Fire Fighters Pocketbook

N S WRURAL FIRE SERVICE

FIREFIGHTERS’POCKET BOOK

December 2004

NSW Rural Fire ServiceDecember 2004 ~ Version 1.0

In the field there are a number of important things all firefighters need toknow; from basic safety to vehicle and officer recognition. This pocketbook isdesigned to provide you with a fast, easy reference guide to these and otherimportant facts you will need at your fingertips.

Whilst some of the information contained is in summary form and is ‘rule ofthumb’, it is sufficient for you to make operational decisions. It has beendeveloped by firefighters, for firefighters and is concise, relevant and ruggedenough for you to take with you anywhere.

I would encourage you to keep this pocketbook with you at all times; you neverknow when the information may be of use to you and your crewmates.

The pocketbook is also available on the internet at http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

This pocketbook will also be reviewed periodically, so any suggestions forimprovements should be forwarded to Chief Superintendent, Alan Brinkworth,Manager Operations, Policy and Standards at [email protected]

Phil Koperberg AO, AFSM, BEMCommissioner

Foreword

NSW Rural Fire ServiceIndex 1

Accident . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51,76,77Acronyms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,2,3AFFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54Agency Liaison Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75Aircraft Callsigns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43Aircraft Hand Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44,45,46Aircraft Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42Aircraft Water Bombing Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40Alphabet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71ARSO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Assessing Fine Fuel Loads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85Australian Road Rules 1999 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13,14Authority Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15Authority of Officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15,16,17Beaufort Scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47Bee Sting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34BFFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54Biological Terrorism Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22Bleeding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33Brassards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102,103Briefing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Bulldozers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87Burns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32Bush Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82Bush Fire Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38Bush Fire Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80,81Bush Fire Mapping Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62,63Bush Fire Personal Protective Equipment . . . . . . .4Bush Fire Survival if in a Building . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Bush Fire Survival if in a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Bush Fire Survival if on Foot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Callsigns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43Category 1,2,7,9, Pumper . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106,107Chaplaincy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79Chemical Terrorism Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23CISS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78Classes of Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37,38

Colour Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36,50,72Combat Agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95Combat Agency Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94,95Communications Colour Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72Communications Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73Communications Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74Construction Rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87Conversion Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108Convoy Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70CPR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30Crimes Act 1900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Critical Incident Support Services (CISS) . . . . . .78Curing Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83Dangerous Goods Classes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Date Time Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Dead Man Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73,80,81Dehydration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Displan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94,95Divisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67,68DRABC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30,31,32,33,34Draughting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12,13,14,70DTG – Date Time Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2EAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30Electricity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24,25,26,27,28,29Emergency Procedure, Bush or Structure Fire . . .6Epaulettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96,97Estimating Degree of Slope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86Estimating Fuel Loads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85Explosive Devices & Suspicious Packages . . . . .23Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37FDI/FDR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39Finding North/South . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105Fire Area Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88Fire Bombing Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40Fire Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37,38

Index 1


Fire Danger Index and Rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39Fire Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37Firefighter Skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48Fire Investigation and Scene Preservation . . . . .35Fire Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38First Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30,31,32,33,34Foam Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54Fractures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33Frequencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74,75Friction Loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58Fronts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91Fuel Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85Fuel Containers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36Fuel Moisture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84Funnel Web Bite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33Graders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87Grassland Curing Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83Grid and Magnetic North . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60Grid Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61Ground to Air Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41Guiding Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52,53Hand Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44,45,46,52,53,57HazChem Scale for Fire or Spillage . . . . . . . . . . .18HazMat/Terrorism Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . .20,21Heart Attack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31Heat Exhaustion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31Heat Stress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31Heat Stroke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32Helicopter Marshalling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44,45,46Helicopter Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42Helmet Colours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98,99,100,101High Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90Hoses and Pressures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58,59Hydrant Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56ICS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66,67,68I’M SAFE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1Incident Control System (ICS) . . . . . . . . . .66,67,68

Incident Management Team (IMT) . . . . . . . . . . .68LACES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1Large Incident . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66Lateral Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30,34Log Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Low Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90,91Machine Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87Magnetic North . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60Map (State) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65,88Map Marking Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63Mapping Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62,63Map Referencing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61Map Scales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64Medium Incident . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66MVA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51,76,77North . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105Nozzle Pressures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58,59NSW Fire Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88,89Offensive Personal Protective Equipment . . . . . . .5Operations Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93Organisational Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92Parts of a Bush Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82Personal Protective Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4,5Phoenetic Alphabet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71Pole Top Fires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26Powers of Officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15,16,17PPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4,5Pressures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58,59Pumper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107Pump Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58Radioactive Terrorism Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . .22Radio Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11Radio Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74Ranking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96,97Recovery Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30,34Redback Spider Bite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Index 2


Regions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65Resource Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48Responding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12,13Response Team Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69Road Transport (Safety and TrafficManagement) Act 1999 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14RRAPID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Rural Fires Act, September 1997 . . . . . . . .16,17,38Rural Fire Service Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92,93Safe Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12,13,14Safe Working on Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51Safety Vests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51,104Scales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71Scene Preservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35Sectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67,68Seizure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34Service Vehicle Involved in an Accident . . . . . . .77Severe Bleeding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33Severed Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33Shock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41,44,45,46,52,53,57SitRep/Situation Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11Skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48Slope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86Small Incident . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66SMEACS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Snake and Spider Bites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33,34South . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105Spider Bites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33,34State Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69State Emergency and Rescue ManagementAct 1989 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94State Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65,88Step Potential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28Storm Damage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25Strike Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69Stroke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Structural Fires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24Structural Personal Protective Equipment . . . . . . .5Substations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25Survival if in a Building . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Survival if in a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Survival if on Foot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Suspicious Packages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23SWS Marker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56Tabards and Brassards . . . . .51,78,79,102,103,104Tactical Aircraft Callsigns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43Tanker Categories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106,107Tanker Protection System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58Task Force . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69T Card Colour Coding Identification . . . . . . . . . . .50T Card Resource Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48T Card Single Resource . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49Terrorism Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20,21,22,23Toban Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88,89Traffic Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13,14Trail Construction Rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87Transmission Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29Two Piece Uniform . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Urine Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10USAR Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108,109Vehicle Accident . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51Vehicle Categories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50,106,107Vehicle Checking Stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Very Large Incident . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67Volume of Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59Wasp Sting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34Water Bombing Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40Water Supply Hand Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57Weather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90,91Winds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47,90,91Wind Scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47Working on Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Index 3

NSW Rural Fire Service 1Acronyms ~ I’M SAFE / LACES

I’M SAFE – should I respond to an incident?

Am I sufficiently recovered?

Am I under the effect of any medication?

Am I under severe stress from work or personal worries?

Am I under the influence or badly hung over?

Am I tired and not adequately rested?

Am I currently competent?

Illness or InjuryMedicationStressAlcohol or DrugsFatigueExpertise

FirefighterEverybody looks out for everybody elseEverybody is aware of the current and anticipated behaviourof the fire and other incident hazards and precautionsEverybody speaks up about what is happening and theirconcerns at the incident and everybody listensEverybody has an ‘out’ planned and agreedEverybody helps everybody to survive. Everybody supportsthe decision to get clear of a hazard

Crew LeaderAssign a “lookout” to a safe vantage point in communicationwith crew leaderTerrain, weather, fire behaviour, the task and nearby activitiesMaintain suitable radio or other contactSuitable escape route/s checked and known by all crewSuitable, large enough, close enough and free of hazards

LACES

Awareness

Communications

Safety Refuge

Lookouts

Escape Route

AwarenessCommunications

Lookouts

Escape RouteSafety Refuge

NSW Rural Fire ServiceAcronyms ~ RRAPID / ARSO / DTG 2

Mobilise resources to incident or staging area

Collect data about the situation and resources

Choose a course of action based on the likely scenario,best and worst case scenario

Develop and document a plan based on your chosencourse of action

Use the SMEACS format

Execute and monitor deployment to the plan

RRAPIDReaction

Reconnaissance

Appreciation

Plan

Issue OrdersDeployment

What you and your crew do as you arrive at a particular type of fire or incident including your own safetyWhat you and your crew do to safely protect people at thefire or incidentWhat you and your crew do to safely protect items ofeconomic, environmental, cultural or personal valueWhat you and your crew do to safely help people and thearea affected by the fire or incident to return to normal

ARSO – your priorities at an indicent

Arrival &Approach

Rescue

Suppression

Overhaul

Abbreviated Date Time Group uses two digits for the date and 24 hour time

Example: 10:51 on 1 October 2005 would be 01 1051

Full Date Time Group uses date, time, month and year

Example: 10:51 on 26 January 2005 would be 26 1051 JAN 05

DTG ~ Date Time Group

NSW Rural Fire Service 3Acronym ~ SMEAC, Briefing

Stage Management of Briefing

• Identify the various leaders in command• Brief all relevant key personnel• Make sure that everyone can see and hear• State that questions can be asked at the end• Effectively manage interruptions• Handout relevant part/s of Incident Action Plan• Handout map/s• Be brief, accurate and confident• Brief keeping strictly to the SMEACS format

Briefing – at large incidents

SMEACS – a briefing sequence

Situation

Mission

Execution

Administration

Command

Safety

Current and Predicted – incident details, what is at risk,topography, weather, fire behaviour, hazard risks, resourcesdeployed, en route or availableObjectives – overall or specific, who/what is savable,where to stop fire/incident

Strategy and Tactics – task allocation, timing and safetyconsiderations

Assistance and Logistics – what support is needed,staging areas, personnel, fuel, food, water, facilities,information, where/when/quantity

Command, Control and Communications – organisation,divisions, sectors, chain of command, communications plan,channels and procedures

Safety Hazards LACES checklist

NSW Rural Fire ServicePPE 1 ~ Bush Fire 4

Bush fire personal protectiveequipment to be worn:• helmet, correctly marked, chin

strap and neck protector• non synthetic undergarments• overalls or two piece uniform• bootsTo be carried and used as required:• smoke goggles• smoke mask or cloth• bushfire flash hood• gloves• water bottle

It is advisable to carry:

• personal first aid kit, medication and sunscreen

• matches• knife• compass• authority card• pocket book, note book

and pen• personal requirements

Personal Protective Equipment 1(PPE) Garments are not to be modified or changed

Rank Epaulette

BF, AF, CL orGL plus VF &1st Aid

Rural Fire Service Patch

Rank

Brigade NameName


Rank Epaulette

Note: New jackets willhave epaulettes and twopockets. Name, rank,qualification/s and brigadename are to be sewn ontothe pocket flaps.

NSW Rural Fire Service 5PPE 2 – Offensive Structural

Offensive structural personal protective equipment:• helmet, correctly marked, chin strap and neck protector• structural flash hood• non synthetic undergarments• trousers of two piece uniform and shirt• offensive structural trousers and jacket• gloves• structural boots• personal guideline

Personal Protective Equipment 2(PPE) Garments are not to be modified or changed

Rank Epaulette


Rank Epaulette

Rural Fire Service

Patch

BF, AF, CL orGL plus VF &1st Aid

Rank

Brigade Name

Name

NSW Rural Fire ServiceDead Man Zone / Emergency Procedure 6

If a danger to the crew is identified:• Warn those in danger• Notify the Officer in Charge immediately• Activate a standard emergency signal• Activate preplanned emergency action

Emergency Signal• Repeated whistle blasts• Intermittent blasts of the siren at 5 second intervals• Repeated tugs on a guideline or hoseline• “Emergency” radio message• Crew to evacuate the area and report to Breathing Apparatus Control Officer (BACO)

Emergency Procedure (Bush Fire)

Emergency Procedure (Structure Fire)

Firefighters engaged on parallel or indirect attack may be working in the “dead man zone” and must appreciate the time and space required to find asafe refuge.

Dead Man Zone

The distance (metres) a line of fire will travel in 5 minutes

Forest Fire Danger Slope

Index (FDI) Level Ground 10 o (Up) Slope 20 o (Up) Slope

20 87 174 348

40 170 340 680

60 258 510 1020

80 338 676 1352Based on 12.5 tonnes per hectare – distances may be greater in heavier fuel loads

NSW Rural Fire Service 7Survival – in vehicle

Bush Fire Survival if in a vehicle• Full personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly worn and fastened• Be aware of your surroundings, note areas of little vegetation, natural shelter places,

escape routes and refuge areas• Be aware of current weather conditions and fire behaviour• Assess the risk of fire overrun• Don’t put yourself in this position in the first place – anticipate and avoid

hazardous locations – use the LACES checklist

• Don’t panic or cause others to panic – Warn others who may be in immediate danger• Send an emergency radio call giving your details, callsign and location• Don’t drive through dense smoke, you may have an accident or drive off the road• Park in open space, bare or burnt ground or in an area of least vegetation,

furthest from the path of the fire• Stay in your vehicle and operate protective equipment (spray bars)• Turn on the headlights, emergency lights and hazard warning lights,

leave engine running and sound horn• Petrol motors may stop working due to vapour lock• Close windows and air vents and turn off the air conditioning• Shelter under a coat or blanket to protect your body from the radiant heat

and lie down as close as possible to the floor• When the fire has passed – if vehicle is still safe, remain in the vehicle

– if vehicle is hazardous remain together as a crew andseek refuge in a safer location until conditions cool

• The air closest to the ground is the freshest• Coats or blankets should be taken and worn to provide supplementary protection

against radiated heat from the burnt out ground• Don’t touch the interior or exterior parts (particularly metal) of the vehicle, it will

be very hot and may still be burning

NSW Rural Fire ServiceSurvival – on foot 8

Bush Fire Survival if on foot• Full personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly worn and fastened• Be aware of your surroundings, note areas of little vegetation, natural shelter places,

escape routes and refuge areas• Be aware of current weather conditions and fire behaviour• Assess the risk of fire overrun• Don’t put yourself in this position in the first place – anticipate and avoid

hazardous locations – use the LACES checklist

• Don’t panic or cause others to panic• Don’t run through dense smoke, you may run into something, fall down or over a cliff• Don’t run through a fire which exceeds 1.5 metres high x 1.5 to 3 metres deep• Don’t try to outrun a fire uphill, for each 10o of slope the fire roughly doubles in the

rate of forward spread, preferably move across the slope out of the path of the fire• Seek bare or burnt ground or an area of little vegetation• Seek shelter by using a track, culvert, drain, wheel rut, cave, rock ledge,

large rock or fallen tree• Check that there are no air spaces under rocks, fallen trees, etc. which would

allow the fire to be channelled underneath• Shelter may be sought in large dams, rivers and streams• Avoid elevated water tanks• If time permits, clear away or burn as much flammable material as possible• Shelter on the side furthest from the path of the fire• Lie face down• Dig into the ground if possible, cover your body as much as possible to protect

against the radiant heat• A cloth or handkerchief, placed over your mouth and nose gives further protection• Limit breathing as much as possible• The air closest to the ground is the freshest

NSW Rural Fire Service 9Survival – in a building

Bush Fire Survival if in a building• Full personal protective equipment (PPE) correctly worn and fastened• Be aware of your surroundings• Be aware of current weather conditions and fire behaviour• A substantial building can offer the best shelter during the passage of a bush fire• Bush Fire Coordinating Committee policy recommends that capable persons

should not be evacuated from properly prepared dwellings• Last minute evacuations should be avoided

• Don’t panic or cause others to panic• Know the whereabouts of all crew and/or family and ensure their safety• Turn off electrical and gas systems• Fill bath and sinks with water and strategically place static supplies of water

externally (for firefighting)• Ensure gutters are clear, then block and fill with water• Close all doors and windows and seal gaps with towels or similar material• If possible have a battery powered radio and torch in working order• If time permits, clear away from around the building as much flammable material

as possible• Stay outside for as long as possible to extinguish small outbreaks• Shelter in the house away from the approaching fire• Once the fire has passed, move outside and extinguish any hot spots and check

the building for any signs of fire, especially the roof and under the house

NSW Rural Fire ServiceUrine Chart 10

Urine ChartHOW DEHYDRATED ARE YOU?For frontline fire fighting, 1 litre of fluid should be taken every hour

Highly Dehydrated

– Drink a large bottle of waterimmediately!

You are still seriously dehydrated– Drinking more now will make you feel

a lot better

Moderately dehydrated– You lose fluid on a regular basis throughout the day– Drink more water to get hydrated

Almost there– Get some more water in your system– Stay hydrated and healthy!

Great job– Now don’t let yourself get dehydrated– Drink at least 8-12 large glasses of water throughout

the day

CAFFEINATED AND SUGARY DRINKS AND ALCOHOL DEHYDRATE – LIMIT YOUR CONSUMPTION

You can have a sport drink to supplement electrolytes. They should be takenat the ratio of 1 sports drink to 10 equivalents of water.

Approved by the NSW Ambulance Service

DARK YELLOW

BRIGHT YELLOW

YELLOW

LIGHT YELLOW

CLEAR

NSW Rural Fire Service 11Radio Reports

Radio ReportsWhen responding:

Call sign, Crew strength and Officer in Charge (OIC)Incident Controller

Incident Controller and the name of the incident to be nominated andcommunicated to all at the incident and Fire Com

First arriving applianceCallsignPriority code (red, blue)Give or confirm locationGive or confirm map name and grid referenceGive or confirm type of incident (bush, grass, structure, AFA, MVA, false alarm, etc.)Advise investigating, commencing attack, standing by, etc.

Later arriving units to communicate with Incident Controller on approachFirst arriving appliance also provides detailed SitRep on arrival and as thesituation changes or as additional information is known, when majorbenchmarks have been achieved or at least every 30 minutes

Fire status (going, being controlled, contained, patrol, out)Fire behaviour and weather informationFuel type, fuel load and topographyChange of locationFor structure fire – what is involved and what are exposures, etc.For MVA – what is involved, traffic situation, road closures, etc.Communicate any change of Incident ControllerOther Agencies in attendance

Further InformationAny injuries, fatalities, persons trapped, persons missing, persons evacuatedAny person or asset under immediate threatAny person or asset under longer term threat (give timeframe)Objectives, strategy and tacticsAdditional firefighting or logistics resources requiredOther services required (rescue, NSWFB for HazMat, Police, Ambulance,electricity, heavy plant, aircraft, etc.)Any hazard or safety warningsAny suspicious circumstances

NSW Rural Fire ServiceSafe Driving 1 12

Safe Driving 1Response

All private vehicles are to observe all Australian Road Rules 1999, NSW Actsand Regulations at all timesIf you have an accident en-route you have defeated the purpose forwhich you were respondedDrivers to have an appropriate current driving licenceThe driver of any RFS vehicle is to comply with the legislated prescribedconcentration of alcohol (PCA)Respond means to drive urgently, but safely, using lights and sirens whereappropriate (lights are to be used but siren may not be appropriate whenresponding in remote areas or on private lands)Note: A driver must give way to emergency vehicles that display flashingblue or red lights or sound an alarmA driver must not move into the path of emergency vehicles and must moveout of the path of emergency vehicles that display flashing blue or red lightsor sound an alarmTreat all other road users as though they have not seen youNormally RFS vehicles respond for the initial responseRFS vehicles called out later to assist are to proceed (not respond) to theincident unless specifically requested by the district/team/zone manager,Incident Controller or other person with delegated authorityDriver and crew to wear seat belts at all times unless working on the fireground (eg. during grassland fire fighting from the rear of tankers)Ensure that you do not cause other road users to react and cause anaccident – you will be responsibleEnsure that your vehicle, anything attached to it or falling from it does notimpact with any other vehicle, pedestrian or object

NSW Rural Fire Service 13Safe Driving 2

Safe Driving 2Traffic Rules

Rule 306 of the Australian Road Rules 1999, provides exemptions for driversof emergency vehicles provided that “reasonable” care is taken, however,RFS SOPs require you to:

Come to a complete stop and do not to proceed until safe at:Red traffic lightsStop signUnguarded level crossing (do not enter if a train is approaching)Blind intersectionIntersection where traffic in some lanes is not visibleIntersection where RFS vehicle does not have right of way

Slow down to a safe speed, which will allow RFS vehicle to quicklystop if required at:

Give way signPedestrian crossing (unoccupied)Bus set downIn the vicinity of schools when students are arriving or leaving

Comply with the following:School zone speed limitSpeed limit when passing school bus displaying 40 km/h illuminated signStop at children’s crossingGive way at pedestrian crossing

Vehicle Checking StationsAll vehicles over 4.5 tonnes to enter vehicle checking stations (except when responding)

Log BooksDrivers of “Government Vehicles” are exempt from maintaining a “NationalDrivers Log Book”

NSW Rural Fire ServiceSafe Driving 3 14

Safe Driving 3Road Transport (Safety and Traffic Management) Act 1999No exemptions exist for drivers in regard to the provisions of the RoadTransport Act 1999 which include:

Negligent, furious or reckless drivingNegligent driving causing death or grievous bodily harmDriving at a speed or in a manner dangerousMenacing driving

Crimes Act 1900No exemptions exist for drivers in regard to the provisions of the Crimes Actwhich include:

Predatory drivingDangerous driving or aggravated dangerous driving occasioning death or grievous bodily harmInjuries by furious drivingCausing grievous bodily harm

NSW Rural Fire Service 15Authority Card ~ Front & Back

Authority Card Front

Authority Card Back

NSW Rural Fire ServiceAuthority of Officers 1 16

For the legal text refer to the Rural Fires Act, September 1997 asamended and regulations

s21 Functions of officers of rural fire brigadess22 General powers of rural fire brigades officers and otherss23 Power to enter premisess24 Closure of streets and public placess25 Making premises safes26 Use of water and works

– take and use without any payment any water from any source on anyland for the purpose of controlling or suppressing a fire

s27 Permission of State Rail Authority or Rail Access Corporation required– functions may not be exercised in relation to land or property vested

in State Rail Authority or Rail Infrastructure Corporation without thepermision of the Authority or Corporation

s28 Damage to propertys29 Notice of entrys30 Care to be takens31 Use of force (for gaining entry) s32 Authority to enter premisess40 Officer in charge may authorise others to exercise functionss41 Duty (of Police Service and others) to recognise authority of officerss128 Protection from liability

Authority of Officers 1

NSW Rural Fire Service 17Authority of Officers 2

Refer to Service Standard 1.3.2 Powers of Officers for further clarification

Service Standard 1.3.2 clause 2.11

The Commissioner has authorised Officers to enter any premises withoutnotice where it is necessary for the purpose of:

a. controlling or suppressing a fire;

b. protecting persons or property from an existing or imminent dangerarising out of:i. a fire;ii. an incident; oriii. other emergency;

c. determining if there is a fire on or near the premises; or

d. investigating the cause or origin of a fire.

Service Standard 1.3.2 clause 2.13

The Commissioner has authorised Officers to use reasonable force for thepurpose of gaining entry to a premises in circumstances where, in the opinionof the Officer, one or more of the following circumstances exist:

a. it is necessary for the purpose of controlling or suppressing a fire;

b. it is necessary for the purpose of protecting persons or property from anexisting or imminent danger arising out of:

i. a fire;ii. an incident; oriii. other emergency;

c. it is necessary for the purpose of determining if there is a fire on or near thepremises; or

d. it is necessary for the purpose of investigating the cause or origin of a fire.

Authority of Officers 2

NSW Rural Fire ServiceHazChem Chart 18

HazChem Scale for Fire or SpillageNotes For Guidance

1 Jets2 Fog In the absence of fog equipment, a fine spray may be used3 Foam4 Dry Agent Water must not be allowed to come into contact with the

substance at risk

V Can be violently or explosively reactiveFull Full body protective clothing with BABA Breathing apparatus plus protective glovesBA for For fires BA essential. If no fire, BA notFire Only essential for short exposureDilute May be washed to drain with large quantities

of waterContain Prevent by any means available, spillage from

entering drains or water courses

P V

R

S

S

T

T

W V

X

Y

Y

Z

Z

V V

Full

BA

BA for fire onlyBA

BA for fire only

Full

BA

BA for fire onlyBA

BA for fire only

Dilute Contain

Consider EvacuationE

NSW Rural Fire Service 19Dangerous Goods

Dangerous Goods ClassesNumbers Descriptions and labels

1 Explosives

2.1 Flammable gases

2.2 Non-flammable non-toxic gases

2.2 Oxidizing gas5.1 sub risk (nitrous oxide & oxygen only)

2.3 Toxic gases

3 Flammable liquids

4.1 Flammable solids (and other reactive substances)

4.2 Substances liable to spontaneous combustion

4.3 Substances that in contact with water emit flammable gases

5.1 Oxidizing substances

5.2 Organic peroxides

6.1 Toxic substances

6.2 Infectious substances

7 Radioactive material(category I)

7 Radioactive material(category II or III)

8 Corrosive substances

9 Miscellaneous dangerousgoods and articles

Mixed class label for road and rail transport

Subsidiary risk label to be used with elevated temperaturesubstances

NSW Rural Fire ServiceHazMat / Terrorism 1 20

(Defensive Strategy Only)

HazMat/Terrorism Guidelines

1 Safe Approach Treat all calls as potential HazmatsDon’t become a victim Always look for HazChem signsDon’t eat, drink or smoke if Safe distance, wind direction, vapour plume,contamination suspected, weather, terrain, run-off, collapseuntil checked Be aware of any suspicious activity

or characteristicsBeware of secondary hazards/devicesMinimise exposure timeMaximise shielding

2 Incident Command Set up command pointEstablish communicationsSituation report (combat authority to be called)Identify a staging areaMaintain incident logPreserve evidence

3 Rescue/Scene Security Cordon off danger areaEvacuate any person in close proximity and keep them togetherONLY rescue victim/s if safe to do soVictims may need decontaminationEliminate source of ignition

4 Identify HazMats From a safe distance identify (use binoculars)(If no hazardous materials – substance UN code and HazChem codeinformation panel, treat as 4WE) – quantity

– type of spillage (spill, fire, MVA, etc.)– name of carrier or manufacturer– location and access– threat to life (number of victims)– threat to property or environment

NSW Rural Fire Service 21HazMat / Terrorism 2

(Defensive Strategy Only) Continued

HazMat/Terrorism Guidelines

NSWFB is the sole combat agency for hazardous materials incidents throughout NSW, including all inland waterways.

The following actions require specialised HazMat TeamsRural Fire Service to assist as required

5 Assess potential harm and minimise environmental contamination

6 Call in resources

7 Monitor information

8 Render safe and decontaminate

ETHYL METHYLETHER

IN EMERGENCY DIAL000 POLICE OR

FIRE BRIGADE

AUSTRALIANCHEMICALS LTD

MELB. (03) 987 6543

SPECIALIST ADVICE

HAZCHEM

UN No.

2PE1039

NSW Rural Fire ServiceTerrorism 1 22

Biological Terrorism Guidelines1 Follow HazMat Guidelines2 DO NOT DISTURB package3 Evacuate area4 Cover package if possible5 Keep hands away from eyes and mouth6 Preserve evidence7 Shut off ventilation8 Dampen down clothing then remove. Remove outer garments. Wash person

with soap and water9 Decontaminate area with 5% bleach and water solution10 Maintain personal hygiene including washing hands

Radioactive Terrorism Guidelines

1 Follow HazMat Guidelines2 Preserve evidence3 Decontaminate with water and contain run off4 Maintain personal hygiene including washing hands

Time

Distance

Shielding

LIMIT

NSW Rural Fire Service 23Terrorism 2

Explosive Devices and Suspicious Packages

1 Follow HazMat Guidelines2 DO NOT TOUCH, TILT or TAMPER3 Beware of secondary devices4 Preserve evidence5 Maintain personal hygiene including washing hands

Distance

Shielding&

Chemical Terrorism Guidelines1 Follow HazMat Guidelines2 Shut off ventilation3 Consider use of water spray to knockdown agents

and contain run off4 Preserve evidence5 Remove clothing except underwear6 Decontaminate with water and contain run off7 Maintain personal hygiene including washing hands

NSW Rural Fire ServiceElectricity 1 24

Electricity 1Potential hazards:Approach Electricity Authority to attend

240 volt and over may arc from one wire to another or to ground11,000 volt and over may arc to groundLook out for electrical hazards, wires may fall, point themout to your crewTell your crew what precautions to takeIdentify both ends and beware of recoilNote: both ends may be “live” or wires may become live at any time by remote switching gearDo not park under wiresWait until Electricity Authority has declared and shown to be “SAFE”

Bush fire Poles or cross arms burnt and fallen wiresFallen wires can energise metal or wire fencingConduction through hose streamsHigh voltage power transmission may arc to groundthrough smoke and fire

Structure fires Service to or within the buildingConduction through ladder (eg. whilst carry ladder)Note: power (light) may be left on for evacuation of a building

MVA Fallen wires due to pole impactWires dislodged off insulators and touching crossarm or polemay make pole live. Note: vehicle may be electrifiedImpact and damage to object powered by electricity Note: vehicle may be electrifiedWires on vehicle – occupants may be able to drive clear if not have them remain in the vehicle until power isolatedIf vehicle is on fire – occupants may, as a last resort, jumpclear without touching the vehicle and hop until well clear

NSW Rural Fire Service 25Electricity 2

Electricity 2 Potential hazards:

Storm Damage Damaged poles or cross arms and fallen wiresLow clearanceTrees, branches or building debris bringing down wiresTrees or branches in contact with wires

Sub Station Call any intruder to fence or to sit and remain where they DO NOT ENTER are – clearance minimum 4m from equipment or wires

NO-GO-ZONE – for up to 200,000 voltsUse clean water onlyStand on dry groundKeep clear of run off water

Nozzle Size Pressure Minimum Disance from Conductor

25mm 700 kPa 21.5 metres



Diffuser (hollow jet) 700 kPa 9.0 metres

Diffuser (30o spray) 700 kPa 8.0 metres


Electricity 3Pole Top Fires Pole or wires may fall

Stand minimum 8m clear to one sideStand uphill from any wet groundUse approved nozzle onlyBroken stream with water falling onto fire

NO-GO-ZONE

NO-GO-ZONE refer to table in Electricity 2 (page 25)


Electricity 4

HIGH VOLTAGE – 3 lines11.000 Volt (may also beup to 132.000 Volt)

6350 v6350 v

6350 v

Neutral240 v

240 v 240 v

LOW VOLTAGE – 4 lines

TELCO – 1 lineFibre optic cable for tvand or telephone To commercial or domestic premises

Single Phase 240 vThree Phase 415 v

Note: The neutral wire may be either side


Electricity 5

6250v5500v

2750v

NO-GO-ZONE – WITHIN 8 METRES OF CONDUCTOR

6350v

Step Potential When electricity is released into the ground, it will“fan” out from the point of contact and voltage willdrop over distance.Avoid the danger of step potential, go no closer than8m from where the conductor touches the ground.

Step PotentialThis man would receive 6350v – 5500v = 850 volts

x y

�


Electricity 6Transmission NO-GO-ZONE for vehicles and personnel if fire or smokeLines within 25 metres of outer wire

Flame and smoke may cause arc from one wire to another or to groundKeep hose stream below head heightHigh trees in easement are a hazardReview strategy if within 25 metres

– x – x – x – x – x – x – x – x – x – x – x – x – x

– x – x – x – x – x – x – x – x – x – x – x – x – x

3 TransmissionPower

Lines each side

Rigging Lines

25m

Wind Direction

ProposedControl Line

NO-GO-ZONE

NSW Rural Fire ServiceFirst Aid 1 30

First Aid 1D Danger Assess situation for danger, ensure scene is

safe for you, your crew, casualty, and others

R Response Assess level of consciousness, can you hear me, if notresponding put in recovery position, call for Ambulance

A Airway Clear the airway, open the airway (Tilt head back and lift jaw except for baby), remove any obstructions

B Breathing Check for breathing, look, listen and feel, if notbreathing, 2 effective breaths to casualty

C Circulation Check for a pulse. If pulse, continue EAR, if no pulse commence CPR, continue until pulse and respiration return, check pulse each 2 mins. Put unconscious casualty in the recovery position. Lookfor and control bleeding. Check for burns and breaks.Don’t remove clothingDon’t give an unconscious casualty food or water

E EvacuationEAR Expired 15 breaths per minute 12– Adult

Air 20 small breaths per minute 1 – 12Resuscitation 20 puffs per minute Baby

CPR 1 operator 15 compressions/2 breathsCardio or 2 operators– 4 cycles per minute 12– Adult 2 Hands

– 6 cycles per minute 1 – 12 1 Hand

1 operator 5 compressions to 1 breath– 1 cycle each 3 secs Baby 2 Fingers

PulmonaryResuscitation

NSW Rural Fire Service 31First Aid 2

First Aid 2Recovery Roll casualty – Extend casualty’s left arm 90 degreesPosition on side – Place casualty’s right hand on left shoulder(see page 34) – Bend casualty’s right knee up

– Kneel at casualty’s right side, grasp right knee and shoulder and roll onto left side

– Ensure airways free from blockages

Heart Constant dull heavy crushing – DRABCEAttack chest pain, pain may radiate – Call for Ambulance

Bm, along left arm to ring finger or – Reassureup neck and jaw, pale or grey – If conscious – semi-sittingpalour, dizziness, nausea, sweaty positionor short of breath – If unconscious – recovery

position

Stroke Loss of muscle control to one – DRABCEhalf of body, facial droop, – Call for Ambulanceloss of balance, slurred mumbled – Reassureand distorted speech, very bad – If conscious – semi-sittingheadache,unequal or positionunresponsive pupils, flushed face – If unconscious – recovery positionanxiety, shock, may lead to seizure – Loosen tight clothing

Heat Stress Headache, drowsiness, fatigue, – Move to a cool placenausea, urine dark yellow, – Loosen clothingmuscle cramps – Drink plenty of waterNote: Normal body temp. 37oC

Heat Tiredness, hot, sweating, – Stop workExhaustion dizziness, nausea, lack of – Move to a cool place

coordination, collapse, shock, – Remove non essential clothing38oC – 40oC – Rest

– Drink water until urine output increases

– Wet down skin


First Aid 3Heat Stroke Very hot (dangerously high – DRABCE

temperature), red, dry skin, – Call for Ambulance/Medivac rapid pounding pulse, dizziness, move casualty to meetnausea, headache, confused, ambulanceirritable, 40-42oC, may lead – Reassureto seizure – Cold compress to neck,

armpits and groin– Cover with wet sheet– Continue to cool

Burns Red, swollen skin, blisters, pain, – DRABCEclear yellow fluid, damaged or – Call for Ambulancemissing skin – Medivac for burnt airway or

Don’t break blisters or serious burnremove skin – ReassureDon’t use ointments – Cool with running water for or antiseptics 10 mins (use helmet to catch Don’t remove dirt, particles water and reuse if in short supply)or clothing from the burn – Remove loose clothing or

jewellery from affected limb – Cover with loose sterile dressing

Shock Pale, cold clammy skin, rapid – DRABCEweak pulse, rapid shallow – Reassure casualtybreathing, nausea, vomiting, – Lay down – legs raised agitated, thirsty (unless fractured)

– Loosen tight clothing– Keep warm

NSW Rural Fire Service 33First Aid 4

First Aid 4Severe Evident, shock, decreasing level – DRABCEBleeding of consciousness, may lead to – Call for Ambulance/Medivac

seizure – Reassure– Apply direct pressure– Apply dressing– Immobilise and raise limb– If bleeding continues apply

further dressings

Fractures Pain, swelling, deformity, loss of – DRABCEfunction, possible shortening – Call for Ambulanceof limb, limb may be at an angle – Immobilise limbor rotated, shock – Patient in comfortable position

– Padding around any splintDon’t straighten fractured limb – Check bandaging tightness

– Check circulation in limb

Severed Don’t clean severed, cut or – DRABCEParts body part – Call for Ambulance

Attend to casualty first – Reassure– Control bleeding of casualty– Place part in plastic bag and seal– Keep bag as cool as possible

in iced water

Snake and Puncture marks, pain, swelling, – DRABCEFunnel Web headache, dizziness, muscle – Call for Ambulance/MedivacSpider Bite weakness, difficulty breathing, – Reassure

shock, may lead to seizure – Lay down on back or in Do attempt identification comfortable positionDon’t wash wound – Pressure/immobilisation

bandage over entire limb


First Aid 5Red Back, Sharp sting, burning pain, – DRABCE

der other spiders, stinger may be on skin – Call for Ambulance if requiredscorpion, – Rest and reassurecentipede, – Cold compress over bite area ant, wasp (e.g. ice in bag)or bee

Seizure Loss of consciousness, rigidity, – Call for Ambulancespasmodic muscle contraction, – Remove surrounding itemstongue biting, urine incontinence – Cushion head

Don’t restrain casualty – After seizure maintain airway– Place in recovery position– Rest and reassure

1. 2.

3. 4.

Recovery or stable side position

NSW Rural Fire Service 35Fire Investigation & Scene Preservation

To assist with the investigation of fires, crews need to protect the area ofOrigin and forward all information to the District/Team/Zone Manager.

A formal investigation is required for:death or serious injury to a firefighter or member of the publicsignificant damage or destruction to an appliance, property, stock, etc.deliberate ignition if the fire is part of a series or if a suspect is knowna structural fire where the cause can’t be determineddeclaration of a Section 44

En-Route to fire:note smoke colour, columns and weather conditionsobserve and record people and vehicles in the vicinity

On arrival:note smoke and flame colour, size and location of the greatest fire activityprotect objects and evidence related to the cause

Scene preservation:cordon off the area first discovered burning, plus 10 metrestape and restrict access, minimise disturbance to the area

Structural fires:note any external fire source, forced entry, or other evidencenote internal and external doors and windows, open/closed/locked

Motor vehicle fires:note vehicle make and registrationnote doors and windows, open/closed/locked, car stripped/abandonedminimise disturbance, the vehicle may be subject of a major crime

NOTE YOUR OBSERVATIONS IN YOUR NOTEBOOK

Fire Investigation andScene Preservation

NSW Rural Fire ServiceFuel Containers 36

FILLER NECKS AND FILLER CAPS ARECOLOUR-CODED TO MATCH CONTAINERS.

SIGNAL RED ORANGE

LIME GREEN CANARY BLUE BELL

KNOW YOURFUEL CONTAINERS!

NSW Rural Fire Service 37Extinguishers

Class of Fire BA C (E) F

Flammable andcombustible liquids

Ordinarycombustibles (wood,paper, plastics etc.)

Water

Flammable gasesFire involving

energized electricalequipment

Fire involvingcooking oils

and fatsType of Fire

WetChemical

AlcoholResistant

Foam

CarbonDioxide

(C02)

AFF TypeFoam

AB(E)Dry Chemical

Powder

B(E) Dry Chemical

Powder

VapourisingLiquid

(fumes may bedangerous in

confinedspaces)

Indicating Colour Type ofExtinguisher Extinguisher Suitability

NoYesMost suitable

No No No

No No No YesMost suitable

Yes

YesMost suitable for

alcohol firesNo NoYes No

Yes Mostsuitable exceptfor alcohol fires

No NoYes No

Yes YesYes NoYes

Yes YesNo NoYes

No YesYes YesYes

No YesYes NoYes

NSW Rural Fire ServiceFire Status / Bush Fire Classification 38

Fire StatusGoing Any fire spreading on one or more flanks or fronts that

does not have control strategies in place for entire perimeter

Being Controlled Effective strategies are in operation or planned for the entire perimeter

Contained Whole of fire perimeter behind identifiable control lines. Active firemay be located inside perimeter

Patrol The fire is at a stage where firefighting resources are only requiredfor patrol purposes. Major re-ignition is unlikely

Out The fire is at a stage that allows its removal from the list of current fires

CLASS ONE A bush fire under the control of the responsible fire authority, whetheror not incidental/low level assistance is provided by other agencies

CLASS TWO A bush fire which by necessity involves more than one agency and wherethe Bush Fire Management Committee Operational Emergency Executive have appointed a person to take charge of firefighting operations

CLASS THREE A major bush fire where an appointment has been made or is imminentunder provisions of Section 44 of the Rural Fires Act, 1997

Bush Fire Classification

A declaration under s44 of the Rural Fires Act is when the Commissioner takes charge andappoints an Incident Controller when a bush fire has assumed or is likely to assume suchproportions as to be incapable of control or suppression by the local fire fighting authority. It mayalso be declared “pre-emptively” when conditions are conducive to the outbreak of a bush fire

The area declared may be defined as:

one or more Rural Fire Districts

one or more Local Government Areas which would include the Fire District

an area defined by geographical or man made features

NSW Rural Fire Service 39Fire Danger Index and Rating

Intensity Flame(kw/m) Height (m) FDR Forest Fires

0 – 50 0 – 0.5 Fires generally selfextinguishing

50 – 500 0.5 – 1.5 Hand tool lines should hold the fire. Direct attack recommended

500 – 2000 1.5 – 3.0 Fire too intense for direct attack. Parallel attack recommended

2000 – 4000 3.0 – 10.0 Crown fire at upperintensities. Indirect attack recommended

over 4000 over 10.0 Crowning, spotting and majorfire runs likely. Control effortsprobably ineffective. Defensivestrategy recommended

Fuel loads heavier than 12.5 tonnes per hectare may produce more extreme fire behaviour

NSW Rural Fire ServiceAircraft Water Bombing Safety 40

Be alert, watch and listen for low flying aircraft and communicate with theAircraft/Air Attack Supervisor in accordance with the communications plan.

The Air Attack Supervisor will warn ground crews of imminent danger, erraticweather, spot fires and approach of firebombing aircraft.

Provide the Aircraft/Air Attack Supervisor with changed location of groundcrews, flight hazards, wind conditions, unsafe aircraft operation and adverseeffects of aircraft vortex.

Vehicle-AircraftSafety Callsign

Fire Bombing Safety• Monitor your PMR/GRN radio• Listen for your Vehicle-Aircraft Safety Callsign• Await instructions from the Air Attack Supervisor or bombing pilot• Move clear and remain clear of the drop zone until directed otherwise• Move clear of the area on hearing an aircraft activate its siren

If caught in an aircraft dropzone:

• Move away from the fire line• Do not run or panic• Watch out for falling branches or debris• Place hand tools well clear of you• Secure your helmet with your arms to protect your head• Watch your footing, foams and retardants can make the ground slippery• If hit by foam or retardant, wash off with cold water

WARNING: Never allow a situation to develop where the safety of a ground crewis dependent on aircraft/water bombing support. Factors outsideyour control could prevent continuing aircraft support.

NSW Rural Fire Service 41Ground to Air Signals

If radio communication fails use the following emergency aircraft signals:

– Serious injuries

– Require food and water

– All Well

– Indicate direction to proceed

– Am proceeding in this direction

– Unable to proceed

– Probably safe to land

– No

– Yes

– Not understood

When forming signals:use wood, stones or other available materialmake symbols at least 2.5 metres highprovide maximum colour contrastattempt to attract attention by other means

The aircraft will indicate signals have been understood by rockingfrom side to side

Ground to Air Signals

NSW Rural Fire ServiceAircraft Safety 42

On sloping ground always approach or leave on the down slope for maximum rotor clearance.

If blinded by swirling dust or grit, STOP, sitdown and await assistance.

On entering helicopter,fasten and adjust seat beltand leave it fastened untilpilot signals to get out.

DO NOT approach or leave helicopter whenthe engine and rotors are running down orstarting up.

Crouch down as you approach for extra rotor clearance. Helmets must be removed or fastenedsecurely by a chin strap. DO NOT reach up, run or chase after articles that blow away.

Carry tools horizontally below waist level – never upright or on shoulder.

DO NOT approach or leave without thepilot’s knowledge andclearance. Stay in pilot’sfield of vision.

PILOT’S FIELDOF VISION

DANGER AREA

NSW Rural Fire Service 43Tactical Aircraft Callsigns

Tactical Aircraft CallsignsAircraft Type Callsign PrefixLight Helicopter FirebirdMedium/Heavy Helicopter HelitakFixed Wing Bomber BomberFixed Wing Reconnaissance Aircraft FirespotterFixed Wing Remote Sensing Aircraft FirescanNPWS Aircraft ParkairNSW Police Aircraft PolairNSWFB Aircraft Fireair

Each aircraft will also be allocated a number. Eg Helitak 221 and Bomber223. The first numeral of the tactical callsign identifies the state of origin. Eg NSW = 2; Victoria = 3The callsign number will be visible on the fuselage and must be visible toground crewsIn the interests of safety, all users are requested not to reallocate callsignsfor particular incidents

NSW Rural Fire ServiceStandard Helicopter Marshalling Signals 1 44

“Cut Engine/s”Either arm and hand levelwith shoulder, hand across

throat, palm down. Thehand is moved sideways

with the arm remaining bent

“Slow Down”Arms down with palmstowards ground, thenmoved up and down

several times

“Move Back”Arms by sides,

palms facing forward,swept forwards andupwards repeatedly to shoulder height

Standard Helicopter Marshalling Signals 1

“Come To Me –Land Here”

Arms vertically above the head with palms

facing inwards

“Move Forward”Arms a little aside, palms

facing backwards andrepeatedly moved

upwards and backwardsfrom shoulder height

“Stop”Arms repeatedly

crossed above head (the more urgent the

stop, the quicker the movement)

You must be trained and competent in marshalling helicopters. DO NOT complicate a simple aircraft operation

NSW Rural Fire Service 45Standard Helicopter Marshalling Signals 2


“Move Down”Arms extended horizontally

to the side, beckoningdownwards, with palmsturned down. Speed of

movement indicates rate of descent

“Move Left” “Move Right”

“All Clear”Right arm raised at

elbow with thumb erect

“Hover”Arms extended

horizontally sideways

“Move Up”Arms extended horizontally

to the side, beckoningupwards, with palms turned

up. Speed of movementindicates rate of ascent

Appropriate arm extended horizontally sidewaysin direction of movement and other arm moved

in front of body in same direction, in areapeating movement

NSW Rural Fire ServiceStandard Helicopter Marshalling Signals 3 46

“Load Not Released”Right arm held across

chest, palm facing down.Left hand pointing up to

form ‘T’

“Release Load”Left arm extended forwardhorizontally, fist clenched,

right hand making horizontalslicing movement below the

left fist, palm downwards

“Land”Arms crossed and

extended downwards infront of body

“Winch Up”Left arm horizontal in

front of body, fistclenched, right hand with

palm turned upwardsmaking upwards motion

“Winch Down”Left arm horizontal in frontof body, fist clenched, right

hand with palm turneddownwards makingdownwards motion


NSW Rural Fire Service 47Beaufort Scale

Beaufort ScaleBeaufort km/h Land Specification Title Knots

0 Less than 1 Smoke rises vertically Calm 0

1 1 - 5 Smoke drifts slowly Light Air 1 - 3

2 6 - 11 Wind felt on face Light Breeze 4 - 6Leaves rustleFlags flap

3 12 - 19 Leaves and small twigs Gentle Breeze 7 - 10in constant motionFlags extended

4 20 - 29 Raises dust and loose paper Moderate Breeze 11- 16Small branches are moved

5 30 - 39 Small trees begin to sway Fresh Breeze 17 - 21

6 40 - 49 Large branches in motion Strong Breeze 22 - 27Wires whistleUmbrellas used with difficulty

7 50 - 61 Whole trees in motion Near Gale 28 - 33Walking against the wind impeded

8 62 - 74 Twigs break off trees Gale 34 - 40

9 75 - 88 Slight structure damage Strong Gale 41- 47

10 89 - 102 Seldom experienced inland Storm 48 - 55Trees uprootedMuch structural damage

11 103 - 117 Very rare Violent Storm 53 - 63Widespread damage

12 More than 118 Severe & extensive damage Hurricane 64 - 71

NSW Rural Fire ServiceT Card Resource Status and Skills 48

T Card Resource Status

Basic Firefighter (BF)Advanced Firefighter (AF)Village Firefighter (VF)Crew Leader (CL)Group Leader (GL)Senior First Aider (SFA)Rural Fire Driver (RFD)Chain Saw Operator (CSO)Breathing Apparatus Operator (BAO)Remote Area Firefighter (RAF)

Skills

Required (REQ) A particular resource is required or requested by a unitOrganised (ORG) The required resource has been organised or arrangedStandby (SB) The organised resource has been placed on standbyEnroute (E/R) Resource dispatched to an incident that has not yet

checked inAvailable (AVL) Resource at an incident and available at short noticeAllocated (ALC) Resource working at an incidentStood Down (S/D) Resource stood down from the shiftUnserviceable (U/S) Resource at an incident unable to respond for

mechanical, rest or personal reasons

NOTE: The rear of card provides for therecording of each task,location and date timegroup (DTG).

NSW Rural Fire Service 49T Card Single Resource

NSW Rural Fire ServiceT Card Colour Coding 50

T Card Colour Coding Identification

FIRE APPLIANCE AWD 4x2– HEAVY Cat 1 3001L – 4000L Cat 3 3001L – 4000L

Cat 5 4001L + Cat 6 4001L +FIRE APPLIANCE AWD 4x2– MEDIUM Cat 2 1601L – 3000L Cat 4 1601L – 3000LFIRE APPLIANCE AWD 4x2– LIGHT Cat-7 801L – 1600L Cat-8 801L – 1600LFIRE APPLIANCE AWD– MOP UP Cat 9 350L – 800LNOTE: The callsign for Cat 10 and above uses a single word (as noted in brackets)

as the description. i.e. Cat 11 is a PumperURBAN FIRE Pumper PumperAPPLIANCE (AWD Cat 11 1601L+) (4x2 Cat 10 1601L+)BULK WATER Bulk Water (Cat 13)CARRIERVEHICLE Command (Cat 16)

Communication (Cat 19)PERSONNEL Personnel Carrier (Cat 12)TRANSPORTMACHINERY Dozer Grader

AIRCRAFT Helicopter Fixed WingH - Heavy H - HeavyM - Medium M - MediumL - Light L - Light

OTHER

H

M

H

M

L L

MU

NOTE: A distinguishing letter (eg. Alpha, Bravo, etc.) shall be used for all vehicles

NSW Rural Fire Service 51Safe Working on Roads

Safe Working On RoadsEmergency Operational Work on Roads

Fire Wear full PPEMotor Vehicle Beacons activatedAccident (MVA) Sitrep to FireComStorm Damage Police and required combat agencies to be “called”Incident Park to protect crew and scene

Risk and hazard assessmentThen as necessary:– Close or partially close road in one or both directions– Control traffic– Roadside signage– Traffic cones– Observer/s and/or traffic controllers with “Safety Tabard”

��

RURAL FIRESERVICE

Non Emergency Operational Work on RoadsGeneral Wear full PPE and Safety Tabard as required

Risk and hazard assessmentThen as necessary:

Filling from – Beacons activated – Roadside signageHydrants – Traffic cones – Observer/s with Safety TabardMechanical – Beacons/hazard lights activatedBreakdown – Breakdown triangles – Traffic cones

– Notify FireComHazard Reductions – Beacons activated – Roadside signage

– Prepared traffic control plan– Advance media publicity

Hydrant Inspections Refer to Safe Working on Roads SOPsInstallation of Blue Refer to Safe Working on Roads SOPsHydrant Markers

NSW Rural Fire ServiceHand Signals for Guiding Vehicle 1 52

Hand Signals for Guiding Vehicle 1The driver must only take directions from the nominated guideDirections may be given from the front or rear of the vehicleThe guide always faces the driverIf the guide is to the rear of the vehicle the driver uses the mirrorsThe guide must be in the driver’s field of vision at all times whilst the vehicle is in motion.If the guide is not in view OR the driver is unsure of a signal, the driver must STOPDrive at a slow constant speedTurn steering wheel at a slow, constant speed

“Move forward”Both arms raised towards the

vehicle with hands up and palmsaway from the vehicle, handsmoved in a beckoning motion

“Stop”Both arms extended towards thevehicle with hands up and palms

towards the vehicle

“Apply left lock”Right arm (if in front of vehicle):left arm (if behind vehicle). The

guide raises arm extendedhorizontally to the side, level withthe shoulder. The driver turns thesteering wheel in the direction ofthe guide’s raised arm. The driver

continues to turn the steeringwheel at a constant speed until theraised arm is dropped to the side

“Apply right lock”Left arm (if in front of vehicle): rightarm (if behind vehicle). The guide

raises arm extended horizontally tothe side, level with the shoulder. Thedriver turns the steering wheel in thedirection of the guide’s raised arm.Thedriver continues to turn the steeringwheel at a constant speed until theraised arm is dropped to the side

NSW Rural Fire Service 53Hand Signals for Guiding Vehicle 2

“Hold existing lock”Both arms down beside the body.

The driver stops turning the steeringwheel but maintains existing lock

“Move back”Both arms raised towards the vehicle,hands down with palms away from

the vehicle, hands moved in abrushing away, “go away” motion

Hand Signals for Guiding Vehicle 2

NSW Rural Fire ServiceFoam Application 1 54

Foam Application 1

Quenchmaster Fire Fighting Foam Proportioning System Operating Instructions Model CP 500

Class A Foam Up to 1% for Class “A” “Ordinary Combustibles” fires (BFFF) including wood, paper, etc.

Class B foam 3% or 6% for Class “B” “Flammable and Combustible (AFFF) Liquid” fires including oil, petrol, etc. with less than 10%

ethanol content

Class B foam 6% for Class “B” “Flammable and Combustible Liquid” (ATC - Alcohol fires where ethanol or other water miscible fuels Resistant Foam) are involved

Class B foam 6% can also be used at a ratio of up to 1% for Class “A”(AFFF or ATC) “Ordinary Combustibles” fires

NSW Rural Fire Service 55Foam Application 2

Supply Open the cap of the foam container 3/4 to 1 turn (Class “A” or “B”)Start the pump and set pressure 600 – 700kPaOpen nozzle/branch to provide water flowTurn “Foam Valve” (Tank Recirc) to ‘ON’Set the foam selection valve to Class A or Class BSet metering valve to the appropriate ratioMop Up 0.1% to 0.25%Initial Suppression 0.25% to 0.5%Back Burning 0.5% to 0.75%Exposure Protections/Structural Attack 0.75% to 1.0%

Standby Turn “Foam Valve” (Tank Recirc) to ‘OFF’Set metering valve to ‘OFF’Discharge water to clear foam from pump (5 – 10 seconds)Discharge small quantity of water regularly to cool pumpWhen foam required – Turn “Foam Valve” (Tank Recirc) to ‘ON’and reset metering valve to the appropriate ratio

Shutdown Set metering valve to 'OFF' Flush pump and hoses until all foam solution is expelledTurn "Foam Valve" (Tank Recirc) to ‘OFF’Reseal foam container

Foam Application 2

Note: When operating on mains hydrant supply (closed relay pumping), pump inletpressure should provide a reading on the compound gauge at or near “0” but nohigher than +50 kPa (it would be preferable to connect hydrant to tank filler –open relay pumping)

Note: Clean the filter, located in the “Y” strainer in the pressure line to theproportioner, on a regular basis particularly if impurities in water

NSW Rural Fire ServiceHydrant Markers 56

Hydrant Markers

Potable Potable

Recycled Recycled

Potable Recycled

How to identify indicator plates for locating hydrants on potable andrecycled water mains.

Primary Indicator Plates

Primary indicator plates are markedwith two sets of numbers. The topnumber gives the distance (in metres)from the plate to the hydrant and thebottom number gives the size (inmillimetres) of the water main.

Note: H – Hydrant for potable waterRH – Hydrant for recycled water

P – PathwayR – Roadway

Black line on plate indicateshydrant is on opposite side of road

Secondary Indicator PlatesSecondary indicator plates should faceeach direction of approach from whichthe primary plates cannot be seen. Additionally, white or yellow triangles orarrows may be painted on roads, or bluemarkers may be fixed to the roadto one side of the centre line

Static Water Supply indicator plate fixed in a location to be highlyvisible from the road and may include swimming pools, tanks,dams, ponds or creeks.

NSW Rural Fire Service 57Hand Signals

Words of command and common hand signals are given below:

Hand Signals

Water On

Arm raised above headvertically fist clenched.

Increase Pressure

Arm raised above headvertically and dropped to side.

Each signal requirespump pressure to beincreased by 100kpa.

Decrease Pressure

Arm Extendedhorizontally to the sideand dropped to the side.

Each signal requirespump pressure to bereduced by 100kpa.

Water Off

Arm extendedhorizontally to the side andswung acrossthe body.

Make UpEquipment

Both armsextended to the sidehorizontally and held for a few seconds.

Report to me

Left hand placed on helmet and right hand points to crew member

NSW Rural Fire ServiceHoses and Pressures 1 58

Hoses and Pressures 1 (Rough Guide)

Height Loss or Gain

Add 10kPa for each metre the nozzle is above the pump

Subtract 10kPa for each metre the nozzle is below the pump

Friction Loss (rule of thumb adopted by RFS)

Add 100kPa for 30 metre length at typical operating pressure

Optimum Nozzle Pressures

Standard branch with straight nozzle Best at 250kPa12mm diametre or less

Controllable jet/spray nozzles (Dial-a-jet, AWG, etc.) Best at 500kPa

Foam making branch Best at 550kPa

Pistol grip fog nozzles (discharge ranges Best at 700kPafrom 50 - 475 l/min)

Pump Pressure Calculation

Hoses 100 kPa for each length 3x38mm = 300kPa

Pressure required at Nozzle 700kPa

Total 1,000kPa at pump

Tanker Protection System

Optimum pressure to operate Tanker Protection System is 300kPa

Each line of hose to supply water through pump relay should not beexpected to carry more than:

1000 l/min for 65mm hose



NSW Rural Fire Service 59Hoses and Pressures 2

Hoses and Pressures 2 (Rough Guide)Discharge Volumes (Note: Dial-a-jet 3mm to 8mm, 38mm AWG 8mm and 65mm AWG 15mm)

Nozzle Size (mm) Pressure at Nozzle 500kPa Pressure at Nozzle 700kPaDischarge (l/min) Discharge (l/min)

3 12 15

8 86 100

12 170 230

15 335 395

20 556 675

DraughtingPressure at sea level is approximately 100kPa

If a perfect vacuum Maximum practical Maximum practical(10kPa for 1 metre) lift for vehicle pump lift for portable pumpmaximum lift would is 7 metres is 5 metresbe 10 metres

3.0 metres Pump efficiency 70%

5.0 metres Pump efficiency 60%

7.0 metres Pump efficiency 45 – 50%

Volume of Water in a Dam, etc.

Length (m) x width (m) x average depth (m) = cubic metres x 1,000 litres = volume

Volume of Water in a Cylindrical Tank

3.14 x radius2 (m) x height (m) = cubic metres x 1,000 litres = volume

NSW Rural Fire ServiceGrid And Magnetic North 60

Topographic maps contain avariation diagram depicting therelationship between Grid andMagnetic North and notes:

The angle between themThe year when this was correctThe value and the direction ofchange over time (Note: thechange is often in tenths ofdegrees for every 3 years)

Grid and Magnetic North

Converting a bearing from Converting a bearing fromGrid to Magnetic Magnetic to Grid

Grid Bearing 89o – 14o Magnetic Bearing 50o + 14o

= 75o Magnetic Bearing = 64o Grid Bearing

GRIDCONVERGENCE

1.3o

GRID MAGNETICANGLE 10.7o

TN

GN

MN

G GM M

A

AO O

??14o

14o

89o50o

Examples using 14o as variation

Example

NSW Rural Fire Service 61Map Referencing

Six Figure Grid Reference

– Firstly quote the easting reference:two digit figures along the top or bottom of mapone digit for the distance between grid lines, divided into 10 equal parts

– Secondly quote the northing referencetwo digit figures on the sides of mapone digit for the distance between grid lines, divided into 10 equal parts

Example:Allinga Road and Arizona Road intersection 59 4 21 7

Map Referencing

NSW Rural Fire ServiceBush Fire Mapping Symbols 62

RED – FIRE BLACK – CONTROL LINES BLUE – WRITING & SYMBOLS

Strategic or Tactical Command, Control Logistics Assets to beSignificance & Coordination Related Protected

Name Symbol Notes (DTG = Date Time Group)

PREDICTED (fire edge) Show DTG

GOING (fire edge) Show DTG

CONTAINED (fire edge) Show DTG

PROPOSED (control line) Draw on far side of feature

COMPLETED (control line) Show DTG

PROPOSED (backburn) Draw on far side of feature

COMPLETED (backburn) Show DTG

BACKBURN BURNING IN Lines show depth of burn at DTG

FIRE ORIGIN RED Show DTG

FIRE DIRECTION BLUE Show DTG

WIND DIRECTION BLUE Show DTG

SPOT FIRE RED Isolated fire ahead of main fire

BURNT AREA BLACK Burnt Area (if old, show month & year)

AERIAL IGNITION RED Proposed path to be treated

DIVISIONAL BOUNDARY BLUE Use geographical names

SECTOR BOUNDARY BLUE Use alphabetical names

REFUGE AREA BLUE ESCAPE ROUTE (add arrow to show safe exit) BLUE

CONTROL CENTRE BLUE(Incident Management Team location)

DIVISIONAL COMMAND BLUE STAGING AREA (where resources are available) BLUE

SECTOR COMMAND BLUE BASE CAMP BLUE

HELIPAD BLUE AIRBASE (fixed wing and/or helicopter base) BLUE

WATER POINT VEHICLE BLUE WATER POINT HELICOPTER BLUE(Firefighting water supply) (Helicopter water supply)

AMBULANCE LOCATION BLUE ABORIGINAL SITE OR ARTIFACTS BLUE

THREATENED PROPERTY BLUE ENDANGERED FLORA BLUE

HISTORICAL SITE (building or structures) BLUE ENDANGERED FAUNA BLUE

FW

OOOOO

R

CC

DC

SC

WV

AMB

T

HS

E

SA

BC

AIR

WH

A

FL

FA

–x–x–x–x–x–x–x–x–x–x–x–x–x–

+x+x+x+x+x+x+x+x+x+x+x+x+

NSW Rural Fire Service 63Map Marking Guide

NSW Rural Fire ServiceMedia 64

The RFS uses the media to distribute public information duringemergencies and promote the image of the volunteers. The mediais a vital partner in ensuring the media and community are well informed.

A large proportion of media personnel across NSW have been trained by the RFSto work in and around bush fires. Trained media personnel are aware of how theRFS manages bush fires and the associated dangers.

Media are required to wear full PPE and carry an identification card when attendingthe fireground.

Access to the fireground is at the discretion of the Incident Controller, News crewsshould be given all reasonable assistance to accurately inform the community ofincidents of interest.

Media comment may only be made by the Incident Controller in compliancewith Service Standard 1.1.6 Media Relations to ensure accurate informationis provided.

Volunteers must not comment to the media on any issue where those commentsmay be perceived as being the view or position of the Service.

All issues relating to media must be brought to the attention of the District/Team/Zone Manager via the Incident Controller.

If you are asked to comment on political issues regarding the RFS, refer themedia to the FCO/District/Team/Zone Manager via the Incident Controller

If you are asked to comment about the overall strategy for a fire or incident referthe media to the Incident Controller

You may provide general comments on what conditions are like or how you feelat an incident, for example ‘It is extremely hot and the winds are erratic’, ‘It’stiring work and we can't wait for the cool change’ or ‘We are raking a trail downBlue Gum Valley towards Green Creek’.

Media

NSW Rural Fire Service 65Map (State)

Regi

on W

est

Regi

on S

outh

ACT

Regi

on E

ast

Regi

on N

orth

• EDE

N

• BEG

A

• COO

MA

WAG

GA W

AGGA

•

HAY

•• W

ENTW

ORTH

• BRO

KEN

HIL

L

• WIL

CAN

NIA

• MOA

MA

BALR

ANAL

D •

WES

T W

YALO

NG

•

JUN

EE •CO

WRA

•

BLAY

NEY

•

DUBB

O •

WEL

LIN

GTON

•

CON

DOBO

LIN

•

BOUR

KE •

WAL

GETT

•

COON

AMBL

E • GO

ULBU

RN •

YASS

•

• ALB

URY

• GRI

FFIT

H

• BA

TEM

ANS

BAY

NOW

RA ••

KIAM

A• W

OLLO

NGO

NG

• PAR

KES

• NYN

GAN

• COB

AR

• SYD

NEY

• NEL

SON

BAY

• FOR

STER

• TAR

EE

• POR

T M

ACQU

ARIE

• KEM

PSEY

• TAM

WOR

TH

• COF

FS H

ARBO

UR

• GRA

FTON

• GLE

N

IN

NES

• TEN

TERF

IELD• B

YRON

BAY

• TW

EED

HEAD

S

LISM

ORE

•

INVE

RELL

•• M

OREE

• GUN

NED

AH

• GIL

GAN

DRA

GOSF

ORD

•

NEW

CAST

LE •

SIN

GLET

ON •

NSW Rural Fire ServiceIncident Control System 1 66

Incident ControlOperationsPlanningLogistics

Incident Control System 1SMALL INCIDENT (up to 5 appliances – 20 personnel)

All functions carried out byone officer at the incident

Incident ControlPlanningLogistics

Sector Sector

MEDIUM INCIDENT (5 to 10 appliances – 40 personnel)These functions carried out by one officerlocated close to the incident liaising withother agencies (Police, NSWFB,Ambulance, Elecricity Authority, etc.)

Operations role delegated to a second officer at the incident

Operations

Incident Control

Sector Sector

LARGE INCIDENT (10 to 20 appliances – 100 personnel)

These functions carried out by threeofficers located at the Incident ControlCentre liaising with other agencies. TheOperations Officer may be at the incident

Sector Commanders at the incident

Operations Planning Logistics

NSW Rural Fire Service 67Incident Control System 2

Incident Controller

VERY LARGE INCIDENT

Deputy IC

OperationsOfficer

SafetyAdvisor

MediaLiaisonOfficer

PlanningOfficer

ManagementSupportOfficer

LogisticsOfficer

Deputy IC

DivisionalCommander

SectorCommander

Air OperationsManager

Aircraft OfficerAir AttackSupervisor

Air/Heli BaseManager

Air Observer

OperationsCommunications

CommunityLiaison Officer

SituationMapping

ResourcesInformation

SupportSupply

Ground SupportLogistics

CommunicationsStaging AreaCoordinator

Basecamp Coordinator

ServicesFacilitiesCateringMedicalFinance

Accommodation

Incident Control System 2 (continued)

NSW Rural Fire ServiceIncident Control System 3 68

SA

Divisions – use geographical namesSectors – use alphabetical names

Staging Area

South DivisionAir OperationsNorth Division

SectorA

SectorB

SectorC

SectorD

SectorE

SectorF

Operations Officer Planning Officer Logistics Officer

INCIDENT MANAGEMENT TEAM

Incident Controller

NSW Rural Fire Service 69State Assistance

STRIKE TEAM Five fire fighting appliances that have an established minimumnumber of personnel. Strike teams always have a leader in aseparate vehicle and a common communication system.

STRIKE TEAM Located in the field and responsible for five appliances.LEADER The Strike Team Leader is NOT the Sector Commander

but is there purely to ensure Strike Team is tasked andis responsible for their welfare and reports to theResponse Team Coordinator.

TASK FORCE A combination of units or equipment assembled for a specific task,ie. bulk water carriers or heavy plant. Task forces always have aleader in a separate vehicle and a common communication system.

TASK FORCE Located in the field and responsible for the units or equipment.LEADER The Task Force Leader is there purely to lead the Task Force,

be responsible for their welfare and reports to the ResponseTeam Coordinator.

RESPONSE A Response Team is one of more Strike Teams and/or TEAM Task Forces.

RESPONSE Located in the Incident Control Centre as part of theTEAM Incident Management Team and responsible for up toCOORDINATOR five Strike Teams/Task Forces. Must ensure that they

are suitably tasked and is responsible for their welfare.

��

STRIKETEAM LEADER

��

RESPONSE TEAMCO-ORDINATOR

single resource T Cardssufficient non-perishablecrew field rations for 24 hourssufficient crew drinkingwater for 24 hours an esky

full bush fire fightingpersonal protectiveequipment (PPE)drink bottleauthority card

wet weather gearmedication & sunscreensleeping bag or swagcasual clothespersonal requirements

Each crew member should have:Each appliance should have:

State Assistance

NSW Rural Fire ServiceConvoy Driving 70

Convoy DrivingTask Force Co-ordinator or Strike Team Leader to brief drivers

Strike team of 5 appliances plus Strike Team Leader

Briefing Departure timeDestinationEstimated time of arrivalRouteStopping points and length of stops

Driver changeoverMealsFuel

Order of vehiclesStick to that orderCommunication channelUse of lights and sirens

Spacing of vehicles Minimum 200m – maximum 500m on open roadMinimum 50m in built up or urban areasMinimum 5km between strike teams

NSW Rural Fire Service 71Phonetic Alphabet / Map Scales

SC

ALE

1:2

5 0

00

1:5

0 0

00

00

0.51

12

1.53

24

km

km

AlphaBravoCharlieDeltaEchoFoxtrotGolfHotelIndiaJulietKiloLimaMike

NovemberOscarPapaQuebecRomeoSierraTangoUniformVictorWhiskeyX-RayYankeeZulu

SC

ALE

1:1

00 0

00

1:1

01

23

45

67

8km

01

23

45

67

8cm Phonetic Alphabet

NSW Rural Fire ServiceCommunications Colour Codes 72

Communications Colour Codes

KNOW YOURRADIOCOMMUNICATIONSPRIORITY CODE!

Unit or crew in life threatening danger

Urgent assistance needed but the unit or crew not in danger

Operational incident related call

General non-incident related call

LIFE THREATENING SITUATION

URGENT FIRE MESSAGE

GENERAL FIRE MESSAGE

LOGISTIC OTHER MESSAGE

PROWORDS THAT DETERMINETHE PRIORITY OF MESSAGES

Affirmative Yes/correctAll stations General call to all stations on a networkCancel Ignore my previous instruction or requestClear End of my transmission, no reply expectedClear to you End of transmission to you, will now transmit to another unitConfirm Verify this statementCopied Message received and understoodCorrection Incorrect message, the correct message is…Disregard Ignore my previous statement or informationETA Estimated time of arrivalETD Estimated time of departureIncident call Report of a new incidentGo ahead Permission to transmit or replyGrid Map grid references to followI say again Repeating my last transmissionNegative No/incorrect/permission not grantedNothing heard No reply to transmission receivedOver Transmission is over, a reply may be transmittedRead back I repeat all or part to confirm your last message OR you

repeat back the key points of the last message I sent youRoger Message received and understoodSay again Repeat all or part of your last transmission to meSitRep Situation report to be transmittedStand by I must pause, will transmit when readyUnderstood Message understood

NSW Rural Fire Service 73Communications Definitions

Communications Definitions

NSW Rural Fire ServiceCommunications Networks 74

Government Radio Network (GRN) [UHF]Trunked radio network. Generally used for Command and ControlYou can communicate if in range of any GRN repeater within the “network”Channels 158 – 165 can be allocated by State OperationsState Operations 166 Region Channels 167 – 174 District Channels 175 – 214

Private Mobile Radio (PMR) [UHF]Local radio repeater networkYou can communicate if in range of the repeaterRepeater Channels 1 – 8 for emergency fireground useChannels 18 – 116 + 218 – 224

Strategic Network (STRAT NET) [UHF]PMR to provide a point to point network between State Operations, Regional Officesand all Fire Control Centres around the State.Generally used for communications between Senior CommandersChannels 117 – 146

Simplex Channels (Car to Car) [UHF]Short range line of sight communication between unitsRFS Channels 9 – 12 Other Agency Liaison Channels 13 – 17 (see next page)

Liaison Channels [UHF]For communications between NSW RFS, NSWFB, NSW SES, NSW Ambulance.Liaison Channels 147 – 156 can be allocated by State Operations

Fireground Radios [VHF]Repeater Channels 1 – 4 for emergency fireground useFireground Channels 1 – 20 allocated by local arrangementNOTE: Fireground Channels 10 – 20 within Region East are allocated to specific Districts

CB Radios [UHF]Community radio controlled by convention rather than legislation and is a non-secure and non controlled network

Communication with AircraftCommunication with an individual aircraft or an Air Attack Supervisor where multipleaircraft, when approved by the Incident Controller may be on the PMR or GRNlocal network. See also page 43

Communications Networks

NSW Rural Fire Service 75Agency Liaison Channels

Agency Liaison ChannelsNSW RFS NSWFB NSW SES NSW AmbulanceSIMPLEX SIMPLEX SIMPLEX SIMPLEX

(Z1) 13 SIMP (Z13) GRN (S) 211-SIMP- (Z6) 11 GRN S1SHR 1 SMPX 1 SHR-1





Remember: other agencies may be using channels. Range can be up to 20km

NSW Rural Fire ServiceService Vehicle Involved In An Accident 1 76

Service Vehicle Involved In An Accident 1Stop, assess damage, any injuries and provide first aid if requiredNotify FireCom, Police and other emergency services to be called if requiredAccident with minor damage Driver is to remain at accident scene only and no injuries to exchange particulars – Vehicle

and crew may continue response with another driver if initial emergency call was for a potential life threatening situationFireCom to arrange transport for driver

Accident with substantial Driver, crew and vehicle to remain atdamage or any injury accident scene – another vehicle to berequiring treatment by responded to initial emergency calla health professional

NSW Rural Fire Service 77Service Vehicle Involved In An Accident 2

Service Vehicle Involved In An Accident 2 (checklist)Record the following:Date and time of accidentLocation of accidentDate, time and details of the incident to which respondedResponding – Lights? Siren?

RFS Vehicle Other Vehicle/s & Crew and Passengers

Driver’s name, address & licence No.Officer in Charge – name and rankCrew /passengers and namesInjuries sustained, names and detailsInjured to which HospitalVehicle make, type, year, registration number & roadworthinessInsurance companyExtent of damage to vehicleApproximate speed of vehicle/sWere seatbelts being worn?Road and weather conditionsPolice, Ambulance, Rescue, CSI or Accident Investigation in attendanceCISS or Chaplaincy requiredWitnesses’ names and addressesReport to Police

NSW Rural Fire ServiceCritical Incident Support Services 78

The role of CISS is to provide support to all members, asindividuals or as a group, of the NSW Rural Fire Service,including Volunteers and Staff who may be experiencing acritical incident stress reaction following an operational incident.

Members are affected in different ways by incidents and it is the reaction ofthe individual, which makes the incident critical.

Support and assistance, 24 hours a day, may be:

On-scene during protracted incidents

Less formal defusing soon after the incident

Debriefing one to seven days after the incident

Facilitate ongoing support as required

In person or by telephone

Total confidentiality is maintained and no information regarding name,personal reactions, feelings, problems or behaviour will be recorded ordisclosed unless requested by that member.

Contact Procedures

The CISS Duty Officer, who is supported by more than 40 specially trainedVolunteers and Staff, may be contacted through State Operations on:

1800 049 933

Critical Incident Support Services (CISS)

CISS

NSW Rural Fire Service 79Chaplaincy

The role of the Chaplain is to minister to the spiritualwelfare (irrespective of religion or denominational affiliation)of all members of the NSW Rural Fire Service, includingVolunteers and Staff and their families and includes the provision of moraleand welfare support for:

The death of any member of the Service in the line of Duty

Serious injury and hospitalisation of any member whilst on Duty

Death of any member or member’s next of kin

A member or a member’s next of kin transferred to Sydney for hospitalisation,or to any major Regional hospital within NSW or the ACT

Members at an incident involving fatalities at the Senior Officer request

Members at any protracted search and rescue operation involving Rural FireService Personnel

Members at extended operations, during s44 bush fire or other emergenciesat the request of State Operations, the Region or the Incident Controller

Members at any other incident where Senior Operations Staff require theattendance of the Chaplain

Contact Procedures

The Senior Chaplain, Captain Ron Anderson, whois supported by more than 50 Volunteer Chaplains,may be contacted through State Operations on:

1800 049 933

Chaplaincy

��

CHAPLAIN

NSW Rural Fire ServiceBush Fire Definitions 1 80

Bush Fire Definitions 1Fireground Area affected or likely to be affected by fire

Strategies A statement detailing how an objective is to beachieved, determined by the Incident Controller

Tactic Tasking of personnel and resources to implement theincident strategies. On larger fires normally determinedat division or sector level

Ground Fire A slow burning fire, burning underground in fuels such as peat or humus

Surface Fire A fire that travels above the surface in grass, low scrub,leaves and litter

Crown Fire A fire, usually fast moving, burning in the crowns of thetrees and supported by fire below in the ground fuel

Spot Fire Isolated fire started ahead of the main fire by sparks, embers or other ignited material, sometimes a distanceof several kilometres

Direct A method of suppression where wet or dry firefighting Attack techniques are used right on the fire edge. The fire edge

then becomes the containment line

Parallel A method of suppression in which the fireline is Attack constructed approximately parallel to and just far enough

away from the fire edge (heat and smoke) to enable firefighters and equipment to work effectively and safely

Indirect A method of suppression where backburning is used Attack within an area defined by prepared control lines,

generally existing, which may be a considerabledistance ahead of the fire

NSW Rural Fire Service 81Bush Fire Definitions 2

Bush Fire Definitions 2Backburning Firefighting strategy, as part of an overall plan. A fire

started intentionally along the inner edge of a fireline toconsume the fuel in the path of a bush fire, either in aparallel attack or an indirect attack to widen an existingcontainment line

Hazard Removal of combustible fuels by hand clearing, Reduction machine clearing or prescribed burning

Prescribed The controlled application of fire under specified Burning/Burn Off environmental conditions to a predetermined area and at

the time, intensity and rate of spread required to attainplanned prescription

NSW Rural Fire ServiceParts of a Bush Fire 82

Within the perimeter there may be burning areas, smouldering areas andblackened areas as well as pockets of unburnt fuel. The point of origin mayreadily be identified or it may require fire investigation to determine the location.

Parts of a Bush Fire

Rear of HeelPoint of origin

Unburnt pocket or island

Flanks/sides

Finger

FingerSpot Fire

Finger

Flanks/sides

NSW Rural Fire Service 83Grassland Curing Guide

Cured % Colour Physiological changes

0 Green From germination to start of seedhead development

20-30 Greenish-yellow Seed head maturing and opening from top

40 Yellow-green

60 Straw. Odd patch Seed dropped, half to one third of of green or most stems green. Some paddocks yellow-green fully cured, others green

80 Straw. Very little Some greenness in lower third of green showing stalks. Many stalks fully curedanywhere

90 Straw. Odd stalks may show Odd green gully some greenness

100 Bleached All stalks fully cured, seed heads and stalks starting to break easily

Grassland Curing Guide

NSW Rural Fire ServiceFuel Moisture Content 84

The Single Leaf TestSheltered from any wind, light the end of a dead leaf and once lit, take theignition source away. The aim is to discover the angle at which a small flameneither goes out nor flares up.

Fuel Moisture Content

WETLeaf burns only if straight down or doesn’t burn at allAll fuels in area too wet to be burnt

MOISTLeaf burns if angled downwards but not if levelFine fuels from area will only burn if on slope or in wind

BORDERLINELeaf burns if level but not angled upwardsFine fuels from this position will burn very slowly unlesshelped by wind, slope and fuel continuity

DRYLeaf can be angled upwards and still burn Fine fuels from area are dry enough to burn

TOO DRYLeaf burns if held straight upAll fine fuels very dry and flammable, fire will run upstringybark trees. Spotting likely, especially if windy

NSW Rural Fire Service 85Assessing Fuel Loads

The knee-waist-shoulder method

Fine fuels occur mostly as litter on the ground or standing scrub. To assess finefuel load, find a typical site and estimate the percentage cover of litter andscrub in a 2 metre radius:

1. Estimate ground litter fuels

Estimate litter cover in %

Estimate litter depth in cm

Every 10% of cover x 2cm litter depth = 1 tonne/ha

Example: 90% litter (10% bare) x 4cmlitter depth = 18 tonnes/ha

2. Estimate scrub fuels

Divide scrub intolayers of 0.5m

Estimate % of coverfor each layer

Every 20% of coverper layer = 1 tonne/ha

3. Calculate total fine fuels

Total fire fuels = ground litter + all 3 scrub layers

Assessing Fine Fuel Load

Every 20%coverage =1 tonne/ha

WAIST1m

KNEE0.5m



}}}

2m2m

SHOULDER1.5m

NSW Rural Fire ServiceEstimating Degree of Slope 86

Estimating Degree Of Slope45o 1 in 1

30o 1 in 2

20o 1 in 3

10o 1 in 6

5o 1 in 103o 1 in 200o 0 in 0

Degrees(approx) Gradient Description

45 1 in 1 Very SteepA dangerous slope

30 1 in 2 Steep Difficult to climb

20 1 in 3 SteepSteepest of roads

Degrees(approx) Gradient Description

10 1 in 6 Moderate/SteepToo steep to cycle

5 1 in 10 ModerateCycling difficult

3 1 in 20 Gradual0 0 in 0 Level

NSW Rural Fire Service 87Construction Rates

For Handcrews Construction rates will depend on:Size, experience and fitness of crewEnvironmental conditions such as weatherNature of the fuelsGround and terrain

For Machines Construction rates will depend on:Type and power of machineExperience of operatorNature of the fuels including size and density of standing treesGround and terrain

Note: grader in grassland with 0-15o slope 2000-6000m/hourObserve a safety distance for personnel of 30 metres or more

Time Construction RatesWorked Efficiency 12 tonnes per ha 20 tonnes per ha(hours) (m/hour) (m/hour)1-2 100% 250 1003 97% 240 975 69% 170 698 40% 100 4010 33% 82 33

Construction Rates (in areas with no rocks or hazards)Bulldozer 12 tonnes per ha 20 tonnes per ha

(m/hour) (m/hour)Slope 0o-10o 10o-20o 20o-30o 0o-10o 10o-20o 20o-30o

D4 800 600 300 450 350 200D6 850 700 400 500 400 250D7 900 800 600 700 550 400D8 1000 900 750 850 750 650

Construction Rates

NSW Rural Fire ServiceNSW Fire Areas Map 88

NSW

Fir

e A

reas

NSW Rural Fire Service 89NSW Fire Areas

1.Fa

r Nor

th C

oast

Balli

naBy

ron

Clar

ence

Val

ley

Kyog

leLi

smor

eRi

chm

ond

Valle

yTw

eed

2.N

orth

Coa

stBe

lling

enCo

ffs H

arbo

urGl

ouce

ster

Grea

t Lak

esGr

eate

r Tar

eeHa

stin

gsKe

mps

eyN

ambu

cca

3.G

reat

er H

unte

rCe

ssno

ckDu

ngog

Lake

Mac

quar

ieM

aitla

ndM

usw

ellb

rook

New

cast

le

Port

Step

hens

Sing

leto

nUp

per H

unte

r

4.G

reat

er S

ydne

yRe

gion

All S

ydne

yM

etro

polit

an C

ounc

ilsPl

us G

osfo

rd, B

lue

Mou

ntai

ns,

Haw

kesb

ury

and

Wyo

ng5.

Illaw

arra

/Sho

alha

ven

Kiam

aSh

ellh

arbo

urSh

oalh

aven

Win

geca

rribe

eW

ollo

ndill

yW

ollo

ngon

g6.

Far S

outh

Coa

stBe

ga V

alle

yEu

robo

dalla

7.M

onar

o/A

lpin

eBo

mba

laCo

oma

Man

aro

Snow

y Ri

ver

8.A

CTAu

stra

lian

Capi

tal

Terri

tory

9.So

uthe

rn R

ange

sGr

eate

r Arg

yle

Grea

ter Q

uean

beya

n City

Pale

rang

Uppe

r Lac

hlan

Yass

Val

ley

10.C

entr

al R

ange

sBa

thur

st R

egio

nal

Blay

ney

Cabo

nne

Cow

raLi

thgo

w C

ityM

id W

este

rn R

egio

nal

Ober

onOr

ange

Wel

lingt

on11

.New

Eng

land

Arm

idal

e Du

mar

esq

Glen

Inne

s/Se

vern

Guyr

aTe

nter

field

Ural

laW

alch

a12

.Nor

ther

n Sl

opes

Gunn

edah

Gwyd

irIn

vere

llLi

verp

ool P

lain

sTa

mw

orth

Reg

iona

l13

.Nor

th W

este

rnM

oree

Pla

ins

Nar

rabr

iW

alge

ttW

arum

bung

les

14.U

pper

Cen

tral

Wes

t Pla

ins

Boga

nCo

onam

ble

Gilg

andr

aW

arre

n15

.Low

er C

entr

alW

est P

lain

sBl

and

Dubb

oFo

rbes

Lach

lan

Nar

rom

ine

Park

esTe

mor

aW

eddi

n16

.Sou

ther

n Sl

opes

Boor

owa

Coot

amun

dra

Gund

agai

Hard

enTu

mba

rum

baTu

mut

Youn

g17

.Eas

tern

Riv

erin

aAl

bury

City

Cool

amon

Grea

ter H

ume

June

eLo

ckha

rtW

agga

Wag

ga

18.S

outh

ern

Rive

rina

Berri

gan

Cona

rgo

Coro

wa

Deni

liqui

nJe

rilde

rieM

urra

yUr

ana

Wak

ool

19.N

orth

ern

Rive

rina

Carra

thoo

lGr

iffith

Hay

Leet

onM

urru

mbi

dgee

Nar

rand

era

20.S

outh

Wes

tern

Ba

lrana

ldW

entw

orth

21.F

ar W

este

rnBo

urke

Brew

arrin

aBr

oken

Hill

Cent

ral D

arlin

gCo

bar

Unic

orpo

rate

d N

SW

NSW

Fire

Are

as S

how

ing

Loca

l Gov

ernm

ent A

reas

NSW Rural Fire ServiceWeather 1 90

Weather 1High Pressure SystemHigh pressure systems provide dry, warm weather with the possibility of a lead up tocritical fire weather. Winds circulate anti-clockwise.

Isobars showing a ridge or wedge of high pressure

Low Pressure SystemWinds circulate clockwise

Isobars and winds of a typical low

NSW Rural Fire Service 91Weather 2

Weather 2Wind Strength

Wind strength according to pressure gradient

Frontal SystemWhen one air mass moves into an area occupied by another, the two do not mixsubstantially unless their temperature and moisture are similar. A boundary zoneknown as a front forms between the two.

NSW Rural Fire ServiceOrganisational Chart 92

Administration& Finance

CommunitySafety

Commissioner

Operations &Regional

Management

OperationsPolicy &

Standards

OperationsSupport

StrategicDevelopment

Commissioner’sOffice

CorporateCommunications

Aviation

OperationalCommunications

OperationalPlanning &

Development

Region East

Region North

Region South

Region West

EngineeringServices

Learning &Development

Systems

Health,Safety &Welfare

InformationServices

CorporatePlanning &

Performance

StrategicProject Office

StrategicPolicy &

Standards

Staff Services

AdministrativeServices

FinancialServices

CommunityHazards

Management

BusinessDevelopment

NaturalEnvironment

DevelopmentControl

CommunityEducation

RiskManagementPerformance

Media & PublicAffairs

FireInvestigation

MinisterialLiaison

VolunteerRelations

ExecutiveCommittees

ChaplaincyServices

NSW Rural Fire Service 93Operations Chart

Commissioner

Executive Director, Operations and Regional Management, Assistant Commissioner

Director Regional Management

Regions (Managers – Chief Superintendents)

State Operations(Managers – Chief Superintendents)

District/Team/Zone Manager – Superintendent

Inspector

Group Captain

Deputy Group Captain

Brigades

Captain

Senior Deputy Captain

Deputy Captain

Brigade Member

Operations,Policy &

StandardsAviation

OperationalPlanning &

Development

OperationalComms East North South West

OperationsOfficer –Inspector

CommunitySafetyOfficer

BusinessOfficer


Officer

OperationsSupport

FireInvestigation

Officer


Support

NSW Rural Fire ServiceCombat Agency Functions 94

State Emergency and Rescue Management Act, 1989

The State Emergency and Rescue Management Act sets out the State arrangementsfor Emergency Management and Rescue Management. Under the provisions ofthe SERM Act, the State recognises three levels of management, which areState, District and Local Levels. All three levels are required to prepare andmaintain a Disaster Plan (Displan) for the Prevention, Preparation, Response andRecovery of emergency events. The arrangements outlined within these planscan be used to support Combat Agency Operations or Emergencies.

Local Level (by Local Government Areas)

LEMC Local Emergency Management Committee chaired by a LocalGovernment Representative

LEOC Local Emergency Operations Centre

LEOCON Local Emergency Operations Controller – Senior member ofthe NSW Police Service in the Local Government Area

LEMO Local Emergency Management Officer – Executive Supportprovided by the Council

Local Displan Prepared for each Local Government Area and also includesEvacuation and Road Closure sub-plans

Note: The RFS is the combat agency for rural fires (Class 1, 2 or 3) and under theSERM Act, assistance from other combat agencies and support agenciesmay be requested and provided.

Combat Agency Functions

NSW Rural Fire Service 95Combat Agencies

Police

Combat Agencies

NSW Agriculture

EPA, MSB Port Authority

Mines Rescue

Ambulance Service of NSW

Volunteer Rescue Association

Rural Fire Service

State Emergency Service

NSW Fire Brigades

Combat agency for all aviation accidents Responsible for all rescuesProvide accredited rescue units in defined local areasSupport other combat agencies when requestedProvide SEOCON, DEOCON & LEOCON under SERM Act

Combat Agency for urban fires (in the Fire District) and HazMats (State wide)Provide accredited rescue units in defined local areas

Combat Agency for floods, storms and tempestProvide accredited rescue units in definedlocal areas

Combat Agency for rural fires (in the RuralFire District and declarations under s44)Provide accredited rescue units in defined local areas

Provide medical treatment and transportationProvide accredited rescue units in defined local areas

Provide rescue services at designated minesResponsible for clean up operations withintheir area of responsibility

Combat Agency for exotic animal and plant diseases

NSW Rural Fire ServiceEpaulettes 1 96

��

Commissioner

��

Assistant Commissioner

Chief Superintendent

Superintendent

Inspector Group Captain

Deputy GroupCaptain

Captain Senior DeputyCaptain

DeputyCaptain

RURAL FIRESERVICE

Member

COMMUNICATIONS

CommunicationsCaptain

COMMUNICATIONS

CommunicationsSenior Deputy Captain

COMMUNICATIONS

CommunicationsDeputy Captain

COMMUNICATIONS

CommunicationsMember

NSW Rural Fire Service 97Epaulettes 2

CATERING

Catering Captain

CATERING

Catering SeniorDeputy Captain

CATERING

Catering Deputy Captain

CATERING

Catering Member

CADETS

CadetCoordinator

CADETS

Cadet DeputyCoordinator

CADETS

Cadet Instructor

CADETS

Cadet Adult Member

CHAPLAIN

Chaplain

CADETS

Cadet Captain(Green)

CADETS

Cadet Senior Deputy Captain

(Green)

CADETS

Cadet Deputy Captain(Green)

CADETS

Cadet(Green)

Apart from the epaulettes shown, no otherepaulettes shall be used.Epaulettes supplied through the Rural FireService are proban treated.

NSW Rural Fire ServiceHelmet Colours 1 98

CommissionerAssistant

CommissionerChief

Superintendent

Superintendent Inspector Group Captain

Deputy Group Captain Captain


NSW Rural Fire Service 99

Deputy Captain Member Trainee

Training InstructorCommunications

CaptainCommunications


CommunicationsDeputy Captain

CommunicationsMember Catering Captain

Helmet Colours 2

NSW Rural Fire ServiceHelmet Colours 3 100

Catering Senior Deputy Captain

Catering Deputy Captain Catering Member

Cadet Coordinator

Cadet DeputyCoordinator

Cadet Instructor

Adult Cadet Memberand Cadet RFS Media Officer RFS Media Liaison

NSW Rural Fire Service 101Helmet Colours 4

Media

Critical IncidentSupport Services

Fire Investigation Chaplain

SurnameBack of Helmet

Names on helmets are optional but if used, the name shall be placed centrallyacross the back of the helmet as low to the base as possible. Names shall bethe Surname (Last Name) only in Helvetica Narrow Bold 25mm high x maximum140mm long in reflective lettering 3M 680 CR or equivalent. (Black lettering forWhite, Orange and Yellow helmets, White lettering for Red, Black, Blue andPurple helmets and Green lettering for Cadets).

Yellow fluorescent and retroflective tape supplied and affixed to all newhelmets (bush fire and structural) is not to be removed or obscured.

Apart from the markings noted above NO other markings shall appearon RFS helmets

NSW Rural Fire ServiceTabards & Brassards 1 102

��

DivisionalCommander

��

SECTOR COMMANDER

SectorCommander

��

STAGING AREACO-ORDINATOR

Staging AreaCoordinator

SUPPORTMANAGEMENT

��

ManagementSupport Officer

��

INCIDENTCONTROLLER

��

DEPUTY INCIDENTCONTROLLER

��

SAFETYADVISOR

��

BASE CAMPCO-ORDINATOR

��

SECURITY

Base Camp Coordinator Security

OPERATIONSOFFICER

OperationsOfficer

OPERATIONS

��

OPERATIONSAIR

��

AIROPERATIONS

MANAGER

Air OperationsManager

��

LOGISTICSOFFICER

LogisticsOfficer

��

COMMUNITYLIAISON OFFICER

CommunityLiaison Officer

��

PLANNINGOFFICER

PlanningOfficer

Incident Controller

Deputy Incident Controller

Safety Advisor

��

RFS MEDIALIAISON OFFICER

RFS MediaLiaison

PLANNING

��

LIAISON OFFICERCOMMUNITY

��

MEDIA OFFICER

��


NSW Rural Fire Service 103Tabards & Brassards 2

��

AIR BASEMANAGER

Air BaseManager

��

RESPONSE TEAMCO-ORDINATOR

��

MEDIA LIAISONNSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE

Response TeamCoordinator

RFS FiregroundMedia Liaison

��

AIR BASE SAFETY ADVISOR

Air BaseSafety Advisor

��

AIRCRAFTOFFICER

��

GROUNDCREW

AircraftOfficer

Air BaseGround Crew

��

STRIKETEAM LEADER

Strike Team Leader

��

PHOTOGRAPHERNSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE

RFSPhotographer

MEDIA ESCORT

��

Media Escort


NSW Rural Fire ServiceTabards & Brassards 3 104

��

FIREINVESTIGATION

Fire Investigation

��

CHAPLAIN CISS

Chaplain CriticalIncidentSupportServices

��

RFS LIAISONOFFICER

RFS LiaisonOfficer

��

RURAL FIRESERVICE

RFS Safety Vest

FIRE RESEARCH

House LossSurveys &Research

��

BACO��

INCIDENTCONTROLLER

BreathingApparatusControl Officer

��

OPERATIONSOFFICER

��

COMMANDERNSW RURAL FIRE SERVICE

FiregroundIncidentController for Class 1incidents where RFS isthe primarycombat agency

FiregroundOperationsOfficer for Class 1incidents where NSWFBis the primarycombat agencyand RFSundertakes theoperations role

RFSCommanderfor joint agencyoperations

OTHER TABARDS

Apart from the tabards and brassards shown, NO other tabards and brassards shall be used.

NSW Rural Fire Service 105Finding North ~ Finding South

In March and September the sun rises due east and sets due west. At midday,when the sun is at its highest point in the sky, it can be taken as being due north.

You can quickly find approximate north, whenever the sun is visible, by pointing 12o’clock on your watch to the sun and north is then halfway between 12 o’clock andthe hour hand.

Finding North by using your watch and the sun

At night, if the SouthernCross is visible, you canlocate due south bydrawing imaginary lines inthe sky as shown in thediagram. The stars revolvearound the “South Pole” inthe sky during the night andas the seasons progressbut the same constructionof lines will define the“South Pole”.

Finding South by the stars

NSW Rural Fire ServiceVehicle Categories 1 106

Category 1Heavy Bush Fire TankerWeight 13,000kgLength 7,800mmHeight 3,200mmWidth 2,400mmWater Capacity 3,001-4,000 litres

Category 2 Medium Bush Fire TankerWeight 10,000kgLength 7,600mmHeight 3,050mmWidth 2,400mmWater Capacity 1,601-3,000 litres

Category 7Light Bush Fire Tanker - Single CabWeight 6,000kgLength 5,200mmHeight 2,700mmWidth 2,100mmWater Capacity 801-1,600 litres

Vehicle Categories 1(nominal weights & dimensions)

NSW Rural Fire Service 107Vehicle Categories 2

Vehicle Categories 2

Category 7Light Bush Fire Tanker - Crew CabWeight 6,000kgLength 6,150mmHeight 2,700mmWidth 2,100mmWater Capacity 801-1,600 litres

Category 9 Striker/Mop-upWeight VariesLength 4,500mmHeight 1,900mmWidth 1,950mmWater Capacity 350-800 litres

PumperCategory 11 Urban PumperWeight 10,000kgLength 7,400mmHeight 2,900mmWidth 2,700mmWater Capacity 1,601+ litres

NSW Rural Fire ServiceUSAR Symbols 1 108

An integrated, multi-agency response, to locate, provide initial medical care andremove entrapped persons from damaged structures in a safe and expeditious manner

A hazardous environment where rescuer safety is the primary consideration:– DO NOT enter a USAR site unless instructed to do so by an authorised person– DO NOT enter confined spaces unless trained and authorised– Wear full personal protective equipment including goggles and gloves– If entering a site, request dust mask, knee and elbow protection and a head torch

A site is divided into ‘Hot’, ‘Warm’ and ‘Cold’ Zones

Collapsed structure is divided clockwise into quadrants A to D– the centre core (optional) is identified as E– multi-storey structures have each floor marked as viewed from the exterior

The International Search and Rescue Advisory Group(INSARAG)

Urban Search and Rescue (USAR)

Standard Marking System

Hot Zone (Collapse Hazard Area)

marked by perimeter fence withcrossed barrier tape

Front of Structure

Warm Zone (Operational Work Area)

marked by perimeter fence with asingle horizontal barrier tape

Quadrant B

E

Quadrant C

Quadrant A Quadrant D

NSW Rural Fire Service 109USAR Symbols 2

Structure Assessment Marking

1m x 1m box at the primary access point containing all information required

by rescue teams

When assessment is complete, a circleis drawn around but this does notmean the rescue task is complete

Victim Marking

A large ‘V’ is drawn near the location ofknown or potential victim/s indicating

the number of living and dead

An arrow is drawn beside the ‘V’ toindicate location of the victim/s has

been confirmed

A line drawn through the ‘L’ or ‘D’indicates the victims that have

been extricated

A line is drawn through the ‘V’ whenextrication is complete. A line throughthe ‘V’ and a circle indicate all victims

removed and rescue team has moved on

NSW Rural Fire Service 110Conversion Table

Distance

1km = 1,000m = 0.62 miles

1.61 km = 1 mile

Area

1 hectare = 100,000 sq m = 2.47 acres

0.405ha = 1 acre

100ha = 1 sq km

2.59 sq km = 1 sq mile

Volume (liquids)

4.55 litres = 1 gallon

1,000 litres = 1 cubic metre = 1tonne = 220 gallons

1 litre (water) = 1 kilogram

Speed

1km/hour = 0.54 knots/hour = 0.62 miles/hour

1.85 km/hour = 1knot/hour = 1.15 miles/hour

TemperatureoC x 9/5 + 32 = oF

(oF - 32) x 5/9 = oC

Conversion Table

Fire Fighters Pocketbook

Documents

Transcript of Fire Fighters Pocketbook