of the BCBFP, along with a green helmet and/or a coloured
accountability tag. Recruit fire department members will be issued a pager upon
completion of the BCBFP. (See OG 5.6.8)
Probationary Firefighter:
The probationary period starts after successful
completion of the BCBFP (six months). During the three month probationary period,
a probationary firefighter will be required to complete the following:
 Live Fire I
The probationary period may be extended in the event that a Live Fire I course is not
available until a later date.
Probationary firefighters are permitted to attend general meetings of the Hall.
During the probationary period, the probationary firefighters will be assessed at
regular intervals by the fire department training staff and informed of their progress.
During these periods a probationary firefighter may be dismissed by the Fire Chief if
found to be unsuitable.
A probationary firefighter will be granted full firefighter status within the fire
department upon: (See OG 5.6.7)
(cont)
Page 71 of 139
SECTION 3: FIRE SERVICES TRAINING STANDARDS
OG 3.0.1
TRAINING STANDARDS - Firefighters
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
 Successful completion of the six month Recruit period and completion of the
BCBFP
 Successful completion of the subsequent three month Probationary period and
Live Fire I
 receiving a recommendation from the Fire Chief, which shall be based on
consultation with the Training Officer.
Firefighter: For all persons that join a fire department after January 1, 2014, the
minimum training required to be classified as a firefighter is the BCBFP and Live Fire
I. For all existing members that are on the roster of a fire department effective
January 1, 2014, the minimum training required to be classified as a firefighter is the
BCBFP. Fire department members will participate in additional specialized training.
The minimum training requirements for operations on the fire ground is as follows:
Exterior operations Interior offensive operations -
completion of the BCBFP
completion of the BCBFP; as well as:
Live Fire I
Live Fire II
Fire Officers: Fire Officers will be trained to NFPA 1021 standards. Officers will
strive to meet the standards of training set for fire department members as per the
report “Fire Services Review: Proficiency Criteria and Honoraria” (see Appendix D),
and will also be expected to attend additional training opportunities necessary to fulfill
their role as officers such as Incident Command System, instructional techniques,
etc. The specific minimum training requirements of each officer position is listed in
Section 5 of the OG’s.
Limited Duties: Notwithstanding the above requirements, fire department members
who volunteer with the department in an “auxiliary capacity” may do so subject to the
following conditions: (See OG 5.8.6.1 “Auxiliary Firefighters”).
Limited duties due to physical restrictions by choice or medical reasons. In these
instances, the fire department member must:


complete all training in accordance with the Operational Guidelines with
an exemption for practical exams
at no time perform the skills for which they have been exempted.
Administrative duties, a fire department member may:
 participate in theory training only, with no practical training
 not provide assistance at the scene
REFERENCE:
CSRD Fire Services Operational Guidelines
IFSTA Essentials of Fire Fighting
Page 72 of 139
SECTION 3: FIRE SERVICES TRAINING STANDARDS
OG 3.1.0
TRAINING STANDARDS - Live Fire
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide for the safe operations during a live fire training exercise and to educate
fire department members to follow safe work practices for all live fire training
sessions.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Live fire training will only be conducted by trained fire department members with
authorization from the Fire Chief.
PROCEDURE:
All fire department members will perform their duties in a safe manner according to
the CSRD Fire Service Occupational Health and Safety Program, the CSRD Fire
Services Respiratory Protection Program, and the guidelines and policies of the
Shuswap Regional Fire Training Centre (SRFTC).
All live fire training events will be authorized by the Fire Chief.
All live fire training events will be conducted by fire department members experienced
and authorized in delivering live fire training events, as recognized in NFPA 1403.
Fire training at the SRFTC will be in compliance with the user agreement for that
facility as follows:
REFERENCE:

Fire Departments participating in the SRFTC Agreement are entitled to use
the facility provided they follow the related operational guidelines and
policies. Instructors must have adequate training in the proper use of
equipment and props, and all members participating in live fire maintenance
training must have successfully completed the appropriate Live Fire training
levels.

A Qualified Lead Instructor, recognized by the SRFTC, must be in
attendance, and will be responsible for supervising activities at all Live Fire
training events.
CSRD Fire Services Occupational and Health Program
CSRD Fire Services Respiratory Protection Program
SRFTC User Agreement
Page 73 of 139
SECTION 3: FIRE SERVICES TRAINING STANDARDS
OG 3.2
TRAINING STANDARDS - Off-Site Training
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidance regarding off-site training to those fire department members
requesting authorization to attend.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Off-site training is all training conducted outside of a fire protection service area.
Selection of training and the firefighters attending Off-Site Training events will be
determined by the Fire Chief.
PROCEDURE:
The Fire Chief will sign a letter authorizing the fire department member to participate
as a member of the fire department in a training event that is above and beyond the
normal scheduled practices or in-house training. This authorization will be kept on
file at the fire department and is a requirement of WCB.
At no time will a fire department member attend a training event without authorization
from the Fire Chief. If a fire department member proceeds to attend a training event
without the Fire Chief’s authorization, the fire department member will be considered
to be participating as an individual and is not considered to be representing the fire
department and therefore, will be personally liable for any costs incurred.
The Fire Chief will track expenditures in the annual training budget for his/her
department, and approve off-site training in accordance with the funds budgeted.
Page 74 of 139
SECTION 3: FIRE SERVICES TRAINING STANDARDS
OG 3.3
TRAINING STANDARDS - Emergency Vehicle Driver Training Program
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
PURPOSE:
To establish driver training standards for fire department members to enable them to
safely drive and operate fire department vehicles.
SCOPE:
All fire department members who drive and operate fire department vehicles.
GUIDELINE:
The fire department will train fire department members to meet the applicable
Provincial and Motor Vehicle Branch Regulations for the operation and driving of fire
department vehicles. Fire department members must complete the Emergency
Vehicle Driver Training Program for each vehicle before being cleared to
drive/operate that vehicle.
PROCEDURE:
Fire department members will provide a current copy of their driver’s licence and
driver’s abstract upon entry into the Emergency Vehicle Driver Training Program, as
well as the their Driver Training records.
Upon successful completion of the Emergency Vehicle Driver Training Program, the
fire department trainee member will:
Schedule driving sessions with a member of the department who is qualified to
drive/operate the vehicle involved. The fire department trainee member must log a
minimum of 2 hours of active drive time, not including time required for pre- and posttrip inspections. The fire department trainee member will be granted clearance as a
driver/operator on the vehicle based upon:



REFERENCE:
successful completion of the Emergency Vehicle Driver Training Program;
two hours of active drive time on the emergency vehicle involved; and
receiving a recommendation from the Fire Chief, after consultation with the
Emergency Vehicle Driver Training Program instructor(s).
Emergency Vehicle Driver Training Program Manual
CSRD Fire Services Operational Guidelines
BC Motor Vehicle Act
NFPA 1002
Page 75 of 139
SECTION 4: FIRE SERVICES INTER-AGENCY
OG 4.0
INTER-AGENCY - Office of the Fire Commissioner
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish a procedure for notifying and/or contacting the Office of the Fire
Commissioner for assistance as required.
SCOPE:
Applies to the Incident Commander (IC), Local Assistant to the Fire Commissioner or
Investigating Officer of any incident.
GUIDELINE:
The Office of the Fire Commissioner will be notified and/or contacted for assistance in
the following circumstances:











fire death(s), serious injury
suspicious fire (arson suspected or confirmed)
fires in unoccupied buildings
fires with multiple points of origin
fires outside a building with no logical point of origin
evidence of forced entry or burglary prior to arrival
witness at scene suspects arson
unusual loss of valuables from fire scene
fires of large dollar loss
to report unsafe premises with respect to fire safety, and
in the event of a potential building or area evacuation.
The Office of the Fire Commissioner will not be notified and/or contacted for
assistance in the following circumstances:




PROCEDURE:
Vehicle fires that are accidental in nature
Garbage container fires where there is no damage to adjacent buildings
building fires where accidental fires have caused no structural damage
false alarms where a witness reports a person activating the alarm system
It will be the responsibility of the IC, Local Assistant to the Fire Commissioner or the
Investigating Officer to contact the Office of the Fire Commissioner during normal
office hours, depending upon the nature of the incident.
After hours notification and/or assistance contact numbers are:

Office Of The Fire Commissioner
1-888-988-9488
IC will notify the RCMP of any suspicious fires or fire fatalities and obtain an RCMP
file number.
All fires with damage must be investigated by a Local Assistant to the Fire
Commissioner (LAFC) and reported to the Commissioner as defined in the Fire
Services Act, Part 1, Section 9(a). A fire officer will perform a Fire Cause and
Determination even if the Fire Investigator is not called.
(cont)
Page 76 of 139
SECTION 4: FIRE SERVICES INTER-AGENCY
OG 4.0
INTER-AGENCY - Office of the Fire Commissioner
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
Caution: If any material at the incident is to be used as evidence in an investigation or
subsequent trial, continuity of evidence must be maintained. This can be achieved by
keeping the fire department or a member on scene with the evidence secured until
the arrival of an investigator or the RCMP.
REFERENCE:
Fire Services Act - Section 13
Fire Services Act - Section 25
Page 77 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.0
ADMINISTRATION - Use of Alcohol and Drugs
Effective Date: January 1 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To ensure fire department members do not engage in fire department business while
under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Fire department members will not engage in fire department business while under the
influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, non-prescribed drugs, or prescription medication
that has been identified to impair judgement. Any physical or mental condition
including sleep deprivation that can affect an individual’s ability to drive a vehicle or
operate machinery or equipment is also prohibited.
PROCEDURE:
The Fire Chief or Officer in Charge will immediately remove a fire department
member if they arrive at an emergency or training scene while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs or deemed impaired to function effectively.
Attending any emergency or training scene while under the influence of alcohol or
drugs is a very serious and dangerous situation and will result in disciplinary action
being taken.
REFERENCE:
BC Motor Vehicle Act
Page 78 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.1
ADMINISTRATION - Leave of Absence
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines for fire department members who may wish to be temporarily
absent from fire department activities.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Upon request, the Fire Chief may grant a fire department member a leave of absence
from training and emergency responses on a temporary basis.
PROCEDURE:
The Fire Chief will consider a written request for a leave of absence for a period of up
to six (6) months within a twelve month period; the Fire Chief may approve such
requests at his or her discretion. An approved leave of absence will be in writing from
the Fire Chief to the member in question, with a copy to the Fire Services
Coordinator. The leave of absence will clearly state any limitations, conditions or
restrictions, including, in situations where the leave of absence exceeds three
months, and whether the member is forfeiting his or her rank in the department.
Fire department members on leave of absence will:
 be removed from the active duty list
 hand in their pager and fire department equipment, if requested by the Fire
Chief
 on returning to active duty, pass a performance evaluation conducted by the
Training Officer;
 forfeit their rank where such leave exceeds three months (at the discretion of
the Fire Chief – such forfeiture to be stated in the leave of absence approval)
Fire department members on an approved leave of absence will remain on CSRD
insurance coverage during such period.
Page 79 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.2
ADMINISTRATION - Members Complaint Procedure
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide a process where a fire department member has a complaint concerning
fire department operations or bullying and harassment.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
The Fire Chief and Deputy Fire Chief will be responsible to act on complaints from
fire department members concerning fire department’s operations. The complainant
will have the right to be heard as part of this process.
PROCEDURE:
When a fire department member has a complaint the following process will be
followed:
Step 1)
The Complainant will identify their complaint to his/her immediate
supervisor, respecting the chain of command:
 Captain
 Deputy Fire Chief
 Fire Chief
Step 2)
If a member feels that his/her immediate supervisor has not dealt with the
issue, or if the complaint relates to that supervisor, the member may take
his/her concern to the next level of authority. If the complaint is not
resolved to the member’s satisfaction, it may be progressively escalated to
the level of Fire Chief. All complaints that escalate to the Fire Chief must
be in writing.
Step 3)
If the member is not satisfied with the proposed resolution by the Fire
Chief, the complainant may address the complaint to the Fire Services
Coordinator. All complaints escalated to the Fire Services Coordinator
must be in writing. If the complaint is concerning the Fire Chief the
complainant may direct his or her complaint directly to the Fire Services
Coordinator.
All written documentation regarding a complaint will be forwarded for retention to the
Fire Services Coordinator of the CSRD as soon as reasonably possible.
Page 80 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.3
ADMINISTRATION - Promotions
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines on criteria to be used in the advancement and promotion of fire
department members.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Promotions are based on ability, training, knowledge and experience.
The Fire Chief is responsible for appointing deputies, captains and other officers he
or she considers necessary for the efficient operation of the fire department in
accordance with Fire Department Operational Criteria Bylaw and Standard Operating
Guidelines.
PROCEDURE:
The Fire Chief is responsible to:
 Post the position for a reasonable amount of time within the Fire Hall to allow
prospective candidates to consider the requirements and responsibilities of the
position prior to any appointment being made. Fire department members will
submit to the Fire Chief a written application for a posted position.
 Final selection will be based upon ability, training, knowledge and seniority, as
determined by the Fire Chief in his or her discretion.
 Appoint Officers and Acting Officers based on the criteria identified in this
guideline.
Consideration of appointment(s) may be discussed at a posted Officers’ meeting
where the Fire Chief will take into consideration the input from the officers of the
relevant fire department. The Fire Chief may also consult with the Fire Services
Coordinator.
The Fire Chief will notify the Fire Service Coordinator in writing of all new officer
appointments.
REFERENCE:
CSRD - Fire Department Operational Criteria Bylaw #5587
Page 81 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.4
ADMINISTRATION - Guidelines for Progressive Discipline
Effective Date: January 1, 2014 Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Public Safety
PURPOSE:
To provide procedures for fair and consistent application of progressive discipline
involving fire department members
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Progressive discipline will be utilized in an equitable and consistent manner. In all
instances where discipline is involved, the affected fire department member will have
the opportunity to be heard by the Fire Chief prior to any decision to impose action.
Any member having supervisory authority and responsible for other members will
discuss deficiencies in performance, conduct and other matters with subordinates as
soon as possible after such deficiencies are observed. Issues that may require
disciplinary action include behaviour or performance that is in violation of an
established rule, regulation, law, policy, guideline or standard.
Discipline measures will be documented, retained on the fire department member’s
personnel file, and be subject to appeal to the Fire Services Coordinator.
PROCEDURE:
Levels of Responsibility
The Fire Chief is responsible to maintain discipline throughout the fire department;
administering discipline includes submitting a formal written warning, temporarily
suspensions, or terminating a fire department member from duty. The Fire Chief or a
Deputy Fire Chief will provide assistance to the officers involved in disciplinary action.
Officers in Charge will be responsible to maintain discipline while in charge. They
are also responsible for administering discipline informally with members, followed by
submitting, in writing, to the Fire Chief, recommendations for formal discipline. An
Officer in Charge, acting in the absence of the Fire Chief, has the authority to
temporarily suspend a fire department member if such member is considered unfit to
perform his or her duties.
First Step of Progressive Discipline
Officers will discuss deficiencies in performance, conduct and other matters with the
fire department member and the Fire Chief as soon as possible after such
deficiencies are observed. The following steps will be followed as the first step in
Progressive Discipline:
Step 1)
Determine the problem.
Step 2)
Discuss the problem with the fire department member, in private, as soon
as possible following the infraction.
Step 3)
Explain the infraction involved.
Step 4)
Allow the fire department member to explain his or her action(s).
Step 5)
If appropriate, inform the fire department member that the discussion in
progress is a verbal reprimand and that continued infractions of this nature
will lead to formal disciplinary action.
(cont)
Page 82 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.4
ADMINISTRATION - Guidelines for Progressive Discipline
Effective Date: January 1, 2014 Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Public Safety
Step 6)
Where an officer has issued a verbal reprimand, he or she will report that
reprimand and the relevant circumstances to the Fire Chief. The Fire Chief
will document the facts concerning the verbal warning on an internal
Memorandum for future reference.
Step 7)
Allow time for improvement, then follow-up.
Next Step of Progressive Discipline- Formal Written Warning
In the event that the problem that was discussed in the first step of progressive
discipline is continued or again becomes an issue with a member, or the member
commits a different violation, or the action of a member is serious enough to bypass a
verbal warning, a formal written warning will be considered as a corrective measure.
The following steps will be followed:
Step 1)
The Fire Chief, Officer involved, and member will meet to review the
situation and discuss the problem.
Step 2)
If the fire department member’s version of the facts creates doubt as to the
accuracy of the information, the Fire Chief will initiate a further investigation
of the situation.
Step 3)
If warranted, the concerned fire department member will be given a written
notice by the Fire Chief of the infraction. The notice will set out the
circumstances, the process followed, the corrective action required, and
consequences if corrective action is not implemented. The written notice
will be placed in the member’s personnel file.
Step 4)
The fire department member being disciplined will have the right to appeal
the decision to the Fire Services Coordinator. An appeal must be in writing
and must be submitted to the Fire Services Coordinator within 30 days of
the date of the written notice.
Next Step of Progressive Discipline- Suspension
The same steps apply as the Formal Written Warning. A member may be suspended
if a member continues to display inappropriate behaviour despite earlier corrective
efforts or commits a very serious violation of department rules as a first offence. If
warranted, following a meeting with the member and an investigation, the fire
department member will be given a letter from the Fire Chief outlining the reason for
suspension, corrective action required, and that a consequence if corrective action is
not implemented may be termination. The written notice will be placed in the
member’s personnel file, and a copy of the written notice will be forwarded to the Fire
Services Coordinator.
The fire department member being disciplined shall have the right to appeal the
decision to the Fire Services Coordinator. An appeal must be in writing and must be
submitted within 30 days of the date of the written notice of suspension.
(cont)
Page 83 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.4
ADMINISTRATION - Guidelines for Progressive Discipline
Effective Date: January 1, 2014 Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Public Safety
Next Step of Progressive Discipline- Termination
The same steps apply as the Formal Written Warning. If warranted following a
meeting with the member and an investigation, the Fire Department Member will be
given a letter from the Fire Chief outlining the reason for termination. A copy of the
letter will be forwarded to the Fire Services Coordinator and the letter will be on file at
the Regional District. The Fire Chief will require the member to return any keys,
pager, issued equipment and other fire department assets.
The fire department member being disciplined will have the right to appeal the
decision to the Fire Services Coordinator. An appeal must be in writing and
submitted within 30 days of the date of the written notice of termination.
Emergency Temporary Suspensions:
In the absence of the Fire Chief, Officers and Incident Commander are empowered to
immediately suspend from duty any fire department member who, in the Officer’s
opinion, may be unfit for duty. Where such authority is exercised a written report of
the incident is to be provided to the Fire Chief. The Fire Chief will provide additional
comments to the report and review the disciplinary action that was recommended. If
warranted, a copy of any temporary suspension or other disciplinary action will be
recorded in the member’s file with the department and a copy will be forwarded to the
Fire Services Coordinator.
SUMMARY OF FORMS OF DISCIPLINARY ACTION:
Verbal warning, Internal Memorandum recorded in the Fire Chief’s file:
This will be carried out by the Fire Chief only.
suggested or required, if appropriate.
Training or counselling will be
Written warning, recorded in the fire department member’s personnel file:
This will be carried out by the Fire Chief only.
suggested or required, if appropriate.
Training or counselling will be
Suspension, recorded in the fire department member’s personnel file:
This will be carried out by the Fire Chief only.
suggested or required, as appropriate.
Training or counselling will be
Termination, recorded in a file at the Regional District:
This will be carried out by the Fire Chief only.
A dismissed fire department member may appeal the decision to the Fire Services
Coordinator.
Page 84 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.5
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Fire Chief
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To define the role and duties performed by the Fire Chief
SCOPE:
All Fire Chiefs
GUIDELINE:
The Fire Chief is directly responsible for fire department members and, as such will
ensure all members are familiar with and carry out their duties as outlined in the
Standard Operating Guidelines and referenced documents. In accordance with the
District SOG’s, the Fire Chief will be granted considerable independence of action in
making departmental administrative and technical decisions. The Fire Chief reports
to the CSRD Fire Services Coordinator.
PROCEDURE:
The Fire Chief will be responsible for:
 appointing deputies, assistants, and other officers
 evaluating performance of all fire department members
 the overall discipline and morale of the fire department and manage disciplinary
actions where required
 leading the officers of the department; supervise administrative and technical
work in planning, coach and mentor support for organizing and directing the
firefighting and fire prevention activities
 reporting regularly to the Fire Services Coordinator on the operation of the fire
department
 collaborating with the Fire Services Coordinator, and with support from CSRD
staff, prepare and track the annual budget
 keeping current with changing local conditions and technological changes in
firefighting and fire prevention
 exercising authority fairly
 organizing and directing all firefighting activities at large fires or emergencies
 requisitioning of materials and equipment
 directing the maintenance, repair, and replacement of firefighting equipment, fire
halls and other properties of the department
 ensuring written documentation is completed for the maintenance of all apparatus
and equipment
 in collaboration with the CSRD Fire Training Officers Association and the Fire
Departments Training Officer,
ensure that fire department members are
appropriately trained in methods of firefighting and use of fire department
equipment and apparatus, and ensuring training records are maintained and
accurately recorded into the FDM Records Management System.
(cont)
Page 85 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.5
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Fire Chief
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
 supervising the testing and care of fire hose and keeping related records
 recommending to the Fire Services Coordinator rules and regulations for the
efficient operation of the department
 Other duties as outlined in the CSRD Fire Services Operational Criteria Bylaw
The minimum training required for the position of Fire Chief is as follows:







BCBFP
Strategies & Tactics
Live Fire I
Live Fire II
Live Fire III
Rapid Intervention Training
NFPA 1021 CSRD Fire Officer Program
Attached is Appendix D that outlines further training that should be taken over time
relevant to the position of Fire Chief.
REFERENCE:
IFSTA Essentials 6th Edition
CSRD Fire Services Operational Criteria Bylaw No. 5587
CSRD Standard Operating Guidelines
Page 86 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.5.1
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Deputy Fire Chief
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To define the role and duties performed by the Deputy Fire Chief.
SCOPE:
Deputy Fire Chief
GUIDELINE:
The Deputy Fire Chief will ensure he or she is familiar with, and carries out, the duties
as outlined in the Standard Operating Guidelines and referenced documents.
PROCEDURE:
The Deputy Fire Chief will be responsible for:
 overall firefighting operations at both an administrative and supervisory level
 assuming the responsibilities of the Fire Chief in the Fire Chief’s absence
 carrying out routine administrative tasks and related clerical duties, discussing
all SOG matters with the Fire Chief
 ensuring the adequacy of attendance of fire department members,
departmental supplies, and the completeness and accuracy of the
departmental records
 assigning and organizing companies of the firefighters
 addressing attendance issues
 supervising equipment maintenance
 enforcing discipline throughout the department
 requisitioning supplies and keeping related records (as assigned by the Fire
Chief)
 ensuring the logging of all attendance records are complete and accurate
 responding to callouts and potentially commanding all phases of the firefighting
and other related duties.
The minimum training required for the position of Deputy Fire Chief is as follows:
 BCBFP
 Strategies & Tactics
 Live Fire I
 Live Fire II
 Live Fire III
 Rapid Intervention Training
Attached is Appendix D that outlines further training that should be taken over time
relevant to the position of Deputy Fire Chief.
REFERENCE:
IFSTA Essentials 6th Edition
CSRD Standard Operating Guidelines
Page 87 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.5.2
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Captain
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To define the role and duties performed by the Captain.
SCOPE:
All Captains.
GUIDELINE:
All Captains will ensure they are familiar with, and carry out, their duties as outlined in
the Operational Guidelines and referenced documents. Subject to the requirements
of written orders and regulations and the verbal directions of a superior, the Captain
exercises great independence of judgement and action while in command at fires.
PROCEDURE:
The Captain will be responsible for:
 Firefighting, including the command of an incident when required,
understanding apparatus operations, equipment use and tactical objectives
when deploying fire department members in the combating, extinguishing, and
prevention of fires including the saving of life and property.
 helping fire department members ensure the cleaning of equipment and
apparatus
 maintaining discipline and conduct
 supervision of tactical operations.
 directing the overhauling and cleaning of premises after the fire has been
extinguished
 supervising the return of all apparatus and equipment to their proper places in
the Fire Hall
 assisting with the training of fire department members
 compiling and keeping various records and reports as required.
The minimum training that is required for the position of Captain is as follows:





BCBFP
Strategies & Tactics
Live Fire I
Live Fire II
Rapid Intervention Team
Attached is Appendix ‘D’ that outlines further training that should be taken over time
relevant to the position of Captain.
REFERENCE:
IFSTA Essentials 6th Edition
Page 88 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.5.3
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Lieutenant
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To define the role and duties performed by the Lieutenant.
SCOPE:
All Lieutenants.
GUIDELINE:
Lieutenants will be familiar with, and carry out their duties as outlined in the
Operational Guidelines and referenced documents.
While subject to the
requirements of written orders and regulations and the verbal directions of a superior,
the Lieutenant exercises great independence of judgement and action while in
command at fires.
PROCEDURE:
The Lieutenant will be responsible for:
 the proper maintenance of apparatus and equipment in accordance with
standing orders and other regulations
 effectively extinguishing a fire, unless working under a superior officer
 helping fire department members to ensure the cleaning of equipment and
apparatus
 supervision of tactical operations.
 directing the overhauling and cleaning up of premises after the fire has been
extinguished
 supervising the return of all apparatus and equipment to their proper places in
the Fire Hall
 assisting with the training of fire department members
 compiling and keeping various records and reports as required
 performing the duties of Captains in their absence.
The position of Lieutenant is warranted for large fire departments when the span of
control for the position of Captain becomes too large.
The minimum training that is required for the position of Lieutenant is as follows:




REFERENCE:
BCBFP
Strategies & Tactics
Live Fire I
Live Fire II
IFSTA Essentials 6th Edition
Page 89 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.5.4
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Training Officer
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To define the role and duties performed by the Training Officer.
SCOPE:
All Training Officers.
GUIDELINE:
All Training Officers will be familiar with, and carry out their duties as outlined in the
Operational Guidelines and referenced documents.
While subject to the
requirements of written orders and regulations and the verbal directions of a superior,
the Training Officer will exercise great independence of judgement and action while in
command at fires. Under the direction of the Fire Chief and or Deputy Fire Chief, the
Training Officer will develop and deliver the fire department training program to all fire
department members.
PROCEDURE:
The Training Officer will be responsible for:
 Collaborating with the Fire Chief, the Fire Services Coordinator and other
Training Officers in the design, development, coordination, and scheduling of a
regional training program, including special training programs
 determining departmental training needs
 maintaining training records for all fire department members
 evaluating the continuity of training and fire department members skills and
knowledge
 conducting training
 firefighting operations entailing, at times, the command of an incident,
apparatus, equipment and fire department members in the combating,
extinguishing and preventing of fires and saving of life and property
 helping senior fire department members and ensuring the cleaning of
equipment and apparatus
 supervision of tactical operations.
 directing the overhauling and cleaning of premises after the fire has been
extinguished
 supervising the return of all apparatus and equipment to their proper places in
the Fire Hall
 compiling and keeping various records and reports as assigned
(cont)
Page 90 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.5.4
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Training Officer
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
The minimum training that is required for the position of Training Officer is as follows:







REFERENCE:
BCBFP
BCBF Train the Trainer
Strategies & Tactics
Live Fire I
Live Fire II
Fire Services Instructor I
Fire Services instructor II
IFSTA Essentials 6th Edition
Page 91 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.5.5
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Firefighter
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To define the role and duties performed by the firefighter.
SCOPE:
All firefighters.
GUIDELINE:
All firefighters will be familiar with, and carry out their duties within their capabilities as
outlined in, the Operational Guidelines and referenced documents.
PROCEDURE:
The firefighter will be responsible for:
 firefighting, entailing the combating, extinguishing and preventing of fires, and
saving of life and property
 rapidly and efficiently performing various duties under emergency conditions
frequently involving considerable hazard
 responding to fire alarms, laying and connecting hoses, holding nozzles and
directing water streams, raising and climbing ladders, and using chemical
extinguishers, bars, hooks, lines and other equipment
 ventilating fire to release heat and smoke, placing salvage covers to prevent
water damage and preventing fire from rekindling
 driving and operating motor-driven firefighting equipment as required
 performing various routine maintenance tasks on apparatus and equipment,
and fire department property
 carrying out fire prevention and public education activities as required
 developing and maintaining firefighting skills and knowledge
 carrying out the specific orders and directions of a superior officer within the
scope of the fire department member’s training and comfort level
 reporting and documenting any exposures to hazardous materials or other
hazardous conditions that occur while participating in firefighting-related
activities
 exercising considerable independence of judgement and action in
circumstances of extreme urgency where referral to a superior for instruction is
not possible.
 firefighter has the right to refuse operations that are assigned where the
conditions of personal safety are considered to be of high risk.
(cont)
Page 92 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.5.5
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Firefighter
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
The minimum training required for the position of firefighter is as follows:
Exterior Operations
BC Basic Firefighting Program
Offensive Interior Operations
BC Basic Firefighting Program
Live Fire I
Live Fire II
Note: Effective January 1 2014 the minimum training required for new members to be
considered as a firefighter is the BCBFP and Live Fire I.
REFERENCE:
IFSTA Essentials 6th Edition
BC Basic Firefighting Program
Page 93 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.5.6
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Probationary Firefighter
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To define the role and duties performed by probationary fire department members.
SCOPE:
All probationary fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
All probationary fire department members will be familiar with, and carry out their
duties as outlined in the Operational Guidelines and referenced documents.
At the end of the probationary period the Fire Chief and the Training Officer will be
responsible for the final recommendation of the Probationary Firefighter to full fire
department member status.
PROCEDURE:
The probationary firefighter will be on probation for a minimum time of 3 (3) months,
six months as a Recruit firefighter and three months as a Probationary firefighter.
Extensions will be considered at the discretion of the Fire Chief.
The probationary fire department member’s duties will include:
 routine duties in the Fire Hall
 probation training on regular practice nights
 responding to the Fire Hall for assignment for emergency call outs,
probationary member will be limited to exterior operations only
 attendance at a minimum of 60% of the training sessions during the probation
period
 any station work that brings the apparatus back into service
 attending as many regular and extra scheduled training sessions as possible.
A probationary fire department member will become a member of the fire department
subject to achievement of the following:



REFERENCE:
BCBFP
Live Fire I
recommendation from the Fire Chief and the Training Officer
IFSTA Essentials 6th Edition
OG # 3.0.1 Training Standards
Page 94 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.5.7
ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Recruit Firefighters
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To ensure the new recruit firefighter is given information and training to prepare them
for response to an emergency situation and is fully aware of the expectations of the
fire department and what is necessary in order to become a full status member.
SCOPE:
All new recruit firefighters.
GUIDELINE:
All recruit firefighters will be familiar with, and carry out their duties as outlined in the
Operational Guidelines and reference documents.
PROCEDURE:
A new recruit will have six (6) months to complete the BCBFP. At the start of the six
month period, the recruit firefighter will be issued turnout gear for training purposes.
At the completion of the BCBFP, the firefighter will be issued a pager, and may
respond to emergencies to assist with exterior operations only.
The following must be completed in order for a new recruit to be considered eligible
to move onto Probationary Firefighter status:
 a fire department application for membership,
 attendance at a minimum of 60% of the training sessions during the six month
recruit period
 completion of the BCBFP
 a recommendation by the Fire Chief and the Training Officer to progress to
Probationary Firefighter status
REFERENCE:
IFSTA Essentials 6th Edition
OG# 3.0.1 Training Standards
Page 95 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.5.7.1 ADMINISTRATION - Role and Duties - Auxiliary Firefighter
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To define the role and duties performed by an auxiliary firefighter.
SCOPE:
All firefighters.
GUIDELINE:
All auxiliary firefighters will be familiar with, and carry out their duties within their
capabilities as outlined in, the Operational Guidelines and referenced documents.
PROCEDURE:
The auxiliary firefighter will be responsible for:
 driving and operating motor-driven firefighting equipment as required
 assist with laying out hoses on the fire ground
 performing various maintenance tasks on apparatus and equipment
 carrying out fire prevention and public education activities as required
 performing routine maintenance of firefighting equipment and fire department
property
 support station officer with records management
 support Incident Command with accountability system and communication
 assist Training Officer with lesson plans and documentation
 support the Incident Safety Officer
 carrying out the specific orders and directions of a superior officer within the
scope of the fire department member’s training and comfort level
 provide assistance to fire patients
 assist in traffic control services, if trained to do so
 assist with cleaning of turn out gear
 monitor and evaluate firefighters for fatigue, assist with rehabilitation of
firefighters
Auxiliary firefighters have not completed the BC Basic Firefighting Program and are
not to engage in fire suppression or emergency rescue operations, either exterior or
interior.
REFERENCE:
IFSTA Essentials 6th Edition
Page 96 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.5.8
ADMINISTRATION - Honorariums
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide clarification on honorariums for all paid per call fire department members.
SCOPE:
Fire Chief, Deputy Fire Chief, Officers, and members of all CSRD Fire Departments
GUIDELINE:
All honorariums will be based on CSRD Policy No. F-12. (see Appendix C).
Changes to Policy F-12 must be approved by the CSRD Board of Directors.
PROCEDURE:
The Fire Services Coordinator will review the remuneration as outlined in Policy No.
F-12 every three (3) years. This review will include a comparison of rural fire
departments in other regional districts in the Province. The process for proposed
changes to Policy No. F-12 is as follows:




REFERENCE:
The Fire Services Coordinator will consult with the CSRD Fire Chiefs on the
proposed changes
The Fire Services Coordinator will consult with the Fire Suppression
Committees on the
budget implications of the proposed changes in
remuneration
The proposed changes will be presented to the Electoral Area Directors
Committee
Changes to Policy No. F-12 will be presented to the CSRD Board of Directors
for approval in conjunction with the annual budget process
CSRD Policy No. F-12
Page 97 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.5.9
ADMINISTRATION - Remuneration Joint OH&S Committee
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To confirm the remuneration provided to the members that participate in the Joint
Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) Committee
SCOPE:
All members of the joint OH&S Committee.
GUIDELINE:
The CSRD fulfills its obligation to have an OH&S program for the fire services
function by establishing a joint committee that consists of three firefighters elected
from the thirteen fire departments, two Fire Chiefs, and the Fire Services Coordinator.
This approach has been approved by an order given under the Workers’
Compensation Act (BC). This duty is beyond the scope of fire suppression service
and additional remuneration is provided.
PROCEDURE:
Members of the OH&S Committee will be reimbursed at a rate of $40 per meeting
plus mileage at the current CSRD mileage rate. Members will fill in an expense form
at each meeting and submit the expense form to the Fire Services Coordinator.
REFERENCE:
CSRD Fire Services Joint OH&S Program Manual
Page 98 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.6
ADMINISTRATION - Criminal Record Reviews
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To ensure all new fire department applicants and current fire department members
have undergone a criminal records review.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
All new applicants joining a fire department must complete an RCMP Criminal Record
Review.
PROCEDURE:
A criminal record review form will be provided by the Fire Chief.
The criminal record review must be completed and submitted to the local RCMP
Detachment, or completed and submitted on-line.
The results of the criminal record reviews are overseen by the Fire Services
Coordinator (FSC). Where a criminal record is identified, the FSC will forward the file
to the Regional District CAO. The CAO will consider the seriousness of the offence
and how recent the offence was before making a recommendation of acceptance to
the FSC. The Regional District CAO may request a personal interview prior to
formulating a recommendation.
Page 99 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.7
ADMINISTRATION - Records Retention and Management
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To establish a procedure for securing, retaining, and accessing fire department
records.
SCOPE:
All fire department records including correspondence, reports, forms, bylaws,
drawings, contracts, etc.
GUIDELINE:
All records kept for fire department business are to be retained in a secure location at
the Fire Hall, unless otherwise indicated in the Operational Guidelines, and kept for
an appropriate period in accordance with Regional District Records Retention Bylaw
#5224 and as otherwise required by applicable laws and regulations. Further, all
training and maintenance records, certifications of achievement, fire incidents reports,
and other relevant information will be posted on the corporate Records Management
System as directed by the Fire Services Coordinator.
PROCEDURE:
The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act requires public bodies to
disclose existing records and sets out the rights for accessing the information. All fire
department records on which information is recorded are considered a corporate
responsibility and are covered by the Act.
Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy requests will be forwarded to the
Fire Chief by the Fire Services Coordinator. The Fire Chief must provide the
requested records to the Fire Services Coordinator within the time frame identified in
the request.
All records and forms will be completed and maintained in accordance with WorkSafe
BC requirements and regulations. Injuries and occupational diseases shall be
reported to WorkSafe BC as required and in accordance with the Occupational
Health and Safety Policy. Records must be maintained as to an individual’s exposure
to suspected toxic products or contagious diseases. Meeting minutes of the
Occupational Health and Safety Joint Committee must be posted as required at each
fire hall, and retained for WorkSafe BC. All accident investigation records must be
created and maintained as required by WorkSafe BC. All training records must be
maintained as required by WorkSafe BC.
REFERENCE:
Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
Workers’ Compensation Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation
BC Motor Vehicle Act
CSRD Records Retention Bylaw #5224
CSRD Occupational Health and Safety Program
Page 100 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.8
ADMINISTRATION - Appointment of Fire Chiefs
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines for the appointment of Fire Chiefs.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Each CSRD fire department has a Fire Chief. Members may apply to the Fire
Services Coordinator for the position of Fire Chief once the Fire Services Coordinator
invites applications.
PROCEDURE:
Fire Chiefs will be appointed for a three year term. The Fire Services Coordinator will
post the Fire Chief position at the respective fire hall at least six months prior to
expiration of the term or upon a vacancy in the position. The process for appointing
a Fire Chief is as follows:





Member will submit an application to the Fire Services Coordinator for the
position of Fire Chief by the deadline date
Applications will be considered by the Fire Services Coordinator and his/her
manager(s)
CSRD staff will meet with each applicant
CSRD staff will survey or interview the officers and some members of the
relevant fire department to get more information on the candidate(s)
The criteria for the selection of members for the position of Fire Chief will be
as follows:









Training completed (Proficiency Criteria and Honorarium Review,
Dave Mitchell & Associates Report 2011 will be used as a
benchmark)
Commitment to training
Experience in the fire department and fire services
Professional experience, volunteer experience, etc.
Education
Communication and leadership skills
Availability
Compatibility with members
The Fire Services Coordinator will recommend the preferred candidate for
the position of Fire Chief to the CSRD Board for approval.
The Fire Services Coordinator will conduct an annual performance review with each
Fire Chief.
REFERENCE:
CSRD Policy No. W-9 “Appointment of Fire Chiefs”
Page 101 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.9
ADMINISTRATION - Firefighter Liability
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide clarification on liability.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
The CSRD maintains insurance coverage to provide protection against personal
liability claims; liability protection is applicable to all members of CSRD fire
departments while performing fire department-related duties.
PROCEDURE:
In accordance with the provisions of CSRD Indemnification Bylaw No. 5025, the
CSRD will indemnify all members of CSRD fire departments from any claim for
damages arising out of the performance of his/her fire department-related duties
where such damages are in excess of insurance coverage in respect of the claim.



REFERENCE:
Members will perform all duties to approved standards and supervisor’s
direction
Members will exercise good judgement when situations require deviation
from Standard Operating Guidelines
Members may expose themselves to liability in cases of dishonesty, gross
misconduct, gross negligence, slander and libel, acting contrary to the
Standard Operating Guidelines or contrary to direct orders from a supervisor
CSRD Indemnification Bylaw No. 5025
Page 102 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.10
ADMINISTRATION - Pre-Incident Planning Inspections
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines for pre-incident planning inspections at public buildings such as
rest homes, high risk industrial buildings, and schools.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
The purpose of these inspections is to better enable effective responses by the fire
department. It is not to conduct inspections of “public buildings” as contemplated by
the Fire Services Act (BC).
Each fire department that has rest homes, high risk industrial buildings, hotels/motels
and schools within its service area are encouraged to complete pre-incident planning
inspections of these facilities on a regular basis (subject to resources available) to
ensure that firefighters are familiar with the life hazards that may exist in each facility.
Members who perform this function must have training in inspection procedures and
a general understanding of the requirements of the Fire Services Act and the BC Fire
Code. In developing its preplanning, each fire department should review and apply
NFPA 1602 – Standard for Pre-Incident Planning (current edition).
PROCEDURE:
The Fire Chief will designate those members authorized to undertake the inspections
and pre-planning contemplated by this guideline, in accordance with section 16(b) of
the Operational Criteria Bylaw No. 5587.
The member conducting the inspection will call the facility manager or school
principal to schedule an appointment with the person who is in charge of
maintenance of the facility.
Members will document all information that identifies fire code issues and potential
fire hazards. This information will be compiled into the CSRD GIS system and the
FDM RMS.
REFERENCES:
NFPA 1602
Operational Criteria Bylaw No. 5587
Page 103 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.11
ADMINISTRATION - Illegal Outdoor Burning
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines for fire department members who respond to calls involving
illegal outdoor open burning.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Illegal outdoor fires will be extinguished by responding CSRD fire departments. A
minimum of two members should respond to calls of illegal outdoor open burning.
PROCEDURE:
Members attending an outdoor open burn, will request from the property owner or
resident, a Kamloops Fire Centre registration number that authorizes such open burn.
The material being burned must be wood waste. The members will extinguish all
open fires where:
 a registration cannot be produced,
 there is a ban on outdoor open burning imposed by the Ministry of Forests, Lands
and Natural Resource Operations,
 the material being burned is demolition waste or household garbage,
 if smoke is causing harm to nearby residents, or
 if open burning is considered a risk by members in attendance.
The members will request RCMP attendance if the resident becomes confrontational.
The members will take photos of the fire and complete an Incident Report. The
members will request fire dispatch to inform the Wildfire Management Branch
(Compliance and Enforcement) in the event that violations of a burn prohibition are
evident.
If the resident is burning prohibited materials such as demolition waste or household
waste that is causing pollution and adversely impacting air quality, the members will
report the resident to the Ministry of Environment Report All Poachers and Polluters
(RAPP) line: 1-877-952-7277.
Page 104 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.12
ADMINISTRATION - Complaints from the Public
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines for fire department members who receive a complaint from the
public.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Complaints should be forwarded to the member’s Fire Chief. Members will be
courteous when receiving a complaint from the public, and helpful to provide the
appropriate contact information and document the complaint.
PROCEDURE:
The member will provide the contact information of the Fire Chief to any person that
wishes to lodge a complaint concerning fire services , and if the situation permits,
obtain the relevant information from the person as outlined below.




The member will document the name, address, phone number, and email
address (if applicable) of the person making a complaint, as well as the
nature of the complaint.
The member will forward the information to the Fire Chief as soon as
possible.
The Fire Chief will respond to the person lodging the complaint. A copy of
the complaint will be forwarded to the Fire Services Coordinator. At the
discretion of the Fire Chief, the Chief will consult with the Fire Services
Coordinator prior to responding.
The Fire Services Coordinator will forward the complaint to management at
the CSRD as appropriate.
Page 105 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.13
ADMINISTRATION - Accident to Apparatus
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines for fire department members in the event of an accident that
involves CSRD Fire Department apparatus.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
All motor vehicle accidents will be reported to the Fire Chief and the CSRD Fire
Services Coordinator.
PROCEDURE:
In the event of an accident that involves CSRD owned apparatus, the driver or other
fire department member at the scene will follow the following procedure:









Notify fire dispatch immediately. If on route to an incident and the apparatus
is unable to respond to the incident, request dispatch to call out another unit
Notify the Fire Chief immediately
Obtain all information required to complete a Vehicle Accident/Loss
Investigation Report
Request RCMP attendance if there is major damage to the apparatus, or if
there are injuries
If the accident is minor, delegate a crew member to stay at the scene of the
accident to gather information, and continue to respond to the incident
If the accident is a hit & run, notify the RCMP within 48 hours and obtain a
police file number
Notify the CSRD Fire Services Coordinator by the end of the next business
day
Complete the incident report and forward to the CSRD as soon as practically
possible. The driver must report all accidents involving apparatus on an
Incident Report, no matter how minor
Members that are involved in an accident will not admit blame or fault to
others involved in the accident or witnesses at the scene
Page 106 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.14
ADMINISTRATION - Mutual Aid
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines for CSRD fire departments to provide mutual aid to other
CSRD fire departments.
SCOPE:
All fire Chiefs and Officers.
GUIDELINE:
A CSRD Fire Department will ordinarily respond only to calls emanating from the
particular fire suppression service area in which it is located. A CSRD Fire
Department will respond in another fire suppression service area only if requested by
an Incident Commander in such fire suppression service area, or an Incident
Commander of a member municipality that has a Mutual Aid Agreement with the
CSRD, or instructed to do so by the Fire Services Coordinator.
PROCEDURE:
All CSRD fire departments are committed to provide mutual aid to other CSRD fire
departments (and member municipal fire departments that have a Mutual Aid
Agreement in effect) if possible.

Where an Incident Commander, in his or her sole and absolute discretion,
determines that additional resources are required from another CSRD fire
department or member municipal fire department (where a mutual aid
agreement in effect), the Incident Commander may request mutual aid.

A Chief Fire or designate who receives a request for emergency resources
from an Incident Commander of another fire department may respond with
equipment and personnel available to assist to control the Emergency,
however a Fire Chief or designate, in his or her sole and absolute discretion,
may decline to assist if in his or her opinion, adequate resources are not
available. Where a request for mutual aid is refused, the refusing department
will ensure that its inability to respond is promptly and clearly communicated to
Fire Dispatch and to the Fire Services Coordinator.

In the event that the fire department that is first contacted declines to assist,
Fire dispatch will contact another fire department in geographic proximity to
respond.

A fire suppression service area will not be left unprotected. All requests for
mutual aid will be communicated to Fire Dispatch, who will dispatch the
appropriate CSRD Fire Department and will arrange for backup protection to
the Local Service Area responding to the mutual aid request. The Dispatcher
will also contact the Fire Services Coordinator to advise that mutual aid
resources are being deployed. At no time will the dispatchers make any
arrangements that have not been specifically asked for and agreed to by the
Incident Commander and all concerned Fire Chiefs.

The Incident Commander will remain in-charge and direct all mutual aid
resources in co-operation with the responding mutual aid Officer in charge. A
unified command or command support consistent with the ICS model may be
established.
(cont)
Page 107 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.14
ADMINISTRATION - Mutual Aid
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
As soon as the Emergency has been brought under control, any mutual aid resources
will be released first before any local resources are released.
REFERENCE:

Fire Chiefs and the Fire Services Coordinator will consult on a regular basis on
the best ways to achieve the optimum deployment of emergency resources to
control Emergencies within the region.

Remuneration paid to fire department members who respond to a request for
mutual aid will be in accordance with Policy No. F-12; funding will be from the
responding fire department’s budget, not from the budget of the fire
department that is requesting mutual aid.
CSRD Fire Services Operational Criteria Bylaw #5587
BCERMS ICS
Page 108 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.15
ADMINISTRATION - Media
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines on how to deal with the media.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Members who receive a request for information from the media will direct the media
person to the Incident Commander, Fire Chief or Officer in charge. At no time will
members act as a representative for the fire department and provide information to
the media.
PROCEDURE:
All inquiries from the media to fire department members will be directed to the Fire
Chief. If the Fire Chief is not present, inquiries will be directed to the Incident
Commander or officer in charge.
General
The Incident Commander, Fire Chief, or officer delegated to provide information to
the media will do so as long as it does not interfere with the delivery of emergency
services.
No statements or confirmation of any kind concerning the various fire department
operations, personal member information, potential fault or liability is to be
expressed. No personal information is to be released regarding the residents
affected by the incident.
Members have no authority to allow the media to enter private property. The media
may be allowed to enter areas cordoned off by the RCMP at a major incident – when
this happens, the Incident Commander accepts responsibility for the media on the
scene.
Information Eligible for Release to the Media
Information released to the media will be limited to the following:











the address of the incident
the name of the Incident Commander
the number of apparatus attending
difficulties encountered (smoke, asbestos, chemicals)
time the call was received
injuries sustained by members attending (names may only be released with
permission of the member and only after the next of kin has been notified)
rescues performed – request for names of those rescued or injured should
not be released and the media should be directed to the RCMP
the extent of damage
special equipment used e.g., Foam)
measures taken to contain the emergency
dimensions and general nature of the premises involved.
(cont)
Page 109 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.15
ADMINISTRATION - Media
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
The media will not be provided any information concerning:





operational difficulties which may be the subject of a subsequent inquiry
the details of building contents
the cause of the fire until determined by the Local Assistant to the Fire
Commissioner
the personal information of parties involved (including building owners,
residents and firefighters injured at the scene)
any potential liability or fault
Press Releases
Press releases concerning regional district fire department business will be prepared
and released by the Fire Services Coordinator.
Page 110 of 139
SECTION 5: FIRE SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
OG 5.16
ADMINISTRATION - Social Media
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines for members on the use of social media.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
Members will not post any photos, videos, or statements on social media that are
related in any way with the fire department fire ground operations or any fire incident.
PROCEDURE:
The taking of photos, videos, or documentation of information that is related to any
fire incident or fire department activity will be directed by the Fire Chief or Incident
Commander.
Photos, videos, and documentation of information as directed by the Fire Chief or
Incident Commander are records of the fire department and will be secured
consistent with OG #5.8- Records Retention and Management.
At no time will any photos, videos, or documentation of information be undertaken by
a member without direction from the Fire Chief or Incident Commander, whether
using fire department equipment or personal equipment.
At no time will any photos, videos, or documentation of information be posted on
social media by fire department members, Social media includes Facebook, Twitter,
inter-active web sites and other sites on the internet where information is shared.
Members are not permitted to post statements on social media that are related in any
way with the fire department or any fire incident.
Social Media use for the benefit of Public Education and Fire and Life Safety
Prevention and the recruitment and retention of volunteers must be discussed with
the Fire Services Coordinator.
Social media guidelines will be consistent with CSRD corporate policy on social
media use.
Page 111 of 139
SECTION 6: FIRE SERVICES MAINTENANCE
OG 6.0
MAINTENANCE - Apparatus Maintenance
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines relative to apparatus maintenance.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
All fire department apparatus will be maintained and be ready for emergency
response at all times.
PROCEDURE:
The Fire Chief will be responsible for ensuring that apparatus maintenance activities
are carried out by the mechanical contractors that are on contract with the CSRD.
The Fire Chief will be responsible to ensure members are conducting pre-trip and
post-trip inspections and associated minor maintenance to the apparatus.


The contractor providing apparatus maintenance is contracted to provide
prescribed fleet apparatus servicing annually, and a second annual visit to
provide a light servicing.
A second contractor is scheduled to provide Fire Engine pump maintenance
and testing annually.
After use, before members stand down from a call or practice, all apparatus will be:






refilled with water
checked to ensure that all equipment is cleaned and in its appropriate place
with all switches and controls in their appropriate settings,
plugged in for electrical circuits and air lines, where applicable,
fluid levels checked,
fuelled, and
the post-trip inspection will be completed and results recorded.
Annual Motor Vehicle Inspections will be completed and submitted to the Regional
District for all fire department apparatus no later than December 15th of each year.
Page 112 of 139
SECTION 6: FIRE SERVICES MAINTENANCE
OG 6.1
MAINTENANCE - Fire Hose Annual Pressure Test
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines relative to fire hose maintenance.
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
All fire departments will annually inspect and test fire hoses in compliance with NFPA
Standards to ensure that hoses are ready for emergency response at all times.
Members must be knowledgeable of the various types of hose carried on department
apparatus, understand the use and limitations of each type and know how to check
hose condition.
PROCEDURE:
During the month of April, the Fire Chief is responsible for ensuring all hose at the fire
hall is tested and inspected.
Inspection and testing will be conducted as follows:














REFERENCE:
conduct a visual inspection of all hose to be tested. Look for damage or
excessive wear to jacket and couplings and/or worn or damaged gaskets.
mark all fire hose completely around, directly next to the couplings, if the
mark indicates movement the hose is taken out of service, then tagged for
repair.
hose should be free of jacket holes and couplings should be undamaged and
turn easily. When full of water, there should be no leaks or weeping from the
jackets and coupling leaks should be minimal.
hose that fails visual inspection will be removed from the testing area and
tagged for repair. Hose that can’t be repaired will be condemned.
test multiple jacket hose at the pressures defined
NFPA Standards for testing multi-jacket hose used for firefighting purposes
are: Booster- 150 psi, 11/2” to 4”- 250 psi, 5” -200 psi
test a single jacket hose at 300 psi, includes blue 5” hose
keep back a minimum of 10 meters (thirty feet) from hose and couplings
under pressure test, total length to be tested will not exceed 300 feet and
lines will be without twists and kinks
do not allow public on testing area during hose pressure test
close nozzle after air is expelled; slowly increase to test pressure and hold for
five minutes. If hose fails, tag the failure site and send hose for repairs. If
failure is less than 11 meters long or the failure is in the middle of the length,
it should be condemned
remove all air from the hose to be tested before closing the nozzle and
raising the pressure. Test pressures introduce a serious accident/rupture
potential if any air remains in the system
remove the nozzle, disconnect, and drain the hose
keep tested hose separate from untested hose
record all hose that has been inspected and tested in the FDM RMS.
IFSTA - Essentials of Firefighting
NFPA 1961 - Standard on Fire Hose
NFPA 1963 - Standard for Screw Threads and Gaskets for Fire Hose Connections
NFPA 1901 - Standard for Pumper Fire Apparatus
NFPA 1962 - 5 Standards for the testing of Fire Hoses
Page 113 of 139
SECTION 6: FIRE SERVICES MAINTENANCE
OG 6.2
MAINTENANCE - Ground Ladders
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev: 2007
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To provide guidelines relative to care and maintenance of fire ground ladders
SCOPE:
All fire department members.
GUIDELINE:
It is the responsibility of the Fire Chief to ensure that proper safety, care and
maintenance procedures are followed by all members when working with or
maintaining ground ladders, as well as keeping records on individual ladders.
PROCEDURE:
Ground ladders will be cared for and maintained as outlined in the Guideline.
Ground ladders will be formally inspected by a qualified contractor every two years.
In the event that a ladder has been used in a fire call and exposed to heat, a formal
inspection will be done before the ladder is placed back into service.
Inspect ground ladders at the beginning of any ladder drill, after use at fires and
during regular cleaning and maintenance. Minimum regular inspection is monthly.
Check ladders for:



bends, cracks, fractures in beam or rungs
broken or cracked welds, broken pulleys, metal bars, loose rungs, rivets,
bolts, crews and spurs
halyard wear and decay
Remove from service ladders that have defects and advise the Fire Chief. Ladders
must be repaired or replaced.
Maintenance to Ladders is as follows:





REFERENCE:
Replace halyard ropes as required
After any replacement or adjustment to halyards, ladders must be tested by
fully extending and retracting ladder before placing ladder back in service
Remove dirt and grime from ladder. Fly should be extended and truss blocks
cleaned first
Check to ensure ladders operate properly, includes raising the fly and
ensuring the dogs lock
Record all ladder inspections in the FDM RMS.
WCB OH&S Regulations 31.37
NFPA 1500 1932
A ground ladder must be used, tested and maintained in accordance with the
requirements of NFPA 1932, Use, Maintenance, and Service Testing of Fire
Department Ground Ladders, 1989 Edition.
Page 114 of 139
SECTION 6: FIRE SERVICES MAINTENANCE
OG 6.3
MAINTENANCE - Hydrants
Effective Date: January 1, 2014
Last Rev:
Responsible Dept: Operations
PURPOSE:
To define a procedure for inspection, testing and maintenance of all types of fire
hydrants to help ensure their operability for the suppression of fires.
SCOPE:
Fire Services Coordinator, Operations Administration.
GUIDELINE:
All types of hydrants that are located within fire suppression service areas and are on
the fire hydrant maintenance list shall be maintained to the B.C Fire Code Standard
and will be tested annually by the CSRD contractor that is qualified to inspect and
maintain fire hydrants.
PROCEDURE:
The contractor engaged by the Regional District will inspect, test and maintain all
hydrants that are in the hydrant servicing schedule on an annual basis.
The contractor will record all hydrant inspections including specific maintenance
performed on each fire hydrant and forward written documentation of the work
performed to the Regional District. This list will include hydrants used for fire practice
and dry hydrants.
The contractor will report all hydrants the do not function properly and need further
repair beyond the scope of the hydrant maintenance contract to the Regional District
immediately, specifying the hydrant number, location and repairs needed.
The contractor will report to the Regional District any obstruction on public or private
property that may restrict access to any fire hydrant.
REFERENCE:
Fire Underwriters Survey Water Supply for Public Fire Protection
NFPA 291 - Hydrant Testing and Marking
NFPA 1142, 2007 edition, section 8.3.3
BC Fire Code - Section 6.6.4
Page 115 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Part 1 Purpose and Responsibilities
The Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) program was developed to promote a safe, healthy
workplace both at the Fire Hall and at emergency scenes. Fire department members will be trained and
in compliance with all aspects of the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) Standard Operating
Guidelines (OGs) as well as the OH&S program.
The CSRD, with the approval of WorkSafe BC, has established a joint fire services OH&S Committee that
consists of three firefighters, two Fire Chiefs and the Fire Services Coordinator. The joint OH&S
Committee represents all thirteen fire departments (Fire Departments).
The principal legislative sources for OH&S obligations are the Workers’ Compensation Act (BC) (the
“WCA”) and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, BC Reg 296/97 (the “WCA Regulation”).
Other regulations also may apply. Both the statute and the regulations are subject to regular amendment.
The content of this OH&S Program is subject to any changes in the underlying legislation or regulations.
When the OH&S Program is reviewed in accordance with Part 12, the review should include a
consideration of the applicable legislation and regulations.
Fire Department members:





are to be trained and knowledgeable in the safe performance of their duties,
are to ensure they follow safe work practices,
must report unsafe conditions,
will work collectively toward the prevention of accidents, and
are to follow the procedures contained within the OH&S program and the OGs.
Fire Department officers are responsible for supervising Fire Departments members under the WCA and
are to ensure that:



Fire Department members receive proper training,
Fire Department members carry out their duties in a safe, effective manner, and
safe work practices are enforced while unsafe practices are corrected in a timely manner.
Page 116 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Part 2 Safe Work Procedures
Written instructions with regard to how Fire Department members will safely carry out their duties are to
be available for reference at all times by Fire Department members and will be an integral part of the
Departments’ training programs. The OGs shall constitute those instructions. The OGs shall be updated
and revised in accordance with the Regional District’s Policy W-10: “Fire Service Standard Operating
Guidelines.”
Protective Clothing, Equipment and Apparatus

Each Fire Department is to provide each member with appropriate protective clothing, equipment
and apparatus appropriate to the hazards of the work environment.

Each Fire Department is to maintain inspection, maintenance, repair and service records for all
vehicles and equipment used for emergency operations.

All Fire Department members are to be fully trained in the use, inspection, maintenance and
limitations of such protective clothing, equipment and apparatus.

In accordance with the OGs, Fire Department members must use the protective clothing and
equipment whenever they may be exposed to hazards.

All protective clothing, equipment and apparatus is to be in compliance with Workers’
Compensation Board regulations.

Fire department members must operate equipment with due regard for the safety of themselves
and others.

Fire department members are to maintain clothing, equipment and apparatus in clean, good
operating condition according to the OGs and manufacturer’s operating manuals.

Fire department members to perform safety checks on clothing, equipment and apparatus at
regular intervals, as recommended by the manufacturer, to ensure prompt action is undertaken to
correct any unsafe conditions found and Fire Department members must report any unsafe
conditions, promptly tag and remove the item from service.
Reporting

Fire department members are to report all job related accidents, injuries, illnesses to their
respective Fire Chief.

Each Fire Chief is to record the incident in the appropriate record book and ensure all incident
investigation forms are completed in compliance with Workers’ Compensation Board Regulations.

Each Fire Chief is to report the incident to the Fire Services Coordinator of the Columbia
Shuswap Regional District.
(cont)
Page 117 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Fire Hall

All Fire Department members must maintain their respective Fire Halls, exercising good
housekeeping practices on a regular basis.
Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in all government related buildings in compliance with Workers’
Compensation Board Regulations.

Smoking will be restricted during all training sessions.
Page 118 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Part 3 Training Fire Department Members

Fire department members will be trained to proficiency in the performance of their duties including
educational programs to promote safe workplace practices. A training record is to be kept for
each Fire Department member, including date, subject and certifications achieved.

The CSRD and its Fire Departments will utilize NFPA standards as guidelines when developing
training programs in accordance with the Minister’s Order on Training made under s. 3(3)(b) of
the Fire Services Act (BC).

Training programs will meet all Workers’ Compensation Board Regulations and Standards as set
out in the OGs.

Training provided will be proportional with the duties Fire Department members are expected to
perform.

Fire department members are required to drive or operate department apparatus must have the
Driver’s License class and endorsement that is required as per the BC Motor Vehicle Act.

All Fire Department members are to be trained in the Incident Command System as specified in
OG 2.0.

Fire ground operations training will be based on the procedures and programs developed by the
CSRD and its Fire Departments.

Live Fire training will comply with the guidelines set out in the NFPA 1403 “Standard on Live Fire
Training Evolutions in Structures”.
Page 119 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Part 4 Inspections and Monitoring

Fire department facilities will comply with all applicable Health, Safety, Building and Fire Code
requirements.

Fire department facilities will be designed and constructed so as to minimize possible negative
impact on Fire Department members with respect to health and safety standards.

Fire department facilities are to be inspected by the OH&S Committee during the course of its
regular meetings.

Fire department members are individually responsible to identify any hazard to the Fire Chief or
Safety Officer as well as reporting and recording such deficiencies to the OH&S Committee.
Should the reported issue not be rectified in a timely manner it should be escalated to the CSRD
Manager of Operations.

Health and safety are to be considered as primary concerns in the specification, design,
construction, acquisition, operation, maintenance, inspection and repair of all apparatus and
equipment. Fire department apparatus will be operated in full compliance with the provisions of
the BC Motor Vehicle Act and the OGs.

When purchasing new apparatus and equipment, hearing conservation objectives will be
considered to reduce the effect of noise where possible.

New fire apparatus will be specified and ordered in accordance with current Workers’
Compensation Board Regulations. Apparatus will meet either NFPA or ULC standards.

When Fire Department members respond to an incident or to the Fire Hall in their personal
vehicle they will be governed by all applicable traffic laws and the B.C Motor Vehicle Act.

Fire department apparatus are to be inspected at regular intervals as recommended by the
manufacturer and as set out in the OGs. Records of each inspection are to be recorded in the
RMS.

Fire pumps on apparatus must be tested annually and the results recorded and kept on file at the
relevant Fire Department and in the RMS.

All Fire Department Self Contained Breathing Apparatus is to be fitted, tested, serviced and
maintained in accordance with OGs based on manufacturer’s specifications, Workers’
Compensation Board regulations (including Part 8, sections 8.32 – 8.45, and Part 31, section
31.19 – 31.26) and the most recent edition of the ‘IFSTA Essentials of Firefighting’.
(cont)
Page 120 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES

Ground ladders shall meet the requirements of NFPA 1931 ‘Design of and Design Verification
Tests for Fire Department Ground Ladders’ as required by section 31.37(1) of the WCA
Regulations.

Ground ladders are to be tested at least every two years in accordance with the provisions of
NFPA 1932 ‘Standard on Use, Maintenance and Service Testing of Fire Department Ground
Ladders’. Test results are to be recorded in the RMS and kept on file at the relevant Fire
Department.

Hose to be tested annually in accordance with the provisions of the NFPA 1962 ‘Standard on
Care and Use of Fire Hose’. Test results are to be recorded in the RMS and kept on file at the
relevant Fire Department.

Fire extinguishers to be inspected and serviced in accordance with the provisions of the NFPA 10
‘Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers’. Test results are to be recorded and kept on file at the
relevant Fire Department.
Page 121 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Part 5 Hazardous Materials and Substances
Each Fire Department will establish a Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)
to identify and maintain an inventory of hazardous materials and substances, including measures
required to eliminate or effectively control dangers related to their transportation, storage, handling,
use and disposal.
Each Fire Department Safety Officer will:

be responsible for the implementation and maintenance of the WHMIS program and ensuring it
conforms to all applicable Workers’ Compensation Regulations,

establish an inventory of controlled products,

ensure WHMIS labeling and Safety Data Sheets are in place,

determine hazards of controlled products in his or her respective Fire Hall(s),

establish Fire Hall controls,

provide WHMIS training to Fire Department members, and

in consultation with the OH&S Committee, review and upgrade the WHMIS program.
Fire department members are to report any exposure to suspected toxic products or contagious
diseases to the Officer-in-Charge or the Fire Department Safety Officer.
Page 122 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Part 6 Monitoring Fire Department Exposure

Fire Hall and environment to be monitored to prevent exposure to harmful substances by Fire
Department members.

Each Safety Officer in consultation with OH&S Committee will identify any Fire Department work
areas requiring specific monitoring (e.g.: air sampling).

The Incident Commander at any major incident may appoint an Incident Safety Officer
responsible for monitoring operational safety at the site. (See OG 1.3.1)

All Fire Department members are responsible for continuous monitoring of the Fire Hall and
reporting hazards to the Fire Chief, Safety Officer, or one of the members of the Fire Services
OH&S Committee.
Page 123 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Part 7 Medical and Health Monitoring

Each Fire Department is to provide ‘Critical Incident Stress’ counseling for Fire Department
members in accordance with the OGs.

Following long term injury or illness, the Fire Department member must be examined by a
physician and certified as being medically, physically and psychologically fit for firefighting duties
and the results provided to the relevant Fire Chief. A Fire Department member on Workers’
Compensation must also provide written medical confirmation of his or her ability to return to the
Fire Department, and to what capacity, prior to doing so.
Page 124 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Part 8 First Aid

Each Fire Chief, in consultation with the OH&S Committee, is responsible to ensure first aid
equipment is provided and maintained, and an appropriate number of trained First Aid Attendants
are available, in compliance with Part 3, sections 3.14 – 3.21 and Schedule 3-A, of the WCA
Regulations.

Injured Fire Department members are required to report the injury, or to have the injury reported
immediately to a trained First Aid Attendant, the Officer-in-Charge, the Safety Officer, or the Fire
Chief.

The Officer-in-Charge is responsible to ensure that all forms/reports and treatment record book
are completed in accordance with Workers’ Compensation Board Regulations and Part 11 of
Appendix A.
Page 125 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Part 9 Accident or Disease Investigation and Records

Accidents and industrial diseases shall be investigated in accordance with the requirements of
section 173 of the WCA, which requires that an accident or incident must be investigated where:
1. it is required to be reported to WorkSafe BC under s. 172 of the WCA;
2. it resulted in an injury to a Fire Department member requiring medical treatment;
3. it did not involve injury to a Fire Department member, or involved only minor injury
not requiring medical treatment, but had a potential for causing serious injury to a
Fire Department member; or
4. it was an incident required by regulation to be investigated.

All accidents and occupational diseases must be investigated to:
1. determine the cause(s),
2. identify unsafe conditions, acts or procedures that contributed in any manner to the
incident, and
3. develop and implement corrective action to prevent a similar occurrence.

Such investigations are to be conducted by a minimum of two persons, at least one of whom shall
be a member of the OH&S Committee. At least one person involved in the investigation shall be
a worker representative.

Each Officer in Charge is responsible to ensure recording and reporting of any injury or industrial
disease reported to him or her.

A Safety Officer shall complete an accident Investigation Report to be filed with the relevant Fire
Chief and with the Columbia Shuswap Regional District. The Columbia Shuswap Regional
District shall provide a copy of the report to WorkSafe BC. The report and any related prevention
information is to be provided to the OH&S Committee. This report is to include (in compliance
with the Workers’ Compensation Act):
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
place, date and time,
names and titles of injured parties,
names of witnesses,
brief description of incident,
statement of sequence of events preceding the incident,
identification of unsafe conditions, acts or procedures contributing in any manner to
incident,
7. recommended corrective actions to prevent similar incidents, and
8. names of investigating parties.

Each Fire Chief is to ensure that recommendations for corrective action found as a result of the
investigation are implemented in a timely manner and to report on same to the OH&S Committee.
(cont)
Page 126 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES

An Officer-in-Charge must ensure that equipment suspected in an accident is secured and taken
out of service (if required), then to report such action to the Fire Chief.

Where there has been an accident that resulted in serious injury or death to a Fire Department
member, except as otherwise directed by an officer of WorkSafe BC or by a peace officer, the
Officer-in-Charge, Incident Safety Officer or Fire Chief, as appropriate, shall take steps to ensure
that the scene of the accident is not disturbed, except as necessary to:
1. attend to persons injured or killed,
2. prevent further injuries or death, or
3. protect property that is endangered as a result of the accident.

In the case of an accident resulting in serious injury or death to a Fire Department member, the
Fire Services Coordinator must be notified immediately and forwarded copies of all
documentation. The Workers’ Compensation Board is to be notified by the Regional District (in
accordance with Part 11 of Appendix A).

Each Fire Department must record all job related accidents, injuries, illnesses or deaths on the
FDM RMS. Such records are to contain a description of the nature, frequency and severity of any
incident as well as any suspected exposure to toxic products or contagious diseases.
Page 127 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Part 10 Occupational Health and Safety Committee

The CSRD has established a joint OH&S Committee as required by the Workers’ Compensation
Act.

The OH&S Committee is to include two members of the Fire Department Officers group, three
Fire Fighters, and the Fire Services Coordinator. The three firefighter representatives are to be
elected by the membership of the thirteen Fire Departments.

The OH&S Committee is to function in accordance with the OH&S program and the Workers’
Compensation Act and the WCA Regulations.

Each of the Fire Department Chiefs and Officers is to take action on all items recommended by
the OH&S Committee.
Purpose and Function of the Committee
The OH&S Committee shall have all of the functions and obligations as set out in section 130 of the
Workers’ Compensation Act (BC). Without limiting that obligation, the OH&S Committee shall have the
following responsibilities:

To work in a cooperative spirit to identify and resolve safety and health challenges in support of a
planned occupational health and safety program.

To meet regularly, and for special meetings at the request of the chairperson. Agendas are to be
prepared by the secretary of the OH&S Committee at the direction of the co-chairs and distributed
to OH&S Committee members prior to the meeting. Minutes are to be prepared and as soon as
possible after the meeting. The minutes shall be made available to Fire Department members,
the OH&S Committee members, and the CSRD corporate OH&S Committee. They shall retained
on file by the Columbia Shuswap Regional District and made available to the Workers’
Compensation Board if required. Minutes must be retained for not less than two years.

A quorum for meetings shall consist of a majority of Fire Department members (providing at least
half are fire fighter representatives). OH&S Committee members may participate in meeting by
telephone or other electronic means that permits simultaneous communication.

To ensure that meeting minutes are posted in each Fire Hall. Minutes for at least the three
previous meetings shall be posted.

To make recommendations for the establishment and enforcement of health and safety policies
and practices.

To participate in the identification of existing or potential dangers to the health and safety of Fire
Department members or the Fire Halls and recommend means of controlling the dangers.
(cont)
Page 128 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES

To serve in an advisory capacity to the Fire Chiefs on items pertaining to OH&S.

To promote health, safety and educational programs for Fire Department members.

To receive, consider, investigate where necessary, maintain a record of, and record the resolution
of complaints received, making recommendations to the Fire Chiefs and Fire Services
Coordinator when necessary.

Where applicable, review the information resulting from monitoring and measuring procedures
and make recommendations to Fire Chiefs and Fire Services Coordinator.
Page 129 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Part 11 Records and Statistics
Accident or Injury Records
A reportable injury is an injury occurring while on duty (which includes training, working at the fire hall, or
responding to an incident) and in respect of which any one of the following conditions is present or
subsequently occurs.1 The Fire Department member:
a) loses consciousness following the injury, or
b) is transported or directed by a first aid attendant or other representative of the Fire Department to
go to a hospital or other place of medical treatment, or
c) sustains an injury that obviously requires medical treatment, or
d) states that he/she intends to seek medical treatment, or
e) has received medical treatment for the injury, or
f) is unable or claims that he/she is unable by reason of the injury, to return to his/her usual job
function on any working day subsequent to the day of injury, or
g) has sustained or claims to have sustained an injury or accident which results in the breakage of
an artificial member, eyeglasses, dentures or a hearing aid, or
h) has requested, or the Workers’ Compensation Board has requested, an employer’s report be sent
to the Board.
Where none of the conditions listed above is present, an injury is defined as a minor injury and is not
required to be reported to the Workers’ Compensation Board unless one of those conditions subsequently
occurs.
The Officer in Charge, Safety Officer or Fire Chief (as may be relevant) is obligated to report, when he or
she first becomes aware of any injuries as described above, to the Regional District so the Regional
District may meet its requirement to report to the Workers’ Compensation Board.
Workers’ Compensation Board reporting requirements are as follows:
Fire Hall:




Fire Department members are to complete Form 6A in case of a time loss or compensable injury
Fire Department members are to complete a ‘Safety Hazard/Accident Report’ form for minor
injuries or exposures requiring recording only (no WCB involvement at the time)
the relevant Fire Department Safety Officer initiates an accident investigation and completes an
investigation form
if first aid is rendered, the first aid attendant providing treatment must complete a Form 7A.
Fire Chief:

maintains a master log of all accidents or exposures recorded on ‘Safety Hazard/Accident Report’
forms
(cont)
1
For reference purposes, consult: Reports of Injuries Regulations, BC Reg 713/74, made under the
WCA.
Page 130 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Regional District:


maintains a master log of all accidents or exposures sent in on a Form 6A and 7A
completes the Form 7 and forwards to the Workers’ Compensation Board
Training Records
Training records are to be kept for each Fire Department member, including date, subject and
certifications achieved on the FDM RMS.
Equipment Records
Each Fire Department is to post inspection, maintenance, repair and service records for all apparatus and
equipment used for emergency operations on the FDM RMS.
Page 131 of 139
APPENDIX A Occupational Health and Safety Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Part 12 Review of the Occupational Health and Safety Program
A copy of the Occupational Health and Safety Program must be posted in all Fire Halls so that Fire
Department members can become familiar with it.
The Occupational Health and Safety Program must be reviewed annually by the OH&S Committee. The
review is intended to identify the extent and effectiveness of existing Health and Safety activities and to
ensure that the existing policy is up to date and conforms with all WorkSafe BC requirements.
Page 132 of 139
APPENDIX B Respiratory Program
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
The Respiratory Program defines safe work practices for Fire Department members using Self Contained
Breathing Apparatus (S.C.B.A.) when required to work in a hazardous or potentially hazardous
atmosphere.2 When using S.C.B.A., Fire Department members’ responsibilities include, but are not
limited to:






knowing the limitations of the respiratory equipment provided by the Fire Department,
following the procedures set out in the Fire Department’s instruction and training program
provided for the use of the equipment,
mask fit testing on an annual basis, (record fit testing on the FDM RMS)
ensuring that the PASS device is turned on when using S.C.B.A.,
maintaining the equipment and preventing damage to the equipment,
tagging and removing defective equipment from service, and reporting the defect to the fire chief.
Classifications of hazards requiring the use of respiratory protection (normally S.C.B.A.) include, but are
not limited to:





all working fires, including the investigation of the cause of a fire,
all hazardous material incidents,
all oxygen deficient atmospheres,
all confined space entries, and
other occasions as determined by the Incident Commander.
Atmospheres where respiratory protective equipment has been required will remain classified as
hazardous until declared by the Incident Commander to be within safe limits.
The following training will be provided to all Fire Department members:





instruction in the nature, extent and effects of respiratory hazards,
instruction in the operation, limitations and capabilities of S.C.B.A.,
instruction and practice in procedures for S.C.B.A. pre-use inspections, donning and removal of
S.C.B.A., and checking of fit and seal of mask,
instruction and practice in procedures for inspection, cleaning, maintenance and storage of
S.C.B.A., and
instruction and practice in emergency use of S.C.B.A.
All respiratory protection equipment must be inspected and maintained in accordance with manufacturers’
recommendations and with the SOG’s. This will include, but is not limited to:



regular inspections of the equipment and repairs as required,
testing of compressed gas cylinders hydrostatically within specified times,
conduct air sample analysis within specified times.
2
For reference purposes, consult: the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (BC Reg 296/97)
sections 8.32 – 8.45 and section 31.19 – 31.26.
Page 133 of 139
APPENDIX C Fire Intensity Rank System
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Fire Rank
The Fire Intensity Rank System enables firefighters to communicate a summarized assessment of fire
behaviour.
Rank 1
Smouldering ground or creeping surface fire.
This is a smouldering ground fire or a fire that burns in
the ground fuel layer. These fires have no open flame
and produce white smoke.
Firebrands and going fires tend to be virtually selfextinguishing unless high DC and/or BUI values
prevail, in which case extensive mop-up is generally
required.
Rank 2
Low vigour surface fire.
Rate of spread: less than 1.5m/min.
This is a surface fire or a fire that burns in the
surface fuel layer, excluding the crowns of trees.
These fires produce visible open flame; have little or
no spread, which is the speed at which the fire
extends; and have an unorganized flame front or a
flame front that does not exhibit all the same
characteristics.
Direct manual attack at fire's head or flanks by fire
fighters with hand tools and water possible.
Constructed fire guard should hold.
(cont)
Page 134 of 139
APPENDIX C Fire Intensity Rank System
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Rank 3
Moderately vigorous surface fire.
Rate of spread: 1.5 - 3.0 m/min.
This is a vigorous surface fire with a moderate rate of
spread. They have an organized front and may display
"candling", which is when a tree's fuels ignite and flare
up, along the perimeter and/or within the fire.
Hand-constructed fire guards likely to be challenged.
Heavy equipment (bulldozers, pumpers, retardant
aircraft, skimmers, helicopter w/bucket) generally
successful in controlling fire.
Rank 4
Highly vigorous surface fire, torching (or passive
crown fire).
Rate of spread: 3.0 - 6.0 m/min.
This type of fire produces grey to black smoke, has
an organized surface flame front, and has a
moderate to fast rate of spread along the ground.
Short aerial bursts and short range spotting will
occur with these fires.
Control efforts at fire's head may fail.
(cont)
Page 135 of 139
APPENDIX C Fire Intensity Rank System
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Rank 5
Extremely vigourous surface fire or active crown fire.
Rate of spread: 6.0 - 18.0 m/min.)
This type of fire produces black to copper smoke, has
an organized crown fire front, moderate to long-range
spotting and independent spot fire growth.
Very difficult to control. Suppression action must be
restricted to fire's flanks. Indirect attack with aerial
ignition (i.e., helitorch and/or aid dispenser) may be
effective.
Rank 6
Blow-up or conflagration, extreme fire behaviour.
Rate of spread in excess of 18.0 m/min.
Violent fire behaviour occurs with this type of fire.
An organized crown fire front, moderate to longrange spotting and independent spot fire growth are
characteristic of this fire type. There may be the
presence of fireballs and whirls.
Violent physical behaviour probable. Suppression
actions should not be attempted until burning
conditions ameliorate.
Page 136 of 139
APPENDIX D Policy F12 CSRD Firefighter/Officer Remuneration
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Purpose
To provide clarification regarding the standardized honoraria and paid per call remuneration
administered across CSRD Fire departments based on recommendations in the Board
approved Fire Services Review: Proficiency Criteria and Honoraria report from Dave Mitchell
and Associates Sept 2011.
Scope
This Policy applies to all CSRD Firefighters and Officers.
Policy
Honorariums
Honorariums are paid to officer positions within fire departments to acknowledge administrative
work that is conducted on behalf of these positions throughout the year. Honorariums are
dispersed based on a formula of a base rate plus an additional rate based on call volume to
ensure equitable remuneration across fire departments. Additional rates are associated with the
number of dispatched incident call-outs (excluding false alarms). Officers are eligible to be paid
the additional rate once per incident regardless of attendance at the incident. Officers receiving
multiple call-outs to the same incident are not eligible for further payments of the additional rate.
Minimum annual honorarium rates will be allocated to four officer positions at the Shuswap Fire
Department to acknowledge the increase in responsibility associated with the operation of two
fire halls and the increased membership.
The following Honorarium rates are administered to Officers:
Position
Fire Chief
Deputy Chief/Assistant Chief
Training Officer
Captain
Lieutenant
Safety Officer
Base Rate
$2,500+
$1,800+
$1,500
$1,000
$ 600
$ 600
Additional Rate
$75 per call-out
$40 per call-out
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
The following Honorarium rates are administered to the listed Officers at the Shuswap Fire
Department:
Position
Fire Chief
Deputy Chief/Assistant Chief
Training Officer
Senior Captain
Minimum Annual Honorarium
$7200
$5400
$4200
$4200
Page 137 of 139
APPENDIX D Policy F12 CSRD Firefighter/Officer Remuneration
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
The following Honorarium rates are administered to the listed Officers at the Shuswap Fire
Department:
Position
Fire Chief
Deputy Chief/Assistant Chief
Training Officer
Senior Captain
Minimum Annual Honorarium
$7200
$5400
$4200
$4200
Hourly Rates
Hourly rates are paid to officer and firefighters within fire departments for time spent on training,
practice, maintenance and callouts. Beginning in 2012, a three year transitional period of
hourly rate remuneration will commence. In 2012, firefighters and officers will receive $12.00
per hour, 2013 - $15.00 per hour and in 2014 - $18.00 per hour. Any firefighter or officer
receiving more than $12 per hour will remain at their current rate until the transitional amounts
reach or exceed current remuneration. Only those firefighters and officers that have achieved
the BC Basic Firefighting Certificate will ultimately obtain $18 per hour otherwise the hourly rate
would remain at $15 per hour beginning in 2013.
Practices
Remuneration for weekly practices will be based on a two hour session. Those firefighters and
officers attending the full practice session will receive two hours compensation for weekly
practices.
Training
All training activities must be pre-approved by the CSRD Fire Services Coordinator or designate
prior to the training session occurring. Firefighters and officers will receive compensation for
training activities for time spent, excluding travel time; the hourly rate will be associated with
actual training time. Hourly rates will not apply to travel to and from training or attendance at
conferences and trade shows (i.e. BC Fire Expo). Firefighters and Officers will receive
compensation for travel related to training based on kilometres to and from their respective fire
hall and the location of the training consistent with CSRD Policy No. F-7.
Maintenance
Maintenance duty calls is the inspection and verification that all firefighting equipment and all
apparatus is operational and includes the flagging for repair and/or performing minor repairs on
equipment. Duty Calls must be conducted at minimum once per month. Additional
maintenance activities may be required based on increased incident call outs; preapproval is
required from the CSRD Fire Services Coordinator or designate for all additional maintenance
activities. A maximum of 6 hours will be paid per duty call apportioned to the participating
members
Page 138 of 139
APPENDIX D Policy F12 CSRD Firefighter/Officer Remuneration
COLUMBIA SHUSWAP REGIONAL DISTRICT FIRE SERVICES
Call-outs
Firefighters and officers will be compensated with the applicable hourly rate for all hours spent
during incident call-outs. Remuneration begins at the time the firefighter responds to the page
and ends when all apparatus is back in the fire hall and in service. Incident calls will be
compensated at a two hour minimum and false alarm calls will be compensated at a one hour
minimum. Incident Command will be paid the applicable hourly rate for activities associated with
documenting the fire call.
Frequency of Payment
Officers and firefighters will be paid annually on a calendar cycle from November to October no
later than December 15, subject to receipt of information from the fire departments. Cheques
will be processed within two weeks from the time the approved payment schedule is received by
the CSRD Finance Department.
Officers will receive quarterly advance payments of Honorariums and Hourly Rates based on
the following table:
1st Quarter
(Nov – Jan)
2nd Quarter
(Feb – Apr)
3rd Quarter
(May – Jul)
4th Quarter
(Aug – Oct)
Annual Rate
25% of Annual
25% of Annual
25% of Annual Final payment adjusted
(Base and
Rate
Rate
Rate
for statutory
Additional
deductions and
Rate)
quarterly
Beginning
in 2015, annual adjustments will be made to the hourly and honorarium rates
basedadvances
on the
British Columbia Consumer Price Index (All Items).
Hourly Rate
August 2012
August 2013
75% of Hourly
Rate
75% of Hourly
Rate
75% of Hourly
Rate
Final payment adjusted
for statutory
deductions and
quarterly advances
*quarterly payments will be rounded to the nearest $10
Beginning in 2015, annual adjustments will be made to the hourly and honorarium rates based
on the British Columbia Consumer Price Index (all items).
August 2012
August 2013
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