Lesson 5
Emergency Response
In This Lesson
1. Incident Command System (ICS)
ICS is a standardized management system for organizing emergency response, ensuring clear command structure and effective resource management.
ICS Management Functions
Incident Commander
Overall responsibility for incident management. Sets objectives, priorities, and strategies.
Operations Section
Tactical operations to achieve objectives. Directs firefighting, rescue, and suppression activities.
Planning Section
Collects and evaluates information. Prepares incident action plans and documentation.
Logistics Section
Provides resources, supplies, and services. Manages facilities, food, medical, and communications.
Finance/Admin Section
Tracks costs, procurement, and compensation claims. Manages time and cost accounting.
ICS Principles
Command Staff Positions
- Public Information Officer (PIO): Media relations, public information
- Safety Officer: Monitors safety conditions, stops unsafe acts
- Liaison Officer: Coordinates with other agencies
2. Rescue Operations
Rescue is the removal of victims from danger or harm. Fire rescue operations follow specific priorities and procedures.
Rescue Priorities (RECEO-VS)
- R
Rescue
Life safety is first priority. Remove victims from danger.
- E
Exposures
Protect adjacent properties and structures.
- C
Confinement
Contain fire to area of origin.
- E
Extinguishment
Put out the fire.
- O
Overhaul
Check for hidden fire, ensure complete extinguishment.
- V
Ventilation
Remove smoke, heat, and gases.
- S
Salvage
Protect property from further damage.
Victim Search Methods
Primary Search
- • Quick, systematic search
- • During active firefighting
- • High-risk areas first
- • Check under beds, closets
Secondary Search
- • Thorough, systematic search
- • After fire is controlled
- • Different team than primary
- • Confirm all areas clear
3. Basic Life Support (BLS)
BLS includes life-saving techniques such as CPR and first aid that can be performed without advanced medical equipment.
CPR - Adult (CAB Method)
Compressions
- • 30 compressions
- • Depth: At least 2 inches (5 cm)
- • Rate: 100-120 per minute
- • Allow full chest recoil
Airway
- • Head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver
- • Check for obstructions
- • Jaw thrust if spinal injury suspected
Breathing
- • 2 rescue breaths
- • Each breath 1 second
- • Watch for chest rise
- • Ratio: 30:2 (compressions to breaths)
Chain of Survival
AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
- Turn on AED
- Attach electrode pads to bare chest
- Allow AED to analyze rhythm
- Clear patient, deliver shock if advised
- Resume CPR immediately after shock
- Follow AED prompts
4. Hazmat Response
Hazardous materials incidents require special procedures to protect responders and the public.
Hazmat Classes
Class 1
Explosives
Class 2
Gases
Class 3
Flammable Liquids
Class 4
Flammable Solids
Class 5
Oxidizers
Class 6
Poisons/Infectious
Class 7
Radioactive
Class 8
Corrosives
Class 9
Miscellaneous
Response Zones
Hazmat Response Steps
- Approach from upwind, uphill
- Identify the material (placards, labels, shipping papers)
- Establish isolation zones
- Evacuate or shelter-in-place
- Request specialized resources
- Begin decontamination
5. Emergency Communications
Effective communication is essential for coordinating emergency response operations.
Radio Communication Procedures
- Clear and Concise: Keep messages brief and to the point
- Proper Protocol: Identify caller and receiver, wait for acknowledgment
- Plain Language: Use clear language, avoid codes unless standard
- No Jargon: Avoid slang or unclear terms
- Confirm Receipt: Acknowledge all messages
Emergency Numbers - Philippines
Report Format
When reporting an emergency, include:
- • Location: Exact address and landmarks
- • Type of Emergency: Fire, rescue, medical, hazmat
- • Extent: Size, spread, victims involved
- • Exposures: Nearby hazards or people at risk
- • Resources Needed: Additional units, equipment
BFP Emergency Response Tips
- ✓Master ICS structure - know the command functions and principles.
- ✓Know RECEO-VS - fireground operational priorities.
- ✓Learn CPR sequence - compressions, airway, breathing (CAB).
- ✓Understand hazmat zones - hot, warm, cold zone concepts.