A Guide to the Creation of
Safe, Effective Simulations
for
Fire Department
Training and Evaluation Exercises
Revised: March 2008
A number of Fire Departments, Organizations and Associations were consulted during the development and revision of the Simulations Guide. The Office of the Fire Marshal gratefully acknowledges the contribution of:
Members of the Endorsement Review Board
Ontario Fire College
Ontario Fire Services Certification Council
Ontario Professional Setting Body
Ryerson Polytechnic University, Continuing Education
Representatives of the Municipal Fire Services Instructors Association
Representatives for Fire Prevention Officers
Representatives for Company Officers
Barrie Fire & Emergency Services
Central York Fire Services
Mnijkaning Fire Rescue Services
Toronto Fire Services
Vaughan Fire & Rescue Service
Table of Contents
Environmental concerns shall be addressedA personnel accountability and entry control system shall be in placeA safety/medical lead and team must be identifiedMinimum personnel, personal protective equipment and necessary equipment required must be identified, as well as hazards and special considerationsA predetermined code word like ‘freeze’ must be incorporated into a scenario
should safety be comprisedA notification process must be in placeThe location of emergency medical equipment must be identifiedA list of available equipment must be providedHelpful Hints
In recognition of the diversity of training facilities across the province, the following suggestions are made for the creation of cost-effective, acceptable simulations.
It will often be cost-effective, time-efficient and a good learning/testing situation for the student if a number of skills performance requirements are combined. For example, Overhaul ties nicely with Forcible Entry, Suppression and Portable Extinguishers.
Conduct training and evaluation exercises under varied lighting conditions.
For effect and increased realism, use an audio-tape of an actual incident complete with engine, siren, radio and fire noises.
There are many benefits to partnering, particularly for smaller fire departments.
It may be possible to negotiate the use of a training facility with a large, local industrial group.
Partner with insurance companies and/or building officials that have access to old buildings due for demolition or removal. These buildings may be appropriate for training and evaluation of forcible entry, ventilation, overhaul, ladders, and search and rescue. A sample release, used by the City of Ottawa, Fire Services, appears in Appendix C.
In an article ‘Outside the Box’ in Fire Chief magazine July 2003, 38-44, authors Dominic Colletti and Larry Davis present the benefits of using acquired structures and how they can be used effectively and safely.
Partner with a local hardware store and/or lumberyard. In exchange for acknowledgement, they may be willing to donate materials for the construction of doorframes and lock assemblies, roofs, windows, etc. Ask construction companies for scrap supplies.
Contact claims adjusting and reconstruction businesses that deal with the aftermath of a fire. Often, these private-sector organizations are willing to financially assist the fire departments with the construction of training facilities.
Investigate organizations that provide funds for worthwhile projects. Refer to Chapter Three for information on developing a funding proposal.
Partner with a school that offers an apprenticeship program. Students may be available to build and rebuild training/evaluation structures.
And most importantly, reduce costs and increase the effectiveness of training by partnering with neighbouring departments. Collaborate on a county or regional basis.
Developing Funding
Proposals to
Support Community
Fire Service Projects
Introduction
Acquiring funding or donations of materials from foundations,
social organizations, not-for-profit agencies or companies is possible. Remember
that there is growing competition from a number of worthwhile causes. Often the
donation goes to the group that researches and develops the best proposal on
paper.
Library reference books list foundations or granting bodies, and often include
the funding process, the most appropriate date for submissions, to which
donations are made and for what purposes.
Consider the timing of requests in relation to a funding organization’s budget
year.
Corporate Sponsorship
If corporate sponsorship is the goal, research the company
through its annual report and library references. Determine what projects have
previously been funded. Discover similarities amongst the successful groups.
If this is your first request from an organization, start small. Five to ten
thousand dollars is an average gift.
Identify an employee to deliver the proposal to the company decision-makers and
to champion the fire department cause.
Establish ways to meet local community business leaders.
Send a personally addressed letter asking if the company would consider a
funding proposal.
The Proposal
The ideal length for a proposal is three to five pages.
The proposal will contain:
A title page
A table of contents
An executive summary
A brief description of the fire service
Names of fire department senior officers
Financial statements/budget for the preceding and current years
A detailed description of the proposal
Value added to the community by the proposal
Project launch date
Corporate recognition program
Supporting documentation
An effective, visual presentation will encourage the reviewer to
read it. The most effective proposals use lots of white space on each page, keep
various aspects of the proposal separate, and are neatly and professionally
packaged.
Colour, while a little more expensive, adds significantly to the appeal of a
package.
Executive Summary
In one or two pages summarize the proposal, state why the organization has been approached, describe the value to the organization of their support of this project, and briefly describe how the project will be developed and implemented.
Description of the Fire Service
Emphasize the depth and variety of work done, and the value to
the community. Provide detail on the volume of activity in the department.
Include charts or graphs in appendices that demonstrate population growth and/or
increased department expectations.
Names of Fire Department Senior Officers
These are included to demonstrate that strong leadership is
directing the project and managing its budget.
If appropriate, provide the Internet link to the city/town council. Include the
names of firefighters who are key people in the community.
Financial Statements/Budget
Financial statements or a department budget are included to demonstrate effective money management. If you think it is of value, include how expenditures are monitored.
Description of the Proposal
Ensure that this part of the document is complete and reader
friendly because many people may read the proposal on behalf of the funding
organization.
Start with a basic description of the project. Include a statement of need. If
possible, include a picture here or in the appendices.
Describe how the project will be implemented. Provide a critical path with time
lines and measurements for staying on time and within budget.
Describe how the results of the project will be evaluated.
Include information about the project manager and others involved in the
project. Indicate what qualifies them to undertake this project.
Include the cost of the project. For large projects, state if funds can be
spread over several months.
Use no fire service jargon or short forms!
Be enthusiastic about the goals for the project.
Value Added
Organizations help services that provide increased value to the
community.
Use coloured charts and graphs of community demographics and fire department
response to show the added value to the community.
Project Launch Date
State when the project will be initiated. Indicate if media will
be participating. State how and when the funding organization will be
recognized. Include plans for signage.
If appropriate, consider inviting the funding organization and community
representatives to view the project when critical steps are completed.
Corporate Recognition Program
Identify what the fire department will do, in addition to media coverage and signage, to recognize the funding organization.
Supporting Documentation
Be sure to include the information that is requested.
Add information that supports the request for funds, for example, relevant
charts and graphs, newspaper accounts, letters of support from significant
community leaders and previous associations with the funding organization.
However, do not overwhelm them with support material.
Delivery of the Proposal
Ensure that the proposal is delivered promptly and in good
condition.
If possible, use the company contact to arrange a meeting where the proposal can
be delivered personally. Request an opportunity to give a professionally
prepared, brief presentation. Highlight the contents of the executive summary
and the added value to the community. Emphasize how sponsorship will enhance the
organization’s profile in the community.
Follow-up
Contact the company/funding body three to four weeks after your
submission. Allow more time for large requests.
If an organization supports you, say, ‘thank you.’ Keep in touch and update the
funders on the status of the project.
If your request is denied, contact the organization and thank them for their
consideration. Ask why your request was denied. Use this information in future
proposals.
Fireground Operations
Hoses and Appliances
Simulate the pumper hose bed with a pick-up/farm truck bed or
plywood box. With 5/8" plywood and 2" x 4" boards, construct a rectangular box
that is approximately four feet long, by two feet wide by 14 inches high.
The operating standpipe could be the pumper.
|
Hose bed constructed
on a hose holder,
simulated to match the height on a truck |
|
 |
Steel
tubing with gate, gate valve,
gated Y and double male adapters, inserted in a pipe in the ground,
functions as a hose and nozzle attachment during training
in pumping operations |
|
Fire Suppression Techniques
Live fire training and evaluation are deemed to be preferable,
especially for new recruits who should experience the heat, smoke and noise of a
fire before responding to a call, and for seasoned firefighters who have had
minimal exposure to firefighting.
Live fire training and evaluation are required for successful completion of the
Ontario Firefighter Curriculum, Fire Suppression, Skills Performance
Requirement.
When an area of containment is required, consider:
Traveling to a training tower/fire house
Building a concrete ‘bunker’ structure (in accordance with the chief building official) and making it available to surrounding departments
Using a flashover unit
Because of the cost of travel to a facility, liability and
safety issues related to the use of abandoned structures, and the need to be
responsive to environmental concerns, fire departments have flexibility in
determining the most appropriate training methods for their personnel.
Flashover unit
Fire Control
Use an empty hose tower. Establish a water supply to a pumper that is outside
the tower door. Each firefighter, in full protective clothing, with adequate
team members, will:
Act as nozzle person
Advance a 38mm line complete with automatic fog nozzle to the tower door
Demonstrate proper entry preparation
Scenario 1
Describe a confined fire that is well developed in the incipient
stage, in the far-left corner of the room. Search and rescue are a concern.
Ventilation has been established.
The firefighter is to make entry and demonstrate a direct attack with straight
stream in short bursts.
Q. How much water are you going to use?
A. Until the fire darkens down. I will use a minimum amount to achieve knock
down and minimize steam production.
Scenario 2
Describe a confined fire that is well developed in the free
burning stage. The entire back of the room is involved. Heat is excessive.
Ventilation is established. Search and rescue are a concern but fire control is
necessary to improve the safety of search and rescue operations.
The firefighter is to make entry and demonstrate indirect attack, using straight
to narrow fog pattern with a back and forth motion, directed into the upper
portions of the room, in short bursts.
Q. What were you looking for immediately upon entry and prior to attack?
A. Signs of rollover and flashover.
Q. When do you shut down water application?
A. I shut down water application when fire is darkened down and prior to
disruption of thermal balances.
Q. The smoke just got heavy and sluggish and began banking down. What happened?
A. Probably too much water application.
Scenario 3
Describe a very well developed, confined fire, with excessive
heat and smoke that are preventing entry into the fire area. Search and rescue
are not an issue.
The firefighter is to open up and demonstrate a combination attack from outside
the room using a T, Z or O pattern with a narrow to intermediate fog pattern.
Q. What is your goal with this method of attack?
A. Maximum steam production.
Q. Are rapid entry into the area or thermal balance a concern?
A. No.
Scenario 4
Chalk out an area on a tarmac/parking lot that is approximately
30 feet by 30 feet. Describe this as a flammable liquid spill that is on fire.
Explain that foam application is a more desirable method of dealing with this
incident but water used carefully in coordinated attack can be successful.
Firefighters, as team members, with two 38mm lines, set at intermediate to
wide-angle fog and overlapping pattern, demonstrate approach and sweep the fire
from the surface of the fuel. A third 38mm line is required for protection.
Q. Can you enter the pool of extinguished fuel as you go?
A. No, because of wicking, possible re-ignition or flashback.
Q. What are the consequences of your overlapping fog patterns leaving the
surface of the fuel?
A. Flashback or wrap around of fire.
Q. When do you back off to safety?
A. After extinguishment or you can advance no further without entering the pool
of extinguished fuel.
Forcible Entry
After covering liability issues and conducting a safety
inspection, use vacant buildings.
To demonstrate the procedure for breaking glass, partner with local companies
that will provide panes of glass.
To demonstrate the procedures for opening a wooden floor and wood frame wall,
use shipping palettes, with or without gyprock.
To demonstrate the procedure for forcing doors, build a small-scale door and
frame, complete with a lock set.
Partner with lumberyards, who may provide damaged doors.
Simulated door assembly
Ventilation
To demonstrate the method of performing vertical ventilation,
build a roof assembly replica, one metre off the ground. Insert inexpensive
wooden shipping palettes for cutting.
To demonstrate the procedure for positive pressure ventilation, use an electric
smoke ejector and a smoke generator. Ribbons or streamers may be used to
demonstrate air movement.
In the March 1994 issue of Fire Engineering, there
is an interesting article entitled Trailer as a Training
Facility. Construction details of a roof simulator are provided.
To add further realism to the roof assembly, enclose the bottom and use a
smoke-generating machine.
Roof Assembly Models for Ventilation Operations
Slanted roof assembly positioned at
grade level to facilitate
learning/teaching and safety
for the learner, observers and instructors
Slanted and flat roof
assembly at grade level facilitates different roof pitches
and is repaired/rebuilt by trade-school students
Search and Rescue
To add realism, have
firefighters in full turnout gear and SCBA, and use blacked-out face pieces
and/or a smoke generator. After getting permission, conduct search and rescue
exercises in public buildings, for example, a school, township offices, a local
restaurant or a public underground-parking garage.
In the March 1994 issue of Fire Engineering, there
is an interesting article entitled Trailer as a Training
Facility. Construction details and pictures of a search trainer are
provided. The author also provides information on donated resources.
Also in the March 1994 issue of Fire Engineering,
there is information and detailed drawings on the conversion of a 40-foot
trailer to a self-contained breathing apparatus training facility in an article
entitled Economic Joint Training Facility. It
highlights the partnership arrangement of four fire departments.
In the January 1995 issue of Fire Engineering, there
is an article entitled SCBA Confidence Course. The
author describes the cost-effective construction of obstacles and props in an
unused large basement room. He includes information on the collection of
materials and donation of labour.
Following is a diagram and information on constructing an adult hose rescue
mannequin, courtesy of Alan Brody, Fire Training Officer, Mnjikaning First
Nation Fire & Rescue Services.
Adult Hose Rescue Mannequin
Courtesy: Alan Brody, Fire Training Officer, Mnjikaning First Nation Fire &
Rescue Services
Approximate cost of hardware - $14.00
Materials Needed
Three – lengths 65mm (2½) hose
One – 5/8 x 36” threaded rod
Four – 5/8 nuts
Twenty – 5/8 washers
Four – ½ washers
Eight – 5/16 carriage bolts
Eight – 5/16 nuts
Eight – 5/16 washers
Cut Hose
One piece – 84 inches
One piece – 87 inches
One piece – 90 inches
One piece – 93 inches
One piece – 96 inches
One piece – 41 inches (filler)
Ten pieces – 60 inches (legs)
Eight pieces – 36 inches (arms)
Two pieces – 20 inches (shoulder)
Overhaul
Use a bale of hay or an old mattress to demonstrate pulling apart materials with deep-seated burning.
Size-Up
The simulated fire situation may be portrayed on an overhead, in a still picture or on a video clip. Students’ observation skills may be honed by having them travel a planned route and answering specific questions about what they saw en route.
Fire Cause Determination
Burn Cells
Burn cells are a practical option for providing participants
with a sufficiently realistic opportunity to practise and apply their learning,
and to demonstrate their skills for Job Experience
Requirement Performance Checklist sign-off purposes. For the purposes of
fire cause investigation and determination, actual fire scenes provide the best
training/evaluation opportunities. However, actual scenes are not always
available or their use for these purposes may be restricted due to legal aspects
or various other reasons.
Additionally, fire department personnel may acquire unused buildings and burn
rooms within them for this process. However, procedures and legalities may be
very complex.
Burn cells are re-usable and portable, which makes their use advantageous.
Description of a Practical Burn Cell
For training and evaluation purposes, the Ontario Fire College
has constructed a number of burn cells.
These burn cells have been constructed of wood frame covered with plywood. The
wooden platform is equipped with wheels (dollies) for the purpose of
portability. Interior dimensions are eight feet wide, eight feet long and eight
feet high. Therefore, application of drywall is easy using 4’ x 8’ sheets. There
are no windows and the door at the front is a barn door style for easy access
and viewing. After each fire scenario, drywall needs to be replaced. However,
properly timed and monitored burns restrict damage to the structure. It is
recommended that drywall be placed above the door on the outside wall to prevent
or diminish charring to the plywood and frame during burns.
Furnishings
Furniture may be obtained through consultation with various
organizations such as the Salvation Army. Upholstered furniture such as a couch
and chair provide an excellent fire load and realistic evaluation. Small tables
and pictures are ideal to create a more authentic scene. Additionally, used
carpet is an excellent material for floor patterns and also affords some
protection to the floor.
Municipalities may have access to used furniture through bulk garbage pickups in
their community. Ideally, where storage space is available, furniture would be
collected over time for training/evaluation purposes.
Scene reconstruction is a worthwhile and realistic challenge for the
participant. Represent normal overhaul and fire suppression activities by
removing some of the material from the burn cell. Challenge participants to read
the patterns and replace materials.
Safety
Burns must be conducted in a safe manner in compliance with the
Occupational Health and Safety Act and fire department procedures. OFM Policy
310 – Fire Simulation for Investigation Training describes how burns will be
conducted and what combustible accelerants may be used. Flammable liquids
must not be used due to the risk of explosion, which
may result in injuries. Newspapers or combustible fuel can be used to speed up
the process to a suitable burn.
Prior to ignition, a fire suppression crew must be on site, suited up and with a
charged line ready to extinguish the fire on short notice. The fire should not
be allowed to progress into a flashover stage as damage may be too severe to
provide a suitable training/assessment opportunity.
Scenarios
Scenarios that produce both incendiary and accidental situations
should complement fires.
Create a fire on a couch to simulate careless smoking. Hang curtains on a wall
to simulate a window and show the effects of drop burning. Create the typical
drinking and smoking situation by placing drinking glasses, beer bottles or
liquor bottles around the room. Provide an opportunity to reconstruct the scene
using burn patterns.
Create a situation similar to the one above but with accelerant patterns using a
combustible fuel or trailer.
Be cautious about using the burn cell to demonstrate how a candidate would
conduct and direct “salvage operations” as the activity could destroy the burn
cell for investigation.
After fire suppression operations, the candidate shall restrict scene access in
compliance with the Fire Protection and Prevention Act (1997) in order to
protect evidence and limit access to the scene. Provide an opportunity to
“direct or arrange for securing of building”18 and “secure fire scene”1920 by using
materials such as barrier tape, placards, boarding and/or guards so that the
scene and evidence remains undisturbed until the investigation has been
completed.
The candidate should demonstrate awareness of the fact that no one, including
the property owner or the occupant, is allowed access to the scene.
Create questions/‘what ifs’ in the scenario so that the candidate can
demonstrate his/her knowledge of when to “inform the Office of the Fire Marshal
in cases of fire death, large loss, gaseous explosion or arson”21 and can simulate
a “request (for an) Office of the Fire Marshal investigator.”22 Candidates and
assessors must also be aware of and incorporate the information from the current OFM Communiqué regarding fires investigated by the OFM.
The scenario should be created with ‘actors’ who have scripts so that the
candidate can “interview witnesses, occupants, firefighters and owner to gather
information so that relevant information is obtained and documented and a
complete and accurate survey report can be filed.”23 Information obtained must be
documented in a notebook for future reference.
The candidate must “inspect fire scene both internally and externally”24 to locate
casualties and possible evidence, and to observe burn patterns to determine the
area of origin and source of ignition.
The candidate seeks to “recognize and report evidence of cause and origin of
fire”25 and “determine source of ignition”26 by searching for physical evidence and
evaluating burn patterns while making notes and sketches and eliminating
electrical and other sources of ignition.
The candidate must utilize all information obtained, including his/her notes,
personal observations, statements obtained and physical evidence gathered/noted
to “determine the cause of the fire.”27
The scenario may be created so that the candidate can demonstrate how s/he would
“assist the Office of the Fire Marshal investigator by providing personnel,
information and equipment.”28
Environmental Hazards –
Hazardous Materials
Exercise Design
Trainees or candidates seeking completion of the
Job Performance Requirement Experience Checklist
could participate in a simulated role-playing exercise involving hazardous
material at the first responder/awareness level.
To achieve this, candidates could be presented with a screen image or tabletop
display of an industrial occupancy or transportation scene involving a hazardous
materials incident.
The trainer or the person who is signing off the Job
Experience Requirement Performance Checklist facilitates the exercise by
providing dispatch information such as the time of day and weather conditions.
Upon arrival the candidate is expected to “isolate the area/site.”29 This could be
demonstrated on an aerial photo of the town/city/site to show where barriers
would be placed. With wind direction and terrain conditions in mind, candidates
would indicate the immediate isolation area.
The candidate would also be required to demonstrate how s/he would size up the
scene (“identify hazardous products from a safe distance”30), report to dispatch
and form an action plan. The candidate will also assess if the hazard zone may
be entered given the training and personal protective equipment (PPE) available.
Radio reports should be sent to a simulated dispatch centre by either portable
radios, headsets systems or simply verbalized.
At this time, the candidate would “request support from external agencies such
as police, Ontario Hydro, Ministry of Labour and ambulance services.”3132 ‘Actors’
with scripts may be utilized to role-play other responding apparatus and/or
representatives from external agencies such as CANUTEC, the Ministry of Labour
and the communications centre.
The candidate, when presented with civilians who may be in jeopardy, would
“direct evacuation using communication equipment.”33 Prompt cards with appropriate
messages can be handed to ‘actors’ to initiate appropriate actions.
If the scenario included inclement weather conditions and/or a colder time of
year, candidates would have to “arrange for (the) well-being of fire victims and
building occupants using external agencies.”34
The candidate must demonstrate and explain how the product would be identified35
prior to actions being taken. Either present the candidate with information such
as container shape and size, and placard and label data, or provide sample labelled drums. Resource material such as the North American Emergency Response
Guide (NAERG) and hazardous materials response worksheets should reflect what is
available on department apparatus.
The candidate is expected to “notify external agencies”36 such as CANUTEC,
Ministry of the Environment, police, emergency medical services, hydro and the
Ministry of Labour and discuss how they would be utilized. S/he should utilize
department SOGs/SOPs to determine the level of actions required.
To “determine (the) source hazardous materials,”37 the scenario should provide the
candidate with the option to interview site personnel and determine the location
of shut-off valves.
The scenario is completed when the candidate has “prepared a hazardous material
response report”38 by filling out the initial worksheet on scene and the
post-incident report using fire department documentation/forms.
By having a worker injured or killed as a result of the incident, the candidate
could demonstrate his/her ability to “notify external agencies of industrial
agencies.”39 At an appropriate time in the scenario, the candidate is notified,
verbally or with a prompt card, that a critical injury or death has occurred.
If necessary, this scenario could also be used to meet the requirement of skills
specific performance objective 05.05, “conducts and directs search and rescue of
victims of industrial accidents.”
Sample Scenario
On February 1, 2003 at 1400 hours, Pumper 1 is dispatched to 3
Main Street to a reported spill at the Acme Chemical Company. Dispatch informs
en route of possible injuries involved.
Upon arrival, Pumper 1 observes a large industrial occupancy of approximately
100,000 square feet. (A site diagram, tabletop model or computer image is to be
provided.) The site plan shows surrounding occupancies, the location of
hydrants. Cue cards provide additional information such as wind direction. On
site, a worker greets the candidate and informs him/her that a tow motor
operator has punctured a tank in the building that contains a toxic substance.
By asking questions and obtaining the MSDS, the candidate eventually identifies
the product as toluene. The candidate is also informed that not all plant
workers have been accounted for.
The candidate sends an initial report and determines the need for additional
resources.
The situation develops using the following prompts sent by other participants:
Missing worker
Building evacuation
Arrival of external agencies such as police, EMS and a hazmat unit
Call to CANUTEC (check out actual use of CANUTEC for an evaluation exercise)
Arrival of senior officer and transfer of command
The scenario is terminated after command is transferred to a
senior officer. The candidate will demonstrate the requirements for post-call
documentation.
This section of the Simulations Guide addresses only those
skills in the Job Experience Requirement Performance
Checklist for firefighter certification that can be simulated.
The job experience component of the Ontario Firefighter
Certification Program provides firefighters with the opportunity to
demonstrate knowledge and skills on-the-job. To successfully meet the
requirements, the firefighter must receive no coaching while s/he is completing
a task.
Performance Objective 01.08 Extend existing hose
lines
If simulated, use hose lines only, with water flow.
Performance Objective 01.11 Recognize and report
evidence of cause and origin of fire
If simulated, use video clips or still pictures from magazines of coloured smoke
and different involvements. Use the Internet for a varied of still photos.
Performance Objective 01.12 Gain access to a secured area using
forcible entry
See Chapter Four for simulation suggestions on forcible entry.
Performance Objectives 01.13 Conduct a search for victims, 01.14
Evacuate/remove victim(s) and 01.15 Evacuate potential victims from areas of
possible danger
If simulated, a building equal to that of a single-family dwelling must be used,
with smoke, victim(s) and heat.
Performance Objective 01.16 Isolate services including gas, water
and electricity
This objective should be addressed in command and control and is part of
size-up.
Performance Objectives – Vehicle Extrication 02.03 Conduct a
search for victims, 02.04 Stabilize the vehicle, 02.05 Assess and stabilize the
victims, 02.06 Provide a means of egress from the vehicle and 02.07 Remove
stabilized victim from the vehicle
A vehicle must be used in the simulation.
Performance Objective – Electrical Hazard Rescue 02.39 Size up
hazards involving electrically charged wire(s)
The simulation should not be charged. It can easily be simulated with an
extension cord or rope draped over a car or fence.
Performance objectives 03.02 Interpret emergency response guide,
03.01 Identify hazardous products and 3.04 Determine if specialized assistance
is required
If simulated, the company officer may create the scene with a written
description that preferably, is supported by a video clip, 35mm slide(s) or
still pictures of a hazardous materials incident.
To determine the firefighter’s ability to interpret the emergency response
guide, the company officer may reference the information in the Office of the
Fire Marshal, Hazardous Materials Operations Course.
The company officer may use questions, similar to those provided. A
multiple-choice answer format must not be used.
Consult the Transport Canada Transportation of Dangerous Goods website at
www.tc.gc.ca for support materials such as
placards, information on CANUTEC and current information on the
Emergency Response Guide.
Performance Objectives 04.03 Conduct primary survey, 04.04 Open
and maintain a patent airway, 04.05 Perform ventilations, 04.06 Perform external
chest compressions, 04.08 Control external bleeding, 04.11 Conduct a secondary
survey, 04.12 Immobilize suspected head and spinal injuries, 04.13 Immobilize
suspected bone and joint injuries, 04.08 Apply sterile dressings to wound, 04.14
Provide comfort, reassurance and emotional support, 04.15 Treat chemical and/or
thermal burns and 04.19 Recognize and treat victims of poisoning
Set the Scene
Start with a realistic scene: an automobile collision, an
industrial incident or a person who is ill at home. The age of the
‘patients/victims’ should vary, depending on the illness or injury being
simulated. Include opportunities for infant and child scenarios.
By using a carefully constructed scenario, the evaluator can incorporate
multiple skills-specific performance objectives.
Set the Patient
If possible, have volunteers play the part of ‘patients/victims’ to lend realism
to the experience. Coach the ‘patients/victims’ on how to act and what to say
when the firefighter asks about history, and current signs and symptoms. A
coaching sheet for ‘patients/victims’ may help them remember how to act and what
to say particularly if the ‘patient/victim’ is a member of the public. The
evaluator may add information about the scene, and signs and symptoms, as they
develop.
Emergency Patient Care – Sample Scenario
It is late afternoon in January. A car has run into a utility
pole. When the firefighters arrive, they are told there is a live wire on top of
the car. There is only one victim in the car but there is a child car seat in
the back seat. The windows of the car are open when they arrive.
When the team indicates that hydro is to be notified, tell them the wire is now
dead.
Information to the Team
It is 4:30 p.m. on January 21 and the report says there has been an MVA. The car
has run into a utility pole on an isolated road.
Instructions to the Victim
The victim is a 28-year old man with a head injury/laceration. When the
firefighters arrive, he is confused. The firefighters have to repeat
questions/directions to him several times in order for him to understand and
follow through. He complains of dizziness and wants to get out of the car. If
firefighters palpate his legs, he is to complain of pain in his right knee. If
asked where he has been/what he has been doing, he admits that he was at the
Downtowner Lounge for lunch and most of the afternoon.
Performance objective 03.05 Evacuate hazardous locations
Reference Section 21 Guidance Note #5-1 (34) Firefighter Accountability and
Entry Control
“The accountability/incident command system provides a means for the emergency
removal of crews from the interior of a hazard zone when conditions present an
immediate life hazard.”
"All firefighters should be familiar with their department's method of sounding
an evacuation signal. There are several ways this communication may be done. The
two most common are to broadcast a radio message ordering them to evacuate and
to sound the audible warning devices on the apparatus at the fire scene for an
extended period of time.
“The radio broadcast of an evacuation signal should be handled in a manner
similar to that described for emergency traffic. The message should be broadcast
several times to make sure that everyone hears it.
“The use of audible warning devices on apparatus, such as sirens and air horns,
will work outside small structures, but they may not be heard by everyone
working in a large building."40
"Most fire departments have a standard evacuation signal to warn all personnel
to pull back to a safe location. The evacuation signal could be a sequence of
three blasts on an apparatus air horn, repeated several times, or sirens sounded
on ‘high-low’ for 15 seconds. An evacuation warning should be announced at least
three times to ensure that everyone hears it and announced on the radio by the
IC. Because there is no universal evacuation signal, firefighters must learn
their department's SOP for emergency evacuation.”41
Performance objectives 05.06 Assess the need for rehabilitation
and 05.07 Assess the need to access critical incident stress intervention
Ensure that firefighters know where to get help.
Possible references include:
The Section 21 Guidance Notes #3-3 Heat and Cold Stress and #6-12 (36) Rehabilitation During Emergency Operations
Your department’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Your regional health unit
Performance objective 06.03 Drive fire apparatus
in emergency and non-emergency situations
Reference Section 21 Guidance Notes #6-7 (22) Driving Skills for Emergency
Apparatus Response and #1-3 Backing Fire Apparatus.
Performance objective 07.07 Inspect and test hoses
This is a safety issue. An excellent reference is NFPA 1962 Standard for the
Inspection, Care, and Use of Fire Hose, Couplings, and Nozzles and the Service
Testing of Fire Hose, current edition.
This section of the Simulations Guide addresses only those
skills in the Job Experience Requirement Performance
Checklist that can be simulated.
The job experience component of the Ontario Fire Prevention
Officer Certification Program provides fire prevention officers with the
opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and skills on-the-job. To successfully meet
the requirements, the candidate must receive no coaching while s/he is
completing a task.
Performance objectives 01.27 Inspects site and issues permits for
open air burning, 01.28 Conducts inspections at special events and 01.29
Conducts inspections of displays
The following simulation can be used to demonstrate one, some or
all of the above objectives.
The site visit could be simulated by:
Using a detailed site plan
Using an appropriate video of a potential open air burning/special event site
Using the fire hall property
Visiting a possible location and including a comprehensive written scenario for an event such as a circus, retail show or jamboree, or a display such as a mall exhibit or fair, even though a request has not been received/an event has not been planned
Coordinating with a neighbouring community that has an actual event
Using a smaller scale example such as a street vendor with a shelter (for 01.29)
To successfully demonstrate performance of objective 01.27 in a simulated situation, candidates shall use the information provided in the simulation to:
Identify/consider the:
Time/duration
of the fire
Purpose of
the fire
Amount of
combustibles
Possible
weather conditions
Location of
the fire
Resources for
extinguishment/fire protection
Location of
exposures/combustibles
Location of
property lines
Access
Need for a
fire watch
Prepare and issue an inspection report
Issue the permit, if applicable, including information about a fee, if required
To successfully demonstrate performance of objective 02.28 in a simulated situation, candidates shall use the information provided in the simulation to:
Identify/consider the:
Time/duration
of the event
Purpose of
the event
Number of
participants
Size of the
event
Location of
the event
Resources for
extinguishment/fire protection
Location of
exposures/combustibles
Location of
property lines
Determine that the material used for the floor, wall and roof covering meets the required flame spread rating
Determine if smoking is permitted
Ensure that a fire safety plan has been submitted, approved and implemented in accordance with the Fire Code
Note the need for specialized inspections by other authorities
Prepare and issue an inspection report
Issue the permit, if applicable, including information about a fee, if required
To successfully demonstrate performance of objective 01.29 in a simulated situation, candidates shall use the information provided in the simulation to:
Identify/consider the:
Time/duration
of the display
Purpose or
special uses
Amount of
combustibles/materials
Location of
the display
Proximity to
heat sources
Use of
power/fuel sources
Resources for
extinguishment/fire protection
Location of
exposures/combustibles
Possible
obstruction of exits
Ensure that a fire safety plan has been submitted, approved and implemented in accordance with the Fire Code
Prepare and issue an inspection report
Issue the permit, if applicable, including information about a fee, if required
Performance objectives 03.04 Prepares
teaching/lesson plans, 03.09 Pilot tests/rehearses fire safety programs, 03.11
Delivers fire safety programs
These can be simulated but the candidate must actually prepare a lesson plan,
rehearse the lesson and deliver it. The simulation is only in terms of the
audience. If no target group is available, the candidate may simulate an
audience using fire personnel, for example.
Performance objectives 04.01 Sets up displays,
04.02 Distributes fire safety pamphlets/information and 4.03 Responds to public
requests for information
The following simulation can be used to demonstrate one, some or all of the
above objectives (04.01, 04.02 and/or 04.03).
To successfully demonstrate these performance objectives in a simulated
situation, candidates shall:
Develop and submit to the evaluator a written plan that uses
key words or phrases necessary to convey an ability to set up and use
displays/presentations, including:
The
identified target message and target audience with substantive documentation
for the choice made
The delivery
method and justification for that choice
Set up the display with current and appropriate materials, preferable in a public location but, if necessary, the fire hall
Respond to questions from the evaluator in a way that demonstrates understanding and knowledge of the materials being presented/distributed
Write and submit to the evaluator a press release about the upcoming display, accessing such resources as, camera-ready artwork and PSAs and including a comprehensive list of local target media and contact information
Performance objectives 10.01 Reviews proposal for
compliance alternative(s) from occupant/owner and 10.02 Assesses acceptability
of compliance alternative proposals
While these objectives can be simulated, it is essential that the candidate is
assessing a viable request. If an actual proposal does not exist, a detailed one
must be created for use by the candidate and assessor.
Performance objectives 11.05 Swears Information
before a Justice of the Peace, 11.07 Serves summons(es), 11.08 Recommends an
appropriate penalty and 11.09 Gives evidence at trials
The site can be simulated by using the fire hall property, visiting a
‘simulated’ location, or coordinating activities with a neighbouring community
that has an actual occurrence.
To successfully demonstrate performance objective 11.05 in a simulated situation, candidates shall:
Define the legislative requirements
Confirm the identify of the receiver
Log the date and time of the court appearance
Simulate circumstances for performance objectives 11.08 and 11.09 by arranging a mock trial. Participant players could range from fire department staff to a municipal solicitor, depending on availability and expertise.
To successfully demonstrate these performance objectives in a simulated situation, candidates shall:
Address and respond appropriately to mock Officers of the Court
Write and submit to the evaluator a recommended penalty, in accordance with the OFM Enforcement Guideline, in response to a prepared, comprehensive scenario that clearly outlines the violation
Performance objectives 11.05 Swears Information
before a Justice of the Peace, 11.07 Serves summons(es), 11.08 Recommends an
appropriate penalty and 11.09 Gives evidence at trials (cont’d)
Give the fire prevention officer candidate for certification the following
information in a mock-up file.
An apartment dweller (apartment 306), Lorraine Wright, complained to the fire
department about poor exit lighting in the basement of her apartment building at
34 Queen Street, Little Town, ON L0S 2J1. The FPO conducted an inspection. The
building is a three-storey apartment building with a basement, combustible
construction. There are four units in basement as well as laundry and boiler
rooms. There are six units on other floors. There is no elevator. Building
footprint is 9,000 square feet. It was built in 1964. The FPO found that the
exit lighting in the basement was hard to see and not illuminated. S/he gave the
owner, Garth Willis Jones, 123 Main Street, Little Town, ON L0S 1J0 (AKA: GW or
Rooster DOB: March 16, 1960) one day to complete the work. S/he returned a
second and third day. The work was not completed and charges were laid.
Include a Fire Inspection Report, Fire Inspection Chronology, Notice of
Violation, Search Request and Court Information as per the policies and
procedures of your fire department.
The FPO must:
Review the file to determine the nature of the alleged offences and the documentation provided by the witness
Review the applicable regulations to ensure that proposed charges are actual offences
Identify the defendant to be charged
Accurately prepare an Information and Summons reflecting the appropriate offences
Prepare a Crown Brief summary of the evidence
Determine mitigating and aggravating circumstances, review the case history, than as part of the Crown Brief, make recommendations to the Crown regarding penalty upon conviction.
Simulate the swearing of the Information and Summons. Simulate
serving the summons and have the candidate complete an affidavit of service.
Sample of a Prosecutor Brief
| Accused
|
Garth Willis Jones123 Main Street Little Town, ONL0S 1J0
|
AKA: GW or Rooster DOB: March 16, 1960 (46) |
| Charge
|
Violation of the Ontario Fire Code, O.Reg.
213/07 as amended, contrary to the Fire Protection and Prevention Act 1997,
S.O. 1997, chapter 4, as amended Section 28 – see attached |
|
| Location | 34 Queen Street, Little Town, ON L0S 2J1 | |
| Date | January 25, 2008 | |
| Complainant
|
Mary Smith, Fire Prevention Officer Little Town Fire and Emergency Services 45 Oak Avenue Little Town, ON L0S 2J2 |
|
| Property Description |
Three-storey apartment building with a
basement, combustible construction; four units in basement as well as
laundry and boiler room; six units all other floors; no elevator; building
footprint is 9,000 square feet; built in 1964 |
|
| Witness
|
|
|
| Synopsis of the Offence
|
Received a complaint from Lorraine Wright,
Tenant in apartment 306 about the exit signs in the basement being hard to
see and not illuminated. Attended the location, met with the owner Garth
Jones, conducted an inspection and found problem exit lights in the
basement. Advised him that he was in violation of the Fire Code and that
they should be repaired forthwith. He agreed and I advised him that since
the repairs required were not extensive, I would return the next day to
ensure the work had been done. Upon arrival the next day, the work had not been completed and the owner stated he had other things to do. I advised him that this is a life safety issue and is a chargeable offence under the Fire Code of which I had the authority to charge him immediately yesterday. I said that I would return tomorrow and if the work was not done, charges would be laid against him. Upon arrival the next day, the work had still not been completed and the owner did not seem concerned. I advised him that I was starting legal proceedings and he would be charged for violations with the Ontario Fire Code. |
|
| Evidence |
Attached to my report are my inspection
notices as well as dated photographs of the exit signs that are in
violation. Also included is a sworn statement from Lorraine Wright, the
original complainant from apartment 306, stating she has told the owner
about the signs several times and that she finally called the fire
department because repairs were not done. |
|
| Legal
|
Part VII, Offences and Enforcement Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997 Section 2.7.3.1. Ontario Fire Code O. Reg. 213/07 The penalty as noted in the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, Part VII, Section 28, Subsection 3 (b). An individual convicted of an offence for contravention of the fire code, a fine of not more than $50,000 or imprisonment for a term of not more than one year, or both. Prepared on: January 30, 2008 Prepared by: Mary Smith, Fire Prevention Officer Little Town Fire and Emergency Services 45 Oak Avenue Little Town, ON L0S 2J2 Prepared for: Robert King, LAW Prosecutor 66 Maple Street Little Town, ON L0S 2J1 Signed: Mary Smith |
|
Performance objectives 03.16 Conducts and directs
salvage operations, 07.09 Determines the causes of the fire, 03.21 Directs or
arranges for securing of building, 07.07 Informs the Office of the Fire Marshal
in cases of fire death, large loss, gaseous explosion or arson, 07.01 Secures
fire scene, 07.01 Interviews witnesses…to gather information, 07.03 Inspects
fire scene, 07.05 Determines source of ignition, 07.07 Requests OFM
investigator, and 07.08 Assists OFM investigator
See Chapter Four for simulation suggestions on fire cause determination.
Performance objectives 07.06 Requests support
from external agencies, 03.12 Directs evacuation, 03.22 Arranges for well-being
of fire victims and building occupants, 03.14 Isolates the area/site, 06.01
Identifies hazardous material, 03.17 Evacuates emergency scene, 06.04 Determines
source of hazardous materials, 06.10 Notifies external agencies, 06.08 Prepares
hazardous material response report, 05.06 Notifies external agencies of
industrial accidents, and 05.05 Conducts and directs search for and rescue of
victims of industrial accidents
See Chapter Four for simulation suggestions on environmental hazards –
hazardous materials.
Performance objective 05.06 Notifies external
agencies of industrial accidents
Ensure that the candidate is aware of and references the department’s
SOGs/policies.
Performance Objective 08.01 Inspects personal
protective equipment and clothing of crew members
Company officers should be able to demonstrate this performance objective
in an actual setting. However, if simulation is used, present a crew member
wearing full personal protective equipment (PPE) with known deficiencies to the
company officer. Using a standardized evaluation sheet prepared as per
departmental SOGs, the company officer shall evaluate the PPE. The company
officer shall state and correct deficiencies based on his/her observations.
Reference Section 21 Guidelines – Section Four: Personal Protective Equipment.
Performance Objectives 08.15 Recognizes
individual crew member’s strengths and weaknesses, 08.17 Provides feedback to
crew member’s on performance and 05.21 Recognizes individual and crew
performance
To demonstrate these skills in a simulated situation, it would be
necessary for the company officer’s supervisor to create a video of specific
evolutions such as climbing a ground ladder, ensuring that both correct and
incorrect techniques are demonstrated in a safe manner.
Using standardized marking templates for each specific evolution, which were
created for this purpose, the company officer grades the performance of the
firefighter performing the evolution.
The supervisor/evaluator has a predetermined evaluation of the firefighter’s
performance against which the marks given by the company officer are compared.
Using an actual crewmember, the company officer shall conduct a coaching session
based on the evaluation of the evolution performed. Strengths and weaknesses
shall be identified with additional training needs discussed/negotiated.
Performance objective 08.21 Conducts annual
performance appraisals
Because a number of fire departments may not have annual appraisals,
supervisors may use a sample appraisal and development form. With a written,
detailed description of a firefighter, the candidate completes the form and
performs a mock interview with the firefighter.
It is suggested that supervisors involve the municipality’s Human Resources
Department.
Performance objective 09.01 Conducts post-fire
evaluations with emergency response crew
The only way to simulate this objective is to perform a post-fire
evaluation. Use the OFC post-incident form as a reference.
Performance objectives 10.13 Monitors
communication link with central dispatch and other station units, 01.03 Monitors
dispatch of equipment and information and 01.01 Documents incoming calls
To simulate these performance objectives, work in cooperation with the
Communication Centre to create a scripted audiotape simulating the dispatch of
fire apparatus to an occurrence. The company officer, from outside the fire
hall, shall receive the dispatch information, record the required information
enabling a response and accurately relay information to the fire crew.
Performance objective 02.07 Follows mutual aid
policies and procedures
Evaluate knowledge of the agreements through a case study with questions.
Ensure that the candidate can describe/explain the mutual aid policy and the
chain of command, and demonstrate how s/he fits in.
Create a tabletop simulation following specific mutual aid agreements within a
specific district.
Very few performance objectives in the Job Experience Requirement Demonstration of Competence to the Standards for the Training Officer Certification Program permit simulation. Those that do are straightforward or include a suggested simulation in the document.
02.05 Organizes presentations by guest speakers
If it isn’t possible to schedule a guest speaker for training, the candidate
could simulate this performance objective by arranging a speaker for another
fire department event, such as a fire hall opening.
05.01 Attends major incidents in accordance with
department policies
A tabletop exercise could be used to simulate this competency, if necessary.
05.07 Participates in recruit selection process
If simulated, a mock process would need to be set up as per the department’s
policies and procedures using such things as candidate résumés for review and
consideration, testing, interviews, scoring and discussions with the interview
team.
11.07 Reports accidents and personal injuries
This would be completed or simulated in accordance with department policies and
procedures, and WSIB regulations. If no accident has occurred, a mock scenario
would need to be created for the candidate to report.
Bernocco, S., Phillips, C., Jose, P., Yob, C., ‘Train in “The
Rule of Air Management”’ Fire Engineering, Tulsa OK,
Pennwell Publishing Co., April 2003, 57-66
Brown, Guy, ‘Growing Training for Growing Needs: The North Net Fire Training
Center’ Fire Engineering, Tulsa OK, Pennwell
Publishing Co., March 1997, 132-136
Browning, Barry, ‘Fire training & simulators for industry’
Industrial Fire Journal, Dorset, England, October 2005
Buerschen, Jeff P., ‘Economic Joint Training Facility Fire
Engineering, Tulsa OK, Pennwell Publishing Co., March 1994
Caron, Kenneth M., ‘Trailer as a Training Facility’ Fire
Engineering, Tulsa OK, Pennwell Publishing Co., March 1994, Vol. 147 No.
3, 116-118
Clark, Allen, ‘SCBA Confidence Course’ Fire Engineering,
Tulsa OK, Pennwell Publishing Co., January 1995
Cline, Douglas K., ‘Building and Using a Disentanglement Simulator’
The Voice, March 2003
Colletti, D. and Davis, Larry, ‘Outside the Box’ Fire Chief,
Chicago IL, July 2003, 38-44
Evans, John C., ‘The Bergen County Life Safety Complex Fire
Engineering, Tulsa OK, Pennwell Publishing Co., March 1991, 119-125
Halton, Robert and Nee, Ted, ‘Incident Simulations as a Training Tool
Fire Engineering, Tulsa OK, Pennwell Publishing Co.,
March 1999
Hollins, Leigh T., ‘Using Props, Simulators, and Mockups for More Realistic
Training’ Fire Engineering, Tulsa OK, Pennwell
Publishing Co., March 2003, 129-138
Mager, Robert F., Measuring Instructional Results, Third
Edition, USA, Library of Congress, 1997
Maher, Patrick T., Designing Emergency Scene Simulations
for Police and Fire Promotional Examinations, La Palma, Personnel and
Organization Development Consultants Inc., 1993
Meyers, C. and Jones, T.B., Promoting Active Learning
Strategies for the College Classroom, San Francisco, Jossey-Bass
Publishers, 1993
Ray, Shane, ‘Commanding the Mayday Part I: Training the Incident Commander’
The Instructor, International Society of Fire
Service Instructors (ISFSI), February 2004, 17-18
Schank, R., Virtual Learning A Revolutionary Approach to
Building a Highly Skilled Workforce, Toronto, McGraw-Hill, 1997
Sendelback, Timothy E., ‘Search Line Survival Training’ The
Voice, July/Augus