M.A.B.A.S. Division 20 Operational Guidelines, Procedures and Policies - 23

SUBJECT: PLANS OFFICER

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DATE IMPLEMENTED: DECEMBER 1, 1996 REVISED:

PURPOSE: To provide the Incident Commander (Command) with a sector officer to assist with the efficient implementation and control of the emergency scene management system.

INTRODUCTION

During a MABAS extra alarm incident, Command can be overwhelmed with responsibilities and decision making. The Plans Officer will alleviate some of the burden of Command by reducing the span of control.

BACKGROUND

During a MABAS extra alarm incident, several fire department companies will be

functioning at the scene. It is the Incident Commander's responsibility to develop strategies and assign the tasks to accomplish tactics. While this process occurs, it will be necessary for command to communicate with NORCOMM and coordinate the activities of outside agencies.

PLANS OFFICER RESPONSIBILITIES

The Plans Officer (PO) will be designated on a MABAS second alarm level and be assigned to the Command Van.

The Plans Officer will:

· establish the command post location

· oversee the functions of the command vehicle

· sustain a radio communication link between Command and NORCOMM

· monitor all radio pertinent traffic on NIFERN, fire frequency and MERCI

· communicate with Command on the fire ground frequency

· coordinate the activities of outside agencies when they arrive on the scene

· track the location of companies on the scene and in staging

· identify specialized equipment carried on fire department vehicles

· procure resources requested by the Incident commander

· provide weather updates as needed

· establish a buffer between the Incident Commander and all unassigned non-fire department personnel

· establish a telephone communication link when requested

· perform other duties as assigned

· appoint an aide(s) if necessary

· provide water supply information

· perform other tasks as assigned by the Incident Commander

M.A.B.A.S. Division 20 Operational Guidelines, Procedures and Policies - 24

SUBJECT: PLANS OFFICER

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The designation of the Plans Officer will be determined by the Incident Commander. Command may choose to handle any or all of the responsibilities listed above and not appoint a Plans Officer.