Large area search bag “Group Search system”

Scappoose Fire District 2008

Objectives: When to implement the use of the Large

Area Search bags. How to use the Large Area Search bags. Location of the Large Area Search bags. Discussing regional use of the bags.

Where to use the Search bags

Commercial buildings Apartment Complexes Large Homes Assisted living centers RIT activation

Search Bag Locations E-431, E-433, E-435 and T-431 all have

search bags. Search bags on the engines are located

with the RIT packs. Search bag on the truck is located on the

drivers side rear compartment.

Parts of the Search Bag System Primary Line

-200 Feet of 9.5mm Kevlar rope heat rated to 862 degrees F.-Rings placed every 20 feet.-Each knot represents 20 feet,1 knot = 20’, 2 = 40’, 3 = 60’ ect.

Tag Lines-25 feet of 3/8 inch flat Kevlar rope.-3 tag line bags per kit.

Parts of the Search Team ICS (have in place before deployment of

search team). Anchor Man Dogs Equipment Communications

Role of the Anchor Man Anchor man

-Acts as the team leader, usually an officer.-Is in control of the Primary Search line.-Communicates findings to command and gives updates.-keeps primary search line taught.-Continuously assesses interior fire behavior and conditions.-Counts out main search line to monitor travel depth into building or area.-PAR of exiting personnel to ensure all have excited.

Anchor Man

Role of the Dogs Dogs

-Search for victims.-Usually two people, one tag line per person. A third tag line is provided if three dogs are needed.-Communicates findings to the Anchor man.-Carefully but speedily coil cord onto hand to allow for quick payout a the next lateral.

Dogs

Equipment TIC (anchor man duties)

-Look high: thermal balance, structural integrity.-Look Middle: thermal balance, alternative exits, obstacles.-Look low: floor integrity, victims, obstacles

More equipment Lighting

-Light the entry way for search team to exit out of.

Ventilation-Ventilate the area being searched.

Tools-Have forcible entry / exit tools for the search team available.

Communications Good communication is key to a successful

and rapid search. Speak clearly, and slowly. Report all findings to command.

Regional Use of the Search Bags Multnomah, Clark, Washington and Columbia

counties have through a joint decision decided to implement the rope search line system and have standardization throughout the organizations. Meaning everyone uses the same equipment in the same way.