M.A.B.A.S. Division 20 Operational Guidelines, Procedures and Policies - 13

SUBJECT: CHANGE OF QUARTERS

DATE IMPLEMENTED: JANUARY 1, 1993 REVISED:

PURPOSE: To provide MABAS Division 20 fire department vehicles with a safe , when changing quarters to a stricken community request.

INTRODUCTION

When a stricken community has committed all of its resources to the scene of an emergency incident, a change-of-quarters company can be requested. The method of response should be such to eliminate or reduce injury or loss of life to both fire fighters and civilians as well as damage to emergency fire apparatus.

BACKGROUND

Annually, many fire fighters are injured and several are killed while responding to and from the scene of an incident. The emotional trauma endured by the family and fire department members have long-lasting and even permanent affects. Even the public image of the fire department can be damaged.

These accidents translate into millions of dollars of compensation and over-time costs for fire department personnel. Likewise, with the cost of fire apparatus ranging between $150,000 and $600,000, the monetary burden placed on a fire department can be overwhelming.

PROCEDURE

When responding to a change of quarters, the requested company will respond without lights and sirens. The vehicle will obey all normal traffic regulations while traveling to their destination.

In the event command determines the next level alarm should be struck, the responding change-of-quarters company will respond as an emergency vehicle. The company will adhere to all safety precautions and emergency response procedures in accordance with their departmental guidelines. At no time should the emergency response jeopardize the lives of fire fighters or civilians.

Fire departments should realize the normal travel times of the change-of-quarters company when developing box cards.