Altoona FD SOPs

ALTOONA
FIRE DEPARTMENT
STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES

TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS
UPDATED: 1-14-12

INTRODUCTION
1-1 Acknowledgement of Authority
1-2 Purpose & Scope
1-3 Organizational Statement
1-4 Chain of Command
1-5 General Orders
1-6 Use of Tobacco Products
1-7 Facial Hair & Personal Hygiene
1-8 Harassment & Discrimination
1-9 Information Releases 1-9 Information Releases
1-10 Photography & Electronic Imaging

EMPLOYMENT
2-1 Hiring Process
2-2 Conduct
2-3 Employee Discipline
2-4 Alcohol/Controlled Substances
2-5 Employee Requirements
2-6 Performance Evaluations
2-7 Orientation
2-8 Light/Restricted Duty 2-8 Light/Restricted Duty
2-9 Blood Bourn Pathogen Exposure Control
2-10 Significant Exposure Reporting
2-11 Position Descriptions
2-12 Uniforms
2-13 Firefighter Line of Duty Death
2-14 Respiratory Protection Program & Facial Hair

VEHICLES & EQUIPMENT
3-1 Personal Protective Equipment
3-2 Equipment Issued
3-3 Vehicle Maintenance
3-4 Vehicle Operations & Response
3-5 Vehicle Parking on Roadways
3-6 Riding Assignments
3-7

EMERGENCY RESPONSE EMERGENCY RESPONSE
4-1 Standing Orders for Response
4-2 Alarm Types
4-3 MABAS/Mutual Aid
4-4 Radios
4-5 Hazardous Materials
4-6 Water Rescue & Recovery
4-7 Carbon Monoxide Alarms
4-8 Emergency Evacuation
4-9
4-10 Personnel Accountability
4-11 Violent/Suspicious Calls
4-12 Lock Box Keys 4-12 Lock Box Keys
4-13 Thermal Imaging Camera
4-14 Bomb Threats
4-15 Natural Disasters
4-16 Airport Emergencies
4-17 Rapid Intervention Team

EXPLORER POST
5-1 Operations of Explorers

APPENDIX APPENDIX
A Employee Evaluation Form
B Light Duty Forms
C Significant Exposure Report
D Uniform Diagrams
E Frequency List
F Carbon Monoxide Checklist
G Airport Gate List
H Airport Maps
UPDATES ISSUED

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ALTOONA FIRE DEPARTMENT

EFFECTIVE DATE LAST REVISION PAGES
12-12-06 9-26-11 1 of 1
SOG# SECTION GUIDELINE
1-1 INTRODUCTION ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF AUTHORITY

Acknowledgement of Authority

The standards and policies herein take effect on the
dates posted above each guideline and will remain in
effect until amended, suspended, or cancelled by the
issuing authority. These standards and policies are to issuing authority. These standards and policies are to
become a permanent part of the City of Altoona Fire
Department Standard Operating Guidelines.

Authorization: __________J a m e s A . S m a l l_______________
James A. Small, Fire Chief

1-1-94 10-15-11 1 of 1
1-2 INTRODUCTION PURPOSE & SCOPE

PURPOSE
These Standard Operating Guidelines (SOG's) are a set of organizational guidelines that establish a These Standard Operating Guidelines (SOG's) are a set of organizational guidelines that establish a
standard of practice and a suggested course of action for emergency response and rescue services as well
as creating responsibilities during non-emergency duties, to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of
the fire department.

All items covered herein are to be considered guidelines that are to be followed at all times. The City of
Altoona Fire Department Standard Operating Guidelines are not designed, nor intended, to limit any
employee in the exercise of his/her judgment or initiative in taking the action a reasonable person would
take in extraordinary situations based on facts and experiences. Under certain rare, exigent
circumstances, it may be necessary to supersede these guidelines and if so, that person must be prepared
to explain and accept responsibility for their actions. However, a blanket or intentional suspension,
countermanding, or reckless disregard of a procedure is unacceptable. Violations of these guidelines
could result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.

These operating guidelines shall not supersede any federal, state, or local law/statute. These operating guidelines shall not supersede any federal, state, or local law/statute.

References include, but are not limited to: National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards,
Wisconsin Statutes, OSHA Regulations, and the City of Altoona Personnel Manual.

SCOPE
These Standard Operating Guidelines apply to all employees of the City of Altoona Fire Department.

All policy statements issued by the Fire Chief are considered amendments to the Standard Operating
Guidelines and as such, hold the same authority and scope. Active policy statements may supersede the
most current revision of the Standard Operating Guidelines. If no revised Standard Operating Guidelines
approved.

Definitions
For the purpose of this guideline, the term shall be defined as the City of Altoona.
The term shall be defined as the City of Altoona, Wisconsin Fire Department.


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1-3 INTRODUCTION ORGANIZATIONAL STATEMENT

PURPOSE PURPOSE
The purpose of the City of Altoona Fire Department shall be to protect lives and property from injurious
effect from fire, hazardous materials, medical emergencies, and acts of nature for the residents of the
City of Altoona, Wisconsin and all incidents while providing mutual aid within the mutual aid
agreements in effect with the surround fire and EMS departments. This statement shall be in effect at
- e City of Altoona, WI.

The following Organizational Statement has been written especially for the City of Altoona Fire
Department in Altoona, Wisconsin. This statement has been designed to be in compliance with NFPA
1500 for an Organizational Statement and to promote the safety and welfare of Department
employees.

City of Altoona Fire Department City of Altoona Fire Department
Organization Statement

AUTHORITY
Action of the City Council in 1887 resulted in the official creation of the Altoona Fire Department to
provide fire protection to the citizens and to enforce established fire codes. The Department is organized
under chapter 2.28.010 of the City of Altoona Municipal Code and operates under Wisconsin Statute
62.13.

MISSION STATEMENT
is to serve the community and surrounding areas by providing
timely, competent, and professional care to the people we serve.

RISK MANAGEMENT STATEMENT
We will begin our response on the assumption that we can protect lives and property.
We will risk ourselves a lot, if necessary, to protect a savable life.
We will risk ourselves a little, within a structured plan, to protect a savable property.
We will not risk ourselves at all to save lives or property that is already lost.

SERVICES PROVIDED
The Altoona Fire Department personnel are charged with the duties of protecting life and property by
the fighting and prevention of fires, emergency medical treatment, and other hazardous tasks. Services
provided by the Department include:

Fire Suppression The Department responds to all fires and incidents involving explosions.

Emergency Medical Services The Department shall assist the Emergency Medical Rescue
Squad, when requested, to provide basic life support skills, including CPR.

Vehicle/Special Extrication The Department is trained and equipped to free victims trapped in
vehicles at the scene of a motor vehicle crash, people trapped or entangled as a result of an
industrial, construction, or other accident.

Hazardous Materials Incident response The Department responds to all levels of hazardous
materials incidents in a coordinated effort with the Eau Claire County and Regional Hazardous
Response Teams. This would include hazardous atmosphere monitoring such as carbon
monoxide or suspicious odors such as smell of gas incidents.

Water & Ice Rescue The Department is trained and equipped to respond to emergencies on the
waters and ice of the rivers, lakes and ponds within the City of Altoona and through mutual aid
contracts with other fire and EMS agencies.

Confined Space Rescue The Department shall respond to persons trapped or injured in confined
spaces to assess and stabilize the situation to prevent further danger or injury to the public. The spaces to assess and stabilize the situation to prevent further danger or injury to the public. The
Altoona Fire Department is not trained nor properly equipped to attempt a rescue. These types of
rescues shall be handled by higher trained and equipped personnel under a mutual aid agreement.
The Altoona Fire Department shall operate in a support capacity in this situation.

Trench/Structure Collapse & Rescue - The Department shall respond to persons trapped due to
collapsed earth in trenches or in structures to assess and stabilize the situation to prevent further
danger or injury to the public. The Altoona Fire Department is not trained nor properly equipped
to attempt a rescue. These types of rescues shall be handled by higher trained and equipped
personnel under a mutual aid agreement. The Altoona Fire Department shall operate in a support
capacity in this situation.

Fire Prevention & Education The Department provides inspections of public buildings and
places of employment under the authority of Wisconsin Statute 101.14 and Wisconsin
Administrative Code Comm. 14 and performs any other fire prevention or life safety education Administrative Code Comm. 14 and performs any other fire prevention or life safety education
as requested by the community.

Service Calls The Department shall respond to a variety of non-emergency calls for assistance
in the community. These incidents include, but are not limited to, animal rescue or removal,
lockouts, handicapped person assists, or any other problem that could be considered a safety
hazard to the general public.

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

The Altoona Fire Department is limited to a maximum of forty-five (45) employees per decision by the
City Common Council. The partment by the State of
Wisconsin meaning it is a combination of full-time and part- only full-time
employee is the Fire Chief. The rest of the staff is part- -on-
paid only while on duty. The Altoona Fire Department operates under an organizational structure, or
, with the Fire Chief being the highest ranking officer of the Department. Each
position of the Department is described below:

Fire Chief Highest ranking officer in the Department and takes direction from the Mayor and Common Fire Chief Highest ranking officer in the Department and takes direction from the Mayor and Common
Council. The Fire Chief administers all City and Department policies and procedures, prepares and
administers the fire department budget. The Fire Chief also evaluates the needs of the Department and
plans for the acquisition, replacement and maintenance of facilities, apparatus and equipment. The Fire
Chief attends meetings of the City Council, Police and Fire Commission, responds to emergencies
within the City as outlined within the Dep
Department in the Emergency Operations Center in the event of a major emergency.

Assistant Fire Chief (1) The Assistant Fire Chief is the second highest ranking officer in the
Department and takes direction from the Fire Chief. The Assistant Chief assists the Chief in
The Assistant Chief
manages the day-to-day operations of the Department, may be acting Fire Chief in the absence of the
Chief and responds to emergencies within the City for incident supervision and/or command.

Captain (2) The rank of Captain is the third highest ranking officer in the Department and takes
direction from the Assistant Fire Chief. Each Captain manages two Lieutenants and a squad of direction from the Assistant Fire Chief. Each Captain manages two Lieutenants and a squad of
firefighters for administrative issues and incident management. Both Captains share the responsibility
d
Administration. Captains respond to emergencies within the City as a company officer and would
assigned to an incident command supervisory role.

Lieutenant (4) The rank of Lieutenant is the fourth highest ranking officer of the Department and takes
direction from the Captains. Each Lieutenant assists his/her assigned Captain in managing a squad of
firefighters and is assigned a specific responsibility such as training, maintenance, orientation, or other
duties as assigned.

Firefighter Firefighters take direction from his/her company officer, either a Captain or Lieutenant,
depending upon the assignment. All firefighters are certified to the Firefighter I level by the State of
Wisconsin.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Some firefighters are trained to the EMT-basic level and may
provide emergency medical basic life support as designated by the State of Wisconsin. An EMT-Basic
may be of any rank of the Fire Department.

7-1-95 10-15-11 1 of 1
1-4 INTRODUCTION CHAIN OF COMMAND

CHAIN OF COMMAND

FIRE CHIEF
ASSISTANT
FIRE CHIEF
CAPTAIN
Training
CAPTAIN
Operations
LIEUTENANT
Training
LIEUTENANT
Orientation
LIEUTENANT
Training
LIEUTENANT
Maintenance

The Assistant Fire Chief is responsible for assisting the Fire Chief in planning, organizing & directing
all operations, activities, and administration of the Department.

Both Captains share all training responsibilities of the Department as co-training officers. The Captain
of Training is responsible for all duties dealing with personnel such as all mentoring, orientation, and
administrative responsibilities under the direction of the Assistant Fire Chief. The Captain of Operations
is responsible for duties dealing with Department operations such as equipment, maintenance, and
procedures under the direction of the Assistant Fire Chief.
Training Orientation Training Maintenance
SQUAD A
FIREFIGHTERS
SQUAD B
FIREFIGHTERS
EXPLORERS
procedures under the direction of the Assistant Fire Chief.

Each Captain is in charge of a squad of firefighters and has two Lieutenants per squad to assist in
delegation and coordination by taking one duty as their own individual assignment. Roles and
responsibilities can be changed at the discretion of the Fire Chief and/or Assistant Fire Chief based on
individual training and experience to best fit into the command structure.

This Chain of Command shall be usedat all times for all activities, duties, operations, and administrative items of the
Department. Firefighters report to a Lieutenant, Lieutenants report to a Captain, the Captains report to the Assistant Fire
Chief, who reports to the Fire Chief. Personnel must report to their direct supervisor first and not circumvent the Chain of
Command. This could result in disciplinary action.

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1-5 INTRODUCTION GENERAL ORDERS

The following GENERAL ORDERS are in effect at all times:

The Fire Department Chain of Command prescribed herein shall be used and followed at all
times. times.

All calls for service of the Altoona Fire Department will be handled by the operations prescribed
herein, in a timely manner. All personnel shall display the highest level of professionalism with
firefighter safety and public safety in mind at all times.

All calls for service shall be considered an emergency and personnel shall respond as such unless
otherwise notified or determined by a reliable source.

For every incident, the Altoona Fire Department shall implement and follow the National
Incident Management System (NIMS) as required by NFPA 1561. The first arriving unit,
firefighter, crew chief, or officer at any incident shall initiate NIMS and assume Incident
Command and remain in command until he/she transfers Command to a more senior firefighter,
crew chief, or officer. The Incident Commander may do this at anytime at his/her discretion.

All vehicles and equipment must be maintained to be considered in service and ready to respond
at all times. In the event that equipment is deemed to be out of service, an officer must be
notified. That equipment shall be serviced or replaced so it can be placed back into service as
soon as possible.

All vehicles, equipment, property, personnel, and facilities shall be kept secure and accounted for
at all times. Department vehicles and equipment must be secure and guarded from theft,
vandalism, tampering, or other security issues at all times.

The security and integrity of the station must be constantly maintained. Only authorized
personnel are to have the code to enter. Non-Department personnel are not allowed in the station
without an escort for security reasons.

Post Incident Stress Debriefing Post Incident Stress Debriefing
Sometimes employees deal with traumatic and stressful situations that could affect an individual in
many ways both mentally and physically. Any employee can contact the Fire Chief or any fire officer to
request a debriefing or utilize any form of employee assistance program for any call they feel necessary
at any time without cost or prejudice. Employees are encouraged to take advantage of this free and
confidential service provided for all personnel whenever they feel necessary for the physical and
psychological wellbeing of all personnel involved.

Any ongoing assistance is a free and confidential service provided for all employees.

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1-6 INTRODUCTION USE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS

PUROPSE
To establish a guideline for all City employees and the public regarding the use of tobacco products.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all employees of the Altoona Fire Department.

GUIDELINE
Smoking or the use of any tobacco products and/or substitutes is strictly prohibited in any City
owned vehicle or inside any City building.

Smoking, or the use of any tobacco products and/or substitutes is prohibited in the presence of
the public while in the departmental uniform or anything else identifying you as an official of the
Altoona Fire Department (turn out gear, rescue jacket, etc). This applies to emergency scenes,
training areas, public relations events, public education events, etc.

Smoking or the use of tobacco products and/or substitutes will be permitted only in designated
smoking/tobacco use areas. These areas will be kept clean and free from tobacco materials.

All tobacco materials shall be disposed of in an appropriate container.

The designated smoking/tobacco use area is outside the building at the door to the apparatus bay on the
Northwest side of the fire station. This is the only designated smoking area on site.


7-1-95 1-14-12 1 of 3
1-7 INTRODUCTION PERSONAL HYIGENE & FACIAL HAIR

PURPOSE
This guideline establishes Department standards for the grooming and professional appearance of all This guideline establishes Department standards for the grooming and professional appearance of all
employees while representing the Altoona Fire Department and the City of Altoona.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all Department employees - performing normal
job duties as an employee of the City of Altoona Fire Department.

GUIDELINE
The face shall be kept clean-shaven in accordance with NFPA regulations and the Department
Respiratory Program, section 2-14 of the Altoona Fire Department Standard Operating Guidelines.

Grooming Grooming
Employees shall keep themselves clean. Good health habits shall be observed.
Individuals are expected to shower or bathe and to use deodorants. Cologne or perfume may be
used however shall not be overpowering.
Fingernails will be kept clean and will be groomed so as not to extend beyond the tips of the
fingers. Only clear or transparent natural color polish is allowed.
Wearing makeup that portrays other than the natural skin colors and a natural look is not
permitted. Makeup should not draw undue attention to the employee or look unprofessional.

Mustaches
Mustaches are permitted but shall conform to the following:
A non-eccentric, close-cropped mustache may be permissible and must be closely trimmed.
Mustaches shall not extend one-
the mouth, and a full upper lip must be readily visible.

of the upper lip.

Sideburns
Sideburns are permitted but shall conform to the following:
They shall be cropped close to the face to avoid any possibility of losing a face seal on an SCBA.
The sideburns shall not extend below the lowest part of the ear.
They will be neatly trimmed
They will be even width, not flared, and will end in a clean shaven horizontal line

Beards and Goatees
Department policy does NOT allow beards and goatees without prior approval of the Fire Chief or
designee in writing. (see Figure A)

Hair
Hair will be clean, neat, and groomed. The length and the style of the hair shall not be excessive,
eccentric, or extreme as to not draw unnecessary attention or look unprofessional in uniform. Hair
coloring must look natural (unnatural hair coloring such as, green, purple, blue, etc. are not
en combed, brushed, picked, blown,
teased, styled, or otherwise worn, It shall not interfere with the
safe and proper use and operation of self-contained breathing apparatus or respirator, proper use of
protective equipment, headgear, or the operation of any equipment at any time. protective equipment, headgear, or the operation of any equipment at any time.

Males
Hair shall be worn to the general shape of the head and may be worn to the top of, but may not extend
beyond the top of the collar.

Females
Hair shall be worn to a maximum length that does not extend below the shoulder under any condition.
The style of grooming will present a neat appearance. Hair ornaments such as ribbons shall not be worn.
Pins, combs, or barrettes may be worn as long as they are of black or dark blue in color.

Jewelry/Tattoos/Body Art

Tattoos/Body Art Tattoos/Body Art
No visible body art/paint/designs/tattoos are allowed at any time while in uniform.

Jewelry
Uniformed personnel are permitted to wear post-type earrings that are no more than 1/8-inch in
diameter.
Earrings that protrude more than 1/8 inch or dangle below the ear lobe shall be not permitted.
Multiple earrings shall not be allowed.
Any other visible body piercings or jewelry is prohibited. (eye brow, lip, nose, tongue, other facial, etc.)
The wearing of finger rings are allowed as long as they are of such design that under no
circumstances will they interfere with the operation of any equipment, cause undue attention, or
look unprofessional.
Necklaces or chains worn about the neck are permitted as long as they are of such design that
under no circumstances will they extend out of the clothing, cause undue attention, or look
unprofessional. unprofessional.

Each employee is responsible to uphold the professional image of the Department to the community and
will be held individually accountable for continuous compliance. Enforcement is incumbent upon the
firefighter's immediate supervisor.

Anyone who is not in compliant with this policy will not be allowed to be involved with any interior
firefighting or any other situation that would require the use of an SCBA or respirator per the
Respiratory Program, section 2-14 of the Altoona Fire Department Standard Operating Guidelines.

Figure A:
Firefighter Facial Hair Policy for
SCBA use within the Altoona Fire Department

Employees who are in violation of this policy may be restricted
from certain tasks or duties from certain tasks or duties

7-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 1
1-8 INTRODUCTION HARASSMENT & DISCRIMINATION

Sexual Harassment Sexual Harassment
The City of Altoona Fire Department strives to achieve excellence through its employees. As such, the
City of Altoona prohibits sexual harassment; or other harassment of any type, and strictly adheres to the
Sexual Harassment Policy as listed in the City of Altoona Employee Manual.

Nondiscrimination
The City of Altoona adheres to the nondiscrimination policy and admits qualified individuals to its
membership without regard to gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, race, color, religion,
national or ethnic origin, or disability.

Violations
Any discrepancies in adherence to this policy should be brought to their immediate supervisor, or if the
problem is with that particular supervisor, the next highest ranking officer in the chain of command who problem is with that particular supervisor, the next highest ranking officer in the chain of command who
will investigate the matter.


7-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 2
1-9 INTRODUCTION INFORMATION RELEASES

PURPOSE
To establish a guideline for the Altoona Fire Department for a Public Information Officer (PIO) and how To establish a guideline for the Altoona Fire Department for a Public Information Officer (PIO) and how
information shall be released to the public during or after an incident. The PIO is to be implemented to
relieve the Incident Commander of needing to work with the media, taking him/her away from
command responsibilities.

SCOPE
This applies to all Department employees for information release regarding any emergency or non-
emergency information, or any other Department function or public safety information for release.

GUIDELINE
Only the Public Information Officer (PIO), or authorized personnel by the Incident Commander or Fire
Chief is allowed to release information to the public. If the Incident Commander has not established a
PIO, then the IC shall take that responsibility. If any personnel are contacted by the media, they should
be directed to the Incident Commander or Public Information Officer. be directed to the Incident Commander or Public Information Officer.

PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER
It is the duty of the Public Information Officer to coordinate with Incident Command to formulate
information for release to the public and acts as a central clearing point, or liaison between the public
and the Department for the dissemination of information. The PIO is responsible for meeting with the
media and escorting them for taking pictures and film footage without interfering with emergency
operations while they are gathering information. The PIO should be prepared to answer questions
pertaining to the incident at hand such as hazardous situations, a rescue, outstanding performance of
Department members, first units arrived, actions taken, etc. The PIO and the Incident Commander will
be responsible for formulating any press releases that are required.

It is recommended that the same person be used as PIO whenever possible. This person should exhibit It is recommended that the same person be used as PIO whenever possible. This person should exhibit
helpfulness and concern towards persons requesting information. He/she can develop a working
relationship with members of the media which results in a better understanding between the media and
the Department. This person shall have good verbal communications skills and be considered a good
representative of the Department.
PRESS RELEASES
A press release should be formulated as soon as possible during or after an incident or event; or any
general statement regarding information for public safety.

The criteria for a media release should follow these guidelines:

Not allowed-
No names or other identifying information of any victim or suspect.
No medical history of any victim or employee.
No cost assessment until reasonably determined.
No information of types or severity of injuries of any victim or employee. No information of types or severity of injuries of any victim or employee.
No prior criminal record, character, or reputation of any suspect.
The existence of any confession, admission of guilt, or innocence of any person.
Personal opinions, rumors, hearsay, or false information of any kind.
Any information concerning the identity of any person under the age of 18 years.
The cause, or speculated cause, of a fire should not be released until the investigation is
complete.

What can be released-
Type of incident or event
Type of occupancy or location
Address of incident or event
Time of incident or event
Cost assessment if reasonably determined. Cost assessment if reasonably determined.
Number and type of Department vehicles involved.
Number of Department personnel involved.
Number of injuries and/or deaths involved:
-Department Personnel
-Civilian
Number of victims (adults and children) rescued or relocated, sex of victims, and destination
transported. (if applicable).
Actions taken by the Department.
Investigation details, only if prior approved of the Fire Chief or designee.
Mutual aid departments and/or agencies requested to assist.
Contact names and phone numbers for follow up inquires of information.

10-27-10 10-27-10 1 of 1
1-10 INTRODUCTION PHOTOGRAPHY & ELECTRONIC IMAGING

PURPOSE
To establish a guideline for the management of photographs and electronic images taken by Altoona To establish a guideline for the management of photographs and electronic images taken by Altoona
Fire Department employees to guarantee professionalism, privacy rights of department employees,
patients, fire victims, and the public that we serve.

SCOPE
This applies to all Department employees and all Department owned photography, audio and/or video
recording equipment, recording media device or any other electronic imaging and/or recording
equipment at the scene of any incident, including mutual aid calls for service, and/or any training,
official Department function, or activity. Violations of this policy or failure to permit inspection of any
device covered in this policy may result in disciplinary action.

GUIDELINE
Under no circumstances will any employee be allowed to use a personally or privately owned Under no circumstances will any employee be allowed to use a personally or privately owned
camera, video recorder, or the camera/video function of a personal cellular phone, PDA,
recording media device, or any other digital imaging device while at any incident at any time.

All scene photography/video shall be for clinical, documentation, investigation, or training
purposes only, and conducted by, or at the direction of, Altoona Fire Department personnel with
permission of the Incident Commander using only approved Department owned equipment.

All photographs and images containing individually identifiable patient information are covered
by HIPAA privacy laws and must be protected in the same manner as patient care reports and
documentation. Any images with this identifying information may not be released by the
Department to the public or news media in accordance with HIPAA privacy laws.

Images with address numbers/information, vehicle plate numbers, mailboxes with identifying
information, or any other material that could have names, addresses, phone numbers, or any
other identifying information should be avoided unless it is within the course and scope of duties other identifying information should be avoided unless it is within the course and scope of duties
of the employee during an official Department investigation.

Any and all on-scene images and/or any other images taken by an employee in the course and
scope of their employment are the sole property, and under the control, of the City of Altoona
Fire Depar
personally owned camera, cellular phone, PDA, or other recording media or imaging devices.

No images taken by an employee in the course and scope of their employment may be used,
printed, copied, scanned, e-mailed, posted, shared, reproduced, or otherwise distributed in any
manner other than official Department business. This prohibition includes the posting of any
Department photographs on personal internet sites such as, but not limited to, Facebook,
MySpace, YouTube, other public safety agency websites, or e-mailing to friends, relatives, or
colleagues.

Images taken during training exercises may be, released, used and posted in the above media
with prior permission of the Fire Chief or designee however must always remain professional
and reflect positively upon the Department.

All Department digital images will be downloaded as soon as possible, and will be cataloged and All Department digital images will be downloaded as soon as possible, and will be cataloged and
stored in a secure database with controlled access. After being downloaded, images on memory
cards shall be erased.

Personal use of Department owned cameras is strictly prohibited.

Helmet Cameras
Helmet mounted cameras, or any other recording or imaging device, is strictly prohibited without
the prior written permission of the Fire Chief or designee.


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2-1 EMPLOYMENT HIRING PROCESS

APPLICATIONS
The City of Altoona Fire Department has an open application process and is continually accepting The City of Altoona Fire Department has an open application process and is continually accepting
applications. An employment application may be obtained at the front desk of the Public Safety Building
during normal business hours or from a fire officer on regularly scheduled training nights. Completed
applications can be returned to the same place and are to be forwarded to the fire officer in charge.

PROCEDURE
1. Once an employment application is received, the officer in charge shall check to make sure the
applicant lives within the required minimum distance requirements.
(Miles from residence multiplied by the minutes of travel time must be equal to or be less than 18)

2. If the applicant lives within the required minimum distance, the applicant will be contacted to set
up an interview with the interview panel. up an interview with the interview panel.

3. After the interview, a criminal and employment background check is initiated. The results are
forwarded to the officer in charge and the Fire Chief for review.

4. Upon approval from the fire officer in charge and the Fire Chief, an appointment is set up for a
pre-employment physical and drug screening. The applicant is offered a conditional employment
pending the results.

5. The results of pre-employment physical are received and reviewed by the fire officer in charge
and the Fire Chief. Upon final approval, the applicant is advised of hire and forwarded to City
Hall to complete employment paperwork.

Probationary Period
After passing the above steps, an employee is hired on a probationary status for the period of one (1)
year from the official date of hire. This probationary period may be extended for any reason at the
discretion of the Fire Chief or designee at any time. During the probationary period, employment may be
terminated by the Department at any time.


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2-2 EMPLOYMENT CONDUCT

INDIVIDUAL EXPECTATIONS OF CONDUCT:

All employees must abide by the policies of this Department, the Police and Fire Commission,
and the City of Altoona Employee Manual.

Employees must not be involved in any illegal activity of any kind, directly or indirectly.

It shall be the responsibility of all personnel to meet and maintain minimum attendance
requirements for trainings and emergency calls. If you are unable to attend you must notify a fire
officer of your absence.

No employee shall appear at a meeting, training, alarm, and/or Department function under the
influence of a controlled substance and/or alcohol. This is grounds for immediate termination.

No employee shall wear official Department uniforms or emblems in an inappropriate manner
and not wear anything that will deter from the efficiency, good conduct, well being or reflect
upon the Department in a negative way. Employees must be dressed appropriately while upon the Department in a negative way. Employees must be dressed appropriately while
responding to calls.

No employee shall personally accept a reward, gift or gratuity for services rendered.

Employee honesty, conduct, and appearance are a very important part of the Department and the
image that we extend to the community at large. Poor professional conduct, being dishonest, or
having a poor appearance has a negative impact on professionalism that erodes the relationships
we have with the community and the fire service industry. Conduct should always be governed
by treating all persons in a manner that one would want to be treated in any given circumstance
that reflects positively on the individual employee as well as the entire organization at all times.

Employees are held to a higher standard of conduct and professionalism. Since the conduct of an
employee, on or off duty, may reflect directly upon the Department, an employee must at all
times conduct themselves in a manner which does not bring discredit to themselves, the times conduct themselves in a manner which does not bring discredit to themselves, the
Department, or the City. All members of the Department are expected to conduct themselves in
a professional manner so as to reflect positively on the Department at all times.

Weapons
Under no circumstances is any employee allowed or authorized to carry a weapon without the consent of
the Fire Chief in writing. Employees are allowed to carry a small folding knife or utility knife to
facilitate a rescue if needed but it cannot be used as a weapon.

7-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 2
2-3 EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYEE DISCIPLINE

PURPOSE PURPOSE
This guideline is to establish a standard for discipline of all employees of the Altoona Fire Department.
This will establish a basis to deliver discipline when deemed necessary and to define the disciplinary
actions available by the City of Altoona.

SCOPE
This guideline will apply to all employees of the Altoona Fire Department including administrative and
support staff. All discipline must be approved by the Police and Fire Commission.

GUIDELINE
Discipline of all City employees is explained in section 13 of the City of Altoona Employee Manual.
This employee manual governs all City Employees. Below are the options of discipline that the Fire This employee manual governs all City Employees. Below are the options of discipline that the Fire
Chief, or designee, could exercise if deemed necessary. The City of Altoona utilizes a progressive
system of discipline which may start at any point and progress to more serious steps at the sole
discretion of the City. The types of discipline utilized by the City are as follows:

Verbal Warning
The problem shall be discussed with the employee, including the expected corrective action. The
employee shall be informed the discussion is a verbal warning. The availability of the employee
assistance resources should be identified at this time. Documentation must be maintained in the
employee file of the specifics of the problem and -upon corrective action. This
documentation shall be signed and dated by both the employee and the Department head. The
Department head must state anticipated action if no improvement is seen within a specific time period
and must follow up with the employee.

Written Reprimand
A written statement of the problem(s) and corrective action shall be prepared and discussed with the
employee. The availability of employee assistance resources should be identified at this time.
Documentation must be maintained in the employee file of the specifics of the problem and the
-upon corrective action. This documentation shall be signed and dated by both the
employee and the Department head. The Department head must state anticipated action if no
improvement is seen within a specific time period and must follow up with the employee. A copy of the

Suspension without pay
An employee may be suspended without pay for a period determined by the Personnel Committee in its
sole discretion. Employee assistance resource participation as a condition of continued employment may
be appropriate at this time. Documentation must be maintained in the employee file of the specifics of
-upon corrective action. This documentation shall be signed and
dated by both the employee and the Department head. The Department head must state anticipated
action if no improvement is seen within a specific time period and must follow up with the employee. A
summary of the problem including all pertinent facts, documentation and a return-to-work date will be

Demotion Demotion
This action may be used when performance is significantly deficient, but other traits and skills are
acceptable in another position. Documentation must be maintained in the employee file of the specifics
-upon corrective action. This documentation shall be signed
and dated by both the employee and the Department head. The Department head must state anticipated
action if no improvement is seen within a specific time period and must follow up with the employee.

Discharge
This disciplinary action will be used when deemed warranted by the Common Council of the City of
Altoona, in its sole discretion.


7-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 1
2-4 EMPLOYMENT ALCOHOL/CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

PURPOSE PURPOSE
To establish a guideline to ensure no employee is under the influence of any effects of alcohol,
controlled substances, or medications any time while on duty.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all Department employees while on duty or on City property.

GUIDELINE

Alcohol, Controlled Substances, and Medications
All alcoholic beverages or other controlled substances/medications are not allowed under any
circumstances on, or in any City property, facility, or vehicle.

NFPA requires that all employees must have a minimum of eight (8) hours time after any and all alcohol NFPA requires that all employees must have a minimum of eight (8) hours time after any and all alcohol
consumption or any medication that may have an effect on your ability to respond. You will be
disqualified to respond until such time has passed to allow your body to
be free of any intoxicants, be well rested, well hydrated, and be ready for extreme physical activity.
This will be strictly enforced. Non-compliance will be grounds for immediate dismissal.

Any employee, who acts in an official capacity while perceived to be under the influence of a drug,
including alcohol, will be relieved of their duties and be suspended from active duty until the incident is
reviewed by the Fire Chief and/or designee. All employees are subject to a drug screen test at the
discretion of the Fire Chief, fire officer, or designee at any time without notice or cause.

No person shall be permitted to drive, operate, or ride in any City owned vehicle while under the
influence of alcohol and/or intoxicating substances.

Any employee who is found in possession of alcoholic beverages or other controlled substances while Any employee who is found in possession of alcoholic beverages or other controlled substances while
on duty on or in City property; including but not limited to vehicles, buildings, facilities, and offices; or
who is found to store or provide any alcoholic beverages, or other controlled substances, to others on or
in City property; shall be relieved of their duties, and shall be suspended from active duty until the
incident is reviewed by the Fire Chief and/or designee.

**Any employee that is found to be possession of any illegal drugs, paraphernalia, or other contraband,
or convicted of any related crime(s), shall be subject to discipline up to and including termination.**

7-1-95 10-15-11 1 of 4
2-5 EMPLOYMENT EMPLOYEE REQUIREMENTS

PURPOSE
This guideline is to establish minimum requirements of all employees in order to be eligible for This guideline is to establish minimum requirements of all employees in order to be eligible for
employment of the Altoona Fire Department. Each employee shall meet these minimum requirements as
listed in this guideline.

SCOPE
These requirements shall apply to all employees of the Altoona Fire Department.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Must possess and maintain a valid Wisconsin driver's license
Must be 18 years of age
Must have graduated high school or equivalent and be out of school
Must meet the maximum distance requirement from your residence to the fire station using a
formula set by the Police and Fire Commission. (for employees hired after January 1
st
, 2003) formula set by the Police and Fire Commission. (for employees hired after January 1 , 2003)
(Miles from residence multiplied by the minutes of travel time must be equal to or be less than 18)
No criminal record and be able to pass an employment/criminal background history check
Be able to pass an employment physical and drug screen
Completion of Department Orientation Program
Successful completion of probationary period
Pathogen Plan
Ability to speak, read and write the English language

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
State of Wisconsin Firefighter level I certification*
Current CPR certification*
FEMA IS-700: NIMS, An Introduction*
FEMA ICS-100: Introduction to Incident Command System* FEMA ICS-100: Introduction to Incident Command System*
Hazardous Materials Operations certification or higher*

*Must possess, or obtain within 12-18 months of date of hire
The Fire Chief or designee may wai Special Requirements based on individual situational information and/or circumstances.

Each employee shall possess s License for the
duration of his/her emplo license suspended, revoked, or expired,
ecomes valid. Employees
are required to notify a fire officer immediately if this occurs.
Personal Information Packet
Each employee is required to have a current Personal Information Packet on file for the duration of
his/her employment. Only the Emergency Contact Form of this packet is mandatory. Employees must
have a list of contacts on file in the event of an emergency or an on duty injury. If this should happen,
the Fire Chief or senior Fire Officer of the Department shall notify the contacts listed in the order listed
of the situation. This list shall be reviewed annually, or updated when information changes, to keep the
most current information on file. The rest of the packet is optional, however highly recommended. The
information provided to the Department will be of extreme comfort to the family, and this agency, in
wishes in case of a line of duty serious injury or death.

MINIMUM ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS
Individual performance shall be evaluated each quarter to show participation in training attendance and
call attendance. This evaluation offers a periodic status check of individual performance. Based on this
information, the individual can see if he/she needs to increase performance to meet the minimum annual
requirements.

The minimum attendance requirements are:

All personnel shall attend 10% of the emergency calls annually
All personnel shall attend 70% of the scheduled training annually

Emergency Call Attendance
Personnel must maintain a minimum call attendance of at least 10% annually.

At the end of each quarter, a reminder notice shall be given to those with less than 10%
attendance of calls. This review is to be a status check of individual attendance to see if an
increased response is needed to meet the minimum annual requirement.

At the end of the third quarter, a written reminder notice will be given to those with less than
10% attendance, with a thirty (30) day period to reply. The individual shall use this time to
schedule a meeting with the fire officers to review the circumstances causing him/her to be
below the minimum requirements and establish goals together to ensure compliance. below the minimum requirements and establish goals together to ensure compliance.

If at the end of thirty (30) days there is no response to schedule a meeting, the individual will be
automatically removed from service until a meeting is scheduled. It is the discretion of the fire officers if
the individual shall continue to be eligible to respond during this time.

Training Attendance
Personnel must maintain a minimum attendance to all training of at least 70% annually.

At the end of each quarter, a reminder notice shall be given to those with less than 70%
attendance of training. This review is to be a status check of individual attendance to see if an
increase is needed to meet the minimum annual requirement.

At the end of the third quarter, a written reminder notice will be given to those who have less
than 70% attendance due to unexcused absences, with a thirty (30) day period to reply. The
individual shall use this time to schedule a meeting with the fire officers to review the
circumstances causing him/her to be below the minimum requirements and establish goals
together to ensure compliance. together to ensure compliance.

If at the end of thirty (30) days there is no response to schedule a meeting, the individual will be
automatically removed from service until a meeting is scheduled. It is the discretion of the fire officers if
the individual shall continue to be eligible to respond during this time.

Excused Absences
If unable to attend scheduled trainings, personnel must notify a fire officer to be excused.

The following are considered excused absences:

Sickness (family/children included)
Work (full-time job)
Vacation or out of town
School meetings/functions
Family emergency or activity
Higher Education classes (other than fire/EMS related)
Approved Department training (CVTC, out of town, special classes, etc.)
Any other special circumstance approved by the Fire Chief and/or fire officers.

When an individual gives notification of an excused absence, it shall be noted on the Roll Call Sheet
next to their name so it can be recorded. If an individual does not properly notify a fire officer that they
will not be attending training for any reason listed above, it shall be recorded as an UNEXCUSED
absence.

NOTE: It is possible for an individual to have several excused absences and be below the minimum NOTE: It is possible for an individual to have several excused absences and be below the minimum
attendance requirements for training. Any individual who is below 70% attendance, however has
excused absences for those trainings missed due to the circumstances listed above, shall be considered in
compliance. The Fire Chief and/or fire officers shall determine on a case by case basis how many
excused absences are acceptable. If attendance is not at an acceptable level, an employee may be placed
on a leave of absence or placed on suspension until that person can improve their attendance levels.

Unexcused Absences
Any employee that has 3 (three) or more consecutive unexcused absences for training shall be issued a
letter of intent by the fire officers. The individual shall be required to contact the fire officers within the
specific time period given to discuss intentions and options of continuing employment.

If no response is given within the time period, individuals who are below the minimum attendance
requirements may be placed on administrative suspension pending a review by the fire officers and/or
the Fire Chief for possible termination.

In all cases, the information shall be forwarded to the Police & Fire Commission for a final decision of
suspension/termination. The individual has the right to appeal their case decision to the Police & Fire
Commission as outlined in the City of Altoona Personnel Manual. Commission as outlined in the City of Altoona Personnel Manual.

HOURS RESTRICTIONS

The City of Altoona is a participant in the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) and is governed by
State and Federal labor laws as they pertain to part-time employees. This means there is a 1200 hours
per calendar year (year to year and date to date) restriction on part-time employees that are employed
on or after July 1, 2011. If an employee had previously participated in the WRS, or was hired previous
to July 1, 2011, then the total number of hours is 600 instead of 1200.

If an employee has 600/1200 hours or more, that employee is considered full-time and must be paid
certain retirement benefits by state statutes. The City of Altoona Personnel Committee has adopted a certain retirement benefits by state statutes. The City of Altoona Personnel Committee has adopted a
policy that no part-time employee will exceed 600/1200 hours in a 12 (twelve) month, rotating calendar
. Any individual who has a total of 500/1100 or more hours may be placed
on restrictions until such time that the total number of hours drop to less than 500/1100.

Any person over 500/1100 hours shall be monitored and may be restricted from certain job duties during
the time their total hours exceed 500/1100. When their total hours reach 550/1150, they shall be
completely suspended from duty and will turn in all Department property until such time their total
hours worked has dropped below 550/1150. This is entirely at the discretion of the Fire Chief.


7-1-95 1-20-11 1 of 1
2-6 EMPLOYMENT PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS

PURPOSE
This guideline is to establish a minimum standard of performance to be an employee of the Altoona Fire
Department. This will establish minimum competency levels to maintain in order to continue to be an
employee in good standing. employee in good standing.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all members of the Altoona Fire Department up to and including the Fire
Chief. Evaluations shall be performed annually, typically in the beginning of the year as to set goals and
standards for the individual firefighter to accomplish. Firefighters shall be evaluated every six (6)
months while on probation.

GUIDELINE
Evaluations are performed to give each firefighter an idea and a comparison of their performance and
compliance with minimum standards set by the Department. These evaluations are a tool to counsel and
motivate firefighters to meet/exceed the minimum standards and reach individual achievements. These
performance evaluations are to improve on department goals, as well as individual goals, to become an performance evaluations are to improve on department goals, as well as individual goals, to become an
outstanding firefighter.

Each officer will be responsible for performing evaluations in a timely manner for firefighters in his/her
assigned company. Firefighters shall be evaluated by their assigned Lieutenant(s), Lieutenants and
Captains shall be evaluated by the Assistant Chief, and the Assistant Chief shall be evaluated by the Fire
Chief. The Police and Fire Commission shall evaluate the Fire Chief.

The evaluation uses a list of forty two (42) questions broken down into fourteen (14) components of job
performance. These components are:

-Speed in Learning -Quality of Work -Attitude Towards Supervision
-Efficiency in Use of Time -Quality of Judgment -Quantity of Work
-Training Attendance -Co-Worker Relationships -Leadership/Mentoring
-Knowledge of the Job -Attention to Detail -Call Attendance
-Self-Sufficiency -Initiative -Self-Sufficiency -Initiative

Each employee must maintain a minimum score set by the fire officers and/or Fire Chief. If an employee
fails to maintain the minimum the individual may be placed on probationary status until his/her
performance meets the minimum requirements. A probationary firefighter who does not meet or exceed
the minimum standard may be subject to dismissal. Company officers are encouraged to motivate the
firefighter to raise his/her performance levels to the requirements.

Copies of the Evaluation Form will be given to the firefighter for his/her records and personal
motivation. A copy shall also be placed in his/her permanent personnel file.
(SEE APPENDIX Figure A-EMPLOYEE EVALUATION)

7-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 2
2-7 EMPLOYMENT ORIENTATION

PURPOSE
This guideline is to establish a uniform standard of training for new employees of the Altoona Fire This guideline is to establish a uniform standard of training for new employees of the Altoona Fire
Department. This standard creates a foundation from which the new employee can build on and become
familiar with Department policies and procedures.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all employees of the City of Altoona Fire Department.

GUIDELINE
All Department employees shall be involved in ongoing training and education. All personnel shall have
a good understanding of Department equipment and be competent in their operations, for their
designated position. Each person shall be responsible to keep proficient in all duties as applicable for
their status. All personnel shall be responsible to attend regular trainings and scheduled higher education
classes and seminars to do this. From time to time, competency checks will be done to help assure a safe classes and seminars to do this. From time to time, competency checks will be done to help assure a safe
and smooth operating department.

Mentoring Program
The Department has established a mentoring program that pairs all new recruits with a senior firefighter
or officer to mentor them, typically during the time of their probationary period. The assigned mentor
has two roles. The first is to help the new employee become familiar with Department policies and
procedures by completing the Orientation Packet. The second is to answer any questions and to help the
new employee along the way in the first few months to adjust to the Department and introduce the
recruit to the rest of the personnel. This helps the new employee to fit in and encourages team building.
It is also a good review for the mentor.

Mentors shall be assigned to new employees by the orientation officer. Mentors should lead by example,
be very familiar with policies and procedures, and be in good standing with the Department. The mentor
shall also accept some personal responsibility to assist the new employee in the adjustment of becoming shall also accept some personal responsibility to assist the new employee in the adjustment of becoming
a firefighter.

Evaluations
Recruits shall be evaluated after six (6) months of employment by their assigned squad officers and/or
mentor. This evaluation shall serve as a status check for the recruit to show what progress has been
made since he/she started and to establish goals for the recruit to strive for. The assigned mentor should
be a part of this evaluation process to provide information as to the status of the recruit.
ORIENTATION PROGRAM
Each new member will be given an orientation packet that highlights sections of the Standard Operating
Guidelines and will familiarize the recruit on policies, equipment, procedures, and housekeeping topics
that are not covered in the SOG book. The orientation packet shall be completed within the first ninety
(90) days of employment.

This packet will cover the following information, but not limited to:
Chain of Command both in station and on an emergency scene
Housekeeping Items
o Squad assignment and radio number
o Training schedule
o Station tour o Station tour
o Traffic patterns, entrance and exit to parking lot
o Door combinations and any keys needed
o Gear and equipment issued
o Phone numbers and phone procedures
Radios
Paperwork
Conduct
Vehicle Manning & Response Duties
Riding Assignments
Equipment Issued
Firefighter Safety
Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Vehicle Operations
Equipment Familiarization Equipment Familiarization

The orientation packet is to be completed within the first ninety (90) days from the date of hire.
When the recruit completes the orientation packet, it must be returned to the orientation officer. After
approval by the orientation officer, the packet shall become a permanent part
file.

1-1-05 11-25-09 1 of 5
2-8 EMPLOYMENT LIGHT / RESTRICTED DUTY

PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for temporary limited term restricted duty
assignments and to outline the process and administration of the City's restricted duty program. This assignments and to outline the process and administration of the City's restricted duty program. This
policy shall apply to all employees.

SCOPE
It is the policy of the City of Altoona to allow employees, when possible, the opportunity to work in a
limited term restricted duty assignment, where the employee is unable to perform full and regular duty
due to an injury, illness or pregnancy. The availability of limited term restricted duty assignments is
exclusively determined by the City and is not intended to constitute a long-term or permanent
assignment.
This policy does not limit the rights of employees to seek reasonable accommodations as provided under
the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

GUIDELINE GUIDELINE
The City is committed to providing work, when possible, for employees who have been restricted by a
physician because of an injury, illness or pregnancy. Restricted duty is temporary and all assignments
must be within the employee's documented medical restrictions. Every effort will be made to place
employees in positions within their own departments, but if necessary, employees will be placed
wherever an appropriate assignment is available. Restricted duty may be at a different location, with
different hours and different duties than performed in the employee's pre-injury/illness position.

There is no guarantee of restricted duty work. The City of Altoona may not be able to place all
employees with work restrictions on restricted duty assignments. The amount and type of restricted duty
work may vary from time to time based on the changing needs of the organization, budget, work
restrictions, availability of work, and skill level of the employee. Overtime, if available and it falls
within the physician's restrictions, is at the discretion of the City of Altoona. Provisions of restricted
duty work are at the discretion of the City of Altoona as it determines is in its best interest at the time.
Nothing in this policy shall alter, amend or add to the benefits provided to employees through a
collective bargaining agreement or other contractual agreement. collective bargaining agreement or other contractual agreement.

DEFINITIONS

Restricted duty: A temporary duty assignment, less arduous than the employee's regular job assignments.
Work-related injury/illness: Any injury/illness that occurs in the course of and arises out of employment.
Non work-related injury/illness: Any injury or illness that does not occur in the course of or arise out of
employment.
Limited Term Assignment: A non-permanent assignment of short duration, in which the nature and
conditions of such assignment do not permit attainment of permanent status for that assignment.
PROCEDURES

Employees
Employees who are not on worker's compensation are requesting limited term restricted duty shall submit to
their immediate supervisor a completed "Request for Limited Term Restricted Duty" form (Exhibit I) and an
"Employee Work Restrictions" form (Exhibit II) completed by the treating physician. The supervisor will
sign the acknowledgement and forward to the Human Resources (HR) Safety Coordinator.

HR Safety Coordinator shall:

1. Review the request.

2. Determine if there is a restricted duty work assignment that meets the employee's skills and medical
restrictions. When necessary, the employee shall use accrued sick leave or may be placed on
medical leave of absence until a request is approved.

3. Contact the employee's supervisor or department contact about the availability of restricted duty
assignment that meets the employee's medical restrictions within the employee's department. If no
work is available within the employee's department, the HR Safety Coordinator will search the
restricted duty project list for other suitable assignments outside the employee's department.

4. Contact the employee's department Fire Chief or designee about the availability of a suitable
assignment outside the employee's department and obtain approval from the department Fire
Chief or designee for such assignment. The Coordinator shall also secure approval of the
department Fire Chief or designee of assignments of other city employees to their department.

5. Notify the employee of approval or denial of the request. (Exhibit III) 5. Notify the employee of approval or denial of the request. (Exhibit III)

6. If approved, notify the department contact and restricted duty assignment supervisor that an
employee is being assigned. (Exhibit IV)

ELIGIBILITY

Work-related injury/illness
An employee who has suffered a work-related injury/illness is eligible for limited term restricted duty subject
to availability of work, skill level, and documented medical restrictions.
An employee with a work-related injury/illness who is offered and refuses a limited term restricted duty
assignment may forfeit wage benefits under the Worker's Compensation Act.

While on limited term restricted duty for a work related injury or illness, employees will continue to While on limited term restricted duty for a work related injury or illness, employees will continue to
receive their regular rate of pay. If an employee is only eligible for part-time work in a restricted duty
capacity, the remaining time lost will be paid according to applicable contractual agreements, policy
and/or the Worker's Compensation Act.

Non work-related injury/illness and pregnancy
An employee who has suffered a non-work-related injury/illness or is pregnant may be eligible for
limited term restricted duty subject to availability of work, skill level, and documented medical
restrictions.
The maximum time that an employee with a non-work related injury/illness shall be allowed to work on
limited term restricted duty is three (3) months (cumulative) in a twelve (12) month period measured
from the date that the limited term restricted duty assignment is approved.
The maximum time that an employee who is pregnant shall be allowed to work on limited term
restricted duty is six (6) months for each pregnancy measured from the date that the limited term
restricted duty assignment is approved.

An employee who has concluded his/her maximum allowable time on restricted duty assignment and
who is not able to return to full duty, will be placed on medical leave of absence in accordance with
contract provisions and/or City policy, and in accordance with the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA).

While on limited term restricted duty for a non-work related injury/illness or for pregnancy, an
employee may receive a rate of pay different from his/her regular rate. The employee may be paid at a
rate that is consistent with the job he/she is performing on restricted duty and not necessarily the
employees' regular rate of pay. employees' regular rate of pay.

Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS)
If an employee meets the WRS eligibility requirements separately in each category, the hours should be
reported separately in each category.
If an employee meets the eligibility requirements in one category, but not the other, all of the hours are
reported in the category that the employee is eligible.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Employee's Responsibilities

All employees are expected to follow their physician's recommendations, medical restrictions, All employees are expected to follow their physician's recommendations, medical restrictions,
and limitations, at all times, both on and off the job. Any employee, whether on or off duty, who
disregards his/her restrictions or engages in conduct inconsistent with those restrictions may be
subject to discipline, up to and including discharge.

Employees are expected to cooperate fully with the City and return to work on either full duty or
restricted duty as quickly as possible. Additionally, employees with a work-related injury or
illness are expected to cooperate fully with the City's third-party administrator.

Employees will be required to comply with all other rules and regulations while working on
restricted duty assignment.

Employees are responsible for furnishing a written updated "Employee Work Restrictions Form"
of their medical condition to the HR Safety Coordinator after each physician's visit or at thirty
(30) day intervals from their last physician's visit. (30) day intervals from their last physician's visit.

Employees will be expected to submit a completed "Employee Work Restrictions" form or an
equivalent certification form prior to returning to full duty. Employees may be
subject to a fit for duty evaluation prior to returning to unrestricted duty.

Under no circumstances shall an employee perform work that is outside of the physician's listed
work restrictions.

Supervisor's Responsibilities

Supervisors shall be responsible for assuring that employees do not perform work outside of the
treating physician's restrictions. This includes monitoring the authorized number of hours the
employee is released to work on restricted duty.

Supervisors are required to maintain strict confidentiality regarding the employee's injury,
illness, pregnancy and/or limitations.

Supervisors of the department/division that has the restricted duty assignment shall be
responsible for the supervision of the employee assigned to perform the assignment. responsible for the supervision of the employee assigned to perform the assignment.

Supervisors are responsible for contacting the HR Safety Coordinator regarding any problems
with performance and/or limitations involving the employee on restricted duty.

Supervisors are responsible for submitting the appropriate paperwork to the HR Safety
Coordinator regarding request for restricted duty assignments.

HR Safety Coordinator Responsibilities

The HR Safety Coordinator shall be responsible for managing the restricted duty program
including coordination and priority of restricted duty projects and coordination of a department
contact list.

The HR Safety Coordinator shall monitor the length of time an employee is working on
restricted duty assignment to ensure compliance with the maximum allowable time for non-
work-related and pregnancy restricted duty assignment.

The HR Safety Coordinator shall ensure that the restricted duty assignment is within the
employee's work restrictions.

The HR Safety Coordinator shall be responsible for securing approval from the department Fire
Chief or designee before placing an employee on assignment within their department and before
placing one of their employees on an assignment in another department.

Department Contact Responsibilities Department Contact Responsibilities

Each department contact coordinator shall be responsible for timely response to the HR Safety
Coordinator in updating the restricted duty project list and shall keep the HR Safety Coordinator
informed on the status of restricted duty projects.

Each department coordinator shall be responsible for coordinating an employee's assignment to
restricted duty within their respective departments. This shall include working with the supervisor of the
restricted duty assignment and forwarding a copy of the Department Notification of Restricted Duty
Assignment form (Exhibit IV) to the supervisor.
Department Fire Chief or designee responsibilities

Department Fire Chiefs or designees shall be responsible for approving all restricted duty requests for
their employees, department Fire Chiefs or designees shall be responsible for approving assignments of
other city employees to their department.

PRIORITY OF ASSIGNMENT

Requests for limited term restricted duty assignments will be prioritized based on the following:

1. Work-related injury/illness
2. Pregnancy
3. Non work-related injury/illness

Employees already working a limited term restricted duty assignment may be displaced from an
assignment to accommodate a subsequent work-related request for limited term restricted duty
assignment. Assignment of limited term restricted duty shall be at the discretion of the Human
Resources Department.

An employee working restricted duty assignment will stay on restricted duty, provided there is restricted
duty work available until one of the following:

RETURN TO WORK

Prior to returning to work, the employee may be required to undergo an examination with a Doctor
chosen by the City for a fit-for-duty assessment or may be required to sign an authorization allowing the
City physician to speak with the employee's treating physician. This decision will be at the sole
discretion of the employee's Department Fire Chief and Human Resources Fire Chief.

The employee must have his/her physician complete the "Employee Work Restriction" form (Exhibit II)
or equivalent form indicating that the employee is able to return to work without restrictions. This form
must be submitted to the employee's supervisor prior to returning to work. The Supervisor will forward a
copy to the HR Safety Coordinator copy to the HR Safety Coordinator

This standard and policy takes effect on the above stated date and will remain in effect until
amended, superseded, or cancelled by the issuing authority. This standard and policy is to become
a permanent part of your department rules manual.

(SEE APPENDIX Figure B LIGHT DUTY FORMS)

1-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 3
2-9 EMPLOYMENT BLOOD BOURNE PATHOGEN
EXPOSURE CONTROL

PURPOSE
To establish a procedure for all Department employees to deal with the potential exposure to blood To establish a procedure for all Department employees to deal with the potential exposure to blood
borne pathogens or communicable diseases. Since medical history and examination cannot identify
patients infected with HIV or other blood borne pathogens, blood and body fluid precautions should be
consistently used for all patients, especially those that the risk of blood exposure is increased and the
infectious status of the patient is unknown.

SCOPE
This policy applies to all Department employees that could be involved in any incident dealing with
patient handling in any manner, cleaning of equipment used in patient care, or any other incident or
circumstances where an employee could come into contact with bodily fluids. Each employee shall be
familiar with this policy and shall have required annual refresher training. Training will be made
available to Department employees on an annual basis or when significant new information becomes
available. All new members will receive training prior to being placed on line.

GUIDELINE GUIDELINE
Universal Precautions
Universal precautions are recommended by the Center for Disease Control as a means of protection for
Health care providers. Universal precautions are intended to supplement rather than replace
recommendations for routine infection control, such as hand washing and use of gloves to prevent gross
microbial contamination of hands.

Hand washing facilities may not always be readily available. In such cases, an appropriate antiseptic
hand cleaner in conjunction with clean towels or antiseptic towelettes may be used and hand washing
should be done as soon as possible. Universal precautions apply to blood and other body fluid
containing visible blood.

Blood is the single most important source of HIV, hepatitis B virus and other blood pathogens.
Universal precautions also apply to tissues, semen, vaginal secretions and the following fluids: cerebral
spinal, synovial (joints), pleural (chest), peritoneal (abdominal), pericardial (heart), and amniotic (fluid spinal, synovial (joints), pleural (chest), peritoneal (abdominal), pericardial (heart), and amniotic (fluid
around an unborn infant). Universal precautions do not apply to feces, nasal secretions, sputum, saliva,
sweat, tears, urine, and vomitus, unless they contain visible blood.

Universal precautions should be the minimum precautions for all procedures in an emergency or major
traumatic injury. Routine use of appropriate barrier precautions such as gloves and surgical mask should
be worn as needed and protective eyewear with face shield should be worn if splashing/spraying of
blood or body fluid is likely. Appropriate protective barriers shall be used to prevent exposure to blood,
body fluids containing visible blood and other fluid to which universal precautions apply. From the
exposure determination, the appropriate protective equipment such as, but not limited to gloves; gowns;
face shields or mask and eye protection; mouthpieces; resuscitation bag masks; pocket masks or other
devices should be used.
If an employee temporarily and briefly declines to use personal protective equipment under rare
situations, it must be the employee's judgment in that instance that its use would prevent or delay the
delivery of health care, which could cause a negative outcome.

UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS PROCEDURES
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Gloves
Will be worn when contact with blood and/or body fluids, mucous membranes, or non-intact skin
of any patient is anticipated.
Will be worn when handling items or surfaces soaked with blood or body fluids.
Will be worn when cleaning equipment used in-patient handling.
Should be changed between patients. Should be changed between patients.
Should be changed as promptly as possible, if tearing or puncture occurs.
Hand washing should be done after removal of gloves.
Should be discarded in a red Biohazard container.

Masks & Protective Eyewear
Should be worn when the possibility of splashes or sprays of blood or body fluids are likely to
occur.

Cover Gowns or Aprons
Should be worn when the possibility of a splash or spray of blood or body fluid may occur.

Hand Washing shall be done
After removing gloves.
Between patients.
After accidental contact with skin contaminated with blood or body fluids. After accidental contact with skin contaminated with blood or body fluids.
After each call that an employee had contact with a patient.
After cleaning equipment that was used in patient care.

Needles, Syringes, or other "Sharps"
Needles and sharps should never be recapped, manipulated, bent, or broken.
Should be disposed into a puncture resistant container.

Resuscitation Equipment (includes ventilation as well as suction devices)
These devices should be cleaned and disinfected with an Environmental Protection Agency
approved disinfectant.

EXPOSURE CONTROL TRAINING
The Altoona Fire Department shall ensure that training on Exposure Control is provided to the personnel The Altoona Fire Department shall ensure that training on Exposure Control is provided to the personnel
of their department where occupational exposure may occur. This training shall be required within
twelve (12) months of the previous training. Training shall be tailored to the education and language
level of the employees. The training shall cover the following:
A copy of the standard and an explanation of its content;
A general explanation of the epidemiology and symptoms of blood borne diseases;
An explanation of the mode of transmission of blood borne pathogens;
An explanation of the Department exposure control plan and the means by which employee can
obtain a copy;
An explanation of the appropriate method for recognizing tasks and other activities that may
involve exposure to blood and other potentially infectious material;
An explanation of the use and limitations of methods that will prevent or reduce exposure
including appropriate engineering controls, work practices, and personal protective equipment;
Information on the types, proper use, location, removal, handling,
Decontamination and disposal of personal protective equipment;
An explanation of the basis for selection of personal protective equipment;
Information on the hepatitis B vaccine, including efficacy, safety, method of administration,
benefits, and that it will be offered free of charge;
Information on the appropriate action to take and persons to contact in an emergency involving
blood or other potentially infectious materials;
An explanation of the procedure to follow if an exposure incident occurs, including the method
of reporting the incident and the medical follow-up that will be available;
Information on the post-exposure evaluation and follow-up that the employer is required to Information on the post-exposure evaluation and follow-up that the employer is required to
provide for the employee following an exposure incident;
An explanation of the signs and labels and/or color-coding systems;

Cleaning and Decontamination of Equipment
Chemical germicides that are registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as "sterile" may
be used either for sterilization or high-level disinfections. Medical devices that require sterilization or
disinfections should be thoroughly cleaned before being exposed to the germicide and the
manufacturers' instructions for use of the germicide should be followed. In addition to commercially
available chemical germicides, a solution of sodium hypochlorite (house bleach) prepared daily can be
used at a mixture of 1:10 dilution of water and bleach.
Visible materials should be removed with a germicide, then decontaminate with fresh germicidal
chemical after cleaning.
Gloves should be worn during cleaning and decontamination procedures. Gloves should be worn during cleaning and decontamination procedures.

Cleaning of contaminated clothing
All clothing materials that are grossly contaminated with blood or body fluids are to be placed in a bag
and identified as to the type of contamination. The bag should be taken to the current laundry facility,
which the City is contracting with.

Environmental waste disposal
Infectious waste should be either incinerated or should be decontaminated before disposal in a sanitary
landfill. Infectious waste should be placed in plastic garbage bags in the container marked "Infectious
Waste - Biohazard". When the container is full, the bag should be taken for disposal.
Gloves
Disposable equipment
Blood or body fluid soaked materials

HEPATITIS B VACCINATION/POST-EXPOSURE EVALUATION
The City of Altoona shall make available the Hepatitis B vaccine to all employees that anticipate skin, eye,
mucous membrane, or contact with blood or other potentially infectious materials that may result from the
performance of an employee's duties. This vaccine is to be made available to all employees who have the potential
for exposure at no cost to the employee within 10 days of employment with such duties or when the vaccine
becomes available. Prescreening is not required. Employees must sign a declination form if they choose not to be
vaccinated, but may later opt to receive the vaccine at no cost to the employee. Post Exposure Evaluation and
follow up for all exposed employees shall be provided at no cost to employee. This should be done by a licensed
health care professional. This should be done as soon as possible after an exposure. Any cost associated with post-
exposure prophylaxis, counseling, and evaluation of reported illnesses must be paid by the City of Altoona.

1-1-05 11-25-09 1 of 2
2-10 EMPLOYMENT SIGNIFICANT EXPOSURE REPORTING

PURPOSE
To establish a procedure for reporting a significant exposure to any blood borne pathogen and/or contact To establish a procedure for reporting a significant exposure to any blood borne pathogen and/or contact
with bodily fluids.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all Department employees that would come in contact with bodily fluids
either through patient care, cleaning or using equipment that was used in patient care, or contact with
fluids while performing official duties.

GUIDELINE

Significant Exposure Definition
(s.146.025, WIS.STATS.) "Significant exposure" means sustained a contact, which carries a potential
for transmission of HIV or other communicable disease/illness, by one or more of the following: for transmission of HIV or other communicable disease/illness, by one or more of the following:
Transmission of blood, semen or other body fluid into a body orifice.
Exchange of blood during the accidental or intentional infliction of a penetrating wound,
including a needle puncture.
Blood or other body fluid exchange into an eye, an open wound, an oozing lesion, or where a
significant breakdown in the epidermal barrier has occurred.
Exposure to saliva as the result of a bite during the course of which the skin is broken.
The provision of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Other routes of exposure as defined by the Wisconsin Department of Health and Social Services
and the National Center for Disease Control.

AIRBORNE BACTERIA
In the case of possible exposure to AIRBORNE BACTERIA, both of the local hospitals have
mechanism in place to initiate an appropriate tracking of all exposed personnel both in the hospital and
pre-hospital care providers. The Infection Control Nurse from either hospital will initiate this tracking pre-hospital care providers. The Infection Control Nurse from either hospital will initiate this tracking
mechanism upon receipt of any positive bacteriology or serology reports received from the laboratory,
as deemed necessary and where applicable by law.

The Infection Control Nurse shall contact the Department of the possible exposure, who shall notify the
affected employee(s). The nurse shall advise the appropriate treatment, so medical care can then be
initiated at the hospital or by the personnel of their choice.

Exposure Reporting

In the case of a significant exposure to BLOOD or BODY FLUIDS, the employee shall upon
recognizing the hazard, follow one of the below procedures:
A significant exposure should be reported immediately after it occurred, or as soon as possible
within 24 hours of the incident.

An officer or senior firefighter in charge of the incident shall be notified, who in turn shall notify
the next highest ranking officer of the situation.

A Significant Exposure Report Form should be filled out as soon as possible so medical care can
be initiated immediately. be initiated immediately.

If at the scene, the employee(s) shall initiate action by notifying the ambulance staff to notify the
receiving physician at the hospital to initiate blood testing procedures of the patient for a
significant exposure. The employee(s) shall consider themselves and equipment out of service
until decontamination is completed.

If at the station the employee(s) should notify the officer in charge of the situation, they along
with the equipment shall be out of service until decontamination of both is completed.

If at the hospital, the employee(s) should notify the emergency room staff as soon as possible to
initiate blood testing procedures of the patient for a significant exposure and notify the officer in
charge, so that employee(s) are logged as "out of service" until decontamination is completed.

In all cases of suspected exposure the affected member, with the help of the officer in charge will In all cases of suspected exposure the affected member, with the help of the officer in charge will
fill out:
The Workman's Compensation Employers First Report of Injury or Disease.
The Altoona Fire Department Significant Exposure Report shall be filled out.

(SEE APPENDIX Figure C SIGNIFICANT EXPOSURE REPORT FORM)

A total of four (4) copies of the Exposure Report Form will then be generated with copies going to the
following:
The Workman's Compensation Form.
Employee Confidential Medical Record- City of Altoona.
Treatment Facility Medical Records.
The Employee(s).

All medical records of employees shall be retained by the Department for the duration of employment,
plus 30 years.

1-1-02 6-17-11 1 of 14
2-11 EMPLOYMENT POSITION DESCRIPTIONS

PURPOSE
To establish a guideline that defines the roles and responsibilities of each position of rank within the To establish a guideline that defines the roles and responsibilities of each position of rank within the
Department. Individual duties are not limited to the duties listed. These listings can be changed at the
discretion of the Fire Chief or designee at any time.

SCOPE
This guideline applies to all employees of the City of Altoona Fire Department.

Firefighter

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This position protects life, property, and the environment by performing fire suppression, rescue,
emergency and non-emergency aid, hazardous materials, and fire prevention duties.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Works under the close supervision of a fire officer or senior firefighter in the absence of a fire officer.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED
May supervise firefighters in the absence of a fire officer based on seniority or situational training and/or
experience.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The tasks, duties, and responsibilities listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent
working in this position. Management may assign additional tasks, duties, and responsibilities related to
the type of work of this position. the type of work of this position.

Complies with all Department Standard Operating Guidelines and regulations of the City of
Altoona Employee Manual.

Functions within the National Incident Management and Incident Command Systems.

ecial calls for
assistance from other agencies to perform suppression, hazardous materials incident response
and rescue duties as part of a fire crew.

Performs firefighting activities including laying hose, and performing fire combat, containment,
extinguishment, and water supply tasks; Performs rescue activities including removal of victims
from hazardous locations and extrication of victims from vehicles or other entrapment as part of
a fire crew.

Uses power and hand tools to ventilate burning structures and perform forcible entry.

Positions and climbs ladders to gain access to upper levels of buildings or to assist individuals
from a hazardous atmosphere or conditions.

Provides crowd and traffic control at emergency scenes; assists with salvage, overhaul, cleanup,
and evacuation activities as necessary. and evacuation activities as necessary.

May drive and operate fire response vehicles.

Perform the supervision of firefighters or a fire crew with assigned duties in the absence of a fire
officer or senior firefighter.

Assist with documentation of all fire and other emergency incidents and responses.

Cleans and maintains fire apparatus, equipment, buildings and grounds; tests fire hoses and
ladders; maintains emergency response equipment in a constant state of readiness.

Conducts fire drills and tests fire hydrants when needed; Prepares pre-fire plans for buildings;
participates in fire prevention and fire safety education activities.

Attends and participates in regular department training, seminars, and meetings in accordance to Attends and participates in regular department training, seminars, and meetings in accordance to
minimum standards.

Achieves and maintains the minimum requirement for incident attendance in accordance to
minimum standards.

Wears required personal protective clothing and equipment including self contained breathing
apparatus.

Be able to communicate using two-way communications systems.

Performs general clerical work as required, including but not limited to preparing reports and
records, copying and filing documents, entering and retrieving computer data, attend meetings,
answering the telephone, etc.

DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Must be 18 years of age.
Must have graduated high school or equivalent.
Must meet the minimum distance requirement from your residence to the fire station using the
formula set by the Police and Fire Commission.

State of Wisconsin Firefighter level I certification*
Current CPR certification*
FEMA IS-700: NIMS, An Introduction*
FEMA ICS-100: Introduction to Incident Command System*
Hazardous Materials Operations certification or higher*
*Must possess, or obtain within 12-18 months of date of hire

-Completion of Department Orientation Program

-No felony convictions, no misdemeanor conviction involving moral turpitude or pattern of
misdemeanor convictions, no pending misdemeanor or felony charges, no use or sale of illegal drugs. misdemeanor convictions, no pending misdemeanor or felony charges, no use or sale of illegal drugs.

- Blood borne Pathogen Plan.

-Ability to speak, read and write the English language.

Fire Inspector

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This position is an administrative position with special enforcement authority delegated through the Fire
Chief as a deputy of the Wisconsin Department of Commerce. This position provides a variety of
technical assistance and administrative work related to fire inspections, prevention, public education,
and emergency preparedness.

Works under the general supervision of a Fire Captain with special direction from the Lead Fire Works under the general supervision of a Fire Captain with special direction from the Lead Fire
Inspector.

Normal supervision exercised to the current rank of the individual.

the type of work of this position.

Altoona Employee Manual. Altoona Employee Manual.


Inspects existing buildings, structures, public areas, construction and remodeling sites to identify
fire hazards and ensure compliance with state and national fire codes as adopted by the
Wisconsin Department of Commerce; upon request, conducts voluntary home inspections.

Resolves compliance problems with owners/occupants within scope of knowledge and authority;
explain applicable codes to owners/occupants; offer professional advice to aid in
eliminating/reducing these hazards to ensure compliance of related codes.

Coordinates, schedules and participates in public education and events; works closely with
administrative staff to coordinate events and education topics; provides public education classes
and demonstrations on fire prevention, fire safety and emergency preparedness in schools,
churches, and community service groups. churches, and community service groups.

Participates in the inspection of hydrants, sprinkler systems and elements of a fire prevention or
protection system; conducts fire drills and tests fire hydrants when needed.

Reviews and approves construction plans for code compliance; prepares pre-fire plans for
buildings; attends all relevant operational and administrative meetings to ensure Department
representation.

Perform all related public service announcements and media releases.

Responds to complaints regarding fire code violations and fire hazards.

Issues warnings and citations for fire code violations.

Completes and maintains a variety of data and records pertaining to fire inspections and/or
prevention activities as required.

Attends and participates in regular department training in accordance to minimum standards;
achieves and maintains the minimum requirement for incident attendance in accordance to
minimum standards.

Be able to communicate using two-way communications systems Be able to communicate using two-way communications systems


Must have graduated high school or equivalent
formula set by the Police and Fire Commission
Be a member in good standing of the Altoona Fire Department
Must have at least five (5) years of service with the Altoona Fire Department
Have good written and verbal communications skills.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Must meet the minimum requirements for the position of Firefighter in addition to:

State of Wisconsin Firefighter level II certification
Certified Fire Inspector I*
FEMA IS-200: ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents*
Daytime availability (varied depending on individual schedules)
*Must be obtained within 18 months of appointment.

-Knowledge of modern fire prevention principals, procedures, techniques, and equipment; knowledge of
national, state, and local ordinances as they pertain to building, electrical, mechanical and fire codes;
knowledge of inspection techniques; working knowledge of fire suppression techniques and equipment.

-Must obtain and maintain membership of the Wisconsi

-Must keep current with the latest trends, industry standards and information; attend regular refresher -Must keep current with the latest trends, industry standards and information; attend regular refresher
training as they relate to fire prevention and fire inspections; must be familiar with any and all code
updates; attend bi-
whenever possible.

-Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; ability to use sound judgment and exercise
discretion in evaluating situations and in making decisions; ability to effectively give and receive verbal
and written instructions; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with members
of the public, other employees, supervisors, City officials, and members of other agencies.

-Must have a good geographic understanding of the City of Altoona and area of responsibility as well as
the surrounding area; must be able to read and use maps.

misdemeanor convictions, no pending misdemeanor or felony charges, no use or sale of illegal drugs.

-

-Ability to read and write the English language.
Lieutenant

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This position participates and supervises the activities of firefighters during firefighting assignments to
protect life, property, and the environment by performing fire suppression, rescue, emergency and non-
emergency aid, hazardous materials, and fire prevention duties.

Works under the general supervision of a Fire Captain.

Supervises firefighters and other subordinate positions as assigned.




Supervises subordinate personnel through the chain of command during all activities at the fire Supervises subordinate personnel through the chain of command during all activities at the fire
station, on scene, or any other time employees are on duty.

Responsible for supervisory duties assigned by superior officers. These duties include
instructing; maintaining standards; coordinating activities; allocating personnel; acting on
employee problems and complaints; and recommends and/or assists in implementing employee
discipline; Ensures subordinates comply with the Standard Operating Guidelines at all times.

Reviews the work of subordinates for completeness and accuracy; assists in evaluating employee
performance; offers advice and assistance as needed. Lieutenants complete the annual
performance evaluations of subordinates in their assigned squad.

ecial calls for
assistance from other agencies, to assist in the direction and performance of suppression,
hazardous materials incident response and rescue duties; directs the routes to be taken; and hazardous materials incident response and rescue duties; directs the routes to be taken; and
assumes command of all firefighting activities upon arrival, pending the arrival of a superior
officer.

Performs and supervises a fire crew during firefighting activities including laying hose, and
performing fire combat, containment, extinguishment, and water supply tasks.

Receives and responds to public inquires, complaints, and requests for assistance; develops and
implements an action plan to mitigate the current situation.

Performs and supervises rescue activities including removal of victims from hazardous locations
and extrication of victims from vehicles or other entrapment.

Supervises a fire crew in using power and hand tools to ventilate burning structures and perform
forcible entry.

Direct, supervise, and assist a fire crew in the positioning of, and climbs ladders to gain access to
upper levels of buildings or to assist individuals from a hazardous atmosphere or conditions.

Direct, participate in, and supervise crowd and traffic control at emergency scenes; assists with
salvage, overhaul, cleanup, and evacuation activities as necessary.

May drive and operate fire response vehicles in the absence of a competent firefighter.

Document and complete all necessary reports of all fire and other emergency incidents and
responses.

Supervises and assists the maintenance of fire apparatus, equipment, buildings and grounds; tests
fire hoses and ladders; maintains emergency response equipment in a constant state of readiness.

Conducts fire drills and tests fire hydrants when needed.

Prepares pre-fire plans for buildings; participates in fire prevention and fire safety education
activities.

Perform all administrative and operational duties assigned by superior officers.

Assume command of the fire station, equipment, and personnel during any activity in the
absence of a superior officer; perform and direct duties on behalf of the Fire Chief in the best
interest of public safety, the Department and the City of Altoona.

Attends and participates in regular department training, seminars, and meetings in accordance to
minimum standards.

minimum standards.

apparatus.

Be able to communicate using two-way communications systems. Be able to communicate using two-way communications systems.


Must ob
Must have at least three (3) years of service with the Altoona Fire Department

Must meet the minimum requirements for the position of Firefighter in addition to:
State of Wisconsin Firefighter level II certification State of Wisconsin Firefighter level II certification
Certified Fire Officer I*
FEMA IS-200: ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents*
FEMA IS-300: Intermediate Incident Command System*
FEMA IS-400: Advanced Incident Command System*


-Must possess a working knowledge of modern fire suppression and prevention principles, procedures,
techniques, and equipment; Working knowledge of applicable laws, ordinances, and Standard Operating
Guidelines.

-Ability to train and supervise subordinate personnel; Ability to communicate effectively orally and in -Ability to train and supervise subordinate personnel; Ability to communicate effectively orally and in
writing; Ability to use sound judgment in evaluating situations and in making decisions; Ability to
effectively give and receive verbal and written instructions; Ability to establish and maintain effective
working relationships with other employees, supervisors, City officials, and leaders of other agencies.


-Mu Blood borne Pathogen Plan.


Captain

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This position plans, organizes, and administers all operations of the fire department assigned and/or
delegated by the Assistant Fire Chief. This position participates and supervises the activities of
firefighters during firefighting activities to protect life, property, and the environment by performing fire
suppression, rescue, emergency and non-emergency aid, hazardous materials, and fire prevention duties.

Works under the general supervision of the Assistant Fire Chief.

Supervises subordinate fire officers, firefighters, and other positions as assigned.




Supervises subordinate officers and personnel through the chain of command during all activities
at the fire station, on scene, or any other time employees are on duty; supervisory duties include
instructing; maintaining standards; coordinating activities; allocating personnel; acting on
employee problems and complaints; and recommends and/or assists in implementing employee
discipline as assigned within the Department Standard Operating Guidelines and the Employee
Handbook.

A Captain assumes command of all administrative responsibilities of an assigned squad of fire
officers and firefighters within the chain of command of the Department; Assist in carrying out
orders, plans, or instructions from the Assistant Fire Chief.

Assumes the duties and responsibilities of the Assistant Fire Chief in his/her absence as directed
or assigned.

Reviews the work of subordinate fire officers for completeness and accuracy; assists in
evaluating employee performance; offers advice and assistance as needed. Ensure the completion
of the annual performance evaluations of subordinates in his/her assigned squad.

assistance from other agencies; May assume Incident Command from a subordinate officer if
requested or required;

Develop and coordinate plans of tactical objectives for rescue, fire suppression, containment,
water supply, strategy, and all other operations within the chain of command; Directs the work
and assignments of Lieutenants pending arrival of a chief officer.

Monitors activities of firefighters through subordinate officers in the strategies and tactics, laying
of hoselines, placing ladders, ventilation, rescue, salvage and overhaul operations, or any other
activity assigned.

Coordinates activities with other supervisors and/or other City departments and exchanges
information with officers in other fire departments, as directed or assigned.

Receives and responds to public inquires, complaints, and requests for assistance; develops and Receives and responds to public inquires, complaints, and requests for assistance; develops and
implements an action plan to mitigate the current situation.

Performs and supervises rescue activities including removal of victims from hazardous locations
and extrication of victims from vehicles or other entrapment.

Direct, participate in, and supervise crowd and traffic control at emergency scenes; assists with
salvage, overhaul, cleanup, and evacuation activities as necessary.


Document and complete all necessary reports of all fire and other emergency incidents and
responses.

Supervise the maintenance of fire apparatus, equipment, buildings and grounds; tests fire hoses
and ladders; maintains emergency response equipment in a constant state of readiness. and ladders; maintains emergency response equipment in a constant state of readiness.

Prepares pre-fire plans for buildings; participates in fire prevention and fire safety education
activities.

Perform all administrative and operational duties assigned by superior officers.

Ensures subordinates comply with the Standard Operating Guidelines at all times.

Assume command of the fire station, equipment, and personnel during any activity in the
absence of a superior officer; perform and direct duties on behalf of the Fire Chief in the best
interest of public safety, the Department and the City of Altoona.

minimum standards. minimum standards.

minimum standards.

apparatus.

Be able to communicate using two-way communications systems.



Must have at least five (5) years of service with the Altoona Fire Department Must have at least five (5) years of service with the Altoona Fire Department
Minimum of two (2) years experience as Lieutenant.

Must meet the minimum requirements for the position of Lieutenant in addition to:
Certified Fire Officer II*
Other leadership classes recognized by the U.S. Fire Administration*
(example: Company Tactical Operations, Leadership I, II, or III, etc.)


techniques, and equipment; Working knowledge of applicable laws, ordinances, and Standard Operating techniques, and equipment; Working knowledge of applicable laws, ordinances, and Standard Operating
Guidelines.

-Ability to train and supervise subordinate personnel; Ability to communicate effectively orally and in




Assistant Fire Chief

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This position assists the Fire Chief in all planning, organizing, directing, and administering all policies,
operations and activities of the Department and to perform all related technical, administrative, and
supervisory work as required.

Works under the general guidance and supervision of the Fire Chief.

Supervises all fire officers and firefighters, either directly or through subordinate fire officers. Supervises all fire officers and firefighters, either directly or through subordinate fire officers.




May act as Fire Chief during the absence of the Chief of Department, as assigned.

Assist in planning, organizing, and directing assigned programs and activities of the Department;
Review, evaluate, develop and implement policies and procedures for all Department operations. Review, evaluate, develop and implement policies and procedures for all Department operations.

Oversee administration of training at all levels to ensure safe and effective operations.

Assume command of the fire station, equipment, and personnel during any activity; perform and
direct duties on behalf of the Fire Chief in the best interest of public safety, the Department and
the City of Altoona.

and regulations and standards of safety; Ensures compliance of all Standard Operating
Guidelines and regulations of the Employee Handbook; assist the Fire Chief in implementing
employee discipline, as assigned.

Attends all relevant operational meetings to ensure Department representation; Participates in
any and all administrative meetings in the absence of the Fire Chief, or as assigned. any and all administrative meetings in the absence of the Fire Chief, or as assigned.

Responds to emergency calls as necessary; May assume incident command if requested or
required; Respond to mutual aid calls of service and act as a liaison between agencies in a
unified command system; Assume all administrative duties during an emergency in the absence
of the Fire Chief.

Receives and responds to public and news media inquires, concerns, complaints and requests for
assistance and conducts any and all follow up as necessary.


Ensures all necessary reports of all fire and other emergency incidents and responses are
completed and comply with standards.

minimum standards.

minimum standards.

Be able to communicate using two-way communications systems. Be able to communicate using two-way communications systems.

Performs general administrative clerical work as required, including but not limited to preparing
reports and records, copying and filing documents, entering and retrieving computer data, attend
meetings, answering the telephone, etc.

Must obtain and maintain
Must have at least ten (10) years of service with the Altoona Fire Department
Minimum of two (2) years experience as Captain. Minimum of two (2) years experience as Captain.

Must meet the minimum requirements for the position of Captain in addition to:
Certified Incident Safety Officer*
Minimum 30 hours of additional command level training and/or certificates of completion of
leadership classes recognized by the U.S. Fire Administration*
(example: Company Tactical Operations, Leadership I, II, or III, etc.)


techniques, and equipment; Working knowledge of applicable laws, ordinances, and Standard Operating
Guidelines. Guidelines.

-Ability to train and supervise subordinate personnel; Ability to communicate effectively orally and in



1-1-95 1-14-12 1 of 6
2-12 EMPLOYMENT UNIFORMS

PURPOSE
To establish a set of standards for the issuance and wearing of the Altoona Fire Department uniform to
facilitate the best possible public image while on-duty, and when conducting all other official facilitate the best possible public image while on-duty, and when conducting all other official
Department business. The intent of this guideline is to outline the appropriate uniform requirements for
all employees. All Department supervisory personnel are responsible for the enforcement of these
guidelines.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all employees of the City of Altoona Fire Department. There shall be no
variations to this policy without permission from the Fire Chief or designee.

GENERAL

All uniforms shall be kept clean, neat, and professional at all times. Each employee shall be
responsible for cleaning and general care of the uniform. If Department issued items are getting responsible for cleaning and general care of the uniform. If Department issued items are getting
worn or are in need of repairs or replacement, an officer should be notified ASAP.

All clothing and equipment furnished to employees shall remain property of the City of Altoona
and returned upon leaving the Department. Employees may be held liable for any items lost or
destroyed.

Uniforms shall only be worn for official Department functions while on duty, or when
representing the Department during fire prevention inspections or other public functions, or any
other time specified by the Fire Chief or designee.

There will be no additions, subtractions or alterations to the uniform without approval of the Fire
Chief or designee.

Uniform shirts shall not be worn in taverns/bars unless your presence is required by your duties.

Only the approved materials listed in this policy are allowed to be worn on the uniform. No extra
pins, patches, emblems, or insignias are allowed without prior approval of the Fire Chief.

The Fire Department issued badge and identification shall only be worn and used while on duty.
Any misuse of the badge, other identification, or any misrepresentation of such will be grounds
for immediate dismissal. This applies to all t-shirts, jackets, hats or any other clothing with the
Altoona Fire Department identification of any kind issued or purchased by the employee.

Explorers are not allowed to wear any apparel with the Department logo that could misidentify
them as anything other than an Explorer.

The Fire Chief, or designee, must approve BEFORE the Department name and/or logo is used in
or applied to any poster, billboard, fire prevention and/or public education materials, or clothing.

Only the clothing items listed above are considered the official uniform of the Altoona Fire
Department. Any clothing other than listed above, that has been approved to use the Department
logo and/or name, cannot be worn in replacement of or worn in addition to the official uniform
unless authorized by the Fire Chief or designee.

UNIFORMS DEFINED

There are three (3) types of uniforms that are used by the Altoona Fire Department.

-Class A uniform Formal dress uniform worn for formal events as ordered by the Fire Chief or
designee. The Class A uniform shall consist of the following items:

Dress uniform hat w/hat badge
o Navy blue Firefighter, Lieutenant, Captain
o White Assistant Chief, Chief of Department
Dress uniform coat (Navy blue in color-all ranks)
Dress uniform shirt-long sleeve
o Navy blue Firefighters
o Light blue Lieutenant, Captain
Uniform necktie with appropriate tie clasp or pin. Uniform necktie with appropriate tie clasp or pin.
Uniform pants EMS pants are NOT allowed
o Navy blue Firefighters, Lieutenant, Captain
o Black Assistant Chief, Chief of Department
Uniform dress shoes station/work boots are NOT allowed
Blue or black dress socks
Badge, nametag, appropriate collar pins/insignias
Honor Guard includes shoulder braid and white gloves

-Class B uniform Business or casual dress uniform worn for public education, events,
meetings or any other activity ordered by the Fire Chief or designee.

Dress uniform shirt-long sleeve or short sleeve Dress uniform shirt-long sleeve or short sleeve
o Navy blue Firefighters
Uniform pants EMS pants are not allowed (cargo pockets)
o Navy blue Firefighters, Lieutenant, Captain
o Black Assistant Chief, Chief of Department
Station/work shoes or duty boots
Blue or black dress socks
Badge, nametag, appropriate collar pins/insignias

-Class C uniform Casual duty uniform worn for duty details or station events as ordered by
the Fire Chief or designee.

Short or long sleeve shirt, sweatshirt, or job/work shirt or polo shirt
Shirt shall have the Department logo sewn, silkscreened, or embroidered on left chest.
Altoona Fire/Rescue
Uniform pants EMS pants are optional (cargo pockets)
Station/work shoes or duty boots

Department Issued Items
The Department shall issue the following items: The Department shall issue the following items:
Badge appropriate to rank
Uniform shirt color appropriate to rank
Department and American flag patches
Collar pin/insignia appropriate to rank

Non-Issued Required Items
Nametag color and style appropriate to rank
Shoes dress shoes or station/duty boots appropriate to style of uniform worn
Uniform belt
Uniform socks
Employees are expected to provide the above items from only Department approved vendors.

Non-Issued Optional Items Non-Issued Optional Items
Dress uniform hat w/ hat badge
Dress uniform coat w/insignias
Uniform necktie
Gloves Honor Guard only
Shoulder braid Honor Guard only
The above items are to be purchased only from Department approved vendors.

REQUIREMENTS

Badges
Only the Department issued badge will be worn unless approved by the Fire Chief or designee.
Color appropriate to rank Color appropriate to rank
o Silver Firefighter, Lieutenant, Captain
o Gold Assistant Fire Chief, Chief of Department
Shall be worn above the left pocket of the Class B uniform and over the left chest of the Class A
uniform. Hat badges will be worn on the front of the hat.
Shall not be used or displayed in any other capacity other than official Department business.
Shall only be worn on the dress uniform shirt.
Employees are not allowed to carry a badge in their wallet or by any other means without prior
approval of the Fire Chief or designee.
Employees are not allowed to purchase their own badges without approval of the Fire Chief.
Patches
Only the Department issued patch will be worn unless approved by the Fire Chief or designee.
The Fire Department patch should be sewn on the left shoulder inch from the top of the
shoulder seam and centered from front to back.
An American Flag shall be worn on the right shoulder inch below the shoulder seam and
centered from front to back. The proper flag orientation shall be the blue field of stars shall be in
the upper right corner, or as if the flag is being carried.
The Department and American flag patches shall be worn on the Class A & B uniforms.
No other patches can be sewn onto the uniform without approval of the Fire Chief or designee.

Collar Pins
Only Department issued collar pins will be worn unless approved by the Fire Chief or designee. Only Department issued collar pins will be worn unless approved by the Fire Chief or designee.
Appropriate rank insignia is to be on the front edges of the collar, at a right angle to the bottom
of the collar.
Single and double bugles are to be worn at a 45 degree angle to the bottom of the collar with the
wide end of the bugles pointing down towards the point of the collar.
(See APPENDIX-Figure D UNIFORM DIAGRAM)

The collar pin rank insignia of the Department is as follows:
Fire Chief - 5 gold bugles (scramble)
Assistant Fire Chief - 4 gold bugles (scramble)
Captain - 2 silver bulges (not crossed)
Lieutenant - 1 silver bugle
Fire Inspector - Fire Inspector insignia
Firefighter - No collar insignia

Nametag
Only the Department issued nametag will be worn unless approved by the Fire Chief or designee.
Nametag size of 3/8 inch height x 2.25 inch length.
Color should be appropriate to rank:
- Gold Chief, Assistant Fire Chief
- Silver Staff Officers, Firefighters
in black lettering.
Nametag shall be worn centered at the top of the right pocket on the Class B uniform and over
the right chest on the Class A uniform.

Uniform shirt
Uniform shirts shall be one solid color throughout, standard pocket style, cotton/polyester blend.
Only the Department approved uniform shirt shall be worn unless approved by the Fire Chief.
Additional shirts may be purchased a must be purchased
from a Department approved vendor and comply with this policy.
Uniform shirts must be kept clean and free of tears, stains and must not be faded.
Shirt tails shall be tucked in at all times.
All buttons shall be fastened except for the collar button unless a necktie is worn.
Shirt color shall be in accordance to rank:
o White Chief of Department, Assistant Fire Chief
o Navy blue - Firefighters

Ties
Shall be black in color regardless of rank.
Shall be worn with the Class A uniform.
Can be an option with the white uniform shirt (Chiefs only) for special meetings, public affairs,
media interviews, or special functions.
Tie pin/clasps are optional however should not distract from the uniform. Wearing of a tie
clasp/pin is subject to the discretion of the ranking or senior officer in charge.

Undershirts
Shall be white in color and worn with all uniforms. No other colors are allowed.
Shall not be visible outside the uniform shirt except at the collar. Shall not be visible outside the uniform shirt except at the collar.
The sleeves of the undershirt must not be lower than the uniform shirt sleeves.
No patterns or colors shall be visible through the uniform shirt or at the collar area.
The collar of the undershirt shall not be stained, faded or stretched out.

T-shirts/sweatshirts/duty shirts
T-shirts/sweatshirts/duty shirts shall be purchased at the employee
The shirt shall be navy blue in color with the Department patch heat transferred to the front left
Altoona Fire Rescue
The shirt may be worn during calls for service for identification and scheduled
trainings/meetings.
T-
and must comply with this policy.
T-shirts/sweatshirts may be worn with the uniform pants as the Class C uniform, or in-station T-shirts/sweatshirts may be worn with the uniform pants as the Class C uniform, or in-station
uniform, for casual dress for certain activities that do not require the dress uniform shirt.

Polo Shirts
Polo shirts s expense from the Department approved vendor.
The polo shirts may be worn in the same manner as the T-shirt/sweatshirt/duty shirt policy as
listed above.
The shirts shall be navy blue in color for Firefighter, Lieutenant & Captain ranks and can be
white in color for Assistant Chief and Chief of Department.

Uniform Pants
Pants color shall be appropriate to rank.
-Navy blue Firefighter, Lieutenant, Captain -Navy blue Firefighter, Lieutenant, Captain
-Black Assistant Chief, Chief of Department
Dress uniform pants shall be worn with Class A and B uniforms. Jeans are not acceptable.
EMS pants with cargo pockets are optional for the Class C uniform and must comply with this
policy.
Pants must be kept neat and free of holes or tears and cannot be in disrepair.
Pant cuff must hang over the top of the shoes when standing.

Shoes
Department approved vendor and must
comply with this policy.
Shoes should be solid black in color and not be lower than the pants cuff.
Formal dress shoes are required for Class A uniforms, station/duty boots can be worn for Class B
& C uniforms.
Black socks are required.

Belts
Belts are optional.
If a belt is worn it must be black in color and the belt buckle must comply with the color If a belt is worn it must be black in color and the belt buckle must comply with the color
appropriate to rank. (silver or gold in color)
The belt buckle must not be bigger than the belt itself or distract from the uniform. Wearing a
belt buckle will be at the discretion of the ranking or senior officer in charge.

Uniform Jackets
Uniform jackets may be purchased at t
vendor.
Uniform jackets must be navy blue in color for all ranks.
A Department patch and an American flag will be sewn on the shoulders in compliance with the
listing above.
The Department issued badge will be worn in compliance with the listing above.
The Department issued name tag will be worn in compliance with the listing above
Metal buttons and snap color shall be appropriate to rank: Metal buttons and snap color shall be appropriate to rank:
o Gold Assistant Chief, Chief of Department
o Silver Firefighter, Lieutenant, Captain
No other pins, patches, insignias or labels are allowed unless approved by the Fire Chief.

9-1-11 9-1-11 1 of 9
2-13 EMPLOYMENT Special Administrative FIREFIGHTER LINE OF DUTY DEATH

PURPOSE
There is no other single event that is as powerful or significant to a department or community as a
firefighter line-of-duty death. The death of a fellow firefighter presents a very difficult time for the firefighter line-of-duty death. The death of a fellow firefighter presents a very difficult time for the
any details and arrangements
need to be addressed in a very short period of time. Planning is critical to successfully handle a line-of-
duty death. Of course no one wishes for a line-of-duty-death, however having procedures in place will
make it much easier for everyone involved in this time of crisis. This guideline is intended to assist the
Altoona Fire Department in providing consistency within the Department in assisting the family and to
pay final respects and honors of the fallen firefighter.

SCOPE
This policy shall apply to all current firefighters and retired firefighters of the City of Altoona Fire
Department. Defined in this guideline are different levels of honor guard and optional burial rights with
options and variations that are available.

DEFINITIONS

Line-of-Duty Death (LODD) The death of any member of the Altoona Fire Department while on duty,
or while undergoing medical treatment for any injury or disease resulting from such duty, is consider a
line-of-duty death.

Serious/life-threatening injury Any injury sustained in the line-of-duty which is, or may become life-
threatening or will disable the member for a substantial period.

GUIDELINE

Personal Information Packet
Only the Emergency Contact Form of this packet is mandatory. Employees must have a list of contacts
on file in the event of an emergency or an on duty injury. If this should happen, the Fire Chief or senior on file in the event of an emergency or an on duty injury. If this should happen, the Fire Chief or senior
Fire Officer of the Department shall notify the contacts listed in order of the situation. This list should
be reviewed annually, or updated when information changes, to keep the most current information on
file.

The rest of the packet is optional, however highly recommended. The information provided to the
Department will be of extreme comfort to the family, and this agency,
wishes in case of a line of duty serious injury or death.

The following requirements shall apply to all employees:

1. Each employee shall complete a Personal Information Packet. This packet is to be on file
for the duration of his/her employment.

2. The completed packet shall be placed in an envelope and sealed. The outside of the
envelope shall have the following information:
a.
b. Employee name and payroll number
c. Date of last revision

3. This information shall be reviewed annually and can be updated at any time by the 3. This information shall be reviewed annually and can be updated at any time by the
employee. The information the employee provides in this packet will be viewed and used
ONLY in the event of a serious injury or death in the line of duty.

4. The envelope s personnel file in the office of the Fire
Chief. This information will only be accessible to the Fire Chief and if necessary, the
appropriate Department officers.

Firefighter Line of Duty Death
This policy is to be a guideline in the event of a line of duty death of a firefighter. Personnel on scene
should use this guideline to ensure the proper handling of the incident and notifications required.

Initial Responsibilities on scene of a LODD:

The Incident Commander on scene shall ensure the following:

1. Immediately upon becoming aware that a firefighter has been seriously injured, the Incident
Commander shall ensure that the necessary means of assistance are provided. The scene shall be
secured as to prevent any further injuries or loss of life and a Personnel Accountability Report shall
be obtained as soon as possible.

2. On scene firefighting and/or rescue efforts must continue to mitigate the situation. Additional mutual
aid companies may be needed to relieve all Altoona firefighters and others on the scene due to the
high stress of the situation. A chaplain and/or crisis response personnel should be considered and
called to the scene to assist with the emotions and stress of personnel working the scene.

3. The IC shall notify the Fire Chief and the Altoona Police Department to initiate the death 3. The IC shall notify the Fire Chief and the Altoona Police Department to initiate the death

4. If it has been determined that a firefighter has been killed, if at all possible, the area where the death
not been transported to the hospital due to resuscitation efforts, the Medical Examiner needs to be
notified to report to the scene.

5. Recover and secure all personnel protective equipment from the fallen firefighter(s) in the original
state as found as much as possible. Consider these items evidence until further notice.

6. call sign/identification, or crew
assignment be broadcast over the radio. Radio discretion should be top priority!! Several media
outlets are listening (not to mention family and friends of firefighters) and will report anything they
hear which could be misinterpreted and publicly broadcasted as false information.

7. No one is allowed to make phone calls from the scene concerning the LODD without authorization
/spouse informing them they are ok is permitted with
the prior approval of the IC or officer in charge however details of the incident shall not be
discussed
if they are contacted by someone until notifications has taken place.

8. Only the Fire Chief or designee shall release information to the news media. All public and news 8. Only the Fire Chief or designee shall release information to the news media. All public and news
media shall be kept out of the area.

Notification of City Officials
Upon the death of an employee while on duty, the Incident Commander shall immediately notify:

1. The Fire Chief, or designee.
2. The Fire Chief, or designee, shall notify:
a. City Administrator
b. Mayor.

Family Notifications Family Notifications
It is essential that family notification occurs as soon as possible. The worst possible scenario is the
family being notified of the death of a loved one through unofficial means. This creates unnecessary
stress to an already stressful situation and may strain the family relationship with the Department.

at the time of a
LODD. Once positive identification of the deceased firefighter has been made, and City Officials have
be notified in case of an emergency.

1. The Fire Chief
that is required
for each employee to fill out upon employment.

2. If the employee has listed special instructions, these instructions shall be followed
funeral arrangements & final wishes.

3. The Fire Chief and/or designee will contact the persons requested by the deceased
firefighter to assist in notifying the family. The notification team should be assembled as
quickly as possible.

4.
officer in charge shall determine if the team can wait for all to assemble. Time is critical!!
It will be very hard for the notification team to get to the family before they see or hear of

Other Notifications

1.
A Public Information Officer (PIO) should be established to deal with the media and should
remain the PIO throughout the event.

2. Only after the family has been notified and all family requests have been completed, the Fire
Chief may issue a media release of the following information:
a. e
b. Rank
c. Company and/or assignment
d. Date of birth, dates of starting employment, & dates of promotion (if appropriate)
e. Brief summary ending with e. Brief summary ending with

f. At no time will personal contact information of the family be released.

3. Fire department and law enforcement leaders from around the area should be notified for
possible additional support with any part of the planning process or to respond to calls during the
funeral ceremony.

4. The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation has established a Local Assistance State Teams
(LAST) to assist the Department and the families of a LODD. Upon notification from the
Department, these teams will be deployed to assist with all aspects from helping with
arrangements for a fire department funeral with full honors to providing emotional support for
the family and Department members or filing for Federal, State, and local benefits. The team
may be requested by survivors as needed.

1-866-736-5868 1-866-736-5868

5. The Eau Claire Communications Center shall be notified to broadcast a statewide teletype of the

Responsibilities of the Department Liaison (DL)
may include any or all of the following:

The desires of the family shall be paramount. They shall be given the fullest respect and be
carried out by any means necessary in order to realize these wishes. The DL must be available 24
hours to the family prior to and throughout the funeral.

Assist the family in dealing with media inquiries.

The DL shall contact the family of the deceased member and, in coordination with the funeral
Fire Chief l.
He/she shall assist the family in any way for any issue or detail. The DL shall offer the

1. A formal funeral, at home, funeral home, church or cemetery, involving the use of an engine,
active pallbearers, honorary pallbearers and Funeral Detail, color guard, bugler and bag
pipes. (This type of honor shall be reserved for those members killed in the line of duty.)

2. A semi-formal funeral, at home, funeral home, church or cemetery, involving the use of an
engine, active pallbearers, honorary pallbearers and Funeral Detail.

3. A non-formal funeral, at home, funeral home, church or cemetery, or there being no fire
department involvement other than members attending in a passive roll either in the viewing
and/or funeral service.

4.
have no outsider participation at the funeral.

NOTE: With the exception of those honors reserved for members killed in the line of duty, NOTE: With the exception of those honors reserved for members killed in the line of duty,
any or all of the

The DL shall be in continual communication with the Funeral Fire Chief as he/she arranges for

Coordination of travel for family members from out of the area.

Assist with coordination of benefits.

The DL shall coordinate all the special arrangements for a formal funeral:
1. Arrange for an Honor Guard to stand duty during the viewing, minimum of four (4).
2. Arrange for Active Pallbearers: six (6) plus an officer.
3. Arrange for necessary equipment 3. Arrange for necessary equipment
4. Arrange for Honorary Pallbearers (Family, Company Officers, Retirees, etc.)
5. Arrange for Funeral Detail. (All uniformed personnel in attendance)
6. Arrange for bugler, bag pipes, and drum corps for marching procession.
7. Arrange for Color Guard
8. Obtain American Flag for casket. (Funeral Fire Chief secures flags for Veterans only)
9. Provide all members of the Department with information necessary to carry out their roles in
the funeral.
10. Survey the area of the funeral and make provisions for placement of all attending units and
provide information for map preparation, if necessary.
11. Designate an area of assembly for attending Chief Officers and dignitaries.
12. Designate an area of assembly for all other Department members and visiting firefighters.
13. Make sure all uniformed personnel have a black mourning band on their badge and if not,
provide them.
14. Prepare designated engine with flowers and black bunting if desired. Arrange for all the hose 14. Prepare designated engine with flowers and black bunting if desired. Arrange for all the hose
to be stripped off for use in transport of the casket.
15. Arrange the proper placement of all vehicles that will participate in the funeral procession.
16. Contact law enforcement to arrange traffic control for procession and parking for funeral.
17. Arrange a Department Photographer to cover the funeral.
18. Make necessary media arrangements for during the funeral service, if allowed by family.
-At the church where are cameras allowed and what is off limits.
-Funeral Home where cameras are allowed and what is off limits.
-Cemetery General photo coverage, established limits.
LODD Checklist

____ Notification of Department Chief Officers
____ Radio Discipline Policy
____ Scene Security
____ Notification of local law enforcement agency
____ Firefighters Personal Information Packet Referenced
____ Notification Team Established
____ Notification Team - Verification of Information (Facts Only)

Notify the following:
____ Family
____ Fire Department Members
____ Local Officials
____ Neighboring Departments
____ Wisconsin State Fire Chiefs Association
____ Order Flags Half-Mast
____ Form LODD Investigation Team
____ Secure firefighters PPE (turnouts, helmet, boots, gloves, SCBA,
PASS Devices, wildland clothing, etc.)
____ Contact County Medical Examiner (Autopsy Protocols) ____ Contact County Medical Examiner (Autopsy Protocols)
____ Copies of Death Certificate (Minimum of 6)

Contact Support Agencies:
____ CISD Team
____
____ Public Safety Officers Benefit Program
____ USFA / National Fallen Firefighter Foundation

LODD Staff Assignments
____ Funeral Coordinator
____ Family Liaison Officer
____ Church Coordinator
____ Procession Coordinator
____ Cemetery Coordinator
____ Public Information Officer
____ Prepared Media Release (Only the Facts)
____ LODD Supply Kit (mourning bands, gloves, bunting, bell, flag, etc.)
The following is a suggested funeral services protocol for deceased firefighters

Funeral Considerations

Decisions regarding the funeral are the responsibility of the family and what the firefighter has listed in
the Personal Information Packet. However, consid
traditions and fire service traditions.

The honors and support provided by the fire department may be affected by circumstances surrounding The honors and support provided by the fire department may be affected by circumstances surrounding
the death, established Department protocols and the classification (type) of death.

Classifications:

Type I Death occurs as a result of an on-duty incident or is job related.

Type II Death occurs when an active firefighter is off-duty and not relating to any emergency duties.

Type III Death pertains to a retiree of the Department.

Guidelines for the Funeral/Memorial Service

Type I Service On Duty

All members will wear a black band over their badges from the time the death is announced until 24
hours after the finish of service. The department may choose to have the shroud remain on the badge for
thirty day mourning period.

All department flags will fly at half-staff from the time of the death is announced until at least 24 hours
after finish of service, and up to one week after death.

All regular uniformed personnel will remain covered while outdoors, except during prayers, and
uncovered indoors.

All Honor Guard members will be covered at all times during the performance of their duties.

Seating will be reserved as such that the family is nearest the casket followed by the Pallbearers, the
department officers, descending in rank, followed by all other members of the home department.
Following that will be all visiting uniformed firefighters, from the longest distance traveled to the least
traveled. The City Mayor, Councilmen, and other dignitaries (from local to most broad (i.e. Federal),
will be seated either to the side of all firefighters, or directly behind the home department.
Upon conclusion of the service, all personnel starting with the Pallbearers, and going further from the
casket, will file out, being the first to leave, to assemble outside in preparation of the passing of the
casket.

The casket will precede the family filing through the assembled firefighters to the Fire Apparatus or
Funeral Coach of choice.

Directly behind the casket as it exits the chapel/church will be the immediate family, followed by
extended family and all other attendees.

The Pallbearers will then place the casket on the appropriate apparatus, or in the funeral coach, if
chosen. chosen.

Type II Service Off Duty

All members will wear a black band over their badges from the time the death is announced until 24
hours after finish of service, and up to one week after death.

All department flags will fly at half-staff from the time of the death is announced until at least 24 hours
after finish of service, and up to one week after death.

All regular uniformed personnel will remain covered while outdoors, except during prayers, and
uncovered indoors. uncovered indoors.

Seating will be reserved as such that the family is nearest the casket followed by the Pallbearers, any
department officers who wish to attend, followed by all other members of the department. Following
that will be any visiting uniformed firefighters. Any dignitaries will be seated either to the side of all
firefighters, or directly behind them.

Upon conclusion of the service, all personnel starting with the Pallbearers, and going further from the
casket, will file out, being the first to leave, to assemble outside in preparation of the passing of the
casket.

The casket will precede the family filing through the assembled firefighters to the Funeral Coach.

extended family and all other attendees. extended family and all other attendees.

The Pallbearers will then place the casket in the funeral coach.

Type III Service Retiree Death

All members may wear a black band over their badges from the time the death is announced until 24
hours after finish of service.

All uniformed personnel at the service will remain covered while outdoors, except during prayers, and
uncovered indoors.

All Honor Guard members will be covered at all times during the performance of their duties.
Seating will be reserved as such that the family is nearest the casket followed by the Pallbearers,
department officers, all other members of the home department, all visiting uniformed firefighters, and
any applicable dignitaries.

Upon conclusion of the service, all personnel, starting with the Pallbearers, and going further from the
casket, will file out, being the first to leave, assembling outside in preparation of the passing of the
casket. casket.

The casket will precede the family filing through the assembled firefighters to the Funeral Coach.

extended family and all other attendees.

The Pallbearers will then place the casket in the funeral coach.

Suggested Services for Funeral Types
Listed below are the different types of situations and suggested services which may be offered to the
family. The Family Liason Officer should coordinate the arrangements with the family. The most
important item in any situation is that prior approval of any and all funeral services must be given by the important item in any situation is that prior approval of any and all funeral services must be given by the
family of the deceased. Under no circumstances should assumptions be made.

Suggested Options

OPTION TYPE I TYPE II TYPE III
American Flag Presentation X X X
Badge Shrouds X X X
Bagpipers/Drum Corps X Optional Optional
Bell Service X X X
Bugler X
Color Guard X
Crossed Ladders X
Eulogies X X X Eulogies X X X
Fire Engine Caisson X
Fire Service Flags X X X
Flower Unit X X
Honor Guards X X X
Honor Detail X X
Active Member Pallbearers X X X
Station Bunting X X Optional
Vehicle Bunting X
Walk Through X X X


1-14-12 1-14-12 1 of 7
2-14 EMPLOYMENT RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM

PURPOSE
The Altoona Fire Department recognizes that occupational respiratory hazards may exist during routine
and emergency operations. These hazards can be in the form of harmful dusts, fogs, mists, vapors, and emergency operations. These hazards can be in the form of harmful dusts, fogs, mists, vapors,
fumes, gases, smoke, and airborne diseases. In some cases these hazards may represent an Immediately
Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) condition.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all Department employees while on duty working in or near an IDLH
atmosphere, or any other time the Incident Commander, Incident Safety Officer, fire officer, crew chief
or designee determines respiratory protection is required.

GUIDELINE
The goal is to utilize any or all of the following to ensure proper respiratory protection throughout an
incident.

Engineering controls.
Administrative controls.
Respirators.

Engineering controls, such as forced ventilation can be utilized to remove the contaminated air from the
work area; however, engineering controls are not always feasible for some of our operations.

Administrative controls are to
accurate monitoring of exposure levels.

In situations where engineering controls have not completely controlled the identified hazards, or the
administrative controls do not sufficiently reduce exposure levels; respirators and other protective
equipment must be used.

DEFINITIONS

Breathing Air Compressor: (BAC) Breathing air compressor system utilized to fill
breathing air cascade bottles and cylinders.

Fit Test: To qualitatively or quantitatively evaluate the fit of a respirator on an individual
with the same make, model, style and size respirator that will be used.

High Efficiency Particulate Air: (HEPA) filter, which is at least 99.97% efficient in
removing mono-disperse particles of 0.3 micrometers in diameter.
Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health: (IDLH), An atmosphere concentration of any
toxic, corrosive or asphyxiates substance that poses an immediate threat to life or would
cause irreversible or delayed adverse health effects or would interfere with an
pe from a dangerous atmosphere.

Inhalation: The introduction of a chemical or toxic products of combustion into the body
by way of the respiratory system.

Oxygen Deficient Atmosphere: An Atmosphere that contains oxygen content less than
19.5% by volume.

Qualitative Fit Test: (QLFT), checks leakage in the respirator through the use of nontoxic Qualitative Fit Test: (QLFT), checks leakage in the respirator through the use of nontoxic

Quantitative Fit Test: (QNFT), uses instrumentation to test the fit of the respirator.

Respiratory Protection: Equipment designed to protect the wearer from the inhalation of
contaminants. Respiratory protection includes positive pressure self-contained breathing
apparatus (SCBA), positive pressure airline respirators (SARs), and air purifying
respirators.

Supplied-Air Respirator: (SAR; also called airline respirator). Positive pressure
respirator that is supplied air through an airline hose from breathing air cylinders.

Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus: (SCBA). A positive pressure atmosphere-
supplying respirator in which the breathing air source is carried by the user.

Tuberculosis: TB, a lung infection spread by aerosolized droplets in the air, usually the
result of coughing and sneezing.

GENERAL USE PROCEDURES

A firefighter shall not wear a beard or have facial hair that comes in contact with a facepiece seal

(See figure for acceptable facialhair)

If a firefighter wears glasses, the firefighter shall use frames that do not pass through the seal
area of the facepiece.

Department personnel shall only use respiratory protection equipment issued, or otherwise
approved by the Department.

Firefighters using SCBA shall operate in teams of 2 of more members who are:

1. In communication with each other through visual, audible, physical, safety guide rope,
electronic or other means to coordinate their activities; and
2. In close enough proximity to each other to be able to provide assistance in case of an
emergency.
RESPONSIBILITIES

Employee Responsibilities

All employees have the responsibility to learn and follow this guideline.

It shall be the responsibility of each individual employee to wear or use the proper personal
protective equipment (PPE) and clothing when and where it is appropriate to do so while on-
duty. On-duty is defined as any time an employee is doing normal duties such as responding to
calls, doing maintenance, public education, training, public service, or any other official
Department business; or when the employee is acting in any other official capacity of the City of
Altoona Fire Department. Altoona Fire Department.

The individual employee shall keep this equipment in good working order and be ready for
immediate use at all times.

Each firefighter is responsible for cleaning and disinfecting his/her own personal issued
face piece.

The employee shall notify a superior as soon as possible if the equipment, either issued or
supplied, is missing, broken, worn out, expired, in disrepair, or otherwise not working properly
for repair or replacement.

Each employee is responsible to make sure the protective equipment or clothing is worn/used in
guidelines. A failure to not wear/use the equipment properly could result in injury or even death.

Department Responsibilities

It shall be the responsibility of the City to provide employees who work in dangerous
environments with personal protective equipment.

Assure that an effective fit testing program is in place and fit testing is conducted a minimum of
once a year for all firefighters whose responsibilities require them to wear SCBAs and/or SARs.

Provide training that is understandable to personnel who are required to wear respiratory
protection.

The Department shall furnish its personnel with the appropriate level of respiratory
protection equipment to meet the anticipated respiratory hazard: protection equipment to meet the anticipated respiratory hazard:

1. Provide self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or Supplied Air Respirator (SAR)
and require firefighters to use that apparatus in any area where the atmosphere is
hazardous, is suspected of being hazardous or may become hazardous.

2. Provide all firefighters working below ground level or inside any confined space with SCBA
or SAR and require them to use that apparatus unless the safety of the atmosphere can be
established by testing and continuous monitoring.

3. Adopt and maintain a respiratory protection program in compliance with Comm 32.

4. Assure that all sources of compressed gaseous breathing air, such as compressors, used for
filling SCBAs are tested to assure their compliance with air standards.

5. Hydrostatically test each breathing air cylinder/tank within the time limits specified by the
manufacturer of the apparatus and by federal, state or local agency with jurisdiction over the
possession and use of the apparatus.

6. For protection against TB, H1N1, or other airborne pathogens, the Department shall provide
a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter, an N-95 respirator mask or other approved
respirator device and requires personnel to use these items to help minimize significant
exposure to TB and other airborne diseases when responding to and caring for patients with exposure to TB and other airborne diseases when responding to and caring for patients with
suspected or known airborne diseases.

COMPLIANCE

ALL SCBA placed into service after April 1, 1991, shall meet NFPA 1981 and shall be of the positive
pressure type only.

1. All SCBAs and SARs must be certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health (NISOH) and shall be used in accordance with the terms of that certification.

2. All supply air tanks for SCBAs and SARs (not including reserve escape air supply tanks)
shall have a minimum NIOSH Service Life Rating of 30 minutes.

3. Compressed breathing air in a self-contained breathing apparatus cylinder or a supplied air 3. Compressed breathing air in a self-contained breathing apparatus cylinder or a supplied air
respirator cylinder shall meet at least the requirements for Grade D breathing air described in
ANSI/Compressed Gas Association Commodity Specification for Air, G-7.1-1989

4. Compressed air cylinders must be hydrostatically tested in accordance with NFPA
regulations by a qualified contractor. (NFPA 1852-25 Annex C.2.2)

Every five (5) years for aluminum and steel bottles, for an unlimited lifetime for as
long as the bottle is able to pass the test.

Every five (5) years for composite bottles manufactured AFTER 1-1-01, for a
maximum lifetime of fifteen (15) years from original test date.

Every three (3) years for composite bottles manufactured BEFORE 1-1-01, for a
maximum lifetime of fifteen (15) years from original test date. maximum lifetime of fifteen (15) years from original test date.

FIT TESTING

A qualitative fit test shall be used to determine the ability of each employee to obtain a satisfactory fit
with a negative pressure respirator. These tests should be done annually according to 29 CFR 1910.134
and records of these tests shall be kept on file. The Fire Chief has responsibility to enforce the facial hair
policy as it relates to the use of the respirator. If an employee has corrective lenses, glasses, or goggles,
it shall be worn in such a manner that it does not interfere with the seal of the face piece to the face of
the user. An option is Department supplied prescription lenses in a spectacle kit to fit inside the face
piece.

Each new member shall be fit tested before being permitted to use SCBA or SAR in a hazardous
atmosphere.

Only members with a properly fitting SCBA or SAR facepiece shall be permitted to function in
any area where the atmosphere is hazardous, is suspected of being hazardous or may become
hazardous.

The facepiece seal capability of each member qualified to use SCBA and/or SAR shall be
verified by qualitative or quantitative fit testing on an annual basis and: verified by qualitative or quantitative fit testing on an annual basis and:

1. Upon request.

2.
respiratory fit (e.g. body weight, facial features, etc.)

3. Anytime new types of SCBA or SARs are issued.

Personnel will be fit tested with the same make, model, style and size of respirator that they will
use in performing their assigned duties. Qualitative Fit Testing (QLFT) and Quantitative Fit
Testing (QNFT) procedures shall comply with OSHA 1910.134

TRAINING

Training shall be provided a minimum of once a year to personnel who are required to
wear respiratory protection.

Respiratory protection training shall be provided to all personnel prior to being assigned
duties that require respiratory protection.

Retraining shall be provided anytime:

1. A new make, model, style, size or type of respirator is issued.

2. A need has been identified to ensure safe respirator use.

3. Respiratory training shall be considered effective when personnel can
demonstrate knowledge of: demonstrate knowledge of:
o Why the respiratory protection is needed
o Limitations and capabilities of the respirator
o How to inspect, don, check the seals, and doff the respirator
o Use of respirator in emergency situations
o Maintenance and storage procedures
o Reporting damaged or defective respiratory equipment
o Familiarity with the Department Respiratory Protection Program
MAINTENANCE

Complete maintenance and repair records for each self-contained breathing apparatus and all air
cylinders must be kept in accordance with the requirements of NFPA regulations.

Each SCBA and bottle shall be cleaned and inspected after each use.

A maintenance card shall be filled out with information on who used it and inspected it.

SCBA and SAR face pieces shall be cleaned after each use as well as inspected for defects.

Any defective or damaged equipment shall be reported, tagged and removed from service until Any defective or damaged equipment shall be reported, tagged and removed from service until
repaired or replaced.

Replacement or repairs shall be done only by experienced persons with parts designed for the
respirator.

HEPA masks shall be replaced after each use.

This respiratory protection program will be reviewed periodically to ensure it is effective and
properly implemented.

STORAGE

All respirators shall be stored to protect against dust, sunlight, temperature extreme, excessive All respirators shall be stored to protect against dust, sunlight, temperature extreme, excessive
moisture, and damage from chemicals. They shall be packed or stored to prevent deformation of
the facepiece.

Each firefighter shall be responsible for insuring the personal face piece issued to them is stored
properly. HEPA masks shall be stored in a plastic bag or plastic container as not to cause
d

RECORD KEEPING

Fit Test Records shall be retained for respirator users until the next fit test is administered. The
record will indicate name of person tested, make of mask, model, style and size, type of fit test,
pass/fail results, and test date.

Records shall be kept on individuals not qualified to wear respirators in their personnel files only Records shall be kept on individuals not qualified to wear respirators in their personnel files only
to the extent that the individual is not respirator qualified.

All maintenance performed on breathing apparatus shall be documented and retained for the
length the breathing apparatus is in service. Reoccurring maintenance problems shall be
investigated and documented.

All hydrostatic test records of breathing apparatus cylinders shall be retained for the length the
cylinder is in service.

All maintenance performed on breathing air compressors owned by the Department will be
retained for the length the BAC is in service. Results from all breathing air analysis performed
on BACs will be retained for the length the BAC is in service.

MEDICAL EVALUATION QUESTIONNAIRE

Each respiratory user shall complete the medical evaluation questionnaire in accordance with 29 CFR
1910. This written should be administered annually and done on a confidential basis. The Fire Chief will

The recommendations shall include: The recommendations shall include:
Any limitations on respirator use related to the medical condition of the employee or relating to
the workplace conditions in which the respirator will be used, including whether or not the
employee is medically able to use the respirator.

If needed, any follow up medical evaluations.

A statement that the physician has provided the employee with
recommendation.

Only approved respirators shall be used. Any modifications that are not authorized by the Fire Chief
voids the approval.

FACIAL HAIR

-contained breathing apparatus face pieces have been tested and proven
that it is impossible to maintain a satisfactory seal on a person with facial hair (NFPA 1500 & OSHA
1910). The face shall be kept clean-shaven in accordance with NFPA regulations and section 1-7, Facial
Hair & Personal Hygiene, of the Altoona Fire Department Standard Operating Guidelines.

Figure A:
Firefighter Facial Hair Policy for
SCBA use within the Altoona Fire Department


1-1-95 1-14-12 1 of 3
3-1 VEHICLES & EQUIPMENT PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

PURPOSE
To establish a guideline for the proper use and care of Department owned personal protective equipment
and/or clothing to comply with National Standards and organizations (NFPA, OSHA, etc.), State and/or clothing to comply with National Standards and organizations (NFPA, OSHA, etc.), State
Statutes, and applicable County and City ordinances.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all employees of the City of Altoona Fire Department whenever they are
working or considered on duty for the Department.

GUIDELINE

It is the policy of this Department to:
suspected diagnoses of communicable disease in any patient.

lly infectious. Universal precautions will be observed at all times
and will be expanded to include all body fluids and other potentially infectious material (body substance
isolation).

d personal protective equipment
(PPE) needed for protection from communicable diseases in compliance with NFPA 1581.

concerns.

ical incident stress debriefing (CISD)
programs.

Responsibilities
It shall be the responsibility of each individual employee to wear or use the proper personal protective It shall be the responsibility of each individual employee to wear or use the proper personal protective
equipment (PPE) and clothing when and where it is appropriate to do so while on duty. On duty is
defined as anytime an employee is doing their normal duties such as responding to calls, doing
maintenance, public education, training or any other official City business.

It shall be the responsibility of the City to provide employees who work in dangerous environments with
personal protective equipment. It is the responsibility of the individual employee to keep this equipment
in good working order and be ready for immediate use at all times. If the equipment, either issued or
supplied, is missing, broken, worn out, expired, in disrepair, or otherwise not working properly, it is the
responsibility of the employee to report this to a superior as soon as possible for repair or replacement.

Each employee is responsible to make sure the protective equipment or clothing is worn/used in the
A failure to not wear/use the equipment properly could result in injury or even death.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

The criteria used to determine the use of required PPE will be as follows:
Anytime an employee is working in a hazardous environment.
Eye or face protection shall be used when there is a hazard of flying particles, molten metal,
liquid chemicals, acids or caustic liquids, harmful or irritating gases or vapors, or potentially
injurious light radiation. injurious light radiation.
Head protection shall be used when working in areas where there is a potential for injury to the
head from falling objects.
Protective footwear shall be used when working in areas where there is a danger of foot injury
due to falling or rolling objects, or objects piercing the sole, and where there is foot exposure to
electrical hazards.
Hand protection shall be used when there is a hazard of skin absorption of chemicals, dermatitis,
chemical burns, punctures, abrasions, thermal burns, or harmful temperature extremes.

SCBA
Self-contained breathing apparatus, including regulators, must be serviced and repaired by qualified
persons. Inspection of compressed air cylinders must be done in accordance with NFPA regulations.

RESPIRATORS
The Department shall provide each employee with the necessary respirators required as per section 2-14
of the Altoona Fire Department Standard Operating Guidelines. Any personal respirator or other
personal protective equipment must meet NFPA requirements and have prior approval for use by the
Fire Chief.

TURNOUT GEAR
Each employee shall be issued turn out gear by the Department that is compliant with NFPA regulations.
Any alterations or changes to this gear are strictly prohibited. Each employee is responsible for the care
and maintenance of this gear. If gear is missing or broken it should be reported immediately to an officer
for repair or replacement.

HEARING PROTECTION HEARING PROTECTION
The Department will provide hearing protection where necessary in accordance with OSHA 29 CFR
1910 and NFPA regulations. This may include hearing protection provided for each employee, or
providing hearing protection in various areas or environments for employees to utilize. Areas/tasks
where hearing protection may be needed include, but are not limited to, riding apparatus, operating
power equipment, maintenance areas, etc.

All personnel shall utilize hearing protection when noise levels exceed, or could exceed, 85 dB (TWA-
time weighted average).
The Department issues hearing protection, to reduce ambient noise levels. Hearing protection shall be
ction
and have it available when needed.

The Department will provide, when necessary, hearing protection for vehicles and apparatus in the form
of intercom system/ear protectors, or other means to provide hearing protection while riding on the
apparatus. Where hearing protection is provided on the apparatus it shall be utilized by employees in
each position where the hearing protection is provided, unless otherwise prohibited by traffic
regulations. This includes both non-emergency and emergency conditions when riding on the apparatus.
If the apparatus does not have hearing protection provided, members may utilize their other hearing
protection methods.

Exceptions to wearing intercom system/ear protectors or hearing protection:
- While performing auscultation procedures upon a patient.
- While verbally communicating with a patient in the module portion of an EMS medic unit.
- When reduced hearing capability in an emergency operations setting creates a greater hazard.

EYE PROTECTION
Definitions

Primary Protector: A device that may be worn alone or in conjunction with a secondary protector.

Protective Goggle: A protective device intended to fit the face immediately surrounding the eyes.
Goggles shall constitute primary eye protection.

Safety Glasses: A protective device, which provides complete eye coverage including side protection Safety Glasses: A protective device, which provides complete eye coverage including side protection
intended to shield the eyes from certain hazards. Safety glasses are considered secondary protectors.

Eye shields: A protective device that is attached to the helmet. Eye shields give limited eye and face
protection. Eye shields are not considered adequate eye protection.

SCBA Face Piece: The full SCBA face piece shall constitute primary protection only when worn with
the regulator in place.

Eye or face protection shall be used when there is a hazard of flying particles, molten metal, liquid
chemicals, acids or caustic liquids, harmful or irritating gases or vapors, or potentially injurious light
radiation.

BODY SUBSTANCE ISOLATION
The Department recognizes that communicable disease exposure is an occupational health hazard.
Communicable disease transmission is possible during any aspect of emergency response, including in-
station operations. The health and welfare of each employee is a joint concern of the employee, the
chain of command, and the Department. Although each employee is ultimately responsible for his or her
own health, the Department recognizes a responsibility to provide as safe a workplace as possible. The
goal of this program is to provide all employees with the best available protection from occupationally
acquired communicable disease.


1-1-95 10-27-10 1 of 3
3-2 VEHICLES & EQUIPMENT EQUIPMENT ISSUED

PURPOSE
This guideline establishes standards for Department owned equipment issued to individual employees.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all Department employees.

GUIDELINE
Employees may be issued Department owned equipment for the purpose of performing his/her job
duties. Each individual employee is responsible for the care, maintenance, proper operation and security
of any Department owned equipment issued to them. Upon termination of employment, the employee
shall return all Department owned property.

Pagers
All personnel shall be responsible for the pager and charger that are issued to them. All personnel shall be responsible for the pager and charger that are issued to them.
Under all circumstances the pager remains the property of the City of Altoona and no
modifications or changes will be made unless approved by the Department.
If a pager malfunctions, report it at once to an officer.
The pager is the only way to know if there is a call or not. It is highly recommended that pagers
be left in the open position so all radio transmissions are received.
Announcements may be made Monday-Friday when needed at 1630hrs.

Radios
All personnel who are issued portable radios shall be responsible for the radio, charger, and
accessories.
Under all circumstances the portable radio remains the property of the City of Altoona and no
modifications or change will be made unless approved by the Department.
If the radio should malfunction, report it to a fire officer at once.
Improper use of the radio will not be allowed and anyone doing so may lose the privilege of Improper use of the radio will not be allowed and anyone doing so may lose the privilege of
having the two-way radio.
All radio transmissions shall be in accordance with FCC regulations. Vulgar language,
unnecessary or unprofessional traffic will not be permitted.
The Altoona Fire Department is licensed on 154.220 MHz. Altoona Fire has been granted
permission to use the other frequencies only when absolutely necessary in an emergency
situation.
Those who own personal radios are granted permission to use them as long as there is room on
radio license. The Department will not pay for costs of this radio.
(programming, maintenance, etc.)
Turnout Gear
Department issued gear shall consist of the following:
-Helmet
-Turnout coat
-Bunker pants
-Boots
-Gloves
-Hood
-Suspenders
-Flashlight
-Goggles
-Webbing, 10ft. long -Webbing, 10ft. long
-Accountability name tags (3)

Department issued turnout gear shall be kept at the fire station unless special permission is granted to
take the gear out of the station for classes, cleaning or maintenance. Special permission may be granted
by the Fire Chief for officers or certain firefighters to be able to take turnout gear home and respond
directly from home to calls.

Employees are responsible for the maintenance and care of their assigned equipment. Your life may
depend on how you take care of your equipment. Equipment must be maintained and cared for as to not
cause damage and to ensure long life. Gear should be washed by an approved cleaning facility after
exposure to products of combustion or every six (6) months, whichever comes first. The Department
will issue replacement gear during this time if it is available.

All personnel will be assigned a storage area to store gear. This area shall be kept neat and not interfere
with other gear stored in the same area. Only issued items or approved items shall be displayed or hung with other gear stored in the same area. Only issued items or approved items shall be displayed or hung
in the storage area. Gear will be hung in the assigned storage area as to be used in a timely manner. Gear
needs to be organized and taken care of. Store it so it is easy to access in a standard manner so it can be
put on quickly. Damaged items or missing items need to be reported to an officer as soon as possible for
repair or replacement.

Employees may not wear or use personally owned gear without the permission of the Fire Chief or
designee.

Employees may be issued more or less gear than listed above depending on rank.

Textbooks/Workbooks

Due to rising costs of educational and classroom materials, each employee cannot be issued their own Due to rising costs of educational and classroom materials, each employee cannot be issued their own
books and materials needed for class. To be cost effective, the Department shall keep a limited number
of materials on file for use by all employees. All City owned materials such as textbooks, workbooks,
binders, folders, notebooks, etc. need to be checked out using this policy.

Books and materials used in classes such as Entry Level Firefighter, Firefighter I, Firefighter II,
Driver/Operator, Hazardous Materials, Fire Officer, or any other certification class through an
accredited technical college or university shall be tracked for accountability.

Firefighter responsibilities

-City owned books and materials should not be written in, highlighted, folded, altered,
cut or ripped, or otherwise altered at anytime. (Photocopying is allowed as long as it does
not cause damage to the materials.)

-Employees shall accept full responsibility and agree to pay for the full replacement costs
for these materials in case of being lost, stolen, damaged, altered, or given to an
unauthorized person. Employees must ensure the safe return of all borrowed items.

-Employees may not transfer possession of these items to another employee for use. All
items must be checked back in and inspected for damages prior to being issued to items must be checked back in and inspected for damages prior to being issued to
someone else.

CHECK OUT/CHECK IN PROCEDURE

1. Any firefighter needing materials for class shall contact a Fire Officer for
access. Only the Fire Officers have authority to issue these items.

2. The firefighter shall fill out the sign out sheet noting the book number(s), date
issued, issuing party, and to whom they were issued to. This information shall
be noted and kept up to date by the issuing Fire Officer.

3. Both parties should inspect the materials and make note of any existing 3. Both parties should inspect the materials and make note of any existing
damage or missing materials PRIOR to being issued.

4. Materials shall be returned to a Fire Officer upon completion of use, noting
the date of return and who received them.

1-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 1
3-3 VEHICLES & EQUIPMENT VEHICLE MAINTENANCE

PURPOSE
This guideline establishes minimum standards for the proper care and maintenance of all Department
owned vehicles and equipment. owned vehicles and equipment.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all Department employees when using Department vehicles and/or
equipment.

GUIDELINE
All vehicles, equipment, tools, and pumps will be checked in accordance with NFPA Standards. Some
equipment is required to be checked on a daily basis while other equipment is required to be checked on
a weekly or monthly basis. All deficiencies shall be documented and repaired as soon as possible. This
equipment may save your life so it must be keep it in good working order. A maintenance schedule has
been established for the maintenance and care of equipment and vehicles on a daily, weekly, and
monthly basis by the maintenance officer. The maintenance officer is ultimately responsible to make monthly basis by the maintenance officer. The maintenance officer is ultimately responsible to make
sure all equipment and vehicles are in proper working order, kept in service, and ready to respond.

After Operations Checks
After each emergency operation of a vehicle an After Operations Form will be filled out. This form is to
ensure the vehicle itself is in good working order and ready to respond for the next call. This is the
responsibility of the vehicle operator to ensure the following:

All fluids in the vehicle are at the proper level (engine oil, coolant, fuel, etc.)
All vehicle lighting equipment are operational
All visual and audible warning equipment are operational
Mileage and pump hours are recorded.

Once this form is filled out, it is turned in to the office for record keeping. It is the responsibility of the
officer or senior firefighter in charge of their vehicle to make sure this form is completed and any repairs officer or senior firefighter in charge of their vehicle to make sure this form is completed and any repairs
needed are done immediately, if possible.

Monthly Vehicle/Equipment Checks
Every month the vehicle and the equipment carried in the vehicle will be checked and maintained and
exercised to be sure it is in proper working order. A Monthly Vehicle Check Form will have a checklist
quipment that should be exercised and checked out and filled out every month.

1-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 6
3-4 VEHICLES & EQUIPMENT VEHICLE OPERATONS

PURPOSE
This guideline is to establish minimum standards required by the Altoona Fire Department for any This guideline is to establish minimum standards required by the Altoona Fire Department for any
employee that drives a Department vehicle. Certain minimum requirements must be met before entering
the driver seat required by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, NFPA, and Wisconsin State
Statutes as they pertain to emergency vehicles and emergency response. The City of Altoona Fire
Department has developed this guideline in addition to the requirements of the law. Every
driver/operator must meet these requirements and understand the risk a driver/operator accepts to ensure
safe operation of Department vehicles. A policy must be in place to establish a procedure of training
driver/operators before they get in the driver seat.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to any employee who may be in a position to drive or operate Department
vehicles in both an emergency mode and non-emergency mode. Every employee shall comply with this
guideline before driving or operating any vehicle for any purpose unless under specific and direct orders
of a fire officer, Incident Commander or senior firefighter in charge.

GENERAL RULES

No Department vehicle shall be taken out of the response district unless on official business or
for maintenance. Prior approval of the Fire Chief or designee is required before taking a vehicle
out of the response district.
Only City of Altoona employees are authorized to ride in Department vehicles. Non-City
employees may ride with prior approval of the Fire Chief or designee for parades, special details,
or special circumstances.
No Department vehicle may be used for personal use.
A vehicle should be staffed with minimum personnel whenever possible. This cannot always
happen with driver training, maintenance, etc.
All personnel on board must be seated with seat belts fastened at all times when the vehicle is in
motion.
All vehicles and personn All vehicles and personn
calls at all times and in accordance to the maintenance standards.
Any damage or maintenance problems must be reported immediately to a fire officer.

DEFINITIONS
CODE III- Emergency response with visual lights and audible siren warning systems activated,
exceeding the speed limit ONLY when it is safe to do so, with due regard to other drivers and traffic
laws. -

CODE I- Non-emergency response with no visual lights or audible siren warning systems activated,
normal driving obeying all traffic laws and speeds.
For the purpose of this guideline, is defined as a response to an incident that is a
true emergency where there is an increased likelihood of injury or property loss and requires immediate
action.
It would be considered a CODE III response.

For the purpose of this guideline, - refers to all other incidents in which
Department vehicles are utilized.
It would be considered a CODE I response.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Wisconsin State law allows authorized emergency vehicles certain privileges while driving in Wisconsin State law allows authorized emergency vehicles certain privileges while driving in
emergency mode. Emergency vehicles may deviate slightly from the traffic law. According to State of
Wisco the driver of an authorized emergency vehicle, when involved in an emergency
operation, only when both visual and audible warning systems are activated, may exercise these

Stop, stand, or park irrespective of the provisions of traffic (park opposite side of street or travel
against the flow of traffic)
Proceed past a steady red signal, a flashing red signal, or stop sign, but only after slowing down
as may be necessary for safe operation.
Exceed the maximum posted speed limit so long as they do not endanger life or property.
Disregard regulations governing directions of movement or turning in specified directions.
(traveling against one way streets or make a U-turn on an interstate marked no U-turn)

ot relieve the driver of an emergency vehicle from the duty to drive with due
regard for the safety of all persons and property, nor shall such provisions protect the driver from the regard for the safety of all persons and property, nor shall such provisions protect the driver from the
--Wisconsin Administrative Code.

SCHOOL ZONES

the speed limit is 15 MPH,

ll vehicles, including emergency vehicles, regardless of lights & siren, must stop for school buses
with flashing red lights and/or activated stop sign and remain stopped until the lights and stop sign are
-Wisconsin Administrative Code

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS OF DRIVER/OPERATORS
Personnel who drive Department vehicles must meet the following regardless if driving in emergency or Personnel who drive Department vehicles must meet the following regardless if driving in emergency or
non- emergency mode:

Minimum requirements
(out of state or military dr may qualify
on case by case basis)
Must be an active member for at least one (1) year and be off of probation
Complete the minimum required hours of observed driver training with an authorized
Department driver training instructor per vehicle (some vehicles may vary)
Must be approved by an authorized Department driving instructor
(Instructors are approved by the Fire Chiefor designee.)
Must be familiar with vehicle pump operations
ABSOLUTE SOBRIETY IS REQUIRED--NO EXCEPTIONS!
(This will be strictly enforced. Non-compliance will be grounds for immediate dismissal.)

Preferred requirements (strongly recommend but not mandatory)
Certified 40 hour Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC)
Certified 40 hour Driver/Operator class
Take the CDL test for a Wisconsi
(no requirement to have CDL)

No employee may drive or operate Department vehicles if they do not meet these minimum standards No employee may drive or operate Department vehicles if they do not meet these minimum standards
unless directed by the Incident Commander, officer in charge, or senior firefighter in charge. To do so
could result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.

Employees shall immediately inform their Lieutenant/superior officer in the event their
is suspended or revoked for any reason.
Upon such suspension or revocation, the approval to drive shall automatically be revoked and status as a
member in good standing with the Department shall be reviewed.

DRIVER RESPONSIBILITIES
- Safe operation of the vehicle at all times
- Be proficient with each individual apparatus driving and pumping characteristics
- Make sure all occupants of the vehicle are seated and seat belted before moving vehicle
- Be sure all doors are closed and items are secured before moving vehicle
- Know the location of the incident and the best possible route to get there BEFORE leaving the - Know the location of the incident and the best possible route to get there BEFORE leaving the
station
- Safe placement of the vehicle on scene, preferably on the same side of street if available or to
protect the scene if applicable
- All drivers shall stay with their vehicle, unless otherwise ordered by Incident Commander or
Officer in Charge
- Keep track of all equipment removed from the vehicle at an incident and make sure it gets
replaced
- Keep track of amount of water used (estimate)
- After Operation Report
- Notify the Incident Commander/Officer in Charge immediately if there is a mechanical failure of
any kind with the vehicle or any equipment carried in the vehicle.
- Make sure vehicle is washed, equipment is checked and is back in service for the next call

DRIVER/OPERATOR TRAINING DRIVER/OPERATOR TRAINING
Any employee, who meets the minimum requirements and wishes to be an approved driver/operator of
any Department vehicle, must make a request to their Lieutenant/superior officer. Perspective
driver/operator trainees shall receive approval by the Fire Chief or designee before training begins. Once
approval has been granted, the trainee may begin the training program. This program shall be done only
by Department authorized driver instructors. Each driver instructor shall review the trainee and
Driver/Operator Training Form
individual vehicle. Once the trainee completes this form, the instructor shall sign it and submit it to the
Fire Chief or designee for final approval.
Trainees shall be evaluated on their performance in two parts, driving and operating the pump. Trainees
must show proficiency in both driving and pumping before being approved. Trainees shall take as much
time as necessary to accomplish this.

Driver Training
The minimum training time for each type of vehicle is:
- Utility vehicles/staff vehicles (1 hour)
- 4x4 vehicles/off road vehicles (1 hour)
- Tender (2 hours)
- Engines (2 hours)
- Boat and towing trailers (2 hours)

There shall be no driver training after 10:00pm (2200hrs.) unless authorized by a Fire Officer.

Each trainee must show competency in the following with each vehicle:
Left and right hand turns\
Braking reaction times/following distance
Up shifting/downshifting
Starting/stopping on a hill
General steering reactions
Acceleration and speed control
Load factors
Highway driving
Backing (straight and around corners)
Night driving
Diminishing alley Diminishing alley
Serpentine

Pump Training
Each trainee shall show proficiency in each apparatus pumping operations. It is highly recommended for
each trainee to attend the 40 hour course of Driver/Operator class to learn the fundamentals of pump
operations and basic pumping skills.

A trainee has to know the following information of each individual apparatus:
Vehicle positioning and how to secure vehicle
Engaging the pump
Pump intakes and water supply
Pump discharges, sizes and uses
Pump panel layout
Pump capacity Pump capacity
Basic pumping math
Drafting
Each trainee must work with their instructors on a one on one basis to become proficient with the
pumping operations on each apparatus. Trainees must understand that more hours per apparatus may be
necessary to become comfortable to operate at an incident. The period of training time before being
approved is the time to get familiar with the apparatus and the equipment on it. The above listed hours
are a minimum time requirement; however trainees are expected to take the time necessary to be
comfortable operating the apparatus before taking their road test. In the case of engines and tankers, time
should be equally divided between each apparatus since each vehicle drives and pumps differently from
each other.
VEHICLE BACKING
The Crew Chief shall be the spotter whenever a vehicle needs to back up. Sometimes, this cannot be
done due to certain circumstances. Drivers should wait for a spotter whenever possible. If a Driver has
to move a vehicle immediately, prior to the backing of any Department vehicle, the driver/operator
should perform a 360-degree circle safety check by walking around the entire vehicle to visually inspect
for obstructions at or above ground level that the vehicle may strike. This 360-degree survey may be
done from inside the cab if the driver is able to see the entire area behind the vehicle (staff cars or
smaller vehicles) the responsibility of any crash shall rest with the driver/operator and he/she may be
subject to any and all traffic citations.

Spotter Spotter
Prior to the actual backing of the apparatus, at least one person shall be deployed to the rear of the
vehicle as a spotter. The spotter shall stand on the left side (driver side) of the apparatus so the driver
and the spotter have eye-to-eye contact via the left outside mirror. If possible, the spotter should use the
headset plug in at the rear of the apparatus to have direct communications with the driver. Additional
spotters may be necessary in certain situations (driver confidence, large crowds, close proximity of
obstructions, etc.) If for some reason a spotter is not available, the driver deems it is unsafe or
impractical for the vehicle to remain where it is until a spotter is available shall take whatever means
he/she deems necessary, according to training and experience, to safely back up the vehicle.

Spotters are responsible for:
Direction of vehicle while in motion
Must be aware of obstructions high and low
Must constantly be looking and listening for people/vehicles that may enter the path of the
vehicle and stop the hazard vehicle and stop the hazard
Shall maintain visual contact with the driver at all times
Use standard hand signals to the driver to signal vehicle movement
At night, shine a flashlight or a rear spotlight on themselves so the driver can see them. DO NOT
point the flashlight directly in the mirror of the driver.
Use the headset for voice communications whenever possible

Drivers are responsible for:
The driver is overall responsible for the movement of the vehicle. Do not move the vehicle until
directed to do so by the Crew Chief.
The driver side window shall be rolled down as to hear verbal commands if necessary
Activate the rear warning lights and/or four way flashers
Move the vehicle ONLY after being directed to by the spotter
If the driver loses sight of the spotter, STOP the vehicle until the spotter becomes visible again If the driver loses sight of the spotter, STOP the vehicle until the spotter becomes visible again
Check the opposite mirror/opposite front corner frequently for obstructions
If at any time the driver feels uncomfortable or feels that situation is unsafe, stop the vehicle and
make another 360 degree check of the area
Back only at idle speed while keeping a foot on the brake at all times

***whenever a vehicle is backing up, the visual warning lights shall be activated***

Vehicle backing signals
If the vehicle is equipped with headsets, the Crew Chief shall unplug from the crew cab and plug into
the back of the vehicle so he/she can give verbal commands through the headset in conjunction with
hand signals. There has to be a standard for backing signals to avoid any confusion as to what the driver
should do. The signals should be animated and exaggerated in a way that it is easily visible to the driver.
These signals are:

Straight back- One hand above the head with the palm toward face, waving backwards. Other hand at
your side. (left or right hand optional)

Turn- Both arms pointing in the direction the vehicle should turn with index fingers extended

Stop- Both arms crossed over the head with hands in a fist.

(If at all possible use voice communications and supplement it with hand signals)

REPORTING OF CRASHES WITH DEPARTMENT VEHICLES
Whenever a Department owned vehicle is involved in a motor vehicle crash or collides with property,
stationary objects, or persons, no matter how minor, has to be reported. This is the responsibility of the
Crew Chief to make sure this report is made.

The following needs to be done in the event of a Department owned vehicle crash:

Take care of any injuries as a result of the crash and request appropriate resources if required
Complete the information in the vehicle accident packet in each vehicle
Notify the Incident Commander or officer in charge
Notify the Fire Chief

The vehicle accident packet in each vehicle should be filled out as complete as possible and turned into
the senior officer in charge. Another packet should be obtained from the City Human Resources Fire
Chief and put back in the vehicle as soon as possible.

The driver of the apparatus involved may be ordered to do an immediate drug/urine test at the discretion
of the senior fire officer, Incident Commander, or law enforcement officer investigating the crash.

Any vehicle that becomes damaged or disabled, regardless of how it occurred or how minor, has to be
reported to a fire officer immediately at any time. If necessary, the vehicle shall be taken out of service reported to a fire officer immediately at any time. If necessary, the vehicle shall be taken out of service
as long as is required to correct the damage or to repair the vehicle.

1-1-95 1-21-11 1 of 4
3-5 VEHICLES & EQUIPMENT VEHICLE PARKING ON ROADWAYS

PURPOSE
To establish safe parking practices for Department apparatus on roadways and highways that will To establish safe parking practices for Department apparatus on roadways and highways that will
provide maximum scene protection and safety for personnel operating in or near moving vehicle traffic.
This guideline will also identify several approaches for individual practices to keep firefighters safe
while exposed to the hazardous environment of moving traffic.

SCOPE
This guideline will apply to all Department employees working at a vehicle related incident in or near
moving traffic.

GUIDELINE
It shall be the policy of the Altoona Fire Department to position apparatus and other emergency vehicles
at a vehicle related incident on any street, road, highway or expressway in a manner that best protects
the incident scene and the work area. Such positioning shall afford protection to fire department the incident scene and the work area. Such positioning shall afford protection to fire department
personnel, law enforcement officers, ambulance employees and the general public from the hazards of
working in or near moving traffic.

GENERAL TERMINOLOGY
Advance Warning- Notification procedures that advise approaching motorists to transition from normal
driving to what is required by the temporary traffic control measures from emergency personnel. This is
usually a warning sign, sign board, or emergency vehicle.

Upstream- The direction that traffic is moving as it travels toward the incident scene.

Downstream- The direction that traffic is moving as it travels away from the incident scene.

Block- Positioning a fire department apparatus on an angle to the lanes of traffic creating a physical

Buffer Zone- The distance or space between personnel and vehicles in the protected work zone nearby
moving traffic.

Flagger- A fire department member assigned to monitor approaching traffic and sound a warning if the
actions of a motorist do not conform to established traffic control measures in place at the scene. This
person can also stand in a safe location and wave traffic to slow down and move toward the desired
direction or lane.

Shadow- The protected work area at an incident that is shielded by the block from apparatus and other
emergency vehicles.

Temporary Work Zone- The physical area of a roadway within which emergency personnel perform
their fire, EMS and rescue duties at a motor vehicle incident.

Taper- The action of merging several lanes of moving traffic into fewer moving lanes.

Transition Zone- The lanes of a roadway within which approaching motorist change their speed and
position to comply with the traffic control measures established at an emergency scene.

SAFETY
All emergency personnel are at great risk of injury or death while operating in or near moving traffic.
There are several specific tactical procedures that should be taken by each individual and kept in mind at
all times to protect yourself on scene:
NEVER trust approaching traffic
Avoid turning your back to approaching traffic
ALWAYS look before you move
Always wear Class III high visibility reflective vests during daylight hours
Always have an acute awareness of the high risk of working in traffic
Always wear your helmet
Always wear full PPE plus the highway safety vest between the hours of dusk and dawn or
whenever lighting is reduced due to inclement weather conditions
Work only in the shadow of blocking vehicles and keep all personnel and equipment within this
safe working area safe working area
Always consider moving vehicles a threat to your safety and do not trust that motorists will
always do what you want them to

vehicle breaks through the traffic control measures and comes into the work area.
Always look for traffic before opening any door. Avoid stepping out into traffic whenever
possible.

APPARATUS AND EMERGENCY VEHICLES
There should only be enough emergency vehicles on the roadway as necessary to handle the incident.
The more vehicles on the roadway the more risk there is to emergency personnel. More vehicles than The more vehicles on the roadway the more risk there is to emergency personnel. More vehicles than
necessary could also confuse motorists and create a worse situation. Do the job properly with the
minimum amount
done, Command should release vehicles to get off the roadway as soon as possible.

The apparatus used to block should be large enough to protect the entire scene, preferably an engine or a
tanker. There also should be sufficient emergency lighting, with a traffic advisor if possible, on the
vehicle.

Considerations for Driver/Operators when parking on the roadway:
Initial apparatus placement should provide a work area protected from traffic approaching in at
least one direction.
Be sure the work zone is big enough to include all damaged vehicles, roadway debris, patient
triage and treatment area, extrication work area, personnel and tool staging area, and the
ambulance loading zone. It is always easier to pull up closer than backing up.

physical barrier between the incident and approaching traffic.

Allow apparatus placement to slow approaching motorists and redirect them around scene.

When practical, position the apparatus in such a manner to protect the pump panel and operator
from being exposed to approaching traffic.

Turn off all sources of vision impairment to approaching motorists from either direction during
darkness such as headlights and spotlights. This could require turning off emergency lighting
such as front light bars, strobes, and wig wag headlights.

Set up scene lighting as soon as possible but not to cause oncoming traffic to be blinded.

blocking apparatus.

Ambulances should be parked within the protected work zone with the rear patient loading doors
angled away from the nearest lanes of traffic. angled away from the nearest lanes of traffic.

At intersections, or where the incident may be in the middle lane of the roadway, two (2) or more
sides of the incident may need to be protected.

Considerations for Incident Command:
Whenever possible, all emergency vehicles should stage on the same side of the road as the
incident. If the incident occurs on a divided highway, vehicles should park on the same side as
the incident as well as block the closest lane for the safe zone. (if the incident is in the median,
park on that side and block the left lane. If it occurs on the right side of the road, park on that
side and block the closest right lane.)

Stage all unneeded emergency vehicles off the roadway on a ramp, crossover, or parking lot.

Assure that all emergency vehicles on scene are placed within the protected work area. Assure that all emergency vehicles on scene are placed within the protected work area.

Establish sufficient advanced warning and transition area traffic controls upstream of the incident
to reduce travel speeds of approaching motorist.

Use traffic cones, or cones illuminated by flares when appropriate, as soon as possible for traffic
control and direction.

workers at the scene if the actions of a motorist do not conform to the desired traffic control
measures.

DIRECTING TRAFFIC
Fire Department personnel should avoid directing traffic. This is a law enforcement responsibility and
whenever possible, police should direct traffic. Depending on the availability of officers that are on duty
and what their job duties are on scene, firefighters could be called on to assist with directing traffic. If
firefighters are asked to help, use the following guidelines:

Follow the guidelines in the previous section on SAFETY (safety vest, attitude & awareness, etc)

does not do what you want them to do.

Never trust that motorists will always do what you want them to do.

Traffic cones should be placed at 15ft. intervals upstream of the blocking apparatus with the
furthest cone approx. 75ft. upstream to allow adequate advance warning to drivers.
Use the highway direction (Northbound, Southbound, Eastbound, Westbound) and mile post
markers whenever possible to describe relationship or reference points.

.

On mulit-
from the right and working left (outside working towards the median).

The Flagger or personnel directing traffic must have a portable radio.

Hand Signals
Stand in the roadway to be visible yet not in the way of the traffic flow.

Drop one or two flares or hand lantern near the person directing traffic for illumination.

Only one person should be giving hand signals. Multiple people confuse drivers. Stay away from
the person directing traffic.

Over exaggerate your hand signals and be very obvious of what you want the vehicle to do. Use
your whole arm to point to a particular direction. Keep your arm in motion until the vehicle
acknowledges your request by turning on their turn signal or they make the turn.

show which
direction to turn. Use a flashlight cone or traffic wand whenever possible. direction to turn. Use a flashlight cone or traffic wand whenever possible.

Keep traffic moving. Do not let vehicles stop and ask you questions or look at what is going on.
This will cause more problems such as other crashes and create more risk to personnel on scene.

1-1-95 1-21-11 1 of 3
3-6 VEHICLES & EQUIPMENT RIDING ASSIGNMENTS

PURPOSE
The purpose of this procedure is to establish a standing order for job assignments of firefighters that are The purpose of this procedure is to establish a standing order for job assignments of firefighters that are
specific to the seat they are occupying in an engine that would be First Due or first to arrive, at a fire
scene. Pre-assigned job assignments for each riding seat in an apparatus will allow a firefighter to
understand what tasks they are individually responsible for. The assignments shall be interchangeable
from engine to engine, regardless of the engine designation, (E1, E2, E3 & SQ1). This allows the crew
to work very efficiently at the most critical part of an incident when the crew knows their duties. These
assignments will also give the Crew Chief more time to plan a strategy to mitigate the situation. These
will be standing orders that can be altered by the Incident Commander or Crew Chief at any time.

SCOPE
This guideline will apply to all employees of the City of Altoona Fire Department that will be riding
apparatus and responding to calls for service.

GUIDELINE
Each seat position on the first due engine has a standing order of very specific tasks to be completed that
is broken down by what seat you sit in. These duties shall be a standing order that shall be completed
unless the Crew Chief, depending upon the situation, changes these assignments. As part of an engine
crew, if you have not been given a specific task by the Crew Chief, you shall follow these assignments.
The standing order assignments will be posted at each riding seat so you are aware of the individual
responsibilities of that riding position. The firefighter is responsible to make sure they complete the
specific tasks assigned to them. These assignments shall be interchangeable between any engine that
happens to be the first to arrive at a fire.

Each riding position shall be designated in relation to the seating arrangement as below:

Position 1 Driver

Position 1 Driver
Position 2 Crew Chief
Position 3 Pipman
Position 4 Back up Pipeman
Position 5 Hydrant/Firefighter

These positions remain the same regardless if
facing forward or backward
FIRST DUE ENGINE

POSITION 1- DRIVER
RADIO DESIGNATION
Engineer/pump operator
Charge appropriate line(s)
Provide scene lighting
Complete hydrant hook-up after getting pressure from the booster tank.
At all times, STAY WITH VEHICLE unless requested by IC or Crew Chief.
Keep PAR board available for Safety Officer/Incident Commander

POSITION 2- CREW CHIEF
MUST HAVE PORTABLE RADIO----RADIO DESIGNATION
Radio first in report
Establish command upon arrival
Perform 360 degree assessment of structure
Maintain command duties until relieved by senior officer (at discretion of Command)
Be ready to operate the backup attack line if needed

POSITION 3- PIPEMAN
May take portable radio if available (keep volume low)
Pull attack line to entry point (loop and nozzle)
Take axe
Take flashlight

POSITION 4- BACK UP-PIPEMAN
MUST HAVE PORTABLE RADIO---
Radio designation may change depending upon orders from the Incident Commander.
Pull back up attack line and take to entry point
Take haligan tool
Take and operate TIC
Re-group with pipe man on attack line at entry point

POSITION 5- HYDRANT
MUST HAVE PORTABLE RADIO---RADIO DESIGNATION
Get off at hydrant
Pull LDH hose and hydrant bag off truck
Make hydrant connection Make hydrant connection
Turn on hydrant ONLY after contacting the Engine Operator
Re-group at engine
Take flashlight and axe
Standby to operate back up attack line

all be in place at all times. These standing orders shall
be interchangeable between all the engines, depending on if they are First Due to a fire. These orders can
be changed in any degree by the Crew Chief at anytime. The Crew Chief will have the final word.
EXTRICATION CALLS
There shall be another standing order seating assignments for extrication or entrapment calls. These standing
orders shall work just like the orders established for fire calls but the duties shall be different. Each firefighter on
the engine shall have an individual set of tasks to be completed upon arriving on the scene. These tasks are listed
below.

SQUAD 1

POSITION 1- DRIVER
RADIO DESIGNATION Squad
Engineer/pump operator Engineer/pump operator
Hydraulic pump operator
Provide scene lighting
Drop traffic cones if needed
At all times, STAY WITH VEHICLE unless requested by IC or Crew Chief.
Keep PAR board available for Safety Officer/Incident Commander

POSITION 2- CREW CHIEF
MUST HAVE PORTABLE RADIO---RADIO DESIGNATION
First in radio report
Initiate Incident Command
Perform 360 degree INNER and OUTER CIRCLE
Direct extrication in conjunction with EMS personnel

POSITION 3- PIPEMAN
Hydraulic spreaders
Use spreaders as directed by OIC
If spreaders are not needed, help drop traffic cones and/or vehicle stabilization

POSITION 4- BACK-UP PIPEMAN
MUST HAVE PORTABLE RADIO-RADIO DESIGNATION
Hydraulic cutters
Use cutters as directed by OIC
If cutters are not needed, help drop traffic cones and/or vehicle stabilization

POSITION 5- FIREFIGHTER POSITION 5- FIREFIGHTER
Drop tool tarp if needed
Stabilize vehicle/tire deflation
Disconnect vehicle batteries
Cribbing if needed

Remember that t
changed in any degree by the Crew Chief at anytime. The Crew Chief will have the final word.

12-1-09 9-9-10 1 of 3
3-7 VEHICLES & EQUIPMENT

PURPOSE
Establish a guideline to provide a safe driving policy for the operation of privately owned vehicles
(POV) using emergency lights and siren. (POV) using emergency lights and siren.

SCOPE
This guideline applies to all employees of the Altoona Fire Department.

GUIDELINE
Only the Fire Chief, with prior approval from the County Sheriff, can authorize, in writing, an employee
to use visual and audible warning devices in their POV to be designated as an official Department
emergency vehicle as defined in WI State Statute 340.01. Authorization is employee and vehicle specific
and reviewed on a case by case basis. Only authorized personnel are allowed to use visual and audible
warning devices in an approved POV to respond to calls. Any employee must have prior approval in
writing before any audible and/or visual warning devices are installed in any POV. Installation of any
type of warning device in any POV, without prior approval, is considered a violation of this policy. type of warning device in any POV, without prior approval, is considered a violation of this policy.

Authorized employees who choose to use visual and audible warning devices in their vehicle do so at
their own expense and liability. The Department shall not incur any cost for the purchase, installation,
maintenance, or operations of any warning device that is not owned by the Department and shall not
incur any cost for insurance coverage of the vehicle. Each employee is responsible to notify their
insurance company of the utilization of emergency warning devices in their POV.

The following positions are authorized to use emergency lights and siren in a POV:
Fire Chief/Chief of Department
Assistant Fire Chief
Captain(s)

Any other employee not listed above shall not use any type of emergency lighting and/or audible
warning devices at any time without the written authorization of the Fire Chief. warning devices at any time without the written authorization of the Fire Chief.

Eligibility for Authorization
Employees and vehicles must meet and maintain the following requirements to be eligible for
authorization as an emergency vehicle:
The vehicle must be appropriately registered in the employees name with the State of Wisconsin
as required by law.
The employee must have and maintain
The owner of the vehicle shall provide proof of insurance
The owner shall be responsible for maintaining the safe mechanical condition of their vehicle in
compliance with applicable State laws and shall be required to show proof upon request by the
Fire Chief or designee. (Trans. 305, State Statute 347.02)
The employee must report any changes of vehicle, or transfer of devices to another vehicle, to
the Fire Chief prior to installing said devices.
The employee must have Department approved driver training, preferably
or other defensive driving course.

Any time the above requirements are not met, the employee becomes ineligible and their authorization
may be revoked.

Warning Devices
Warning devices must comply with NFPA 1901 and Wisconsin Statutes as they pertain to the
installation, mounting location, color, and operation. An employee may use Department owned devices,
if available, with prior approval of the Fire Chief.

Visual Warning Devices
Wisconsin Statute 347.25 mandates vehicle emergency lighting that is approved for fire department use
be the proper color, flash at a minimum of 75 fpm, and must be plainly visible 360 degrees at a
minimum distance of 500 ft. from the vehicle in normal sunlight and in darkness, under normal weather
conditions.
The following colors are approved for fire department use:
Red any direction
White to the front and sides ONLY
Amber to the rear and sides ONLY
Per NFPA 1901 and WI Statute 347.25, the above colors can be used in any combination but only to the
directions listed. The color blue is approved for law enforcement only. It is illegal for any non-law
enforcement person to possess, carry in a vehicle, or use any type of blue lights.

An approved emergency vehicle can be equipped so that the high beams of its headlamps pulsate or
flash alternately at a rate of 70 to 90 pulses or flashes per minute. The pulsating or flashing headlamps
may be used only when the other visual warning devices are used.

Audible Warning Devices
Wisconsin Statute 347.38 and NFPA 1901 require that when visual warning devices are activated, an
audible warning device must be used at the same time. An audible device is not allowed to be used
without visual warning devices or for any other use than to respond to an emergency. The siren must
transmit an audible signal not less than 200 ft. from the vehicle. The siren speaker must be mounted as
low and as far forward as practical. Audible warning devices shall not be installed on the roof or on any low and as far forward as practical. Audible warning devices shall not be installed on the roof or on any
part above the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

Traffic Control Preemption Devices
Under Wisconsin law, it is illegal to possess, install, or use a traffic control preemption device on any
privately owned vehicle. Preemption devices are only allowed on Department owned vehicles.
Emergency Response with POV
Safe driving practices
conditions. Each vehicle operator must comply with WI State Statues as they apply to response of
Vehicle Operations and rking on
sections of the Altoona Fire Department Standard Operating Guidelines as they pertain to
responding in emergent mode and parking. Serious consideration should be given to the information
available if an emergency response is warranted.

The following regulations shall also apply:
The use of visual and audible warning devices shall be used for official use only. Any other non-
authorized use is strictly prohibited.
Use of warning devices may be used outside of the Altoona Fire Department primary response Use of warning devices may be used outside of the Altoona Fire Department primary response
area while responding from a reasonable distance, and/or while responding to mutual aid
requests.
There shall be no one in the vehicle under the age of eighteen (18) years old.
AM/FM radios/stereos, GPS units, or any other device in the vehicle shall be turned off or down
to a minimum volume as to not to cause distractions.
Operators may only drive at speeds (including exceeding the posted speed limit) that are safe to do
so considering weather, road conditions, traffic volume, time of day, etc. while driving with due
regard as to not jeopardize the safety of any other person or driver.
Any cell phone use by the operator (including hands free options) is prohibited during any
emergency response to ensure concentration of driving and/or radio traffic.
All passengers in the vehicle must be seated with restraints fastened. Serious consideration
should be given to the increased risk of responding in emergent mode with passengers that are
not Department employees. This is strongly discouraged. (family, friends, pets, etc.)

apparatus or other vehicles on scene.
If a situation presents itself while driving with visual and audible warning devices activated
where the vehicle cannot get through traffic due to congestion, construction, or any other
circumstance that would create a greater danger to public safety, the driver must deactivate the
warning devices until traffic clears or the situation improves and forward progress is resumed.

SCHOOL ZONES

the speed limit is 15 MPH,

ll vehicles, including emergency vehicles, regardless of lights & siren, must stop for school buses
with flashing red lights and/or activated stop sign and remain stopped until the lights and stop sign are
-Wisconsin Administrative Code

TERMS
Aggressive driving will not be tolerated when utilizing warning devices. Any violation of this policy or
reports of unsafe driving, conduct unbecoming, unprofessional actions and/or statements, traffic
violations, public complaints, or other complaint, will be investigated by the Fire Chief or designee and
the employee shall be subject to revocation of their authorization and/or discipline.

The Fire Chief has final authority to renew or revoke authorization of a vehicle or an employee at any
time without cause.

1-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 3
4-1 EMERGENCY RESPONSE STANDING ORDERS for RESPONSE

GENERAL RESPONSE RULES / STANDING ORDERS

All employees must comply with the ALCOHOL/CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE Standard
Operating Guideline. (see SOG 2-4)

All employees shall respond to the station unless authorized to respond directly to the scene by
the Fire Chief. Use of any emergency lighting is prohibited without prior approval. Driving with
hazard lights, flashing headlights, using the horn, or tailgating is not allowed and against the law.

All Employees MUST obey all traffic laws while responding to the station.

All Employees MUST yield to emergency vehicles while responding to the station.

Upon arrival on scene, the crew shall stay with their vehicle until given an assignment by the
crew chief or Incident Commander. Once given an assignment, the crew should stay together as
a company unless otherwise assigned by the IC. Upon completion of an assigned duty, the crew a company unless otherwise assigned by the IC. Upon completion of an assigned duty, the crew
shall return to their vehicle or to a designated staging area.

All vehicles have maps &/or map books in them. Take the time to look up the address location
before leaving the station. It takes less time to look up the correct location, before you leave the
station than to try to find it when you are lost.

The first senior person at the station will have to determine from the information received what
type of response is necessary.

RESPONDING TO AN ALARM

BE PREPARED BE PREPARED
Dress appropriately. Clothing with offensive, obscene material, or that are in disrepair is not
acceptable.
Dress for the weather. Have extra socks, gloves, hats etc. for extended periods of time out in the
elements.
Know where your clothes, shoes, car keys, radio, pager, etc. are located to help expedite your
response. Lay your clothes out at night for easier response.
Back your personal vehicle into the driveway when possible. Park your vehicle in a garage if
possible, in preparation for bad weather. (snow, frost, freezing rain)
Listen to the dispatch information carefully. Be sure to understand the address and main problem
and start thinking about how to handle the situation.

PARKING AT THE STATION
Use only the west entrance as a main entrance into the parking lot. This will not interfere with
emergency vehicles leaving the station. Pull up to the edge of the blacktop. If possible, avoid
parking on the street.
If you get a ride to the station by someone, advise that person to park and stay parked until the
traffic flow stops. This is to prevent any accidents or traffic problems with vehicles entering or
leaving the station.

INSIDE THE STATION
Get into your turnout gear and staff vehicles in an orderly manner. Get into your turnout gear and staff vehicles in an orderly manner.
Be prepared for sudden changes or orders from officers or senior firefighters
Be ready to respond to another alarm.
All personnel shall have all of their turnout gear with them when responding with Department
vehicles.

VEHICLE STAFFING
Staff vehicles in the proper order for the type of call, per Department Standard Operating
Guidelines.
Don't play favorites. Fighting and/or stalling over a position will not be tolerated.
All personnel shall be seated and belted in before the vehicle leaves the station.
Generally, the first person inside the door is the driver/operator of the first out vehicle. If you
have a problem with driving or pump operations, ask someone else to drive. (If you can't operate
the pump, you don't belong driving.) the pump, you don't belong driving.)
Know where you are going before you leave the station.
An officer shall be in the crew chief position whenever possible and/or available. In the absence
of an officer, the most senior firefighter should take over as crew chief of the vehicle.
Do not overload vehicles with personnel. Staffing shall only be enough for each seat belted
riding position.

BEFORE LEAVING THE STATION check the following; (both Driver and Crew Chief)
- Fasten your seatbelt.
- Fuel, Oil Pressure, Air Pressure gauges look ok. Vehicle completes automatic checks.
- Emergency lights on and working.
- Turn headlights on.
- Check the personnel, doors, and equipment on the vehicle. Make sure there is not an
indicator light flashing for the vehicle.
- Crew Chief watches clearance of apparatus bay door and only enters the apparatus after the - Crew Chief watches clearance of apparatus bay door and only enters the apparatus after the
vehicle has pulled out onto the apron.
- Tell the Communications Center/Base that you are responding on the radio.

AT THE SCENE
Park vehicle in a safe place. Parking shall be in a manner so as to not interfere with incoming
emergency vehicles. Park close to the emergency, but far enough away so it won't have to be
moved in case of a wind
lines.
Locate your vehicle so a water supply can be hooked up with minimum effort. Set parking brake
and have vehicle blocked.
If first at the scene, advise all in coming units of the situation with a first in radio report. (Crew
chief will assume command)
Responders shall evaluate the situation, and advise incoming units if more help is needed or to be
cancelled as soon as possible.
All personnel not needed shall be released immediately.

AFTER THE CALL
Make sure all disposable equipment is replaced if not already replaced on scene.
Make sure all Department vehicles and equipment are stored properly, cleaned, put away and
ready to respond to the next call. ready to respond to the next call.
Complete necessary reports and paperwork; replace paperwork for the next call.
Change case number on the case number board for the next call.
Ensure all overhead doors and entry doors are secured and lights are shut off.

VEHICLES WITH MECHANICAL FAILURE
Any Department vehicle that becomes disabled and not able to proceed will not be left in any manner
without advising the officer in charge. If there is no fire officer present, an attempt shall be made to
make contact with a fire officer to advise of the situation. In freezing weather the disabled vehicle shall
drain the pump and tank immediately.

STANDBY PERSONNEL
When all of the vehicles required for the situation are properly staffed and responding, and if there is no
other need for further units on the scene, the remainder of the personnel will stand-by at the station.

Responsibilities of the stand by personnel:
Put the base radio in service
Be prepared to staff the next vehicle due to respond in case it is needed on the current incident.
It is the responsibility of the stand-by crew to respond to another call. Personnel should be ready
to handle a second call that may come in.
The stand-by crew shall do station duties such as sweep the apparatus bays that are empty or take
care of other items that need attention. (sweep, garbage,change light bulbs, clean up, rehab supplies, etc.)
Stand by personnel shall be responsible to remove and roll hose in the hose tower and prepare to
lay out dry hose to replace what is being used at the current incident.
All necessary incident reports/forms shall be prepared and new ones replaced for the next call.
Stand by personnel will wash, clean, re-supply, and put back into service all returning vehicles
and equipment as soon as possible.
Remain at the station within radio contact and be ready to respond until released.

No One is excused unless released by the senior officer at the station or, in the absence of an officer, the
officer in charge at the scene.

If stand-by personnel are requested to respond to the scene in their own personal vehicle, it should be
done in an appropriate manner and shall park no closer than 500 feet from fire apparatus.

1-1-95 1-21-11 1 of 1
4-2 EMERGENCY RESPONSE ALARM TYPES

Type of Call

First Due from LEFT
EMS
Support 1 (EMS units direct to scene)
EMS
Structure Fire
Hydrant Area
Engine 1 Engine 2 Squad 1 Support 1
w/Trailer
Engine 3
Structure Fire
Non-Hydrant or freezing temperatures
Engine 1 Tender 1 Engine 2 Squad 1 Support 1
w/Trailer
Alarm/Smoke Investigation

Engine 1 Engine 2
Brush/Grass Fire

Brush 1 Tender 1 Engine 3 Engine 2
Vehicle Fire

Engine 1 Engine 2
Vehicle Fire
U.S. Hwy 53 Freeway
Engine 1 Tender 1 Squad 1
10-50PI
Squad 1 Support 1 Engine 1
10-50PI
injuries or extrication
Squad 1 Support 1 Engine 1
10-50
no injury
Squad 1
Hazardous Materials/
Fluid Spills
Squad 1 Engine 1 Support 1 w/Trailer
Atmospheric Detection Alarms
(hazardous environment, CO)
Engine 1
Water Rescue
(Lake Altoona or Eau Claire River)
Boat 1 Support 1 Squad 1 Engine 1
Ice Rescue
(any waterway)
Squad 1 Support 1
w/Trailer
Engine 1
Special Rescue
(High angle, confined space, special circumstances)
Squad 1 Support 1
w/Trailer
Engine 1
(High angle, confined space, special circumstances) w/Trailer
Chippewa Valley
Regional Airport
ALERT 2 Tender 1
ALERT 3 Tender 1 & Altoona Rescue
Other Mutual Aid
(not automatic dispatch per contract)
MABAS or Special Request
Fire Service Calls Not Classified
Above
Engine 1 = Per Officer/Senior Firefighter in Charge
The type of response shall be determined by the nature of the call, officer, or senior firefighter at the
station until Incident Command has been established. The following is a guideline for response starting
with the first due vehicle listed from LEFT TO RIGHT. This is general guideline, circumstances may
require more or less, based on the decision of the officer in charge.

1-1-95 1-21-11 1 of 4
4-3 EMERGENCY RESPONSE MABAS/MUTUAL AID

PURPOSE
The purpose of this guideline is to establish a policy to properly handle requests for Department services
and/or resources by other agencies outside of the normal response area. and/or resources by other agencies outside of the normal response area.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all employees of the Department involved in response.

MABAS - Mutual Aid Box Alarm System

participate in the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS). MABAS is a mutual aid organization that
originated in the consist of over 600 agencies in Wisconsin,
Illinois and Iowa
Each Division is made up of local fire departments within a particular county. This mutual aid
organization increases the resources available for a large scale incident when the resources that are organization increases the resources available for a large scale incident when the resources that are
required exceed what the local agencies can provide. All the fire agencies based in Eau Claire County
are designated as MABAS Division 126.

Box Cards

Each fire department in Eau Claire County has pre-planned response cards consisting of progressive
-planned resources to the scene of the
incident. This eliminates the need for the Incident Commander to try and remember or chose what
he/she is requesting from a particular agency. The Box Cards are pre-planned out so if more resources
are needed, the Incident Commander upgrades the alarm level. As the alarm level increases, the
resources increase to help mitigate the incident. Each section of a box card is explained below:

Local Dispatch Area
There are two (2) levels of Local Alarms, which is the normal Department response to the type
of incident. The Local Dispatch Area of each box card is NOT considered a MABAS response.

Local 1
st
Alarm t alarm assignment to an incident.

Local 2
nd
Alarm
incident. Usually called for after confirmation of a true incident. (PD confirms ,
Comm.Center receives multiple calls, evidence of working fire upon arrival, etc.)
MABAS Box Alarms
There are five (5) levels of MABAS Alarms.

-Box Alarm The first level of a MABAS response. This brings additional resources to
the scene in addition to the local alarm resources.

-MABAS 2
nd
Alarm 5
th
Alarm- Progressive levels of a MABAS response. This alarm
level, and all consecutive alarm levels, bring additional resources from around the area.

NOTE: It is important for the units calling for mutual aid to specify between a Local Response and a
MABAS response. Personnel need to actually say the words LOCAL or MABAS when requesting MABAS response. Personnel need to actually say the words LOCAL or MABAS when requesting
resources. (EXAMPLE: Local 2
nd
Alarm vs. MABAS 2
nd
Alarm)

Inter-Divisional Responses
Once an incident grows beyond the resources of a 5
th
Alarm, the Incident Commander may
request resources such as a Strike Team and/or Task Force from neighboring MABAS Divisions.
Each Division has a pre-planned procedure for organizing Task Forces and/or Strike Teams
which expedites the response.

Box Alarm Types
There are 9 types of box alarm cards, each for the type of incident it is. These types are:

-Structure Fire (hydrant area)
-Structure Fire (non-hydrant area) -Structure Fire (non-hydrant area)
-Brush Fire
-EMS/Life Safety
-Ice/Water Rescue
-Hazardous Materials
-Technical Rescue
-Disaster
-Target Hazard Target hazards are classified as two types of occupancies:

-RESIDENTIAL Occupancies that have a large residential occupancy larger than a
etc. where additional resources could be needed for a large scale rescue operation.

-COMMERCIAL Commercial or Industrial occupancies with large fire loads and/or
special hazards that require more resources than the standard structure fire response. special hazards that require more resources than the standard structure fire response.

Resources
Resources are organized in the following categories:

Ambulance Vehicle whose primary function is the care and transport of sick or injured
persons. Minimum crew of two (2) paramedics for ALS, two (2) EMT-

Engine Vehicle whose primary function is the delivery of water to the incident.
Minimum crew of four (4) or more firefighters.

Tender Water transport vehicle of at least 1250 gallons of water. Minimum crew of two
(2) firefighters.

Truck Vehicle whose primary function is performing search/rescue/ventilation work
and/or elevated master streams via an aerial platform, ladder, or other elevated device.
Minimum crew of four (4) or more firefighters.

Squad Vehicle whose primary function is to provide personnel and/or heavy rescue
support. Minimum crew of four (4) or more firefighters.

Brush Truck Vehicle whose primary function is fighting wildland/brush fires. Brush Truck Vehicle whose primary function is fighting wildland/brush fires.
Minimum crew of two (2) or more firefighters.

Chief Chief officer who would be in a Command role at an incident or in charge of a
Strike Team or Task Force.

MABAS Responses
As a participating department in MABAS Division 126, the Altoona Fire Department could be called
u
resources listed on the Box Alarm Cards. A copy of the Box Alarm Cards are in each Department
vehicle as well as at the base radio station.

Inter-Divisional Responses
The Altoona Fire Department could be called upon to dedicate resources as part of a Strike Team or
Task Force from Division 126. If this happens, the request would come through the Eau Claire
Communications Center who would notify one of the MABAS Division 126 officers. The MABAS
officer would contact each department and organize what is requested using resources from the entire
Division. For example, a Task Force could consist of engines from Altoona, Eau Claire, & Township, a
squad from Augusta, a truck from Fall Creek and a chief from Eau Claire.

The MABAS officer will request that each fire department be paged for a fire officer to contact them.
The senior fire officer or senior firefighter shall discuss resources requested and the availability of these
not to respond due to maintenance, personnel available, other incidents going on, etc. The decision to
respond or take a pass will be determined by the senior fire officer or senior firefighter in charge at the
time. time.

RESPONDING TO MUTUAL AID REQUESTS
The Altoona Fire Department may be called upon by a neighboring agency to assist with personnel or
equipment. When this happens, Altoona Fire shall respond only what resources are requested by the
requesting agency, or if using the MABAS system, only the resources listed on the box card. The senior
officer and/or Crew Chief shall link up with the requesting agency's incident commander to form a
Unified Incident Command and to assist them to communicate with Altoona Fire units. This person
should be familiar with basic Incident Command and radio operations to potentially work on several
different radio frequencies or be prepared to fill a command role as assigned by their command staff.
All mutual aid responses by the Altoona Fire Department shall be by request only. When an Incident
Commander from another department requires more resources, he/she may call for additional help from
neighboring agencies as part of the local mutual aid agreements or on a larger scale by requesting a
MABAS response. Likewise, when an incident expands beyond the capabilities of Altoona, the IC can
request resources from other agencies either using the MABAS system or by calling for single resources.

80/20 Rule
A good rule to remember when ordering resources from another agency, or providing resources to
someone else, is the 80/20 rule. This means to only request up to 20%
resources, keeping 80% in their home response area.

The Altoona Fire Department will commit the following resources for any mutual aid call:
Up to one (1) engine
Any other combination of resources, up to a total of three (3) pieces of apparatus.

When Altoona Fire Department employees respond to these types of calls, report to the Incident
Commander before arriving on the scene and request orders. Identify yourself as to department and type
of vehicle. Example

When responding to mutual aid responses, keep in mind that the requesting agency is in command and
we will work into their command structure.

SIMULTANEOUS DISPATCH
The Township Fire Department and the City of Altoona Fire Department both agree that there are The Township Fire Department and the City of Altoona Fire Department both agree that there are
certain geographical areas within their ju
respond more promptly than their own. In these areas, both departments agree that crews from both
agencies shall be summoned. In the event that crews from both agencies arrive at the scene, the crew
whose jurisdiction the scene is located in shall be in charge of operations.

The Altoona Fire Department is dispatched through the Eau Claire Communications Center. The
Township Fire Department and Altoona Fire Department have entered into an agreement for both
agencies to respond simultaneously to areas of U.S. Hwy 53, U.S. Hwy 12(Hillcrest Pw.), east of the
City of Altoona into the Town of Washington, the entire Lake Altoona, and all other waterways of
Township Fire response area. The resources needed have been built into the MABAS Box Alarm Cards
as the 1
st
Alarm and 2
nd
Alarm assignments. This includes both fire and EMS response.

When a request for service is received in the response areas covered under this mutual aid contract, the
Department shall respond as if it is part of the first due response area. The first arriving unit shall Department shall respond as if it is part of the first due response area. The first arriving unit shall
establish Incident Command regardless of agency or where the incident is actually located. Transfer of
Command shall be as smooth as possible when it becomes safe to do so. Both agencies shall perform
their duties as if they are from one department.

Borderless EMS Response
The current version of the mutual aid contract with Emergicare establishes an agreement of
between Emergicare, Fall Creek Rescue, and Altoona Rescue. This establishes that
that individual happens to be close to the call.

1-1-95 9-1-11 1 of 6
4-4 EMERGENCY RESPONSE RADIOS

PURPOSE
This guideline establishes Department radio procedures to allow the safest and most efficient
communications possible. communications possible.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all employees regarding all radio communication equipment used by the
Department.

GUIDELINE
The Altoona Fire Department is licensed to operate on a repeated radio frequency, designated by the
FCC, to use to communicate for official business only. The Department has been granted permission to
use other frequencies by the agencies holding the licenses for them. We can use these frequencies held
by other agencies for emergency use only. In the interest of interoperability between agencies, several
common frequencies have been issued by the State to use in mutual aid situations or where multiple
agencies are working together so they can have a common channel to use. agencies are working together so they can have a common channel to use.

Appendix E***

All radios (vehicles and portables) shall be programmed the same as much as possible. If a portable
radio does not have the full 58 channels that are available in the master frequency list, then it will have a
partial list of the channels starting with channel 1 going up to the capacity of that particular radio.
(example: a 16 channel radio shall have channels 1 through 16 of the frequency list)

Radio Users
All radio users are expected to know the basics of talking on the radio. Good communication and
listening skills are essential. All employees are expected to be proficient in working with radio
equipment. The radio is very important. Your life or the life of a fellow firefighter may depend on your
radio skills.

BASICS -
Be familiar with all radio procedures, protocols, language, and terms.
DO NOT use slang or inappropriate language at any time.
Speak in a clear, calm, and normal voice with normal speaking tone and volume. No yelling into
the radio!
Be professional at all times, avoid radio feedback.
Report any malfunction, damage, or missing parts to a supervisor immediately.

Vehicle Radios

Use the vehicle headsets if equipped.
Be familiar with the radio operations such as the scan, how to change the scan list, and changing
frequencies.
Monitor the main radio frequency at all times for any traffic.

Portable Radios
All fire officers should be issued a portable radio to use whenever needed. Some other employees may
be issued a portable radio from the EMS Division as well. There are several portable radios available for
use in each vehicle.

Employees that use a portable radio shall be held responsible for the all of the above plus:
Maintain constant contact with the radio. Do not leave it in a vehicle, outside, in a public place,
or in any area where it may be lost, stolen, or damaged. Make sure it is ready to be used if
needed.
Do not allow the radio to get wet. Most are water resistive but not water proof.
Avoid extreme temperatures. Freezing and extremely high temperatures may damage the radio
components.
Maintain a rotation with charging the batteries. DO NOT charge a battery if it is partially used,
allow the battery to drain completely before charging to avoid developing a memory in it.
Treat the radio with respect. Do not drop it. Keep the outside clean and free of dirt, debris, and
scratches.
Radios must not be altered electronically or on the outside in any way without prior approval of
the Fire Chief or designee.

Base Radio
The Department has a base radio in what is designated the Radio Room. There are two base radios there,
one primary and one secondary. Once all the vehicles are properly staffed, employees can put the base in
service to record unit times and other radio traffic from AFD units.
It will be manned only after all proper vehicles are manned. A trained Explorer could also
operate the base radio.
The Radio Room is to be restricted during operations to keep distractions and noise to a
minimum. The only people that should be in the Radio Room are the base operator, an assistant
if needed, and persons doing reports.
Personnel in the Radio Room must shut off radios and pagers to prevent feedback during any
base radio transmission.
The base operator must be prepared and familiar with procedures involving calling for utilities,
extra resources, mutual aid, map reading and giving directions, accurate time keeping and
number management, report procedures and radio operations.
The base shall be cleared only after ALL units have arrived back at the station.

Example:

There are two radios at the base station. The primary radio shall always stay on AFD F1. The second
radio shall be the scanning radio to scan the rest of the frequencies. If scanning is not desired, this radio
can be placed on a single frequency but shall not be placed on AFD F1 or AFD F2 to prevent feedback.

Ten Codes vs. Plain Language
NFPA suggests using plain language when talking on the radio. The Altoona Fire Department uses
plain language for all radio traffic.
station, etc) Personnel shall identify which unit they are and what they are doing. For example when a
unit is responding to a call they will advise on the radio When a unit arrives on
scene they will advise, When a unit returns to the station they will advise
This reduces the chances for confusion in using 10-codes, especially
with mutual aid companies. When you respond to a mutual aid agency personnel shall advise the agency
as well.

Example: Example:

Employees need to be familiar with the Ten Code in case you are put in a situation when you need to
know them. For example, the Eau Claire County Communications Center will dispatch a motor vehicle
crash with injuries as a -50PI
to use plain language in all circumstances. The following Ten Codes could be used in a dispatch for
service:

The Ten Codes you need to know are:

10-
10- Emergency/Immediately
10-50PI njury
10-79
10-89
10-96 10-96

ALTOONA FIRE RADIO I.D. NUMBERING SYSTEM

800----------------------------------FIRE CHIEF
801----------------------------------ASSISTANT CHIEF
803----------------------------------CAPTAIN
804----------------------------------CAPTAIN
805----------------------------------LIEUTENANT
806----------------------------------LIEUTENANT
807----------------------------------LIEUTENANT
808----------------------------------LIEUTENANT
809----------------------------------Spare Officer Radio
810----------------------------------FIRE SECRETARY
811-845----------------------------FIREFIGHTERS BASED ON SENIORITY 811-845----------------------------FIREFIGHTERS BASED ON SENIORITY
850-899----------------------------EMS ONLY PERSONNEL BASED ON SENIORITY

COMMUNICATIONS PLAN

PURPOSE
It is the intent of this department to establish a standard for radio frequency assignments to make
communications on the fire ground as safe and efficient as possible. By using this frequency assignment
guideline, the Incident Commander can assure each function has good communications throughout the
incident. This plan is and needs to stay flexible to grow or reduce in size as the incident changes.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all fire related incidents that are within the first due response area of the This guideline shall apply to all fire related incidents that are within the first due response area of the
Altoona Fire Department. It is not a requirement to use this guideline on all incidents. It is up to the sole
discretion of the Incident Commander to initiate, modify, use in part, or omit this plan based on
circumstances of the incident and the information available.

Association, and the Eau Claire County Emergency Government communications plans.

COMMAND-------------------AFD F1 repeater

or MARC 1 if the incident is large enough for mutual aid departments coming in would not have
the local repeater channel of AFD F1.

or ECEM if an area wide incident and the MARC 1 repeater is being used by other nearby or ECEM if an area wide incident and the MARC 1 repeater is being used by other nearby
counties.

FIREGROUND---------------FG RED

STAGING----------------------IFERN

WATER SUPPLY/
WATER RESCUE------------FG BLUE

EMS OPERATIONS---------EMS B or EMS C

HELICOPTER LZ-----------MARC 2

HAZMAT OPERATIONS--MARC 3

LOGISTICS, PIO, &
SUPPORT FUNCTIONS----FG WHITE

EVACUATION----------------MARC 4 or POINT TO POINT
(should be coordinated with law enforcement)

Additional channels------------VTAC 1, 2, 3, 4, NATSAR, and VCALL
BACK-UP RADIO PROCEDURE

The repeater can be tested by doing a radio check on F-1 with the Communications
Center or another Altoona Fire unit. If it is determined the repeater does not work, follow
this procedure. In any event of a radio failure no matter how small, a fire officer should
be contact ASAP. The officer will determine if a contract radio service needs to be
contacted.

REPEATER LOCATION
The radio repeater is located inside the water tower, 1000 block of North Moonlight The radio repeater is located inside the water tower, 1000 block of North Moonlight
Drive. The key to access the water tower is in the lock box in the radio room. All fire
officers have a key to this lock box.

Repeater Failure
The most common reason the repeater will not work is due to power failure at the water
tower site. In most cases, the repeater will be up and running when the power is restored.

1. Obtain the key to the water tower and go to the water tower to trouble shoot the
repeater.

Check to make sure the repeater has power: Check to make sure the repeater has power:
-Make sure the repeater is plugged into the outlet properly
-Make sure the breaker in the outlet is reset

If the tower does not have power, the red marker light on top of the tower
will not be working and the interior lights will not come on.

Contact Xcel Energy 1
st
: 1-800-895-1999 2
nd
: 1-800-771-7300
Identify yourself as a representative of the Altoona Fire Department and
inform the operator of the water tower having no power which affects
emergency radio communications. Try to obtain an ETA of when power
will be restored and give them a contact phone number to call when power
is restored.

2. After contacting Xcel Energy, contact the Eau Claire Communications Center 2. After contacting Xcel Energy, contact the Eau Claire Communications Center
(715-839-4972). Inform the dispatcher that the Altoona Fire Department radio
repeater is down and to switch the radio control station in the Comm.Center to the
non-repeated frequency (F-2).

3. Go to the base radio, switch the base radio to F-2. Page an announcement that the
radio repeater is down and that all operations will be on F-2 until further notice.

NOTE: With the Comm.Center working on F-2, (non-repeated), paging operations will
trip the pagers in most cases. Signal strength will be affected however all radio operations
can function as normal, just not through the repeater.

4. Once the power is restored, contact the Eau Claire Emergency Center and inform
the dispatcher of the situation. The dispatcher shall switch the control station back
to the repeated frequency, F-1.

5. Once the control station in the Comm.Center is switched back to F-1, do a radio
check with the dispatcher to confirm the repeater is back up and running.

6. If it works properly, switch the base radio back to F-1 and page an announcement
that the repeater is back in service. If the repeater is still not functioning, double
check the power to the repeater as stated in step #1. If it still does not power up,
contact radio service at the numbers below. contact radio service at the numbers below.

Antenna Failure
An antenna failure is a major failure that cannot be fixed quickly or easily. The only cure
is replacement. A temporary antenna may be installed by the contract radio service.

If it is determined the antenna has failed, contact radio service:
Two Way Communications Day: 715-832-3202 Night: 715-832-2677

Alternate Frequency
If the repeater will be down for a significant amount of time, the officer in charge should If the repeater will be down for a significant amount of time, the officer in charge should
coordinate with the Eau Claire Communications Center to determine if an alternate
frequency should be used or monitored. Local Government, MARC, or Eau Claire
Emergency Management (ECEM) could be used if a repeater is required.

1-1-95 1-14-12 1 of 4
4-5 EMERGENCY RESPONSE HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

PURPOSE
This guide is intended to establish guidelines for response, authorization, and a procedure for a method This guide is intended to establish guidelines for response, authorization, and a procedure for a method
of handling a hazardous materials incident in a safe, effective, and timely manner.

SCOPE
This guide covers all employees of the Department involved in a Hazardous Material response.

GUIDELINE

LEVEL A: A Level A response is a response in which the chemical substance release or potential
release has been identified and require the highest level of protection based on the degree
of hazard to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
OR
The chemical substance is unknown. The chemical substance is unknown.

LEVEL B: A Level B response is a response in which the chemical substance release or potential
release has been identified and requires maximum respiratory protection and lesser
impermeable protective clothing for skin and eye protection.

LEVEL C: A Level C response is a response in which the chemical substance release or potential
release has been identified and the atmospheric contaminants, liquid splashed, or other
direct contact will not adversely affect any exposed skin but respiratory protection is still
required.

LEVEL D: A Level D response is a response in which the chemical substance release or potential
release has been identified and requires no respiratory protection and minimal protection
protection.

RESPONSE
The Altoona Fire Department shall respond to all hazardous material incidents in the City of Altoona,
and automatic mutual aid response areas, for the purpose of evaluation and determining which outside
agency needs to be notified to respond. The Altoona Fire Department shall establish an Incident
Command System and be responsible for the incident command on scene.

The Incident Commander, as per 29CFR 1910.120, the Incident Commander must be trained to the
Operations Level on and preference of the Altoona Fire Department for the Incident
Commander to be trained to the however is not required.

If the incident or materials involved are outside the operational scope of the Department, the Incident
Commander shall notify the proper hazardous materials response team for assistance.
Regional Response Teams State of Wisconsin Regional Hazardous Materials Team for any
level A release or spill.
County Response Teams Eau Claire Fire Department is the contract agency in Eau Claire
County Hazardous Materials Team for any Level B release or spill.

The Altoona Fire Department shall secure the area, set-up a safety zone and prepare to assist the The Altoona Fire Department shall secure the area, set-up a safety zone and prepare to assist the
incoming hazardous response team. The main purpose is to secure the scene and gather information.
Upon request, trained employees could assist with decontamination or other duties with the Level A
team.

NOTIFICATIONS
In the event of a Level A or B hazardous materials incident, the Incident Commander shall notify the
following as soon as possible:
The proper level Hazardous Materials Response Team
Eau Claire County Emergency Government
Department of Natural Resources
Fire Chief
Who shall notify if the situation warrants:
-Altoona City Administrator
-Altoona Mayor

Other informational resources are:
o CHEMTREC 1-800-424-9300--when product is known
o National Response Center 1-800-424-8802
o Shipping company

As soon as possible the IC shall fill out the HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INFORMATION SHEET and
be ready to provide to the State Regional Hazardous Materials Response Team with the information
obtained. They will initially respond with a Chemical Assessment Team (CAT) to obtain information of
product(s) and containers involved to start on an Incident Action Plan.

Response Equipment
Responding vehicles shall be in accordance to the emergency response procedure in this policy. Always
remember the safety of the vehicle and the crew is top priority. The first vehicle responding shall have
atmosphere detection equipment and initial spill containment equipment. Check the wind direction and atmosphere detection equipment and initial spill containment equipment. Check the wind direction and
speed while responding.

Arrival On Scene
Approach uphill and upwind of incident.
Establish incident command.
Evaluate the scene from a distance. Identify the product using binoculars with placards on the
vehicle, bill of lading/shipping papers, or the driver of the vehicle involved.
Secure the scene; limit the number of personnel in the control area to those only with a reason for
being there.
Establish work zones
Hot Zone (exclusion zone)
Warm Zone (decontamination zone)
Cold Zone (support zone/clean zone)
Use atmospheric detection equipment to establish safe zones.
Obtain all available information about the product(s).

Personnel
The only properly trained personnel will be allowed to respond and participate in the incident site
activities. All other personnel will be used for off-site support service.
Personnel that are trained in hazardous materials will assist in the operation only to the level of their
training. termine what their role will be on scene. training. termine what their role will be on scene.

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL TECHNICIAN
Personnel trained to the Technician level can work in any of the 3 different work zones.
Technicians could be called upon by the Regional Level A team to assist in several different aspects of
the incident including wearing all levels of protective clothing up to level A for monitoring, spill
control/confinement, research, or any other duties.

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL OPERATIONS
Personnel trained to the Operations level can work in only the WARM or COLD work zones. All
personnel trained to hazardous material operations level, shall report to the scene, in full turn out gear
including SCBA. These people will assist the hazardous material response team and will work in pairs.
The State Regional Hazardous Materials Team will be expecting about 5 teams if possible. These
personnel will be expected to set up and operate the decontamination line and processes. personnel will be expected to set up and operate the decontamination line and processes.

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AWARENESS
Personnel trained to the Operations level can work in only the COLD zone. All personnel trained to
awareness level will be used to assist in the perimeter security, evacuation, firefighting activities, setting
up zones, and assisting in setting up decontamination. (Decon will be set up before any entry is made.)

Medical Monitoring
Provisions for emergency treatment of all personnel shall be established. All personnel involved in site
activities shall have base line vitals recorded. All individuals that are in direct contact with the
hazardous materials shall be decontaminated before entering the medical treatment area. A Medical
Officer shall be established and be responsible for personnel monitoring, patient treatment and
decontamination and rehabilitation. decontamination and rehabilitation.

The Medical Officer shall:
have be trained to
Be at least trained to the Emergency Medical Technician level.
Obtain baseline screening of all personnel involved.
Obtain periodic medical exams, during the incident.
Establish a treatment area in the COLD zone.

Responding to Transportation Fires
When an alarm is received for this type of fire/accident, the following will be used:

In case of railroad car fires, the first due unit shall report to the Altoona Railroad Depot to check
the waybill and identify the contents and relay information to the fire units. If the rail car is
within a train or block of cars, contents of cars coupled on either end of fire car will also have to
be identified.
In the case of truck or trailer fires, the waybill/shipping papers will be obtained from the driver
or driver's door. If the driver cannot provide the necessary information, or the information is
unobtainable, contact the trucking company for information.
If at all possible, note the placard.

1-1-95 1-21-11 1 of 3
4-6 EMERGENCY RESPONSE WATER RESCUE & RECOVERY

PURPOSE PURPOSE
To provide a guideline for safe operations and uniform approach for both the rescuers and the victims
involved in the removal of a victim(s) from water using rescue equipment and techniques.

SCOPE
This policy shall apply to all Altoona Fire Department personnel working at a water rescue/recovery
operation. The Altoona Fire Department shall follow all National and State standards in relation to the
purchase and use of water rescue equipment.

DEFINITIONS
PFD- Personal Floatation Device
Throw Bag-
one end, the bag can be thrown to a conscious victim.
Gumby Suit- A cold-water rescue suit that provides insulation against the cold and provides additional Gumby Suit- A cold-water rescue suit that provides insulation against the cold and provides additional
floatation.
Rescue Sled-

INITIAL RESPONSE

BOAT 1
A portable radio will always accompany the boat.
Mutual Aid will be called. (Township Fire, Eau Claire Fire if needed)

Township Fire shall be dispatched for any incident involving fire or a potential rescue on Lake Altoona
or the Eau Claire River. Per mutual aid contracts, Altoona Fire shall respond to any water way in
Township Fire response area for the same type of calls.

TRANSPORTATION TO THE SCENE
The terrain, launching site, and distance will govern the towing vehicle of the boat. The driver shall stay
with the vehicle whenever possible. It can be towed by BRUSH 1, SUPPORT 1, or SQUAD 1.

STAFFING
Minimum/maximum staffing of personnel in the boat shall be strictly followed for safety and to prevent
the overloading of the boat. Personnel responding will be committed until a relief crew can be
organized.

River and Lake Operations Minimum Maximum
BOAT 1 2 3

Lake or River operations:
Complete crew consists of:
ON SHORE
DRIVER VEHICLE DRIVER VEHICLE
OPERATOR BOAT
BOAT
BACK- ON SHORE

Personal Protective Equipment
Depending on the temperature, clothing will be as lightweight as possible.
Helmets will be worn for identification.
Turn out gear will be left on shore.
Personal floatation device (PFD) shall be worn at all times when on the water.

Qualifications
Everyone on the rescue team should be a strong swimmer.
Have Department training on boat operations and rescue procedures.
Be familiar with boat operations and familiar with local geography.

RESPONSE AREA
Lake Altoona (including below the dam)
Lake Altoona is both the responsibility of Altoona Fire and Township Fire equally. Any response to
Lake Altoona, Township Fire should be notified for additional boats and/or personnel. Call Eau Claire
Fire, Chippewa Fire District or Township Fire for divers if needed.

Water Access
-Lake Altoona
Boat landing Lake Altoona Park @ 604 N. Beach Rd City of Altoona
Boat landing 500 Indian Hills Drive Town of Seymour

-Lake Altoona Dam
Emergency Boat Launch US Hwy 53, NB ramp from River Prairie Drive City of Altoona Emergency Boat Launch US Hwy 53, NB ramp from River Prairie Drive City of Altoona
Emergency Boat Launch Altoona Dam Access @ 4197 North Shore Drive Town of Seymour

Eau Claire & Chippewa Rivers
The Eau Claire River is also shared responsibility with Township Fire East of the City Limits into the
Town of Washington

Water Access
-Eau Claire River
Boat landing 7500 North Shore Drive Town of Seymour
Emergency Boat Launch US Hwy 53, NB ramp from River Prairie Drive City of Altoona

-Chippewa River
Emergency Boat Launch Owen Park @ 401 1
st
Ave. City of Eau Claire
Boat Landing Hobbs Ice Arena @ 1 10
th
Ave. City of Eau Claire

River Operations
Back up personnel will be on both sides of the river.
A lifeline shall be used at all times.
The person in charge will stay on shore at all times and in sight of operations.
PFDs must be worn at all times.
No private boats will be allowed in the area without obtaining permission from the crew chief or No private boats will be allowed in the area without obtaining permission from the crew chief or
officer in charge.

ICE/COLD WATER OPERATIONS
As with the lake or river operations, the Incident Command shall remain on shore.

General
Department vehicles are not to be taken on the ice for any reason any time
Anyone within 10 feet of the water shall be wearing a PFD
Anyone working within 10 ft. of open water shall be secured by a lifeline
The rescue sled can only be operated by one person
Anyone using the Rescue Alive sled must be wearing a rescue suit preferably, or at least a PFD
or other approved floatation device
Anytime the rescue sled is used it shall be secured to the shore with a dedicated rope tender Anytime the rescue sled is used it shall be secured to the shore with a dedicated rope tender
EMS crews should be ready to receive a victim and have any and all equipment necessary ready
for use. There should be a warm area ready to receive a victim.

Primary Rescuer
Only personnel trained to use the rescue suits will be allowed to use them
Shall be secured with a carabineer on shore at all times with a dedicated rope tender
Shall have a dedicated spotter and rope tender at all times
Shall always have a back up rescuer ready to go at all times

Back up Rescuer
Only personnel trained to use the rescue suits will be allowed to use them
Shall be secured with a carabineer on shore at all times with a dedicated rope tender
Shall have a dedicated spotter and rope tender at all times
Shall be ready to go to assist in rescue if needed Shall be ready to go to assist in rescue if needed

Spotters
At least two (2) spotters from different vantage points should be watching the victim at all times
to guide the rescuers into the proper location.

Other items can be used such as an extension ladder placed on the ice, an air filled hose or another
device or operation, which will be at the discretion of the Incident Commander.

1-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 3
4-7 EMERGENCY RESPONSE CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS

PURPOSE
This guideline establishes a standard of response for atmospheric testing and monitoring at incidents This guideline establishes a standard of response for atmospheric testing and monitoring at incidents
involving carbon monoxide (CO) or any other atmospheric alarm.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all Department employees who respond to atmospheric alarms.

GUIDELINE
All atmospheric alarms and reports should be considered life threatening to both the occupant and the
response team until verified otherwise. Initial responders should take precautions prior to entering a
structure. The response to carbon monoxide condition requires specific actions, recommendations,
observations and documentation. The primary concern of course is the safety of the occupants and of
emergency response personnel.

Response
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas that can be deadly. It is a by-product
of combustion. CO reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of hemoglobin by binding to hemoglobin and
preventing the binding of oxygen. The affinity with which CO binds to hemoglobin is more than 200
times that of oxygen.

Gas: 0.968 (air = 1.000)

Many appliances such as furnaces, kitchen stoves, hot water heaters, automobiles, etc., can produce
carbon monoxide. When a faulty device or unusual conditions exist, carbon monoxide may be vented
into areas where people are present.
Carbon monoxide poisoning may be difficult to diagnose. Its symptoms are similar to that of the flu,
which may include headache, nausea, fatigue and dizzy spells for low levels and convulsions,
unconsciousness, and death for high levels.

Determine severity of call. If it is a detector alarm only, ENGINE 1 will respond initially to assess the
situation. If there is any indication of illness, Incident Command should request EMS respond
immediately.

First arriving unit assumes command and evaluates the situation. Interview the occupant(s) to find
information of the following:
Check to see if everyone is out.
Check to see if anyone has any sudden illness (headache, nausea, flu symptoms, etc.). If so,
contact EMS.
Check to see if the residence doors and windows are closed or open.
If open, close for 15 minutes before checking for CO.
Try to reenact what was happening at the time the Carbon monoxide detector sounded. Turn on
the furnace, stove, gas water heater, gas fireplace, gas dryer, etc. that might have been on when
the alarm sounded. Also, turn on any type of equipment that exhausts air to the outside. (Exhaust
fans, dryers, stove fans, etc.)
Advise incoming units of situation and make sure that the test equipment is turned on en route.
Use the CO checklist to help with scene and patient assessments.

Procedure

OPERATE AS IF IT IS AN EXPLOSIVE ENVIRONMENT UNTIL PROVEN OTHERWISE.

Turn on the gas meter and let it ZERO in clean air and do calibration checks.
Take initial reading just inside the door. If readings are 35ppm (parts per million) or higher, SCBA
is required to enter building.
Begin monitoring the lower levels of the building and then proceed to the higher levels.
Be sure to check all areas, especially areas that include utility spaces, kitchens, and attached
garages. CO will seek low levels to accumulate.
Use the Carbon Monoxide Checklist to record CO levels found

(SEE APPENDIX Figure F Carbon Monoxide Checklist)

The Environmental Protection Agency has established that residential levels are
not to exceed 9 ppm over an 8-hour average. If reading is over 9 ppm and the cause is not determined;
the owner should be notified that the levels of CO are potentially dangerous. Recommend that all the owner should be notified that the levels of CO are potentially dangerous. Recommend that all
persons leave the residence and begin ventilating. Inform the owner to contact the gas company or
heating contractors to determine the exact cause for the CO level in the residence.

If the reading is over 100 ppm:
Inform the owner that the levels detected are potentially lethal.
Order the occupants to leave the premises immediately.
Inform owners that immediate action needs to be taken and that the residence should remain
unoccupied until the CO levels decrease to a safe level.

It is not the responsibility of the Department to correct or repair the problem, only to confirm to the
occupants that a dangerous condition exists. Advise them to open windows and if they choose to leave
the structure assist them in doing so.

QUESTION/PROBLEMS
First Alert has a 24 hours customer service hotline that can be called by owner as well as Fire
Departments and they will help answer any technical questions. 1-800-323-9005
In the event of high readings forcing the occupants to leave their residence for the night, contact the Red
Cross for alternate lodging.

RANGE OF TOXICITY
Mild Toxicity
100 ppm Tightness across forehead, slight headache
Pupil dilation, slight redness of the face
100-200 ppm Headache, throbbing in temples
Face flushed
Moderate Toxicity
400-600 ppm Severe headache, weakness & dizziness,
nausea & vomiting, collapse
700-1000 ppm Increased tendency to collapse & syncope
Increased pulse and respiratory rate Increased pulse and respiratory rate
Severe Toxicity
1000-1500 ppm Increased pulse and respiratory rate,
Coma with intermittent seizures
1500-3000 ppm Coma with intermittent seizures, Depressed
heart action & respirations,
Death possible
5000-10,000 ppm Weak pulse, depressed respirations,
Respiratory failure and death


1-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 1
4-8 EMERGENCY RESPONSE EMERGENCY EVACUATION

PURPOSE
To establish the procedure for a quick and safe emergency evacuation of emergency responders To establish the procedure for a quick and safe emergency evacuation of emergency responders
operating at emergency incidents or training exercises when conditions rapidly become unsafe.

SCOPE
This policy will apply to all Department employees operating at any emergency scene or training area.

DEFINITIONS

Emergency Evacuation Tone: A special tone broadcast across the radio frequency by the Eau Claire
County Communications Center when an evacuation is ordered at an emergency scene.

Emergency Evacuation Horn: A manually operated air horn from a fire apparatus or a hand held horn
carried by Incident Command. carried by Incident Command.

GUIDELINE
At an incident or training exercise where activities or conditions are judged by the Incident Commander
and/or Safety Officer, or another source, to be unsafe or involve an impending hazard, making it
necessary for personnel to be evacuated as soon as possible, the following procedure SHALL be
followed:

Upon order of the Incident Commander and/or Safety Officer, a verbal order to evacuate a
structure shall be announced over the radio three (3) times. All other radio traffic must cease
during this announcement. Also the Incident Commander and/or Safety Officer may request
from the Eau Claire Communications Center for the Emergency Evacuation Tone be broadcast
on the Altoona Fire main radio frequency.
All fire apparatus on the scene shall simultaneously operate their air horns with three (3) short All fire apparatus on the scene shall simultaneously operate their air horns with three (3) short
blasts of three (3) seconds each.
Immediately upon completion of the evacuation signal, the Incident Commander will call for a
Personal Accountability Report (PAR) of all personnel and units on scene.

At the sounding of the evacuation signal, all personnel shall evacuate the hazard area immediately using
ANY MEANS NECISSARY!!!


1-1-95 1-10-11 1 of 3
4-9 EMERGENCY RESPONSE

PURPOSE
To establish the training, use, and operation of a uniform way of notifying the Incident Commander and
all persons working at a training or incident that a firefighter is in serious trouble and needs immediate all persons working at a training or incident that a firefighter is in serious trouble and needs immediate
help. This policy can reduce the possibility of firefighter deaths and serious injuries by notifying others
that a firefighter is in extreme danger and needs assistance before it becomes too late to act.

SCOPE
This policy shall apply to all Department employees working in and around an emergency incident or
training ground. To minimize misunderstandings and confusion, the terminology used below is
mandatory.

ALL employees must be completely familiar with this terminology and use it exclusively
for its intended purpose.

MAY-DAY MAY-DAY
This is an attention getting emergency radio transmission called on the radio by a firefighter that is in
imminent danger of serious injury or death and is to be used with serious discretion. The term
where immediate communication is necessary to protect life or prevent serious injury. Whenever a
between the member initiating the emergency, the Incident Commander or his designee, and the
Communications Center are allowed. This is extremely important to relay vital information for a
firefighter rescue or to obtain information on the location of a trapped firefighter. Normal radio traffic
ONLY after it has been cleared by the Incident Commander.

indication that a life-threatening situation has developed. It may only be used
in the following situations:

A structural collapse or partial collapse has occurred A structural collapse or partial collapse has occurred
A firefighter has become unconscious or suffers from a life threatening injury
A firefighter becomes lost or is trapped
An officer becomes aware that a firefighter under his/her supervision is missing (if the officer is
missing the crew can transmit this message)

A MAYDAY should be given in the following format:
The firefighter declaring the emergency shall call the Incident Commander on the radio as soon as
he/she determines that the situation meets the requirements for a MAYDAY. Once this is realized,
it is important that the firefighter declare it as soon as possible. The firefighter should use the attention
getting phrase MAYDAY three times if possible to ensure the emergency traffic is heard.
A MAYDAY should include the following information using the LUNAR acronym:
Location of emergency Where is the distressed firefighter?
What Floor
What Room (bedroom, kitchen, bathroom)
Location by direction (North/South/East/West)
Side of building (Side A, B, C, or D)
Initial entrance point

Unit What unit on the fireground is the firefighter assigned to?

Name What is the name of the firefighter that is in trouble?

Air Supply How much air does the firefighter have?

Resources What is the problem firefighter is experiencing and what is need to help?

==========================================================================
Example: n 1 to Command MAYDAY-MAYDAY-MAYDAY

The Incident Commander will respond This is

The member declaring the MAYDAY will respond with their situation

-MAYDAY-MAYDAY--- Division 1 to Command I am in the kitchen area, first floor Side
Charlie, I am assigned to Division 1, Firefighter Johnson. I have 2200lbs. of air left and fell through the

==========================================================================

The Incident Commander shall immediately assign specific crews to assist the location of the emergency
and whatever resources are needed to perform a firefighter rescue.

Personnel that declare a MAYDAY should keep calling Command using the word MAYDAY until they
get a response. Radio transmissions are to be kept to an absolute minimum or the rescue efforts
should switch to another channel. During the time a MAYDAY is called, it is imperative that all
firefighters put forth their best efforts to bring a safe and quick ending to the incident. This will only be
accomplished by calm, coordinated efforts by all personnel. All personnel must be prepared to respond
to any command necessary to fulfill this mission.

During a MAYDAY, all fireground activities should continue. Firefighters need to use the highest
discipline to ensure ongoing suppression activities continue unless otherwise directed. Suppression discipline to ensure ongoing suppression activities continue unless otherwise directed. Suppression
efforts and other activities may benefit the firefighters involved in the emergency and may buy time for
the rescue efforts.

The worst case scenario is for all firefighters on the scene stop what they are doing and respond to
lared
and further firefighter injuries or death.

CLEARING A MAYDAY
The firefighters involved shall be taken to the rehab area, checked by EMS personnel and transported to
the hospital for evaluation, if needed. The Incident Commander, Safety Officer or designee may require
transport to the hospital and can order it at anytime.

The Incident Commander should immediately conduct a personal accountability report (PAR) as per the
Personal Accountability Guideline and re-evaluate suppression efforts. The Incident Commander shall
also make a radio announcement that normal radio traffic may resume:

Example: l units, the MAYDAY is cleared, resume normal radio traffic. Example: l units, the MAYDAY is cleared, resume normal radio traffic.


1-1-95 11-14-10 1 of 5
4-10 EMERGENCY RESPONSE PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY

PURPOSE
To establish a uniform accountability guideline for all employees that will provide the Incident
Commander (IC) with a comprehensive roster of all emergency response personnel present at an Commander (IC) with a comprehensive roster of all emergency response personnel present at an
emergency scene. This procedure will also allow the IC to continuously track the location and
assignment of all personnel within the emergency incident perimeter. (NFPA 1500-6-3-1, 1561)

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all Department personnel involved in any incident or training. This
Personnel Accountability System shall be initiated whenever firefighters prepare to enter an immediate
danger to life and health (IDLH) atmosphere, or any time the IC feels that personnel tracking and
accountability is necessary. It shall be the policy of the Altoona Fire Department to account for the
location and safety of all personnel within an EMERGENCY INCIDENT PERIMETER at an
emergency incident.

GUIDELINE GUIDELINE

Personal Accountability

Crew members MUST ALWAYS remain in contact with each other and their Company Officer/Crew
Chief utilizing one of the following methods:
Direct voice contact (no radio)
Direct visual contact
Touch

Where constant awareness of a position or function is known by the remainder of the crew, radio contact
is acceptable for jobs such as the apparatus operator, hydrant person, or Incident Command Staff and
Officers. (Safety, Staging, PIO, etc.)

The success of this system will depend on the personal commitment of all Department personnel. All The success of this system will depend on the personal commitment of all Department personnel. All
personnel are responsible and therefore accountable for their own safety as well as the safety of others.
Each individual must ensure they are assigned to a supervisor. Individual team members report directly
to their team leader.

Each Incident Commander is responsible for the implementation of this system and shall utilize this
system to account for all personnel working at the scene. Incident Commanders, Sector/Division/Group
Officers, and Staff Officers shall maintain constant awareness of the location and function of all
personnel assigned to their direct control.
Crews working in a hazard area or at an emergency scene shall comply with the following:

No firefighter is to participate in, nor be assigned, to a hazardous tactical duty except as a
member of a team of at least two (2) firefighters.

Each team of firefighters shall have a designated team leader. Each team will have at least one
(1) portable radio which shall be assigned to the team leader.

At all times, Total team integrity (i.e., all firefighters assigned to an apparatus or crew and
working as a unit) shall be maintained whenever possible.

Passport Accountability System
The Altoona Fire Department participates in the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS). Eau Claire
County is designated as MABAS Division 126. MABAS utilizes the Passport Accountability System, in
cooperation with adjacent fire departments and districts, which use a standardized system for tracking
the location and assignment of crews, teams, equipment and individuals at an incident scene. This
system is used by all fire departments in Division 126 as well as MABAS divisions throughout
Wisconsin and other states.

Nametags
1. The Department issues each employee four (4), 3 plastic accountability tags.
(Three (3) carried by the firefighter and 1 spare on file in case one gets lost)

2. Each Nametag shall include the following:
a. Rank abbreviated (according to county standards)
b. Last Name (first initial and last name if two or more firefighters share the same name)

3. Each nametag shall have Velcro attached to the back (hook side) to be placed on the passports.

4. Each firefighter shall store their nametags on the bottom brim of their helmet attached by Velcro
and will keep these tags ready to use and in good condition.

Loss of these tags may result in the employee paying for the replacement cost of the lost tag(s).

Passports
1. All Department vehicles are required to have passports, including chief officers if 1. All Department vehicles are required to have passports, including chief officers if
This passport is used to
attach the nametags of firefighters riding in the vehicle.

2. Each Department vehicle has three (3) passports of different colors.
WHITE Primary
RED Back up
GREEN Spare (can be used to make a second working crew from the same vehicle)

These passports shall be in the cab of each vehicle attached to the dash near the Officer/Crew Chief
position on the dash.
3. Each passport shall have the following information:
Agency Name
Vehicle type (Engine, Tender, Brush, Squad, Truck, Chief, Ambulance, Boat, or Support)
Vehicle number or designation
Vehicle qualifiers (Pump size for engines, tank size for tenders, ladder length for trucks)

Each passport shall have Velcro on the front (loop side) to attach nametags and Velcro on the back side
of the passport (hook side) to be attached to the dash of a vehicle, Status Board or Command Board.

Each Command vehicle shall have a make-up kit containing blank nametags and passports with grease
the necessary nametags/passports of mutual aid crews
have them or for lost items. have them or for lost items.

IMPLEMENATION

All Personnel
1. Each firefighter is responsible to present two (2) nametags to the Officer/Crew Chief upon riding
in a Department vehicle regardless of responding to an incident, for training, or any other
activity. These nametags shall be placed on the primary (WHITE) and the back-up (RED)
passport identifying the crew on that particular vehicle.

2. Passports shall reflect the crew currently assigned to the apparatus. Each firefighter shall be
responsible to ensure that they give the Officer/Crew Chief their nametag to be placed on the
company passport should they be relieving a firefighter or are assigned to that particular crew.

3. It will be the responsibility of each firefighter to reclaim their nametags from the Officer/Crew 3. It will be the responsibility of each firefighter to reclaim their nametags from the Officer/Crew
once they are reassigned to another crew or arrive back at the station.

4. If a firefighter is directed individually to an emergency scene he/she shall provide the appropriate
Incident Commander, Staging Officer, or Company Officer his/her Velcro nametag which in turn
shall be placed on the appropriate passport as part of a working crew.

Company Officers/Crew Chiefs
1. It shall be the responsibility of the Officer/Crew Chief of to make sure each firefighter in the
vehicle uses the accountability system.

2. Each Officer/Crew Chief shall maintain two (2) passports per vehicle. Passports are located in
the cab near the officer seat attached to the dash with Velcro. The WHITE passport is the
primary, the RED passport is the back-up. Both passports will be identical with the nametags of primary, the RED passport is the back-up. Both passports will be identical with the nametags of
the firefighters of that apparatus or crew(s) assigned to him/her.

The order of nametags attached to the passports are as follows, from top to bottom:
a. Company Officer/Crew Chief
b. Apparatus driver UPSIDE DOWN (regardless if at the pump or part of the crew)
c. Crew nametags

3. The primary (WHITE) passport is kept by the Officer/Crew Chief, normally under the helmet
brim attached with Velcro, and travels with them until the crew is assigned to a Division/Group
Officer. The passport is then transferred to that particular officer.

4. The back-up (RED) passport is to be kept in the vehicle. The Safety Officer will go to each
vehicle, pick up the passport, and transfer it to the Incident Commander.

5. When a firefighter ational assignment,
the Officer/Crew Chief shall return the nametag to the firefighter.

6. Companies who have adequate personnel and portable radios may split the team into two or
more teams of firefighters. If a company is split into two working teams of at least two (2)
firefighters, the new team requires a new passport (GREEN passport) which the Division/Group
Officer shall use to keep track of assignments. Each team shall have at least one portable radio
and be given a call sign designator. and be given a call sign designator.

7. It will be the responsibility of the Officer/Crew Chief of each vehicle to reclaim his/her primary
crew passport from the Sector/Division/Group Officer and the back-up passport from Incident
Commander upon clearing the scene. Once back at the station, the Officer/Crew Chief shall

Emergency Incidents

Incident Commander
The Incident Commander shall maintain a Command Board of all individuals, apparatus and
crews on the scene as well as their presently assigned duties at all times. A Status Board may be
used to attach crew passports for ease of keeping track of crews.

Incident Commanders shall create nametags and passports for crews who have lost them or for Incident Commanders shall create nametags and passports for crews who have lost them or for
mutual aid companies who do not use the same system.

Safety Officer
At the scene, the Safety Officer will go to each vehicle and collect the back-up (RED) vehicle
passport and give them to the Incident Commander for personnel accountability. The Company
Officer/Crew Chief may deliver it from their vehicle to IC as well.

Sector/Division/Group Officers
Each Sector/Division/Group Officer is responsible to maintain the passport of the teams assigned
under his/her direct supervision.

assignment, the Division/Group Officer shall return the passport to that Officer/Crew Chief.

Staging Officer
The Staging Officer shall collect the primary (WHITE) passport from each crew/vehicle as they report
to the staging area and place the passport on a Status Board. Using the passports, the Staging Officer
shall organize and maintain a resource list for the Incident Commander. When resources are assigned
from or leave the staging area, the passport is returned to the crew/vehicle for later assignment.
At incidents in other jurisdictions
The Company Officer/Crew Chief shall maintain both the primary (WHITE) and the back-up (RED)
passports as listed above and keep them in his/her possession until noted below.

1. Upon arrival at the staging area, the primary (WHITE) passport shall be transferred to the
Staging Officer. When the vehicle is detailed out of staging for an assignment or to return to
quarters, the Officer/Crew Chief shall reclaim their primary passport before leaving the staging
area.

2. In the cases where no Staging Officer has been established and the vehicle arrives on scene, the
Officer/Crew Chief shall deliver the back-up (RED) passport to the Incident Commander for
accountability as soon as possible. accountability as soon as possible.

3. The primary (WHITE) passport shall be kept by the Officer/Crew Chief. The primary passport is
transferred to the appropriate Sector/Division/Group Officer upon given an assignment, if
established. Otherwise, the Officer/Crew Chief shall keep it in his/her possession.

4. Once units have been cleared from the scene, the Officer/Crew Chief shall reclaim his/her
primary passport from their assigned Sector/Division/Group Officer, if assigned to one, and
reclaim the back-up passport from the Incident Commander prior to leaving the scene.

PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY REPORT (PAR)
The Incident Commander shall conduct a personal accountability report (PAR) at the following times:

Any report of a missing or trapped firefighter
Any change from an offensive to defensive mode
Any sudden hazardous event at the incident such as flashover, back draft, collapse, etc.
At 20 minute intervals during the incident
At the start/end of an operational period
Any time a new Incident Commander takes Command
Any time the Incident Command or Safety Officers feels necessary

This system will be used continuously until all units have returned to the station. This system will be used continuously until all units have returned to the station.


1-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 1
4-11 EMERGENCY RESPONSE VIOLENT/SUSPICIOUS CALLS

PURPOSE
This guideline is for response to calls where a potentially dangerous or threatening situation may exist
from a violent individual(s) at the scene of any call of service from the Altoona Fire Department. from a violent individual(s) at the scene of any call of service from the Altoona Fire Department.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all employees of Department that would be responding to these types of
calls. This should also apply to all agencies responding.

POLICY
calls the fire department may be responding to:
Assault/Fight
Domestic Abuse
Suicide
Gunshot Wound Gunshot Wound
Stabbing

No employee shall enter the scene of an emergency paged out as any of these types of calls, or any other
call where a potential danger exists from violent or uncontrollable individuals until cleared to enter by
dispatch or by law enforcement on scene.

The Officer in Charge (OIC), senior responder, or first person on scene must make a determination of a
staging area that is suitable for all units and all agencies responding. Once a staging area has been
established, it must be broadcast to all responding units. All responding units shall respond to the staging
area and remain there until law enforcement or the OIC gives the ok to proceed to the scene.

The staging area MUST:
Be a safe distance from the scene as to not pose a threat or harm to responders.
Be out of sight of the scene, preferably around a corner or a block away. Be out of sight of the scene, preferably around a corner or a block away.
Be large enough to support staging for all responding units.

OIC responsibilities:
Preserve any evidence of a crime while performing your normal duties.
Limit unnecessary personnel from entering the scene.
Pull responding personnel out of scene if he/she feels the situation has escalated to become
violent or threatening and report to the staging area again until the situation is under control.
Be sure all documentation is complete and accurate including supplemental statements for law
enforcement if required.

1-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 1
4-12 EMERGENCY RESPONSE LOCK BOX KEYS

PURPOSE
To provide a guideline for the use of lock box keys by the Altoona Fire Department. This policy is

SCOPE
This policy will pertain to all employees of the Altoona Fire Department.

GUIDELINE
Some building designers and owners have decided to install a secure lock box into their building to
ensure access to that building by the Fire Department or Police Department after hours of operation.
main entryway, commonly referred to as a Knox Box or Supra Box. Each box contains all the keys
necessary to access that entire building for emergency purposes. These boxes are all keyed the same so
one key will open all the boxes in town. There is a list of buildings with Lock Boxes in the
Communication Room and in each vehicle. Communication Room and in each vehicle.

Vehicle key boxes have been installed in each vehicle. This box is a secure combination lock box,
generally in the area of the Crew Chief area of the vehicle. Inside each key box is a lock box key. This
lock box key needs to be secure at all times.

If a lock box key is used, the following must apply:
The lock box key must be accounted for at all times.
Only officers know the combination to the vehicle key boxes.
If a key is needed with no officer available, the Police Department has a key.
The Fire Chief can issue keys to officers at his/her discretion.
The combination of the vehicle key boxes shall be strictly confidential.
Only the Fire Chief or Assistant Fire Chief is able to change the combination.

If a lock box key is used, it is the responsibility of the Officer in Charge or the Crew Chief to make sure If a lock box key is used, it is the responsibility of the Officer in Charge or the Crew Chief to make sure
the lock box is secured and the key is secured after use and it shall be documented in the written report.

If a key is lost or damaged, it must be reported to an officer immediately.


1-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 3
4-13 EMERGENCY RESPONSE THERMAL IMAGING CAMERA

PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to establish a guideline to facilitate the most effective method for deploying The purpose of this policy is to establish a guideline to facilitate the most effective method for deploying
the Thermal Imager.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all employees who use the Thermal Imager at all structure fires or any other
incident where investigation by using the camera would be beneficial to the outcome of the incident.

POLICY
The Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC) detects heat and infrared images through an environment that
images. It also has a feature to colorize the heat image to make it contrast more with the background.
The TIC shall be used on all structure fires and/or any other time the Incident Command feels necessary.
These could be fire alarms, smoke investigations, hazmat situations, search and rescue, etc. The thermal These could be fire alarms, smoke investigations, hazmat situations, search and rescue, etc. The thermal
imager is located in ENGINE 1 in the cab. All personnel shall be familiar with the location of the
camera and the operations of it. The Officer/Crew Chief will be responsible for bringing the TIC into the
structure and will ultimately decide who will operate the TIC.

Since the Altoona Fire Department only operates one TIC, care must be taken to use the TIC according
to the tactical priorities. If performing fire attack and search and rescue duties simultaneously, the
camera will need to be given to the search team during their search for victims. The following are the
tactical priorities as it relates to camera use:

1
st
Priority- Search and Rescue Team
2
nd
Priority- Fire Attack Team
3
rd
Priority- Rapid Intervention Team
4
th
Priority- Salvage and Overhaul Team

Officers/Crew Chiefs should use good judgment in assigning the TIC to get the most beneficial use from Officers/Crew Chiefs should use good judgment in assigning the TIC to get the most beneficial use from
it.

Camera Operation

In moderate to heavy smoke conditions, the camera allows firefighters to quickly search a smoke filled
area. The camera operator must remember not to move too quickly so that the rest of the team does not
get lost in the smoke filled environment. Stay in contact with your team just as you would without the
camera.

The camera has the potential to inspire overconfidence because it allows firefighters to see in an
environment that in reality has zero visibility. Firefighters should remember to stay low even if the
camera shows you that most of the heat is at the ceiling level. The possibility of flashover is still very
real and very possible. Remember to use the same search techniques as without a TIC.

The TIC allows a two dimensional view of a smoke filled environment. Depth perception is limited.
Firefighter operating the camera should remain low to the ground, scanning the entire area before them.
When scanning an area with the TIC begin at the ceiling and end at the floor immediately in front of
them. Walking with TIC is discouraged as trip hazards and missing floors may be overlooked.

- oes not allow an area to
be viewed, which is behind a wall. If fire is present inside a wall, the camera will only be able to detect be viewed, which is behind a wall. If fire is present inside a wall, the camera will only be able to detect
it if the fire has increased the temperature of the wall itself. Fire inside wooden clad walls will be picked
up much more quickly than a wall made of concrete. Normal overhaul procedures must be followed in
order to locate fire extension.

A human being will not provide sufficient thermal energy to penetrate most standard construction
materials or solid items such as furniture. Therefore, it is reinforced that while conducting a search,
rescuers must look under and around beds, sofas, and other objects where victims may have hidden to
escape the fire.

Water, plastic, window screens and glass are all barriers for the TIC and may cause a reflective image.
suspicious images, the crew should wave their arms and determine whether they are seeing their own
image.

e TIC useless for a
few seconds. To correct the problem, aim the camera away from the hot source.

When responding to mutual aid calls, only Altoona Fire Dept. personnel shall operate the camera. DO
NOT give the camera to another agency to use. If they need a camera the camera will come with an
operator from Altoona.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE
When performing routine apparatus checks, the TIC operation should be checked in the following:
Check for cleanliness. If any part of the camera is dirty it may be wiped with a clean, moist cloth.
Be careful to use a soft, non-abrasive cloth to clean the lens.
Turn the camera on and check for proper operation.
After each use the TIC should be cleaned and the battery should be swapped out with the one in After each use the TIC should be cleaned and the battery should be swapped out with the one in
the charger.
Be sure the camera is secured again in the holder.
Any problems with operation or the batteries should be reported immediately.

The camera is designed to be used by firefighters in a hostile environment and is very durable. Take care
not to excessively abuse the camera by hitting it against things or dropping it. The camera is also water
resistive; however, avoid submerging it in water or directly spraying the camera with water.

Remember the TIC is a tool just like all the other equipment and may not be suitable for use in each and
every situation.

1-1-95 11-25-09 1 of 1
4-14 EMERGENCY RESPONSE BOMB THREATS

PURPOSE
To establish a guideline for the response to bomb threats or other threats of violence and/or terrorism to To establish a guideline for the response to bomb threats or other threats of violence and/or terrorism to
assist the police department.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all Department employees who would respond to these types of calls.

GUIDELINE
Law enforcement shall be the lead agency and shall be in command of threats of explosives or other
means of terrorism or violence. Response to bomb threats or other threats of terrorism shall be in a non-
emergency mode. A chief/senior officer shall respond to the scene or area of the threat to make contact
with the Police Department to coordinate operations. All other units shall stage at the fire station and
wait for orders from the Incident Commander. All radio equipment and cell phones will be left in
responding vehicles or be shut off, unless they are intrinsically safe radios. (radio silence) responding vehicles or be shut off, unless they are intrinsically safe radios. (radio silence)

role would be primarily support with providing scene security, heavy equipment, lighting, manpower,
etc. There could be a need for a search to be conducted for suspicious items. If this is required, it shall be
coordinated by law enforcement and participation of Department personnel would be optional.

If a suspicious item is located, the Department shall assist with scene security and support while law
enforcement calls explosives experts to deal with the issue. If there is an explosion of any kind,
personnel will respond only after the scene can be secured by law enforcement officials. Department
personnel shall respond with the utmost sense of caution keeping in mind the possibility of a second
device or other possible hazards.

The Altoona Fire Department personnel shall cooperate and work in conjunction with local, State, and
Federal agencies and make every attempt to accomplish what is requested from law enforcement.

1-1-95 1-21-11 1 of 3
4-15 EMERGENCY RESPONSE NATURAL DISASTERS

PURPOSE
To establish standards of response in the event of a large scale disaster in the City of Altoona. To establish standards of response in the event of a large scale disaster in the City of Altoona.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all Department employees for any natural disaster or major incident
response.

SEVERE WEATHER REPORT AND PROCEDURES
The severe weather sirens are activated from the Eau Claire Communications Center in the event of
severe weather in Eau Claire County. The sirens will only be activated for a
SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING or TORNADO WARNING for Eau Claire County. A
Weather Warning tone on the Altoona Fire Department main radio frequency will be issued by the
Communications Center with all weather watches and warnings from the National Weather Service
affecting Eau Claire County. The page will have information on what type of weather condition exists affecting Eau Claire County. The page will have information on what type of weather condition exists
and details of the watch or warning.

WATCH
Weather conditions in the area are capable of producing severe weather or there is a potential for severe
weather to develop in the area.

WARNING
Severe weather has been confirmed in the area by weather information gathering procedures and is
capable of producing damaging winds, heavy rain, hail, lightning, tornadoes, etc.

In the event of a SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING or TORNADO WARNING issued for Eau
Claire County that includes the City of Altoona, any available personnel may standby at the fire station Claire County that includes the City of Altoona, any available personnel may standby at the fire station
to prepare for any possible responses in the City. Personnel at the station during this time will not be on
the payroll until such time a call comes in or the Department is placed on official standby in quarters.

Depending on the situation and the information available at the time, if a tornado touchdown is
imminent, the senior officer/firefighter in charge, at his/her discretion, may stage units in different areas
of the City in preparation to respond to a disaster and to avoid vehicles becoming damaged or obstructed
from having all resources in one area.

MAJOR INCIDENT RESPONSE
In the event of any major incident, the senior firefighter/officer in charge, at his/her discretion, may
activate this policy and/or request any MABAS response necessary for emergency response to a natural
disaster or other large scale incident.

Command Post
A command post shall be established. The command post for the City of Altoona shall be at the fire
station if possible and shall be established in the communications room of the fire station. Access should
be restricted to the Command Post to maintain control unless it is an emergency.
The command post shall be staffed with the following personnel:
-Most senior firefighter/senior officer (Chief Officer if possible) -Most senior firefighter/senior officer (Chief Officer if possible)
-IC aide/information tracking (another fire officer if possible)
-Radio operator
-Call taker/additional aide (optional)

Staging Area
The staging area shall be at the fire station if available. Staging for personnel, vehicles and supplies shall
be at the fire station unless otherwise designated by the Incident Commander.

Sectors
The Incident Commander shall use the pre-planned sector maps that divide the City into four geographic
working areas called a SECTOR. These sectors may be combined to create larger geographic working
areas but may not be divided to make smaller areas.

A sector shall have a designated SECTOR OFFICER who is responsible for all personnel, vehicles and
operations within a sector as well receiving calls of service from the IC. An engine staffed with at least
three (3) personnel shall respond to an assigned sector. The crew chief shall be the Sector Officer unless
otherwise designated by the IC. Any other vehicles may respond as necessary. The Sector Officer shall
have two individual radios; one radio to maintain contact with personnel in his/her sector, and one to
maintain contact with the Incident Commander. Only the Sector Officer is allowed to communicate
directly with IC except in the case of a MAYDAY or other life-threatening emergency.

Communications
The AFD main frequency (F-1) shall be the Command Channel unless otherwise designated by the IC.
This channel shall be used for:
-Radio traffic between the IC and the Communications Center.
-Radio traffic between the IC and Sector Officers. -Radio traffic between the IC and Sector Officers.
-Radio traffic from any other outside agency or Emergency Traffic.

Each Sector shall operate on a separate frequency from the Command Channel. Only Sector Officers are
allowed to communicate directly with the IC on the Command Channel. Other frequencies shall be
assigned to individual sectors by the IC when required. Keep in mind the radio channels for Sector
operations should be available on our portable radios as well.

Priority Calling
While operating in the major incident plan, calls for service may come in several different ways. Walk
up complaints, dispatched by the Comm.Center, through the Police Dept., or by phone into the fire
station just to name a few. As these calls come into the Command Post, the IC shall receive those calls
and prioritize them according to life and property endangerment. Then after categorizing the call, the IC
shall dispatch the call to the appropriate Sector Officer to handle it.

These calls shall be prioritized by the following:
-GREEN----Lowest Priority
-YELLOW---Medium Priority
-RED--High Priority -RED--High Priority

Command to Sector 4 officer, I have a code RED response for a man trapped at

The Sector Officer shall receive the call from IC and assign units in that Sector to handle the call. If the
Sector Officer needs more resources, he/she can ask for more units. Only the IC may call for mutual aid.

Notifications
In the event of a large scale incident, certain individuals need to be contacted ASAP:
-Fire Chief
-Mayor
-City Administrator
-Fire Chief of Public Works

In most cases, the Fire Chief shall contact the Mayor who may contact all the City Department Fire
Chiefs. Chiefs.

1-1-95 1-21-11 1 of 2
4-16 EMERGENCY RESPONSE AIRPORT EMERGENCIES

PURPOSE
The purpose of this guideline is to facilitate coordinated efforts between the Altoona Fire Department,
Chippewa Valley Regional Airport Fire Department, and other responding agencies. Through a state of Chippewa Valley Regional Airport Fire Department, and other responding agencies. Through a state of
informed readiness, responses will be enhanced.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all employees of the Altoona Fire Department who has a potential to
respond to an aircraft emergency on or off the airport property.

GUIDELINE
ALL RESPONDING UNITS SHALL ENTER THE AIRPORT PROPERTY
THROUGH THE GATE AT ECFD STATION #8

There are three (3) levels of designated responses to airport emergencies:

ALERT 1:
Indicating an aircraft approaching the airport is in minor difficulty. (feathered propeller, fluid leak,
caution light, etc.)
Response: Airport Fire ARFF 1 & 2, one engine, two ambulances, one heavy rescue, one battalion
chief, and one tender.
ALTOONA FIRE DOES NOT RESPOND TO AN ALERT 1

ALERT 2:
Indicating an aircraft approaching the airport is in major difficulty (engine fire, faulty landing gear, no
hydraulic pressure, etc.)
Response: Airport Fire ARFF 1 & 2, three engines, three tenders, two ambulances, one heavy rescue,
one battalion chief, and one duty chief.

ALERT 3:
Indicating an aircraft is down or involved in an incident on or near the airport. Indicating an aircraft is down or involved in an incident on or near the airport.
Response: Same response as an ALERT 2 with addition of Altoona Rescue personnel. Altoona Fire
shall provide an engine company on the MABAS Box Alarm level.

All units shall stage at ECFD Station #8 unless otherwise ordered by Incident Command.
Any other resources would be a special request.

(SEE: Eau Claire Fire MABAS Box Alarm Card #1-3-8 Target Hazard: Airport)

Dispatching
Under normal circumstances, the aircraft that needs assistance would contact the FAA Control Tower in
Minneapolis or Eau Claire, or contact Green Bay Fight Service regarding the in-flight emergency. This
agency would then notify the Eau Claire Communications Center. The Altoona Fire Department shall be
part of the dispatch of multiple agencies at once by the Eau Claire Communications Center.

Once the dispatched units are en route, The Tower or Communications Center should update with as
much as the following information as possible:
Type of Aircraft
Reported problem
Location of aircraft
Number of souls on board (passengers) Number of souls on board (passengers)
Amount of fuel on board (given in pounds; example: 2200 lbs. fuel on board)
Runway designated for landing
Any other special or hazardous cargo

TENDER 1 shall respond with two people Code 3 unless otherwise noted in the dispatch information.
The staging area is the ECFD Station #8 on Starr Ave. next to the airport. Units shall stage there and
wait for an assignment unless otherwise ordered by the Incident Commander. If the estimated time of
the aircraft to the airport exceeds 10 minutes, all units shall respond Code 1.

Incident Command
Airport Fire, ECFD officer assigned, or the battalion chief shall be Incident Commander.

Radio Frequencies Radio Frequencies
Initial dispatch and all radio traffic will utilize ECFD primary radio frequency. After units arrive on
scene and as tactics require, FG Blue will be used by all units on scene. All radio traffic from the Tower
will be on ECFD primary. In all cases, use ECFD primary until otherwise requested by the Incident
Commander.

Additional Resources
TENDER 1 is the only unit to respond unless otherwise requested.

The main purpose of AFD units is water supply. There may be additional dispatches for resources such
as manpower or medical supplies upon special request of the Incident Commander.

It may be requested by Command to activate the Eau Claire County EMS Plan. This would require the
response of the City/County EMS Trailer and each agency in Eau Claire County to respond with their
Emergency Government EMS supplies. These supplies are in two plastic tubs and at least five

In all cases of an ALERT 2 or ALERT 3, personnel should be ready to respond with any additional
resource that may be requested.

Requesting Mutual Aid from the Airport Fire Department
The Altoona Fire Department may request the Chippewa Valley Regional Airport Fire Department for
the use of their ARFF units or large foam capabilities. This request should go through the Eau Claire
Communications Center or directly to the Airport Control Tower by phone.

(SEE APPENDIXG Airport Gate List and APPENDIX H Airport maps)

5-1-10 5-1-10 1 of 5
4-17 EMERGENCY RESPONSE RAPID INTERVENTION TEAM (RIT)

PURPOSE
The purpose of this guideline is to establish compliance with the Wisconsin Department of Commerce The purpose of this guideline is to establish compliance with the Wisconsin Department of Commerce
Administrative Code COMM 30 for having an attack team, a back-up team, and an Incident
. This guideline also establishes the need to have a fully equipped rescue team on
scene, in a ready state, to immediately respond to rescue an injured or trapped firefighter throughout an
incident. To establish a back up team or identify operational considerations relating to the provision of
Rapid Intervention Teams (RIT) when deemed necessary by the Incident Commander and/or Safety
Officer. This includes, but not limited to: structural firefighting, technical rescue, hazardous materials, or
any incident where personnel are operation in an IDLH atmosphere. This guideline also meets the scope
and intent of NFPA 1561 for minimum requirements for an incident management system for all
emergency incidents.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all employees of the Altoona Fire Department operating at any emergency This guideline shall apply to all employees of the Altoona Fire Department operating at any emergency
incident or training exercise.

GUIDELINE

Terms and Definitions

Attack Team: A team assigned to enter into a structure or hot zone to locate, confine, and extinguish a
fire. This team conducts offensive fire activities including search and rescue operations.

Back-Up Team: A team assigned to support the attack team. The back-up team will be fully prepared for
emergency rescue, including fully donned protective clothing and SCBA and remain outside the
structure or hot zone with a charged hose line to protect the escape route of the attack team. This team
also will serve as a rescue team for the attack team prior to the establishment of a RIT.

RIT: A Rapid Intervention Team is a dedicated rescue team whose duties are to assist and/or rescue
firefighters in distress on an emergency scene. The RIT shall be on standby, fully prepared for
emergency rescue, including fully donned protective clothing and SCBA.

IDLH: An Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health atmosphere is any atmosphere that poses an
to escape from a dangerous atmosphere. Interior structure firefighting beyond the incipient stage is
considered an IDLH atmosphere.
GENERAL
Fire service personnel are often required to operate in extremely hazardous conditions requiring safety
measures that are equal to the hazards encountered. Therefore one simple fact that must be understood is
that our personnel may need to be rescued. It is the policy of this Department to provide our personnel
adequate safety measures when personnel are operating in IDLH atmospheres. The Incident Command
shall designate a back-up and/or RIT when members are exposed to this environment.

Assignment of the Back-up Team
No entry shall be made into an IDLH atmosphere unless a minimum of five (5) firefighters have
assembled on scene. (Wisconsin Department of Commerce Administrative Code 30.14 )

The only exceptions to this rule are:

1. When there is a life hazard where immediate action could prevent the loss of life. OR,
2. When the fire is in the incipient stage.

Assignments and responsibilities of the first five (5) firefighters on scene:

During interior firefighting operations beyond the incipient stage, the following shall be observed:

Firefighters shall utilize self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) during all interior
structure fire operations. Each team (Attack, Back-Up, and RIT) shall be equipped with a
buddy breathing hose.
Firefighters shall operate in a team (buddy system) of two or more in conditions that may
be IDLH, unknown, hazardous or potentially hazardous atmospheres.
Teams must maintain either direct voice contact, visual or tethered contact with a signal line to Teams must maintain either direct voice contact, visual or tethered contact with a signal line to
one another. Radios are NOT an acceptable substitute.

monitor, account for and assist the entry team. (One of the outside team members may be
assigned other tasks as long as they are available for immediate back-up operations.)
The back-up team shall operate utilizing the buddy system if required for entry.
If the back-up team is activated for an assignment into the hazardous atmosphere, another team
shall be assigned as the next back-up team.
At least one additional member shall be assigned to remain outside the structure fire and monitor
the operation. (This duty may be assigned to the pump operator.)

NOTE: In cases where immediate action is necessary to save lives, firefighters may enter IDLH
environments in an effort to rescue occupants in variance to the above conditions. Such
deviations from this guideline shall be the exception, not the rule and must be documented as
part of the final fire report.

If the first arriving company(s) does not have sufficient personnel to staff both an attack and a
back-up team, they should advise other responding units via radio that they will
while awaiting a back-

While waiting for a back-up, on-scene personnel may complete the following as appropriate:

Do a full 360-degree walk around assessment of the site,
Pull both primary and back-up lines to the entry point,
Assess water supply locations,
Bring appropriate tools to a staging location,
Ready positive pressure fans for deployment, and
Other appropriate tasks that do not place the firefighters within the IDLH environment
until the back-up team is established and in place.

Proper two-way communications is paramount for successful operations. The first arriving
officer or crew chief shall assume Incident Command and, after submitting a quality size-up,
shall keep responding personnel informed of their needs and actions.

Establishing a Rapid Intervention Team (RIT)

As additional resources arrive on the scene, the Incident Commander may assign a dedicated rescue
team whose major function is the rescue of distressed firefighters, if needed.

Basic Concept:
To have at least one dedicated team, back-up and/or designated RIT available when the need is
identified by the Incident Commander and/or Safety Officer. During the early stages of an
incident, the back-up team assumes the duties and responsibilities of RIT until the designation of
a RIT is made by Command once addit
necessary due to the complexity and/or size of the building or incident.

A structure fire is the most common IDLH where a RIT would most likely be established. There
will be other incident types where the Incident Commander may identify the need for a RIT.

The RIT must be in a state of readiness, including fully donned protective clothing and SCBA,
capable of making a rapid entry to an environment to respond to a MAYDAY call and be ready
to provide rescue efforts to personnel who are injured, trapped, or missing.

The Team:
The RIT will be made up of no fewer than two (2) firefighters who are capable of operating
without direct supervision.

The RIT will operate within the Incident Command structure and will be included in the fire

Personnel assigned to a RIT shall be equipped with full structural fire protective clothing
including SCBA. Each member must have his/her face piece with him/her at all times, and it
must be in a condition capable of being donned immediately. For incident types other than
structure fires, the protective clothing and equipment shall be appropriate for the hazards.

The Incident Commander will assign a team leader with a radio for each RIT.

The RIT will report directly to the IC or designated Division Officer.

Responsibilities:
The IC shall assign personnel to form the RIT.

The IC shall brief the RIT on the chosen strategy for the incident, what has occurred during the
attack, operating locations, other resources available and any pre-plan information.
-up related to their duties. The team
should be looking for potential problems, avenues of escape, points of entry, building
construction type, scene conditions, safety hazards, as well as obtaining any other information
that contribute to a successful outcome.

Perform duties to aid in RIT and/or increase scene safety including but not limited to:

o Placing ladders for secondary escape routes from upper floors and roofs
o Forcing doors to provide secondary egress
o Placing emergency lighting at points of entry

The RIT will need to assemble essential equipment at a designated location. This equipment The RIT will need to assemble essential equipment at a designated location. This equipment
must not be used for any other purpose other than to be in the state of readiness for the RIT. The
following equipment is suggested to be assembled:
o RIT pack air supply bag containing a complete SCBA set up including mask
o 3 extra SCBA bottles
o rged hose line
o Portable radio for the victim
o Portable hand lanterns for each team member
o Flat head axe and Halligan tool
o RIT rope bag, as a guide for searches
o Wire cutters
o Portable saw
o Oxygen/EMS equipment/AED
o Blue plastic tarp as the assembly point for tools and equipment
o Thermal Imaging Cameras (TIC)

Activation of the RIT:
Whenever a firefighter(s) is injured, trapped, unaccounted for, or in any other life threatening situation,
the Incident Commander must be notified. Notification shall occur through the of the MAYDAY
procedures.

NOTE: An absent member of any crew will be automatically assumed lost or trapped until otherwise
determined to be safe.

Upon such notification the Incident Commander shall request the next greater level alarm, up to and
including a mutual aid request, and initiate a PAR (Personnel Accountability Report).

The RIT will be sent to the last working area of the crew or firefighter.

When activated, the RIT shall operate on the initial fire ground channel. All others shall switch
to a new fire ground radio channel determined by the Incident Commander. Only mission
essential units should remain on the initial fire ground channel.

All other companies and crews on the fire ground will hold their positions and switch radio
channels when the IC assigns it. Personnel should not abandon their position unless conditions or
orders from the IC require. (While the need for firefighter rescue is paramount, other fire scene
operations must continue so viable conditions can be maintained to support the firefighter rescue
operation. For obvious reasons then, crews cannot freelance.)

Crews in the immediate area of the firefighter emergency that may be able to make a rescue
MUST communicate with the Incident Commander.

The RIT will o
needs associated with a firefighter rescue. These are:

o A Air Provide a redundant air supply.
o W Water Create a defensible space with water using hoselines, water cans, etc.
o AR A radio Getting a radio to the victim will help to assess the conditions.
o E Extrication Extricate the distressed firefighter and treat injuries as appropriate.

The first two components are the most important. Provide a redundant air supply and create a defensible The first two components are the most important. Provide a redundant air supply and create a defensible
space with water using hoselines, water cans, etc. Meeting these two basic requirements will by valuable
time for extrication. The next two letters stand for a radio. Getting a radio to the victim will allow you to
assess the condition of the firefighter and to know if they were able to self extricate. Finally, the last
letter stand for extricate, by any means necessary.

RIT will continue to operate in a rescue mode until firefighter(s) are located, assessed, evacuated
from the danger, and transferred to medical care, unless conditions prohibit further reasonable
rescue attempts or if it is obvious that a successful rescue attempt is not possible. The decision to
switch to a recovery mode will only be made by the Incident Commander or the Safety Officer.

Deactivation of RIT:
RIT may be deactivated:
After incident stabilization and when there are no existing IDLH atmospheres.
After consensus is reached between RIT and the Incident Commander. After consensus is reached between RIT and the Incident Commander.

The IC shall make the final determination and announce to all companies working on the fire ground
that RIT has been deactivated. After deactivation, RIT may be assigned to other normal duties.


1-1-90 12-8-09 1 of 3
5-1 EXPLORER POST EXPLORER OPERATIONS

PURPOSE
This guideline is designed to establish rules and regulations of the operations of the City of Altoona
Sponsored Boy Scouts of America Explorer Post 800 at the Altoona Fire Department. The following Sponsored Boy Scouts of America Explorer Post 800 at the Altoona Fire Department. The following
policy is developed by the Altoona Fire Department from the book FIRE EXPLORING PROGRAM
GUIDE by the BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA.

SCOPE
This guideline shall apply to all Department employees and all explorers.

GUIDELINE
The Explorer Program is a vocationally oriented division of the Boy Scouts of America that is open to
young people ages 14-21, interested in exploring future career opportunities. The Altoona Fire
Department established the Explorer Post 800 to assist our young adults i
fire service while installing and developing core values, self-responsibility, and life skills. The Altoona
Fire Department and the City of Altoona supports and encourages the activities of the Explorer Post. Fire Department and the City of Altoona supports and encourages the activities of the Explorer Post.
Explorers may perform functions for the Fire Department within the limits established by this guideline.
They may participate in a wide range of fire and rescue functions as well as fire prevention and other
support work that are in compliance with this guideline. Explorers are not members of the Altoona Fire
Department but are members of the Boy Scouts of America. The Explorer Post 800 is governed by the
Explorer Guidance Committee, the Boy Scouts of America, and the Fire Officers of the Fire
Department.

GENERAL RULES & REGULATIONS
Must comply with Boy Scouts of America rules and regulations at all times.
Explorers are not allowed in the fire station unless accompanied by a firefighter and there must
be a purpose at which that firefighter is involved.
Explorers are not allowed to be given the security code to enter the Public Safety Building.
Explorers may not drive fire apparatus or any other Fire Department vehicle at any time. Explorers may not drive fire apparatus or any other Fire Department vehicle at any time.
Upon turning 18 years old, and after graduating from high school, Explorers may apply to
become a member of the Altoona Fire Department.
Explorers must abide by Wisconsin Department of Commerce (COMM 30) standards that are
adopted by the Altoona Fire Department. The Explorer Post Guidance Committee will assist the
Explorers in following these standards as well as the standards of the Boy Scouts of America.
Explorers must show proof of maintaining at least a "C" grade average in school. The records
will be reviewed once a quarter, or more frequent if necessary.
Provided that at least a "C" grade average is being maintained, the Explorer may attend Fire
Department training and meetings. The Explorer may participate in classroom activities in an
appropriate manner, and observe any training from a safe distance.
Regularly scheduled meetings will take place twice a month at the fire station. Training will
consist of current national standards for fire service and emergency medical training.
Explorers are held to a higher standard as far as behavior and conduct. The Explorer Guidance
Committee shall deal with less than acceptable behavior outside of Explorer activities in
accordance to Fire Department Standard Operating Guidelines and the Boy Scouts of America.
Explorers must realize that what they do outside of the Post, affects the image of the Post.
Explorers are allowed to wear clothing that identifies them as being associated with the Altoona
Fire Department, only after prior approval. Locations to wear this clothing may be limited at the
discretion of the Explorer Guidance Committee and the Fire Officers.
Any equipment issued to an Explorer is City property and will not be removed from the station
without prior approval.
Explorers are not allowed to be at the station or any Department training or event after 9:00 P.M. Explorers are not allowed to be at the station or any Department training or event after 9:00 P.M.
Explorers that violate any rules or regulations in this guideline may be placed on restriction or
suspension at the discretion of the Explorer Advisor(s), Fire Officers, and/or Explorer Guidance
Committee. If discipline is required, it shall be in accordance to the regulations of the Altoona
Fire Department and/or the Boy Scouts of America.

TRAINING
Training shall be done by Fire Department personnel and all training records shall be kept on file. After
Explorers are trained to the Class II level, they may respond to emergency calls following this guideline.

Class I, as outlined in the Explorer Manual, is an introductory level course. Training will be both lecture
and practical skills that are consistent with the IFSTA manual for firefighter training. This shall include
the following topics:

Class I Introduction to Fire Service Operations 10 hours
A. Orientation
B. Safety
C. Apparatus Orientation
D. Fire Science
E. Communication Systems

Class II, relates to methods and techniques used by firefighters. This class will be presented to any
Explorer who has successfully completed Class I. Training will be both lecture and practical skills that
are consistent with the IFSTA manual for firefighter training. This shall include the following topics:

Class II - Relates methods and techniques 20 hours
A. Tools and equipment
B. Hose lines and appliances
C. Hose lays C. Hose lays
D. Ladders
E. Ropes and knots
F. Water Systems
G. Breathing apparatus

Entry Level Firefighter part 1 and part 2 of the State of Wisconsin Firefighter Certification Program will
be offered to any explorer age 17 who has successfully completed Class I and Class II training. The
Explorer will take this class when offered along with any new Altoona City Firefighters. Chippewa
Valley Technical College permits participation of students age 17 or older in various classes.

The Explorers will be responsible for all the necessary permissions needed to take the class and be
responsible for paying tuition for the course.
Assuming all perquisite courses have been successfully completed, the Explorer could continue the State
of Wisconsin Firefighter Certification process by entering Firefighter I training. The Explorer will again
be responsible for his/her own tuition. Upon successful completion of parts 1 and 2 of this training, the
Explorer will be encouraged to write the State of Wisconsin Level I Firefighter Certification
Examination.

At age 18, and upon graduation of High School or equivalent, the Explorer could apply for and be
considered for any firefighting vacancies with the Altoona Fire Department. The hiring procedure for
the Department would be the same as currently exists, with the City's Police and Fire Commission
having final approval of anyone that might be hired. having final approval of anyone that might be hired.

RESPONSE TO THE STATION

In the event of an emergency call, Explorers may respond to the station in an orderly manner and gather
in the engine room. Explorers must report to the Fire Station where they are to receive orders and put on
personal safety equipment. An Explorer officer or senior member will inform the officer in charge or
senior firefighter of the number of Explorers standing by.

Explorers are not allowed to be at the station or any other Department training or event after 9:00 P.M.
Special permission may be granted by the Fire Chief, Explorer committee members, or senior officer in
charge for certain events or activities however, the City Ordinance regarding curfew is always in effect.
(curfew in Altoona is 2300-0600 for persons 17 and under)

-Rides to and from the Explorer Post Meetings should be pre-arranged before the meeting time. -Rides to and from the Explorer Post Meetings should be pre-arranged before the meeting time.
-If someone gives an Explorer a ride, or the Explorer drives themselves to the station for a call, they are
to park in a manner as to not block parking for firefighters and are to stay parked until all Departments
vehicles responding to the call have left the station.
-If bikes are used as transportation, they must be parked as to not interfere with fire department
operations or block any exits. Bikes may not be parked inside of the station.

RESPONSE TO THE SCENE

Explorers are not allowed to respond directly to the scene
of any fire or emergency medical call under any circumstances

The Incident Commander of an emergency may request the response of any available Explorers to the The Incident Commander of an emergency may request the response of any available Explorers to the
scene. Only Class II trained Explorers will be allowed to respond to an emergency scene unless directly
ordered by the Incident Commander. An Explorer may respond to emergency calls with the following
provisions:
Explorers will be under the direct supervision and control of a Fire Officer.
Explorers will be allowed to observe but not take part in actual firefighting.
Vehicles carrying Explorers may only respond in non-emergency mode (no lights or sirens)
Explorers must be seated and wearing seatbelts while riding in any Fire Department vehicle.
Explorers must be closely supervised when involved in any activity or support work.
Explorers must be equipped with gear that meets department standards, so jobs can be performed
safely.
Explorers must not be used in place of available fire personnel.
Explorers are not to be involved in patient care or cleaning of equipment used in patient care.
The guidelines of the Boy Scout of America do not allow an Explorer to be involved in actual
control of fire, to be exposed to any hazard such as violent patients, traffic hazards, or any other
hazard in an emergency situation.
Explorers have the right to refuse to do anything they feel is unsafe or hazardous.

Once on scene, Explorers may be involved with the following:
Changing air bottles or filling air bottles,
Dispensing food and drinks.
Setting up lighting equipment, Setting up lighting equipment,
Assist in filling TENDER 1 or setting up a water supply
Assist in hydrant connections,
Assist in filling pack cans,
Rolling and packing hose,
Sparking out of wild land fires under direct supervision
Assist with Incident Command functions,
Assist in any other operation that does not put the Explorer in a hazardous situation or
atmosphere.

Explorers may assist with activities around the fire station and with administrative duties as well with
the approval of the officer in charge or senior firefighter. These activities include:

Fire hydrant inspection, Fire hydrant inspection,
Fire pre-planning including fire prevention inspections,
All phases of fire prevention,
Station and vehicle maintenance,
Assisting at the fire station after an incident,
Participating in routine or special drills, not involving live fires,
Operating the base station radio.

Explorers may be involved in live fire training ONLY under supervision of a Department approved
instructor and with prior approval of the Explorer Advisor(s) and/or officer in charge.
ALTOONA
FIRE DEPARTMENT

APPENDIX APPENDIX

Altoona FD SOPs

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