Urban Search and Rescue
1003.1 PURPOSE & SCOPE
To establish guidelines and procedures for the operations of the Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) division to ensure timely and effective response to incidents involving structural collapse, confined space rescue, trench rescue, and other complex rescue scenarios.
This policy applies to all personnel within the fire department's USAR division and outlines the standards for training, equipment, operations, and inter-agency coordination.
1003.2 rESPONSIBILITIES
USAR Division Commander: Oversees all USAR operations, ensures compliance with SOPs, and maintains readiness of personnel and equipment.
USAR Team Leaders: Manage team members during operations, ensure safety protocols are followed, and coordinate with the Incident Commander.
USAR Technicians: Execute rescue operations, maintain proficiency through training, and ensure proper use of equipment.
1003.3 ACTIVATION AND RESPONSE
Notification: Upon receipt of an incident report, the dispatch center will notify the USAR division commander and activate the USAR team.
Mobilization: USAR personnel will report to the designated assembly point, don appropriate PPE, and prepare necessary equipment.
Deployment: The USAR team will proceed to the incident site following established routes and in coordination with other responding units.
1003.3 Scene Assessment & safety protocols
Initial Assessment: Conduct a thorough assessment of the incident scene to identify hazards, determine the scope of the operation, and establish priorities.
Safety Zones: Establish hot, warm, and cold zones to control access and ensure safety.
PPE Usage: Ensure all personnel wear appropriate PPE at all times.
Buddy System: Implement the buddy system to enhance safety and accountability.
Emergency Procedures: Establish emergency evacuation procedures and ensure all personnel are familiar with them.
1003.4 rESCUE operations & medical support
Entry and Search: Utilize search techniques (e.g., visual, audible, technical search devices) to locate victims.
Stabilization: Implement structural stabilization techniques to secure the environment before extrication.
Extrication: Employ appropriate rescue techniques and equipment for the safe removal of victims.
Triage: Perform triage to prioritize victims based on the severity of injuries.
Medical Treatment: Provide initial medical treatment and coordinate with EMS for the transport of victims to medical facilities.
1003.5 cOMMUNICATION
Internal Communication: Maintain clear and continuous communication among USAR team members using designated radio channels.
External Communication: Coordinate with other responding agencies and provide regular updates to the Incident Commander.
1003.6 tools & Equipment
Structural Collapse Tools
Shoring and Stabilization
Hydraulic shoring systems
Pneumatic shoring systems
Timber and lumber
Shoring brackets and connectors
Cutting Tools
Circular saws (gasoline and electric-powered)
Reciprocating saws
Concrete saws
Chainsaws
Bolt cutters
Rebar cutters
Breaking and Breaching Tools
Sledgehammers
Pick axes
Halligan tools
Pry bars and crowbars
Hydraulic spreaders and cutters
Jackhammers (electric and pneumatic)
Confined Space Rescue Tools
Rope and Rigging Equipment
Rescue ropes (static and dynamic)
Carabiners and pulleys
Harnesses
Ascenders and descenders
Rope bags
Tripods and Anchor Systems
Portable tripods
Anchor plates and straps
Winches and hoists
Air Monitoring Devices
Gas detectors (multi-gas detectors)
Oxygen meters
Carbon monoxide detectors
Search and Detection Tools
Search Cameras
Fiber-optic search cameras
Telescoping search cameras
Listening Devices
Seismic and acoustic listening devices
Sound detection systems
Thermal Imaging Cameras
Handheld thermal imagers
Vehicle-mounted thermal imagers
Medical Equipment
First Aid Supplies
Trauma kits
Splints and bandages
Burn care kits
Advanced Medical Equipment
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)
Oxygen tanks and masks
IV kits and fluids
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
General PPE
Helmets with chin straps
Eye protection (goggles and face shields)
Gloves (work gloves, cut-resistant gloves)
Hearing protection (earplugs, earmuffs)
High-visibility vests
Respiratory Protection
N95 masks
Half-mask and full-face respirators
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)
Body Protection
Coveralls
Flame-resistant clothing
Knee and elbow pads
Safety boots
Communication and Navigation Tools
Radios and Communication Devices
Handheld radios
Base station radios
Satellite phones
Navigation Equipment
GPS devices
Maps and compasses
Mobile data terminals (MDTs)
Lighting and Power Tools
Lighting Equipment
Portable floodlights
Headlamps
Handheld flashlights
Power Tools and Generators
Portable generators
Extension cords
Battery packs and chargers
Specialized Rescue Tools
Water Rescue Equipment
Life vests and flotation devices
Throw bags
Inflatable boats and rafts
Trench Rescue Tools
Trench shoring equipment
Trench panels and struts
Ladders
Miscellaneous Tools and Equipment
Tool Kits
Mechanic’s tool sets
Electrician’s tool sets
Carpenter’s tool sets
Heavy Equipment
Skid steers
Backhoes
Cranes
Logistics and Support Equipment
Portable shelters
Cooling and heating units
Water purification systems