Structural Search and Rescue Procedures

• A rescue team will be formed, as personnel permits, and will be responsible for the primary search of the building.
• The members will enter the building wearing the proper level of PPE.
• A line officer will determine the search process to be used in the structure.
• Primary search of the structure shall be conducted in the following order, unless conditions dictate otherwise:
  • Immediate fire area
  • Floor above the fire
  • Uppermost floor, then work your way down
  • Other exposed areas
• The RIT team will not be used to deploy hose lines unless it is absolutely necessary.
• Status of the search will be reported to the INCIDENT COMMAND in a timely manner.
• A report of “All Clear”shall be transmitted on the air when all victims have been removed or a thorough search completed.
• When appropriate interior ventilation will begin as rescue team conducts search.
• Exterior ventilation will be accomplished as a support function.

April 2001