To outline the procedures, responsibilities, and protocols for responding to water rescue incidents.
Applicable to all fire department personnel involved in water rescue operations.
Water Rescue: The act of saving a person from water-related emergencies such as drowning, swift water, ice, or flooding.
Swift Water: Fast-moving water typically found in rivers or flood situations.
Cold Water/Ice Rescue: Incidents involving ice-covered bodies of water or cold water situations.
Incident Commander (IC): Overall command of the incident.
Safety Officer: Ensures safety protocols are followed.
Rescue Team Leader: Directs rescue operations.
Rescue Swimmers/Technicians: Perform water entry and rescue tasks.
Support Personnel: Assist with equipment, communications, and logistics.
Mandatory Training: All personnel involved in water rescue operations must complete certified training courses (e.g., NFPA 1006, Swift Water Rescue Technician).
Ongoing Training: Regular drills and exercises to maintain proficiency.
Certification: Personnel must hold valid certification in water rescue techniques.
Weather Conditions: Monitor and adjust operations based on weather.
Hazard Identification: Constantly assess for new hazards (debris, changing water levels).
Backup Plan: Always have a secondary plan in case primary rescue efforts fail.
Dispatch and Response:
Gather initial information (location, number of victims, nature of the emergency).
Respond with appropriate units and equipment.
Scene Assessment:
Establish Incident Command System (ICS).
Conduct a scene size-up (hazards, victim location, water conditions).
Set up staging area away from immediate hazards.
Initial Actions:
Establish safety zones (Hot, Warm, Cold).
Deploy spotters/lookouts to monitor conditions.
Secure a downstream safety team if applicable.
Rescue Operations:
Reach: Attempt to reach the victim from shore using poles or ropes.
Throw: Use throw bags or ropes to pull the victim to safety.
Row: Deploy boats for victim retrieval if safe and practical.
Go: Only trained rescue swimmers should enter the water.
Helo: Utilize helicopters for aerial rescue if available.
Victim Handling:
Assess and stabilize victims.
Transport to medical facilities if necessary.
Conduct debriefing and after-action review.