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Probationary Firefighters Manual

Chapter 7

COMMUNICATIONS

OBJECTIVE: To familiarize members with:

Basic fire ground communications Equipment used Assignments of Handie-Talkies Maintenance procedures

CONTENTS: Part One:

FDNY Radio policiesPart Two:

Exposure IdentificationPart Three:

Illustration of current Handie Talkie Description of Equipment

SOURCE: FDNY Communication Manual WNYF 2 of 1991

FDNY

REFERENCE:

Part One:

Communication Manual, Chapter 9: sections: 1 10, Addendums 2&3

Excluding sections 9.1.1, 9.1.2, 9.1.3, 9.4.3, & 9.11

Edited Versions of sections 9.4, 9.10.1

WNYF 2 of 1991, pp. 20 & 21

Part Two:

Communication Manual; Chapter 10, Appendix C

Excluding section 1 & 10

Edited Version of section 8

Part Three:

Communication Manual, Chapter 11

Excluding sections 2.6, 2.10, 2.12, 2.13, 4.1, 4.2, 6.4 & 7

Edited Versions of sections 1.1, 1.2, 2.5, 3.2, 3.3

7


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PART ONE

SECTION TITLE PAGE

1 INTRODUCTION .....................................................................................1

2 SUPERVISION ........................................................................................1

3 INTER-UNIT COMMUNICATIONS............................................................2

4 EMERGENCY HTCOMMUNICATIONS ....................................................3(MAYDAY /URGENT)

5 FEEDBACKASSISTED RESCUE...............................................................10

6 HIGH RISE /HOSPITALS-GENERAL INFORMATION...............................11

7 HANDIE TALKIE SUBWAY RELAY..........................................................12

8 USE,CARE AND MAINTENANCE ...........................................................14

9 HTUTILIZATION WITH

SELF CONTAINEDBREATHING APPARATUS .......................................14

10 RADIO DISCIPLINE ................................................................................15

11 EMERGENCY ROLL CALL PROCEDURES ................................................15

12 ELECTRONIC FIREGROUND ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM (EFAS)....17

RADIO CODE SIGNALS..25


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FDNY Probationary Firefighters Manual

Chapter Seven COMMUNICATIONS

1

1. INTRODUCTION

The following procedures for handie talkie (HT) use are established to achieve greater safety,effectiveness and efficiency at fire operations.

1.1 Company Officers have many tasks at fire operations. They must report conditions to the

INCIDENTCOMMANDER, carry out orders received and control the individual members oftheir units so that necessary actions are performed and the safety of members under their

command is monitored. HT communications play a vital role in all of these.

2 SUPERVISION

An Officer's span of control must allow for supervision of the actions of members undertheir command in all situations.

2.1 Members are under the "Immediate Supervision" of an Officer when:

A. They are within sight and/or hearing of the Officer.

B. They are working with a search line or hose line which is under thesupervision of an Officer.

2.2 Members are under the "Functional Supervision" of an Officer when they are HTequipped or working with a HT equipped member and are in compliance with the

following:

A. Members assigned to tasks which are not under the "Immediate

Supervision" of their Company Officer must contact such Officer before

entering a dangerous area and advise such Officer of their status atfrequent intervals, especially when attempting tasks not normally

associated with their assignment.

B. If contact cannot be made with their Company Officer, they shall contact(in this priority) their Company Chauffeur, the INCIDENT COMMANDER or

any other HT equipped member advising such member that contact cannotbe made with their Officer. Any of the foregoing who are so contacted

must advise the members Officer as soon as possible.

C. Members operating alone who team up with other members shall advise

their Company Officer. If they separate, notification should again bemade.

D. The Company Officer upon notification as described in paragraphs A and

B shall evaluate and notify the Incident Commander of the memberslocation when:

1) Conditions encountered by the member are exceptionally dangerous,

or

2) Available manpower is insufficient to assist if the member shouldbecome distressed.


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2.3 When operations are conducted in an area where the ambient noise level interferes

with HT communications, provisions must be made to ensure effectivecommunications.

3 INTER-UNIT COMMUNICATIONThe importance of communications between units and the INCIDENT COMMANDER cannot be

overemphasized. Conditions found and actions taken or contemplated must be continually

reported. However, discretion must be used. Information of a routine nature should becommunicated to Company Officer, while more serious information should go directly to the

INCIDENT COMMANDER.

3.1 The Officer who arrives first at the fire area must transmit the following

information to the INCIDENT COMMANDER:

A. Location of the fire. (If a multiple dwelling, report the number of

apartments on fire floor.)B. Fire conditions.

C. Access to fire area.D. Whether fire is extending and how it is extending and the need for

additional lines.

E. Difficulties or delays in gaining entrance to fire area or in advancing line.Give reasons.

F. If any occupants have been located or are reported missing.

3.2 Members operating on the roof must communicate to the INCIDENT COMMANDER

the following:

A. The configuration of the building.B. Fire showing out windows not visible from the street and whether any

exposure is affected.

C. Color and volume of smoke coming from windows.

D. Persons trapped and their exact location.E. Location of stairways, fire escapes and party wall balconies. Unusual

information affecting safety, for example, a fire escape on the rear of abrownstone.

F. If the building fronts on more than one street, and whether there is access

for apparatus or equipment.

G. Whether there is any difference in the height of the building from front to

rear or from side to side.H. Evidence of unusual heat, smoke or fire in the cockloft, or if fire has

burned through roof. Need for additional saws.I. Location of parapet and dividing walls.

J. Presence of heating ducts, ventilation ducts, air conditioning units and

water tanks on roof.


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4. EMERGENCY HT COMMUNICATIONS (MAYDAYS & URGENTS)

The following transmissions are to be used with discretion. The terms "MAYDAY" and

"URGENT" must only be used as is indicated herein. They are intended for use in situations

where immediate communication is necessary to protect life or prevent injury.

WHENEVER THE EMERGENCY ALERT BUTTON HAS BEEN PRESSED, AND/OR A MAYDAY OR

URGENT ARE TRANSMITTED, ALL HT COMMUNICATIONS ON THE FREQUENCY ARE TO CEASE,

EXCEPT THOSE BETWEEN THE MEMBER INITIATING THE EMERGENCY TRANSMISSION AND THE

INCIDENT COMMANDER.

WHILE NOT NECESSARY TO INITIATE AN EMERGENCY TRANSMISSION, THE MEMBER WITH THE

MAYDAY OR URGENT TRANSMISSION WILL BEGIN, IF POSSIBLE, BY PRESSING THE

EMERGENCY ALERT BUTTON, ENSURING HIS/HER MESSAGE GETS OUT AT MAXIMUM WATTAGE

AND REPEATING "MAYDAY" OR "URGENT" THREE TIMES FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER

OF THE MESSAGE.

NORMAL HT USE MAY BE RESUMED UPON COMPLETION OF THE EMERGENCY MESSAGE OR

SIGNAL UNLESS THE

INCIDENT

COMMANDER ORDERS OTHERWISE

.

THE INCIDENT COMMANDER MAY INSTRUCT THE MEMBER TRANSMITTING THE EMERGENCY

MESSAGE TO SWITCH TO CHANNEL 16, THE DEDICATED 5-WATT EMERGENCY CHANNEL.

THE INCIDENT COMMANDER MAY DO THIS TO FREE UP THE PRIMARY TACTICAL CHANNEL AND

HAVE COMMUNICATIONS CONTINUE WITH THE MEMBER AT 5WATTS.

WHEN THE MEMBER SWITCHES TO CHANNEL 16, HIS/HER "BEACON" CONTINUES UNLESS THE

"EMERGENCY ALERT" IS CANCELLED.

THE INCIDENT COMMANDER MAY INSTRUCT THE MEMBER TO DEACTIVATE THE TONES IF THEY

ARE HAMPERING COMMUNICATIONS.

NOTE: (1) Anytime a building or area is evacuated, units shall account for allmembers in preparation for a Roll Call by the INCIDENT

COMMANDER. Missing members are to be reported immediately.

(2) "MAYDAY" transmissions have priority over "URGENT"transmissions.

(3) To minimize misunderstanding, the terminology used below ismandatory. All members must be completely familiar with the

terminology and use it exclusively for its intended purpose. Noother wording is to be used for emergency transmissions. The term

"COLLAPSE" is to be used to indicate STRUCTURAL FAILUREonly.


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4.1 MAYDAY

THIS TRANSMISSION IS AN INDICATION THAT A LIFE-THREATENING SITUATION

HAS DEVELOPED.THE TERM MAYDAY MAY BE USED ONLY IN THE FOLLOWING

FIVE SITUATIONS (A TO E):

A. Imminent Collapse Feared

1. CONTACT THE INCIDENT COMMANDER IN THE FOLLOWING

FORMAT:

"MAYDAY-MAYDAY-MAYDAY, Ladder 4 Roof to

Battalion 8, MAYDAY."

2. The Incident Commander will respond in the following format:"Battalion 8 to Ladder 4 Roof, go ahead with your MAYDAY."

3. The member with the emergency message will respond in the

following format: "Ladder 4 Roof to Battalion 8, MAYDAY -

COLLAPSE IMMINENT." The member should also state the

location of the imminent collapse (e.g. rear wall, sidewall exposure2 side, etc.) and give his/her location.

4. The Incident Commander will then transmit: "Battalion 8 to all

units, MAYDAY, GET OUT OF BUILDING, GET OUT OFBUILDING" and repeat this message as often as necessary. All

members will immediately evacuate the building on transmission

of this message.

B. Structural collapse has occurred.


FORMAT:

"MAYDAY-MAYDAY-MAYDAY." "Ladder 44 OVto Battalion 17, MAYDAY".

2. The Incident Commander will respond in the following format:"Battalion 17 to Ladder 44 OV, go ahead with your MAYDAY."

3. The member giving the MAYDAY will respond with "Ladder 44

OV to Battalion 17, MAYDAY - COLLAPSE HAS OCCURRED"

and provide the location and extent of collapse, number and natureof injuries, and if anyone is trapped.

C. A firefighter is unconscious or suffers a life threatening injury.

1. CONTACT THE INCIDENT COMMANDER IN THE FOLLOWINGFORMAT:

"MAYDAY-MAYDAY-MAYDAY." "Engine 222 to


2. The Incident Commander will respond in the following format:

"Battalion 37 to Engine 222, go ahead with your MAYDAY."


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3. The Unit giving the MAYDAY will respond in the following

format: "Engine 222 to Battalion 37, MAYDAY-INJURED

MEMBER" and provide the location, unit identity of the injuredmember, and extent of the injuries.

D. An Officer becomes aware that a member under his/her supervision is

missing. (If the missing member is an Officer, any Team member can

transmit this message.)


FORMAT:

"MAYDAY-MAYDAY-MAYDAY." "Ladder 171 to


2. The Incident Commander will respond in the following format:

"Battalion 47 to Ladder 171, go ahead with yourMAYDAY."

3. The Officer responds in the following format: "Ladder 171 toBattalion 47, MAYDAY- MISSING Member" and provides the

following:

A. Last known location or reference pointB. Unit the member is working in that tourC. Name of affected memberD. Assignment (e.g., roof, nozzle)E. Resources needed to reach safety

E. Member becomes trapped or lost.


FORMAT:

"MAYDAY-MAYDAY-MAYDAY." "Ladder 133Chauffeur to Battalion 58, MAYDAY."

THIS MEMBER SHALL NOT ACTIVATE HIS/HER PASS

ALARM UNTIL ALL VITAL INFORMATION HAS BEEN

GIVEN TO THE IC. THIS IS TO REDUCE AS MUCH

BACKGROUND NOICE AS POSSIBLE.

2. The Incident Commander responds in the following format:

"Battalion 58 to Ladder 133 Chauffeur, go ahead with yourMAYDAY."

3. The member giving MAYDAY responds: "Ladder 133 Chauffeur

to Battalion 58, MAYDAY-MEMBER TRAPPED (or MEMBER-

LOST)", provides the number and identity of members involved,location if known, last recognizable reference point if location is

unknown (e.g., basement near oil burner), and any imminent

conditions that might affect trapped members (fire nearby, out ofair, etc.)


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4. A member who finds the trapped or lost member(s) shall

immediately press their Emergency Alert Button, and then contact

the IC in the following format:

MAYDAY-MAYDAY-MAYDAY, Ladder 105 FAST to

Command, MAYDAY

A. The IC shall respond in the following format:

Command to Ladder 105 FAST, go ahead with your MAYDAY.

B. The member transmitting the MAYDAY shall respond in the

following format:

Ladder 105 FAST to Command, MAYDAY, TRAPPED or LOST

MEMBER LOCATED and provide the following information:

Identity of the member(s) involved

LocationAny imminent conditions that might affect thetrapped/lost member(s) e.g., fire nearby, out of air.

Resources needed to reach safety

C. The IC shall notify all units when the MAYDAY has been

resolved and that normal operations may resume.

NOTE: THE TERM "URGENT" SHALL NOT BE USED FOR ANY OF ABOVE

SITUATIONS. ALL OF THESE SITUATIONS ARE SUFFICIENTLY SERIOUS TO

WARRANT "MAYDAYTRANSMISSIONS.4.2 URGENT

This transmission is used to indicate that a member has suffered a serious injurythat is not immediately life threatening, or to inform members of a serious change

in conditions.THE TERM URGENT MAY BE USED IN THE FOLLOWING SEVEN

SITUATIONS (A TO G):

A. When a member suffers an injury that is not immediately life

threatening but which requires medical attention and hospital care.


FORMAT:"URGENT-URGENT-URGENT." "LADDER 77 TO

BATTALION 21,URGENT."

2. The Incident Commander responds in the following format:"Battalion 21 to Ladder 77, go ahead with your URGENT."

3. The member responds: "Ladder 77 to Battalion 21, URGENT-

INJURED MEMBER", provides the location, unit, identity of the

injured member, and the nature and extent of injuries.


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B. An interior attack is to be discontinued and an exterior attack

instituted.

1. IF POSSIBLE, THE INCIDENT COMMANDER SHALL IMMEDIATELY

PRESS HIS/HER EMERGENCY ALERT BUTTON, AND THEN

TRANSMIT A MESSAGE IN THE FOLLOWING FORMAT:

"URGENT-URGENT-URGENT." "Battalion 22 to allunits, URGENT - ALL UNITS - URGENT, BACK OUT,

BACK OUT."

On transmission of this message, all units will withdraw from the building.

C. Discovery of a structural problem indicating the danger/fear of

collapse.

1. TRANSMIT TO THE INCIDENT COMMANDER IN THE FOLLOWING

FORMAT:

"URGENT-URGENT-URGENT." "Ladder 6 Roof to

Battalion 4, URGENT."2. The Incident Commander responds in the following format:

"Battalion 4 to Ladder 6 Roof, go ahead with your URGENT."

3. The member responds in the following format: "Ladder 6 Roof to

Battalion 4, URGENT - COLLAPSE FEARED", provides locationand conditions discovered.

4. The Incident Commander determines the actions required.

D. Fire is discovered entering an exposure to a degree that any delay may

considerably enlarge the fire problem.

1. TRANSMIT TO THE INCIDENT COMMANDER IN THE FOLLOWINGFORMAT:

"URGENT-URGENT-URGENT." "Ladder 127 to

Battalion 50, URGENT."


"Battalion 50 to Ladder 127, go ahead with your URGENT."

3. The member responds in the following format: "Ladder 127 toBattalion 50, URGENT - FIRE EXTENDING", provides the

location and nature of extension.

4. The Incident Commander assigns specific units to deal with

extension.

E. Loss of water, which would endanger members.

1. TRANSMIT TO THE INCIDENT COMMANDER IN THE FOLLOWING

FORMAT:

"URGENT-URGENT-URGENT." "Engine 232 Chauffeurto Battalion 44, URGENT."


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"Battalion 44 to Engine 232 Chauffeur, go ahead with your

URGENT."

3. The member responds in the following format: "Engine 232Chauffeur to Battalion 44, URGENT - WATER LOSS", states the

problem and identity of the units with lines effected.

4. The Incident Commander contacts, by HT, all of the units affected

by the water loss and units operating in positions above the waterloss to ensure they are aware of the problem. If necessary, the

Incident Commander will back units out of exposed areas, assign

specific units to assist in removal of these units, conduct a roll calland account for all members.

F. Transmission of Signal 10-70

1. When the first arriving Engine Company is unable to secure a

positive water source, the first arriving Engine Chauffeur shall

immediately press their Emergency Alert Button, and then contactthe IC in the following format:

"URGENT-URGENT-URGENT, Engine 254 Chauffeur to

Command, URGENT."

2. The IC shall respond in the following format:

Command to Engine 254 Chauffeur, go ahead with yourURGENT.

3. The member transmitting the URGENT shall respond in the

following format:Engine 254 Chauffeur to Command, URGENT 10-70 and

provide information to assist the IC, e.g., dead hydrant, need torelay due to insufficient pressure, apparatus breakdown. All

members on the scene must be aware that water may still be

available through other means, e.g., booster water, roof tank;however a positive water source has not been attained.

4. This shall also require an URGENT message to the Borough

Dispatcher.

5. The IC shall announce over the HT when a positive water source

has been attained. The IC shall also inform the Borough Dispatcher

that a positive water source has been obtained.

G. Anytime a Change in Conditions will Severely Impact an Operation

or the Safety of Members

1. A member aware of a change in conditions that will severelyimpact an operation or the safety of members shall immediately

press their Emergency Alert Button, and then contact the IC in the

following format:


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"URGENT-URGENT-URGENT, Ladder 132 to Command,

URGENT."

2. The IC shall respond in the following format: "Command to

Ladder 132, go ahead with your URGENT."

3. The member transmitting the URGENT shall provide the followinginformation:

Nature of the problem

Location

Members/Units affected

4. The IC shall determine the actions required.

4.4 Unfortunately, it has been the Department's experience that at times, the Incident

Commander does not receive "MAYDAY" and "URGENT" signals. In order toensure that the Incident Commander receives these signals; the following

guidelines shall be adhered to:

A. THE MEMBER WHO INITIATES THE EMERGENCY ALERT FOLLOWED BY A

MAYDAY" OR "URGENT" TRANSMISSION MUST REPEAT THE

MESSAGE UNTIL IT IS ACKNOWLEDGED BY THE INCIDENT COMMANDER.

B. ANY OFFICER OR SAFETY TEAM MEMBER HEARING THE EMERGENCYALERT TONE FOLLOWED BY A "MAYDAY" or "URGENT" message and

realizing that it is not being acknowledged by the Incident Commander,must initiate the following:

1. Acknowledge signal and ascertain nature.2. Promptly relay all information to the Incident Commander.

C. THE MEMBER INITIATING THE EMERGENCY SHALL LEAVE THE

REPEATING BEACON TRANSMITTING UNTIL HE/SHE IS LOCATED.

REMEMBER:

WHILE NOT NECESSARY TO INITIATE AN EMERGENCY TRANSMISSION, THE MEMBER

WITH THE MAYDAY OR URGENT TRANSMISSION WILL BEGIN, IF POSSIBLE, BY

PRESSING THE EMERGENCY ALERT BUTTON, ENSURING HIS/HER MESSAGE GETS OUT AT

MAXIMUM WATTAGE AND REPEATING "MAYDAY" OR "URGENT" THREE TIMES

FOLLOWED BY THE REMAINDER OF THE MESSAGE.


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5 FEEDBACK-ASSISTED RESCUE & EMERGENCY ALERT TONE ASSISTED RESCUE

A procedure that takes advantage of an inherent problem of handie talkie feedback noise to

assist in homing in on the location of members (equipped with HT's) that are either

missing or trapped as encountered in a collapse situation.

5.1 PROCEDURE After determination is made that a member is missing and/or trapped

and the member IS HT EQUIPPED, this procedure may be initiated to assist inlocating said member.

5.2 INCIDENT COMMANDER announces over HT that a "Feedback Assist Rescue" is to be

implemented and designates a new primary tactical channel. This channel shall not bethe same one on which the missing member was operating.

5.3 All members wearing HTs, EXCEPT THE MEMBER DESIGNATED TO PRODUCE

FEEDBACK, ARE TO OPERATE ON THE NEWLY DESIGNATED PRIMARY TACTICAL

CHANNEL.

5.4 One member, designated to produce feedback, is assigned two (2) HT's.

5.5 Designated member should be located remote from such activity and to avoidconfusion among searchers.

5.6 Feedback is created by the designated member as follows:

A. Both HT's are turned on.

B. HT's are placed on channel which missing member was operating on.C. Transmitting button of one HT is pressed.D. The HT speakers are held one to two inches apart. This distance will produce the

loudest high pitch feedback tone. (The feedback created by these two HT's willbe transmitted to other HT's on the same frequency as far as a mile away).

NOTE: THE HT IS EQUIPPED WITH A "TIME-OUT-TIMER" WHICH CUTS OFF THE

TRANSMITTER AFTER 30 SECONDS OF CONTINUOUS OPERATION TOELIMINATE THE "STUCK BUTTON" PROBLEM. THE MEMBER DESIGNATED TO

PRODUCE THE FEEDBACK WILL HAVE TO RELEASE THE PUSH-TO-TALK

BUTTON MOMENTARILY EVERY 30 SECONDS TO RE-KEY THE TRANSMITTER.

5.7 Feedback will be transmitted from the trapped member's HT, permitting searchers to

home in.

5.8 Search is conducted with as much ambient noise eliminated as possible (shutting downof department radios, apparatus, etc.).

5.9 Searchers listen for feedback emanating from trapped member's HT. When feedbacktone has been detected, searchers home in on location by use of this feedback.

5.10 When the definite location of member has been determined, the feedback signal should

be discontinued to lessen the discomfort of trapped member and to enable

communication between said member and searchers.


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NOTE: THE EMERGENCY ALERT TONE CAN BE UTILIZED IN A SIMILAR MANNER.

THIS PROCEDURE TAKES OF ADVANTAGE OF THE INCREASED WATTAGE OF

THE EMERGENCY ALERT TONE AND MAXIMUM VOLUME OUTPUT

REGARDLESS OF THE MISSING MEMBERS VOLUME SETTING AND ONLY

REQUIRES ONE HANDIE TALKIE.

THE EMERGENCY ALERT TONE WILL BE CREATED BY THE DESIGNATED MEMBER

AS FOLLOWS:

A. THE HANDIE TALKIE IS TURNED ON.

B. HT IS PLACED ON CHANNEL WHICH MISSING MEMBER WAS OPERATING

ON.

C. THE EMERGENCY ALERT BUTTON IS PRESSED EVERY FEW SECONDS TO

TRANSMIT THE ALERT TONE AND THEN PAUSING, ALLOWING FOR THE

POSSIBILITY OF RESPONSE FROM THE TRAPPED MEMBER.

6 HIGH RISE/HOSPITALS - GENERAL INFORMATION

6.1 Elevator cars, core areas and stairs in general hamper effective HT operations.

6.2 Certain areas in a building allow good HT operations, such as outer area of the

structure, windows or unobstructed shafts. It may be necessary to move arounduntil best location is found.

6.3 There is a possibility that radio frequency (RF) transmissions may affect the

operation of medical equipment in hospitals.

6.4 Members shall, during non-emergency visits to hospitals, restrict the use of HTand other RF transmissions (cellular phones, etc.) in-patient care areas of

hospitals.

6.5 Except in an emergency, members shall leave the patient care area prior totransmitting via HT.


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7 HANDIE TALKIE SUBWAY RELAY

If units arrive at the scene of a subway equipped with an operating repeater, the

appropriate officers shall switch to Channel 14 (Primary Subway Repeater Channel) on

their HT and follow the interim SOP (see AUC 207, Addendum 16).

NOTE:An effective HT relay must be established whether the station is equipped with

a repeater or not. Members of the 1st truck and the Officer of the 1st engine shall beutilized when establishing a HT relay.

7.1 Truck Chauffeur takes a position at the bottom of subway entrance stairs. If

token booth is within 50 yards of stairs to street, contact main dispatcher throughthe clerk. (There is a telephone in the booth.) Information obtained should be

relayed to Company Officer andINCIDENT COMMANDER.

7.2 OV firefighter takes a position at the foot of stairs leading to the train platform if

it is within 50 yards of chauffeur.

7.3 Roof firefighter takes a position approximately 50 yards from the stairs on

platform.

7.4 Engine Officer takes a position approximately 100 yards from the roof

firefighter on the platform.

7.5 Additional HT equipped members every 100 yards, if necessary.

7.6 Truck Officer proceeds to the location of the fire.

This system can also be adapted for large cellars, sub cellars and maze type areas.

NOTE: 1. HT communications are poor from level to level. Communications in

straight line are from fair to poor. Some subway stations have multiple

levels underground, which will require additional handie talkies.The objective is to be able to communicate to grade level.

2. If available, POST RADIOS OR sound powered phones shall be utilized at

subway operations.


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NOTES:

For example, the OV may be able toenhance communications by moving

back and forth between the top and

bottom of the platform stairs.

Additional H.T. equipped members maybe needed to maintain communications,

especially at locations with multiple

underground levels


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8 USE, CARE AND MAINTENANCE

8.1 At the beginning of each tour a visual check of all HTs assigned to the unit must

be made. Officers shall assign individual HTs to members at Roll Call according

to the established guidelines.

8.2 Individual members shall perform necessary tests to ensure proper operation ofHT. Any malfunction discovered should be brought to the attention of the Officerimmediately. Members are responsible for compliance with procedures

established by Company Commanders to assure security of HT.

8.3 To reduce damage to the HT unit and to protect it from adverse weather

conditions, the unit must be worn under the bunker coat.

8.4 Members should monitor the HT while responding to hear any transmission of

units on scene relative to possible location of occupants, need for life saving rope,ventilation required, and to receive instructions from the Incident Commander.

8.5 Many HTs will be in use at an all hands operation. Therefore, unnecessary chattershall be kept to a minimum to avoid monopolizing the HT frequency.

8.6 When more than one HT is being used in close proximity to another, a whining or

screeching noise (feedback) may result interfering with the use of HT. THIS CAN

BE OVERCOME BY KEEPING A HAND OVER THE REMOTE MIC, IF SO EQUIPPED, OF

THE UNUSED RADIOS IN THE AREA.

9 USING THE HANDI-TALKIE WITH THE SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING

APPARATUS

9.1 ALL FACEPIECES ARE EQUIPPED WITH VOICEMITTERS (AV2000).THE PROPER

PROCEDURE FOR USE OF THE HT WITH THE VOICEMITTER IS TO:

A. Remove the microphone from the harness clip.B. Place the microphone DIRECTLYON the voicemitter.C. After completing the transmission, the microphone can be returned to the

harness clip.


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10 RADIODISCIPLINE

10.1 Every firefighter will be equipped with their own HT. We must all remember that

the HT is a tool of communications and should be used with discipline. The

foremost use of our HT is as a listening device.

10.2 At the scene of an expanding operation there will be numerous HTs on the scene.Members should be listening to the radio traffic keeping them abreast of thesituation. Your message at that precise moment may not be the most important

message at the time. Before transmitting (excluding an emergency report)

member shall listen making sure the HT network is clear. Once certain notransmissions are taking place member can than transmit their message.

10.3 Members must also be aware that a message transmitted but not responded toshould be considered not received. Member shall continue their transmission until

they receive a response.

11 EMERGENCY ROLL CALL PROCEDURES

11.1 Conditions requiring an Emergency Roll Call

There are many situations where emergency roll calls are necessary. Someexamples are:

Mayday transmission for Collapse Imminent/Collapse Occurred, Urgent

Transmission for Interior attack discontinued and exterior attack instituted orLoss of water endangering members.

Anytime a building or area is evacuated, Chief or company officers shall

account for all members in preparation of a roll call by the IC.

Anytime the IC determines an emergency roll call is necessary to account for

members.

11.2 The member conducting the emergency roll call will be known as the Roll Call

Officer (RCO). The RCO must be assisted by another member who is responsible

for monitoring the HT frequency that the emergency roll call is being conductedon and recording the members by position, as they reply.

The RCO conducting the emergency roll call must monitor the HT and make surethey are not interrupting any emergency transmissions before transmitting over

the appropriate frequency the following statement:

Roll Call Officer to All Units, Prepare for an Emergency Roll Call


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The RCO will then pause to give officers a chance to account for members, so

they can accurately reply when called. Each officer should now account for their

members within sight or hearing without using the HT.

11.3 Actions to be taken by firefighters when an emergency roll call is conductedA. Follow the directions included in the Mayday/Urgent transmission.

Maintain radio discipline. Do not transmit, unless:

Called by the RCO

You have a Mayday/Urgent of your own

You have a critical information regarding the Mayday/Urgent

You have a critical message affecting the on-going operation

B. If firefighting operations are to continue, complete your assignmentC. When a firefighter is answering an emergency roll call via the HT, they

will reply giving the company numberthey are working in, firefightingassignment and location.

Example: RCO to Ladder 123 Roof, What is your location?

Ladder 123 Roof to RCO, Im on the roof of the fire building.

This response is the procedure for all members, including details,

overtime etc., that may not be working in their assigned companies.

D. Members not in the immediate vicinity of the member in distress must

refrain from self deploying and becoming involved in any rescue efforts,

unless specifically ordered. Your assignment must be addressed asassigned. If your assignment is completed, you will be re-assigned as

needed by the IC. In numerous cases, when Mayday/Urgents were

transmitted, self deployed members became a hindrance to the rescueefforts.

If a members involvement in the rescue is necessary and they are unableto complete their firefighting assignment, the IC must be notified.

If at anytime while operating at a fire or emergency, you come across a

downed member, immediately notify the IC via the proper radiotransmission.

Anytime a member is unable to complete their assignment, they mustnotify the IC.


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11.4 Example Roll Call:RCO to Engine 234, account for your members.

Engine 234 to RCO, we have 4 firefighters and my Nozzle and Backup are

accounted for.RCO to Engine 234 ECC, What is your location?

Engine 234 ECC to RCO, I am operating the pumper.

RCO to Engine 234 Control, What is your location?Engine 234 Control to RCO, I am on the floor below flaking out the line.

RCO to Engine 234, all members of Engine 234 have been accounted for.

RCO to Ladder 123, account for your members.Ladder 123 to RCO, Ladder 123 has 5 firefighters; my Can and Irons are

accounted for.

RCO to Ladder 123 Roof, What is your location?

Ladder 123 Roof to RCO, Im on the roof of the fire building.RCO to Ladder 123 Chauffeur, What is your location?

Ladder 123 Chauffeur to RCO, Im on the turntable in front of Exposure 4.

RCO to Ladder 123 OV, What is your location?Ladder 123 OV to RCO, Im on the rear fire escape.

RCO to Ladder 123, all members of Ladder 123 are accounted for.

RCO to Rescue 1, account for you members.Rescue 1 to RCO, Rescue 1 has 5 firefighters; my Irons, Can and OV are

accounted for.

RCO to Rescue 1 Roof, What is your location?

Rescue 1 Roof to RCO, I am on the roof of the fire building.RCO to Rescue 1 Chauffeur, What is your location?

Rescue 1 Chauffeur to RCO, I am on the floor above.

RCO to Rescue 1, all members of Rescue 1 are accounted for.

11.5 When the roll call is completed, the RCO shall announce over the appropriatefrequency, Roll Call Officer to all units, the Emergency Roll Call is completed.

12. ELECTRONIC FIREGROUND ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM (EFAS)

12.1 The Electronic Fireground Accountability System (EFAS) is designed to improvethe accountability of members at all operations. EFAS is installed on the MDT of allBattalion and Division vehicles allowing the Incident Commander (IC) the capabilityof:

Immediately identifying any member(s) activating the Emergency Alert Button on

their handie-talkie by displaying their company, position and name.


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Manually identifying any member(s) transmitting a verbal Mayday message via

handie-talkie.

Conducting an emergency electronic Roll Call.

Reviewing handie-talkie transmission history.

12.2 It shall be the responsibility of the first arriving Battalion Firefighter, afterperforming their primary duties, to monitor EFAS until relieved by an EFAS

trained member of theFAST Unit.

12.3 The EFAS program automatically starts up on the MDT when the vehicle ignition

is turned on. The EFAS window is designed to run behind the Starfire window.

The EFAS start-up is delayed 1 minute to allow Starfire to connect. Do notattempt to select the EFAS button during this time. Members must wait until

Starfire completely boots up before switching to the EFAS program.

12.4 Officers arriving at an incident, after they have transmitted their 10-84 via theMDT, must key their handie-talkie remote microphone once in order to check

in. Keying the handie-talkie remote microphone will have all members of the

unit recognized by EFAS.

12.5 When a member activates their Emergency Alert Button, their identity line in

EFAS will automatically be highlighted. Their company, position and name willbe listed in red in both the RADIO STATUS and MAYDAYS areas.

See figure 1- MAYDAY shown in RED

12.6 In addition, a hard copy automatically prints showing the company, position and

time of Mayday.

12.7 The members identity line will remain red in EFAS until the Emergency Alert is

resolved and the handie-talkie is reset. Once cleared, the members highlighted

identity line will change from red (active) back to white in the RADIOSTATUS area. The members highlighted identity line will change from red

(active) to yellow (cleared) and will remain in the MAYDAYS area.

12.8 The EFAS system is capable of handling multiple Emergency Alert transmissionsat the same time. All active MAYDAYS will appear in red in both the RADIO

STATUS and MAYDAYS area. Member monitoring EFAS may have toutilize the scroll bar in the RADIO STATUS and MAYDAY area, in

order view all MAYDAYS that were transmitted.


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Figure 1- MAYDAY shown in RED

12.9 If a member transmits a MAYDAY message on their handie-talkie, and does not activate

their Emergency Alert Button, the member monitoring EFAS shall highlight that memberby utilizing the MDT touch screen and manually assigning them a MAYDAY. Once a

MAYDAY is assigned, a hard copy will print showing the members company, position

and time MAYDAY was assigned.

12.9.1 Select the members name. A dialog box will appear for that member. The last

person to transmit is always the top line in the RADIO STATUS area.12.9.2 Select the ASSIGN MAYDAY button. This will highlight the members

company, position and name, in red, in both the RADIO STATUS and

MAYDAYS area.

See Figure 2 below


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Figure 2- Assign MAYDAY

12.10 In the event a member transmits a MAYDAY for another member (e.g.,

unconscious member), the transmitting member shall:

1. Depress the Emergency Alert button (EAB) on their own handie-talkie. Thiswill identify the member transmitting the MAYDAY on EFAS.

2. After the Emergency Alert activation, provide the Incident Commander with

the information required for the MAYDAY transmission.

3. If possible, depress the EAB of the member in distress. The activation of thedistressed members EAB will identify them on EFAS. Notify the IC via

handie-talkie prior to EAB activation of the distressed member.

4. Transmitting member shall reset (cancel) their handie-talkie Emergency Alertby depressing and holding the Emergency Alert button of their remote

microphone for approximately 2 seconds. The distressed members

Emergency Alert shall remain activated until determined it is no longerrequired.


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12.11 MAYDAY RESOLVED12.11.1 Select the members name. A dialog box will appear for that member.

12.11.2 Select the MANUALLY ACCOUNT button. Once cleared, the

members highlighted identity line will change from red (active) back towhite in the RADIO STATUS area. The members highlighted identity

line will change from red (active) to yellow (cleared) and will remain in

the MAYDAYS area.

Figure 3

12.12 ELECTRONIC ROLL CALL

1. Select BEGIN ROLL CALL button located at the top of the EFAS screen.2. This will bring up the ROLL CALL screen. The left column will contain all

members UNACCOUNTED FOR at the beginning of the Roll Call.

3. When members key their remote microphone three times, their name will move

from the UNACCOUNTED FOR column on the EFAS screen (left side) to theACCOUNTED FOR column on the EFAS screen (right side). See Figure 4

4. If a member does not key their handie-talkie remote microphone, they will remainon the UNACCOUNTED FOR EFAS column and will need to be contacted.

5. If a member is confirmed accounted for but they do not have ability to click theirhandie-talkie remote microphone, you can manually account for the member.

Select the members name in the UNACCOUNTED FOR column by utilizingthe MDT touch screen. A dialog box will appear for that member, select the

MANUALLY ACCOUNT button. See Figure 5


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Figure 4

Figure 5


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6. When the Roll Call is complete, select the END ROLL CALL button

located at the top of the EFAS screen. A dialog box will appear, select theEND ROLL CALL. button. See Figure 6 below

Figure 6

12.13 NON ESSENTIAL PERSONNEL shall be defined as any company not assigned to

the incidentbut because of their proximity to the incident will show up on the EFASscreen as a result of utilizing their handie-talkie.

12.14 EFAS defaults to Tactical Channel 1; however, it has the capability of monitoring any of

the 16 Channels. The IC shall assign an additional member to monitor EFAS for eachchannel in use e.g., secondary tactical, primary command, secondary command.

A separate Battalion/EFAS equipped vehicle and EFAS trained member is required for

each channel in use.

12.15 EFAS has the capability to convert the digital data designated by the spare radios. As a

result, members who are assigned a spare radio will be identified by their Company andRiding position.


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Radio Code Signals


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10-1 Call your Quarters or Other Unit

10-2 Return to Quarters

10-3 Call Dispatcher by Telephone

10-4 Acknowledgment

10-5 Repeat Message

10-6 Stand By10-7 Verify Address/Location

10-8 In-Service by Radio10-9 Off the Air

10-10 Unit Location

10-11 Radio Test Count

10-12 Preliminary Report

10-14 Roster Staffed Engine Company

10-18 Return all Units, except1 Engine AND 1 Ladder

10-19 Return All Units, except

1 Engine OR 1 Ladder

10-20 Proceed at Reduced Speed

10-21 Brush Fire

10-22 Outside Rubbish Fire

10-23 Abandoned/Derelict Vehicle Fire

(ADV)

10-24 Auto Fire

10-25 Manhole or Transformer Fire or

Emergency

Code 1: Fire has extended into a

building.

Code 2: Fire has blown one or moremanhole covers, or smoke is

issuing from a manhole under

pressure.

Code 3: Smoke is seeping from amanhole.

Code 4: Fire or smoke from a

transformer at any location i.e.

pole, vault, room, etc

10-26 Food on Stove

10-27 Compactor or Incinerator Fire

10-28 Subway or Railroad System - Fire,

Emergency (non-medical) or Smoke

Code 1: Structural fire

Code 2: Non-Structural fire (e.g. train

fire, rubbish on the tracks, etc)

Code 3: Emergency (non-medical)

10-31 Assist Civilian

10-32 Defective Oil Burner

10-33 Odor ConditionCode 1: Odor of smoke

Code 2: Any other type of odor

10-34 Sprinkler System EmergencyCode 1: Defective device /system

Code 2: Unwarranted/not defective

Code 3: Activated by heat source other

than accidental fire

10-35 Unwarranted/Unnecessary AlarmSystem Activation

No Code: Unwarranted(defective

condition)

Code 1-4: Unnecessary Alarms caused

by the following

Code 1: System testing/servicing

Code 2: Construction activities

Code 3: Ordinary household activities

Code 4: Other known cause (smoking

in unauthorized area, etc)

10-36 Vehicle Accident or Emergency:

Code 1: Requires wash-down

Code 2: No injuries & no wash-down

Code 3: Injuries occurred

Code 4: A trapped victim requiring

extrication, with or w/o

injuries

No Code: Other than above


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10-37 Medical Assignment Not

Associated With Fire Operations

Code 1: Victim deceased

Code 2: not breathing/life threatening

injury/illness or requiring resuscitation

Code 3: breathing/ non-life

threatening injury/illness

Code 4: Unit is 10-84, NO patient

contact and EMS is on scene

Note: Signal 10-45 shall be

transmitted for thermal burninjuries.

10-38 Carbon Monoxide Response

10-39 FD Standing By

10-40 Utility Emergency

Code 1: Gas Emergency

Code 2: Electrical Emergency

Code 3: Water Condition

Code 4: Steam Leak

10-41 Suspicious Fire (Code Required)

10-44 Request for Ambulance

10-45 Civilian DOA or Serious Injury(Fire Related ONLY)

Code 1

Deceased, EMS color tag BLACK

Code 2

Life threatening injury, EMS color tag

RED/ORANGE

Code 3Non-Life threatening, EMS color tag

YELLOW

Code 4

Non-serious injury/ambulatory, EMS color

tag GREEN

10-47 Police Response

10-48 Police Response for Harassment

10-51 Suspension of Outside Activities

10-60 Major Emergency Response

10-66 Missing, Lost, Trapped, or

Seriously Injured Member

Requiring Extrication

10-70 Water Supply Is Required

10-75 Notification of a Fire orEmergency

10-76 Notification of a Fire in a High-

Rise Building

10-77 Notification of a Fire in a High-

Rise Multiple Dwelling

10-80 Hazardous Material Incident

Code 1An incident that requires additional

resources not carried by regularfield units to mitigate a spill or

release that requires specialized

training, knowledge, equipment or

PPE.

Code 2

An incident that involves a spill or

release with 4 or less contaminated

civilians or responders and requiresHaz-Mat resources for possible

rescue, mitigation and

decontamination.

Code 3

A Mass Decontamination incidentwhere 5 or more civilians or

responders are contaminated and

additional Department resources areneeded above the Code 2 level.

Code 4

A Mass Decontamination

Response requiring Mass DeconTask Forces (MDTF) to

decontaminate a large number of

victims as quickly as possible.


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10-84 First Unit to Arrive.

10-85 Fire Marshal requires emergency

police assistance (specify reason)

10-86 FluoroproteinFoam Operation

10-87 High ExpansionFoam Operation

10-91 Medical Emergency EMS-Fire

Unit not Required

10-92 Malicious False Alarm

10-99 Unit Will Be Operating for at

least 30 Min


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PART TWOEXPOSURE IDENTIFICATION


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EXPOSURE IDENTIFICATION2. The system uses a series of numbers and letters to develop an identification code which is

directly related to the building or occupancy the communicator is talking about. This

system always uses as a reference point, the view as seen by a person standing in front ofand looking at the fire building.

2.1 Buildings separated by more than thirty feet from the fire building, should not be

identified as exposures unless the volume of fire or complexity of the incidentcauses an exposure problem.

3. Numbers indicate direction (front, left, rear and right).

4. Letters indicate distance from the main fire building or fire.

5. Explanation of numbers:

5.1 "0" - when used as the first digit it indicates the FIRE BUILDING or FIRE

AREA.

5.2 "0" - when used in any other position "0" refers to a subdivision of the buildingwhich is identified by the number following the "0" or the letters following the

"0".5.3 "1" - is used to indicate the street in front of the main fire building or the

buildings opposite the front of the main fire building.

5.4 "2" - is used to indicate any building or area to the left of the main fire building.

5.5 "3" - is used to indicate any building or area to the rear of the main fire building.

5.6 "4" - is used to indicate any building or area to the right of the main fire building.

6. Explanation of letters:

6.1 "A" - is used to indicate the second building or

subdivision from the main fire building or fire area.

6.2 "B" - is used to indicate the third building or subdivision.

6.3 "C" - is used to indicate the fourth building or subdivision.

6.4 "D" - is used to indicate the fifth building or subdivision.

6.5 "E" - is used to indicate the sixth, "F" is the 7th, and so on down the alphabet.


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Illustration # 1


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7. The following illustrations show how the exposure system is used:

7.1 Illustration 1, depicts a single building. The building is identified as "O", "1" is a street,"2" is a lot "3" is a lot and "4" is a lot. This indicates that the building is isolated.

7.2 Illustration 2 depicts a taxpayer with nine (9) individual stores, or nine subdivisions. The

fire is located in the center store. The store to the immediate left of the fire store isidentified as exposure "O-2", the next store on the left (two stores from the fire store) is

"0-2A", the third store on the left would be "O-2B" and the fourth store would be "02C".

The first store on the immediate right of the fire store would be exposure "0-4", thesecond store on the right would be "0-4A", the third store would be "0-4B", and the

fourth store would be "0-4C".

3

O O O O O O O O

2 2 2 2 2 O 4 4 4 4 4C B A A B C

1

Illustration # 2


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7.3 Illustration 3 depicts a more complex problem. It uses as a foundation the taxpayer shown

in illustration #2. The fire building is identified as "0" and all subdivisions are identified

by having their ID codes start with "0". The second character in the identification code isa number and indicates the direction; "2" indicates the left side and "4" indicates the right

side. The third character is a letter and indicates how far away from the fire store the

subdivision is located. Exposure "1", for this illustration is a street. The first building to

the left of the fire building is exposure "2", the second is "2A". The buildings directly tothe rear of the fire building are exposure "3". The building immediately to the right of

the fire building is identified as exposure "4", the next building to the right is exposure

"4A", than "4B", "4C",etc.

Illustration #3

Note: To eliminate any confusion in identifying rear exposures, all buildings in the rear shall bereferred to as exposure "3". If operations on exposure "3" become too complex, the

Incident Commander should create a sector and assign a sector officer to manage this

area.


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7.4 Illustration #4 shows how the system builds; it starts with a fire in the taxpayer, "O", that

extends to the right and then out of the taxpayer and into the windows of the top floor of

exposure "4". Exposure "4" is an "H-type" building and because of its size, we willmentally subdivide it into sections. Each of the arms of the "H" will be identified as

WINGS. In this illustration the wing closest to the fire building is wing "A", the next arm

is wing "B" and if there is a third or fourth wing they would be identified as wing "C" and

wing "D". Wings are identified from left to right looking from the front of the building:If necessary each wing can be further subdivided from front to rear using the terms

FRONT, CENTER, and REAR. The part of the building connecting each wing shall be

designated the throat and shall be referred to as the throat between "A" wing and "B"wing etc.

Illustration # 4


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8. Illustration 5 depicts a fire that originated in the "H" building and has extended to the left

into the taxpayer. It has advanced down the row of stores to the third store and threatens

the fourth store. The "H" type building is identified as "O", the taxpayer is exposure "2"and the first store or subdivision of the taxpayer is identified as "2-0". The "2" indicates

the first building on the left; the "O" following a number indicates that we are now

referring to a subdivision. The second store is "2-OA", the third store is "2-OB", the 4th

is "2-OC", the 5th is "2-OD", the 6th is "2-OE". The next building is a separate building,not part of the taxpayer and is identified as exposure "2A", then "2B", etc. The buildings

opposite the fire building represent exposure "1" because either the separation is less than

30 feet or the intense fire creates an exposure problem.

Illustration # 5


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PART THREE

SECTION TITLE PAGE

1. INTRODUCTION ...............................................................................41

2. DESCRIPTION AND USE OF HANDIE-TALKIE................................41

3. SPECIAL FEATURES .........................................................................48

4. EQUIPMENT DISTRIBUTION AND ASSIGNMENTS ........................49

5. UNIT INTRACOMMUNICATIONS.....................................................49

6. MAINTENANCE OF HANDIE-TALKIE EQUIPMENT .......................50

7. RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) INTERFENCE AND DEADSPOTS ..........50


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1. INTRODUCTIONIn order to meet the department's communications needs, a comprehensive communications

system is being developed. The first phase includes new handie-talkie radios with enhanced

features, vehicular cross band repeaters and 45-watt post radios. These three components

will significantly improve communications in fire operations.

1.1 Handie-Talkies: (HT)

The Department has purchased 2 models of Motorola XTS3500R analog UHF

HTs. They provide Interagency/Interoperability communications, as well as future

Fire Dispatch communications.

Note: Currently some in-building repeaters are not compatible with UHF HTs.

2. DESCRIPTION AND USE OF HT

2.1 Two XTS3500R HT models (Model I and Model III) come equipped with thefollowing:

2 Watt to 5 Watt capability 5" whip antenna Nickel Cadmium rechargeable battery Carrying case with an adjustable shoulder strap

2.2 LCD Display: (Model III only)The Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) provides visual information, including Zone

Indication and Selected Channel. Every handie-talkie has an assigned 7-digit numeric

Internal Identification Code. The code identifies the company and assigned riding

position of the radio. This code will appear on the LCD screen of Model IIIs for all

transmissions. Activation of the Emergency Alert Button will cause the ID number tobe preceded by the letters EM:

Model III radio is also capable of receiving a special 7-digit number specifically

assigned to each radio, which will appear its LCD screen for all transmissions.

Note: EM and the members ID code will appear again if the second "Emergency Alert

Tone" is sent and/or each time the member depresses his/her push-to-talk button until

member resets the Emergency Alert Button.


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5" Whip Antenna

Volume Control/

ON-OFF Knob

Concentric Switch

(disabled)

Emergency

Alert Button

Company ID#

Push-To-Talk

Button

3 Position ZoneSelector A-B-C

Light

Button

"Squelch"

Button

Disabled

For future use

Lock Screw for RemoteMic

Remote Mic

ConnectionLED Light

Microphone

Channel

Frequency

Indicator

S eaker

16 Channel

FrequencySelectorKnob

MODEL I


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3X4

Alphanumeric

Keypad

Multifunction

LCD

Speaker

EmergencyAlert

Button

Concentric Switch

(Disabled)

Remote Mic

Connector

CompanyID#

Push-To-Talk

Disabled

(Gray)

For future use

"Squelch"

Button(Gray)

Light

Button

(Purple)

3 Position

Zone Selector

(A-B-C)

Volume Control/

ON-OFF Knob

16 ChannelFrequency

Selector Knob

5" Whip

Antenna

Lock Screw forRemote Mic

LED Light

Soft Keys

Microphone

Channel

Frequency

Indicator

MODEL III


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REMOTE MICROPHONE

MICROPHONE

PUSH-TO-TALK

BUTTON

SPEAKER


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2.3 ON-OFF/Volume Knob:

Radio ON: Rotate knob clockwise until a click is heard or felt. The radio will go

through a power-up self-test. The Model III display shows "Self Test". When the radio

passes the self-test, it emits a short tone sound. If the radio fails the self-test, the radioemits a low-pitched tone sound. The Model III display shows "FAIL XX/YY", where

XX/YY is an alphanumeric code. Turn the radio off, check the battery, and turn the radioback on. If the radio still does not pass its self-test, it is defective. The defect shall benoted on a repair tag and the HT sent for repair.

The HT must be turned ON prior to donning the bunker coat. Volume must be adjusted

for effective communications. Operating at maximum volume increases feedback, which

may interfere with communications. To reduce damage to the HT unit and to protect itfrom adverse weather conditions, the unit must be worn under the bunker coat.

2.4 Push-To-Talk (PTT) Button:

Puts Radio in the Transmit Mode PTT function is also extended to the remotemicrophone. When the PTT button is depressed it transmits a pre-determined 7-digit

number, specifically assigned to that radio. When the PTT switch is released at the endof a transmission, a tone will be heard through the microphone speaker. The tone level is

proportional to the volume setting.

2.5 A/B/C Switch:

(Model I) Disabled (except for selected units)(Model III) Chief Officers and selected units selects any of 3 zones

2.7 Emergency AlertButton (EAB): (Top Orange Button)

2.7.1 When the Emergency Alert Button is activated; the wattage of the transmission

will be increased from 2 watts to 5 watts. This activation initiates one set ofdistinctive tones on the transmitting radio called a "Beacon" and another set ofdistinctive tones on the receiving radio(s) called the "Emergency Alert Tones."

2.7.2 Emergency tones are sent at maximum power to facilitate better buildingpenetration and will be heard at maximum volume regardless of the receiving

radios volume setting. They are intended to signal the Incident Commander and

other firefighters at the scene that there is a Mayday/Urgent transmission in

progress. All other radio traffic should cease to clear the channel for the

message to be heard.

2.7.3 The Emergency Alert Button, when activated, immediately transmits a distinctivetone on the selected channel. A second "Emergency Alert Tone" will be

transmitted automatically 10 seconds after the initial tone if the following

conditions are present:

The firefighter who activated the emergency alert button has not pressed theradio or remote microphone push-to-talk button within 10 seconds.


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There is no activity on the channel at the instant that the radio attempts to sendthe second tone. If the channel is busy the radio will postpone the attempt

until there is no activity on the channel.

The firefighter who initiated the emergency has not reset the Emergency AlertButton.

2.7.4 When activated, the Emergency Alert Button sends out an electronic

identification signal, preceded by the letters EM that can be read on all Model III

radio LCD screens within reception range. This gives Chief Officers the ability toidentify the unit and the assigned position of the member transmitting the

emergency. This will facilitate in contacting and locating the member.

2.7.5 The Emergency Alert Button produces a distinctive set of tones on the radio that

activated the emergency. These "Beacon" tones will be heard at maximumvolume regardless of the radio's volume setting. These tones serve two purposes.

1. To have a continuously repeating beacon tone coming from the

transmitting radio. This allows other members in close proximity to home

in on the beacon while trying to locate the member with the emergency.The beacon tone takes priority over received audio; that is, the radio will

interrupt any incoming audio on the radio transmitting the emergency in

order to sound the beacon at regular intervals. The "Beacon" will continueto transmit at the member's location until reset.

2. To alert the member who activated the Emergency Alert Button. This will

inform the member that it is his/her radio transmitting the emergency.

In the event of an accidental transmission, member must immediatelynotify the Incident Commander, cancel the emergency and then reset the

Emergency Alert Button. To reset the Emergency Alert Button, the

member can either depress the Emergency Alert Button and hold it forapproximately 2 seconds until a reset tone is heard, then release the button,or simply turn the radio off and then back on.

Notes:

If an Emergency Alert and subsequent voice communication are notacknowledged, the "Emergency Alert Tone" can be resent by brieflydepressing the emergency button again.

If a member is directed to switch channels while in the Emergency AlertMode its "Beacon" will continue to sound until reset. In addition, themember's "EM" signal will be transmitted on the new channel.

As with the previous handie-talkie models, unforeseen and isolated incidentsof radio frequency peculiarities continue to be experienced which interfere

with communications procedures. These have been found due to proximity ofradios, radios out of range or poor radio discipline.

Can be activated from the HT base by holding for approximately a second. Can be deactivated using the HT base by holding down for 2 seconds.


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2.8 Light Button: (Purple)

Turns Channel Selector Knob and LCD (Model III) backlight ON for 5 seconds.

2.9 Squelch Button: (Upper Gray)

Depressing the squelch button momentarily opens the internal squelch of the radio for the

duration of button actuation.Model III LCD Display shows the speaker symbol when squelch is in open mode.

2.11 MultifunctionLED:

When the HT is turned ON, the LED temporarily illuminates Green and is followed by ashort tone. This indicates that the HT is in proper working order.

Steady Red Radio is transmittingFlashing Red (while transmitting) Low battery or when the radio

voltage temporarily drops below the

preset alert level

Flashing Green (while transmitting) Battery too low to transmit butreception is possible

2.14 Zone Selection: (Certain Model I and all Model III) Each zone is a grouping of channels.The HT is provided with three distinct zones, Zones A, B and C. To select any of the

three Zones, flip the A/B/C Switch to appropriate Zone.

2.15 Channel Selection: 16 Position Select Knob

Rotate to select specific channel. The Model III LCD display shows the selected zoneand channel. When changing channels, you must ensure that the channel selector knob is

on the intended channel. If the channel selector knob is inadvertently placed between

channels, an incorrect channel may be activated. You must stop at a full click.2.16 Remote Speaker/Microphone

Is provided with a hang up clip for attachment to the shoulder strap or a heavy springloaded clip for attachment to the bunker coat.


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3. SPECIAL FEATURES

3.1 Water Resistance

Radios and the remote speaker/microphones are designed to be water resistant to the

effects of temporary submersion. Water resistance is highly dependent on proper

use/connection and condition of the radio seal elements. Therefore, the radio should notbe subject to unwarranted or casual submersion outside the function of firefighting.

3.2 Audible Tone at End of Transmission (a.k.a. Key-up or Trailing Tone)

At end of each transmission, the radio emits an audible tone to:

1) inform the operator of the volume setting,

2) indicate that the radio is functioning properly and3) to signal the receivers' radio of the end of transmission.

3.3 Audible Indication of Volume Setting

The radio operator may determine the volume setting in 3 ways:

1) level of audio during reception,2) "squelch noise" when depressing upper gray button and

3) audible tone at end of each transmission.

3.4 30 Second Time-Out-TimerThis feature cuts off the transmitter after 30 seconds of continuous transmission and is

especially useful to correct the "stuck-button" problem. At the remote microphone

speaker, the radio emits a short audible warning tone at approximately 26 seconds and acontinuous tone at approximately 30 seconds. This indicates that the transmitter has been

shut off. The operator can re-key the transmitter again if a longer transmission is

required. This resets the Time-Out-Timer.

3.5 Intrinsically Safe and Non-IncendiveThe radio is approved to be Intrinsically Safe and Non-Incendive for several classifiedhazardous (flammable or explosive) environments when used with specific batteries.

This means that the radio will not release sufficient electrical or thermal energy under

normal or abnormal conditions to cause ignition of specific flammable vapors, liquid orgas, or combustible dusts or fibers in their most easily ignitable concentrations.

3.6 Handie-Talkies and cell phones shall not be used within 150 feet of vehicles transporting

explosives, explosive magazines, or areas where blasting operations are in progress.Apparatus, Post, and Marine radios shall not be operated within 300 feet of such areas.

Units responding to emergencies for reported explosive devices shall follow the distance

guidelines stated above. In addition, Handie-Talkies shall not be operated in a building inwhich police personnel are searching for an explosive device.


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4. EQUIPMENT DISTRIBUTION AND ASSIGNMENTS4.3 Positional Radio Assignments

Engraved on the side of every unit's radio is the Company number and the assigned

position of the radio. Examples:

For Engine 79 Officer: FDNY E079-01

For Ladder 81 Roof: FDNY L081-03

Companies shall adhere to the following assignment andrecord it on the BF-4 each tour.

4 FIREFIGHTER

ENGINE COMPANY

5 FIREFIGHTER

ENGINE COMPANY

LADDER

COMPANY

Officer 01 Officer 01 Officer 01

ECC 02 ECC 02 LCC/QC 02

Nozzle 03 Nozzle 03 Roof 03

Back-up 04 Back-up 04 OV 04Control 05 Control 05 Irons 05

Spare 06 Door 06 Can 06

Note: Any markings of the case MUST coincide with the assigned numerical

position of the radio.

4.4 Internal ID Code

Every radio has an assigned 7-digit numeric internal identification code.

Examples:

For Engine 79 Officer: 5079001

For Ladder 81 Roof: 7081003The internal code will appear on the LCD screen of Model IIIs for all received messages.

5. UNIT INTRACOMMUNICATIONS

The HT worn by the officer of the unit will be identified by the unit number. Other HTs

used by the same unit will be identified by unit number and position.

Example:

Company Officer: "Ladder 1 to Ladder 1 Roof. Have you opened the bulkhead yet? K"

Ladder 1 Roof: "Ladder 1 Roof to Ladder 1. Having difficulty with bulkhead door but

skylight is off. K"Officer: "Ladder 1, Ten-four."


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6. MAINTENANCE OF HT EQUIPMENT

6.1 If the HT becomes wet at an operation, or has been submerged in water, remove thebattery, dry, and clean the HT and battery contacts before re-attaching battery to the HT.

6.2 If the remote microphone becomes wet, or submerged, water trapped inside the speakergrille and microphone can be removed by shaking the unit well.

6.3 External battery charging contacts may be cleaned with an eraser if a coating is observed

on the contacts. Never use an abrasive.

6.5 Members should not remove or replace any accessories associated with the radio,

including antenna and remote microphone.

6.6 Member should not remove the radio housing. This will jeopardize the waterproofintegrity of the radio.

6.7 When HTs are sent for repair, they should be sent complete (radio, antenna, battery, andexternal remote microphone) with defect and company number recorded on tag. Leather

goods (cases and straps) should not be sent unless they need repair.

7. RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) INTERFERENCE AND DEADSPOTS

7.1 There are known and unknown locations where handie-talkie operations are hampered

e.g., hospitals and dense buildings. Buildings with communications difficulties should be

included in the CIDS program.

7.2 Communication transmissions and reception can sometimes be improved by moving afew feet or turning ones body.

7.3 Repeaters not included in our infrastructure could hamper FDNY communications.

As with the previous handie-talkie models, unforeseen and isolated incidents of radio frequency

peculiarities continue to be experienced which interfere with communications procedures. These

have been found due to proximity of radios, radios out of range or poor radio discipline.

BY ORDER OF THE FIRE COMMISSIONER AND CHIEF OF DEPARTMENT

07 Communications Fdny

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