rockbridge regional public safety communications center
TRANSCRIPT
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE Subject: TABLE OF CONTENTS Effective Date: Last Revision Date: Signature of Approval:
INTRODUCTION COMM 1 Pages 2-3
LETTER OF ENDORSMENT COMM 2 Page 4
COMM 3 Page 5
FIRE AND EMS APPARATUS COMM 4 Pages 6-8
DISASTER TRAILER COMM 5 Page 9
DEFINITIONS COMM 6 Pages 10-17
PHONETIC ALPHABET COMM 7 Page 18
GENERAL PROCEDURES COMM 8 Pages 19-21
ALERT TONES COMM 9 Pages 22-23
FAILURE TO RESPOND COMM 10 Page 24
TEST TONES COMM 11 Page 25
TELEPHONE TECHNIQUES COMM 12 Pages 26-34
RADIO PROCEDURES COMM 13 Pages 35-36
ACTIVATION OF PAGERS COMM 14 Pages 37-39
FIRST RESPONDER PAGING PROCEDURES COMM 15 Page 40
EMS RESPONSE PROCEDURES COMM 16.a Pages 41-42
FIRE PAGING PROCEDURES COMM 16.b Page 43
TREE DOWN COMM 17 Page 44
HEART / STROKE ALERTS COMM 18 Page 45
STRUCTURE FIRE PAGING PROCEDURES COMM 19.a Page 46
WORKING INCIDENT COMM 19.b Pages 47-48
CHIMNEY FIRE COMM 19.c Page 49
VEHICLE INTO STRUCTURE COMM 19.d Page 50
TANKER TASK FORCE COMM 20 Page 51
FIRE EMS SERVICE CALLS & STANDBYS COMM 21 Page 52
STATION TRANSFER COMM 22 Page 53
N/A COMM 23
LADDER/TRUCK COMPANY PAGING
PROCEDURES
COMM 24 Page 54
OPERATIONAL TALKGROUPS COMM 25 Page 55
LANDING ZONES COMM 26 Page 56
COMM 27 Page 57
MAYDAY FIREFIGHTER DOWN COMM 28 Page 58
N/A COMM 29
SWIFT WATER RESCUE TEAM COMM 30 Page 59
DUTY OFFICER COMM 31 Pages 60-61
COMM 32 Page 62
CALL TYPES COMM 33 Pages 63-67
MODIFIED RESPONSE COMM 34 Page 68
INTERSTATE 81 COMM 35.a Pages 69-70
INTERSTATE 64 COMM 35.b Pages 71-72
EMS STAFFING LEVEL COMM 36.a Page 73
MEDIC/ALS ASSISTS COMM 36.b Page 74
BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY COMM 37 Pages 75-76
FIRE EMS LAST CALL COMM 38 Page 77
DISABLED EMERGENCY VEHICLES COMM 39 Page 78
FIRE/RESCUE ANNOUNCE COMM 40 Page 79
MCI PLAN SUPPLEMENTAL 5 pages
Page 1
FIRE AND EMS DEPARTMENTS
EVACUATION SIGNAL
TORNADO WARNING
7-15-21
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE Subject: INTRODUCTION
Number: COMM 1
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 4-20-21
Signature of Approval:
PURPOSE
To provide the best level of service possible Rockbridge Regional Public Safety
Communications Center will operate using a set of standard operating procedures.
EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE
Each employee cannot be expected to determine the best method of handling different
types of calls. Current laws, court decisions and the standard of care in the community
have been considered in establishing these procedures.
CONSISTENCY
Callers to 9-1-1 and emergency response agencies should receive the same level of
service delivered in a consistent manner. Service delivery must not vary substantially
between employees and/or shift.
KNOWLEDGE OF PROCEDURES
Each employee should study these SOPs to ensure their ability to properly apply them. If
an employee does not comprehend a procedure, they should ask their supervisor for
clarification and explanation.
IDENTIFICATION OF NEEDED PROCEDURES OR CHANGES
Employees should notify the Supervisor when they perceive that a new procedure is
needed or that existing procedures need modification. The Supervisor should be notified
when:
• Verbal orders are necessary on a regular basis.
• A situation that is not outlined by SOP.
• Adherence to SOP is creating difficulties in operations.
The request for the policy modification should then be submitted, in writing, to the
Director so it may be discussed at the next Fire/Rescue subcommittee meeting.
Page 2
CHANGING OR ESTABLISHING PROCEDURES
The creation, amendment or deletion of Fire/EMS policies/procedures will be discussed
in the 911 board appointed subcommittee. Once the subcommittee reviews the proposed
policy it is then brought to the 911 board for approval. Once the 911 board approves the
policy as written, the Director shall:
• Email all employees of the policy change.
• Upload the policy to the ECC file repository.
• Instruct supervisors to update or replace the existing hard copy of the policy in the
station SOP manual.
MAINTENANCE OF SOP MANUALS
• Each employee is responsible for maintaining their personal copy of the SOP
manual by inserting/adding the revisions as they are issued.
• A current copy of the SOP manual will be kept at each dispatcher station for
reference. That copy will be maintained by the Supervisor.
NOTE
ECC PERSONNEL HAVE THE RIGHT TO OVERRIDE STANDARD
OPERATING PROCEDURES IN THE EVENT OF THREATS TO
LIFE SAFETY OR EXTENUATING CIRCUMSTANCES. THE
SUPERVISOR WILL BE NOTIFIED IF THIS OCCURS.
Page 3
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE Subject: LETTER OF ENDORSEMENT
Number: COMM 2
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 4-22-21
Signature of Approval:
LETTER OF ENDORSEMENT
The enclosed radio procedures are established to ensure safe, efficient, and effective radio communications.
Responder safety is a high priority in all Fire & EMS radio communications. Without proper discipline and
control, radio communications can quickly deteriorate to a level of confusion and frustration.
All Rockbridge County Fire EMS Chiefs, Captains, and the Rockbridge Emergency Communications Center
endorse the enclosed radio procedures. All radio operators (dispatchers, responders, and agents) are required to
study, practice the rules and protocols contained herein.
The Fire & EMS Radio Procedures Manual was approved by the 911 Operations Board and is endorsed by the
Chiefs and Officers of the following agencies (signatures on file): .
Chief/Captain Fire/EMS Department Signature
Mac Clemmer Effinger Fire EMS
John Hill Glasgow Fire
Mike Jolly Goshen Fire
Stacey Ruley Kerrs Creek Fire EMS
Nathan Ramsey Rockbridge County Fire EMS
Melvin Bauernfeind Rockbridge Baths Fire EMS
Ben Wilmer South River Fire EMS
Ty Dickerson Lexington Fire EMS
John Rowsey Buena Vista Fire EMS
Everett Smith Natural Bridge Fire EMS
Brian Brooks Raphine Fire EMS
Colby Irvine Walkers Creek Fire EMS
Kathlyn Beverly Buena Vista EMS
Sherri Wilcox Glasgow EMS
Linda Arnold Goshen EMS
Donnie McBrayer VMI EMS
Steve Reese Fairfield EMS
Page 4
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE Subject: FIRE & EMS DEPARTMENTS
Number: COMM 3
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 2-17-21
Signature of Approval:
ROCKBRIDGE COUNTY FIRE EMS DEPARTMENTS
Fire Departments
* Denotes First Responder Capability
EMS Agencies
* Denotes First Responder Capability
Company 1 Effinger Volunteer Fire Dept
Company 2 Glasgow Volunteer Fire Dept
Company 3 Goshen Volunteer Fire Dept
Company 4 Kerrs Creek Fire EMS Dept
Company 5 Rockbridge County Fire Rescue
Company 6 Rockbridge Baths Volunteer Fire Dept*
Company 7 South River District Volunteer Fire Dept*
Company 9 Lexington Fire Dept
Company 10 Buena Vista Fire Dept*
Company 11 Natural Bridge Volunteer Fire Dept*
Company 12 Raphine Volunteer Fire Company*
Company 80 Walkers Creek Volunteer Fire Dept*
Company 1 EMS Effinger Volunteer Fire Dept
Rescue 1 Lexington Fire Dept
Rescue 2 Buena Vista Rescue Squad
Rescue 3 Glasgow Life Saving and First Aid Crew
Rescue 4 Kerrs Creek Fire EMS Dept
Rescue 13 Goshen First Aid Crew
Response 14 Virginia Military Institute EMS*
Rescue 17 Fairfield Rescue Squad
Page 5
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE Subject: FIRE DEPARTMENT APPARATUS
Number: COMM 4
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 5-3-21
Signature of Approval:
Fire Department Specialty Vehicles
The following are Fire Departments who have Specialty Vehicles in Rockbridge County.
Tankers
Capacity
Effinger Fire Co. 1 Tanker 1 3,000 gal
Glasgow Fire Co. 2 Tanker 2 3,000 gal
Kerrs Creek Co. 4 Tanker 4 3,000 gal
Rockbridge Baths Fire Co. 6 Tanker 6 1,250 gal
South River Fire Co. 7 Tanker 72 2,500 gal
Buena Vista Fire Co. 10 Tanker 106 2,000 gal
Natural Bridge Fire Co.11 Tanker 11 2,000 gal
Raphine Fire Co.12 Tanker 126 3,000 gal
Walkers Creek Fire Co.80 Tanker 80 1,500 gal
Aerials
Capacity
Glasgow Fire Co.2 Ladder 2 300 gal
Lexington Fire Co. 9 Truck 9 300 gal
Buena Vista Fire Co.10 Ladder 10 500 gal
Augusta County Truck 106 300 gal
Augusta County Truck 11 300 gal
City of Staunton Ladder 1 70 gal CAFS
Page 6
Specialty
TAC-2 22’ crane
Welder generator
Air compressor
Ocean Aid Rescue Boat
Tech Rescue Equipment
Utility 2 Snow Plow
100 gallon diesel tank with pump
Snow Plow
Suppression 80 4 wheel drive
Seats 3 personnel
500 gallon water tank
Company 9 Cascade Trailer
Riverheads Attack 251 Wildland Fire Apparatus with Cascade
System
Staunton Fire Squad 8 Cascade system
Hazmat materials/Tech Rescue
Rope Rescue/Water Rescue Equipment
Structural Collapse equipment
Rough Terrain Vehicles
Glasgow Fire Co.2 RAV 2*
Tracks
Seats 5 personnel
100 gallon water tank
Rockbridge Baths Fire Co.6 RTV 6*
Seats 2 personnel
85 gallon water tank
2 gallon foam tank
100’ forestry hose
Drafting hose
Chain saw
Leaf blower
2 fire rakes
2 fire brooms
Page 7
South River Fire Co.7 RTV 7*
Seats 3
55 gallon water tank
6.5HP high pressure pump
100’ ¾” booster hose reel
200’ 1” forestry hose/nozzle
100’ 1 ¾” fire hose/nozzle
Chain Saw
Rakes
Pulaski Tool
4000lb winch
Bolt Cutters
Gated Wye
Buena Vista Fire Co.10 ATV 10*
Seats 3 personnel
25 gallon water tank
Walker’s Creek Fire Co.80 ATV 80 Seats 2 personnel
55 gallon water tank
200 psi high pressure pump
100’ of ½” booster hose and reel
2 forestry rakes
2 emergency shelters
1 pulaski tool
Winch
Staunton Fire ATV 1* Seats 3 personnel
65 gallon water tank
Fire pump
200’ 1” forestry hose
* Patient moving capable
Swift Water
Company 2 Boat 2A
Boat 2B
Otter 2
Misc swift water equipment
Company 6 Otter 6
Company 10 Zodiac Boat x2
Otter 10
Staunton Fire Boat 1 (Otter)
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: DISASTER TRAILER
Number: COMM 5
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 4-20-21
Signature of Approval:
DISASTER TRAILER
PURPOSE - To provide additional medical resources in the event of a
Mass Causality event.
The disaster trailer is to be AUTOMATICALLY dispatched on the following incidents:
• Passenger Train Derailment
• Aircraft Accidents
• MCI
Otherwise the Disaster Trailer is available upon request.
Resources of the Disaster Trailer include, but are not limited to:
• Oxygen Cylinders & Equipment
• 2 – oxygen equipment bags
• 8 First Aid Kits (4 backpack & 4 shoulder)
• Multiple sizes of sterile dressings & roller gauze
• Triage Equipment
• Flashlights
• 20 Backboards & equipment
• Patient Stabilizing Equipment
• Blankets, Pillows, Towels, & Sheets
• Includes a mounted gas-powered generator mounted on the front of the trailer
The Disaster Trailer shall be housed at Fairfield Rescue, and unit number will be MCU17.
CURRENTLY RESCUE 17 SHALL BE TONED FOR THE RESPONSE OF THE DISASTER
TRAILER.
The Disaster Trailer is to be response checked at 6 minutes and the next closest Fire or EMS
Department shall be toned at 8 minutes unless someone advises that they are en route to get the
trailer.
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: DEFINITIONS
Number: COMM 6
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 4-22-21
Signature of Approval:
DEFINITIONS
Abandon To immediately exit the building or area due to
safety concerns for emergency personnel, without
regard to equipment or hose lines left in place.
Accountability Tags Tags identifying a person used for tracking
purposes.
Advise To give or provide information.
Affirmative Yes or ok.
Air Medical Services Air transportation to move patients to and from
healthcare facilities to improve their level of care.
Alarm/Box Alarm The predetermined initial response assignment for
a given type of incident.
First Alarm – 3 Fire Depts & 1 EMS
Second Alarm – 6 Fire Depts & 2 EMS
Third Alarm – 9 Fire Depts & 3 EMS
Fourth Alarm – 12 Fire Depts. & 4 EMS
Aerial A fire apparatus equipped with an aerial ladder,
elevating platform, or water way that is designed
and equipped to support firefighting and rescue
operations by position personnel, handling
materials, providing continuous egress, or
discharging water at positions elevated from the
ground.
ALS Advanced Life Support.
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Area Command An organization established to oversee the
management of multiple incidents that are each
being handled by a separate Incident Command
System organization or to oversee the
management of a very large or evolving incident
that has multiple incident management teams
engaged. An agency administrator/executive or
other public official with jurisdictional
responsibility for the incident usually makes the
decision to establish an Area Command. An Area
Command is activated only if necessary,
depending on the complexity of the incident and
incident management span-of-control
considerations.
Arriving Alternative term for on scene/on location
Assigned Performing an active assignment.
Available Ready for an assignment.
BLS Basic Life Support.
BP Blood Pressure.
Branch The organizational level having functional or
geographical responsibility for major aspects of
incident operations. A Branch is organizationally
situated between the Section Chief and the
Division or Group in the Operations Section, and
between the Section and Units in the Logistics
Section. Branches are usually identified by a
functional area.
Break End of transmission, beginning of another.
Cancel Canceling the response of units dispatched to an
alarm and returning them to available status.
Chain of Command A series of command, control, executive, or
management positions in order of authority.
Clear Remove unit from an incident in the CAD
CHF Congestive Heart Failure.
(name) Command Call sign for incident commander where (name)
is usually related to the location of an incident.
Command Post Where the incident commander is located during
a incident.
Common Terminology No 10-codes or signals. Normally used words and
phrases-avoids the use of different words/phrases
for same concepts, consistency.
Confined Space Space with limited means of egress which is
subject to the accumulation of toxic or flammable
contaminated or oxygen deficient atmosphere.
Confirm Check to make sure and advise.
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CVA Cardiovascular Accident – Stroke.
Division To divide the incident into geographical areas of
operation. Divisions established for structural
assignments are usually referred to as 1, 2, 3, and
so on. For example the ground floor of a building
is referred to as division 1, the second floor is
referred to as division 2. Below ground levels are
referred to as subdivision’s For example the
basement is referred to as subdivision 1. If there
are more basement levels, they would be referred
to as subdivision 2, subdivision 3 and so on.
Divisions established for wildland incidents are
usually referred to as north, south, east, and west.
DOA Dead on arrival.
Disregard Last transmission does not apply to you.
EMD Emergency Medical Dispatch.
Emergency Operations Center The physical location at which the coordination
of information and resources to support incident
management (on-scene operations) activities
normally takes place. An EOC may be a
temporary facility or may be located in a more
central or permanently established facility.
Emergency Traffic Use to inform units there is an ongoing
emergency and not to interrupt unless there is
another emergency.
Engine A fire apparatus with a pump capable of flowing
at least 750 gallons per minute, as well as all
other required equipment per NFPA 1901
Engine Company A fire apparatus with a pump capable of flowing
at least 750 gallons per minute, as well as all
other required equipment per NFPA 1901, and
minimum of three (3) Entry level firefighters.
En Route Used to indicate that a unit(s) is responding to an
incident in non-emergency mode.
ETA Estimated time of arrival.
ETOH Intoxicated subject, has been drinking admittedly
or has alcohol on breath.
Evacuate To exit the building or area, due to change in
strategy (i.e offensive to defensive; interior to
exterior).
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Group Established to divide the incident management
structure into functional areas of operation.
Groups are composed of resources assembled to
perform a special function not necessarily within
a single geographic division. Groups, when
activated, are located between Branches and
resources in the Operations Section.
IDLH Immediate Danger to Life or Health
Incident Action Plan An oral or written plan containing incident
objectives reflecting the overall strategy for
managing an incident.
Incident Command The individual responsible for all incident
activities, including the development of strategies
and tactics and the ordering and the release of
resources. The IC has overall authority and
responsibility for conducting incident operations
and is responsible for the management of all
incident operations at the incident site.
Incident Command Post The field location where the primary functions or
command are performed. The ICP may be co-
located with the incident base or other incident
facilities.
In Quarters To be used by units when they are back at their
station.
In Service Units are available to respond to an incident.
In Service, Returning To be used when returning from an incident, and
are available for the next incident
Lay-In (Forward Lay) When a fire apparatus is to lay supply line from a
water source to the incident
Lay-Out (Reverse Lay) When a fire apparatus is to lay supply line from
the incident to a water source
Level 1 staging Refers to apparatus and personnel staging at the
incident scene
Level 2 staging Refers to apparatus and personnel staging at a
central location, not at the incident scene.
Liaison The contact person for assisting or coordinating
with other agencies. A member of the command
staff.
Lock-Out Using a lock to secure in the off position any
switches, valves, dampers, & power sources, etc.
Logistics Responsible for providing facilities, services and
materials for the incident.
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Mayday Firefighter lost or trapped or missing inside of a
structure. The person making the initial call may
or may not be an officer or IC, as personnel inside
may be the ones to make the initial call.
Medic Response Emergency medical response requiring a Medic
response (Intermediate or Paramedic).
Medic Unit ALS ground ambulance staffed by at least one
EMT-Intermediate or Paramedic and EMT-B.
Negative No.
National Incident Management System
(NIMS)
Nationally recognized method of management
system of an incident.
Officer In Charge (OIC) A supervisory position in the fire service. Usually
responsible for a specific apparatus.
On Scene Arrived at the scene.
On The Air Units/apparatus is on the air and available to
respond to an incident.
Operations Section Chief Responsible for all tactical operations.
Out of service, Returning To be used when returning from an incident, but
are unavailable for another incident.
Overdose Poisoning.
Passing Command A situation where the first arriving unit provides a
scene size-up, does not establish command
allowing the next arriving fire officer to establish
command, once on scene.
Planning Section Chief Responsible for the collection, evaluation,
dissemination, and use of information about the
development of the incident and status of
resources.
Portable Radio Hand Held Radio.
Proceed Refers to traveling non emergent to service calls.
Primary Search Conducted quickly and during the initial
operational stages to include all involved and
exposed occupancies.
Progress Report Report made by incident command to ECC to
record/report on progress of an incident.
Primary All Clear – primary search complete
Secondary All Clear – secondary search
complete. Conducting after initial fire control
activities have been completed
Under Control – Situation under control, assigned
resources can handle
P.A.R – Personnel Accountability Report, all
personnel on scene are accounted for
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Public Information Officer (PIO) A member of the Command Staff responsible for
interfacing with the public and media and/or with
other agencies with incident-related information.
Radio ID Radio name or number, identifying a
person/agency.
Rescue Unit BLS ground ambulance staffed by at least one
EMT-Basic and driver.
Received Informational message understood.
Rehab Rehab sector is implemented when the incident
commander judges the environment, work load,
and/or atmospheric temperatures indicates the
probability of injury or temperature related illness
to personnel (i.e working fire, hazmat incident,
etc.).
Rekindle Refers to a fire that was not completely
extinguished the first time.
Relay Repeat a radio message from one unit to another.
Report Verbal indication of the status of an incident or
unit.
Response Apparatus or personnel respond to an incident.
Response Check Conducted 6 minutes after the initial dispatch if
the department or agency has not responded.
Responding Used to indicate that a unit(s) is responding to an
incident in emergency mode.
RIC/RIT Rapid Intervention Crew/Team is initiated when
an incident commander determines it is necessary
to engage personnel in hazardous circumstances.
A crew of at least two firefighters that is
dedicated solely to the search and rescue of other
firefighters in distress. initiated when an incident
commander determines it is necessary to engage
personnel in hazardous circumstances.
Safety Officer Responsible for monitoring and assessing safety
hazards, unsafe situations, and developing
measures for insuring personnel safety.
SCBA Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus.
Secured Scene. When law enforcement perceives the scene is
relatively safe for emergency personnel
Seizure The physical findings or changes in behavior that
occur after an episode of abnormal electrical
activity in the brain.
Size Up The evaluation of an incident. ECC shall repeat
back the size up
SOB Shortness Of Breath.
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Staging The area or location where personnel and/or
equipment are assigned away from the scene, but
are available during an incident.
Stand By Wait; hold your present position, assignment or
radio traffic.
Status The condition, assignment, or availability of
personnel or equipment.
STEMI ST-elevated myocardial infarction – heart attack
Strike Team A set number of resources of the same kind and
type that have an established minimum number of
personnel, common communications, and a
leader.
Syncope Temporary loss of consciousness usually caused
by a fall in blood pressure.
Talk Group Formerly known a radio frequency and/or channel
Tanker A mobile fire apparatus equipped with a 1000
gallon or greater water tank, and a pump capable
of flowing 750 gallons per minute, as well as the
other required NFPA 1901 equipment.
Task Force Any combination of resources assembled to
support a specific mission or operational need.
All resource elements within a Task Force must
have common communications and a designated
leader.
Team 2 or more firefighters/task oriented.
TIC Thermal Imaging Camera
Transferring/Fill Quarters Units/apparatus is moving to another station for a
fill quarters assignment.
Transmission The sending of the radio message on the text of
the message itself.
Transporting To be used by EMS when transporting a patient
to the hospital. Always advise which facility you
are transporting to.
Trauma Unit Ground ambulance staffed by at least one EMT-
Advanced Provider and EMT-B.
Triage Process of sorting multiple patient’s needs, kind
of illness or injury, severity of the problem, and
facilities available to handle them.
Unit Any piece or group of apparatus.
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Unified Command An Incident Command System used when more
than one agency has incident jurisdiction or when
incidents cross political jurisdictions. Agencies
work together through the designated members of
the UC, often the senior person from agencies
and/or disciplines participating in the UC, to
establish a common set of objectives and
strategies and a single Incident Action Plan.
Unsecured Scene A location in which a violent or potential violent
incident has occurred and the situation has not
been brought safely under control by law
enforcement.
Working Incident Active incident in progress requiring the
assignment of resources for an extended period. –
Reference Comms 29
Page 17
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: PHONETIC ALPHABET
Number: COMM 7
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 2-17-21
Signature of Approval:
PHONETIC ALPHABET
A ADAM ALPHA
B BOY BRAVO
C CHARLIE CHARLIE
D DAVID DELTA
E EDWARD ECHO
F FRANK FOXTROT
G GEORGE GOLF
H HENRY HOTEL
I IDA INDIA
J JOHN JULIET
K KING KILO
L LINCOLN LIMA
M MARY MIKE
N NORA NOVEMBER
O OCEAN OSCAR
P PAUL PAPA
Q QUEEN QUEBEC
R ROBERT ROMEO
S SAM SIERRA
T TOM TANGO
U UNION UNIFORM
V VICTOR VICTOR
W WILLIAM WHISKEY
X XRAY XRAY
Y YOUNG YANKEE
Z ZEBRA ZULU
Page 18
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: GENERAL PROCEDURES
Number: COMM 8
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 2-17-21
Signature of Approval:
It is the policy of Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center to provide
the most effective link possible between the caller, the dispatcher, and the emergency
responders.
The following procedures will be used for communications on the Rockbridge County
Fire/Rescue frequencies. Fire and EMS Departments use these County wide frequencies for
paging and general communications.
GENERAL PROCEDURES
All communications will be in plain English without use of l0-Codes
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center will be referred to as "ECC".
During 2-way communications, the unit being called should be addressed first and the
person calling should identify themselves last. (EXAMPLE- Dispatch Calls Engine 71:
"Engine 71, ECC". This should help quickly get the attention of the unit that is being
called.
It is not necessary for units to call ECC and wait for an acknowledgment before giving
their message. The message may be given on field unit’s initial call to ECC. If the
dispatcher does not respond to the field unit after 30 seconds, units should call, wait for
acknowledgement, and repeat their message.
Dispatch will repeat primary radio traffic from a field unit when possible.
Dispatch will provide support to members such as requests for utility companies or
mutual aid.
Communications among department personnel must be conducted on non-operational
talkgroups (i.e. dept private), whenever possible.
Dispatch will announce the time after each call and test transmission.
Page 19
ECC will provide incident details and cross streets to the first responding apparatus from
each Department that has been placed on an assignment. Additional responding
apparatus from the same Departments will be acknowledged with the time. ECC will
provide incident details if requested by the additional responding apparatus. Responding
units should indicate which incident is being responded to if more than one is current.
Individual members other than Chief Officers responding should not indicate their
response to ECC.
When multiple units are returning at the same time the OIC of each Department shall
mark all Company (number) units returning. OIC’s of each Department should do the
same upon returning to quarters. When multiple units are responding on the same
assignment and the situation is marked under control, units on scene can handle and there
are still units responding ECC shall activate the TEST ALERT for 3 seconds, repeat what
command has advised and advise units to stand by for acknowledgement on the
operational frequency, then call each unit number and give a time once all units have
been acknowledged.
EXAMPLE: Companies 10, 2, 9 & Rescue 2 are responding to a Structure Fire at 306 Park Ave. Engine 107, Tanker 106, Ladder 10, Engine 92, & Medic 22 are on scene, Truck 2 & Tanker 2 are still responding. Command advises ECC that the situation is under control, units on scene can handle, holding all units on scene for an undetermined amount of time, all other units can return to service.
o ECC will respond using the following procedure:
1. Activate TEST ALERT for 3 seconds.
2. Park Ave Command advising situation under control, holding
units on scene for an undetermined amount of time, responding
units can go in service. Responding unit’s standby for
acknowledgement on Ops Channel.
3. ECC then will do a roll call on Ops channel.
4. Truck 2, wait for them to acknowledge, Tanker 2, wait for
them to acknowledge, & then ECC will say all units in service
returning at 0446.
Incident Command will report to ECC when the situation is under control. ECC will use
TEST ALERT for 3 seconds and repeat the Incident Command name, message, and time.
It shall NOT be necessary to notify ECC when going for water or fuel. Units may mark
“On The Air” while away from their stations if available for calls. When this occurs no
documentation will occur, just a time will be given.
Page 20
Rockbridge ECC will notify and/or transfer to VASP for vehicle accidents on any
roadway in the county or any Fire EMS incidents on the Interstates. ECC will provide an
ETA of VASP if available, units are not to ask.
When a request is made for EMS only on an accident ECC will send Fire and EMS as a
safety precaution.
ECC will contact Air Medical Services and perform availability checks (1st-4th due) for
all priority calls. Units will be advised of Air Medical status.
ECC will assign an operational talkgroups to all incidents. Fire EMS personnel can ask
for a different operational talkgroups due to geographical terrain.
If a Fire Department advises ECC that they are using a large quantity of water via
hydrant, ECC personnel will notify the Public Service Authority.
At the completion of all calls ECC shall send incident summaries to the appropriate
departments. Units are NOT to be cleared from an incident until they mark in quarters
unless they advise to clear them from the call/CAD.
ECC shall advise Fire EMS units when they respond if a scene is unsafe and advise them
to stage until the arrival of Law Enforcement.
ECC may advise units to conduct “emergency traffic only.” During this time NO
OTHER transmission shall be made unless it is an EMERGENCY. During this time,
units with emergency traffic should state the following and wait for a response from ECC
– “ECC Wagon 4 Emergency Traffic.” Marking on scene or returning is NOT
considered emergency traffic.
The receiving hospital and local Law Enforcement will be notified of all incidents when
there is a reason to suspect emotions will be high and involved parties may be following
patients to the Emergency Room.
Status Checks for Fire EMS
When Fire EMS units are on scene of an incident ECC shall conduct “Status Checks”
every 15 minutes. ECC shall discontinue Status Checks when units on scene advise, “NO
NEED FOR FURTHER STATUS CHECK’S” or the IC has marked the “SITUATION
UNDER CONTROL.”
If ECC performs 3 Status Checks with no response, ECC shall send the appropriate Law
Enforcement to the scene of the incident.
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: ALERT TONES
Number: COMM 9
Effective Date: 6-1-20
Last Revision Date: 2-17-21
Signature of Approval:
ALERT TONES
Alert Tones are generated on the radio consoles at ECC. Each of these tones are activated when the
proper button is pressed by ECC personnel. These tones will be transmitted on the selected frequency.
ALERT TONE (ALERT) Continuous tone for at least 3 seconds.
Uses of this tone are as follows:
• Cancel responding apparatus
• Mark situations under control
• Get the attention of Incident Commander
• Give additional information on dispatched incidents
• Weather Alerts and other non-emergency statements
MAYDAY SIGNAL (WARBLE)– Reference Comm 28 Alternating High/Low Tone for at least 7 seconds.
Uses of this tone are as follows:
• Fire or Hazardous situations causing immediate danger and all personnel should evacuate the
area. The Incident Commander or the Safety Officer will make the determination of when
this alert is required.
EXAMPLE
Mayday Signal (WARBLE) for 3 seconds continuously (on F/R Announce).
Announce that a MAYDAY has been declared at the scene (repeat the address of
the incident) and advise all units to restrict radio traffic on the talkgroup the
mayday was called on (i.e. OPS 1).
BUSY ALERT (PULSE) Beep tone for at least 3 seconds.
Uses of this tone are as follows:
• Indicates that a message has been received but a voice response is not practical. A voice
response will be made to field units as soon as possible.
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EVACUATION SIGNAL (C2) – Reference Comm 27 Tone should sound for greater than 3 seconds
Use of this tone are as follows:
• Imminent threat known to public safety workers
• Evacuation of a structure
EXAMPLE
EVACUATION SIGNAL (C2) for 5 seconds continuously (on F/R Announce)
Announce that an evacuation has been declared at the scene (repeat the address of the
incident), advise for all personnel to evacuate the structure and advise all units to restrict
radio traffic on affected talkgroup (i.e. OPS 1).
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: FAILURE TO RESPOND
Number: COMM 10
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: 4-22-21
Signature of Approval:
Failure To Respond
Failure to Responds are to be used when an agency is placed on an incident and a piece of
apparatus from that agency does not respond.
The following shall be used in placing a Failure To Respond on an agency:
• Any agency that is placed on an incident that does not respond after 16 minutes, will
receive a Failure to Respond.
• Any agency that is placed on an incident and responds between 10-16 minutes, will
receive a Delayed Response.
• Agencies covered during a station transfer/fill quarters shall not receive a Failure To
Respond
• Someone responding in a POV does not count as a response from the agency. Only if a
unit from the agency responds. This does not apply for driver requests from an EMS
agency. The apparatus responding should indicate whether they are using an assisting
driver, then the department requested will receive credit for the call being covered.
• If, an agency is on a multi-agency call, and they get a call and request another agency to
respond from the scene to the other call or divert to that call, it IS NOT a failure to
respond for the original agency they are out of resources and unable to respond
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: TEST TONES
Number: COMM 11
Effective Date: 6-1-20
Last Revision Date: 2-17-21
Signature of Approval:
TEST TONES
Test tones are to be performed each Monday at 1800 hours if call volume permits. Agencies will
be toned using the ALL PAGE function.
Testing will not be performed if there is an active incident unless the dispatcher obtains approval
from field units. Testing may also be delayed if deemed appropriate by the supervisor.
If ongoing incidents prohibit performing test tones through 1900 hours, the test will be canceled
and rescheduled for the next day. An alert expiring at 1800 the next day will be set in the CAD
to remind the next shift it needs to be completed.
Department Chiefs may request a pager test for their department, as needed, but not routinely
scheduled.
Non emergent requests for pages will not be made at any time unless the announcement is for
County Wide notification of canceled training, etc. For these announcements, ALL PAGE will
be used.
ECC will do a test of the MAYDAY SIGNAL, and the EVACUATION SIGNAL.
EXAMPLE OF TEST TONES
• Activation of ALL FIRE and ALL EMS page.
• Attention all Rockbridge County Fire & Rescue personnel, this is your weekly
pager test. Test the Mayday Signal (hold WARBLE for 3 seconds). Test the
Evacuation Signal (hold C2 for 5 seconds). **Special Announcements, if
applicable (list any special announcements)** This concludes the weekly
pager test.
• End with the current time.
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: TELEPHONE TECHNIQUES
Number: COMM 12
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 3-19-21
Signature of Approval:
TELEPHONE TECHNIQUES
The telephone is the most available and therefore, the most important means of access the citizen has for
obtaining the services of a public safety agency. It is the primary link between professional and nonprofessional
communications. The telephone is the fundamental method of communications within a department and is the
chief means of informal messages between departments. When you lift the receiver of your telephone, you are
about to meet someone to engage in a conversation as important as a face-to-face visit and you are the
department. It is the policy of Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center to be professional
and courteous to every caller, and to provide timely, efficient, and effective service.
The following procedures will be used to ensure that each caller to Rockbridge Regional Public Safety
Communications Center is provided the best conceivable service,
ANSWER PROMPTLY
Treat each call as an emergency.
Place yourself in the place of one who may be in need of emergency assistance. Every ring for that person is an
eternity. Try to answer all calls within two rings, but on the first ring if possible.
TAKE ALL INFORMATION - LOG IT
Never leave anything to memory. Fill in the CAD computer log. Be sure to include all the required information
on this log. Scrap paper does not make a permanent record of the incident.
RELAYING INFORMATION
A dispatcher's role in emergency services is to relay information from one person to another. Most problems
occur when dispatchers embellish information with their opinions or promise something they cannot deliver. A
good dispatcher relays information exactly as it is given and makes clear who the source of the information is.
PROMISING SERVICE
Dispatchers will not promise services to callers that they cannot provide. Seemingly innocent comments can
constitute a promise of service. If a department has informed you that they are en route this information could
be relayed to a caller but be careful to state that they are in route, not when they will get there.
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MAKING ASSUMPTIONS
When relaying information, ECC personnel must be careful not to embellish facts with their assumptions or
interpretations of the situation. If you have reason to suspect that the situation may be other than it appears, this
should be relayed, but it must be MADE CLEAR THAT IT IS YOUR OPINION, NOT FACT.
ANSWER EACH 9-1-1 LINE
"Rockbridge, 9-1-1, Where is your emergency?"
Do not add such phrases as "Good Morning," May I Help You," etc.
ANSWER EACH ADMIN LINE
"Rockbridge ECC, give last name".
EMERGENCY CALLS WILL ALWAYS BE ACCEPTED
Even when calls do not originate within a jurisdiction which we have dispatching responsibility. Obtain all
pertinent information and relay or transfer (stay on line to make sure the call goes through) to the proper
agency. Make every effort to handle the emergency.
NEVER assume the caller is in a position to redial another number.
SPEAK DIRECTLY INTO THE MOUTHPIECE
This ensures that you will be properly understood and will not waste time repeating information. Speak up, do
not swallow your words.
SHOW INTEREST IN THE CALLER
The person has or needs information and to him or her it is important. Use the caller's name when possible; it
makes them feel you have a personal interest in their call.
OBSERVE TELEPHONE COURTESY
Calm, competent, decisive voice that is courteous will never antagonize the caller. Avoid jargon or slang. Use
proper English.
TAKE CHARGE OF THE CONVERSATION
After the initial exchange and you sense the need of the caller party, cut off superfluous wordage by leading the
caller into meaningful context by asking questions as to the location and nature of the emergency. These two
pieces of information are the most important that can be obtained from the caller. Be courteous but firm. If
Page 27
necessary, keep the caller on the line while you dispatch the appropriate agencies. Place callers on hold or
transfer calls only when necessary and be sure to tell the caller what you are going to do.
MAKE SURE THE INFORMATION GETS TO THE PROPER PERSON
Never give responding unit’s misinformation, never guess. If requested information is not immediately
available, ensure that you have obtained the caller's name and telephone number so that you may return the call.
EXPLAIN WAITS
A party waiting on a "dead phone" may become irritable and uncooperative. Never put a caller on hold without
first determining the nature of the call. If you have an emergency on another line, ask, "Is this an emergency?"
and ask the caller to hold if it is not an emergency. If it is an emergency take enough information to get an
agency toned and ask them to hold briefly while you dispatch a unit and get back to both callers as quickly as
possible.
USE COMMON SENSE
Personnel engaged in a telephone conversation shall not become argumentative, rude or sarcastic.
Conversations that become argumentative shall be referred to the shift supervisor.
Personnel shall not leave callers on hold for long periods of time.
When more than one telephone line in the Communications Center is ringing, the caller should be asked if their
call is an emergency. Emergency calls must be given priority. All other calls are to be handled in the order in
which they were received. If not an emergency, advise caller you are handling an emergency and that you will
be right with them, and then place them on hold.
Callers requesting assistance of a field unit, advise the caller that a patrol unit will respond on their complaint as
soon as possible. Don't use the terms that a patrol unit will "be right there" or "be there in a minute". The caller
will expect immediate arrival or within sixty seconds.
At no time will any caller be told a patrol unit is not available or that all patrol units are busy and time of
response is unknown. If call load is backing up, notify the shift supervisor so they can provide for necessary
personnel to handle the calls.
When talking to field units, the telephone should mainly be utilized for administrative purposes that are too
lengthy for normal radio use. Field units should generally communicate with dispatchers via radio.
TERMINATE CALLS POSITIVELY AND COURTEOUSLY
HANDLING OF IN-COMING EMERGENCY CALLS
When receiving information for dispatching, the dispatcher must extract from the caller the following
information, in this order:
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THE LOCATION OF THE EMERGENCY
Obtain the location, caller’s name, DOB, and phone number of all incidents. Never use generic names or cell
phone carriers for caller names. If they are unable or unwilling to give their information, document the attempt
and move on. Include numeric street address, distance from recognizable landmark, and physical description of
location. This is the most vital piece of information you can get. Even if the caller is unable or unwilling to
continue at this point, units may be sent to the scene to determine the nature of the emergency, and when
applicable to handle the call. Always ask the caller to repeat directions/address to reaffirm what you have
obtained. Anything that may help the responding units locate the scene of the emergency.
NATURE OF THE EMERGENCY
It is essential to the establishment of priorities that the dispatcher understand the nature of the emergency with
which he or she is confronted, so that the proper units may be dispatched to the scene. (Police, Fire, EMS.) In
all instances attempt to determine the exact nature of the incident.
Determine if there are suspects, vehicles, weapons or any other special circumstances like intoxication involved
with the caller's complaint. In such cases obtain as much information as possible from the caller. .
Communications Personnel should attempt to keep the complainant on the phone as long as possible when
handling calls of a serious nature or in progress. Continually update responding units as any additional
information becomes available.
Communications personnel shall document all complaints coming into the Communication Center into the
computer using the CAD system of reporting. All complaints of a nature not served by this Office are to be
referred to the proper agency that handles the complaint. Emergency complaints shall be taken as if they are our
own, and the appropriate agency notified.
Communications Personnel shall not transfer callers to agencies that cannot handle their request for service.
Persons reporting complaints in person shall be treated promptly and courteously.
All complaints have priority over coffee breaks, smoke breaks, meals, etc. Telecommunicator’s assigned to a
radio/telephone, will, at all times, be alert and prepared to handle the duties of their assigned positions.
Telecommunicator’s will, at all time, speak courteously and distinctly on all voice transmissions.
REPORTING PARTY INFORMATION
The dispatcher should obtain the first and last name of the reporting party, the telephone number from which the
call is being placed. If the reporting party will not give the information, the comment, "refused to give" should
be noted in the comment spaces in the computer log. If on the other hand, certain circumstances prevented the
dispatcher from obtaining the information, the notation, "not obtained" should be noted in the comments section
of the computer log and an explanation.
GUIDELINES TO OBTAIN DESCRIPTIVE INFORMATION
*****OBTAIN CALLERS NAME AND PHONE NUMBER ON ALL CALLS*****
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SHOOTING/STABBING/POTENTIAL HOMICIDE:
• Location
• Name
• Phone Number
• Ascertain if caller is victim or with victim.
• Extent of injuries--rescue needed?
• Breathing: conscious; bleeding.
• Patient Weight
• If caller advises DOA, send rescue anyway.
• Is caller the suspect or get description of suspect if gone. If caller suspect, KEEP ON PHONE: valuable
information can be obtained.
• Type weapon used: still there or with suspect?
• Description and mode of travel.
• Keep the caller on the phone until units arrive unless caller's life may be placed in more danger by
staying on the phone.
FIGHT OR ASSAULT:
• Location
• Name
• Phone Number
• Weapons--type.
• Just occurred or in progress?
• How many involved? Juveniles or adults?
• Injuries--rescue needed?
• Patient Weight
• Is the caller involved?
• Does the caller have any weapons (type)?
• Did suspects flee, if so direction and mode of travel.
BOMB THREAT:
• Location
• Name
• Phone Number
• Where is the device supposed to be and if the building has been evacuated?
• What time is it supposed to detonate?
• Where is the caller?
• How long ago was the call received?
• What was said?
• Describe the caller: male/female race, accent speech impediment.
• Any background noise heard?
• Any reason given?
• Name of person who received the initial call, their locations, and phone number if not with caller.
• If threat is made to this office, try to keep the caller on the phone while you contact the phone company
to have it traced.
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POLICE OFFICER IN TROUBLE:
• Location
• Name
• Phone Number
• Where is officer?
• Any injuries--rescue needed?
• Nature of trouble (fight/shots/pursuit).
• Weapons (type)?
• How many involved (suspects and officers)?
• Description of suspects/vehicles and direction o£ travel.
• Does the caller know what jurisdiction the officer is from? (What color is the uniform)
• Phone number and location of call if different from incident. Keep caller on phone if in a position to
continue providing information.
ACCIDENTS/CRASHES:
• Location (parking lot/highway/intersection)?
• Name
• Phone Number
• Is anyone injured--rescue needed?
• Ascertain nature of injuries and if anyone is trapped in the vehicle(s).
• Has anyone been thrown from the vehicle?
• Is there any blood in, around, or leading away from the vehicle (if vehicle is found abandoned)?
• Any property damage? Any Doors or windows missing from vehicles involved?
• Is the road blocked?
• Are there any hazards present? (fire, smoke, water involvement, fuel or chemical leaks)
• Type of Vehicle (Tanker Truck, etc)?
HIT AND RUN:
• Location
• Name
• Phone Number
• Is anyone injured?
• Patient Weight
• Description of striking vehicle, direction of travel, damage to vehicle, description of driver/occupants.
STRUCTURE FIRE:
• Location
• Name
• Phone Number
• Structure: house or commercial.
o Is a garage attached and is there a vehicle in the garage?
o Any flammable or explosive materials in the building; ammunition, paint, etc.?
• Is it occupied? If so advise them to evacuate the structure if can be done safely.
• Is smoke and/or fire visible?
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VEHICLE FIRE:
• Location
• Name
• Phone Number
• Type of vehicle?
• Is the vehicle occupied? Are they able to get out of the vehicle?
• Where is the vehicle located? (Is the vehicle greater than 25 foot from the structure?)
• Is anyone injured?
• Is the vehicle carrying cargo, and what is it?
DUMPSTER FIRE:
• Location
• Name
• Phone Number
• How close is the dumpster to a structure?
• Is there smoke and/or fire visible?
BRUSH/GRASS FIRE:
• Location
• Name
• Phone Number
• How close to a structure is the fire?
• Is there smoke and/or fire visible?
• How big of an area is on fire?
WIRES/LINES DOWN:
• Location
• Name
• Phone Number
• Is there power in the area?
• Is there any smoke and/or fire visible?
• Who is the service provider in the area?
• Are there wires down? If so are they across the roadway?
GAS LEAK:
• Location
• Name
• Phone Number
• Inside or outside of a structure?
• Is anyone experiencing illness?
• Evacuate the structure and/or area.
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HAZARDOUS MATERIAL:
• Location
• Name
• Phone Number
• Determine what type material is being carried or has spilled--try to speak to driver of vehicle or user of
material for most accurate information. (placard information if available)
EMS CALLS:
• Location
• Name
• Phone Number
• Type of medical problem/complaint.
• Male or female? Age of the patient?
• Patient Weight
• Any pertinent past medical history?
• Is the patient awake and breathing?
• If bleeding, what is the severity?
*** KEEP IN MIND, THIS LIST IS NOT ALL INCLUSIVE. THERE MAY BE TIMES
WERE ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS ARE REQUIRED. THERE MAY BE SITUATIONS
WHERE SOME QUESTIONS ARE NOT APPLIED. ALWAYS REMEMBER OBTAINING
AS MUCH INFORMATION AS POSSIBLE IS BEST PRACTICE ***
TERMINATING A CALL
Never terminate a call unless nothing further can be obtained from the caller and the caller understands any
action to be taken, i.e., a police officer will respond. In some instances, such as prowler calls, the caller is to
remain on the line until officers arrive at the scene or the caller's life could be at risk by staying on the line.
Terminate calls positively and courteously.
911 HANG-UP/ABANDONED
Dispatchers will immediately call back the number that displays on ANI and/or RapidSOS. The call should then
be screened in the normal manner to determine if there is an emergency. An officer shall be dispatched to the
scene to determine if there is an emergency.
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911 OPEN LINES
A call in which the dispatcher is unable to establish voice contact on an open line is an emergency and is
referred to as an unknown trouble call, open line.
911 open lines, on landlines, in which the dispatcher is unable to get in contact with a person on the phone
should dispatch law enforcement and stay on the line until it is determined that no emergency exists.
PRANK/PROBLEM CALLS
These calls include false reports, incidents of playing, pranks, obscene calls and any other instances of misuse
of the emergency line. Dispatchers will redial the number and will always notify an adult or subscriber of the
situation. If an adult cannot be contacted, the dispatcher will dispatch law enforcement to the scene.
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: RADIO PROCEDURES
Number: COMM 13
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 3-17-21
Signature of Approval:
RADIO PROCEDURES
General guidelines for radio use:
Think before you speak. Organize your thoughts before transmitting.
The over-eager operator is a source of wasted time and confusion. Plain language, and the
phonetic alphabet (when necessary) help to eliminate errors and increase clarity.
Listen before transmitting to make certain the channel is clear.
Keep all transmissions brief and to the point.
Avoid long-winded descriptions and unnecessary repetition. Accuracy, brevity, and speed are all
important; however, they should be considered in that order.
Pleasantries or slang will not be used on the radio.
Speak distinctly and pronounce words carefully.
Speak at moderate speed using your conversational tone of voice with natural emphasis and
rhythm. Messages should be spoken by phrases, not one word at a time.
Make sure the microphone switch is fully depressed and pause briefly before starting to talk.
Talk at conversational level, don't shout.
Do not use the radio for non-essential messages.
Acknowledge messages which are understood without elaboration. Dispatchers should not
acknowledge a message until it is fully understood, and necessary information is noted.
Departments may conduct test of radio coverage with ECC approval.
During all radio operations, remain calm. Be careful to avoid uncivil, angry, abusive, derogatory,
or sarcastic remarks or language. When faced with such a situation, maintain control; do not
attempt to retaliate. Proceed with the business at hand. In cases where corrective action is
necessary, the parties concerned may report the incident to the Communications Supervisor.
Page 35
When you are requested by a receiving unit to repeat your message, speak slowly and in a
normal tone of voice.
Identify the unit first, then yourself, at the start of a conversation. Use official titles and
authorized unit names and equipment designations in all transmissions. Example: “Hey you,
this is me.”
When an error is made in a transmission, the word "correction" should be used, and the
correction made immediately.
All radio messages received by Dispatch will be repeated back to the unit to ensure the correct
information was received and to inform the other units
RADIO PROCEDURE - Mobile Units
Field units will acknowledge ECC with unit number not just "go ahead.”
Incidents should be handled by the unit assigned. If another unit determines it is closer to an
incident, the dispatcher should be advised immediately.
Units arriving on the scene of an incident will advise Dispatch. Should the location be different
from the original dispatched location, the first unit on the scene will advise Dispatch.
Dispatch will be advised when an incident is under control and if additional units may be
canceled.
When field units complete a call, Dispatch will be advised the unit is clear.
Dispatch will log in the CAD the status of field units. The units calling ECC by radio will
identify themselves by unit number. i.e. ECC, Engine 107.
Law enforcement shall be dispatched to any fire/EMS incident that may be potentially dangerous
and/or life threatening to responders
ECC personnel will acknowledge Fire Chiefs, Assistant Fire Chiefs, & EMS Chiefs/Captains
when they provide their status. Additional personnel responding will not be acknowledged
unless they are on scene and can provide an update on the incident.
If a Fire EMS unit should operate on the incorrect operational talkgroup, ECC shall advise the
unit of the correct operational talkgroup.
RADIO PATCH
ECC may patch two (2) or more radio talkgroups together. If it is deemed necessary to have
talkgroups patched, the request must come from the OIC. Radio patches will be done in
emergency situations only.
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: ACTIVATION OF PAGERS
Number: COMM 14
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 3-17-21
Signature of Approval:
ACTIVATING PAGERS
The voice paging is the primary means of notifying departments of calls for service. It is
importance that pages are clear and concise so field units can understand the information given.
NOTIFICATION OF CALLS
Verify department(s) needed and other information from the recommendations/maps then
activate the department's paging system
• If an automatic mutual aid response is indicated also page the mutual aid responder(s) at
the same time.
• Use the ALERT tone for 3 seconds to notify dispatched and/or responding units if any
additional information is received for the incident.
INITIAL DISPATCH PROCEDURE
The following information is to be given in the order during the initial dispatch of a Fire EMS
Incident.
• Tones
• Agency or Agencies
• Incident Location
• Incident Type
• Time of Dispatch
The first unit responding from each agency shall be advised of additional details to include, not
limited to, operational talkgroups, apartment numbers, cross streets, chief complaint, patient
weight, etc. Additional units, from the same agency, will receive operational talkgroups and the
time.
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PAGING EXAMPLES
EMS Call
Activation of Tones
Rescue 3
800 Fitzlee St
General Illness
1320
EMS Call w/ First Responders
Activation of Tones
Company 7, Rescue 17
608 W 29th St, Stop In
Injuries From A Fall
0845
Structure Fire (Residential)
Activation Of Tones
Companies 2, 10, 11, Rescue 3, DO
1517 Rockbridge Rd
Structure Fire
1310
Structure Fire (Commercial)
Activation Of Tones
Company 9, 7, 4, Rescue 1, Do, Company 9 for Truck 9
1233 N. Lee Hwy, Walmart
Structure Fire
1630
Motor Vehicle Crash
Activation Of Tones
Companies 9, Rescue 1
Rt.11 North; in the area of Hull’s Drive-In (or closest cross street)
Single vehicle, motor vehicle crash vs. deer; with injury
0330
Motor Vehicle Crash (Tractor Trailer/Dual Response)
Activation Of Tones
Companies 9 & 11, Rescues 1 & 3, DO
Interstate 81 Mile Marker 186.2, I 81 Mile Marker 1-8-6 point 2
Motor Vehicle Crash involving a Tractor & Trailer w/ Rollover
1145
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Transfer Quarters
Activation Of Tones
Company 80
1 Engine Transfer to Company 6
0800
Medic Request
Activation Of Tones
Rescue 1
632 Blacks Creek Rd
Medic Assist
1125
Working Incident
Activation Of Tones
Companies 9, 10, 4, 1, Rescue 1
25 S Main St
Working Incident
1140
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: FIRST RESPONDER PAGING PROCEDURES Number: COMM 15
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 3-17-21
Signature of Approval:
FIRST RESPONDER PAGING PROCEDURES
The following information outlines the proper paging procedures for First Responder agencies.
Several fire departments have certified through the Virginia Office of EMS, to respond to
medical emergencies (reference COMM 3).
The following procedures shall be followed by the dispatcher to send First Responders.
• First Responders shall be placed on all EMS incidents in their first due.
• If no EMS or First Responder agencies have responded at the 8 minute mark, the
dispatcher shall dispatch the next due EMS and next due First Responder agencies.
• If the EMS agency responds with-in 8 minutes, but the First Responder agency does not,
re-tone the First Responder agency, but do not add the next due.
• First Responder agencies SHALL NOT be sent on medical emergencies without an EMS
agency.
• First Responder agencies may be sent to a neighboring fire department’s area if they do
not have First Responder capabilities.
Co10 First Responder Paging Procedure Until Further Notice
BVFD First Responders will only be dispatched to EMS calls
for the following call types
• All Unresponsive Patients
• Cardiac arrest with CPR in progress
• Falls from greater than 10 feet
• Any agency that makes a request
• When BV Rescue Squad is already on an incident and they get a second call for service
• When BV Rescue Squad does not have career staff on duty (They will notify the ECC if
this occurs)
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: EMS RESPONSE PROCEDURES
Number: COMM 16.a
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 3-17-21
Signature of Approval:
EMS RESPONSE PROCEDURES
The following information outlines the proper post paging procedures for EMS incidents.
After the initial EMS incident has been dispatched, the dispatcher shall perform the
following to ensure at least one ambulance is responding:
• Immediately after dispatching a priority incident, the dispatcher shall contact the
closest Air Medical Services provider and place them on standby.
• If the EMS agency has NOT responded at 6 minutes after the initial request, the
dispatcher shall conduct a RESPONSE CHECK.
• If the next due EMS agency is from another jurisdiction, the dispatcher shall contact
the appropriate PSAP and request the closest department’s response. The dispatcher
shall give that jurisdiction the incident location, details, cross streets, & operational
frequency/talkgroup.
• If the EMS agency(s) has not responded after the 6 minute response check, the
dispatcher will reactivate the paging system at 8 minutes for the initial EMS
agency(s) and add the next due EMS agency(s) accordingly. If the next due EMS
agency is from another jurisdiction, the dispatcher shall announce the county name
and EMS agency’s name.
• If an EMS agency has an active incident and receives an additional incident, the next
due EMS agency shall be placed on the incident automatically.
• Dispatch First Responders on all EMS incidents if the 1st Due Fire Department is a
First Responder agency (reference COMM 3)
• Law Enforcement shall be dispatched with EMS agencies for all patients not
breathing, overdoses, and any incident that seems violent and/or dangerous to EMS
crews.
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• Mutual aid agencies will also be response checked at 6 minutes and re-paged at 8
minutes unless the primary agency has responded and advises that they are not
needed.
• Once an EMS transport unit is responding ECC will no longer re page every 8
minutes unless requested to do so by the responding unit.
• For calls during the hours of 6a-6p, Rescue 13, Company 4 EMS shall be dual toned
• For calls during the hours of 6a-6p, Co 1 EMS, Rescue 1 or Company 4 EMS shall be
dual toned
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: FIRE RESPONSE PROCEDURES
Number: COMM 16.b
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 3-17-21
Signature of Approval:
FIRE RESPONSE PROCEDURES
The following information outlines the proper paging procedures for Fire Departments.
After the initial fire incident has been dispatched, the dispatcher shall perform the following
to ensure the proper fire department response:
• If a fire department has NOT responded at 6 minutes after the initial request, the
dispatcher shall conduct a RESPONSE CHECK.
• If a fire department has NOT responded at 8 minutes after the initial request, the
dispatcher will re-tone the initial fire department and add the next due fire department.
• Additional calls for service requiring a fire response will NOT result in a second due
agency automatically being placed on the assignment.
• However, additional fire departments should be added for each fire department that has
failed to respond, until the response criteria has been met for the incident type.
• If the next due fire department(s) is from another jurisdiction the dispatcher shall contact
the appropriate PSAP and request the closest department’s response. The dispatcher shall
give that jurisdiction the incident location, details, cross streets, & operational
frequency/talkgroup.
• Fire departments should not be cancelled prior to, or during their response to an incident.
They shall be advised to continue at their own discretion by way of pager tones if they
have not responded, or ALERT tone if they have
• If any incident that has occurred on a boundary line of two fire departments areas, ECC
both departments shall be dispatched.
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE Subject: TREE DOWN IN ROADWAY Number: COMM 17 Effective Date: 6/11/2019 Last Revision Date: Signature of Approval:
Page 44
The following information outlines the proper procedures for trees down in roadway.
• Contact VDOT on all tree down in roadway calls. (VDOT has on-call personnel)
• Document the time in CAD when they were notified and if they refuse due to weather conditions.
• If the ENTIRE roadway is blocked Tone out the first due Fire Department.
• Do not roll any tree down calls to any second or third due department.
• If the first due agency does not respond document this in the CAD.
• Make sure your entire shift and the following shift is aware of the tree down and advise any units that
may be responding to calls in the area of the obstruction.
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: HEART/STROKE ALERTS
Number: COMM 18
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 3-17-21
Signature of Approval:
HEART / STROKE ALERTS
In the event an EMS unit advises you that they are calling a Field Heart or Stroke Alert, ECC
will need to do the following.
▪ Determine if the EMS unit needs Air Medical Services to meet them at the hospital
helipad or if they need to do a scene response.
▪ ECC is to notify the closest appropriate Air Medical Services Agency and have them
launched to where the EMS unit has requested them to go.
ECC needs to attempt to gather patient information (age, weight, height, chief complaint,
medical history, vital signs, & medical interventions that have been performed.) if the EMS unit
or field responder on scene is able to provide the information.
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE Subject: STRUCTURE FIRE PAGING PROCEDURES Number: COMM 19.a
Effective Date: 7-1-19
Last Revision Date: 3-17-21
Signature of Approval:
STRUCTURE FIRE PAGING PROCEDURES
The following information outlines the proper paging procedures for Structure Fires.
The following procedures shall be followed by ECC personnel to dispatch Fire and EMS.
STRUCTURE FIRE WITH HYDRANTS WITHIN 1000 FT OF THE STRUCTURE
• Tone first three due Fire Companies plus the first due EMS agency
• If fire is in the county tone the Duty Officer
*Once a fire company is on location and deems the fire to be a working incident ECC shall re-tone the
first three due fire companies and the first due EMS plus add an additional fire company.
STRUCTURE FIRE WITH NO HYDRANTS
• Tone first three due Fire Companies plus two tankers from the next two Companies with
tankers and the first due EMS agency
• If fire is in the county tone the Duty Officer
*Once a fire company is on location and deems the fire to be a working incident ECC shall re-tone the
first three due fire companies and the first due EMS plus add an additional fire company.
*If Command requests to fill the Tanker Task Force ECC shall tone for one additional tanker and one
additional engine
Page 46
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: WORKING INCIDENT PAGING
Number: COMM 19.b
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 3-17-21
Signature of Approval:
WORKING INCIDENT
Scope
• To establish standard guidelines and procedures that will serve to obtain additional
personnel and or apparatus, but not an additional alarm level at fire and rescue
emergency incidents. The term shall be known as a “Working Incident.”
Policy
• When deemed necessary by the Incident Commander to upgrade a Fire or Rescue
incident to a working incident, the Incident Commander will contact the Rockbridge
County Emergency
Communications Center on the assigned operational frequency and request a
“working Incident”.
Upon receipt to upgrade a dispatched Fire or Rescue emergency to a working incident
Rockbridge ECC will:
• Retone ALL Fire & EMS agencies currently working the incident.
• Dispatch the next due Fire Department on the response assignment
• Dispatch additional resources upon request
Requirements
• The Incident Commander shall determine as soon as possible if a working incident is
needed.
• In the event that a fire member arrives POV before a fire apparatus, said member can
make the decision to make it a working incident.
• If an ambulance or rescue squad person arrived ahead of the fire department, they
shall be cross-trained at no less than Firefighter level 1 before making the decision to
up-grade the incident. If said rescue squad personnel are not certified as firefighter 1
or higher, they can contact the fire department with a size up.
Page 47
Examples
STRUCTURE FIRE:
• COMPANIES A, B, C, & RESCUE A ARE DISPATCHED
• CHIEF A ARRIVES, ESTABLISHES COMMAND AND MAKES IT A WORKING
INCIDENT
• COMPANY D IS DISPATCHED FOR AN ENGINE COMPANY ONLY, IF NO
RESPONSE
FROM CO. D, THEN CO. E IS DISPATCHED
TRAFFIC CRASH:
• COMPANY A & RESCUE A ARE DISPATCHED
• ASSISTANT CHIEF A ARRIVES AND FINDS ENTRAPMENT, ASKS
DISPATCH TO MAKE IT A WORKING INCIDENT
• COMPANY B IS ADDED TO THE ASSIGNMENT FOR AN ENGINE COMPANY
1st Alarm Assignment
3 Fire Departments
1 EMS Department
2nd Alarm Assignment
6 Fire Departments
2 EMS Departments
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE Subject: CHIMNEY FIRE PAGING PROCEDURES Number: COMM 19.c
Effective Date: 7-6-21
Last Revision Date: 7-6-21
Signature of Approval:
CHIMNEY FIRE PAGING PROCEDURES
The following information outlines the proper paging procedures for Chimney Fires.
The following procedures shall be followed by ECC personnel to dispatch Fire and EMS.
• Chimney fires CONTAINED to the chimney, dispatch the following:
o 3 Fire departments for Engines
o 1 EMS dept for an ambulance
• Chimney fires NOT CONTAINED to the chimney or have extended to other parts of the house,
dispatch a Structure Fire response (COMM 19a)
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE Subject: VEHICLE INTO STRUCTURE
PAGING PROCEDURES Number: COMM 19.d
Effective Date: 7-6-21
Last Revision Date: 7-6-21
Signature of Approval:
VEHICLE INTO STRUCTURE PAGING PROCEDURES
The following information outlines the proper paging procedures for Vehicles Into A Structure.
The following procedures shall be followed by ECC personnel to dispatch Fire and EMS.
• For vehicles into a structure, dispatch the following
o 1 Engine
o 1 Ambulance
o Duty Officer – county calls
Note:
In the county, the duty officer will handle the notification of the building inspector, or advise
which inspector to call.
In the cities, the OIC or IC will handle the notification of the building inspector, or advise which
inspector to call.
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE Subject: TANKER TASK FORCE
Number: COMM 20
Effective Date: 7-1-19
Last Revision Date: 3-17-21
Signature of Approval:
TANKER TASK FORCE
The following information outlines the proper paging procedures for a request to fill the Tanker Task
Force. Tanker Task Force consists of three tankers and one engine.
REQUEST TO DISPATCH THE TANKER TASK FORCE ON A STANDARD FIRE CALL
• If Command requests to Dispatch the Tanker Task Force, ECC shall tone the next three companies
with tankers and the next due company for an engine.
REQUEST TO FILL TANKER TASK FORCE ON A STRUCTURE FIRE WITH TWO
TANKERS ALREADY ASSIGNED TO THE CALL
• If Command requests to Fill the Tanker Task Force ECC shall tone for the next due tanker and one
additional engine from the next due company.
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: FIRE/EMS SERVICE CALLS & STANDBYS Number: COMM 21
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: 4-20-21 Signature of Approval:
Fire/EMS Service Calls & Standbys
• If a Fire and/or EMS apparatus requests that a CAD sheet be started for a Service Call or
Standby and can provide an address, then ECC personnel shall start a CAD sheet as
requested.
• If multiple units are going to the same location for the service call or standby, then all
units shall be placed on the same CAD sheet.
• Assign the service call or standby an operation talkgroup (OPS 4 – OPS 6).
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: STATION TRANSFER PROCEDURE
Number: COMM 22
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: 4-20-21 Signature of Approval:
STATION TRANSFER PROCEDURE
• Station Transfer is when a Fire or EMS Department takes their apparatus to another
station to run that stations 1st Due Territory.
• Stations that have requested another agency to fill their quarters shall not receive Failure
To Responds.
The following is the information that ECC shall be provided.
• ECC will be advised by the Department that is doing the station transfer.
• That agency shall notify of ECC what unit will be doing the station transfer.
• ECC shall be advised by the unit when they are in the 1st Due Territory for the station
they have transferred to.
• ECC shall be advised by the unit when they have been cleared from the Station Transfer
and no longer covering that stations 1st Due Territory.
Following is the procedure for the how units should be dispatched when they
are on a Station Transfer.
• ECC shall tone the 1st due department and include the department that is covering.
o If Rescue 3 (Glasgow EMS) is doing a Station Transfer to Rescue 2 (Buena Vista
EMS) then when Rescue 2 gets dispatched on an incident, ECC will set off tones for
Rescue 2, & Rescue 3.
▪ Example
• 270 W 30th St, Sick Person
• Activate Tones
Rescue 2, Rescue 3
Dizziness
270 W 30th St
2015
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: LADDER/TRUCK COMPANY PAGING
PROCEDURES
Number: COMM 24
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: 4-20-21 Signature of Approval:
LADDER/TRUCK COMPANY PAGING PROCEDURES
Ladder Trucks should be placed on all Commercial Structure Fires.
If the CAD recommendation for a Commercial Structure Fire does have a Fire Department that operates
a Ladder Truck, you DO NOT need to announce a Ladder Truck.
Example:
1233 N Lee Hwy, Wal-Mart in Lexington. Recommendation shows Companies 9, 4, & 10 for
the initial response. Company 9 and Company 10 both have Ladder Trucks. The dispatch of this
incident should be as follows:
Activation of Tones
Companies 9, 4, 10, Rescue 1
Possible Structure Fire
1233 N Lee Hwy, Wal-Mart
1930
If the CAD recommendation for a Commercial Structure Fire does not have a Fire Department that
operates a Ladder Truck then ECC personnel shall place the closest Ladder Truck using CAD
recommendations on the assignment. ECC personnel shall announce the Company # and for what
Ladder Truck they operate.
Example:
44 Sterrett Rd, McDonald’s in Fairfield. Recommendation shows Companies 7, 12, & 6 for the
initial response. ECC would have to dispatch a Ladder Truck. Closest Ladder Truck is
Lexington Fire (Company 9) who is 5th Due. The dispatch of this incident should be as follows.
Activation of Tones
Companies 7, 12, 6, Company 9 for Truck 9, Rescue 17
Possible Structure Fire
44 Sterrett Rd, McDonalds
2045
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: OPERATIONAL TALKGROUPS
Number: COMM 25
Effective Date:
Last Revision Date: 4-20-21
Signature of Approval:
OPERATIONAL TALKGROUPS
Operational talkgroups are the radio channels that Fire/EMS use to communicate with
ECC. All Fire/EMS units will be dispatched and mark responding on the DISPATCH
talkgroup; they will then be assigned an operational talkgroup by the dispatcher. The
following are guidelines for the usage of particular talkgroups:
OPS-1 - Structure Fires
OPS-2 - EMS
OPS-3 - Single resource incidents such as:
Brush Fires
Fire Alarms
Motor Vehicle Crashes
OPS-4 – OPS-8 - Used at the discretion of the dispatcher or incident commander for
additional calls, expanding incidents, service calls/standby.
CMD-OPS - Used at the discretion of the incident commander for expanding incidents.
LANDING ZONE – Used for all medevac air to ground communications
EVENT 1 – EVENT 6 - Used for joint law enforcement, Fire/EMS incidents
CRCH ER - Used for communication with the local Emergency Dept or Medical Control
SPECIAL OPS – Technical Rescue incidents where joint FR/LE communication is NOT
needed
*Note: The Brushy and/or North analog repeaters are to be used to patch units from out of the
area into our radio system. Select the appropriate analog repeater and create a PATCH to the
talkgroup needed on the radio system. *
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: LANDING ZONES
Number: COMM 26
Effective Date: 4-24-20
Last Revision Date: 4-20-21
Signature of Approval:
LANDING ZONES
• Landing Zones are to be assigned to the incident requiring Air Medical Services. The
“secondary location” feature will be used to locate the landing zone. Use a placeholder
initially when assigning departments to the landing zone assignment. This will ensure
proper notifications are generated.
• Remember to create a new CAD incident for landing zones at an alternate address from
the incident scene.
• A list of current pre-designated landing zones is included in each station book.
Page 56
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject:
Number: COMM 27
Effective Date: 6-1-20
Last Revision Date: 4-20-21
Signature of Approval:
EVACUATION SIGNAL
• In the event the Incident Command or Safety Officer declares an Emergency Incident is
unsafe, an IMMEDIATE request for ECC personnel to activate an EVACUATION SIGNAL
(C2).
ECC personnel will activate the EVACUATION SIGNAL (C2) for 5 seconds on the F/R
ANNOUNCE channel and advise that an emergency evacuation of the structure has been
declared.
Once the Incident Command or Safety Officer has advised that the structure is clear and all
personnel have been evacuated, ECC personnel should request a PAR check from the
incident command and document the findings in the CAD. The dispatcher shall echo that
report back to confirm the findings.
EXAMPLE
EVACUATION SIGNAL (C2) for 5 seconds continuously (on F/R Announce)
Announce that an evacuation has been declared at the scene (repeat the address of the
incident), advise for all personnel to evacuate the structure and advise all units to restrict
radio traffic on affected talkgroup (i.e. OPS 1).
• If it is discovered that there is an emergency or imminent threat to a group of responders, use
(C2) on the appropriate announce talkgroup, and advise of the situation.
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EVACUATION SIGNAL
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: MAYDAY/FIREFIGHTER DOWN
Number: COMM 28
Effective Date: 6-1-20
Last Revision Date: 4-20-21
Signature of Approval:
MAYDAY/FIREFIGHTER DOWN CALL
(Definition: A firefighter lost trapped inside of a structure. The person making the initial call may or
may not be an officer or IC, as Personnel inside may be the ones to make the initial call)
Once a MAYDAY has been declared:
• ECC personnel will activate the Mayday Alert Tone (WARBLE) for 3 seconds and announce
that a mayday has been declared at the scene and advise all units to restrict radio traffic.
Dispatcher will initiate marker tones (flag icon at the bottom of the channel pop-out) on the
talkgroup having the mayday.
• ECC personnel shall then dispatch the next due fire department, and next known available medic
level ambulance (COMM 36a). A medevac helicopter shall also be assigned/auto launched.
• If next due Fire and/or EMS are out of the county they shall be requested from the appropriate
County e.g. Riverheads, Buchanan. NOTE - These Fire Departments and/or EMS agencies are to
be given a separate channel (IF AVAILABLE) while they are responding until they are closer to
the scene.
EXAMPLE
Mayday Signal (WARBLE) for 3 seconds continuously (on F/R Announce).
Announce that a MAYDAY has been declared at the scene (repeat the address of the
incident) and advise all units to restrict radio traffic on the talkgroup the mayday was
called on (i.e. OPS 1).
• Prompt the incident commander to perform a “PAR check” once radio traffic has subsided. This
will ensure accountability is done on all crews. Document the incident commander’s findings.
EXAMPLE
“Command, ECC, for a PAR check.”
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: SWIFT WATER RESCUE TEAM
Number: COMM 30
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: 5-21-21 Signature of Approval:
SWIFT WATER RESCUE TEAM
The regional swift water rescue team was created to assist fire and EMS agencies with removing
persons and/or property from bodies of water. The swift water rescue team operates under the
direction of the incident commander and is alerted at the initial dispatch of the call.
To dispatch the Swift Water Rescue Team the dispatcher shall activate the following agencies:
• Swift Water (Co.2; Co.6; Co.9; Co.10; Duty Officer)
• First Due Fire Department
• First Due EMS Agency
• Local Law Enforcement, and Game Warden for investigation
The following incidents shall have the Swift Water Rescue Team place on the assignment.
• Any incident that involves a large body of water, static or flowing
To satisfy the requirement for swift water team response, a boat crew must respond to the
incident.
Note:
All agencies involved with the swift water incident shall be operating on the same operation
talkgroup. Advise agencies, when dispatched, to operate the appropriate talkgroup. This applies
to not only fire and EMS but also law enforcement.
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE Subject: Rockbridge Co. Duty Officer Number: COMM 31 Effective Date: 3-31-18 Last Revision Date: 5-21-21 Signature of Approval:
Page 60
ROCKBRIDGE COUNTY DUTY OFFICER
DUTY OFFICER – EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
PURPOSE
A. To provide continuity of emergency response.
B. To provide administrative support during unusual and/or extreme circumstances.
C. To make appropriate notifications to: VEOC, Red Cross, VDEM, DEQ and Haz-Mat clean-up
contractors.
SCOPE
The provisions of this policy shall apply to any member assigned Duty Officer (DO) for Rockbridge County.
AUTHORITY
The Fire-Rescue Chief shall identify qualified personnel and scheduling of the DO rotation.
STANDARDS
A. The DO assignment will rotate on Sundays unless as otherwise arranged.
B. The DO shall be accessible by phone and/or pager. (pager preferred, activate tone ask for DO to contact
ECC)
C. The DO shall be notified of any incident requiring additional toning (beyond initial response) for
resources, or at the request of any Chief Officer or Incident Commander. This applies to any incident in
the County of Rockbridge. The DO shall be immediately notified of:
• Injury or death of a County/department member
• County/Department property damage
• County/Department vehicle damage
• Arrest of a Fire Department/Rescue Squad member
• Motor vehicle crashes involving Fire or Rescue vehicle
• Dispute between member and any other organization/citizen complaint that may result in future
action.
D. Once DO notification has been made, the DO will decide whether to monitor or respond based on
information provided and notify ECC of decision.
Notify (tone) the Duty Officer of the following:
• Structure Fire
• Structure w/fatality
• Commercial Vehicle Fire
• Brush fire requiring three or more companies
• Brush fire threating a structure
• Fire on County property
• Bomb Threat
• Explosive device w/injury
• Automatic fire alarms on County property
• Hazardous Material release/incident, including:
o Diesel Fuel/Gasoline
o Propane/Natural Gas
• Swift Water/Technical Rescues/Confined Space Rescues
• Structural Collapse
• MVC involving County school bus
• MVC w/tractor trailer
• MVC w/confirmed entrapment
• MCI Events
• Vehicle into a structure
• Incidents when I81/64 is shut down
• Search for lost/injured hikers
• When three (3) or more agencies are dispatched to incidents outside of the County. (notification
only
• Any situation where the communicator deems necessary that the DO be notified.
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: TORNADO WARNINGS
Number: COMM 32
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: 5-21-21 Signature of Approval:
TORNADO WARNINGS
In the event of a Tornado Warning, the dispatcher shall do the following:
• Activate ALERT for 5 seconds over FR announce. Announce the following:
• Example:
• “All units, standby for Tornado Warning information”
• Activate ALL FIRE and ALL EMS Page.
• Read, verbatim, the Tornado Warning information.
• Notify Emergency Managers from all jurisdictions
Page 62
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety
Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: FIRE & EMS
RECOMMENDED
RESPONSES
Number: COMM 33
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: Signature of Approval:
CALL TYPES
911 OPEN LINE - A 911 call that is open from a landline phone with no voice contact. Law
Enforcement in the Cities of Lexington and Buena Vista will sent. In the County, RBSO, Fire, &
EMS shall be sent. (recinded 8/22/2019)
Fire Call Types
ANY FIRE WITH IN 25 FEET OF A STRUCTURE IS CODED AS A
STRUCTURE FIRE.
F-AIRPLANE - A report of any aircraft down, this includes but is not limited to: planes, gliders,
helicopters, or other aircraft.
F-ALARM - Any fire alarm that does not present with visible smoke, flames, or the smell of
smoke.
F-BRUSH - Report of any type of brush, grass, tree, or Wildland fire that is greater than 25 feet
from a structure. If less than 25 feet from a structure incident needs to be coded F-
STRUCTURE.
F-CO - Any reports of carbon monoxide alarms sounding or chirping. Reports of carbon
monoxide exposure should also fall into this category. Reports of illness with this call type
should also have EMS dispatched.
F-DUMPSTER - Reports of trash barrel, dumpsters, or other debris receptacles.
F-ELEVATOR - Elevator alarms or subjects trapped in elevators.
F-GAS - Any reports of a smell of “gas” should be treated as a natural gas leak unless proven
otherwise.
F-HAZMAT - Any report of the release of materials believed to be hazardous. These include but
are not limited to: hydrocarbons such as gasoline and diesel fuel, chemicals spilt on the roadway,
in a waterway or storm drain, etc
F-LPG FIRE- Propane tank that is reported to be on fire
Page 63
F-LZ – Landing Zone step up.
F-SERVICE - Any time that the FD is dispatched for non-emergency functions such as Station
Transfers, removing trees from the roadway, lifting assistance, or other ancillary service related
events. Additionally, any FD generated services calls should be recorded under this category.
Anytime an FD reports that they are doing a standby. Events may include: controlled burns,
sporting events, public education events, etc. Parades do not qualify as stand-by type events.
F-SMOKE - Any reports of smoke for which the cause is not able to be determined. This does
not include any report of smoke in a structure. Examples: smoke in the vicinity of, column of
smoke in the distance.
F-STRUCTURE - Any report of fire, smoke (smell or visible) inside any structure. Included
shall be any report of a fire threatening a structure (i.e.- vehicle on fire near or in a structure,
wildfire threatening a structure) ****If reported in a Commercial Structure add Truck Company.
Examples of Commercial Structures are as follows: Apartment Complexes, Schools, Hospitals,
City Municipal Buildings, Nursing Homes, Motels, and Day-Care Centers. ****
F-SWIFT - Swift Water Rescue.
F-TECH - Technical Rescue Call.
F-TRAIN - Any report of a train coming off of its rail or tracks.
F-VEHFIRE - Any report of a motorized vehicle that is on fire. Vehicle fires within 25 feet of a
structure should be coded as STRUCTURE FIRE.
F-VEHFIREC - Commercial Vehicle Fire (ex. Tractor Trailers, RV’s, Buses, Box Trucks, etc)
F-WEATHER- Any weather related incident requiring a Fire Dept to be dispatched.
F-WIRE - Any reports of electrical lines down, arching, or transformers blown or on fire. This
would include telephone pole fires.
MVC Call Types
MVC-Entrapment - Any motor vehicle collision in which the caller advises the patient is pinned
or trapped in or by the vehicle. Any accidents reported as “possible” entrapment should be
classified here as well; this includes major mechanisms such as rollovers, head-on collisions, or
any MVC in which the caller advises patients are still in the vehicle but do not appear able to get
out. (i.e. Does not appear occupants can get out of the vehicle)
MVC-Injury - Any motor vehicle collision in which the call advises there are, or potentially are
injuries involved.
Page 64
MVC-FD ONLY (No PI) - Any motor vehicle collision in which there is no need for a rescue
response. No patients indicated or reported. If a need exists for traffic control or hazard remove
that requires fire, but there aren’t any patients, this would be the appropriate selection.
MVC- PD ONLY (NO PI) - Any motor vehicle collision in which there is no need for a fire or
rescue response. No patients indicated or reported. No need exists for traffic control or hazard
removal.
MVC- PEDESTRIAN - Pedestrian struck by a vehicle.
MVC- MCI /BUS Accident - Any incident involving the report of a school bus as part of the
collision. Also included would be commercial buses, large vans, etc. MCI – Mass Casualty
Incident is defined as an accident with 6 or more patients or 6 or more vehicles.
EMS Call Types
EMS – ABD PAIN – Abdominal Pain.
EMS – ALARM – Medical Alarm Activations.
EMS – ALLERGY – Allergic Reaction
EMS – AMPUTATION – Body part that has been partially or completely amputated.
EMS – AMS – Altered Mental Status.
EMS – ASSAULT – Injuries from an Assault.
EMS – BITE – Animal Bite.
EMS – BURN – Any type of burn to the body.
EMS – CARDIAC – Chest Pain or any Cardiac related emergency.
EMS – CHOKING – Subject choking (still breathing).
EMS – CODE – Cardiac Arrest (subject not breathing & no pulse).
EMS – CVA – Stroke (Cardiovascular Accident).
EMS – DIABETIC – Diabetic Emergency.
EMS – DIB – Difficulty Breathing / Shortness of Breath.
EMS – DROWNING – Drowning or near drowning.
EMS – ELECTROCUTION – Electrocution.
EMS – FALL – Injuries from a fall.
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EMS – FRACTURE – Any fracture or dislocation to the body.
EMS – GSW – Gunshot Wound
EMS – HEMORRHAGE – Hemorrhage.
EMS – LACERATION – Laceration.
EMS – OB – Any OB emergency / pregnancy issue.
EMS – OD – Drug overdose.
EMS – PAIN – Generalized non-traumatic pain any in the body.
EMS – POISON – Poisoning.
EMS – SEIZURE – Subject report to be having a seizure of seizure like activity.
EMS – SERVICE – Any time that and EMS Department is dispatched for non-emergency
functions such as lifting assistance, Station Transfers, or other ancillary service related events.
Additionally, any EMS Department generated services calls should be recorded under this
category. Anytime an EMS Department reports that they are doing a standby. Events may
include: controlled burns, sporting events, public education events, etc. Parades do not qualify as
stand-by type events.
EMS – SICK – Subjects with general illness, N & V, dizziness, flu like symptoms.
EMS – STABBING – Subject that has been stabbed.
EMS – SUICIDE – Suicide attempt.
EMS – SYNCOPE – Subjects reported to have passed out or having syncope.
EMS – UNKNOWN – Any unknown medical emergency.
EMS – UNRESPONSIVE – Subject that is unresponsive/unconscious (still breathing)
Page 66
QUICK REFERENCE CALL TYPE RESPONSES
KEY
FD - Fire Department
EMS - Rescue Squad
C5 – Company 5
EM – Emergency Management LE - Law Enforcement DT – Disaster Trailer SW – Swift Water (Companies 2, 6, 9, 10) FOAM – ROANOKE CITY (5408532829)
Fire Incident Types Recommended Response
911 OPEN LINE LE ONLY (IN LEX & BV) 1 FD, 1 EMS, LE (IN THE COUNTY)
F - AIRPLANE 3 FD, County Wide EMS, EM (COUNTY), FOAM, DT, LE
F - ALARM 1 FD
F - BRUSH 1 FD
F - CO 1 FD, unless illness reported add 1 EMS
F - DUMPSTER 1 FD
F - ELEVATOR 1 FD
F - GAS 1 FD
F - HAZMAT 1 FD, 1EMS, EM (COUNTY), LE
F - LPG FIRE 3 FD, 1 EMS, LE
F – LZ 1 FD
F - SERVICE 1 FD
F - SMOKE 1 FD
F - STRUCTURE 3 FD, 1 EMS, LE, (IF COMMERCIAL ADD TRUCK)
F - SWIFT 1 FD, 1 EMS, LE, SW
F - TECH 1 FD, 1 EMS, EM (COUNTY), LE
F - TRAIN 3 FD, 1 EMS, EM, ALL EMS & DT IF A PASSENGER TRAIN, LE
F - VEHFIRE 1 FD
F- VEHFIREC 2 FD, EM (COUNTY)
F - WEATHER 1 FD
F - WIRES 1 FD
MVC - ENTRAPMENT 1 FD, 1 EMS, C5, LE
MVC - INJURY 1 FD, 1 EMS, LE
MVC - FD ONLY (NO PI) 1 FD, LE
MVC - PD ONLY (NO PI) LE
MVC - PEDESTRIAN 1 FD, 1 EMS, C5, LE
MVC - MCI/BUS 2 FD, County Wide EMS, EM (COUNTY), DT, LE
EMS – (ALL CALL TYPES) 1 EMS, C5 & 1st Responders, LE (IF APPLICABLE)
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. Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: MODIFIED RESPONSE
Number: COMM 34
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: 5-21-21 Signature of Approval:
MODIFIED RESPONSE
These are a few guidelines that we need to consider when going into a Modified Response Mode.
• Conditions in our area are extreme and affecting the ECC in a major way, creating
more calls for service than the system can handle for an extended amount of time.
• The dispatching of every single call is not going to be possible due to the amount of
call volume/radio traffic.
• The roadways are treacherous, and an emergent response would cause more harm
than good.
If the situation meets any of these guidelines the on-duty supervisor can place ECC into a
Modified Response Mode. ECC Director shall be notified.
• ECC shall activate the ALL FIRE & ALL EMS PAGE and advise that ECC is
operating under a Modified Response Mode.
• When you do this, it will trigger a few minor changes in our dispatching of calls:
• We will not dispatch calls for “trees down”, “road blocked” or “wires down” unless
there is an immediate threat to life or property.
• We will log on a separate piece of paper all trees down in roadways, wires down
without an immediate hazard or any “Service Calls” for oxygen assistance, etc. and
forward them to the EOC or appropriate agency via phone and/or fax. (Faxing can be
done only if it can be confirmed that someone is monitoring the fax machine and can
reply) If the EOC is opened, the fax shall go there for assignment to resources.
• The Director may authorize overtime to callback personnel in an emergency.
• Notify the Duty Officer
• Any call that is received during the modified response, shall be entered into the CAD,
printed and cleared for use in logging the event and recordkeeping.
• ECC shall activate the ALL FIRE & ALL EMS PAGE and advise that ECC has ended
the Modified Response Mode.
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: INTERSTATE 81 RESPONSES
Number: COMM 35.a
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: 5-21-21 Signature of Approval:
Page 69
INTERSTATE 81 RESPONSES
Rockbridge / Augusta County Line is MM 205.3
Rockbridge / Botetourt County Line is MM 173.7
EXITS
MM 205 – Raphine
MM 200 – Fairfield
MM 195 – Timber Ridge
MM 191 – Interstate 64
MM 188 A & B – Poplar Hill
MM 180 A & B – Fancy Hill
MM 175 – Natural Bridge
EMERGENCY CROSSOVERS
MM 205.3
MM 202.8
MM 198.7
MM 196.9
MM 192.2
MM 185.2
MM 178.4
MM 175.3
MM 173.7
UNDERPASS
MM 205 → RT. 606 RAPHINE RD
MM 200 → RT. 710 STERRETT RD
MM 196.1 → RT. 716 MOUNT ATLAS RD
MM 195.1 → RT. 11 N LEE HWY
MM 191.3 → I64 EAST & WEST
MM 188.7 → RT. 60 MIDLAND TRL
MM 183.4 → RT 679 HOPS HILL RD
MM 177.0 → RT. 692 RED MILL RD
OVERPASS
MM 198.7 → RT. 712 DECATUR RD
MM 188.0 → RT. 60 MIDLAND TRL
MM 187.4 → RT. 699 WESLEY CHAPEL RD
MM 182.2 → RT. 680 FALLING SPRINGS RD
MM 180.6 → RT. 11 S LEE HWY
MM 179.3 → RT. 690 PADGETTS HILL RD
MM 176.8 → RT. 609 CEDAR CREEK RD
MM 176 → RT.11 S LEE HWY
MM 175.3 → RT. 693 HIGH BRIDGE CHURCH RD
REST AREA
MM 199.2 SOUTHBOUND
BODY OF WATER
MM 190.3 → MAURY RIVER
MM 184.1 → BUFFALO CREEK
DUAL RESPONSE AREAS
MM 201.8 – MM 203.8 COMPANY 12 & 7 / RESCUE 17
MM 194.1 – MM 196.1 COMPANY 7 & 9 / RESCUE 1 & 17
MM 184.1 – MM 186.2 COMPANY 9 & 11 / RESCUE1 & 3
SINGLE RESPONSE AREAS
MM 203.9 – MM 205.3 COMPANY 12 & RESCUE 17
MM 196.2 – MM 201.7 COMPANY 7 & RESCUE 17
MM 186.3 – MM 194.0 COMPANY 9 & RESCUE 1
MM 173.7 – MM 184.1 COMPANY 11 & RESCUE 3
Page 70
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: INTERSTATE 64 RESPONSES
Number: COMM 35.b
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: 5-21-21 Signature of Approval:
INTERSTATE 64 RESPONSES
Rockbridge / Alleghany County Line is MM 41
Rockbridge / Alleghany County have a mutual agreement for Rockbridge to
cover Interstate 64 MM 38 to MM 41 in Alleghany County.
EXITS
MM 56 – Interstate 81
MM 55 – Lexington
MM 50 – Kerrs Creek
MM 43 - Goshen
EMERGENCY CROSSOVERS
MM 53
MM 48
MM 44
MM 39
UNDERPASS
MM 43 → RT. 744 SCENIC DR
MM 44 → RT. 850 MIDLAND TRL
MM 45 → RT. 629 WHITE ROCK RD
MM 51 → RT. 625 BETHANY RD
MM 52 → RT. 624 LOW BRIDGE LN
MM 53 → RT. 602 TURKEY HILL RD
Page 71
MM 55.5→ RT. 763 LINCOLN RD
OVERPASS
MM 46 →RT. 629 WHITE ROCK RD
MM 49 →RT. 627 SYCAMORE VALLEY DR
MM 50 → RT. 623 FREDERICKSBURG RD
MM 55 → RT. 11 N LEE HWY
DUAL RESPONSE AREAS
MM 38 – MM 40 ALLEGHANY COUNTY / COMPANY 4 & 3 /
RESCUE 13
MM 40.1 – MM 44.0 COMPANY 4 & 3 / RESCUE 13
MM 44.1 – MM 48.0 COMPANY 4 & 3 / RESCUE 13 EASTBOUND
MM 44.1 – 48.0 COMPANY 4 & 3 / RESCUE 4 & 13 WESTBOUND
MM 51.5 – MM 54.0 COMPANY 4 & 9 / RESCUE 4 & 1
SINGLE RESPONSE AREAS
MM 48.1 – MM 51.4 COMPANY 4 / RESCUE 4
MM 54.1 – 56 COMPANY 9 / RESCUE 1
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Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: EMS STAFFING LEVEL OF SERVICE
Number: COMM 36.a
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: 4-5-21 Signature of Approval:
EMS STAFFING LEVEL OF SERVICE
The purpose of this policy is to allow dispatchers to quickly choose the closest
appropriate/requested EMS level of service.
The levels of service are:
▪ Medic (staff by EMT-I or Paramedic) - ALS
▪ Trauma (staffed by EMT-A) - ALS
▪ Rescue (staffed by EMT-B) - BLS
• For staffed EMS units, the attendant in charge (AIC) shall call ECC at the
beginning of the shift and indicate the level of service and the duration. This may
either be done via telephone or by radio (DISPATCH).
• If the level of service changes during the indicated shift, the AIC shall call ECC
and advise of the change.
• For unstaffed EMS agencies, ECC shall assume Rescue level (BLS)
Page 73
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: MEDIC/ALS ASSISTS
Number: COMM 36.b
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: 5-21-21 Signature of Approval:
MEDIC/ALS ASSISTS
The purpose of this policy is to allow dispatchers to quickly choose the closest
appropriate/requested EMS level of service.
Advanced life support (ALS) levels of service are:
▪ Medic (staff by EMT-I or Paramedic)
▪ Trauma (staffed by EMT-A)
• EMS units may require additional support on medical emergencies that their
current staffing level cannot provide.
• EMS units shall request the level of service they require and indicate the reason
for request, and condition of the patient
• The dispatcher shall tone the first due agency and the closest appropriate staffed
EMS unit based on the staffing level of service list (COMM 36.a)
• Dispatchers should try to establish the route of travel of the requesting unit if a
rendez-vous or intercept is required.
• ALS providers in the area, may respond to assist. ECC should not automatically
cancel any dispatched resource.
Page 74
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY RESPONSES
Number: COMM 37
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: 5-21-21 Signature of
Approval:
BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY RESPONSES
• Rockbridge County Fire EMS Departments provide service on the Blue Ridge
Parkway from MM 27.2 to MM 53.1.
• The following are the Fire EMS Responses on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
• Parkway Police is to be notified for ANY incident on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
• The Rockbridge Sheriff’s Office shall be notified for ANY incident, in county, on the
Blue Ridge Parkway.
• Any incident reported on the Blue Ridge Parkway outside of the mile markers in
Rockbridge County needs to be transferred to the Parkway Police.
ECC will use the following Mile Markers for response determination:
MM 27. – MM 31.9
Company 12 / Rescue 17
MM 32.0 – MM 40.0
Company 7 / Rescue 17
MM 40.1 – MM 53.1
Company 10 & Rescue 2
Page 75
The following chart shows the names of areas on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Rockbridge County.
MILE MARKER AREA
27.2 RT. 56 Underpass (Tye River Gap (Enter/Exit)
29.0 Whetstone Ridge Rd Intersection (Parkway Maint. Shop
29.5 Irish Creek Road (RT.603) Underpass (NO ACCESS)
31.4 Stillhouse Hollow Parking Area
31.9 Painter Mountain Lane (RT. 886) Crossing
34.4 Yankee Horse Ridge Parking Area
37.5 Nettle Creek Underpass (Irish Gap) (Enter/Exit)
38.8 Boston Knob Overlook
40.0 Clarks Gap
42.2 View Irish Creek Valley
44.2 Forest RT. 76 (Jordan Rd.) Intersection (Enter/Exit)
44.4 Whites Gap Overlook
44.9 Chimney Rock Mountain Overlook
45.6 RT. 60 Underpass (Enter/Exit)
45.7 Buena Vista Overlook
46.9 Forest Service Rd. Underpass
47.5 Indian Gap Parking Area
48.9 Licklog Springs Gap
49.3 View House Mountain
50.5 Robinson Gap Underpass (No Access)
51.5 Appalachian Trail Crossing & Parking Area
52.8 Bluff Mountain Overlook
53.1 Bluff Mountain Tunnel
Page 76
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: FIRE/EMS LAST CALL
Number: COMM 38
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: 5-21-21 Signature of Approval:
LAST CALL
The following is the script for the Last Call for Fire/EMS personnel who have passed away.
ECC will use the following script, or use the department’s submitted script for the Last Call
ECC personnel will need the following information:
• Department Name
• Name of Deceased
• Specific wording of the script supplied by the department, if applicable
• Activate ALL FIRE AND ALL EMS PAGE
• Activate the specific department’s tones
The members of the _____________________ (Department Name) wishes to thank
___________________ for his / her dedicated service to the citizens of Rockbridge County.
Although you have left us, you will never be forgotten. This is the last call for
____________________ at (time) (month, day, year).
Page 77
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: DISABLED EMERGENCY VEHICLES
Number: COMM 39
Effective Date: Last Revision Date: 5-21-21 Signature of Approval:
DISABLED EMERGENCY VEHICLES
A vehicle that has responded to an incident and is now unable to continue their response due to
mechanical issues or an accident.
If the vehicle is unable to continue the response due to mechanical issues ECC shall do the
following:
• Obtain the location of the vehicle.
• Make sure all occupants of the vehicle are ok.
• Send the appropriate resources needed to those occupants and vehicle.
ECC shall tone the following if EMS Apparatus becomes inoperable on an EMS Incident:
• All Depts that have been dispatched.
• Next due EMS Department (Carilion if available).
• 1st Responders (if the 1st or 2nd Due Fire Department is a 1st Responder Dept)
ECC shall tone the following if 1st Responder Apparatus becomes inoperable on an EMS
Incident:
• Original Fire Dept for 1st Responders.
• 2nd Due First Responders if the 2nd Due Fire Dept is 1st Responders.
ECC shall tone the following if Fire Apparatus becomes inoperable on a Fire Incident:
• Original Fire Dept.
• Next appropriate due Fire Dept. (i.e. If you have toned a Structure Fire and 1 of the 3
Departments responding vehicles becomes inoperable ECC shall place 4th Due Fire on
the assignment.)
Page 78
Rockbridge Regional Public Safety Communications Center
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE
Subject: Fire Rescue Announce
Number: COMM 40
Effective Date: June 1, 2020 Last Revision Date: Signature of Approval:
Fire Rescue Announce
• The symphony console has the ability to open all fire rescue talkgroups simultaneously. This
provides a way for dispatchers to alert all talkgroups without the need for patching talkgroups
together.
• Fire rescue announce is to be used to give announcements or immediate alerts to all fire rescue
personnel. Normally, all announcements are preceded by a three second ALERT tone.
• This may include, but is not limited to:
• Units in/out of service (repair, maintenance, etc)
• Major events notification (acknowledgement of Mayday press WARBLE for three
seconds, imminent safety concerns, press C2 for five seconds)
Procedure
• To activate the Fire/Rescue Announce feature, gather the information that needs to be sent and
press the F/R Announce channel on the console. This will activate all talkgroups assigned to fire
and rescue.
• Remember, this feature preempts all ongoing radio traffic. Unless it is emergent, attempt to wait
until there is a break in normal radio traffic.
• Upon receiving information that a unit is in or out of service (repair, maintenance, etc), notify all
fire rescue personnel by first pressing the ALERT tone, then giving the information. This should
happen during the hours of 6am and 10pm. Notifications after hours should wait until 6am.
• When a Mayday is declared on a fire scene, acknowledge the Mayday by pressing the WARBLE
tone for three seconds on F/R Announce channel, and alert personnel of the Mayday (Comm 28).
• When an evacuation is declared on the fire scene, acknowledge the evacuation by pressing the
EVACUATION SIGNAL (C2) for three seconds on F/R Announce channel on the console and
alert personnel of the evacuation (Comm 27).
• If a dispatcher discovers information that is emergent or an imminent threat to personnel beyond
a singular incident, press the C2 tone, and give the information
• If an incident commander wishes for an announcement to be broadcast, press the ALERT tone,
indicate what incident commander requested the announcement and then give the message.
Page 79
Regional Mass Casualty Incident Plan
1 | P a g e
Regional Mass Casualty Plan
MCI - ECC 2019
Page 80
Regional Mass Casualty Incident Plan
Level 1
(5-9 Patients) • Dispatch the Initial Response Assignment for the incident • Level 1 MCI Requested
LEVEL 1
ACTION
Comments
Three Rescue Agencies/Four Transport Units
To the scene – this includes the initial assignment
Dispatch one (1) additional fire company To the scene/manpower Dispatch RCFR Duty Officer (county incidents) To the scene
Notify SJH – ED Charge Nurse One (1) Aeromedical Transport Unit Standby –
Dispatch additional Law Enforcement Assistance To the scene Notify ECC Director or Designee
Notify VDOT TOC VDOT to the scene – if incident occurs on highway Notify VSP
COMMENTS
• ECC may automatically activate Level 1 MCI based on call information. • Notify IC when all required units are enroute/on-scene.
Page 81
Regional Mass Casualty Incident Plan
Level 2 (10-20 Patients)
• Dispatch the Initial Response Assignment for the incident • Level 2 MCI Requested
LEVEL 2
ACTION
Comments
Seven (all County) Rescue Agencies / 9
Transport Units
To staging – this includes the initial assignment (Prompt IC to locate a staging area)
Contact Carilion Dispatch to send units from Rke To staging Dispatch Duty Officer To the scene
Two (2) Additional Fire Companies To the scene - manpower Contact Rockbridge Co. Schools School bus - to staging
Dispatch the Regional Disaster Trailer – FVRS To the scene (Tone R17/Co7 initially) Contact SJH, Augusta Health, Roanoke Memorial ED Obtain number of patients each can receive
One (1) Aeromedical Transport Unit Standby – SJH Helipad if LG12 is unavailable Dispatch additional Law Enforcement Assistance To the scene
Notify ECC Director or Designee ECC Management/Additional Staffing Notify VDOT TOC VDOT to the scene – if incident occurs on highway
Notify VSP COMMENTS
• Obtain from IC who will be the EMS Officer • Obtain from IC who will be Staging Officer and where the staging area is
located for EMS units. • Notify EMS officer – once ED’s have been contacted and provide number
of patients each can take. • Consider other First Response agencies for man power if needed.
Page 82
Regional Mass Casualty Incident Plan
Level 3
(21-49 Patients) • Dispatch the Initial Response Assignment for the incident • Level 3 MCI Requested
LEVEL 3
ACTION
Comments
Seven (all County) Rescue Agencies / 9
Transport Units
To staging – this includes the initial assignment (Prompt IC to locate a staging area)
Notify surrounding Counties for 4 transport units To staging Contact Carilion Dispatch to send units from Rke To staging
Three (3) Additional Fire Companies To the scene - manpower Dispatch Duty Officer To the scene
Dispatch the Regional Disaster Trailer – FVRS To the scene - (Tone R17/Co7 initially) Contact Rockbridge Co. Schools School bus to staging
Dispatch BVPD Command Trailer To the scene Contact SJH, Augusta Health, Roanoke Memorial ED Obtain number of patients each can receive
*Dispatch RCFR/LFD Off duty personnel Report to staging Two (2) Aeromedical Transport Units Standby – SJH Helipad if LG12 is unavailable
VAEOC Notification VDEM staff on standby Dispatch additional Law Enforcement Assistance To the scene
Notify ECC Director or Designee ECC Management / Additional Staffing Implement the Modified Response Plan
Notify VDOT TOC VDOT to the scene – if incident occurs on highway Notify VSP
*Rockbridge County Fire-Rescue and Lexington Fire off duty career staff COMMENTS
• Obtain from IC who will be the EMS Officer • Obtain from IC who will be Staging Officer and where the staging area is
located for EMS units. • Obtain from EMS officer the location of a potential LZ • Notify EMS officer – once ED’s have been contacted and provide number
of patients each can take. • Obtain from IC where the command post will be located. • Consider other First Response agencies for man power if needed.
Page 83
Regional Mass Casualty Incident Plan
Level 4
(50+ Patients) • Dispatch the Initial Response Assignment for the incident • Level 4 MCI Requested
LEVEL 4
ACTION
Comments
Seven (all County) Rescue Agencies / 9
Transport Units
To staging – this includes the initial assignment (Prompt IC to locate a staging area)
Notify surrounding Counties for 6 transport units To staging Contact Carilion Dispatch to send units from Rke To staging
Three (3) Additional Fire Companies To the scene - manpower Dispatch Duty Officer To the scene
Dispatch the Regional Disaster Trailer – FVRS To the scene (Tone R17/Co7 initially) Contact Augusta Co for the disaster trailer at SARS To staging
Contact Rockbridge Co. Schools Two (2) School buses to staging Dispatch BVPD Command Trailer To the scene
Contact SJH, Augusta Health, Roanoke Memorial ED Obtain number of patients each can receive *Dispatch RCFR/LFD Off duty personnel Report to staging
Two (2) Aeromedical Transport Units Standby – SJH Helipad if LG12 is unavailable VAEOC Notification VDEM staff on standby
Dispatch additional Law Enforcement Assistance To the scene Notify ECC Director or Designee ECC Management / Additional Staffing
Implement the Modified Response Plan Notify VDOT TOC VDOT to the scene – if incident occurs on highway
Notify VSP *Rockbridge County Fire-Rescue and Lexington Fire off duty career staff COMMENTS
• Obtain from IC who will be the EMS Officer • Obtain from IC who will be Staging Officer and where the staging area is
located for EMS units. • Obtain from EMS officer the location of a potential LZ • Notify EMS officer – once ED’s have been contacted and provide number
of patients each can take. • Obtain from IC where the command post will be located. • Consider other First Response agencies for man power if needed.
Page 84