Monday, March 2, 2009

Fire Department Communications

This was posted on Firefighter Hourly earlier today and really makes good press for a reminder. I hear it all to often in the scanner this taking place, Yes it may be volunteers doing It but full timers do it too as they get complacent. Getting complacent is no excuse for relaying information to other responding units and dispatch as to what is exactly going on at the scene. Comes down to doing it every time, from a dumpster fire to a fully involved warehouse, they are the same thing.

Communications Define Fire Departments from Firefighter Hourly by Jay Lowry
Two engines respond to the report of a house fire in a two story single family dwelling. The first due arrives and pulls an 1.75 line. There is NO transmission of any information other than the arrival.
The second due engine is still a minute away but on arrival they pull an 1.75 line into the rear of the structure. Two companies have committed to perform the same task and the first time the other will know is when they see each other. This is a failure of communication.
Some mistake talking a lot on the radio for communication. This is just as bad as not communicating. Essential information must be relayed in a timely manner. Here are some helpful tips on radio transmissions.


Don't wait for a fire to become familiar with the radio. Know it's strengths and weaknesses.
Speak calmly.
Yelling is what civilians do.
Transmit necessary information.
LISTEN to replies.
Don't step on others.
Communications personnel exist to support operations. In fact, everyone supports operations. Period.
Transmit a proper size up. Everytime.
The radio isn't a CB nor are you deer hunting or playing Star Trek. Radio traffic WILL end up in court.
Communicate often but provide needed information.

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