SOP Manual - Cleveland Fire Department

Cleveland Fire Rescue . Cleveland Tennessee

Cleveland Fire Department 

Operations Manual 

Chapter I 

Introduction 

Mission Statement 

The mission of the Cleveland Fire Department is to serve the citizens and guests of the City of Cleveland 

by protecting life, property and the environment from incidents involving hazardous materials, fire, and 

other services in order to mitigate both manmade and natural disasters. This will be accomplished 

through code management, public education, and timely incident responses. 

General Provisions 

The major functions of the Cleveland Fire Department are (1) to prevent fires from starting (2) to prevent 

injuries and the loss of life or property (3) confine and extinguish a fire to the place of origin (4) to train, 

plan and prepare for natural and manmade disasters (5) to extinguish unwanted fires. From the point of 

view of the City Government, this involves the services of fire prevention, firefighting, determining cause 

and origin, and efficient emergency management. 

To achieve true success, the Department must win and retain the confidence and respect of the public, 

which it serves. This can be accomplished only by a constant and earnest endeavor on the part of all 

members and employees of the Department to perform their duties in an efficient, honest, businesslike, and 

a professional manner, by exemplary conduct, and showing in the public mind that the Fire Department is a 

most vital requisite to public well-being. 

The rules and regulations herein set forth are compiled, adopted, and published by the Chief of the Fire 

Department for the information, guidance, government, discipline, and administration of the Fire 

Department of the City of Cleveland, Tennessee, and the members and employees of the Department as to 

obligations required of them in the proper performance of their duties. Any violation of these regulations 

shall be made the subject of disciplinary actions against all persons responsible for such violations, unless 

otherwise directed by the Fire Chief. 

These rules and regulations cannot (nor are they expected to) provide a solution to every question or 

problem that may arise in an organization designed and established to render emergency service. It is 

expected, however, that they will be sufficiently comprehensive, and provide the members and employees 

of the Cleveland Fire Department guidance as to their obligations and duties. 

They are not designed nor intended to limit any member or employee in the exercise of his judgment or 

initiative in taking reasonable action in extraordinary situations. By necessity much must be left to the 

loyalty, integrity and discretion of the members and employees. The degree to which individual members 

and employees demonstrate these qualities in the discharge of their duty, the Department will measure up to 

the highest standard required and expected by the citizens. 

All members and employees of the Fire Department are bound by these rules and regulations, regardless of 

the duties that may be assigned them. It shall be the duty of every member and employee to familiarize 

him/herself with the contents of these rules and regulations, and to conduct him/herself in accordance 

with their precepts. 

Effective: June 1, 1997 Revised: January 1, 2009 Page | 1 

Approved by: Chief Chuck Atchley



Cooperation 

No division or unit shall become so isolated from the other divisions or units of the Department so as to 

interfere with efficient inter-departmental relationship and morale. All members of the Department shall 

work together, always to obtain a higher degree of cooperation. 

Officers and Members to Know Rules and Regulations 

Policies and procedures delineated in this Manual of Rules and Regulations apply to all personnel as 

designated, and are issued for the purpose of effecting standardization. 

Supervisors are charged with the responsibility of acquiring a thorough knowledge of the subject matter 

contained herein, and with enforcing strict compliance therewith. No set of rules and regulations is 

workable or effective unless there is complete accord on the part of the supervisory officers in complying 

with, and enforcing them. Senior officers are encouraged to instruct subordinates frequently in the 

enforcement of the rules and regulations issued therewith. 

Lack of knowledge of any of the provisions of the rules and regulations will not be accepted as an 

excuse for failure to observe the rules. 

The right and power to amend, alter, rescind, or add to these rules and regulations, in whole or in part, is 

reserved by the Fire Chief, as from time to time the good of the service may require. 

Faithful performance of duty and exemplary conduct will be guiding factors in evaluation of the members 

of the Department for promotion and pay increases. 

All previous rules, regulations, and orders, in conflict with these rules and regulations, are hereby revoked. 

Attitude toward Profession 

The Fire Department members and employees shall regard the discharge of their duties as a public trust and 

recognize their responsibility to public service. By diligent study and sincere attention to self-improvement, 

they shall strive to make the best possible application of science to the fire service and strive for effective 

leadership and public influence in matters affecting public safety. They shall appreciate the importance and 

responsibility of their position, and hold the fire service to be an honorable profession, rendering valuable 

service to their community and their country. 





Introduction Message 

Purpose 

To provide a standard, written source of Departmental policies and procedures that will promote the 

effective and efficient operation of the Cleveland Fire Department. 

Objective 

To set forth and establish the Operations Manual for the Cleveland Fire Department and to explain its 

underlying philosophy. 

Scope 

These policies and guidelines apply to all members of the Cleveland Fire Department unless otherwise 

specified. 

Responsibility 

A. It shall be the responsibility of all members of the Cleveland Fire Department to familiarize 

themselves with, and conform to, the policies, regulations, and procedures contained within the 

Operations Manual. 

B. It shall be the responsibility of all Fire Department Officers to supervise and command their 

subordinates within the guidelines and philosophies contained within the Operations 

Manual. 





Policy 

The Cleveland Fire Department shall establish an Operations Manual containing written, standardized, 

operational policies, procedures, and regulations. This manual is for the use of every member of the 

Department, to help each person be a better representative of the profession and the department. The 

Department is judged by the performance of each individual member. Therefore, all of us should strive for 

a high level of fire service. Although most of the common and generally used operations are covered and 

the rules of good conduct are recorded, each firefighter and each incident must be considered separately. 

Therefore, this manual in no way should be interpreted as removing all of the discretionary powers of 

individual firefighters in individual situations. Wherever possible, Departmental policies and procedures 

must be followed. However, when the incident indicates the need to make a judgment decision, the 

firefighter is not, and cannot be restricted by this manual. No manual, however detailed, can be used as a 

substitute for good judgment. 

Upon appointment to the Department, it is most important that you fully realize the responsibilities 

imposed upon you and the confidence placed in you. It is not just a “job” to which you have been 

appointed. It is a position of Trust. The preservation and the safety of life and property are proof that a 

firefighter has been faithful to this trust. 

When you accept a position as a firefighter, you become a part of the municipal and state government. One 

of your many responsibilities is the enforcement of city ordinances and policies, and the laws of the State of 

Tennessee. 

You should also study these rules and regulations and be completely familiar with all the requirements of 

your position. This will not only make you a valuable asset to the Department and to the community, but 

also will prove to be an invaluable asset to you personally as you seek promotion to a higher rank in the 

Department. 





Authority 

A. Pursuant to the authority vested in the Fire Chief by State Law and Local Ordinance, the 

Operations Manual is hereby established as the standard, written reference source of Department 

Rules, Regulations, Policies, Procedures, and Operations. 

B. The contents of the Operations Manual shall supersede any conflicting information contained in 

any other Cleveland Fire Department publication. 

C. At no time will this document supersede the Cleveland City Code, City of Cleveland Personnel 

Rules and Regulations Handbook, State or Federal laws or any other policies approved by the City 

Manager or the City Council. 

Philosophy 

A. Policies in the form of reasonable guidelines are necessary for the proper operation of any 

organization. Such policies must be standardized in a workable, readable format, which is made 

available to all levels of the organization. 

B. Knowledge of the policies and procedures by Fire Department members is essential for the 

maintenance of discipline, and the development of teamwork and morale. 

C. The policies, procedures, and regulations contained within this Manual are intended to be 

reasonable and workable guidelines of a positive nature. 

D. The necessity for periodic review and revision of policies and operational procedures is 

recognized as a highly important component of this system. Such a process has been incorporated 

as part of this Manual. 

E. This Manual of Operations cannot be expected to provide a solution to every question or problem, 

which may arise in an organization established to provide an emergency service delivery system. 

It is expected, however, that it will be sufficiently comprehensive to cover, either in a specific or 

general way, the majority of operational and administrative activities, which involve the members 

of the Cleveland Fire Department. 

F. The existence of these written guidelines is not intended to limit any member in the exercise of 

judgment or initiative in taking the action a reasonable person would take in extraordinary 

situations which may arise in the fire service. Much, by necessity, must be left to the loyalty, 

integrity, and discretion of members. 

Keeping Informed 

Within twenty (20) days of issuance of this manual, it shall be the duty of every member of the Department 

to be thoroughly familiar with Department rules and regulations relating to their specific duties and 

responsibilities. 

Within sixty (60) days of issuance of this manual, every member of the Department shall be required to 

sign a statement that they have read and understood this manual. Failure of any member of the Department 

to comply will be deemed to be in neglect of duty and subject to disciplinary action. 





Revisions to Guidelines 

Purpose 

It is the purpose of this guideline to establish a procedure for the preparation, development, review, and for 

updating written guidelines and policies for the operation of the Fire Department. 

Objective 

To provide information, instructions and an outline so that Fire Department members may have the ability 

to write, review, or update the various guidelines contained in this handbook. 

Scope 

It is the prerogative of the management of the Fire Department to establish policies or guidelines. All 

Officers and members of the Fire Department are encouraged to participate in the development and revision 

of this handbook. Suggestions for new policies, guidelines or revisions to current guidelines are always 

welcome. 


For a policy to become effective it must be reviewed and signed by the Fire Chief. From time to time the 

Fire Chief may appoint individuals or groups to develop, review, or revise portions of this handbook. 

Policy 

It is the intent of the Fire Department to establish, in writing, guidelines and principles within which the 

members of the Fire Department shall operate. It is intended that these guidelines are to provide internal 

consistency in methods of operation, but not to limit the judgment of Officers when operating within the 

principles established by these guidelines. Policies that are in the City of Cleveland Personnel Manual 

should not conflict with and will take precedence over Fire Department policies. 





Chapter II 

Organizational Structure 

Organizational Structure 

Purpose 

A. To provide members with an understanding of the Cleveland Fire Department’s organizational 

structure. 

B. To provide members with an understanding of the various relationships and functions of the Fire 

Department’s subdivisions. 

Objective 

A. To provide a description of the formal organization of the Cleveland Fire Department. 

B. To promote better understanding of the Fire Department’s organization and functions. 

Policy 

A. The Operations Manual shall contain a description of the formal organization of the Fire 


B. Fire Department members shall be aware of the Department’s formal organizational structure and 

chain of command. 

Fire Department 

A. The administrative head of the Fire Department is the Fire Chief. 

B. The Fire Department is responsible for the protection of life and property from fire, explosion, 

hazardous materials, and other emergency incidents. 

C. The Fire Department provides a full range of services to the citizens of the community. These 

services include but may not be limited to: 

1. Fire suppression and rescue. 

2. Fire prevention and code enforcement. 

3. Fire investigation and arson 

4. Pre-fire planning. 

5. Public fire safety education. 

6. Disaster preparedness planning. 

7. Fire cause and origin and fire investigation. 

8. Vehicle Extrication. 





9. Confined Space and High-Angle rescue. 

10. Hazardous Materials response and mitigation. 

11. EMS First Response 

D. The Fire Department participates with neighboring jurisdictions in mutual aid for fire suppression. 

E. The Fire Department is divided into three major divisions; Operations, Fire Prevention and Fire 

Investigation. 

Operations Division 

A. The Operations Division is commanded by a Deputy Chief. The Deputy Chief reports directly to 

the Fire Chief and directly supervises the Battalion Commanders. 

B. The Fire Suppression function is commanded by three (3) Battalion Commanders. Each Battalion 

Commander is in charge of one of the three (3) Fire Suppression shifts. The Battalion 

Commanders directly supervise the Company Officers assigned to their particular shift. In 

addition, each Battalion Commander is charged with one or more administrative assignments. 

There will be at least one Captain at each station and at Headquarters. The Captain is charged with 

Station maintenance and administrative assignments and may also be responsible for moving into 

the Battalion Commander position in the absence of the Battalion Commander and shall bear all 

the duties and responsibilities of that position. 

C. Each shift or battalion is composed of a number of fire companies. The Fire Lieutenants who serve 

as Company Officers are the direct supervisors of the personnel assigned to the Fire Companies. 

D. The fire suppression battalions carry out numerous activities and functions including but not 

limited to: fire suppression, rescue, public assistance, fire company training, pre-fire planning, 

vehicle extrication, hazardous materials mitigation, fire prevention, public education, and 

maintenance of Fire Department apparatus, equipment, and facilities. 

E. The Training function is coordinated by the Training Captain. There is a Shift Instructor and an 

EMS Instructor for each shift to assist the Training Captain in the various training programs. The 

Training Captain establishes the Fire Department training program and the safety portion of the 

departmental program. 

F. The Safety Function is coordinated by the Training Captain with the functional title of Safety 

Officer. These duties may be transferred to other personnel as deemed necessary by the Fire 

Chief. The Safety Officer reports to the Fire Chief. The Safety Officer is responsible for the safety 

of all Fire Department personnel on or off the fire ground. 





Fire Prevention 

A. The Fire Prevention Division consists of a Fire Prevention Officer / Fire Investigator and Fire 

Inspectors. It is commanded by the Deputy Fire Chief, who reports to the Fire Chief. 

B. The activities that are accomplished in this division may include: fire prevention inspections, fire 

code development, fire protection planning, and public fire safety education, pre-fire planning, 

operation and scheduling of the Fire Safety House and the annual fire prevention program for 

schools. 

Fire Investigation and Arson 

A. The Fire Investigation Division consists of a Fire Investigator who reports to the Deputy Fire 

Chief. 

B. The activities that are accomplished in this division include fire cause and origin and the 

investigation and prosecution of arson. 

C. The Fire Investigator shall investigate suspicious fires, assist in training, fire prevention, public 

education or other duties as deemed necessary by the Deputy Fire Chief or Fire Chief. 





Fire Prevention Division 

Purpose 

To provide members with an understanding of the functions of the Fire Prevention Division. 

Objective 

A. To provide a description of the functions of the Fire Prevention Division. 

B. To establish guidelines to facilitate the functions of the Fire Prevention Division in an attempt to 

achieve the ultimate purpose of this division, this is to reduce life and property losses due to fire. 

Scope 

The Fire Prevention Division is coordinated by the Deputy Chief and includes Fire Inspectors, Fire 

Investigator, and the Training Captain. 


A. Fire prevention, life safety, and public education play an important role in the operations of the 

Fire Prevention Division. All Fire Department members, through a coordinated effort, are 

responsible for assisting the Fire Prevention Division in conducting the various programs that are 

provided for the citizens of Cleveland and Bradley County. 

B. The Fire Inspectors shall keep accurate records of all inspections made by the division, either by 

Company inspections or inspections done by individual inspectors. 

C. The Fire Inspectors shall make periodic Fire inspections of all occupancies, other than one and two 

family single unit dwellings. 

D. The Fire Inspectors shall be responsible for the enforcement of fire codes recognized by the Fire 

Department and the elimination of fire hazards. 

E. The Fire Inspectors shall assist the Training Captain in the education of all Fire Department 

personnel of special or peculiar hazards located within their districts. 

F. The Fire Inspectors shall keep such records and submit reports and recommendations as needed to 

properly inform the Fire Chief and other proper authorities of the activities of the Inspections 


G. The Fire Inspectors shall submit a monthly report to the Fire Chief of the activities of the 

Inspections Division that shall be forwarded to the City Manager. 





Inspect and Issue Burn Permits 

Burning permits are not issued within the City of Cleveland corporate limits except under special 

circumstances as defined in, Title 20, Chapter 11, Section 20-1101 through 20-1106 of the Code of 

Ordinances of the City of Cleveland, Tennessee. 

Inspect and Issue Blasting Permits 

It is the responsibility of the Fire Inspector to inspect blasting sites and to issue the permits for blasting at 

these sites. 

Inspection Fees 

A. Initial inspection fee for child/adult daycares $50.00 

B. Additional or annual inspection fee for child/adult daycares $25.00 

C. Initial above and underground flammable and combustible storage $50.00 

D. Additional or annual inspection fee for above and underground flammable 

and combustible storage $25.00 

E. Initial alcohol permit $30.00 

F. Business inspection, change of occupancy $25.00 

G. Restaurant hood systems, fire alarm systems, and sprinkler systems 

(plan review, initial inspection, and final inspection) $50.00 

H. Additional restaurant hood systems, fire alarm systems, and sprinkler systems $25.00 

Public Education 

A. This section shall be the responsibility of the Fire Prevention Division. 

B. It is the responsibility of the Fire Prevention Division to create and present fire prevention and life 

safety education programs in the community. 

C. This Division shall supervise the distribution of fire prevention and life safety literature. 

D. This Division shall perform public relations activities in the community. 

E. This Division shall supervise fire drills at Schools. 

Pre-Fire Planning 

A. This section shall be the responsibility of the Deputy Chief and the Battalion Commanders. 

B. This Division shall supervise company pre-fire planning operations on target occupancies. 

C. This Division shall be responsible for maintaining books and a computerized data base of pre-plan 

information in designated areas. 





Handling Civilian Complaints 

A. This section shall be the responsibility of the Deputy Chief 

B. All persons bringing complaints shall be treated with courtesy at all times. 

C. An attempt shall be made to resolve all complaints to the mutual satisfaction of the complainant 

and the Fire Department. If this is not possible, politely explain the governing Fire Department 

policy. If necessary, direct them to the Fire Chief to possibly effect a change in the policy. 





Fire Investigation Division 

Purpose 

A. To insure the investigation of all fires occurring within the jurisdiction of the Cleveland Fire 


B. To initiate a system of fire investigation, which begins at the Company level and progresses to 

higher organizational levels, as necessary, based on the situation. 

Objective 

To provide policy guidelines and procedures relative to the fire investigation process at the Fire Company 

level and to establish a fire investigation network coordinated by the Incident Commander and the Fire 

Investigator. 

Scope 

All Cleveland Fire Department personnel shall adhere to this policy. 


A. It is the overall responsibility of the Incident Commander to determine cause and origin and 

initiate an on-scene fire investigation. 

B. The Incident Commander, who may be conducting the investigation, is responsible for requesting 

the Fire Investigator for investigation whenever such circumstances may exist. 

C. It is the responsibility of all Fire Department personnel to be alert for any evidence of incendiaries 

or other suspicious causes and to preserve such evidence until it can be properly photographed and 

collected. 

D. In unusual circumstances the Incident Commander or the Fire Investigator may request the Fire 

Inspector for assistance in fire cause and origin determination. 

E. In cases of possible Code violations the Incident Commander shall request the Fire Inspector. 

F. The Incident Commander shall be as detailed as possible on the Incident Report as to the cause 

and origin of the fire. 

Policy 

A. It is the policy of the Cleveland Fire Department to make every effort to determine the cause and 

origin of all fires. 

B. Incident Commanders shall initiate the investigation of those fires that they respond to within their 

jurisdiction. 

C. The Incident Commander shall determine, to the best of his/her ability, the cause and origin of all 

fires. 





D. The Incident Commander shall request the Fire Investigator to conduct an investigation whenever 

any of the following circumstances exist: 

Procedure 

1. All incendiary fires or whenever there is any suspicion of incendiaries or arson. 

2. Fires with a fatality. 

3. False alarms in which there is a possible suspect. 

4. Bomb threats and explosions. 

5. Request by the owner of the property that the fire be investigated. 

6. Any other situation in which the Incident Commander determines a need requiring 

immediate investigation by the Fire Investigator. 

7. Only the Fire Chief or his designee shall have the authority to request assistance from the 

State Fire Marshal’s Office. 

A. During firefighting operations, be alert for conditions which may indicate incendiaries. 

B. Begin fire investigation procedures as soon as possible. 

C. Endeavor first to determine the point of origin. 

D. Endeavor to determine the cause of the fire. 

E. Conduct overall operations with care, as directed by Command. 

F. Preserve all possible evidence which may be found. 

G. Secure overall operations, as far as may be practical, until the arrival of the Fire Investigator. 

H. Only authorized fire and police personnel shall be permitted in the building until permitted by the 

Incident Commander or the Fire Investigator. 

I. If the fire is of a suspicious nature, no information concerning the fire shall be released except 

location, time of call, number of personnel, and number of apparatus responding, until authorized. 

The fire shall be classified as “under investigation” until other information is released by the Fire 

Chief or his/her designee. 

J. Only the Fire Chief or his/her designee may release the cause of a fire under investigation to 

anyone. 





Chapter III Promotions 

Promotion Policy 

Purpose 

Establish a policy on promotions within the Cleveland Fire Department. 

Objective 

To insure that all promotions made within the Cleveland Fire Department are made by a fair and nondiscriminating 

selection process. The Cleveland Fire Department does not discriminate on the basis of race, 

age, sex, religion, national origin, or disability. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all uniformed line promotions within the Cleveland Fire Department. 


The Fire Chief and the City Manager are responsible for the enforcement of this policy. 

Policy 

Fire Chief 

The Fire Chief will be selected by the City Manager. 

Deputy Fire Chief and Battalion Commander 

Requires Firefighter II Certification, Pumper/Driver Operator** Certification, First Responder 

Certification, Fire Officer I Certification, Fire Instructor I Certification, a valid Tennessee Drivers License, 

completion of ten (10) years line experience with a minimum of five (5) years as a Company Officer and a 

fire related 2 year degree or equal experience. The candidate must also demonstrate administrative and 

computer skills. 

A. Candidates shall submit a resume to the Fire Chief. 

B. Qualified candidates may then be required to participate in an assessment center. 

C. The Fire Chief will make the promotion based on the resumes and the results of the assessment 

center (if used). 

Effective: June 1, 1997 Revised: 5/14/2009 Page | 15 




All Other Officers 

Application and Qualifying 

This promotion policy will be used in making promotions to the positions of Driver/Engineer, Lieutenant, 

and Captain. Administrative promotions (i.e. Secretary, Training Coordinator, Fire Inspector, Fire 

Investigator, etc.) will be based on education and/or experience in that particular field and will be chosen 

by the Fire Chief. 

The open position may be offered to existing personnel already holding the rank whenever possible and 

when it will not disrupt the operations of the Department. 

Announcement of any opening for one of these covered positions, and the applicable job description, pay 

grade, and shift and station assignment (whenever possible) will be posted in each fire station for a period 

of at least thirty (30) days before the application deadline. 

It is the responsibility of each employee to prepare themselves in advance for promotions. Job 

descriptions, including required qualifications, are subject to change at any time. Changes will be posted in 

advance, whenever possible, to enable the applicant to obtain proper qualifications before job posting. 

Employees interested in a posted job opening must submit a written request to be considered for promotion 

to the Fire Chief before the application deadline indicated on the job announcement. Applications received 

after the deadline will not be considered. 

If an applicant does not meet the job requirements for the opening, they shall be promptly notified of the 

reason (s) for disqualification. 

All new promotions will be under a six (6) month probationary period. 

All applicants must meet the following minimum criteria: 





Promotion Criteria 

New Firefighter (Probationary) – Requires Firefighter I Certification* within Twelve (12) months of going 

on active duty. 

Firefighter – Requires Firefighter I Certification*, First Responder Certification* and completion within 

Eighteen (18) months of service. Firefighter II Certification* is required within Thirty (30) months of hire 

date. 

Driver/Engineer – Requires Firefighter II Certification, Pumper/Driver Operator** Certification, First 

Responder Certification, a valid Tennessee Drivers License and completion of three (3) years line 

experience. 

Lieutenant – Requires Firefighter II Certification, Pumper/Driver Operator** Certification, First Responder 

Certification, Fire Instructor I, Fire Officer I Certification, a valid Tennessee Drivers License and 

completion of five (5) years line experience. 

Captain – Requires Firefighter II Certification, Pumper/Driver Operator** Certification, First Responder 

Certification, Fire Officer I Certification, Fire Instructor I Certification, a valid Tennessee Drivers License 

and completion of seven (7) years line experience with a minimum of three (3) years as a Company Officer. 

Only those “qualified” at the time of testing shall be allowed to take the promotional test. The term 

“qualified” shall include the required years of service (if applicable), completion of all required 

certifications, and/or and completion of all educational requirements. Under unusual circumstances; 

i.e., applicant does not have required years of service and the position must be filled; the Fire Chief 

may alter this qualification if he deems it necessary in order to fill the position. 

The Cleveland Fire Department will make every effort to aid and assist firefighters in obtaining all 

required certifications in a timely manner. However, it is ultimately the individual firefighter’s 

responsibility to obtain all necessary certifications within the required time. 

** Fire Apparatus Operator Certification will also satisfy this requirement 





Selection Criteria 

A. Seniority 

Seniority is defined as length of service with the Cleveland Fire Department. Additional seniority 

with the City of Cleveland in any position will not be considered. Evaluation of seniority shall be 

based on the following system. Employees shall be given (1) point for each year of service up to a 

maximum of (25) years of service. Seniority will be calculated from anniversary date to 

anniversary date, only full years of service will be calculated. 

B. Written Exam 

All applicants for most promotional positions must undergo a written examination to measure jobrelated 

knowledge, skills, and abilities. This exam will count as 25 percent of a candidate’s total 

score. A passing score of 70 must be attained in order to continue in the process. 

C. Practical Assessment 

Applicants for a Driver/Engineer, Lieutenant, and Captain will go through a practical assessment 

administered by the Cleveland Fire Department Training Division. An assessment center may be 

used for a Captain position as a form of practical evaluation. The practical assessment will count 

as 25 percent of a candidate’s total score and applicants will be scored from 0 and 100. 

D. Interview 

An interview panel consisting of the Deputy Chief and three Officers at the rank of Captain or 

above will be formed to interview each candidate. This interview will be valued at 25 percent of 

the total score and applicants will be scored between 0 and 100. This score will be combined with 

the scores from the written test, the practical test and the seniority score to arrive at a numerical 

ranking of the applicants. 

E. The top three names will then be forwarded to the Fire Chief for consideration. The Fire Chief, 

with the approval of the City Manager, will choose one of the three finalists for the promotion. 

Scores and Weights 

Final scoring of the selection criteria is based on scores received on each individual element multiplied by 

the respective weight and summed for each candidate to produce a final weighted selection criteria score. 

The following list contains each element and its weight: 

A. Seniority . 250 

B. Written Exam . 250 

C. Practical Assessment . 250 

D. Interview . 250 

Total 100% 





Job Descriptions 

Purpose 

The following pages deal with job descriptions for the various ranks within the Cleveland Fire Department. 

They are intended as a guideline for personnel to use in defining duties, responsibilities, authority, and job 

requirements among the various ranks and positions within the Department. 

Staff personnel and heads of the various divisions within the Department shall comply with the job 

description for their rank as established for that division or staff function by the Fire Chief, and the 

description of duties and responsibilities as stated in the division descriptions for their respective divisions. 

Fire Chief 

Reports to: City Manager 

FLSA Status: Exempt 

Summary 

Manages the City Fire Department by performing the following duties personally or through the 

performance of others. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned. 

Develops, plans, and implements fire department goals, objectives, rules, regulations, and work methods 

that comply with Federal, State, and local laws in response to assessment of community needs. 

Establishes, within policy guidelines, appropriate service and staffing levels. 

Manages fire and emergency response activities, personnel, and programs. 

Provides consultation and staff assistance to City Manager, City Council, and other governmental officials. 

Supervises and participates in the development and administration of the fire department budget. 

Directs the selection, supervision, training, development, and discipline of department personnel. 

Evaluates fire prevention and fire control policies by keeping abreast of new methods and conducting 

studies of departmental operations. 

May assume command at multiple alarm fires. 

Coordinates mutual fire protection plans, emergency responses, and other department activities with 

surrounding jurisdictions, other departments, and organizations. 

Confers with officials and community groups and conducts public relations campaigns. 

Directs investigations into causes of fires and inspections of buildings for fire hazards. 

Coordinates and prepares a variety of plans, reports, presentations, and records. 





Supervisory Responsibilities 

Supervises the Deputy Fire Chief who supervises a total of 95 employees. Is responsible for the overall 

direction, coordination, and evaluation of this unit. Also directly supervises one non-supervisory 

employee. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and 

applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, 

and directing work; appraising performance, rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints 

and resolving problems. 

Qualifications 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. 

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. A Fire 

Chief will be required to use a computer therefore making computer literacy a necessity. Reasonable 

accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Education and/or Experience 

The City Manager shall determine the education requirements for this position. 

Language Skills 

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical 

procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure 

manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, 

clients, customers, and the general public. 

Mathematical Skills 

Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, 

area, circumference, and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry. 

Reasoning Ability 

Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an 

extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract 

and concrete variables. 

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations 

All certifications required of Deputy Chief and a valid Tennessee driver’s license. 





Physical Demands 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to 

successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to 

enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee 

frequently is required to stand, walk, and sit. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, 

handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 

pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job 

include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust 

focus. 

Work Environment 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters 

while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable 

individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid 

conditions; moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; toxic or caustic 

chemicals; outside weather conditions; extreme heat; risk of electrical shock; explosives; and risk of 

radiation. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. 

Deputy Fire Chief 

Reports to: Fire Chief 


Summary 

Manages the day-to-day operations and supervisory responsibilities of the Fire Department by performing 

the following duties either personally or through the direction of others. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following: Other duties may be assigned. 

Plans, oversees, and evaluates daily operations of the Fire Department; ensures proper staffing, coordinates 

assignment of personnel and equipment as necessary and ensures compliance with standing orders. 

Develops and recommends operating policies and procedures. 

Maintains thorough knowledge of all City, State, and Federal laws and regulations relating to the activities 

of a fire department, and of standing orders of the Department. 

Maintains thorough knowledge of hydraulics as applied to fire fighting, building constructions and related 

codes, electric power codes, and location of hazardous occupancies in the City. 

Prepares clear, concise reports as needed. 

Performs the duties of the Chief in that individual’s absence. 






Manages three Fire Battalion Commanders who supervise all employees on each shift. Supervises the 

Training Division, Inspections Division and Fire Investigations Division. Responsible for the overall 

direction, coordination, and evaluation of these units. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in 

accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, 

hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding 

and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems. 



The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. A Deputy 

Chief will be required to use a computer therefore making computer literacy a necessity. Reasonable 



A minimum of an A.A. fire-related degree from an accredited college or university plus eight to ten years 

related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. 














All required certifications of the highest ranking officer under his/her supervision and a valid Tennessee 

driver’s license. 










frequently is required to stand, walk, and sit. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, 

handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 

pounds and occasionally lift and/or move more than 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this 

job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to 

adjust focus. 







chemicals; outside weather conditions; extreme heat; risk of electrical shock, explosives; and risk of 

radiation. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. 

Fire Inspector 

Reports To: Deputy Chief 

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt 

Summary 

Inspects buildings and equipment to detect fire hazards and enforce local ordinances and state laws by 

performing the following duties. 


Conducts comprehensive technical inspections of buildings and property to verify that exits, fire protection 

equipment and systems, building construction, interior finishes and decorations, and occupant loads 

conform to applicable fire and safety laws, regulations, and standards. 

Conducts comprehensive inspections of businesses that handle, process, transport, or store hazardous 

materials to ensure compliance with applicable fire and safety laws, regulations, and standards. 

Explains and interprets provisions of fire codes to building owners, managers, and employers. 

Discusses conditions and recommends safe methods of storing flammables or other hazardous materials. 

Informs owner or manager of conditions requiring correction. 

Observes tests of equipment such as gasoline storage tanks and air compressors, and inspects storage 

conditions to ensure conformance to fire and safety codes. 





Issues permits to attest to safe operating conditions. 

Prepares report of violations or unsafe conditions. 

Issues summons for fire hazards not corrected on subsequent inspection and enforces code when owner 

refuses to cooperate. 

Provides court testimony regarding fire code violations. 

Checks engineering and construction plans of commercial, industrial, and other designated structures to 

evaluate layout, construction, and inclusion of required fire protection systems and equipment. 

Checks plans, constructions, and use of underground storage tanks for compliance with fire and safety 

standards. 

Conducts inspections and acceptance tests for fire protection equipment, automatic fire sprinkler systems, 

fire alarm systems, and similar devices. 

Provides technical advice to contractors, architects, engineers, and developers on sprinkler systems, storage 

systems, hazardous materials, and related fire code issues. 

Reviews and approves plans, issues permits, and conducts inspections of special events such as exhibits, 

fairs, conventions, concerts, and carnivals. 

Keeps file of inspection records and prepares reports of activities. 


Carries out any supervisory responsibilities placed upon them, in accordance with the organization’s 

policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include training employees; planning, assigning and 

directing work; appraising performance; addressing complaints and resolving problems. 



The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. A Fire 

Inspector will be required to use a computer therefore making computer literacy a necessity. Reasonable 

accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties. 


A.A. degree from a two-year college or university with a concentration in fire science, public 

administration or related fields; and five to eight years related experience, preferably with a strong 

background in fire prevention and code enforcement. 






Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical journals, financial reports, and legal 

documents. Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies, or 

members of the business community. Ability to write speeches and articles for publication that conform to 

prescribed style and format. Ability to effectively present information to top management, public groups, 

and/or boards of directors. 


Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, 







Tennessee Fire Inspector’s license, Building Inspector’s license, Plan Reviewer’s license and a valid 

Tennessee Drivers license. 





While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear and taste or smell. 

The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands 

and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee is occasionally required to sit. The employee 

must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move more than 100 pounds. 

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral 

vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. 





While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to outside weather conditions. 

The employee is occasionally exposed to set and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; high, 

precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; toxic or caustic chemicals; extreme cold; extreme heat; risk 

of electrical shock; explosives; risk of radiation, and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is 

usually moderate, but is sometimes quiet and sometimes loud. 





Fire Training Captain 

Reports to: Deputy Fire Chief 

FLSA Status: Nonexempt 

Summary 

Develops and administers training programs for the Fire Department by performing the following duties 

either personally or through the direction of others. 


Designs and implements comprehensive training programs for all phases of firefighting in which the 

incumbent maintains knowledge and/or skills. 

Maintains knowledge of City, State and Federal health, safety and human resources laws and regulations. 

Maintains knowledge of skills used to fight fires, use of special equipment, and fire professional standards. 

Maintains knowledge of specialized areas of fire suppression, survival techniques, and hazardous materials. 

Administers training records systems. 

Sets up and maintains training facilities. 

Studies and develops skill in use of better teaching and training methods. 

Performs the duties of Firefighter when necessary. 


This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities, but has the authority to conduct training classes. 



The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. A 

Training Coordinator will be required to use a computer therefore making computer literacy a necessity. 

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential 

functions. 


A.A. or equivalent from two-year college or university is preferred; or five to ten years related experience 

and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. 















Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret and 




Firefighter I and II, Fire Instructor I, Company Officer, Safety Officer, Driver/Engineer and a valid 

Tennessee driver’s license. 





While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to 

fingers, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; talk or 

hear; and taste or smell. The employee must frequently lift and/or move more than 100 pounds. Specific 

vision ability required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth 

perception, and ability to adjust focus. 







chemicals; outside weather conditions; extreme heat; risk of electrical shock; explosives risk of radiation; 

and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, but loud to very loud 

conditions are prevalent during fire alarms, live fire training sessions, proceeding to emergencies and on the 

scene of an emergency situation. 





Fire Battalion Commander 

Reports To: Deputy Fire Chief 


Summary 

Directs and coordinates firefighting and administrative activities of a battalion of fire companies within the 

fire department by performing the following duties either personally or through the direction of others. 


Determines plan of action of fire companies responding to calls in fire, salvage, and rescue operations. 

Enters fire site to coordinate and supervise firefighting activities of companies on-site, and reports events to 

supervisor. 

Keeps records and makes operational and personnel reports. 

Directs rescue and evacuation activities. 

Determines need for additional personnel and apparatus to control and extinguish fires. 

Determines when fire is extinguished and fire grounds are secure. 

Determines cause and origin of fire when possible. 

Evaluates operations and practices used in fighting fires. 

Performs the duties of firefighter when necessary. 

Directs personnel in use of firefighting equipment. 

Inspects fire stations, equipment, personnel, and records of assigned companies to ensure efficiency and 

enforcement of departmental regulations. 


Manages all Captains who manage all Lieutenants and subordinates. They are responsible for the overall 

direction, coordination, and evaluation of these units. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in 

accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, 

hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding 

and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems. 








Battalion Commander will be required to use a computer therefore making computer literacy a necessity. 


functions. 


A minimum of an A.A. degree from an accredited college or university is preferred, plus eight to ten years 

supervisory experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. 










Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only 

limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, 

diagram, or schedule form. 


Firefighter I and II, First Responder, Driver/Engineer, Company Officer I, Fire Instructor I, Hazardous 

Materials Technician and a valid Tennessee driver’s license. 





While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is 

occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; 

and taste or smell. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or 

crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move 

more than 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, 

peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. 











chemicals; outside weather conditions; extreme heat, risk of electrical shock; explosives; risk of radiation; 


conditions are prevalent during fire alarms, proceeding to emergencies and on the scene of an emergency 

situation. 

Fire Captain 

Reports to: Fire Battalion Commander 


Summary 

Supervises and coordinates the emergency and non-emergency activities of a fire battalion on an assigned 

shift by performing the following duties. 


Plans, schedules and directs work assignments for the personnel at a Fire Station. 

Plans, assigns, schedules, directs, and participates in station and equipment maintenance, fire prevention, 

inspection, medical services, and other assignments of the company. 

Inspects station house, buildings, grounds, and facilities, and examines fire trucks and equipment, such as 

ladders and hoses, to ensure compliance with departmental maintenance standards. 

Contains, controls, and decontaminates hazardous materials spills. 

Responds to fire alarms and directs the work of Firefighters until arrival of a superior officer. 

Schedules, directs and participates in pre-fire surveys, residential, commercial and industrial fire 

inspections. 

Directs the activities of the fire company in the training of firefighting, rescue and resuscitation. 

Instructs in training programs and drills. 

Keeps records and makes operational and personnel reports. 

Drives and operates fire equipment as necessary. 

Performs the duties of firefighter when necessary. 

Performs the duties of the Fire Battalion Commander in that individual’s absence if necessary. 





Directs maintenance and related work at assigned station. 


Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. 

Responsibilities include training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising 

performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems. 



The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. A Captain 

will be required to use a computer therefore making computer literacy a necessity. Reasonable 



A.A. from an accredited college or university is preferred plus six to eight years supervisory experience, or 

equivalent combination of education and experience. 





clients, customers, and the general public 









Firefighter I and II, First Responder, Driver/Engineer, Company Officer I, Fire Instructor I, Hazardous 

Materials Technician and a valid Tennessee driver’s license. 










frequently is required to stand; walk, sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; 

climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell. The employee must regularly lift 

and/or move up to 25 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or 

move more than 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance 

vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. 







chemicals; outside weather conditions; extreme heat; risk of electrical shock; explosives; risk of radiation; 


conditions are prevalent during fire alarms, proceeding to emergencies and on the scene of an emergency 

situation. 

Fire Lieutenant 

Reports To: Battalion Commander or Fire Captain 


Summary 

Supervises and coordinates the emergency and non-emergency activities of a fire station on an assigned 

shift by performing the following duties. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned as necessary. 

Plans, schedules, and directs work assignments for the personnel at the station. 

Plans, assigns, schedules, directs, and participates in station and equipment maintenance, fire prevention, 

inspection, and other assignments of the company. 

Inspects station house, building, grounds, and facilities, and examines fire trucks and equipment, such as 

ladders and hoses, to ensure compliance with departmental maintenance standards. 


Responds to fire alarms and directs the work of Firefighters until the arrival of a superior officer. 

Directs and participates in pre-fire surveys, residential, commercial and industrial fire inspections. 





Directs the activities of the fire company in the training of firefighting, rescue and resuscitation. 

Instructs in training programs and drills. 

Keeps records and makes operational personnel reports. 

Drives and operates fire equipment as necessary. 

Performs the duties of Firefighter when necessary. 


Directly supervises Driver/Engineers and Firefighters. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in 

accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include training 

employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining 

employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems. 




Lieutenant will be required to use a computer therefore making computer literacy a necessity. Reasonable 

accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. 


Associate’s degree (A.A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school plus four to six years 

related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. 















Certificates, Licenses, Registration 



Firefighter I and II, Driver/Engineer, First Responder, Company Officer I, Hazardous Materials Technician, 

Fire Instructor I and a valid Tennessee driver’s license. 






frequently is required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; 

climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell. The employee must regularly lift 

and/or move up to 25 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or 

move more than 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance 

vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. 







chemicals; outside weather conditions; extreme heat; risk of electrical shock; explosives, risk of radiation; 

and vibration. 

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, but loud to very loud conditions are prevalent 

during fire alarms, proceeding to emergencies and on the scene of an emergency situation. 

Driver/Engineer 

Reports To: Captain or Lieutenant 


Summary 

Operates and maintains a variety of specialized firefighting equipment used in controlling and 

extinguishing fires and evacuating and rescuing persons from dangerous areas by performing the following 

duties. 






Drives and positions fire pumping and aerial ladder trucks in emergency situations. 

Places initial hose lines and operates, adjusts, and controls pumping equipment, aerial ladders, and other 

apparatus at fires. 

Regulates water pressure to ensure necessary water pressure. 

Inspects, maintains, and makes minor repairs to equipment. 

Identifies the need for major repairs to equipment. 

Maintains records and prepares reports relating to maintenance, inspection, and usage of fire apparatus and 

equipment. 

Participates in inspections, drills, and training activities. 

Uses a variety of hand and power tools, equipment, and work aids in all phases of firefighting and rescue 

work. 

Tests and maintains power tools and equipment. 

Operates communication equipment. 

Rescues individuals and animals from situations in which they are physically trapped. 


Performs a variety of salvage and cleanup operations, including removing water, chemicals, and debris. 

Maintains apparatus, quarters, buildings, equipment, grounds, and hydrants. 

Participates in drills, demonstrations, and courses in hydraulics, pump operation and maintenance, and 

firefighting techniques. 

Performs the duties of the Lieutenant in that individual’s absence if ordered to do by a supervisor. 

Performs the duties of a firefighter when not operating or maintaining apparatus. 


This job has no regular supervisory responsibilities. 






To perform this job successfully, and individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. 

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. This job 

may require computer use therefore computer literacy is necessary. Reasonable accommodations may be 

made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 


High school diploma or general education degree (GED) plus four years related experience and/or training; 

or equivalent combination of education and experience. 


Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and 

procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively 

before groups of customers or employees of organization. 


Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common 

fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs. 



limited standardization exists. The ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar 

graphs. The ability to figure friction loss and nozzle pressures for hose lines. 


Firefighter I and II, Driver/Engineer, First Responder and a valid Tennessee driver’s license. 




enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this 

job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. 

The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with 

hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell. The employee must 

regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and occasionally 

lift and/or move more than 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, 

distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to focus. 






The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those and employee encounters 


individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the 

employee frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; high, precarious 

places; fumes or airborne particles; toxic or caustic chemicals; outside weather conditions; extreme heat; 

risk of electrical shock; and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to explosives and risk of 

radiation. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, but loud to very loud conditions 

are prevalent during fire alarms, proceeding to emergencies and on the scene of an emergency situation. 

Firefighter 

Reports To: Lieutenant or Captain 


Summary 

Responds to fires and other emergency situations to protect life and property by performing the following 

duties. 


Responds to fires, traffic collisions, and rescue situations. 

Performs extrications when necessary. 

Calls for medical aid to provide pre-hospital care when necessary. 

Connects supply lines, and controls and extinguishes fires using hand lines, deck, ladders, and portable 

water monitors. 

Applies foam and chemicals for fire suppression and control. 

Searches buildings and rescues victims from buildings and motor vehicles using appropriate hand and 

power tools. 


Performs a variety of salvage and cleanup operations, including removing water, chemicals, and debris. 

Maintains apparatus, quarters, building, equipment, grounds, and hydrants. 

Participates in drills, demonstrations, and courses in life support, emergency medical treatment, and 

firefighting techniques. 

Prepares required reports and maintains records of activities. 

Cleans and performs minor maintenance to assigned emergency vehicle. 

If certified or licensed, performs the following additional duties for which they are qualified: 





Administers initial treatment at emergency scene and takes and records patient’s vital signs. 

Assesses nature and extent of illness or injury to establish necessary medical procedures or need for 

additional assistance. 

Restores and stabilizes heart rhythm on pulse-less, non-breathing patient. 

Assists in extricating trapped victims. 

Keeps current on treatment techniques, protocol changes, and application of new drugs, material, and 

equipment. 

Requisitions and restocks supplies, material, and equipment. 


This job has no supervisory responsibilities. 



The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. 


functions. 


High school diploma or general education degree (GED). 


Ability to read and interpret documents such s safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and 







Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written oral, or diagram 

form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations. 


Firefighter I, Firefighter II, First Responder, and a valid Tennessee driver’s license 










frequently is required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; 

climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell. 

The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 

pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move more than 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this 

job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to 

adjust focus. 





While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid 


chemicals; outside weather condition; extreme heat; risk of electrical shock; and vibration. The employee 

is occasionally exposed to explosives and risk of radiation. The noise level in the work environment is 

usually moderate, but loud to very loud conditions are prevalent during fire alarms, proceeding to 

emergencies and on the scene of an emergency situation. 

Administrative Assistant 

Reports To: Fire Chief 


Summary 

Schedules appointments, gives information to callers, takes dictation, and otherwise relieves supervisor of 

clerical work and minor administrative and business detail by performing the following duties. 


Reads and routes incoming mail. Locates and attaches appropriate file to correspondence to be answered 

by supervisor. 

Takes dictation in shorthand or by machine and transcribes notes on typewriter or computer, or transcribes 

from voice recordings. 

Composes and types routine correspondence. 

Organizes and maintains file system, and files correspondence and other records. 

Answers and screen telephone calls and arranges conference calls. 





Coordinates supervisor’s schedule and makes appointments. 

Greets visitors and conducts to appropriate area or person. 

Arranges and coordinates travel schedules and reservations. 

Conducts research, compiles and types statistical reports. 

Reconciles City credit card charges with statements received; resolves or reports discrepancies. 

Produces special reports as requested. 

Coordinates and arranges meetings, prepares agendas, reserves and prepares facilities, and records and 

transcribes minutes of meetings. 

Make copies of correspondence or other printed materials. 

Prepares outgoing mail and correspondence; including e-mail and faxes. 

Orders and maintains supplies and arranges for equipment maintenance if necessary. 






requires the extensive use of a computer therefore excellent computer literacy is a necessity. Reasonable 



High school diploma or general education degree (GED) plus one year of related experience and/or 

training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. 


Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and 











Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or 

diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations. 




enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this 

job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear. The 

employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or 

crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required 

by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and 

ability to adjust focus. 


The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those and employee encounters 



The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. 

Arson Investigator 

Reports To: Deputy Chief 


Summary 

Investigates and analyzes evidence of fires to determine causes and testifies as expert witness in court by 

performing the following duties. 


Examines sites of fires and collects evidence to ascertain causes of fires. 

Photographs fire damage and evidence of fire causes and stores evidence in vault. 

Questions persons reporting fires, firefighters, police, and others to obtain information. 

Compiles investigation results, determines probably causes of fire, and reports results to superiors. 

Cooperates with police and insurance companies to investigate reports of fires and stolen flammable 

materials. 

Swears out warrants for arrest for suspected arsonists. 

Gives testimony in court cases involving fires, suspected arson, and false fire alarms. 





Maintains records of convicted arsonists and arson suspects. 

Responds to calls from schools and parents to instruct children in danger of fires. 




To perform this job successfully, and individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. 


requires the use of a computer therefore computer literacy is a necessity. Reasonable accommodations may 

be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 


A.A. degree from an accredited college or university; plus four to six years related experience, or 

equivalent combination of education and experience. 








Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference, and fundamentals 

of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, 

ratios, and proportions to practical situations. 






Firefighter I & II, First Responder, State Fire Inspector and Arson Investigator licenses or certifications, a 

valid Tennessee driver’s license. 


The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by and employee to 















Chapter IV General Orders 

General Operations 

Purpose 

To promote the safe, efficient, and effective operation of all Fire Stations. 

Objective 

To provide policy and guidelines for safe, efficient, and effective Fire Station Operations. 

Scope 

All members shall abide by the guidelines contained within this policy. 


The Station Captain at each station shall be in charge of, and responsible for, the Fire Station which houses 

their respective companies. Lieutenants at all stations shall be under the command of the Station Captain 

for the purpose of station and equipment maintenance and inspections. 

Policy 

Each Fire Station shall be maintained and operated in a manner, which promotes efficiency, good 

appearance, and safety to the members assigned there and to the public. 

Security 

A. The Station Captains and the Company Officers at all stations shall be responsible for overall Fire 

Station security. 

B. All members shall be mindful of Station security and abide by all those policies, which concern 

the same. 

C. During normal business hours (Monday through Friday, 0800 to 1700 hours), and when occupied, 

the Station shall be open to the public with all necessary lighting on. 

D. When the fire station is not occupied, those areas open to the public, shall be secured, with doors 

and windows locked. 

E. When responding to an emergency and the station is left unattended Engine Bay doors shall be 

closed. In cold weather when Engine Bay heaters are in use all doors are to be closed when 

responding to an emergency. 

E. Business hours may be altered for specific functions, as may be necessary to better serve the 

public. 

F. If it is discovered that any part of a Fire Station, its contents, or grounds have been damaged, 

stolen, or vandalized, the Station Captain or the Shift Lieutenant shall be notified immediately. 





G. The Station Captain or the Shift Lieutenant shall notify the Battalion Commander and shall submit 

a written report whenever damage, vandalism, or theft has taken place at a Fire Station. The 

Battalion Commander shall then notify the Deputy Chief and shall coordinate with the Police or 

Sheriff’s Department, as necessary, in such cases. 

Safety 

A. The Station Captain or the Shift Lieutenant shall be responsible for the overall safe operation of 

the Fire Station under his charge. 

B. All members shall immediately correct and/or report to the Station Captain or the Shift Lieutenant 

any safety problems that they may observe in the Fire Station. 

C. Members shall use care and all available safeguards when using power equipment, tools, and 

electrical equipment in Fire Stations. 

D. Personnel using electrical tools, appliances, etc. shall plug the cord into the appropriate receptacle. 

If the item requires a grounded receptacle, the item shall be connected to such. No person shall 

alter any electrical plug or receptacle (this includes using an adapter, which allows a three-prong 

plug to be used on a two-prong outlet) without prior consent of the Deputy Chief or Fire Chief. 

E. Members shall use care in the storage of tools, equipment, and supplies so as not to block any 

access or egress nor impede the response to alarms. 

F. In areas where chemicals, gasoline, etc., are stored or used, an up-to-date book of MSDS sheets 

shall be kept. Inclusive in the MSDS sheets will be sheets on by-products of the chemicals or fuels 

used (i.e., CO2, welding fumes, etc.). This is the responsibility of the Station Captains at all 

stations. 

Visitors 

A. Station visitors shall be treated with due respect and shall be escorted while in quarters. 

B. The Station Captain or the Station Lieutenant at the all stations shall be notified of station visitors. 

C. Entrance into quarters for the purpose of soliciting shall not be allowed. 

D. Visitors are allowed only in public areas of the stations and shall be escorted in unauthorized areas 

only if approved by the on-duty Station Officer. The bedroom area and employee bath areas 

are not public areas. 

E. All visitors shall remain in the place designated by the Station Captain or the Station Lieutenant. 

Such visitors shall not be involved in nor interrupt the activities of the firefighters, including work 

assignments, training, sleeping, or any other activity. Members shall be aware that failure to 

maintain acceptable standards of conduct at all times shall subject them to disciplinary action. 

F. Visitors shall not be allowed to park on or in front of any apparatus exit ramp. 





G. Visitors (non-public safety personnel) are not allowed in the building after 2200 hours. 

H. Visits in parked vehicles after dark are not permitted unless it is approved by the appropriate 

supervisor. 

I. Visits after 2200 hours shall be allowed at the discretion of the Battalion Commander. Visits after 

2200 hours should be limited to business that is absolutely necessary to be conducted at that time 

and place. These visits to Fire Department facilities include parking lots and grounds. 

J. An Officer may prohibit the entrance of any person or cause any person to leave the building 

and/or property when, in the opinion of the officer, such presence may interfere with the operation 

of the Fire Department, be in violation of these rules or appear to be under the influence of illegal 

drugs or alcohol. 

K. The Fire Station, in this policy, includes the building, while the property includes the parking lot 

and all City property around the Fire Station. 

L. No person(s) or personnel shall be permitted to bring any material considered to be hazardous to 

human health or property, whether it is chemical or biological in nature, into any Fire Station. 

Any unidentified material(s) that may be brought onto Fire Department premises should be treated 

as a hazardous material. Proper precautions must be taken, which may include donning proper 

PPE, until the material(s) is properly identified and before any further actions are taken. Any 

person(s) that may bring any hazardous materials onto Fire Department property should be 

instructed that they are to remain in possession of subject materials until such time that; (1) a 

positive identification of the material(s) has been made (2) a positive identification of the 

individual(s) in possession the material(s) is made (3) notification of an immediate supervisor and 

shift OIC has been made (4) a plan of action is determined. 

At no time shall Fire Department personnel receive or accept any material(s), considered to be 

hazardous, from any individual(s) for the purpose of disposal. 

Economy 

Members shall use discretion and good judgment in the use of expendable supplies and utilities. 

A. HVAC controls should be set at 70 degrees in the winter months and 74 in the summer months. 

B. All unnecessary lighting should be turned off when that area of the building is not being occupied. 

Sleeping 

A. Members may retire after 1200 hours on weekdays and after 1200 hours on weekends and 

holidays provided all assigned duties and functions have been completed. 

B. The firefighter’s supervisor may grant early retirement to bed, as unusual conditions may arise. 

C. No off-duty personnel shall be allowed use of the sleeping quarters without permission of the 

Deputy Chief or Fire Chief. 





Bedding 

A. Members shall be provided with the following bedding materials: 

1. One pillow case 

2. Two sheets 

3. One pillow 

4. One comforter 

B. Members are responsible for providing any other additional bedding that they may require. 

C. Members are responsible for the cleaning and maintenance of their personal bedding. 

D. Department supplied bedspreads shall be available to the Station Officer to cover any bed not in 

use on that shift. 

E. Any bed frame, box spring, mattress, bedspread, or linens which are damaged, lost or require 

replacement shall be reported to the Battalion Commander. The Deputy Chief will make the 

necessary adjustments. 

Cooking and Meals 

A. Meal preparations shall be handled by a mutually agreeable system among the members at any 

given Station. 

B. Only one person at a time may go pick up food for a meal unless the entire Engine or Truck 

Company goes. All essential positions shall be covered at all times. When at minimum staffing, 

the Engine or Truck Company must go as a unit. 

C. Meal clean up procedures shall be handled by a mutually agreeable system among the members at 

any given Station. Said system shall insure, however, that dirty dishes, cooking implements, 

kitchen facilities, and dining areas are promptly cleaned up after each meal and returned to a 

sanitary condition. 

Maintenance Supplies and Inventory 

All station and grounds maintenance activities, supplies, and inventory shall be handled according to 

Departmental policy. Purchasing of supplies shall be approved in advance by the Deputy Chief. 

Dress 

Members shall dress at all times in accordance with Departmental policy. 





Parking 

A. All vehicles must be parked in designated parking spaces. If spaces are not available, vehicles 

must be moved as soon as possible after shift change. 

B. Parking shall not be permitted at any time in front of any apparatus exit ramps. 

Leave Time 

A. A shift shall be defined as twenty-four (24) hours, in accordance with City policy. 

B. Comp time shall be taken in compliance with the City of Cleveland Personnel Rules and 

Regulations Handbook and in compliance with The Fair Labor Standards Act. 

C. Vacation time will be scheduled in advance beginning in January each year. 

Administrative Leave 

The Fire Chief must approve all administrative leave. In order to comply with this, the request must be 

approved before the leave may be taken. This includes nights, weekends, and holidays. Administrative 

leave/time off request forms will be reviewed during regular business hours only. The Deputy Chief or the 

Battalion Commander may grant administrative leave time off, for himself/herself and others, only in cases 

of verifiable emergencies. The Fire Chief may also ask that some form of proof accompany the emergency 

administrative request. 

Reports 

A. All reports on actual fire incidents shall be completed as soon as possible after the incident. Each 

Battalion Commander is responsible for quality checking all reports completed during their shift. 

B. All shift paperwork shall be completed and turned in to the Administrative Office by 0800 hours 

following the completion of the shift except in emergency situations. 

C. All Apparatus Inspection Reports shall be turned in to the Deputy Chief by 1000 hours each 

Friday. 

General 

A. Members shall be courteous to the public at all times. 

B. Members shall refrain from loud and boisterous talk and swearing or any other actions, which may 

bring public criticism upon the Department. 

C. Lounging in front of the Fire Stations in not permitted until after 1700 hours, Monday through 

Saturday, and 1200 hours on Sunday. 





General Rules 

Purpose 

To provide a listing of the general rules of operation for the Cleveland Fire Department. 

Objective 

To establish minimum standards of conduct in the Fire Department 

Scope 

This policy applies to all members of the Cleveland Fire Department. 


It shall be the responsibility of each member to comply with these policies. It shall be the responsibility of 

each Officer to see that each member under their command complies with these policies. 

Policy 

1. Fire Department personnel shall not participate in conduct unbecoming a public employee 

including actions which reflect unfavorably on the efficiency of the City, cause embarrassment or 

are damaging to the City or in general reflect unfavorably on the City, its employees or its citizens. 

2. Members shall keep their Officers advised on all matters of interest to the Department and may 

make suggestions and recommendations for increasing its efficiency, preferably in writing. 

3. A member shall notify his/her immediate supervisor of any injury received in the line of duty, 

upon evidence of receipt of said injury. A written report must be made within twenty-four (24) 

hours of the injury or as soon as possible. 

4. Communications of every nature shall be addressed to the firefighter’s Officer, and not circumvent 

the chain of command. 

5. At the scene of emergencies and other public activities, Officers are to be addressed by rank and 

surname. At other times where informality may be appropriate, keeping in mind the respect due 

the position, given names may be used. 

6. No member shall lend, sell, or give away any property belonging to the Fire Department without 

permission of the Fire Chief, nor shall they pilfer or be guilty of theft at fires or elsewhere. 

7. Smoking or the use of tobacco is prohibited while handling gasoline, while refueling apparatus, 

and while inspecting or preplanning a building. Discretion is to be used at all times when in 

public. 

8. Members shall not attend to personal business or personal matters while on duty, to the detriment 

of their assigned duties. 





9. During a normal 24-hour tour of duty, most assigned activities will be regulated to occur in the 

period from 0800 through 1800 hours, where possible. The attempt to maintain this schedule is a 

prerogative of management, and in no way precludes additional assignments which may have to 

be engaged in or at other hours of the 24-hour day, including, but not limited to, the handling of 

emergencies. All assigned duties are to be performed, irrespective of the time of day or day of 

week. 

10. All personnel are held responsible for any and all equipment, uniforms, badges, name plates, etc., 

that have been issued to the individual. In case of damage or lost items personnel shall: 

a. Report loss or damage to immediate supervisor. 

b. Make a written report explaining the circumstances. The supervisor will forward the 

report to the Deputy Chief. A study will be made of the circumstances surrounding the 

loss or damage and the individual may be subject to reimbursement of the cost of the item 

and/or disciplinary action. 

11. Any member called for jury duty on a duty day will be excused from their assigned duties for the 

actual duration of the jury duty. In the event of release from jury duty during the employee’s 

normal working hours, he/she shall be expected to return to his/her Station. An employee will 

receive full pay from the City during jury service, provided they sign over the jury pay to the City 

of Cleveland. 

12. Television viewing during standby time may be permitted by Battalion Commanders and Station 

Officers after the regular work schedule and other duties are completed. Officers may authorize 

exceptions to the above in special circumstances. 

13. Private vehicles must park in designated areas after shift change. 

14. When a member of the Department, or any instructor operating under the direction of the Fire 

Chief, is conducting a training class, he/she will be in charge of all members of the class without 

regard to rank. 

15. All members scheduled for training sessions will report to class in the appropriate uniform, as 

directed. 

16. Companies scheduled for training sessions at a training location away from the Fire Station shall 

notify the Communications Center that they are out of Station, for training, but subject to call. 

17. All Fire Department members must have telephone service, and must provide the Fire Department 

with their telephone number. 

18. Any Fire Department member who has been absent from their Company on authorized duties, and 

returns to find their Company out of quarters, shall immediately ascertain: 

a. The nature and location of the Company’s activity. 

b. Instructions from their Company Officer regarding his/her reporting to their Company’s 

location. 





19. The use of tobacco in all forms is permitted in only designated areas. 

20. Prior to backing any Engine, Ladder Truck, or Tanker, a road guard (spotter) shall be assigned at 

the rear of the apparatus (with a portable radio if possible). It shall be the responsibility of this 

safety watch to guide the driver and to ascertain that a clear travel path exists. It is the driver’s 

responsibility to obtain a safety watch, and to follow directions given. The driver is also 

responsible for monitoring the movement and positioning of their apparatus to avoid an accident. 

21. Fire Department personnel shall not participate in any fighting or violence on City property at any 

time. Members are expressly forbidden to engage in any rough or boisterous conduct or similar 

activities that would interrupt the normal activities of the Department. 

22. Fire Department personnel shall not participate in any horseplay when such activity contributes to 

the injury or ineffectiveness of the employee, the public, another employee, or damage to City 

property at any time. 

23. Fire Department personnel shall not participate in any unauthorized possession or threatening use 

of weapons to include, but not limited to firearms, ammunition, explosives, fireworks, or knives 

on City property at any time. 

24. Every member shall be alert to detect incendiary cases of suspicious origin and shall immediately 

report such findings to their supervisor. If incendiary evidence is detected, he/she shall prevent its 

removal or unnecessary disturbance, except by direction of supervisors. 

25. Fire Department personnel shall not participate in the failure to report any mistreatment of a client, 

member, or any other individual. 

26. Fire Department personnel shall not participate in endangering health or safety of self or others. 

27. Fire Department personnel shall not participate in destruction, abuse or unauthorized use of City 

property or equipment. 

28. Fire Department personnel shall not participate in stealing City property, or property of another 

individual. 

29. All members shall keep their persons, uniforms, beds, closets and lockers in a neat, clean 

condition. The doors on closets and lockers shall be kept closed at all times when not on duty. 

Persistence in uncleanness or offensive habits will be just cause for disciplinary action. 

30. All members shall practice economy in the use of supplies and metered services and see that waste 

is avoided. 

31. All members shall accord obedience, respect, and courtesy to superior officers and to those 

performing the duties of a higher rank. 

32. When assigned to act in a position of higher rank, members shall accept responsibility for the 

performance of the duties of that position. 

33. All members shall promptly notify their supervisor of any matter coming to their attention that 

they believe would affect the interest and welfare of the Department. 





34. Under the direction of the Fire Chief, members detailed to the various divisions of the Department 

shall have charge of the administrative duties of their respective divisions and shall be responsible 

for the maintenance of discipline and authority. 

35. Suggestions for the improvement of the Fire Department of the well being of the members will, 

when presented through channels, are encouraged, welcomed and will be carefully considered. 

36. Members making recommendations for changes, alterations, or improvement shall consult with 

and report in writing to their supervisor and to no other agency unless otherwise directed by the 

supervisor. All such recommendations shall be forwarded in writing through the proper chain-ofcommand 

to the Fire Chief, with the approval or disapproval of the intermediate Officers noted 

thereon. 

37. No member shall use employment with the Fire Department for the purpose of personal gain. 

38. Members shall not use their employment with the Department to attempt to influence the vote of 

any person for or against any candidate for public office. 

39. No member shall report under, or be on duty under, the influence of any intoxicating liquor, drug, 

or illegal substance. 

40. No member shall bring or cause to be brought into quarters any intoxicating liquor, illegal drug, or 

other illegal substance. 

41. In the best interest of the Department, any member taking medication under the care of a physician 

that could interfere with his/her ability to function shall notify their immediate supervisor and 

shall not be allowed to remain on duty. 

42. No member shall be a party to any malicious gossip, report, or activities which tend to disrupt the 

morale in the Fire Department or the bring discredit to the Fire Department or any member 

thereof. 

43. No member shall use obscene, uncivil or boisterous language at fires, in quarters, or at any time in 

the presence of the general public. Engagement in altercations at Fire Stations in prohibited under 

any circumstances. 

44. Language, jokes, and expressions which can be considered racist, sexist, or otherwise 

discriminatory, hostile, or offensive will not be tolerated. Stereotypical comments directed at a 

particular sex, race, ethnic group, nationality, religion, even if made in jest, may be perceived as 

demeaning by members of that group and, therefore, are not conducive to good morale. All 

members shall refrain from making such comments, assist others in recognizing that such 

comments are hurtful, and direct complaints of this issue through the chain of command. 

45. Members shall, before being relieved, acquaint their successors with details of the preceding tour 

of duty; giving the successor any equipment necessary and such information as may be needed for 

the continued efficient operation of the Department. 

46. Members shall familiarize themselves with the contents of all communications posted on the 

official bulletin boards of the Fire Department. 

47. Members shall not change or alter the arrangement of firefighting equipment or apparatus without 

the approval of the Fire Chief or in his absence the Deputy Chief. 





48. Punctuality is required of all members. Tardiness shall be reported immediately through the chain 

of command. A member who fails to report to their assigned tour of duty at 08:00 in uniform and 

does not furnish well-sustained reasons for the failure to do so will be subject to such formal 

charges and penalties as the Fire Chief shall deem appropriate. 

49. The falsification of records, the making of misleading entries or statements with intent to deceive, 

or the willful mutilation of any useful Department record, log, or document will be considered a 

serious offense. 

50. The wrongful or injurious exercise of authority on the part of any member of the Department will 

be the basis for disciplinary action. 

51. The violation of any of the provisions of the rules and regulations or orders of the Fire 

Department, or the neglect or evasion of the duties prescribed, shall be the subject of disciplinary 

action, up to and including termination. 

52. Beds may not be occupied between 0800 and 1200 hours, except in unusual cases of illness or if a 

firefighter has not had sufficient rest due to firefighting activities the night before. This shall be 

determined by an immediate supervisor and reported to the appropriate Commander or Shift OIC. 

53. The use of personal cellular telephones is prohibited during, any training activities, while doing 

inspections, pre-planning or public education presentations, at emergency scenes or during 

responses, during any public assembly program and while driving a Fire Department apparatus. 





General Rules for Officers 

Purpose 

To provide a listing of the general rules and operations for the Officers of the Cleveland Fire Department. 

Objective 

To establish minimum standards and guidelines for the Officers of the Cleveland Fire Department. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all Officers of the Cleveland Fire Department. 


It shall be the responsibility of each Officer to comply with and enforce these policies and guidelines. 

Policy 

1. Officers shall be just, dignified, fair, and firm at all times. 

2. Officers shall maintain order and discipline at all times. They will and shall be held responsible for 

the enforcement of the provisions of this Fire Department Handbook. 

3. Officers shall see to it that all fire fighting units under their supervision are manned by such 

Officers and members as may be sufficient to properly perform any required duty, within 

prevailing Department policies. 

4. Officers shall not permit apparatus to leave the quarters unless on call, training, P.T. outside 

station, inspections, public education, hydrant testing, repair work, meals or other official 

Department business. 

5. Officers shall report promptly, by a well-documented report, all violations of the law, ordinances, 

conduct standards, or General Orders, to their Battalion Commander. 

6. Officers shall always have in quarters, a qualified driver for each line apparatus that is in service. 

7. All accidents to apparatus or members must be promptly and fully reported. If possible, an 

accident report must be completed within twenty-four hours and before the employee (s) involved 

leaves their tour of duty. This must be a written report and must be signed by the employee (s) 

involved and their OIC. If such accident was caused by negligence or any incompetence of 

drivers, such information must be included in the report. Statements from any witnesses shall also 

be included in this report. 

8. Officers are to insure that all personnel riding apparatus shall use proper safety equipment, 

including that all personnel are seated where seats are provided, and that seat belts are properly 

buckled before the apparatus moves. 





9. Officers shall insure that all fires are extinguished with the least possible damage to life and 

property. Caution shall be used to prevent unnecessary damage by water or Fire Department 

personnel. 

10. The Station Officers shall have command of their assigned station and all equipment and shall be 

subject to the supervision of a Station/Shift Captain or Battalion Commander. 

11. Officers shall have, or cause to have, visitors escorted and politely given explanations about the 

building and/or occupants. Visitors are not permitted in the private areas of the station, such as the 

sleeping quarters or bathhouses, unless permission has been granted by the Ranking Shift OIC. 

12. Officers shall not permit anyone, except a member of the Department to ride on the apparatus 

when responding to or returning from an alarm, except as instructed by the Deputy Chief or Fire 

Chief. 

13. Officers shall conform to all company operations, including the keeping of necessary records, 

including fire incident reports and other such records as required, maintaining the watch, care and 

maintenance of all property, apparatus, and equipment under their command, to the standards of 

the Fire Chief, and shall enforce the Conduct Standards, and General Orders governing the same. 

14. Officers shall forward all reports or communications that may be required to the Battalion 

Commander. 

15. Officers shall read over all reports and narratives made by members of their shift and see that the 

report is intelligent and written with neatness and care. 

16. Officers shall require members of his command to report at a designated area at a designated time 

when reporting for duty for changing of shifts. He shall read or cause to be read to the members all 

orders issued since the previous tour of duty. He shall announce the necessary instructions for the 

day, including the uniform of the day. He shall visually inspect all members in regards to their 

grooming habits and uniform requirements. 

17. Officers shall make or cause to be made an inspection of sleeping areas and shall require that all 

bedding be made up neatly and uniformly. Bedding shall be aired periodically, as specified in 

station activity procedures. All members of the Fire Department, uniforms and lockers/closets are 

to be kept in a neat, clean condition. Persistence in uncleanliness or offensive habits will be just 

cause for disciplinary action. All wearing apparel, uniforms and personal belongings, when not in 

use, are to be kept in a locker, closet, or other property place provided for this purpose. The locker 

or closet door shall be kept closed. 

18. Officers shall not allow beds to be occupied between 0800 and 1200 hours, except in unusual 

cases of illness, if a firefighter has not had sufficient rest due to firefighting activities the night 

before. 

19. Officers shall assume command of fires under prevailing procedures, and shall exercise the same 

until a higher-ranking Officer arrives and assumes command. 

20. Officers shall not allow the use of profane, indecent, or unseemly language, nor allow or permit 

members or visitors to speak disrespectfully of any other Officer or member. 





21. Officers shall not allow gasoline to be used in quarters for cleaning purposes, nor permit any 

person to smoke or allow a naked flame of any description while and where motorized apparatus is 

being refueled. 

22. Officers shall not allow lounging about the station by undesirable or intoxicated persons, nor shall 

they allow any bed or room to be occupied by any persons not a member of the Department or not 

regularly assigned, except by permission of the Fire Chief. 

23. Officers shall see that all unnecessary lights are extinguished when not in use and shall be 

responsible for strict economy in the use of all supplies, power, and fuel. 

24. Officers shall not allow the use of tobacco products other than in designated areas. 

25. Officers shall cause each new appointee to their command to be thoroughly instructed and shall 

see that no probationary employee is assigned to any important detail until he/she is thoroughly 

familiar with the duties to be performed. 

26. Officers shall not allow property to be used for the storage of any automobile or other property not 

owned, hired by, or loaned to the City except by permission of the Fire Chief. 

27. Officers shall not allow intoxicating liquors or other drugs of abuse to be brought into or used in 

the station. 

28. Officers shall not allow radios or other instruments to be operated at a level that will disturb other 

members in the sleeping area during sleeping hours. Sleeping hours are between 2200 hours and 

0700 hours. 

29. Officers shall direct the drivers and shall control the speed of apparatus, not allowing excessive 

speed, within the margins of state and local safety requirements, and Department policy. 

30. Officers shall have created a correct list of all tools and appliances carried on their assigned 

apparatus. This list will be used during morning apparatus checks and upon return from an alarm. 

A report shall immediately be made of any damaged or missing property. 

31. Officers shall see that the apparatus is, at all times, ready for use and shall be held responsible for 

all equipment thereon. Officers are required to report, in writing, all apparatus maintenance needs, 

such as tire replacement, body repair, etc. 

32. Officers shall report promptly to the Battalion Commander, with all particulars thereof, if any 

municipal department, public service or other corporation, or any individual or any officer or 

employee of any such corporation or department has interfered with the work of the Department or 

has refused the cooperation required and necessary for the greatest efficiency of this Department. 

No member of the Cleveland Fire Department, other than the Fire Chief or Deputy Chief, shall 

directly complain to or enter into any controversy with any department, corporation, or individual. 

The Battalion Commander shall forward all such information to the Deputy Chief. 

33. Officers shall require each member of their shift to properly clothe him/herself to safeguard 

against sickness or injury which might be brought on by being unnecessarily exposed to the 

weather, and will not allow members of the Department on fire grounds without proper fire 

equipment. 





34. Officers shall not permit any changes or alterations to be made in the building or on apparatus by 

Company members, except by permission of the Deputy Chief or Fire Chief.35. Officers will 

ascertain the authority of any contractor, mechanic, or other person reporting at the station to make 

repairs, alterations, paint, install any equipment, perform any labor, or furnish any material, before 

permitting them to proceed. An accurate record shall be kept of time required in the performance 

and proper entry made in the daily report. 

36. Officers shall forward, through the Battalion Commander, all reports addressed to the Fire Chief. 

37. Officers on duty shall attend all scheduled Staff meetings unless specifically excused by the Fire 

Chief. Non-exempt Officers that are required to attend Staff meetings while off duty will be 

compensated at their applicable overtime rate. 

38. Officers will see that the United States Flag is in good repair and is properly illuminated. Flags 

will be flown at half-mast only under the orders of the Fire Chief. 

39. All incoming papers and memos shall be given to the Station Officer. Each Officer is responsible 

for seeing that each member of his/her Company reads and understands the information contained. 

40. Officers shall be responsible for the appearance of their personnel. Uniforms shall be neat and 

clean and otherwise in good condition. Work uniforms are to be used at the discretion of Station 

Officers. 

41. Officers are responsible to report all overtime for personnel under their command within the pay 

period in which it occurs. 

42. Fire Companies (engine and truck) may only conduct authorized Fire Department business while 

out of their station on Departmental activities. 

43. Officers shall not permit horseplay when such activity contributes to the injury or ineffectiveness 

of the employee, the public, another employee, or damage to City property at anytime. 

44. Officers shall not permit unauthorized possession, threatening use of weapons to include, but not 

limited to firearms, ammunition, explosives, fireworks, or knives on City property at anytime. 

45. Officers shall not participate or permit participation in non-departmental related work/activities 

while on duty, which interferes with job description. 

46. Officers shall not distribute or permit unauthorized distribution of any City or Departmental 

written or printed material of any description. 

47. Officers shall not permit any mistreatment of a customer, client, visitor, or any other individual 

and shall report any such action to the Battalion Commander. 

48. Officers shall not endanger or permit endangering the health or safety of self or others. 

49. Officers shall not permit destruction, abuse or unauthorized use of City property or equipment. 





50. Officers shall not permit conduct unbecoming a public employee including actions which reflect 

unfavorably on the efficiency of the City, cause embarrassment or are damaging to the City or in 

general reflect unfavorably on the City, its employees or its citizens. 

51. Under no circumstances shall any animal be kept in quarters without permission of the Fire Chief. 





Chain of Command 

Purpose 

To develop an orderly and effective structure of supervision. 

Objective 

To furnish personnel a structured avenue of supervision and responsibility by which the business of the 

Cleveland Fire Department shall be conducted. 

Definition and Description 

A. The Chain of Command of the Cleveland Fire Department is that order or chain of vested 

authority and responsibility by which the business of the Department shall be conducted. 

B. It serves the function of allowing information to flow in an orderly manner from all members of 

the Cleveland Fire Department to the Chief and to all steps between. 

C. The Chain of Command is that vehicle that will be used for all orders, grievances, requests, etc., 

and its proper use by all members of the Department is both necessary and mandatory. 

Proper Use 

The proper use of the Chain of Command depends upon each member of the Department working within 

his assigned sphere of authority and responsibility. 

In reporting to duty, requesting or bearing information, or entering into the business of the Department in 

any way that does not lie directly within his/her sphere of authority or responsibility, the member of the 

Department will report to or request from his/her superior or subordinate as the case may be, the needed 

information. 

Suggestions for the improvements of the Fire Department or well being of the membership will, when 

presented through channels, be welcomed and carefully considered. 





Address/Telephone Information 

Purpose 

To assure that “critical response” personnel maintain a place of residence and a method of contact that will 

permit them to report for work in a timely manner during both normal and emergency situations. 

Objective 

To establish emergency response guidelines regarding place of residence and to provide a means of 

updating changes of name, address, or telephone number. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all personnel of the Cleveland Fire Department. 


All Fire Department personnel are responsible for keeping their records updated. 

Policy 

A. All Cleveland Fire Department personnel shall reside within thirty miles (30) of Station One. 

B. Members shall maintain a working telephone number at all times. 

C. Members are to immediately notify their Battalion Commander of any change in their name, 

address, or telephone number (home and part-time job.) 

D. All changes of address or telephone number must be submitted to your Battalion Commander, in 

writing as soon as possible your next scheduled shift. 

E. The Battalion Commander shall submit, without delay, the Report to the Administrative Assistant 

for a records update. 

F. A copy of the report will be forwarded to the City Personnel Office and the Communications 

Center. 

Other 

Changes in marital status, beneficiary, or dependents shall be reported directly to the City Personnel Office. 

The City shall not be held liable when incorrect withholding, wrong beneficiaries, or loss of employee 

benefits resulting from the failure of any employee to keep personnel records current. 





Lost or Damaged Equipment 

Purpose 

To insure that matters concerning lost or damaged Fire Department equipment are properly managed. 

Objective 

To establish Fire Department policy and procedures relative to lost and damaged equipment. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all Cleveland Fire Department personnel. 


Members who may become aware of lost or damaged Fire Department equipment shall promptly report 

such conditions, through channels, in accordance with the procedures contained within this policy. 

Policy 

A. Any member who becomes aware of lost or damaged Fire Department equipment shall notify their 

Company Officer (or direct supervisor) and shall submit a written report explaining the particulars 

of the situation to the same. 

B. If the Company Officer feels that a replacement is needed immediately, and one is not available, 

he shall notify the Battalion Commander. The Battalion Commander shall take inventory of all 

stations and see if a loaner is available, and if one is not, take the necessary steps to obtain a 

replacement as quickly as possible. 

C. The Company Officer shall investigate the known facts of the situation and shall forward the 

previously mentioned written report, with his additional comments, to the Battalion Commander. 

D. The Battalion Commander shall forward all reports to the Deputy Chief and the Station Captain. 

E. The Officer in charge of apparatus shall make the necessary arrangements to provide replacement 

or repair of lost or damaged equipment. 

F. The Battalion Commander and the Deputy Chief shall make an assessment as to whether theft or 

vandalism has occurred and, if necessary, notify the Police Department. 

G. The Deputy Chief shall notify the Chief of the situation and of those actions which have been 

taken. 





Memorandum Book 

Purpose 

To provide an easily accessible means for the temporary storage of department memos. 

Objective 

To provide Fire Department personnel notification of temporary changes of the operations of the 

Department and/or any other job related information. 

Scope 

All Fire Department personnel shall keep themselves updated on any temporary changes in operations and 

other job related information as may be outlined in the Memorandum Book. 


The responsibility of staying informed rests with every member of the Cleveland Fire Department. 

Policy 

A. A Memorandum Book will be placed at each Fire Station. 

B. Battalion Commanders, Station Captains and Station Officers shall be responsible for the 

Memorandum Book and keeping it updated. 

C. All memos shall be posted on each Station bulletin board until they have expired or after 30 days. 

At the end of 30 days if the memo is still valid it shall be placed in the Memorandum Book. 

D. The Memorandum Book contains recent memos in chronological order, with the most recent being 

at the front of the book. Members need only flip through the pages to locate the memo of interest. 

E. The Memos contained within this book are temporary in nature and must be removed and 

discarded as soon as they become out of date or are no longer valid. Memos, which become 

permanent policy will be converted to regular policy format and inserted in the Operational 

Handbook. 

F. Battalion Commanders and/or Station Captains shall review the Memorandum Book monthly and 

remove memos that are out of date or are no longer valid. 





Station Clean-Up 

Purpose 

To insure that all Fire Department facilities and equipment are properly maintained. 

Objective 

To establish a uniform and efficient schedule for maintaining Fire Department facilities and equipment. 

Scope 

All Fire Department personnel shall comply with this schedule. 


All Fire Department Officers shall be responsible for the enforcement of this schedule. 

Policy 

A. All equipment must be checked by the on coming shift and an “Apparatus Inspection Sheet” 

completed on each apparatus. The Company Officer is responsible for this. Anything found out of 

order must be reported to the Battalion Commander or Shift OIC as soon as practical. Any 

equipment needing repairs shall be taken care of immediately. The equipment shall be clean and 

neat at all times. 

B. The equipment check must be completed before any other clean up duties are begun. 

C. The daily work schedule shall be laid out by the Battalion Commander/Station Officer at the 

beginning of each shift and adjusted as required. 

D. Equipment checks will begin at 08:00 hrs. 

Daily Clean Up Schedule 

To be checked and cleaned each day before the end of each shift: 

A. Empty all trash cans and wash as needed. 

B. Sweep all floors and mop as needed. 

C. Vacuum carpets. 

D. All bathrooms cleaned and restocked. 

E. Sweep or hose bay floors. 

F. Clean all bedrooms. 

G. Clean and repair SCBA and face masks as needed. 





Weekly Clean-Up Schedule 

Monday: 

Friday: 

Perform SCBA weekly check. 

Replace all exit, emergency, and Station light bulbs that are burned out. 

Wash Unit 210. 

Yard maintenance will be scheduled by the Deputy Chief. 

Monthly Clean-Up (Beginning with first Monday of the Month) 

Monday: 

Tuesday: 

Wednesday: 

Thursday: 

Friday: 

Clean bathroom and shower stalls. 

Inventory all supplies and reorder, as needed. 

Windows (as needed; to be determined by the Shift OIC). 

Check smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. 

Inventory and clean all apparatus, compartments, and equipment. 

Inventory and clean all kitchen appliances, refrigerator, cabinets and utensils. 

Clean and organize engine bay areas and bay closets. 





Grooming Standards 

Purpose 

To establish guidelines concerning standards of personal appearance for Fire Department members 

Objective 

A. To list those grooming standards considered to be essential by the Fire Department. 

B. To provide personal appearance standards which will enable Fire Department members to present 

a neat and professional appearance at all times. 

Scope 

All members of the Cleveland Fire Department (while on duty) shall abide by the standards contained 

within this policy. 


A. Individual officers are responsible for the appearance of members under their direct supervision. 

B. All members are responsible to abide by Departmental grooming standards and maintain a neat 

and professional appearance while on duty or in uniform. 

Policy 

A. Fire Department members shall maintain a high standard of dress and personal appearance. 

B. Members (while on duty) shall abide by Departmental grooming standards. 

Hair 

Members may have any hair style, providing that hair is neatly arranged and does not extend below the 

midpoint of the collar of the uniform shirt at the back of the neck when standing, nor extend from the 

earlobes at the side. Natural or Afro styles may not extend from the head more than 2 inches. Hair may not 

protrude from the standard fire helmet. Styles such as Mohawks, pigtails, or pinned-up long hair are not 

acceptable. Artificial hair colors that may draw undue attention and are outside acceptable Fire Department 

standards are prohibited. 

Sideburns 

A. Sideburns may extend to the bottom of the ear and shall be squarely cut at the bottom. 

B. Sideburns shall be neat in appearance and shall not interfere with the proper seal of a breathing 

apparatus facemask. 

Wigs or Hairpieces 

The wearing of a wig or hairpiece while in uniform is allowed for the purpose of covering natural baldness 

or disfiguration. When worn it shall conform to the haircut criteria specified in this policy. 





Facial Hair 

A. Mustaches may be worn, but must be neat in appearance and conform to the following provisions: 

1. Shall be trimmed or groomed. 

2. Shall not grow or extend beyond the corner of the mouth. 

B. Members must be clean shaven at the beginning of their shift. Facial hair shall not in any way 

restrict the positive seal of their breathing apparatus. 

C. Due to safety and appearance consideration, beards or other head and facial hair not specifically 

permitted above are prohibited. 

D. It shall be made known immediately to your immediate supervisor, so that it may be noted in your 

record, if you possess a medical condition that may interfere with your compliance with any of the 

regulations set forth herein. Otherwise, full compliance will be expected of all Personnel. 

Uniforms 

A. Uniforms shall be kept neat, clean, and in good condition. 

B. The uniform shirt shall be tucked in at all times, and pants shall be clean and pressed. 

C. Shoes shall be kept clean and polished. 

D. Shoes that are worn out, broken or otherwise deemed beyond repair shall be reported in writing, 

through the chain of command, so that a replacement pair may be obtained. 

Personal Hygiene 

Personal hygiene habits will be practiced at all times. Keeping the body free of dirt and odor is a must 

where group living is practiced. The taking of showers after fires and manual work is encouraged not only 

for your personal appearance but also for your own safety and health. 

Jewelry 

Jewelry that cannot be completely covered with protective clothing or that might pose a safety problem will 

not be worn while on duty. (i.e., earrings, bracelets, etc.). 





Personal Mechanic Work 

Purpose 

To provide a policy for allowing Fire Department personnel to do mechanic work such as minor service 

work on personal vehicles, boats, etc. while on duty. 

Objective 

To establish guidelines for doing minor mechanic work on personal vehicles while on duty. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all Fire Department personnel. 


All Officers are responsible for enforcing this policy. 

Policy 

A. Members are allowed to do minor mechanic work and service work to personal vehicles and 

vehicles of immediate family members only, while on duty. 

B. Members may work on their personal vehicle if time permits and if it does not interfere with work 

activities or training. 

C. Work on personal vehicles may be done after 1700 hours (as long as known visitation will not be 

taking place) at the discretion of the Officer in Charge. 

D. During inclement or freezing weather, apparatus will not be moved out of the bay area to work on 

personal vehicles. 

E. This policy is not extended to vehicles used for business purposes unless it is the vehicle that is 

normally used for transportation to and from work. 

F. The bay area must be policed and cleaned when work on the vehicle is completed. Any member 

not cleaning the bay area after use will have his/her privileges revoked. 

G. So as to be fair to all employees, vehicles are not to be left inside the apparatus bay for an 

extended period of time or overnight. 

H. The changing of motor oil, transmission fluid or any other vehicle fluid shall not be permitted 

unless the Fire Department member provides their own fluid containment and removes the fluid 

from City premises immediately upon completion of his/her shift. Any member deviating from 

this policy may have his/her privileges revoked for as long as deemed appropriate by the Deputy 

Chief or Chief. 





Washing Private Vehicles 

Purpose 

To provide a policy for allowing Fire Department personnel to wash private vehicles while on duty. 

Objective 

To establish guidelines for washing private vehicles while on duty. 

Scope 



All Officers are responsible for enforcing this policy. 

Policy 

A. Members are allowed to wash personal vehicles and vehicles of immediate family members while 

on duty. 

B. Members may wash their personal vehicle if time permits and if it does not interfere with work 

activities or training. 

C. Personal vehicles may be washed after 1700 hours Monday through Friday and anytime on 

Saturday or Sunday at the discretion of Battalion Commander or Officer in Charge. 

D. During inclement or freezing weather, apparatus will not be moved out of the bay area to wash 

personal vehicles. 

E. Vehicles used for personnel business purposes may also be washed in the Bay area provided this 

vehicle is the primary vehicle used to transport the member to and from work. 

F. The bay area must be policed and cleaned when vehicle washing is completed. Any member not 

cleaning the bay area after use will have his/her vehicle washing privileges revoked. 

G. Vehicles are not to be left inside the apparatus bay for an extended period of time or overnight. 





Part-Time Employment 

Purpose 

To establish requirements for outside employment or moonlighting. 

Objective 

To establish policy and procedures for working at part-time jobs and their relation to an employee’s 

primary job at the Cleveland Fire Department. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all fire department personnel who may have secondary employment. 


It shall be the responsibility of all members of the Cleveland Fire Department to comply with and enforce 

this policy. 

Policy 

A. Employees of the Cleveland Fire Department are allowed to have outside employment 

(moonlighting) provided that there is no conflict of interest or impairment of work performance 

for the City of Cleveland and the employment does not cast discredit or create an embarrassment 

for the City. Outside Employment must meet the requirements set forth in the City of Cleveland 

Personal Rules and Regulations Handbook Section V - O, as well as the policies of the Cleveland 

Fire Department. 

B. Employees of the Cleveland Department may carry a Fire Department issued pager/radio and are 

required to leave the Administrative Assistant and Fire Chief a phone number where they can be 

reached at their second job. 

C. Employees of the Cleveland Fire Department shall not participate or be engaged in any activities 

associated with outside employment while they are on duty. 

D. Employees of the Cleveland Fire Department shall not have equipment or tools used with outside 

employment stored in Cleveland Fire Department facilities or in parking areas. 

E. Employees shall not use the Cleveland Fire Department as a pick up or a delivery point for articles 

concerning outside employment. 

F. Employees are not allowed to perform work or services for anyone and receive compensation for 

those services while they are on duty at the Cleveland Fire Department. 





Sexual Harassment 

See Section VII- K of the City of Cleveland Personnel Rules and Regulations. 





Shift Change 

Purpose 

To establish tour of duty requirements for the Cleveland Fire Department. 

Objective 

To establish guidelines for tours of duty and shift change. 

Scope 



The Battalion Commander and/or Company Officer shall be responsible for enforcing this policy for shift 

personnel and the Deputy Chief shall be responsible for Administrative personnel. 

Policy 

The Cleveland Fire Department must insure that if an alarm comes in at shift change, there will be a 

sufficient number of employees on hand to handle it. Also from time to time there is pertinent information 

that must be relayed to the oncoming shift. Therefore, all Cleveland Fire Department personnel shall adhere 

to the following guidelines. 

Shifts 

A. The Cleveland Fire Department shall operate on a three (3) shift basis. Each shift (tour of duty) 

shall be composed of twenty-four (24) hours each for full-time personnel. 

B. Shifts shall begin at 0800 hours on the tour date and last until 0800 hours of the next date. 

Administrative shifts shall be eight (8) hours or as directed by the Fire Chief. 

C. Shifts shall operate on the schedule as directed by the Fire Chief. 





Shift Change 

Shift change shall occur at 0800 hours each day. The off-going shift shall relay all pertinent information to 

the on coming shift. The following information shall be relayed: 

A. Equipment out of service. 

B. Changes to apparatus and equipment. 

C. Fire and emergency calls during the previous shift that may affect the next shift. 

D. Hydrants out of service. 

E. Streets closed. 

F. Orders received, either verbal or written. 

G. Any other pertinent information that may affect or hinder the operations of the Fire Department. 

Battalion Commanders 

The off-going Battalion Commander is responsible for the oncoming Commander or OIC receiving the 

above information. 

Turnouts 

The off-going shift shall remove and store their turnouts properly before going off-shift. The oncoming 

shift will have their turnouts on the equipment by 0800 hours. 





Sick Leave Policy 

Purpose 

To assure the proper and fair use of employee sick leave and other absences due to illness or injury. 

Objective 

To provide guidelines to assist any member who becomes ill or sustains an injury. 

Scope 



It is the responsibility of every Fire Department member to notify the proper office in the event they will be 

off-duty for sickness or injury. 

Policy 

All Fire Department employees shall adhere to the following policy when off-duty due to sickness or 

injury. 

Sickness Notification 

A. A member needing to be off-duty on sick leave must report by telephone to the Battalion 

Commander or Shift Supervisor at least one hour (60) minutes prior to the start of their shift. The 

officer in charge (OIC) will then report this as soon as possible to the appropriate Supervisor. If 

the Battalion Commander or Shift Supervisor cannot be reached, the employee shall contact the 

Deputy Chief or the Fire Chief. Forty (40) hour employees must notify the Deputy Chief. 

Notification of whereabouts is not required in cases of prolonged illness or injury, when such 

illness or injury has been medically verified and approval has been received from the Battalion 

Commander. 

B. Unforeseen cases of accidents or illness that may occur while en route to work shall be reported by 

the member to the respective on-duty Battalion Commander as soon as circumstances will allow. 

C. An employee, on three (3) separate occurrences within 12 months (beginning January 1 of each 

calendar year), may take sick leave without an excuse from a physician. After these three (3) 

occurrences a doctor’s excuse will be required before the employee is allowed to return to work. 

In the event it is an extended illness or injury which qualifies the employee for Family Medical 

Leave, the employee will obtain from the attending physician and provide to the Deputy Chief or 

Fire Chief documentation which includes a diagnosis and an expected date that the employee will 

be able to return to full duty. Forms to obtain this information from the physician will be provided 

to the employee. 

D. In the event the employee is unable to obtain a physician’ s release to return to duty and cannot 

adequately substantiate that the reason for their absence was for an approved illness or injury, then 

it will be assumed that the employee has abused a benefit provided to them and may be subject to 

disciplinary action. 





See Section VI- D of the City of Cleveland Personnel Rules and Regulations for 

additional information. 





Uniforms 

Purpose 

To provide a policy for the issue and wearing of Fire Department uniforms. 

Objective 

To establish a consistent standard for uniforms worn by the Fire Department personnel. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all Cleveland Fire Department personnel with the exception of the Fire Chief and the 

Secretary. 


All Officers are responsible for the enforcement of this policy. 

Policy 

All personnel shall wear the Daily Duty Uniform approved by the Cleveland Fire Department 0800-1700 

hours. 

All 24-hour personnel shall maintain one (1) complete reserve uniform at their respective stations. 

Approved Uniforms 

A. Class A Uniform 

Approved pants, dress shirt, dress coat, black tie, navy blue or black socks, black shoes, black belt, 

and appropriate brass. This type of uniform would be worn on formal occasions. 

B. Class B Uniform 

Approved pants, blue dress shirt (white dress shirt for Battalion Commanders and Captains), CFD 

issued jacket, black or navy blue socks, black shoes, black belt, and appropriate brass. This class 

of uniform shall be worn by all personnel when reporting for duty and during the hours of 0800- 

1700 and at any time that is deemed appropriate by the Battalion Commander, Deputy Chief or 

Chief. 

C. Class C Uniform 

Approved pants, approved Cleveland Fire Department tee shirt, black belt, black or navy socks 

and black shoes. This class of uniform may be worn when performing maintenance at the fire 

station (i.e. mowing lawn, washing windows, etc.) and during evolution training classes if 

approved by the Chief, Deputy Chief, Commander or Officer in charge. 





D. Appropriate Brass 

1. Rank Insignia pin worn ½” up from point of collar, centered symmetrically with horn 

portion of bugle pointed towards point of collar. 

2. Name plate worn above the right pocket. 

3. Badge worn above the left pocket. 

The Cleveland Fire Department attempts to furnish each employee with the following clothing items: 

Uniform shirts Name plate Tee shirts Jacket 

Uniform pants Tie Hat Badge Dress Hat 

Rank Insignia Cap Breast Badge Dress Coat 

Upon reporting to work, personnel shall be in a full Daily Duty Uniform, ready to go to work. This uniform 

will be worn at all times when on duty, except when instructed by the Company Officer and/or when 

participating in physical training. All fire personnel, except the Battalion Commander and the Captain, 

when assuming the duties of the Battalion Commander, will have the option of dressing down to an 

approved tee shirt after 1700 hours. 

Restrictions 

A. Members may wear the full uniform when going to and from work only. Member shall not wear 

their Fire Department uniform off duty in order to place undo influence or obtain favors or 

discounts from merchants or others. 

B. Members may wear Fire Department Tee shirts, unfit for duty, or ball caps while off duty. 

C. Deviations from uniform, dress, and appearance rules are permitted only with the authorization of 

the Fire Chief. 

D. Uniforms are to be worn only during on-duty working hours unless the member is participating in 

a Public Education event or Ceremony or if approved by the Chief. 

E. Only those uniform accessories which are approved by the Department are to be worn with any of 

the Fire Department uniforms. 

F. Due to safety concerns, no personnel shall be on duty, on a tour of duty, or at any incident scene 

wearing any type of earring (s). 

G. Any head covering not issued by the Fire Department and worn with a uniform must be approved 

by the Fire Chief. 

Employees may wear any combination of approved sweat pants, sweat shirt, shorts, tee shirt, and tennis 

shoes when engaged in physical fitness training, with the following provisions. 

A. Physical fitness attire shall be worn only in areas designated for physical fitness. 

B. Upon completion of physical fitness training, employees shall immediately return to the Daily 

Duty uniform. 





Clothing 

Uniforms and protective clothing items will be provided to employees at the time of hire. 

Uniforms and protective clothing items will be replaced by the Department provided the replacement is 

justified, i.e., items are worn out or damaged through normal usage. Items will be replaced utilizing the 

Quartermaster system (item being replaced will be exchanged for a new one). 

Lost or Stolen Items 

Items lost, stolen, or damaged due to neglect of the owner (as determined by the Deputy Chief) shall be 

replaced at the individual’s expense, through the individual’s own effort or by requesting the department to 

obtain them. All items obtained by the individual will be the same brand, material, etc., as that issued. 

Items obtained by the department will be paid for either by a personal check made out to the City of 

Cleveland or through payroll deductions. 

Laundry 

All personnel may have items laundered. Only fire department issued items may be laundered by 

uniformed line personnel. Tee shirts, bed linens or personal items shall not be sent to be laundered. Turnout 

gear may be washed at a Fire Station with an approved turn-out gear washing machine. 

Turn-In of Gear 

Upon termination of employment, all items issued by the department will be turned in to the Administrative 

Assistant, who will certify in writing that the items are in the department’s possession and acceptable. If a 

member retires from service he/she will be allowed to keep their helmet and uniform brass. 





Vacation Selection 

Purpose 

To establish vacation selection procedures, which will equitably distribute available personal leave time. 

Objective 

To establish policies and procedures to insure that all personnel are treated fairly and justly in the selection 

of leave time. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all Fire Suppression personnel working on a 24/48-hour shift. All other personnel 

may select vacation leave by request to the Deputy Chief. 


It shall be the responsibility of the Battalion Commander to schedule leave time. 

Policy 

A. Personnel working on a 24/48-hour shift will receive one Kelly day each quarter. Kelly days will 

be scheduled as follows: 

1. By seniority, each person in a bid group will pick their first two choices for a Kelly Day 

(one (1) day each for two (2) Kelly months) and label them as 1 st or 2 nd in order of 

importance. 

2. By seniority, repeat the process in item 1. Label the last two picks as 3 rd or 4 th in order of 

importance. 

3. The officer in charge of the bid group will then submit the choices to the Commander for 

final approval. 

4. The Commander will compile the entire list into a master list in order not to have more than 

4 people on a Kelly Day at one time. On days when more than 4 people have requested the 

same day off, the Commander will attempt to give priority based on order of importance. 

On days listed as equally important, priority will be given by seniority. The Commander 

will notify each person when his choice of Kelly day changed. After the scheduling of 

Kelly days, each Battalion will schedule vacation time as described in section C. 

B. Compensatory time must be taken before vacation time, however, you may carry over twenty-four 

(24) hours or less in the event you only need to take a few hours off. 

C. Each Engine Company will have one (1) vacation slot (Squad 1 will choose with Engine 2 and 

Tanker will choose with Engine 1). Ladder 1 and Ladder 4 will have one (1) slot. A Battalion 

Commander will have one (1) slot but they must insure that a competent person will be on duty to 

assume their duties. It will be necessary for this person to be stationed at Station 1 for the shift. 





D. Selection of vacation and leave time shall be by departmental seniority at each station or within 

each slot. Senior personnel will make their vacation selection first, selecting two (2) vacation slots. 

One or more vacation days scheduled consecutively will count as one slot. After all personnel 

have completed the first schedule, a second schedule of two (2) vacation slots will be made by 

seniority. As many cycles as necessary will be used to assure that everyone has had an opportunity 

to schedule leave time. After completion of these cycles, vacation and leave time will be 

scheduled on a first come basis. No more than five (5) shifts may be taken consecutively except in 

unusual circumstances. A request to do so must be made in writing and forwarded to the 

appropriate Commander for approval. This request must then be approved by the Deputy Chief 

and Chief. 

E. Vacation scheduling shall occur the first or second week of January each year. Scheduling will 

also include New Years Day of the following year. The Battalion Commander will coordinate the 

actual date of scheduling and submit a copy of vacation/leave scheduling to the Deputy Chief as 

well as post it in the Fire Department scheduling software and on the internet if available. This 

shall include the entire 12 month schedule. 

G. Changes in vacation time can be made up to seven (7) days prior to the scheduled vacation time 

with approval from the Supervisor or Battalion Commander. If an employee wants to schedule 

vacation time within this seven (7) day period they may do so but it shall not be granted until it is 

determined that all assignments on that shift have been covered on the morning of the shift in 

question. If it is determined that the shift will fall below departmental minimum staffing levels 

then the vacation time will not be permitted and the employee shall be expected to report for duty 

as scheduled. The Battalion Commander shall keep an updated calendar of scheduled vacation 

and leave time. Trades and re-scheduling of vacation periods are permitted only with the approval 

of the Supervisor and Battalion Commander. 

H. Up to thirty (30) days of vacation may be carried forward into the next calendar year. 





Staffing 

Purpose 

To insure that all active fire companies are staffed with at least the minimum number of firefighters 

required to perform the operations and functions of that company. 

Objective 

To insure the effectiveness of all Fire Company operations and the safety of all Fire Department personnel, 

the minimum staffing standards as set out in this policy shall be in effect. 

Scope 

This policy shall be in effect at all times. 


A. The Battalion Commander is responsible for assigning companies to Still, General, and Second 

Alarms. 

B. The Company Officer is responsible for assigning personnel to riding positions and for explaining 

their job tasks or duties. 

Policy 

It is the policy of the Cleveland Fire Department that a level of staffing shall be maintained to adequately 

serve the City of Cleveland. All personnel shall adhere to this policy. 





Procedure 

A. A Shift Commander shall be on duty at all times. 

B. In the absence of the Commander and Captain and/or Lieutenants at Headquarters, a Captain or 

Lieutenant from an outer station shall move to Headquarters and serve as the Shift Commander. 

C. At no time shall the staffing of any Engine Company or Ladder 4 fall below three (3) personnel. 

A minimum of three (3) personnel must also be on duty to operate a Tanker, Squad 1 and Ladder 

1. Personnel may be transferred between stations in order to allow maximum flexibility in 

allowing time off and still insure adequate staffing. Should the staffing fall below the required 

level, the following steps will be taken in the order listed. 

1. The Deputy Chief, or at his order the Battalion Commander, shall contact personnel of 

the appropriate rank in order of seniority and offer overtime. 

2. In the event that the Deputy Chief or Battalion Commander is unable to reach any 

personnel for overtime, the Battalion Commander shall cancel the leave of the required 

number of personnel from his shift that are off duty. The least senior personnel shall be 

contacted first. 

3. In the most extreme cases, when no off duty personnel can be contacted, the Battalion 

Commander shall take an Engine Company or Truck/Ladder Company out of service and 

the personnel shall be moved to where they are needed. 

E. When a Company is out of service, the personnel assigned to that Company shall transfer to other 

Companies or Stations. 

F. At no time shall any apparatus carry more personnel than can be belted into riding positions. 

G. When an Engine Company is out of service and a First Alarm is sounded, a designated Engine 

Company from one of the other Stations shall respond. 





Trading Time 

Purpose 

To provide for the trading of equal time between qualified personnel within the Fire Department. 

Objective 

To allow firefighters of equal rank and qualification to trade time so that employees in the fire protection 

service may be absent from duty for personal reasons. 

Scope 

This policy shall apply to all 24/48-hour shift personnel except probationary firefighters. Probationary 

firefighters shall not be allowed to trade time except in the case of emergencies. 


It shall be the responsibility of the immediate supervisor of the employees who are trading time to insure 

that such trades do not disrupt the normal day to day operations of the Fire Department. 

Policy 

The practice of trading time shall be deemed to have no effect on the hours of work of an individual 

employee if the following criteria are met: 

A. The trading of time is voluntary between the affected employees and not at the request of the Fire 


B. The reason for trading time is a personal matter of the employee, and not due to the business 

operations of the Fire Department. 

C. The same responsibilities and job duties of the employee asking for a time trade will be assumed 

by the employee working in their place. 

D. All such time trades shall be logged in the appropriate station log to document the times, dates, 

and employees involved in the trade. 

E. The period between the time traded and the pay back shall be made within the pay period. 

F. The supervisor of the employees involved in the time trading has approved the trade prior to the 

occurrence. 





Off Duty Recall 

Purpose 

It is the intention of the Cleveland Fire Department to constantly provide a high level of fire protection to 

the community. It is the responsibility of every department member to assist in meeting this objective. 

Objective 

To establish a systematic process of allowing off duty personnel to be recalled to duty and to establish a 

standard place for personnel to report, an accountability system for the time they are back on duty and a 

process for the dismissal of recalled personnel. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all fire department personnel who may be off duty at the time of an incident. 


It shall be the responsibility of the Incident Commander and/or the Deputy Chief to enforce this policy. All 

Fire Department personnel are subject to emergency recall. It shall be the responsibility of each firefighter 

and officer to comply with this policy. 

Policy 

A. All Cleveland Fire Department personnel shall adhere to the following guidelines. 

B. Failure to comply with any of these procedures will make the non-compliant personnel ineligible 

for compensation for the call and possible disciplinary action. 

C. This policy applies to Battalion responses as well as to “All Call” responses. 

D. All personnel unable to respond to an “All Call” response shall report to the Deputy Chief as soon 

as possible their next scheduled working shift. 

E. When off duty personnel are recalled to duty, they are to report to the scene of the incident or to 

Headquarters as instructed by the communications center with their complete set of protective 

clothing. 

F. Before leaving the scene of an incident or Headquarters all off duty personnel must sign the 

“Recall Log.” 

G. The Communications Center shall use the Recall Data Base to call in the appropriate shift and 

types of personnel needed for the specific incident. 

H. All recalled personnel shall serve in whatever role or capacity is requested of them by the Incident 

Commander regardless of the normal rank or assignment of the individual with the exception of 

the Deputy Chief, who will always be second in command of the Cleveland Fire Department. 





I. No recalled personnel shall leave the incident or Headquarters until the incident has been 

terminated and all apparatus back in service, unless specific permission is granted to an individual 

due to extenuating circumstances by the Incident Commander. 

Procedure 

A. All off-duty response personnel shall report to any incident when summoned. 

B. Upon arrival at an incident, personnel shall not park within 100 feet of any fire apparatus or any 

emergency equipment. 

C. At the scene, one (1) lane of the roadway shall be maintained for egress. 

D. All personnel shall report directly to Command and provide him/her with an accountability tag. 

E. All personnel shall carry out any action ordered by Command. 

F. All off-duty personnel shall operate in cooperation with on-duty personnel in order to achieve the 

tactical priorities. 

G. All personnel shall remain on the incident scene until released by the Incident Commander. 

H. In order to facilitate this policy, Fire Department personnel may keep their protective clothing 

with them when off-duty. 

Secondary Employment 

Cleveland Fire Department employees, in accordance with City policy, are allowed to have outside 

employment provided that there is no conflict of interest or impairment of work performance for the 

Cleveland Fire Department, and the employment does not cast discredit or create an embarrassment for the 

City or the Fire Department. 

All outside employment must receive written approval from the Fire Chief. Since all Fire Department 

personnel are subject to emergency recall, appropriate secondary employment phone numbers or other such 

phone numbers or other means of notification must be made available to the Fire Chief so that the 

employee may be contacted for emergency recall at his/her secondary employment. 

Battalion Recall 

All nonexempt off duty personnel shall be guaranteed a minimum of two (2) hours of pay at one and onehalf 

their regular rate. If the incident lasts longer than one hour, personnel shall continue to be paid at their 

overtime rate on an hour for hour basis. 

General Recall (all off duty) 

In the event of a “Three Alarm or All Off Duty Call” all off duty nonexempt personnel and Battalion 

Commanders shall be guaranteed a minimum of three (3) hours of pay at one and one-half their regular 

rate. If the incident lasts longer than one hour, personnel shall continue to be paid at their overtime rate on 

an hour for hour basis. If personnel are recalled and the call is canceled before they have had time to get to 

the scene they must go to the Headquarters Station and sign the Recall Log. 





Pagers/Radios 

Personnel who are issued pagers/radios are asked to carry them when they are off-duty, and leave a phone 

number with the Communications Center where they may be reached when off-duty. 

Unauthorized Response 

Personnel who respond to fire calls without being officially requested to do so by the Fire Department will 

not be compensated without approval from the Incident Commander. 

Exceptions 

1. Although Fire Department personnel are asked to wear their pagers when off-duty, this shall not 

place such restrictions on them that they are not able to perform their daily activities. Personnel 

from time to time may be out of town or have other justifiable reasons why they may not be 

available for recall. 

2. If there is sufficient justification, the Fire Chief may exempt personnel from off-duty recall. 

3. Personnel shall not respond to a routine recall if they have a response time greater than thirty (30) 

minutes. 





Disciplinary Action 

Purpose 

To establish policy and procedures for administering disciplinary actions. 

Objective 

To establish a policy for all Fire Department Officers for the administering of disciplinary actions in a fair 

and just manner. This policy should coincide with the disciplinary policy established by the City of 

Cleveland Personnel Manual Section VIII. 

Scope 



Every Fire Department member is responsible for adhering to the policies and procedures outlined in the 

Cleveland Fire Department Operations Manual. When the policies and procedures are broken it is the 

responsibility of all Fire Department Officers to administer the proper disciplinary action. 

Administering Disciplinary Action 

A. Counseling and Oral Reprimands may be administered by any Fire Department Officer. Memos 

shall be forwarded to the Fire Chief for his file. The officer(s) administering any type of 

disciplinary action should document this action in a personal journal for future reference. 

B. Written Reprimands shall be forwarded through the chain of command to the Deputy Chief, Chief, 

and Human Resources Director for their approval before being issued. They shall then be 

forwarded to the City Manager for his/her approval and signature. 

C. Demotion and Suspension shall be at the discretion of the Fire Chief and City Manager. 

D. Dismissal shall be at the discretion of the Fire Chief and City Manager. 





Policy 

Whenever an employee’s performance, work habits or personal conduct fall below a desirable level, 

Officers shall inform employees promptly and specifically of such lapses and shall give them counsel and 

assistance. If appropriate and justified, a reasonable period of time for improvement may be allowed before 

initiating disciplinary action. In some instances, a specific incident in and of itself may justify severe initial 

disciplinary action up to and including termination. The action to be taken depends on the seriousness of 

the incident and the whole pattern of the employee’s past performance and conduct. The types of 

disciplinary actions are: 

A. Counseling 

B. Verbal Warning 

C. Written Reprimand 

D. Suspension 

E. Demotion 

F. Dismissal 

Counseling 

Whenever a member’s performance, work habits, or personal conduct fall below a desirable level, his/her 

Officer shall inform the member promptly and specifically of such lapses and shall give him/her counsel 

and assistance. If appropriate and justified, a reasonable period of time for improvement may be allowed 

before initiating disciplinary actions. 

Oral Reprimand 

The oral warning will follow the same process as the Counseling Session with the one exception. A memo 

will be forwarded to the Fire Chief and placed in a file in the Chief’s office. The Supervisor should inform 

the employee that if the conduct continues, further disciplinary action will be taken. 

Written Reprimand 

In situations where counseling or a verbal warning has not resulted in the expected improvement, or when 

more severe initial action is warranted, the employee will be informed of the undesirable level of conduct 

and written reprimand will be prepared and presented to the employee. The reprimand may also be sent by 

certified mail if appropriate. The written reprimand should be signed by the employee acknowledging 

receipt of the reprimand. If the employee refuses to sign the reprimand, the Supervisor should note this on 

the reprimand, and the note should be initialed by the Supervisor and any other witnesses present when the 

employee was issued the reprimand. The Supervisor should inform the employee that if the conduct 

continues, further disciplinary action will be taken. 





Suspension 

An employee may be suspended without pay by the City Manager or Fire Chief, for a period of time 

deemed appropriate under the circumstances. Pursuant to the Appeals Procedures, a written statement of 

the reason for suspension shall be submitted to the employee affected and to the City Manager at least 

twenty-four (24) hours prior to the time the suspension becomes effective, provided, that during the 

advanced notice period the employee may be retained in duty status, placed on leave, or suspended with or 

without pay at the discretion of the Fire Chief. The employee will be granted a hearing before the City 

Manager, upon request, pursuant to the appeals process. An employee determined to be innocent of the 

charges shall be returned to duty with full pay for the period of suspension. All records associated with a 

suspension shall become a permanent part of the employee’s personnel file. Under certain circumstances 

(such as those listed in the section below), an employee may be suspended without twenty-four (24) hours 

notice, if it is in the best interest of the City. 

Demotion 

An employee may be subject to demotion a form of disciplinary action in situations where other forms of 

disciplinary action have not resulted in the expected improvement, the conduct does not warrant dismissal, 

and there is a position available for which the employee is qualified. Pursuant to the Appeals Procedure, 

notice of the demotion will be given to the affected employee at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to the 

time the demotion becomes effective. The employee, upon request, will be granted a hearing before the 

City Manager. Reasons for demotion may include, but shall not be limited to: 

A. Insubordination. 

B. Failure to enforce the guidelines in this manual. 

C. Incompetence or inefficiency in the performance of duties. 

D. Intentionally upsetting the morale of the Department. 

E. Disgraceful personal conduct or language toward the public or toward fellow employees. 

Dismissal 

The Fire Chief and City Manager may dismiss an employee for good of the City service. Reasons for 

dismissal may include, BUT SHALL NOT BE LIMITED TO: 

A. Incompetence or inefficiency in the performance of duties. 

B. Conviction of a criminal offense or of a malfeasance involving moral turpitude. 

C. Violation of any lawful and reasonable regulation, order, or direction made or given by a superior; 

or insubordination that constitutes a serious breach of discipline. 

D. Being intoxicated or drinking any intoxicating beverages while on duty, or being under the 

influence of a drug or narcotic while on duty. 

E. Theft, destruction, carelessness, or negligence in the use of the property of the City. 





F. Disgraceful personal conduct or language toward the public or toward fellow officers or 

employees. 

G. Unauthorized absences or abuse of leave privileges. 

H. Incapacity to perform essential functions of a job because of a permanent or chronic physical or 

mental defect that cannot be reasonably accommodated. 

I. Acceptance of any valuable consideration which was given with the expectation of influencing the 

employee in the performance of his/her duties. 

J. Falsification of records or use of official position for personal advantage. 

K. Loss of an employee’s drivers license and driving privileges by due process of law when the 

employee’s position makes the operation of a motor vehicle necessary in the performance of 

his/her duties. 

L. Violation of any of the provisions of the City Charter, Personnel Ordinance, or these rules. 

The employee shall be furnished an advance written notice containing the nature of the proposed action, the 

reasons therefore, and his/her right to appeal the charges orally and/or in writing before the City Council, 

notwithstanding provisions noted in Section VIII; subsection J of the City Personnel Manual, indicating 

that during the advance notice period the employee may be retained in duty status, placed on leave, or 

suspended with or without pay at the discretion of the Fire Chief. The notice shall be furnished at least one 

(1) calendar week prior to the proposed effective date of the action. If the employee fails to respond to the 

advance notice pursuant to the appeals process, the proposed action shall be effective on the date specified 

with no need for further action. 



Grievance Procedures 



The most effective accomplishment of the work of the Cleveland Fire Department requires prompt 

consideration and equitable adjustments of employee grievances. A grievance is defined as an employee’s 

feeling of dissatisfaction, a difference, disagreement, or dispute arising between an employee and his 

supervisor and/or employer with some aspect of his/her employment, application, or interpretation of 

regulations and policies, or some management decision affecting him/her. A grievance can be something 

real, alleged, or a misunderstanding concerning rules and regulations or an administrative order involving 

the employee’s health, safety, physical facilities, equipment or material used, employee evaluation, 

promotion, position classification, transfer, layoff, recall and any other related items. Such 

misunderstandings, complaints, points of view and opinions will be considered a grievance except in cases 

where they relate to personnel action arising out of pay, suspension, and dismissal. 

It is the desire of the Cleveland Fire Department to address grievances informally, and both supervisors and 

employees are encouraged and expected to make every effort to resolve problems as they arise. However, it 

is recognized that there will be occasional grievances, which will be resolved only after a formal appeal and 

review. 

Accordingly the following procedure is established to insure fair and impartial review: 

STEP ONE: The employee makes an oral or written presentation of the grievance to their assigned 

Officer/Supervisor within twenty (20) working days from the incident which prompted the 

grievance. It shall be the Officer/Supervisor’s responsibility to promptly investigate the grievance, 

and through the chain of command, discuss the matter with the Fire Chief, and take action if 

possible. The Officer/Supervisor shall inform the employee in writing of the decision and any 

action taken within seven (7) working days from the date the grievance was filed. 

STEP TWO: If the grievance cannot be resolved between the employee and the Officer/Supervisor 

during Step A, the employee may reduce the complaint or grievance to writing and request that the 

written statement be delivered, through the chain of command, to the Fire Chief within three (3) 

working days of receipt of the Officer/Supervisor’s response. If the employee is not satisfied with 

the response of the Fire Chief, he or she must proceed to Step 3. 

STEP THREE: If the grievance is not resolved with the Fire Chief, the employee may request, in writing 

within three (3) working days, review by the Human Resources Committee. The Committee shall 

make such investigation and obtain the information sufficient to review the grievance within seven 

(7) working days, and will respond to the employee and the Fire Chief in writing. 

STEP FOUR: If the employee is not satisfied with the Human Resources Committee’s response, the 

employee may, within three (3) working days of the receiving the Committee’s response, request 

in writing a hearing with the City Manager. The City Manager shall have ten (10) calendar days to 

schedule a hearing after which a written response shall be made to the employee with copies to 

their assigned Officer/Supervisor and the Fire Chief. Every attempt will be made to resolve the 

employee’s grievance, but the decision of the City Manager shall be final and binding on all 

parties involved unless appealed to Chancery Court by the employee of the City. 





Appeals Process 

Any Fire Department employee reprimanded, suspended, or dismissed may submit a request in writing to 

the City Manager to have the action reviewed. An employee must submit the request for an appeal within 

two (2) working days of receipt of notification of the disciplinary action, and must also state his/her intent 

to have representation, and to name the representative(s). The City Manager shall schedule a hearing within 

ten (10) working days of the receipt of the employee’s request for appeal. The action of the City Manager 

shall be final and binding on all parties involved unless appealed to Chancery Court by the employee. 

However, if the City Manager determines that procedures established by law were not followed by the 

appropriate Officer/Supervisor and/or Fire Chief, the decision of the City Manager shall be binding on all 

parties involved unless appealed to Chancery Court by the employee or the City. 





Chapter V 

Alarms and Responses 

General Response and Firefighting Instructions 

Purpose 

To establish response guidelines to fire calls and other incidents. 

Objective 

To provide the Communications Center and Fire Department Command Officers with a response guideline 

to the most common type of incidents. 

Scope 

These procedures are the minimum response requirements. It shall be the Battalion Commander’s or Shift 

OIC’s responsibility to assess every incident response and to use his/her good judgment as to the response 

of additional apparatus and manpower. The nature of the incident and the information taken from the 

person who makes the emergency call are critical to the Battalion Commander and the Communications 

Center Dispatchers in deciding the type of alarm response. The Battalion Commander/Shift OIC shall keep 

informed and gather as much additional information as possible while en route to the incident and upgrade 

the response if necessary. 

Structure Fires 

Within City Limits and Fringe Area 

The Cleveland Fire Department will respond to all reported structure fires within the city limits or fringe 

area with a minimum of two Engine Companies, one Ladder Company, one Truck Company and one 

Command vehicle. A third Engine Company will respond non-emergency and may upgrade to an 

emergency response once it is determined that there is a confirmed fire and an emergency response is 

appropriate. An off-duty Battalion or additional resources may be called at the OIC’s discretion. 

Response to Structure Fire Scenes 

A. Upon arrival to the fire scene, the first arriving Engine Company Officer shall give a clear and 

concise report of conditions to all incoming units and then begin a scene size-up. 

B. No attack on a working fire (except wild land) shall be made using a hose-line less than 1¾" 

in diameter. Additional hose-lines will be deployed at the discretion of the Incident 

Commander. 

C. The Officer who first arrives at the scene shall make the decision whether or not to lay a supply 

line and notify all incoming equipment of this decision. 

D. The second Engine Company may lay a supply line or pump the sprinkler or standpipe system if 

available. If there is no sprinkler or standpipe system, the second Engine Company will bring 

supply lines and set up the water supply. 





E. Off-duty firefighters responding to the scene shall report to the Incident Commander or 

Accountability Officer. 

F. When Fire Department personnel are working on or from a ladder (with the exception of any 

ladder under 8 feet in length) they shall lock in the ladder. If the procedure of the Fire Department 

(i.e., to lock a leg in the ladder) cannot be used, then a safety belt shall be required. 

Responsibilities after a Fire 

Duties of fire personnel 

A. Upon returning to the fire stations all tools, SCBA and equipment used at a fire shall be inspected, 

serviced and cleaned before being returned to service. 

B. All damaged hose shall be marked, reported the appropriate Officer/Supervisor and removed from 

service. 

C. Drivers and Officers assigned to Engines are responsible for all hose and equipment being 

reloaded, replaced and/or repaired and properly fueled (not under ¾ full). 

Duties of Fire Officers after a fire 

The Officer in charge shall have the authority to determine the number of personnel needed to restore 

equipment and clean up at the station after returning from a fire. This includes all off-duty and Cleveland 

volunteers after a fire or return to station from an emergency response. It shall be the responsibility of 

Officers in Charge to maintain proper records of all personnel both off duty and volunteer during their 

assigned duties. 

Vehicle, Dumpster, Brush, Grass, Woods and Trash Fires 

City and Fringe Area 

In this type of fire, the Engine Company assigned to the district in which the incident occurs will respond to 

the scene. Additional Engine Companies or resources may be requested at the OIC’s discretion. 

Vehicle Extrication/Accident with injuries 

Inside the City Limits 

The Cleveland Fire Department Engine Company assigned to the district in which the incident occurs will 

respond to the scene to provide First Response medical intervention, if necessary, and assist the local EMS 

provider by extricating any victims from the accident and/or aiding EMS personnel in the packaging and 

removal of injured patients. The on-duty Commander/Shift OIC may respond to the scene if the 

information received from the Communications Center warrants such a response. 





Alarm Responses 

Purpose 

To provide a policy establishing alarm and response procedures for the Cleveland Fire Department. 

Objective 

A. To minimize radio traffic. 

B. To prescribe types of alarms. 

C. To prescribe company response. 

D. To prescribe mutual aid assistance as to the alarm. 

Scope 

This policy will prescribe which companies will respond to each alarm designation, including mutual aid 

calls. 


The Communications Center is generally responsible for initiating the first alarm. The Commander/Shift 

OIC shall be responsible for upgrading/downgrading all alarms. 

Policy 

All personnel shall adhere to this policy. 

Procedure 

A. The Commander/Shift OIC should generally be the only one to upgrade/downgrade an alarm. 

B. Command may jump alarms. Example: From a First Alarm to a Third or Special Alarm. If this 

occurs, all intermediate alarms, including the highest requested will be dispatched. 

C. Command has the option of the additional alarm company/ies: reporting to the scene, staging near 

the scene, or covering a station. 

D. Any Special alarm request not outlined in this policy shall be specified by Command. 





Alarm Definitions 

A. Still Alarm 

Any alarm where a single Company responds non-emergency. This may include, but is not limited to, 

investigations, non-injury Motor Vehicle Accidents, and citizen assistance. 

B. General Alarm 

Any alarm where a single Company responds emergency. This may include, but is not limited to, vehicle, 

grass, dumpster fires, MVA’s with injuries, gas odors (outdoors), mutual aid, etc. 

C. First Alarm 

Any alarm where multiple companies respond emergency. This may include, but is not limited to, 

automatic fire alarms, High Occupancy Buildings, smell of smoke or gas in a building, structure fires, etc. 

D. Second Alarm 

An additional alarm sounded for a prescribed complement of companies and manpower to support the first 

alarm Companies. 

E. Third Alarm 

An additional alarm sounded for a prescribed complement of Companies and all off-duty manpower to 

support those Companies already committed. 

F. Recall Alarm 

A call for off-duty personnel to respond to duty. 

G. Special Alarm 

An alarm sounded for additional or special resources to achieve the tactical priorities. This may include, but 

is not limited to, manpower, apparatus, foam, Red Cross, police, EMS, etc. This alarm usually would 

typically be used when Cleveland Fire Department resources are at risk of being depleted or specialized 

resource/s is needed. 



Assignment of Resources 

A. Still Alarm 



1. One (1) Engine Company from the appropriate station. 

2. Any Chief Officer, Battalion Commander, Safety/Training Officer or Fire Inspector may 

potentially be used to resolve this type of alarm. 

B. General Alarm 

1. One (1) Engine Company from the nearest in-district station. 

2. Battalion Commander (at their discretion). 

3. A Chief Officer, Safety/Training Officer or Fire Inspector may respond if necessary. 

C. First Alarm 

1. Two (2) Engine Companies from the nearest in-district station and next closest station. 

2. One (1) Truck and Ladder Company. 

3. One (1) Battalion Commander/Shift OIC. 

4. One (1) Engine Company to be used for a Rapid Intervention Team (RIT). 

5. Battalion on-call if necessary. 

D. Second Alarm 

1. One (1) Engine Company from an available station. 

2. One Ladder Company if not already on the scene and if necessary. 

3. Fire Chief and Deputy Fire Chief. 





E. Third Alarm 

1. One (1) Engine Company from an available station. 

2. All off-duty recall. 

3. Mutual aid to be requested from Tri-State Mutual Aid. Type of apparatus to respond and 

their staging area is at the discretion of the Incident Commander. 

4. Bradley County EMS. 

5. Bradley County Fire/Rescue. 

6. Public Information Officer 

7. Chaplain 

G. Special Alarm 

All requests shall come from Command and shall be in response to specific needs. Command shall be as 

specific as possible when requesting mutual aid. 

1. Engines, Tankers, Tele-Squirt etc. -- Tri-State Mutual Aid Association. 

2. Manpower -- Bradley County Fire/Rescue. 

3. Heavy rescue -- Bradley County Fire/Rescue and Tri-State Mutual Aid (Specify use). 

4. Hazmat – Cleveland Fire Department and Bradley County Fire/Rescue Hazmat Team. 

5. Lighting -- Bradley County Fire/Rescue. 

6. Foam -- Tri-State Mutual Aid. (Specify type and quantity). 

7. Chaplain -- Cleveland Fire Department Chaplain. 

8. PIO -- Cleveland Fire Department Public Information Officer. 





Automatic Fire Alarms 

Purpose 

To provide a policy for the proper handling of Automatic Fire Alarms received by the Communications 

Center. 

Objective 

To establish guidelines in order that Fire Department personnel may effectively and safely handle 

responses to Automatic Fire Alarms, secure the scene and place equipment and personnel back in service as 

quickly as possible. With the increasing number of automatic fire alarms being installed in homes and 

businesses, it is necessary for guidelines and policies to be established. 

Scope 



The responsibility for the enforcement of this policy rests with the Commander/Shift OIC. 





Policy 

It is the policy of the Cleveland Fire Department to consider every Fire Call an emergency, regardless of 

how the alarm is received. It is also the responsibility of the owner of the automatic fire alarm to provide 

the Alarm Company with the names and phone numbers of responsible persons to contact in the event of an 

emergency. The Cleveland Fire Department will follow the following guidelines when responding to 

automatic fire alarms: 

A. Upon arrival make a site survey of the structure. If the structure is secured and there is nothing 

visible, check all windows, doors and other areas for smoke or fire. If the structure is sprinkled, 

check for a water flow. If no fire or smoke is found, and in your judgment you feel this is an alarm 

malfunction, do not make forcible entry. Wait for person responsible to arrive to unlock the 

structure and then make an interior search with the responsible. 

B. If upon arrival there is evidence of fire or any other emergency make forcible entry and begin fire 

suppression or take what other actions are necessary. 

C. Due to the increasing number of calls responding to automatic alarms we must establish a timeframe 

for remaining on the scene of what (using sound judgment) will be considered alarm 

malfunctions or false alarms. It is the responsibility of the owner of the automatic alarm to provide 

the Fire Department with a responsible person to gain access to a secured structure as quickly as 

possible. Therefore, if in our judgment the alarm is a malfunction of the system or a false alarm, 

the Cleveland Fire Department will remain on the scene for a maximum of thirty (30) minutes 

after the responsible person or the alarm company has been notified. If a responsible person has 

not arrived within thirty (30) minutes, the Cleveland Fire Department will consider the scene 

secure and place all equipment and personnel back in-service. 

D. In the event the responsible person fails to arrive at the scene, the Incident Commander will notify 

the owner of the alarm as soon as possible and evaluate the situation with them. Explain to the 

owner the expense of making forcible entry when there is an alarm malfunction and the danger of 

leaving the scene when the alarm system is working properly, but there are no visible signs of fire. 

Thus, the response of a responsible person to a secured structure is of utmost importance. 





Weapons of Mass Destruction 

Purpose 

To provide guidelines for responding to incidents involving weapons of mass destruction including 

chemical or biological agents, or explosive devices. 

Objective 

To establish a systematic process to protect the safety of Fire Department personnel when responding to a 

weapons of mass destruction incident. 

Scope 

Incidents involving the use of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) have the potential for injuring or 

killing large numbers of people. Incidents of this type should be managed as hazardous materials incidents 

with mass casualty implications. Additionally an incident involving a WMD is a criminal situation that 

requires the close cooperation of law enforcement agencies. 


It shall be the responsibility of the Incident Commander and/or the Deputy Fire Chief to enforce this policy. 

Policy 

A. It shall be the policy of the Cleveland Fire Department to respond to all incidents, including those 

that are known to be weapons of mass destruction. 

B. It shall be the policy of this Department to avoid placing personnel in undue jeopardy. 





First arriving Unit 

A. Size up the situation based on the following factors: 

B. Duties 

1. Signs and symptoms exhibited by the victims 

a. Tearing eyes 

b. Myosis 

c. Nausea and vomiting 

d. Muscular convulsions 

2. Physical signs at the incident scene 

a. Unusual odors (sharp, musty, fruity, like garlic or newly mowed hay, etc). 

b. Report of small explosion or gaseous cloud release. 

3. Accounts of onlookers or victims 

1. Don SCBA and PPE 

For all responders working in the warm zone away from the hot zone, the greater health 

risk is respiratory protection. Donning SCBA offers maximum protection and structural 

firefighting ensembles will protect the skin. 

2. Seal off the area and deny exit or entry. 

Using available personnel, fire line tape, rope or other suitable material, seal off the area 

to ensure that potentially contaminated victims do not vacate the area and are directed to 

the decontamination corridor and that others do not enter the contaminated area. 

3. Establish a Command Post 

a. Be positioned upwind from the incident site (hot zone). 

b. Provide access and egress to the site. 

c. Be easily identified by all personnel, especially non-fire agencies. 





4. Assemble and/or request Resources 

a. Cleveland Fire Department Bradley County Fire/Rescue Haz Mat Team 

b. Bradley County EMS 

c. Law Enforcement 

d. EMA 

5. Assess the need for additional resources 

a. Additional EMS units 

b. TEMA/FEMA 

c. Additional law enforcement (local and state) 

d. FBI Terrorism Task Force 

Incident Commander 

A. Responsibilities 

1. Incident Strategy and Management 

2. Personnel Accountability 

3. Scene Safety 





B. Duties 

1. Upon arrival assume Command and establish the Command Post in a location that is 

upwind and uphill from the incident site, is easily accessed and exited, and can be easily 

identified by all agencies (law enforcement, EMS, local, state and federal agencies). 

Command shall be operated in a unified mode upon the arrival of law enforcement and 

other agencies personnel. 

2. Prepare to coordinate with many representatives from multiple local, state and federal 

agencies. 

3. Evaluate the situation, including the tactical objectives initiated prior to arrival. 

4. Identify the overall strategy, develop the incident action plan, and assign personnel and 

companies consistent with the action plan and standard operating procedures. 

5. Develop an effective incident management organization. 

6. Provide and communicate tactical objectives. If necessary prompt reports from 

operational units to confirm the status of tactical assignments. 

7. Provide the continuity, transfer and termination of Command. 

8. Initiate, maintain and control the communications process. 

9. Develop a hazardous materials sector, decon sector, and an EMS sector. These sectors 

should be staffed with members of the Cleveland/Bradley Haz Mat Team and the Bradley 

County EMS. 

10. Coordinate the formation of the mass casualty decon corridor. 

a. Actual configuration of the corridor is dependent upon the incident site, 

available space and the water supply. 

b. Ensure an adequate water supply for the decon line. 

c. The decon corridor will require a large area. It should be located in the warm 

zone as close as possible to the victim’s original location to avoid having them 

travel too far to enter the corridor. 

d. Communicate with command concerning the number of victims and the need for 

assistance with non-ambulatory victims. 





Chemical Incidents 

A. Scene Management 

1. Establish the triage and treatment line immediately following the mass casualty decon 

corridor. 

2. Ensure that victims do not have to pass through the warm zone or hot zones to proceed to 

the transportation area. 

3. Establish control areas as part of the triage sector. Victims who do not need immediate 

transport can be sent to these areas, while those requiring immediate transport can be 

moved to the transportation area. 

4. Identify building areas or other large areas that can be used to temporarily house victims 

in cold weather. 





Biological Incidents 

Most incidents involving biological agents will likely become noticeable through a public health 

emergency and will require the coordination of EMS responders, emergency room physicians, and the 

public health officials who notice the health effects of an exposure throughout the community. Though the 

involvement of emergency responders may still be significant, the deployment of resources should not 

require the type of scene management associated with a chemical incident. 

There are however those situations in which a threat to release a biological agent will require the action of 

emergency responders. 

A. Scene Management 

1. If the incident is a situation in which a credible threat to initiate such an incident has been 

made, personnel should immediately contact the Battalion Commander for further 

guidance. An example of such a scenario would be the receipt of mail indicating that a 

biological agent (such as anthrax) has been spread. Some factors to consider in evaluating 

these situations include: 

a. Written content of the letter or package 

b. Appearance of the alleged agent (color, composition, density, etc.) as compared 

to a known substance. 

c. Odors (do not sniff the package) that are obvious to anyone in the affected area. 

2. All verified or suspected WMD situations should be handled with caution. Always wear 

the appropriate PPE for the type of incident you are involved in. Be sure the 

suspected substance is packaged properly if it is to be submitted for testing or 

disposal and turned over to the proper agency (usually law enforcement). In the case 

of a biological threat there are available treatments for most biological agents and the 

time between exposure and the need for treatment is as long as 24 hours. This gives 

emergency responders the opportunity to accurately identify an agent before initiating 

treatment. Some elements to consider in possible contamination are: 

a. Whether the substance has the physical properties of the alleged agent. 

b. Whether the agent has been exposed to sunlight or the environment for more 

than three hours. 

c. Minimizing the number of persons exposed to the letter or package. 

d. Assessing the need for additional resources. 

e. Whether decon is necessary. Decontamination for a suspected biological agent 

should only be initiated if the victims came in physical contact with the 

substance. In this instance the victims should remove their outer clothing and 

personal articles and should shower with soap and water. (use of hazmat decon 

showers is discouraged for this decon; use of indoor showers is preferred and 

acceptable). Personal articles should be placed in doubled plastic bags and saved 

as evidence for low enforcement authorities. 





f. Potentially exposed victims should not be transported to the hospital unless the 

substance is confirmed as a biological agent. Names and telephone numbers of 

exposed victims should be documented so that notifications can be made 

regarding the outcome of substance testing. 





Bomb Threats 

Communications Center Responsibility 

A. The person receiving the call notifying the department of the receipt of a bomb threat will gather 

as much information about the threat as possible including: 

1. Whether the recipient believes the threat is a hoax or is real. 

2. The threatened time of detonation. 

3. The exact or approximate location of device. 

4. A description of the device. 

5. The construction of the device. 

6. What will cause the device to explode 

7. The reason for the placement of the device at a particular location. 

8. The past history of any other threats or actual devices found at the facility. 

B. Via telephone and not over the radio, the Communications Center will dispatch a Cleveland Police 

Department patrol unit, a patrol supervisor, and a Cleveland Fire Department Commander/Shift 

OIC and Engine Company. The Communications Center will advise the assigned units of all 

information that could be gathered concerning the threat. 

C. The Cleveland Fire Department Commander and Engine Company shall carry out the following 

duties: 

1. Stage in an area no closer than 1000 feet of the facility. 

2. Discontinue radio and cell phone transmissions within 600 feet of the threatened facility. 

3. The Commander/OIC will establish a temporary Command Post in conjunction with the 

Cleveland Police Department. (It can be inside the facility, a vehicle, or any post with 

telephone capabilities.) 

4. The Cleveland Police Department will be in charge of the scene. The Cleveland Fire 

Departments role will be to standby unless there is a detonation. If there is a detonation 

the Fire Department will switch to a rescue/fire suppression mode and summon additional 

resources if needed. 





Discovery of a Suspected Device 

A. A “suspected device” is defined as any package, container or exposed ordnance which by its 

location, construction and the circumstances surrounding its discovery leads to the suspicion that it 

may be an explosive/incendiary device. Any suspected device should be considered a “bomb” 

until determined otherwise by a qualified Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician. 

B. The senior Cleveland Police Department patrol supervisor and the Cleveland Fire Department 

Commander/OIC shall establish a field Command Post. The senior Cleveland Police Department 

patrol supervisor remains responsible for the scene until relieved by a higher-ranking supervisor. 

1. Placement of the Command Post should take into consideration such factors as the size of 

the device, explosive capability, nature of the facility and danger to personnel. A safe 

distance is usually considered to be 600 to 2000 feet, under cover. 

2. The senior Cleveland Police Department patrol supervisor shall advise the 

Communications Center and all law enforcement personnel on the scene of the location 

of the Command Post using land phone lines or verbal communication. 

3. The senior Cleveland Police Department patrol supervisor shall advise the 

Communications Center, by land phone line or by verbal communication, to notify the 

following support personnel: 

a. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal technician on duty/call; 

b. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal supervisor; 

c. Ambulance and medical personnel; 

d. The Cleveland Fire Department. 

C. Cleveland Fire Department Engine Companies shall stage at a safe distance from the scene as 

determined by the Commander/OIC. The Cleveland Fire Department will be in standby by mode 

unless there is a detonation, and then they will switch to a rescue/fire suppression mode. Duties 

other than fire suppression may be assigned by the Commander/OIC. Additional Engine 

Companies and/or personnel if needed will be requested by the Incident Commander. 





Post Blast Investigation 

A. “Post-blast investigation” is defined as the containment and security of the scene of an unexpected 

explosive detonation or incendiary conflagration, including clearing the scene of explosive 

material, collection, recording and packaging of recovered evidence and the investigative process 

to determine the device used and the identity of the perpetrator. 

1. Upon notification of an explosive detonation, the Communications Center shall take the 

following actions: 

a. Dispatch a Cleveland Police Department patrol unit and supervisor to seal off 

the area and protect the scene. It should be noted that this explosion may be one 

of many or a diversion for other types of criminal activity. 

b. Dispatch the Cleveland Fire Department and Bradley County Emergency 

Medical Service personnel to the scene cautioning them of the potential danger 

of secondary explosions. Fire Department and Emergency Medical Service 

personnel should take only those actions necessary to preserve life while 

exercising caution to reduce injury to themselves and avoiding the actual seat of 

the explosion, if possible. 

2. The Cleveland Fire Department Commander/OIC shall establish a field Command Post. 

Placement of the Command Post should take into consideration such factors as the size of 

the device, explosive capability, nature of the facility and danger to personnel. A safe 

distance is usually considered to be 600 to 2000 feet, under cover. Care should be taken 

to inspect the area of the Command Post for any possible secondary device. 

3. Protect the seat of the explosion as a crime scene. Only fire and medical personnel will be 

allowed near the scene as necessary to care for injured persons and prevent further 

destruction of personnel. Other explosive devices may be present designed to cause 

causalities among emergency response personnel. 

4. In the event of any unplanned detonation, whether during a training exercise or on the 

scene of an incident, the following personnel shall be notified and shall conduct the postblast 

investigation: Cleveland Police Department Internal Affairs Division, Safety 

Coordinator, the Bomb Squad Commander and the Cleveland Fire Department Arson 

Investigator. The scene shall be treated as a crime scene with proper documentation of 

entry. 





Evidence Collection 

A. The incident scene shall be searched for evidence by the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) 

technicians. All significant items of evidence shall be carefully recorded by sketch and 

photographs prior to removal; evidence shall be properly labeled, packaged and tagged prior to 

shipment to a crime laboratory for analysis. At the discretion of the senior EOD technician, the 

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) or the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) 

may be called to assist in the collection of evidence and evidence may be shared with the FBI, 

ATF, and the State Crime Lab for analysis purposes. 

B. The Cleveland Fire Department Arson Investigator shall exercise primary responsibility for the 

investigation of incendiary devices with the assistance from the EOD Team. It shall be the 

responsibility of the senior EOD technician on the scene to contact the Arson Investigator. 

Jurisdiction on federally owned property 

A. The U. S. Postal Service shall exercise primary jurisdiction in cases involving detonations and 

suspected devices at postal facilities or mail in transit, 

B. The ATF shall exercise primary jurisdiction in cases involving detonations and suspected devices 

at U.S. Treasury facilities and regulations dealing with the use, storage, or transportation of 

explosives. 

C. The FBI shall exercise primary jurisdiction in cases involving detonations or suspected devices on 

U. S. government facilities other than U. S. Postal or Treasury buildings. In addition, explosive 

device incidents occurring at universities, the FBI shall handle federally funded facilities or those 

that suggest terrorist involvement. 





Carbon Monoxide Emergencies 

Purpose 

To provide a policy for the proper handling of carbon monoxide emergencies. 

Objective 

To establish guideline in order that members may effectively handle carbon monoxide (CO) emergencies, 

while insuring the safety of building occupants and emergency personnel with limited exposure to the 

hazardous area (s). 

Scope 

The Cleveland Fire Department is responsible for responding to, and investigating a reported CO detector 

sounding or a suspected CO problem. The Communication Center should determine whether anyone is 

symptomatic or feeling ill. Typical symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include flu-like symptoms, 

headaches, dizziness, light-headedness, nausea, convulsions, and unconsciousness. If anyone is 

symptomatic, notify the fire department and send an ambulance. If alarm only is sounding, notify the fire 

department. 

A primary first concern is the safety of Fire Department personnel. If there is any reason to suspect the 

presence of CO in a structure (symptomatic victims or the CO detector detects CO at the entry point), no 

entry is to be made by personnel without fully donned and operating SCBA’s and all PPE. Additional 

resources are to be called to assist or perform search and/or rescue operation if needed. 


The Incident Commander shall be responsible for enforcing this policy. 

General Information 

A. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless deadly gas. Because you cannot see, taste, or smell 

it, carbon monoxide can kill you before you know it’s there. Everyone is at risk for carbon 

monoxide poisoning. Experts believe, however, that individuals with greater oxygen requirements 

such as unborn babies, infants, children, senior citizens and people with coronary or respiratory 

problems are at greater risk. 

B. The greater danger of carbon monoxide is its attraction to hemoglobin in the bloodstream. CO is 

breathed in through the lungs and bonds with hemoglobin in the blood, displacing the oxygen that 

cells need to function. When CO is present in the air, it rapidly accumulates in the blood, forming 

a toxic compound known as carboxyhemoglobin (COHb). Carboxyhemoglobin causes symptoms 

similar to the flu, such as headaches, fatigue, nausea, dizzy spells, confusion and irritability. As 

levels of COHb increase, vomiting, loss of consciousness and eventually brain damage or death 

can result. 





C. Carbon monoxide is a by-product of combustion, present whenever fuel is burned. It is produced 

by common home appliances, such as gas or oil furnaces, refrigerators or clothes dryers, water 

heaters, fireplaces, charcoal grills, gas ranges, wood burning stoves, and space heaters. Fumes 

from automobiles also contain carbon monoxide and can enter a home through walls or doorways 

if a car is left running in an attached garage or basement. All of these sources can contribute to a 

CO problem in the home. If a home is vented properly and is free from appliance malfunctions, air 

pressure fluctuations or airway blockages, carbon monoxide will most likely be safely vented to 

the outside. But in today’s “energy-efficient” homes this is frequently not the case. Insulation 

meant to keep warm air in during winter months and cool air in during summer months can trap. 

CO-polluted air in a home year-round. Furnace heat exchangers can crack, vents can become 

blocked, and inadequate air supply for combustion appliances can cause conditions known as back 

drafting or reverse stacking, which forces contaminated air back into the residence. 

Policy 

A. The Battalion Commander/OIC shall be responsible for having a gas monitoring device at all 

incidents involving carbon monoxide and take readings to determine the level of contamination. 

B. Responses to carbon monoxide emergencies are considered general alarms. The Battalion 

Commander/Shift OIC may determine the mode of response. 

C. Verification will be made if the alarm is coming from a smoke detector or a CO detector. The 

cause of the alarm will be determined, i.e., a true alarm, low battery indication, poor location of 

device, etc. 

1. If it is a smoke detector alarm: 

a. Investigate the cause of the alarm. 

b. Take necessary action to mitigate the situation 

2. If it is CO: 

a. Determine if anyone is exhibiting any symptoms of possible carbon monoxide 

poisoning; if so, immediately evacuate the structure. 

b. Request the necessary EMS response. Anyone with symptoms of CO poisoning 

should be seen by a physician. 

c. Begin the investigation procedure. 

3. If no one exhibits any symptoms of CO poisoning, it will not be necessary to evacuate or 

ventilate the structure unless a level of over 9-ppm is detected by the CO monitor. 





4. The Incident Commander should request a Gas Company representative to respond to the 

scene if: 

a. A CO level of over 9-ppm is indicated on the CO monitor. 

b. The responding Engine Company shuts off the gas appliance. 

c. Someone is showing signs of being ill due to carbon monoxide. 

d. The Incident Commander feels a response by the Gas Company is needed. 

e. Upon arrival of a Gas Company representative, Command shall advise the 

representative of the status of the incident including well being of occupants, 

action taken. Assist the Gas Company as needed. 

f. Request the Police and/or Sheriff’s Department for assistance, if needed, to 

assist in scene security and/or traffic control. 

D. Carbon Monoxide Investigations (Guidelines) 

1. Comply with all procedures recommended by the manufacturer of the monitoring 

equipment. 

2. Initiate a survey of the premises to determine if there are any amounts above 9-ppm of 

carbon monoxide present. 

3. All members shall make complete use of the SCBA in any atmosphere that is in excess of 

35-ppm of CO. 

4. Reading of 9-ppm or less: 

a. Inform the occupant(s) that our instrument did not detect an elevated level of 

CO at this time. 

b. Recommend that occupants check their CO detector per manufacturer. 

c. Attempt to reset detector. 

d. Inform occupants that if it activates again to call 911. 





5. Reading of more than 9-ppm but less than 100-ppm: 

a. Any reading above 9-ppm will be considered above normal reading. 

b. Occupants shall be informed that we have detected a potentially dangerous level 

of CO. 

c. Recommend that all persons leave the building until CO is at a safe level. 

d. If it is determined that an appliance is malfunctioning and thereby producing 

CO, it shall be shut down. 

e. Once the structure has been reduced to safe level of CO, the premises may be 

occupied - at the discretion of the occupants. 

f. Attempts should be made to reset the detector. 

g. Inform the occupants that if activated again, call 911. 

h. The occupants shall be informed of the action that has taken place. 

6. Readings of 100-ppm or Greater: 

a. Any reading of 100-ppm or greater - inform the occupant(s) that we have 

detected a potentially lethal level of CO. 

b. Order the occupants to leave the premises immediately. 

c. If it is determined that an appliance is malfunctioning and thereby producing 

CO, it shall be shut down. 

d. Once the structure has been reduced to a safe level of CO, the premises may be 

occupied - at the discretion of the occupant. 

e. Attempt should be made to reset the detector. 

f. Inform the occupant(s) that if activated again, call 911. 





E. Understanding the Affects of Carbon Monoxide on Human Beings: 

35 ppm The maximum allowable concentration for continuous exposure in any eight (8) hour 

period according to OSHA. 

100 ppm In an average healthy person the blood level will not reach a level higher than 10% 

Carboxyhemoglobin within ninety (90) minutes, which means it will have little or no 

affect on the average healthy person. 

200 ppm Slight headache, tiredness, dizziness, nausea after two (2) to three (3) hours exposure. 

Maximum carbon monoxide concentration for exposure at any time as prescribed by 

OSHA. 

400 ppm Frontal headaches within one (1) to two (2) hours of exposure. Life threatening after 

three (3) hours. (Minimum ppm in flue gas according to EPA and AGA/GAMA). 

800 ppm Dizziness, nausea and convulsions within forty-five (45) minutes. Unconsciousness 

within two (2) hours. Death within three (3) hours. 

1600 ppm Headache, nausea, dizziness within twenty (20) minutes. Death within one (1) hour. 

3200 ppm Headache, nausea, dizziness within five (5) to ten (10) minutes. Death within thirty (30) 

minutes. 

6400 ppm Headache, nausea, dizziness within one (1) to two (2) minutes. Death within ten (10) to 

fifteen (15) minutes. 

12,800 ppm Death within one (1) to three (3) minutes. 

NOTE: PPM represents Parts Per Million in the atmosphere. 

1% of carbon monoxide in the atmosphere equals approximately 10,000 PPM. 





Civil Disturbances 

Purpose 

To establish a procedure governing operations on the scene during a civil disturbance. 

Objective 

A. To provide procedures and guidelines that will reconcile the responsibility of this Department to 

respond to an alarm with the responsibility of protecting personnel from undue jeopardy. 

B. To provide procedures governing the operations of this Department during a civil disturbance. 

Scope 

It is the mission of the Cleveland Fire Department to protect life and property. Unfortunately the lives and 

property of innocent people are at risk when there is civil unrest. The policy of the Cleveland Fire 

Department is to protect these innocent people, to the best of our ability, without putting Fire Department 

personnel in undue danger. 


All personnel shall adhere to this policy. It shall be the responsibility of the Incident Commander to enforce 

this policy. 

Policy 

A. It shall be the policy of the Cleveland Fire Department, when requested, to respond to all alarms, 

including those that are known to be involved in a civil disturbance. This request should be made 

by the local law enforcement agency having jurisdiction. 

B. It shall be the policy of this Fire Department to avoid placing personnel in undue jeopardy. 

Procedures 

A. All personnel shall refrain from any verbal or physical actions that may worsen the situation. 

B. Command shall determine safe positions for staging areas. 

C. Command shall act as a liaison to coordinate efforts with the Police or Sheriff’s Department. 

D. Command shall determine the level of Personal Protection required for the incident. 





Known Civil Disturbance 

A. The Cleveland Fire Department shall respond to all alarms, including those that are known to be 

involved in a civil disturbance. The Fire Department will respond when requested by the local law 

enforcement agency having jurisdiction, 

B. The Commander/Shift OIC shall confirm with the Communications Center that the Police and/or 

Sheriff’s Department did request a response from the Fire Department. 

C. Fire Department Companies shall report to a staging area(s) while law enforcement units stabilize 

the situation. When the Police and/or Sheriff’s Department reports the situation is under control, the Fire 

Department Companies shall proceed to the scene and carry out the necessary action. 

Unknown Civil Disturbance 

In this situation, the responding Fire Department Companies are not aware of a civil disturbance until 

arrival on or near the scene. 

A. All Companies/Units should immediately drop to non-emergency traffic, no lights or sirens. 

Warning lights may be required to insure scene safety. 

B. Command shall report the situation to dispatch and request that the Police and/or Sheriff’s 

Department respond. 

C. The Police and/or Sheriff’s Department may or may not be able to advise of the stability of the 

situation. 

D. At Command’s discretion Companies may stage at situations which appear to be unstable with or 

without the Police and/or Sheriff’s Department being on the scene, and/or when advised by the 

Police and/or Sheriff’s Department that the situation is not under control. 

E. At Command’s discretion Companies may move in and carry out any actions necessary to insure 

life safety to those situations which are unstable or not under control. This is the only situation 

where Fire Department personnel may be placed in a potentially dangerous situation. 





Civil Disturbance Develops 

In this situation, the Fire Department Companies are already operating on the scene and a hostile situation 

develops. 

A. The Police and/or Sheriff’s Department shall be notified immediately if a hostile situation seems 

to be developing or has already developed. 

B. At Command’s discretion, the Fire Companies may: 

1. Continue to operate. 

2. Operate with Police and/or Sheriff’s Department assistance. 

3. At Command’s discretion Companies may move in or stage at situations which appear to 

be unstable with or without the Police and/or Sheriff’s Department being on the scene, 

and/or when advised by the Police and/or Sheriff’s Department that the situation is not 

under control. 

4. Pick up all equipment and report to a staging area, or remove all personnel ASAP. 





Electrical Emergencies 

Purpose 

To provide a policy for the proper handling of electrical emergencies. 

Objective 

To establish guidelines in order that members may effectively handle electrical emergencies, while 

providing safety margins with limited exposure to the hazard area. 

Scope 



The responsibility for the enforcement of this policy rests with the Incident Commander and/or the 

Company Officers. 

Policy 

All Fire Department personnel shall use the following guidelines on responses involving electrical fires. 

Personnel must remain on the scene of downed lines, power poles, etc. until they have been de-energized or 

the Utility Company is on the scene and releases the Fire Department. 

Upon Arrival 

A. Determine the type of electrical problem, and request Cleveland Utilities or Volunteer Electric to 

respond if needed. 

B. Give dispatcher proper location of incident (pole number, house number, name of residence if 

possible, and etc.). 

C. Set up operational perimeter. Request Police or Sheriff’s Department for assistance when 

necessary. (The rule of thumb for establishing an electrical incident operational perimeter is to 

maintain a distance of one complete span of wires on either side of the fallen wires.) 

D. Park apparatus outside of the operational perimeter. 





Safety 

A. Do not fight electrical fires unless de-energized or unless a life is in danger. Protect exposures. 

B. Be careful when spotting equipment and hose lines. Electrical lines may fall on apparatus, 

personnel, or hose lines. 

C. Do not walk under transformers; they may contain PCBs or burning oil. (Remember transformers 

can and do explode.) 

D. Wear full protective clothing. 

E. Do not open shutters on vaults. This may cause an explosion due to an accumulation of flammable 

gases. 

F. Keep bystanders clear of the hazardous area. 

G. Stay clear of manhole covers over electrical vaults -- they have been known to blow off and fly as 

far as one hundred fifty (150) feet! 

H. No personnel shall enter underground electrical vaults except to effect rescue, and then only when 

confirmed by Cleveland Utilities or Volunteer Electric personnel on the scene that the vault has 

been de-energized. 

I. When entering an underground electrical vault (de-energized) to effect rescue, personnel must be 

in full protective clothing, including a manned lifeline. 

J. Toxic gas may be formed from electrical fires in vaults -- take necessary precautions. 

K. Do not open pole-mounted switches -- they are for power company personnel only. 

L. Do not assume that telephone wires are not hot -- they may be in contact with a hot wire. 

M. If water is used to protect exposures, use broken stream from maximum distance. 

N. Avoid standing in puddles of run-off water during firefighting operations where energized 

electrical equipment may be involved or nearby. 

O. Assume that all wires down are HOT (energized), and act accordingly. 

P. Do not use non-rated equipment, such as pike poles, non-rated cutters, and non-rated ropes, to 

handle downed wires. 





Wires Down 

A. Members should not move wires unless necessary to rescue victims, and then only after all safety 

precautions have been observed. 

B. Be careful when spotting hose lines and apparatus -- additional lines may fall. 

C. Establish a secure area (operational perimeter); include fences, vehicles, guard rails, railroad 

tracks, and puddles of water which may be electrically energized. 

D. Standby, and keep the public away from the scene until wires are de-energized by the Utility 

Company. 

Electrical Fire Control 

A. Power pole fire -- do not extinguish with water unless life is threatened or a major structural 

component of the power pole is threatened or unless directed to by the Utility Company. 

B. Electrical fires are best handled by shutting down the power source. 

C. Co2 and dry chemical are the best extinguishing agents for electrical fires. 

D. If a structure fire involves electrical service or wiring, the power to the building should be shut off. 

E. Electrical vault fires should be extinguished only after they have been de-energized. 

Vehicle Rescue 

A. Uninjured or mildly injured victims should stay in the vehicle until power to downed lines can be 

secured by the Utility Company. 

B. Do not use non-rated pike poles, non-rated ropes, and/or non-rated equipment to handle downed 

lines during vehicle rescues. 





Flammable and Combustibles Liquids and Gases 

Purpose 

To provide a policy regarding emergency operations that involves flammable and/or combustible liquids 

and gases. 

Objective 

To establish guidelines in achieving the tactical priorities at emergencies involving flammable/combustible 

liquids and gases. 

Scope 

To aid Companies with the basic guidelines in achieving the tactical priorities at emergencies involving 

flammable/combustible liquids and gases. 


The Incident Commander is responsible for the scene and for adherence to the following guidelines. 

Policy 

This policy is designed to handle minor emergencies that can be handled by the Cleveland Fire Department. 

The Incident Commander shall use, but is not limited to, the following guidelines. 

Flammable/Combustible Liquid Leak and/or Spill 

A. Operate to achieve the tactical priorities. 

1. Life Safety 

a. Operate in full protective clothing. 

b. Secure safety perimeters. 

c. Evacuate, if necessary, according to wind direction or level of hazard. 





2. Incident Stabilization 

a. Eliminate sources of ignition. 

b. Reduce or stop leak if it is a contributing factor. 

c. Apply absorbent (If spill requires more absorbent than Cleveland Fire 

Department can supply, the Incident Commander shall notify the Cleveland Fire 

Department Hazardous Materials Team). 

d. Contain spill to area of origin. 

e. Apply foam, if required. 

f. Ventilate buildings 

3. Property Conservation 

a. Remove mobile property from the immediate hazard area. Example -- 

vehicles.(only if the situation warrants. Be aware of hazardous atmospheres.) 

b. Small spills may be cleaned up by the Cleveland Fire Department. 

c. Large spills should be cleaned up by a company ordered by Command or by the 

party responsible for the spill. Request the clean up company to replace any 

materials used. 





B. All materials used should be recorded on the Incident Report. Restock quantities on the apparatus 

as soon as possible when back in quarters. 

Flammable/Non-Flammable Gases 

A. Operate to achieve the tactical priorities. 


a. Remove endangered occupants. 

b. Operate in full protective clothing. 

c. Secure safety perimeters. 

d. Evacuate, if necessary, according to wind direction or level of hazard. 


a. Eliminate sources of ignition. 

b. Reduce or stop flow of gas (May need to call gas company). 


a. Prevent gas from infiltrating structures. 

b. Ventilate structures. 

In any emergency involving flammable/combustible liquids and gases the Cleveland Fire Department 

Hazardous Materials Team may be notified at the time of dispatch. The Bradley County Fire/Rescue 

Hazardous Materials Team may respond to the emergency if requested by the OIC through the 

Communications Center. 

Personnel shall gather all information outlined on the Incident Report. 

Notify the Fire Inspector of any incident involving large spills or requiring code enforcement. 





Hazardous Materials Response 

Purpose 

This procedure provides a basic philosophy and strategic procedure for hazardous materials situations. 

Objective 

Hazardous material incidents encompass a wide variety of potential situations including fires, spills, 

transportation accidents, chemical reactions, explosions and similar events. Hazards involved may include 

toxicity, flammability, radiological hazards, corrosives, explosives, health hazards, chemical reactions and 

combinations of factors. This procedure provides a general framework for handling a hazardous material 

incident, but does not address the specific tactics or control measures for particular incidents. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all personnel responding to a hazardous material incident. 


The Incident Commander is responsible for the enforcement of this policy. 

Dispatch 

Cleveland/Bradley County Communications Center will attempt to obtain all information from the person 

reporting a hazardous material incident. This information should, if possible, include material name and/or 

type, amount, size of container(s), problem (leak, spill, fire, etc.) and dangerous properties of the material. 

The dispatcher should remain on the telephone with the caller, after notifying the Cleveland Fire 

Department, to gain additional information unless the person needs to evacuate the immediate area. Any 

additional information shall be relayed to responding units after they have been dispatched. 

If the call comes from a person with particular knowledge of the hazardous situation, have that person meet 

and direct the arriving units. 

If the initial information is such that a large incident is either imminent or verified then additional 

manpower will be needed and should be requested by the OIC. Communications should have the proper 

notifications on hand based on the level of response and notify those agencies and/or individuals. 

Incident Command System 

As mandated by federal standard and legislation we will use a site-specific incident command system on all 

hazardous materials incidents. 

The IC will appoint a scene Safety Officer to oversee all aspects of scene safety and this individual will 

have contact with command at all times. All other sector safety officers that may be designated will report 

to the Scene Safety Officer. 

Per this standard someone must be designated as Incident Commander (IC), but the decisions that are 

required to be made at a large hazardous materials scene will be more than most individuals will be able to 

handle on their own. A unified command structure may work best for most situations and will be referred to 

here as “Command”. 





The staff component of the ICS can consist of the individuals with special knowledge or resources that will 

be required to safely and efficiently handle the incident. These individuals may consist of, but not be 

limited to, site personnel (maintenance, chemists, etc.), or other technical advisers. 

The following ICS chart will show the possible divisions that may be utilized as needed by the IC. 

Incident 

command 

Scene Safety 

Officer 

Staff 

Logistics Operations Planning Fianance 





First Response 

The first arriving unit shall establish Command, and begin a size-up. The first unit must consciously avoid 

committing itself to a dangerous situation. When approaching, slow down or stop to assess any visible 

activity taking place. Evaluate effects of wind, topography, and location of the situation. 

Command will advise all other units en route to stage until instructed to take specific action. Units must 

stage in a safe location, taking into account wind, spill flow, explosion potential and similar factors in any 

situation. Command must take a careful size-up before deciding on a commitment. 

It may be necessary to take immediate action to make a rescue or evacuate an area, but this should be done 

with an awareness of the risk involved to personnel with the limited protective equipment available. 

The objective of the size-up is to identify the nature and severity of the immediate problem and gather 

sufficient information to formulate a valid action plan. 

A HAZARDOUS MATERIALS INCIDENT REQUIRES A MORE CAUTIOUS AND 

DELIBERATE SIZE-UP THAN MOST EMERGENCY RESPONSE SITUATIONS. 

Avoid premature commitment of companies and personnel to a potentially hazardous location. Proceed 

with caution and focus on recognition and identification, notification, isolation of the incident, and 

protection of the immediate responders and civilians. 

One of the major problems, in many cases, is the ability to identify the type of materials involved in a 

situation, and the hazards presented, before developing strategic goals. Look for clues in the occupancy and 

location, container shape and size, placards and labels, markings and colors, MSDS and shipping papers, 

and the human senses of sight and hearing. Other sources of information available may be site personnel, 

the vehicle operator, on-scene databases, the DOT North American Emergency Response Guidebook, the 

CHRIS manual, or other recognized resources. 

Notification will depend on the “Level of Response” declared. This decision should be one made by the IC 

based on the initial size-up and then appropriate notifications carried out. Basic criteria have been designed 

to help with establishing a Level of Response for immediate use. This will allow communications and other 

sectors to begin notifications and other operations without having to be told by the IC. This level may be 

changed as necessary, both upgrading and downgrading, as the incident continues or stabilizes. 

The criteria for Levels I through IV are shown in the following sections. Initial notifications of local 

resources and mandatory agencies (TEMA) will occur immediately by declaration of the Level of 

Response. Local resources may consist of law enforcement, EMS, EMA, technical experts, and the local 

hospitals if contaminated victims are a possibility. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency will be 

notified on an as needed basis. 

Isolation can be carried out quickly and easily be using the DOT North American Emergency Response 

Guidebook. This resource will give needed information to immediately allow isolation of the scene based 

on the guidelines included. Factors to consider will be potential failure of the vessel, time of day, wind and 

weather, and location of the incident. 

Protection of all responders and civilians is of utmost importance. All responders will be required to don all 

PPE available and be prepared to use it during evacuation if necessary. Under NO circumstances should 

personnel be inside the hot zone without PROPER PPE! Protection of the public will be carried out by 

excluding them from the area, unless they are contaminated. These victims will be “quarantined” at the 

edge of the hot zone. 





Based on the initial size-up and any additional information available, Command will have to formulate 

strategic goals to deal with the incident. 

Most hazardous materials are intended to be maintained in a safe condition for handling and use through 

confinement in a container or protective system. The emergency is usually related to the material escaping 

from the protective container or system and creating a hazard on the exterior. The strategic goals must 

include tactical objectives to get the hazardous material back into a safe container, dispose of it, neutralize 

it, or allow it to dissipate safely. 

The tactical objectives will consist of tactical methods that will identify the specific operations for hazard 

control and identify the resources available and needed to achieve the strategic goals. It may be necessary 

to select one method over another due to the unavailability of a particular resource or to adopt a “holding 

action” to wait for needed equipment, supplies or if a safe option is not available. 

The strategic goal must provide for: 

1. Safety of responders 

2. Safety of citizens by evacuation or in-place sheltering if necessary 

3. Control of the incident 

4. Stabilization of the incident 

5. Return of the scene to normal activity 

The company or agency involved in the hazardous material release shall be responsible for removal and/or 

disposal of all released product. Removal and/or disposal of hazardous materials shall be by private 

company requested by the responsible party or the IC. Local available companies will be listed in the 

resource manual. 

Do not commit personnel and equipment prematurely or “experimenting” with techniques and tactics. 

Many times it is necessary to evacuate and wait for special equipment or expert help. 

Control of Hazardous Area 

A hazardous material incident has three (3) zones associated with the scene. They are the HOT zone, 

Decontamination Corridor, and the COLD zone. 





Hot Zone 

The hot zone is the area in which personnel or civilians are potentially in immediate danger from hazards of 

the material itself. These hazards may be from the material in any physical state; solid, liquid or gas. This is 

established by Command and controlled by the Hazmat Sector. Access to this area will be rigidly controlled 

and only personnel with proper protective equipment, training and an assigned activity will enter. Medical 

control personnel will be assigned to monitor entry and exit of all personnel from the hot zone. The hot 

zone should be geographically described to all responding units. 

Responsibility for control of personnel in this zone includes not only Hazmat Sector personnel, but other 

personnel that think that someone may be in danger of an unauthorized entry. Command is responsible for 

everyone’s safety! 

Decontamination Corridor (Warm Zone) 

This will be the only authorized way in and out of the hot zone. This will allow Hazmat Sector personnel to 

monitor everyone entering and/or leaving the hot zone for proper decontamination. The specific measures 

required decontaminating personnel, equipment or victims will vary with the contaminant, the 

circumstances and the level of contamination. These factors must be considered on a case-by-case basis, 

within the guidelines described in this procedure. 

Hazmat Sector is responsible for assigning a Decontamination Officer (DO) at incidents which involve a 

potential decontamination problem. This function should be assigned to an appropriately trained member. 

The DO is responsible for determining the most appropriate decontamination procedures and managing the 

decontamination process. The initial assessment of decontamination requirements must be based upon the 

specified needs of the situation. This must take into account the specific materials involved, the degree and 

type of exposure and the most appropriate methods. The assessment will require research by those in 

command, and may involve consultation with other agencies and toxicology resources. 

The purpose of the decontamination procedure is to assure that any potentially harmful or dangerous 

residues, on person or equipment are confined within the hot zone. Decontamination is intended to prevent 

the spread of contaminants beyond the defined area. The decontamination corridor should be established 

beginning at the edge of the hot zone and ending at the edge of the cold zone and being the ONLY entry 

and exit to or from the hot zone. 

When the need for a decontamination corridor is indicated it will be established by the Hazmat Sector and 

under their responsibility. 

The DO must confirm that all personnel and equipment leaving the hot zone have received appropriate 

attention. Three (3) courses of action are available: 

1. Confirm NON-CONTAMINATED using instruments or due to nature of the situation. 

2. DECONTAMINATED as appropriate to the situation and releases. 

3. RETAIN and package for removal from the site for disposal or decontamination at a different location. 

During the decontamination procedure, all personnel working in the decontamination corridor must be 

adequately protected form contamination. The DO will identify and require the appropriate protective 

equipment. These individuals and their equipment may also require decontamination after use. 





Any runoff or residue from decontamination procedures must be contained within the decontamination 

corridor and retained for disposal. Contamination runoff must not be allowed to spread or escape. Diking 

and/or absorption may be necessary to accomplish this task. 

In all cases the primary objective must be to avoid contaminating anyone or anything beyond the hot zone. 

Personnel and/or equipment shall not be permitted to leave the hot zone without approval of the DO. 

Cold Zone 

The cold zone is all areas of the scene where there exists NO possible exposure to the hazards of the 

material itself. Only personnel essential to the operation of the incident will be in this immediate area. 

Staging may be included in this zone if the incident is small enough to allow. The limits of this zone will be 

enforced by law enforcement based on distances and directions established in consultation with Command. 

Command shall have the final authority to establish the zones in cases where there may be difference of 

opinion. Areas to be evacuated or sheltered in-place, will depend on the nature and amount of the material 

and type of risk it presents to unprotected personnel or civilians (toxic, explosive, etc.). In some cases, it 

may be necessary to completely evacuate a radius around a site for a certain distance (i.e. potential 

explosion or toxic vapors). 

In all cases, the responsibility for safety of all potentially endangered citizens rests with Command. 

Contaminated Victims 

Victims in need of medical treatment should be removed from the source of contamination as quickly as 

possible if this can be accomplished with the available personnel and PPE available. These victims should 

be “quarantined” at the edge of the hot zone and the decon corridor. These victims must not be allowed to 

contaminate other areas or persons. It may be necessary to perform a “field-expedient” decon (quick, 

efficient decon of areas necessary to provide life-saving treatment) and transport. 

If it is necessary to transport partially contaminated victims to medical facilities, the receiving hospital shall 

be notified in advance of the nature of the contamination in order to make necessary preparations. The 

ambulance and its personnel should be protected as best possible to minimize their cross contamination and 

then be decontaminated before being put back into service. 

When personnel or victims are decontaminated at the decon corridor, they may be released to the cold zone. 

The DO will determine when it is appropriate to release custody of protective clothing, personal effects and 

equipment. 

Recall of Off Duty Personnel 

In the event of a hazardous material incident that will require Fire Department personnel to stand-by or be 

engaged in fire suppression activities that may require further assistance and/or may require an extended 

time period before the incident is terminated, off duty personnel will be recalled to man the department 

reserve apparatus or respond to the scene as appropriate. 



Guidelines 



The following guidelines are to help arriving First Response units establish and maintain control of a 

hazardous material incident: 

1. The first responding unit present at the scene of an incident involving a hazardous material will: 

2. Establish the site-specific incident command system. 

3. Serve as IC (until relieved by the senior emergency response official per the ICS). 

4. Notify Communications of the appropriate Level of Response. 

The IC shall insure the following: 

a. Rescue any victims if personnel safety can be provided. 

b. Take immediate steps to identify the hazardous material and report this to 

Communications. 

c. Determine the Level of Response per criteria. 

d. Determine which public protective action will prevail. 

e. Establish the hazard areas. 

f. Establish staging areas upwind at a safe distance. 

g. Designate and evacuation area if necessary. 

h. Coordinate all emergency and support activities. 

i. With Command input, determine the strategic goals for the incident. 

j. Ensure that all personnel on the scene are informed of the hazard zones. 

k. Determine when the zone is safe for re-entry and inform the Emergency Public 

Information Officers who will obtain media assistance to inform the public. 

Incident Level of Response Criteria 

Level I 

(All requirements must be met to qualify) 

Fixed Site 

A hazardous material incident has occurred, however, no outside assistance is required and no evacuation 

outside the incident scene has occurred. 





Transportation 

A transport vehicle has been involved in an incident: 

1. The transport vehicle has not overturned. 

2. Product transfer is not necessary before the involved vehicle can be moved. 

3. There has been no fire or explosion. 

4. There has been no leak/spill of fuel or hazardous material (s) more than the EPA Reportable 

Quantity (RQ). 

Level II 

(One requirement must be met to qualify) 

Fixed Site 

A hazardous material (s) incident has occurred and: 

1. Outside assistance is required from federal, state or local agencies or a commercial hazardous 

waste disposal or removal company. 

2. Evacuation on in-place sheltering outside the incident has been or will be necessary. 


A transport vehicle has been involved in an incident: 

1. A vehicle transporting hazardous material (s) has overturned. 

2. Product transfer to another vehicle is necessary before the involved vehicle can be moved. 

3. There has been a fire or explosion involving the vehicle. 

4. The vehicle has not overturned; however, a leak/spill has occurred that is more than the EPA RQ. 

Level III 

Fixed Site 

A hazardous material (s) incident has occurred and the entire facility has been evacuated or in-place 

sheltering has occurred. 


A transport vehicle in an incident: (Either one or two has occurred with three) 

1. A fire or explosion has occurred involving the vehicle. 

2. A leak/spill has occurred that is more than the EPA RQ. 

3. Site evacuation or in-place sheltering has occurred or is necessary. 





Level IV 

Fixed Site 

A hazardous material (s) incident has occurred and requires community evacuation or in-place sheltering. 

Resources to handle the size of the incident or material (s) will exceed all local resources. 


A transport vehicle has been involved in an incident: (Any combination of the following) 

1. A fire or explosion has occurred involving the vehicle. 

2. A leak/spill has occurred that is more that the EPA RQ. 

3. Community evacuation has occurred or is necessary. 

4. Resources to handle the size of the incident or material (s) will exceed all local resources. 

Decision-Making Process 

The following decision-making model is taken from the National Fire Academy’s Initial Response to 

Hazardous Materials Incidents course. The process here is logical and easy to follow and is the one that the 

majority of members have been trained with. 

1. Gather Information 

This is the first step in any Hazmat incident. The information gathered here will be the basis for the entire 

incident. Due to the importance of this information, each piece will have to be assessed for importance and 

relevance and then prioritized for later use. 

2. Estimate Course and Harm 

Based on the information gathered decisions must be made on the current and probable course of the 

incident and the possible harm to all exposures involved. The worst case scenario should also be considered 

and prepared for but not to the extent that we use assets and resources that can be used to avoid this 

scenario. 

3. Develop Strategic Goals 

The strategic goals are broad, overall outcomes of how we want the incident to develop. As in all planning 

processes we want to develop more that one strategic goal and plan. 

4. Assess the Strategic Goals 

Are the goals presented possible given the elements of safety, personnel, equipment, weather, etc. Decide 

on which one (s) will be the most effective and safe and then proceed. 





5. Plan the Response 

Deal with the specific tactical objectives needed to reach the strategic goals. What resources will be 

needed Who will carry out these objectives What part will each division and sector of ICS need to carry 

out 

6. Execute the Response 

Provide the sectors with the tactical methods that will meet the tactical objectives and the resources needed 

to execute the response. A full briefing of personnel will be needed to ensure that all personnel are working 

toward the same goal. 

7. Review 

Plan and then conduct a debriefing/critique within 48 hours, if possible, for all members to attend. Each 

sector will need a spokesperson to provide input to avoid confusion. Follow up on all comments and make 

necessary corrections to response and Sop’s if necessary. 

Personal Protective Equipment 

Thermal Protective Equipment 

Thermal protective equipment is that which will protect the wearer from either extreme heat or cold. 

Proximity suits are designed for close proximity, short duration to temperatures as high as 2000 degrees F. 

Fire entry suits are designed for entry into total flame environments with temperatures as high as 2000 

degrees F. 

Overprotection garments are designed to be used over chemical protective garments to allow for some 

protection from thermal environments. 

Structural firefighting gear will offer limited protection to thermal environments. 

Chemical Protective Equipment 





Level A 

To be selected when the greatest level of skin, respiratory, and eye protection are required. The following 

constitute Level A equipment; it may be used as appropriate: 

1. Positive pressure, full face-piece SCBA, or positive pressure supplied air respirator with escape 

SCBA, approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). 

2. Totally encapsulating chemical-protective suit. 

3. Coveralls 

4. Long underwear 

5. Gloves, outer, chemical resistant 

6. Gloves, inner, chemical resistant 

7. Boots, chemical-resistant, steel toe and shank 

8. Hard hat (under suit) 

9. Disposable protective suit, gloves and boots (depending on suit construction, may be worn over 

totally encapsulating suit). 

Level A protection should be used when: 

1. The hazardous substance has been identified and requires the highest level of protection for skin, 

eyes, and the respiratory system based on either the measured (or potential for) high concentration 

of atmospheric vapors, gases, or particulates; or the site operations and work functions involve a 

high potential for splash, immersion, or exposure to unexpected vapors, gases, or particulates of 

materials that are harmful to skin or capable of being absorbed through the skin. 

2. Substances with a high degree of hazard to the skin are known or suspected to be present, and skin 

contact is possible. 

3. Operations are being conducted in confined, poorly ventilated areas, and the absence of conditions 

requiring Level A have not yet been determined. 





Level B 

The highest level of respiratory protection is necessary but a lesser level of skin protection is needed. The 

following constitute Level B equipment; it may be used as appropriate: 

1. Positive pressure, full-facepiece SCBA, or positive pressure supplied air respirator with escape 

SCBA (NIOSH approved). 

2. Hooded chemical-resistant clothing (overalls and long-sleeved jacket; coveralls; one or two-piece 

chemical-splash suit; disposable chemical-resistant overalls). 

3. Coveralls 

4. Gloves, outer, chemical-resistant 

5. Gloves, inner, chemical-resistant 

6. Boots, outer, chemical-resistant, steel toe and shank 

7. Boot-covers, outer, chemical-resistant (disposable) 

8. Hard hat 

9. Face shield 

Level B protection should be used when: 

1. The type and atmospheric concentration of substances have been identified and require a high 

level of respiratory protection, but less skin protection. 

2. The atmosphere contains less that 19.5% oxygen. 

3. The presence of incompletely identified vapors or gases is indicated by a direct-reading organic 

vapor detection instrument, but vapors and gases are not suspected of containing high levels of 

chemicals harmful to skin or capable of being absorbed through the skin. 

Note: This involves atmospheres with IDLH concentrations of specific substances that present severe 

inhalation hazards and that do not represent a severe skin hazard; or that do not meet the criteria for use of 

air-purifying respirators. 





Level C 

The concentration (s) and type (s) of airborne substance (s) is known and the criteria for using air purifying 

respirators are met. The following constitute Level C equipment; it may be used as appropriate: 

1. Full-faced or half-mask, air purifying respirators (NIOSH approved). 

2. Hooded chemical-resistant clothing (overalls; two-piece chemical-splash suit; disposable 

chemical-resistant overalls). 

3. Coveralls 

4. Gloves, outer, chemical-resistant 

5. Gloves, inner, chemical-resistant 

6. Boots, outer, chemical-resistant steel toe and shank 

7. Boot-covers, outer, chemical-resistant (disposable) 

8. Hard hat 

9. Escape mask 


Level C protection should be used when: 

1. The atmospheric contaminants, liquid splashes, or other direct contact will not adversely affect or 

be absorbed through any exposed skin. 

2. The types of air contaminants have been identified, concentrations measured and an air-purifying 

respirator is available that can remove the contaminants. 

3. All criteria for the use of air-purifying respirators are met. 





Level D 

A work uniform affording minimal protection used for nuisance contamination only. The following 

constitute Level D equipment; it may be used as appropriate: 

1. Coveralls 

2. Gloves 

3. Boots/shoes, chemical-resistant, steel toe and shank 

4. Boots, outer, chemical-resistant (disposable) 

5. Safety glasses or chemical splash goggles 

6. Hard hat 

7. Escape mask 


Level D protection should be used when: 

1. The atmosphere contains no known hazard. 

2. Work functions preclude splashes, immersion, or the potential for unexpected inhalation of or 

contact with hazardous levels of any chemicals. 

Materials Brought to a Cleveland Fire Department Station 

If a material, that is or has the potential of being hazardous, is brought to a Cleveland Fire Department 

Station, the material should be kept in the person’s vehicle until steps can be taken to determine the level of 

risk. At no time, should the person/persons be allowed to leave the premises until back ground information, 

history of the hazard, location the hazard was found, etc. has been taken and passed to the shift commander. 

This information will help the commander determine if a hazardous material response should be started. 

If you come in contact with the person/persons transporting the alleged hazardous material, you should be 

treated as contaminated until further knowledge of the hazard can be attained. 





Responses to Vehicle Rescue/Extrication Incidents 

Purpose 

To promote safe, effective and efficient operations for all responses to motor vehicle accidents (MVA’s). 

Objective 

To establish operational guidelines so that Fire Department personnel respond to victims of MVA’s and 

treat them in a safe, efficient and timely manner in accordance with generally accepted standards. 

Scope 



Vehicle accidents potentially encompass a wide variety of dangerous situations including but not limited to 

fires, entrapment, hazardous materials, electrical hazards and unexpected airbag deployment. It shall be the 

goal of the Fire Department to operate as necessary so that injured or trapped occupants maybe removed 

and receive definitive medical intervention at an appropriate medical facility within their “golden hour of 

survival.” 

The Incident Commander is responsible for enforcing this policy 

Command is responsible for removing Fire Department Units from the scene as soon as all objectives are 

met. 

Policy 

A. It shall be the policy of the Cleveland Fire Department to respond a minimum of two (2) Engine 

Companies, (with at least one (1) being a Rescue Pumper) and one (1) Command Unit to all 

reported vehicle accidents with injuries within the jurisdictional boundaries of the Cleveland Fire 

Department.. 

B. All Cleveland Fire Department personnel shall adhere to the following guidelines. 

Procedure 

A. An Engine Company from the nearest district and an Engine Company from the next closest 

district shall respond to all MVA’s with injuries. At least one (1) responding Engine shall be a 

designated Rescue Pumper. 





B. Upon arrival, the Incident Commander shall give an initial report, do a scene size-up, and 

determine if additional resources (fire department equipment, police, EMS or other) are needed. 

The Incident Commander shall give an initial patient assessment via the 911 Communications 

Center to BCEMS. Under no circumstances should the Incident Commander or any other Fire 

Department personnel cancel BCEMS if their response has been initiated. The Incident 

Commander shall determine the best placement for the responding vehicles to ensure the 

protection and safety of all personnel operating on the scene. If utility hazards are present, the 

appropriate utility company shall be notified and their assistance requested. 

C. Upon receipt of additional information from an on-scene EMS unit, i.e. non-injury, advising to 

cancel, etc., the closest Engine Company may continue response (non-emergency) to assure scene 

safety and acquire information for the Incident Report. The Company Officer may use discretion 

in the mode of response. 

D. In the interest of scene safety, the Fire Department Engine shall not park within 75 feet of any 

accident location if possible. Apparatus should be positioned to increase visibility, protect the 

scene from on-coming traffic, yet allowing access for other emergency vehicles. It is the 

responsibility of the first arriving unit(s) to determine any potential fire and life-safety hazards 

present on the scene. Traffic control shall be requested and should be provided by local law 

enforcement personnel. 

E. If a reliable source, (on-scene CPD or BCEMS unit) determines that there are multiple vehicles 

involved, multiple victims injured or trapped the Commander/Shift OIC may request additional 

units or resources to respond. 

F. If a response is upgraded or downgraded or canceled it shall be the duty of the responding Incident 

Commander to determine the authority or the person requesting the change. Under no 

circumstances shall an incident be cancelled by anyone other than Cleveland Fire Department or 

BCEMS employees. 

G. Once on the scene the Incident Commander shall appoint or act as the scene Safety Officer. The 

scene SO is responsible for the safety of all individuals working in and around the emergency 

scene. The scene SO shall supervise the operations, which includes awareness of approaching 

vehicles. It is critical that all precautions are taken to warn motorists of personnel working in the 

area. The deployment and placement of safety cones and the proper vehicle placement to protect 

the responders on the scene are some of the critical functions that shall be addressed. It is 

imperative that the Incident Commander or the scene SO work closely with a nay responding law 

enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of all personnel on the scene. 

H. It shall be the policy of the Fire Department to deploy a minimum of one (1) 1 ¾ inch hand-line 

for fire or vapor suppression. 

I. Fire Department personnel are responsible for initial stabilization of the damaged vehicle(s) by 

chocking wheels, shutting down electrical systems by disconnecting or double cutting battery 

cables and controlling other hazards that may be present initially or may present themselves during 

the incident. 

J. Fire Department personnel should, whenever possible, provide initial patient access. Fire 

Department personnel may render and/or assist EMS, up to the level of their training, in providing 

emergency medical care. This aid will continue until relieved by higher trained personnel or the 

patient is packaged and loaded. The personnel on the scene having the highest level of medical 

license/certification shall have responsibility for all medical decisions. 





K. Universal precautions will be used if Fire Department personnel are involved in handling patients. 

The following guidelines shall be used. 

1. Gloves and eye protection shall be worn with all patients. 

2. When patient contact is made the proper report shall be made as soon as reasonably 

possible. 

3. All infectious materials on any scene will be handled and properly disposed of by 

BCEMS. 

4. Fire Department uniforms or protective clothing which cannot be decontaminated shall 

be reported to the Battalion Commander. 

L. The Cleveland Fire Department will secure Landing Zones for Medical Aircraft when requested to 

do so. After completing a patient assessment it shall be the responsibility of the Medic in Charge 

of patient care to determine the need for air medical transport. Under no circumstances should an 

air medical unit be automatically launched to the scene of an accident. 

M. Insuring scene safety at MVA’s is a primary objective of the Fire Department. This may include 

but is not limited to: 

1. Checking for and controlling gasoline, diesel fuel, and fluid leaks. 

2. Checking for and/or controlling hazardous materials leaks and spills. 

3. Protection of all emergency personnel operating on the scene. 

4. Protection of those involved and/or bystanders. 

5. Request assistance as needed. 

N. The Fire Department should operate in a “Unified Command” mode with the BCEMS. 

O. Extrication and specialized rescues will be conducted by Fire Department personnel trained to do 

so. Additional resources from other agencies may be required to assist in the rescue/extrication. 

Specialized procedures should only be performed by personnel with the skills and trained in the 

necessary techniques. 

P. All personnel shall wear full protective clothing at the scene of an MVA. 

Q. The Fire Department Safety Officer may be summoned to MVA’s if Command deems it 

necessary. 

R. The Incident Commander on the scene shall gather the information necessary to complete the 

required report(s). Names, addresses, vehicle descriptions, and a license number are just a few of 

the items that may be necessary. 





Responses to Emergency Medical Incidents 

Purpose 

To promote safe, effective and efficient operations for all calls for Emergency Medical Service. 

Objective 

To establish operational guidelines so that Fire Department personnel responding to calls for Emergency 

Medical Service do so in a safe, efficient, and timely manner in accordance with generally accepted 

standards. 

Scope 



Emergency Medical Services encompass a wide variety of dangerous situations including but not limited to 

blood borne pathogens and infectious diseases. It shall be the goal of the Fire Department to operate as 

necessary so that all calls for Emergency Medical Service are mitigated in a safe and timely manner. 

Policy 

A. It shall be the policy of the Cleveland Fire Department to respond a minimum of one (1) Engine 

Company within the city limits of the City of Cleveland. 

B. All Cleveland Fire Department personnel shall adhere to the following guidelines. 

Procedure 

A. An Engine Company from the nearest district shall respond to all Priority One (1) Emergency 

Medical incidents. Priority one calls shall be determined by the Fire Chief and the Emergency 

Medical Director. 

B. If a CFD unit arrives first to an incident, the Company Officer shall give an initial report, do a 

scene size-up, and determine if additional resources (fire department equipment, Police, EMS or 

other) are needed. The Company Officer shall give an initial patient assessment via the 911 

Communications Center to BCEMS. Under no circumstances should the Company Officer or any 

other Fire Department personnel cancel BCEMS if their response has been initiated. 

C. If a CFD unit arrives after BCEMS to an incident, the Company Officer shall make face to face 

verbal contact with the EMS supervisor or scene supervisor to be assigned a task and/or be 

released from the scene. All Fire Department personnel shall, if asked, render medical care up to 

their level of training. They may also assist BCEMS with a patient care by riding to the hospital in 

the BCEMS unit. At no time shall Cleveland Fire Department personnel drive a BCEMS 

apparatus. The Fire Department Engine Company shall not return to service until all of their 

personnel have been replaced on the engine. 

D. If a response is upgraded, downgraded or canceled it shall be the duty of the responding Incident 

Officer to determine the authority of the person requesting the change. Under no circumstances 

shall an incident be cancelled by anyone other than Cleveland Fire Department or BCEMS 

employees. 





E. Universal precautions shall be used if Fire Department personnel are involved in handling 

patients. The following guidelines shall be used; 

1. Hand and eye protection shall be worn at all times. 

2. If patient contact is made, the proper report shall be filed as soon as reasonably possible. 

3. All infectious materials on any scene will be handled and properly disposed of by 

BCEMS. 

4. Fire Department uniforms or protective clothing which cannot be decontaminated shall 

be reported to the Battalion Commander. 

F. The Cleveland Fire Department will secure Landing Zones for Medical Aircraft when requested to 

do so. After completing a patient assessment it shall be the responsibility of the person in charge 

of patient care to determine the need for air medical transport. Under no circumstances should an 

air medical unit be automatically launched to the scene of an incident. 

G. The Company Officer on the scene shall gather the information necessary to complete the required 

report(s). 





Biohazard Cleanup 

Purpose 

To provide a guideline for personnel to identify the proper resources needed to mitigate a situation in which 

fire department personnel are requested to clean up a spill containing bodily fluids as well as other human 

remains. 

Objective 

To keep the public and responders safe from the potential spread of communicable diseases in the event 

that there is a spill of potentially dangerous bodily fluids and other human remains. 

Scope 



It shall be the responsibility of each member to comply with these policies. It shall be the responsibility of 

each Officer to see that each member under their command complies with these policies. 

Policy 

The Cleveland Fire Department may be requested from time to time to clean up an area that has been 

contaminated by bodily fluids (particularly blood) and other human remains from trauma scenes. The 

Cleveland Fire Department shall respond to these types of incidents and determine the proper action needed 

in order to mitigate the situation. Spills shall be categorized into two different types of spills; small and 

large. Small spills shall be considered as anything fewer than 18 inches in diameter and 8 oz in volume, 

capable of being cleaned up by one person. 

Small Spills 

A small spill shall be removed in accordance with the Cleveland Fire Department’s Blood Borne Pathogen 

program. 

1. All personnel involved in the actual “hands on” portion of the clean up shall wear proper PPE 

(gloves, gown, and eye protection). Turn-out gear is not considered proper protection for 

infectious diseases. 

2. Equipment shall consist of an applicator such as a garden type sprayer, red bucket, biohazard bags 

as well as bleach. 

3. This will be a non-emergency response and equipment retrieval shall be coordinated by the Officer 

in Charge. (OIC) 

4. The universally practiced mixture of a 1 to 10 bleach to water ratio shall be used and the proper 

amounts according to the size of the garden sprayer shall be noted on the garden container. 

5. Spray the area with the provided disinfectant. 

6. Wait 20 minutes then spread oil dry to spill area. 

7. Remove oil dry and double bag contents. 

8. Re-apply bleach mixture and let dry. 

9. Any excess disinfected material can be sprayed off with a fire hose or other water source. 

10. Contact Medical examiner for disposal. 





Large Spills 

Large spills shall be determined by the Officer in Charge. The Cleveland Fire Department shall treat all 

large spills as a hazmat incident. 

1. All personnel shall wear proper PPE. 

2. Personnel shall use whatever tools necessary to contain the spill such as oil dry and fire scene tape. 

3. The OIC shall be notified and procedures for keeping the scene secure until process of clean-up 

can be determined. 





Chapter VI 

Command and Company Procedures 

Incident Command 

Purpose 

The effective functioning of Fire Department units and personnel at operating incidents requires clear 

decisive action on the part of an Incident Commander. This procedure is to be employed in establishing 

Command and operating a Command Post. It also fixes responsibility for the Command function and its 

associated duties on one individual at any time during the operations. 

The Incident Commander is responsible for the Command functions at all times. As the identity of the 

Incident Commander changes, through transfers of Command, this responsibility shifts with the title. The 

term “Command” in this procedure refers jointly to both the person and the function. 

Objective 

To provide for safe, efficient, and effective operations at each incident. 

Scope 

The Incident Command system shall be established at all incidents. 


The first Officer on the scene shall be responsible for implementation of the Incident Command system. As 

higher-ranking Officers arrive at the incident, they may choose to either take Command or may leave the 

Incident Command with the original Commander. 

Policy 

A. The Incident Command System shall be implemented by the first arriving Fire Department unit. 

Each unit shall have an Officer assigned or designated. For example; this Officer shall establish 

Command on arrival by saying, ”______(unit number)” is establishing Ocoee Street Command.” 

B. As higher ranking Officers arrive on the scene, they have the option of taking Command. When 

higher-ranking Officers choose not to take Command, they shall report to the Command post and 

serve as a resource or accept assignments given to them by the Incident Commander. 

C. Transfer of Command shall take place on a face to face basis, whenever possible, to facilitate 

communication and feedback. If face to face communication is not practical, transfer of Command 

may be done by radio. Either way, the Communications Center should be notified of the change 

of Command. 

D. Incidents are to be given a specific name to avoid confusion when multiple incidents are in 

progress. 





E. The initial Incident Commander must decide if Command operations will be conducted from a 

fixed position or must be done simultaneously with the tactical operations. If the initial tactical 

operations of the first arriving company will be able to control the incident or the personal tactical 

activity of the Officer will have significant impact on the operation, then the Command may be 

combined with the tactical operations. In all other situations, Command should be established at a 

fixed location. 

F. When Command has not been established at a fixed location, and continues to operate in the 

offensive mode, as higher ranking Command Officers arrive on the scene, they should take 

Command and establish a Command post at a fixed location. 

Incident Commander’s Responsibilities 

The following list outlines the basic responsibilities of the Incident Commander (IC) at every incident. 

A. Assesses the incident or tactical priorities. 




B. Determines the incident’s strategic goals and tactical objectives. Determines the Mode of 

Operation, Offensive Mode or Defensive Mode. 

C. Develops or approves and implements the incident action plan. 

D. Develops an Incident Command structure appropriate for the incident. 

E. Appoints sector Officers or staff positions as required. 

F. Assesses resource needs and orders, deploys, and releases needed resources. 

G. Coordinates overall emergency activities. 

H. Serves as the ultimate Incident Safety Officer, responsible for preventing firefighter injuries and/or 

death. 

I. Coordinates activities of outside agencies. 

J. Authorizes information release to the media. 

Priorities 

A. Life Safety (First priority) 

The Incident Commander must consider life safety issues for all firefighters, other emergency workers, 

occupants, and bystanders at an incident. No structure, vehicle, or any other form of property is worth 

the risk of even one life. Life safety must come before all other considerations. All fire departments have 

two basic goals, to save lives and to protect property. The Incident Commander must never forget or 

neglect this priority. 





B. Incident Stabilization (Second priority) 

The Incident Commander is responsible for determining the strategy that will minimize the impact that any 

incident may have on the surrounding area and his/her jurisdiction. 

C. Property Conservation (Third priority) 

Property conservation means achieving our goals and objectives at an incident while minimizing the 

property damage. Judicious application of water, coupled with effective ventilation and meaningful salvage 

operations, will insure that the goal of property conservation is met. At times, property conservation is 

neglected because of limited resources. However, no incident can be considered successfully managed if 

property conservation is not given proper consideration and implemented in a timely manner. 

Although the order of these priorities is crucial, it is not static. Undertaking certain life safety activities may 

also contribute to the goal of incident stabilization and/or property conservation. Clearly, however, if an 

activity will contribute to life safety but not to property conservation, it must be implemented. 

Types of Command 

A. Incident Command -- Established at all incidents by one individual having ultimate responsibility 

for the tactical priorities. 

The Incident Commander (IC) may be the same as the Single Commander. 

This Command shall be addressed by the term “Command.” In the case of simultaneous or 

overlapping incidents, each Command shall be identified by the address of the incident -- i.e., 

Keith Street Command, Ocoee Street Command. 

B. Single Command -- May be applied when there is no overlap of jurisdictional boundaries or when 

a single Incident Commander is designated by the agency with overall management responsibility 

for the incident. This Command is addressed as “Command.” 

C. Unified Command -- May be applied when the incident is within one jurisdictional boundary, but 

more than one agency shares management responsibility. Unified Command also is used when the 

incident is multi-jurisdictional in nature or when more than one individual designated by his/her 

jurisdiction or agency shares overall management responsibility. A single Incident Commander 

must be established with other agency managers reporting to Command as sector Officers. This 

Command is addressed as “Command.” 

D. Fire Ground Command (FGC) -- May be applied when multiple locations occur within one 

incident, such as during a disaster (tornado, earthquake, flood, etc.) A Fire Ground Commander is 

responsible for Command at a particular location and reports directly to the Incident Commander. 

These Commands shall be identified by their location -- i.e., Keith Street Command, Ocoee Street 

Command. 

E. Sector Officers -- May be designated at any incident to help divide the emergency into smaller and 

more manageable parts. The use of Sector Officers expands the span or control of the Incident 

Commander or the Fire Ground Commander. The Incident Commander shall establish sectors or 

areas using the standard geographic designation System that has been adopted by the department. 





When divisions or working groups are formed, they shall take the name of the general area in which they 

are working. Example -- If a group of firefighters led by an Officer is working in the rear of the building, 

they become Division C and the radio number of the Officer in charge of this sector becomes “Division C.” 

The major functions of Sector Officers include 

1. Operate in assigned geographic or functional areas. 

2. Assist in determination of requirements for operations. 

3. Manage personnel and resources within the assigned sector and span of control. 

4. Communicate conditions and progress to the Incident Commander or Fire Ground Commander. 

Sector Officers may often be self-established, without direct orders from the Incident Commander or Fire 

Ground Commander. 

Sectors 

Sectors describe a standard system of dividing Fire Ground Command into smaller Command units or 

areas. 

Complex fire situations soon exceed the capability of one Officer to effectively manage the entire 

operation. Sectors reduce the span of control of the overall Command function to more manageably sized 

units. Sectors allow Command to communicate principally with Sector Officers, rather than fire companies, 

providing an effective Command structure and fire ground organization. 

When effective sectors have been established, Command can concentrate on overall strategy and resource 

allocation. Each Sector Officer is responsible for the tactical deployment of resources at his/her disposal 

and for communicating needs and progress to Command. Command determines strategic objectives and 

assigns available resources to the sectors where they are most needed. 

Safety of firefighting personnel represents a major reason for establishing sectors. Each Sector Officer must 

maintain communication with assigned companies to control both their position and function and must be 

constantly aware of the safety of their companies. 

Command should begin to assign to Sectors based on the following factors: 

A. A situation which will eventually involve a number of companies or functions beyond the 

capability of Command to directly control. 

B. Companies are involved in complex interior operations. 

C. Companies are operating from tactical positions over which Command has little or no control. 

D. Situation is such that close control is required over operating companies (i.e., structural conditions, 

hazardous material, heavy fire load, marginal offensive situations, etc.). 





Sectors will be regulated by the following guidelines 

A. It will be the ongoing responsibility of Command to assign sectors as required for effective fire 

ground operations; this relates to both area sectors for firefighting Command and sectors 

established for specified functions. 

B. Command must advise each Sector Officer of the overall strategy and plan, in addition to the 

objective of the sector. 

C. Sectors assigned to specific operating areas will be designated by their function, or location. 

D. Sector Officer will use the sector designation in radio communications. 

Each sector will be under the Command of a Sector Officer. Sector Officers can be Chief Officers, 

Company Officers, or any other Fire Department member designated by Command. 

Sector numbering will be accomplished in the following manner: 

Outside Numbering 

C 

B 

D 

A 

Sector Officers will be responsible for and in control of all assigned functions within their sector. This 

requires each Sector Officer to: 

A. Monitor work progress. 

B. Redirect activities as necessary. 

C. Coordinate with related activities. 

D. Monitor welfare of sector personnel. 

E. Request additional resources as needed. 

F. Communicate with Command as necessary. 

G. Relocate resources within the sector. 

Front 





A sector officer must be in position to directly supervise and monitor operations. This will require the 

Sector Officer to be equipped with appropriate protective clothing and equipment for the area of operations. 

Each Sector Officer will keep Command informed of conditions in the sector through regular progress 

reports. Command must be advised immediately of significant changes, particularly those involving ability 

or inability to complete mission, hazardous conditions, accidents, collapse, etc. 

When a company is assigned from staging to an operating sector, the company will be told to what sector 

and which Sector Officer the assignment was made. The Sector Officer will be informed which particular 

companies or units have been assigned to them by Command. It is then the responsibility of the Sector 

Officer to contact the company to transmit any instructions on the specific action requested. 

The Sector Officer should be readily identifiable and maintain a visible position as much as possible. 

The primary function of Company Officers working within a sector is to direct the operations of their 

individual crews in performing assigned tasks. Company Officers will advise their sector Officer of work 

progress. If a Company Officer determines the need for assistance on assigned work tasks, such assistance 

must be requested from the Sector Officer. 

Command Staff Positions 

At large-scale or complex incidents, consideration may have to be given to the Safety, Liaison, and 

Information functions. If the Incident Commander cannot effectively handle any of these functions, they 

should be delegated. 

These functions should be staffed when their demands begin to affect the Incident Commander’s ability to 

perform his/her Command functions. 

A. Safety Officer -- The Safety Officer is responsible for monitoring and assessing hazards or unsafe 

situations and for developing measures for assuring personnel safety. The Safety Officer keeps the 

Incident Commander informed of present or potential hazards so that the Incident Commander can 

build personnel safety into the action plan. The Safety Officer can take immediate steps to correct 

any unsafe act or to remove personnel from imminent danger. 

B. Liaison Officer -- The Liaison Officer is the point of contact for assisting and coordinating outside 

agency representatives. When several agencies are involved at one incident, there is often a lack of 

communication and coordination between the agencies. The Liaison Officer’s role is to provide 

that communication and coordination in order to insure that there is no duplication of effort and 

that all available resources are used to their fullest capabilities. 

C. Information Officer (PIO) -- The Information Officer is responsible for the formulation and 

release of incident information to the media and other appropriate agencies. The Information 

Officer can satisfy the media’s need for information, while allowing the Incident Commander to 

concentrate on managing the incident without having the distraction of dealing with the media. 

D. Operations Officer -- The Operations Officer is responsible for all the tactical operations carried 

out to meet the goals and objectives established by the Incident Commander. 

E. Staging Officer -- The Staging Officer is responsible for maintaining reserve companies in a 

staged area for future commitment. The Staging Officer reports to the Incident Commander for the 

resources available or needed in staging. 





F. Logistics Officer -- The Logistics Officer is responsible for providing the facilities, services and 

supplies to support the incident. Logistics is broken down into two major areas of responsibility. 

1. Service Branch is responsible for incident communications, for providing medical aid for 

emergency personnel, and for feeding personnel at the incident. 

2. Support Branch is responsible for ordering and storing all supplies, for providing any 

facilities or shelter needed, and for ground support such as fuel or maintenance. 

G. Finance Officer -- The Finance Officer is responsible for all financial aspects of the incident. The 

Finance Officer oversees personnel costs, costs to contractors or vendors, claims due to injuries, 

and monitors the legalities with regards to finance. 

Communications Procedures 

A. Communications is an important factor in any fire ground situation. The Cleveland Fire 

Department is a member of the Tri-State Mutual Aid Association and in most cases of multiple 

alarm fires in the area there will be Mutual Aid Response, whether it be at the request of the 

Cleveland Fire Department or another Department within the area. To insure that all Departments 

in the Tri-State Mutual Aid Association will have sufficient communication abilities, we have 

adopted a Mutual Aid frequency for radio communications. This frequency is 154.280 or Channel 

four (4) for Cleveland Fire Department radios. Anytime that a Mutual Aid response is in progress, 

it will be the responsibility of the Incident Commander to insure that all communications on the 

fire ground remain on the same frequency. The Incident Commander shall notify the 

Communications Center that all units responding for Mutual Aid should use the Mutual Aid 

frequency. Communications between Command and Dispatch may also be done on Channel one 

(1) if necessary. 

B. Since there is not a set standard on 10 codes, and many departments use different ones, the 

Cleveland Fire Department has adopted the use of plain language for all radio traffic. 10 codes are 

not to be used for fire ground communications. 

C. Once the Incident Command System has been established, all radio transmissions shall be between 

“Command” and a “Sector,” or between “Command” and “Dispatch.” Individual sectors are not to 

make requests to Dispatch; all such messages are directed to the Incident Commander, who will 

handle in an appropriate manner. 

Tri-State Mutual Aid Incident Accountability 

It is the intent of this procedure to present a workable model for personnel safety by establishing incident 

accountability during multiple alarm incidents. This procedure is designed for multiple alarms but is also 

flexible enough to be used on individual department incidents. 

Definitions 

A. Accountability Tag: 

A metal tag, to be turned in to the designated Accountability Officer at an incident to ensure that personnel 

safety can be assured on emergency operations and that all personnel can quickly and accurately be 

accounted for if an emergency occurs. 



B. Master Tag: 



The tag turned in to the Staging or Accountability Officer when companies report to an incident. 

C. Secondary Tag: 

The tag turned over to the Sector Officer upon assignment for duties on the incident. 

Procedure 

A. Upon initial mutual aid alarm, the first due Department will establish as soon as possible an 

accountability structure to be composed of but not limited to: 

1. A Staging Area Officer 

2. The Sector Officers 

B. Mutual Aid Companies reporting to the incident will hold their Master Tags until assigned to a 

sector, and then they will deposit them with the Staging Officer. This will allow these companies 

to be redirected to other alarms in this jurisdiction if needed. 

C. Reporting company personnel will stay in the Staging Area until they are assigned to a Sector. 

D. Each person reporting to a Sector for assignment will turn over his/her Secondary accountability 

tag, if available to the Sector Officer. 

E. During fire operations, as companies are assigned to Sectors, their Master Tags will move to the 

Command post. Otherwise, both tags will stay in the Staging Area. 

F. In the event of an emergency, each person will retrieve his/her accountability tag from the Sector 

Officer. The Sector Officer will then only have the accountability tags for the person (s) in trouble. 

The Sector Officer will then report to the Incident Commander. 

G. Those companies not immediately required for post emergency functions will report to and stay 

with the Sector Officer until their assistance is no longer needed or they are released from the 

Sector to report to the Rehabilitation Sector where their Secondary Tags will be deposited again. 

H. Any additional assignment requirements of Incident Command will repeat steps three (A) through 

seven (G) above. 

I. At the conclusion of the incident, all Sector Officers should have no accountability tags in their 

possession. 

J. Any accountability tags left at the incident will require direct contact with that individual to 

confirm his/her safety. 

K. At the conclusion of the incident, each unit Officer/senior firefighter will pick up the master 

accountability tags from the Command post and make an accountability of their personnel before 

leaving the scene. If he has tags left, he will report back to the Incident Commander that he still 

has personnel on the fire ground. 





Command Options 

In cases where the initial arriving Officer is a Command Officer, his/her efforts should automatically be 

directed toward establishing a Command Post and fulfilling the listed responsibilities. 

An initial arriving Shift Commander or Company Officer must decide on an appropriate commitment for 

his company (ies). This will usually fall into one of three general modes as listed below. 

A. Nothing Showing Mode -- These situations generally require investigation by the first arriving 

engine and other companies while holding staged companies at a distance. Normally the Officer 

can go with his/her company to check, using their portable radio to continue Command. 

B. Fast Attack Mode -- Situations which require immediate action in order to stabilize the situation, 

such as individuals still inside residences, apartments, or small commercial occupancies, require 

that the Officer quickly decide how to commit his/her company (ies). Where a fast interior attack 

is critical, he can take necessary involvement in the attack without neglecting Command 

responsibilities. This mode should not last more than a few moments and will end with one of the 

following: 

1. Situation is stabilized. 

2. Ranking Officer or Chief arrives and Command is transferred. 

3. Situation is not stabilized and the Officer must remove himself to a normal Command 

position. 

C. Command Mode -- Situations that require principle command, such situations that by virtue of the 

size of the fire, the complexity/potential of the occupancy, or the possibility of extension, require 

strong direct overall Command from the outset. In such cases, the Officer will initially assume a 

Command position and maintain that position until relieved by a ranking Officer. 

Transfer of Command 

Transfer of Command to subsequently arriving Officers can provide for the most capable person to be in 

Command. Whenever possible, the transfer of Command should be face to face. Critical information about 

the emergency situation must be transferred as well, and include items such as the current attack plan, 

deployment of companies, the effectiveness of the attack, and the need for additional resources. The Fire 

Ground Commander may assign the previous Command Officer to the Command Post since this Officer is 

the most acquainted with the current fire situation. 

Once the face to face transfer has been achieved, a radio transmission to the Communication Center shall 

be made informing them of the transfer. Example: “Command One assuming Command from Command 

Two” or “Command One assuming Command.” 

Command Post 

The location from which all incident operations are directed. This location shall be transmitted through 

radio communication to inform subordinates where to report for assignments. Example: “Command Post 

will be at Keith Street and Raider Drive.” 





Span of Control 

The number of subordinates’ one supervisor can manage effectively. Guidelines for the desirable range are 

from three (3) to seven (7) persons, with the optimum being five (5) subordinates per supervisor. 

Fire Companies 

These are the basic operational units on the fire ground. The fire companies include the personnel that 

actually carry out the strategic decisions on the tactical operation level. 

Support Personnel 

These are other agencies and personnel that may assist and support emergency operations, but are not 

directly part of the fire department. Agencies such as utility companies, Red Cross, the police, and 

dispatchers are examples of support personnel. 

Comprehensive Resource Management 

Used to maximize resource use, consolidate control of large numbers of single resources, and reduce the 

communications load. 

A. Single Resources -- include individual engines, squads, ladder trucks, etc. 

B. Task Force -- a group of any type or kind of resources, with common communications and a 

leader, temporarily assembled for specific tactical missions. 

C. Strike Team -- a specified combination of the same kind and type of resources with common 

communications and a leader. 





Methods of Gathering Information 

During an emergency the Incident Commander or Fire Ground Commander has constant need for 

information on fire ground factors. The information gathered to provide the needed input into formulation 

of the action plan comes from three factors. 

A. Visual Factors -- This is what the Incident Commander can actually see from the Command Post 

and on the fire ground. 

B. Reconnaissance Factors -- These are factors that the Incident Commander gets from information 

supplied by others on the fire ground who report to him as a result of a specific mission to gather 

information. The Incident Commander must be aware that information gathered by a 

reconnaissance mission may be incomplete or inaccurate. The dangers on the fire ground may 

make the mission impossible to complete, and often those assigned to a reconnaissance 

assignment cannot guarantee accurate information. 

C. Pre-Fire Planning Factors -- Information gathered by preplanning surveys is the most professional 

and accurate in many fire situations. This vital information can be collected in a methodical 

manner before an actual emergency. This information takes a lot of the “guess work” out of 

decision making on the fire ground. 

It should be of vital concern to every member of the department since the safety of all people at a fire may 

depend on our knowledge of the building and contents involved in a fire. 

Pre-Fire Planning Factors can include items such as: 

1. Building Construction Features 

2. Life Hazard Information 

3. Occupancy 

4. Contents 

5. Exposures 

6. Availability and location of water supplies 

7. Access for equipment, apparatus, personnel, and special hazards 

8. Personnel Traps 

9. Built-in Fire Protection Features 

Fire Ground Factor Information Categories 





A. The Fire Itself 

1. Size 

2. Location 

3. Extent 

4. Percentage of area involved 

5. How long has the building been involved 

6. Stage of involvement 

7. Direction of travel 

8. Most dangerous direction of travel 

9. Avenue (s) of travel 

10. Materials involved 

11. Type of construction 

12. Contents 

13. Finish of interior 

14. Access 

15. Can firefighters operate directly on the fire 

B. The Building 

1. Size in area and height 

2. Age 

3. Interior arrangement 

4. Type of construction 

5. How resistant is the building to the effects of fire 

6. Condition of structure (faults, weaknesses) 

7. Value of building and contents 

8. Avenues of fire spread (vertical/horizontal) 

9. Openings 

10. Concealed spaces 




11. Access (Doors/windows/security) 

12. What utilities are in the building 

13. Where are the shut-offs 

14. Special hazards 

C. The Occupancy 


1. Is it one major type such as business, mercantile, public assembly, institutional, 

residential, industrial, storage, or education 

2. Current status (open/closed), (occupied/vacant) 

3. Is the building abandoned Under construction Being demolished 

4. Value 

5. Size and nature of fire load 

6. Contents 

7. Time 

8. Status of property conservation and salvage 

D. Life Hazard 

1. Nature, condition, and location of occupants 

2. Incapacity of occupants 

3. Exposure to fire and toxic products 

4. Access to victims and escape routes 

5. Commitment required for search and rescue 

6. Treatment needs 

7. Status of spectators 

8. Hazards to firefighters 

E. Building Arrangement 

1. Location and distance of external exposures 

2. Access to exposures 

3. Nature of exposure’s combustibility 





4. Most dangerous direction of spread 

5. Barriers and obstructions 

6. Capabilities and limitations of apparatus movement 

7. Nature of internal exposures 

8. Multiple buildings 

F. Special Circumstances 

1. Time of day 

2. Day of week 

3. Holiday 

4. Special event 

5. Seasonal factors 

6. Weather (wind, rain, heat, cold, and humidity) 

7. Visibility 

8. Traffic conditions 

9. Strike, riot, festivities 

G. Resources 

1. Personnel and equipment at the scene or available 

2. Mutual Aid and their response time 

3. Outside resources such as utility companies, police, and heavy equipment 

4. Condition of personnel and equipment 

5. Logistical support 

6. Breathing air 

7. Adequacy of Command and communications system 

8. Adequacy of water 

9. Location of supplemental water supplies 

10. Built-in systems, such as sprinklers and standpipes 





The factors previously listed are the elements of the situation that the Incident Commander has to link 

together into a Plan of Action. The Incident Commander must realize that his/her Plan of Action can 

influence or alter some of the factors and that this is the main objective of the Plan of Action. 

The Incident Commander must constantly review the progress of his/her entire Plan of Action to see if 

progress is being made and to make sure that the organization is doing its job. The Plan of Action has to be 

reviewed continually to insure that it is still effective. 

The Incident Commander must also realize there is a difference in the various fire ground factors based on 

whether they are fixed or variable. Some factors are fixed, such as the weather or the size of the building. 

Other factors are variable, such as the size of the fire or resources. 

The Incident Commander must focus his/her attention on the variable factors since these are the ones that 

the action plan can change to produce positive results. 

The fire ground factors illustrated above are generally considered as the input into the action plan. The 

action plan is usually based around obtaining progress toward Tactical Priorities. 

Benchmarks 

The Incident Commander must know when to move from one tactical priority to the next. The Incident 

Commander must constantly monitor fire ground factors and compare these to progress toward the 

completion of the tactical objectives. To assist in recognition of completion of a tactical priority, the 

Incident Command System includes a set of Benchmarks, or signals, that the objectives of a tactical priority 

have been achieved. Operating units and Sector Officers must keep the Incident Commander informed, on a 

continuous basis of progress toward the benchmarks. 

The benchmark signals are as follows 

ALL CLEAR -- This is the signal that informs the Incident Commander that the primary search has been 

completed and that the rescue tactical priority has been completed. Until the (All Clear) is received by the 

Incident Commander, all operations must support rescue operations. 

UNDER CONTROL -- This is the signal that the forward progress of the fire has been stopped. The fire is 

not necessarily out, but it is not expected to involve any additional property, and it can be controlled and 

extinguished by the forces on the scene. 

LOSS STOPPED -- Indicates that loss to the property caused by fire control efforts has been stopped. There 

will be more damage done by indirect causes such as water damage or overhaul activities. 

The Incident Commander must coordinate units operating on the fire ground, in order to complete 

operations aimed at the completion of the tactical priorities, in accordance with size-up and preplanning 

information. It is also the responsibility of the Incident Commander to make sure operations in support of 

any of the tactical priorities are being performed with the safety of personnel as an important part of those 

operations. 





Approaches to Tactical Priorities 

The Incident Commander must realize that each of the tactical priorities demands a different approach by 

the Incident Commander and operating units. 

During a rescue, the Incident Commander must assign companies to locate and remove all threatened 

occupants. If necessary, property must be written off to reach this goal. 

During fire control efforts, the Incident Commander finds the fire, cuts it off, and puts it out. Some damage 

to property may result from firefighting operations. 

Property conservation activities move with more caution. Time may be used in a more calculated manner. 

The Incident Commander must realize that there will be a trade off between the damage being done by the 

fire and the damage done by the fire control efforts. As a general rule of thumb, the damage done by 

firefighting forces must be done in proportion to the damage being done by the fire. It is unjustifiable to do 

$20,000 worth of damage looking for an overheated ballast on a smoke investigation. On the other hand, if 

the fire is destroying property, do not be afraid to beat up the building to make an aggressive effort to get 

ahead of the fire and cut it off. It is true that the Incident Commander who worries about beating in a door 

can often be found a few hours later trying to confine the fire to the block of origin. 

Overlapping Priorities 

The intelligent Incident Commander must realize that in some cases tactical priorities must be carried out 

simultaneously, such as fire control and rescue operations. The Incident Commander must be able to 

allocate units to carry out these multiple priorities simultaneously, while remembering that operations are in 

the Rescue Mode until the “All Clear” is given. The effective Incident Commander realizes that tactical 

priorities are separate but are always interrelated at an emergency. 

The Incident Commander must be able to understand fire behavior and must develop the discipline to mix 

functions while keeping them in their proper priority order. 

Review, Evaluate, and Revise Attack Plans as Required 

Once a plan is in operation, the Incident Commander must receive regular feedback from the operating 

sectors and must constantly review the progress of the attack. This part of the system eliminates the need 

for the Incident Commander to be mobile and allows him to concentrate on overall Command. Evaluation 

and revision of the attack plan become a major safety item for the Incident Commander and the operating 

units. 

Request and Assign Additional Units as Required 

The Incident Commander operates as a resource manager, developing objectives and allocating resources. 

These additional resources are the basic mechanisms to out flank and overpower the fire. 

The Incident Commander must call for additional resources to stay ahead of the fire, and he must build a 

corresponding organization as additional resources are called. The Incident Commander must call 

additional resources when: 

A. An actual fire situation or potential fire situation exists, and the potential life hazard exceeds the 

rescue capabilities of initial alarm companies. 





B. The number, location, and condition of actual victims exceed the rescue, removal, and treatment 

capabilities of the initial alarm companies. 

C. An actual fire situation or potential fire situation exists, and the need to protect property exceeds 

the capabilities of initial alarm companies. 

D. All companies have been committed, and the fire is not controlled. 

E. Fire conditions become more severe, or the situation deteriorates significantly. 

F. Forces are depleted due to exhaustion or injury, or are trapped or missing. 

G. There are insufficient resources on the fire ground, such as personnel, apparatus, water, equipment 

or Command personnel. 

H. There is evidence of significant fire but companies are unable to determine its location and extent. 

I. The commitment of companies is not effective. 

J. Early in the fire there are salvage requirements which exceed the capability of units on the scene. 

K. The situation becomes so widespread or complex that the Incident Commander can no longer 

effectively cope with it without a larger Command structure. 

L. The Incident Commander instinctively feels the need to summon additional resources. 

Return Companies to Service and Terminate Command 

The Incident Commander must return companies to service as soon as practical. However, the Incident 

Commander must not release too many companies too soon in order to make sure that the fire is out. 

Command Notes 

A successful Fire Ground Commander is aggressive, pragmatic, confident, accepts responsibility, and is 

willing to take charge. Command must see the fire as the enemy and must be pessimistic about the fire, but 

not distracted by the fire that he can see. The Incident Commander must be good at managing stress in the 

middle of confusion. Psychological endurance is important and safety for Fire Department personnel must 

be the first priority. 

The ability to control emotions is a key attribute of a disciplined Commander. The Incident Commander 

must have confidence in the system and in the personnel, who are trained and prepared to perform 

appropriately under critical conditions. An effective Incident Commander should recognize and understand 

the limitations of firefighters and equipment. 

The Incident Commander works within a system to achieve results and must correct ineffective operations 

in order to produce positive results. Substandard performance should be reviewed in a non-emergency 

setting and not during a fire situation. Post-fire reviews and critiques are used as learning tools, and not to 

assign fault for mistakes. 





The Incident Commander compliments and rewards superior performance, accepting as well as giving 

constructive criticism. Any size fire will be managed more effectively with a well-organized system in 

place for the Incident Commander to use. 





Safety Officer 

Purpose 

The purpose of this policy is to establish a Safety Officer for the personnel of the Cleveland Fire 


Objective 

To establish a safe working environment for Cleveland Fire Department personnel on the fire ground, 

training facilities, and at the station. 

Scope 

This policy shall apply to all Cleveland Fire Department personnel. 

Fire Station Safety Officer 

A. The City Safety Committee member shall be responsible for Safety issues at all Fire Stations and 

the Training facilities. 

B. Unsafe conditions or acts shall be reported to the City Safety Committee member immediately. 

Fire Ground Safety Officer 

The recognition of situations which present inordinate hazards to fire ground personnel and the proper 

response to safeguard personnel from those hazards is of critical importance to all Fire Department 

operations. 

A. Command has the responsibility to recognize situations involving a high risk to personnel and to 

initiate appropriate safety measures. 

B. Command shall establish a Safety Officer at all incidents involving an inordinate danger to 

personnel. Command shall consider establishing a Safety Officer on any situation where it may be 

advantageous to the overall safety of operations. 

C. On small incidents, where possible, the Incident Commander will also assume the role of Safety 

Officer. 

D. A Safety Officer shall be established automatically at multiple alarm incidents. The Training 

Captain will assume this role when possible. If the Training Captain is not available it will be the 

Incident Commander’s responsibility to assign someone to this position. 

E. The establishment of a Safety Officer in no way diminishes the responsibility of all Officers for 

the safety of their crews. 





Radio Procedures 

Purpose 

To provide the Cleveland Fire Department with a standard way of communicating through the use of 

radios. 

Objective 

To establish a policy that allows clear, concise, accurate, and effective use of the radio system. 

Scope 

This policy shall apply to all communications conducted on the Fire Department frequencies by any 

personnel. 


All Officers shall be responsible for the enforcement of this policy on the personnel within their command. 

Policy 

All personnel shall adhere to the following guidelines and policy when communicating on Cleveland Fire 

Department radio frequencies. 

General Procedures 

All radio operators shall remain calm and refrain from uncivil, unkind, angry, ironical, or derogatory 

remarks--particularly during the more trying and exasperating conditions of heavy radio traffic. If subjected 

to such treatment by others, the operator should avoid replying and proceed to handle the business at hand. 

If any corrective or disciplinary action is necessary, the operator shall report improper behavior to a 

superior officer. The event should be documented and all records shall be kept in an orderly manner and in 

such detail that the required data is readily available. 

Purpose and Control 

All communications, regardless of their nature, shall be restricted to the minimum practical transmission 

time. The purpose of a public safety communication system is to rapidly and accurately handle official 

dispatches and information between mobile units and their stations, between stations, and to and from other 

departments within an area. 

Rules of Message Handling 

The rules for message handling outlined in this manual ordinarily shall be followed. However, when this is 

impossible, the delivery of information is more important than the method. The radio system normally 

operates as a free network, with each station transmitting routine traffic as necessary. However, operators at 

all stations shall exercise normal care not to break up transmissions in progress between other area stations 

and shall stand by courteously and promptly when so requested. 





Distress and Emergency 

Although the Communications Center has a signal to indicate emergency traffic, the international distress 

signal is “May Day” and must be remembered by all operators. 

Because it is impossible to list all situations in which an emergency signal should or should not be used, the 

person in the situation must make the decision. Misuse of these signals destroys their effectiveness. 

Reading Messages 

Transmit slowly but do not drag it out. When giving names of persons or places that may be difficult to 

understand, pronounce and then spell them, using the phonetic alphabet. 

Example: The name is Barry: 

B--Boy A--Adam R--Robert R--Robert Y--Young 

Military Phonetic Alphabet 

A Adam B Boy 

C Charles D David 

E Edward F Frank 

G George H Henry 

I Ida J John 

K King L Lincoln 

M Mary N Nora 

O Ocean P Paul 

Q Queen R Robert 

S Sam T Tom 

U Unicorn V Victor 

W William X X-ray 

Y Young Z Zebra 



Military Time Conversion 



12:01 midnight to 12:59 a.m.............................0001-0059 

1:00 a.m. to 1:59 a.m. ............................0100-0159 

2:00 a.m. to 2:59 a.m. ............................0200-0259 

3:00 a.m. to 3:59 a.m. ............................0300-0359 

4:00 a.m. to 4:59 a.m. ............................0400-0459 

5:00 a.m. to 5:59 a.m. ............................0500-0559 

6:00 a.m. to 6:59 a.m. ............................0600-0659 

7:00 a.m. to 7:59 a.m. ............................0700-0759 

8:00 a.m. to 8:59 a.m. ............................0800-0859 

9:00 a.m. to 9:59 a.m. ............................0900-0959 

10:00 a.m. to 10:59 a.m. ...........................1000-1059 

11:00 a.m. to 11:59 a.m. ...........................1100-1159 

12:00 noon to 12:59 p.m. ...........................1200-1259 

1:00 p.m. to 1:59 p.m. ............................1300-1359 

2:00 p.m. to 2:59 p.m. ............................1400-1459 

3:00 p.m. to 3:59 p.m. ............................1500-1559 

4:00 p.m. to 4:59 p.m. ............................1600-1659 

5:00 p.m. to 5:59 p.m. ............................1700-1759 

6:00 p.m. to 6:59 p.m. ............................1800-1859 

7:00 p.m. to 7:59 p.m. ............................1900-1959 

8:00 p.m. to 8:59 p.m. ............................2000-2059 

9:00 p.m. to 9:59 p.m. ............................2100-2159 

10:00 p.m. to 10:59 p.m. ...........................2200-2259 

11:00 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. ...........................2300-2359 

12:00 midnight .............................2400 




Federal Communications Commission Laws 

It Is Unlawful To: 


1. Transmit superfluous signals, messages, or communications. 

2. Use profane, indecent, or obscene language. 

3. Willfully damage or permit radio apparatus to be damaged. 

4. Play music through a transmitter. 

5. Cause unlawful or malicious interference with another radio communication. 

6. Intercept and use or publish the contents of any radio message without the express 

permission of the proper authorities in your department. 

7. Make unnecessary or unidentified transmission. 

8. Transmit without first making sure the intended transmission will not cause harmful 

interference. 

9. Make any adjustments, repairs, or alterations to your radio transmitter. It is required by 

law that only a professional radio technician, holding a second class license or higher, 

may make adjustments and repairs. 

10. Deny access to your radio equipment if a properly identified representative of the FCC 

asks to inspect it. 

11. Transmit a call signal, letter, or numeral not assigned to your station or car. 

Radio Procedures 

A. Communications is an important factor in any fire ground situation. The Cleveland Fire 

Department is a member of the Tri-State Mutual Aid Association and in most cases of multiple 

alarm fires in the area there will be Mutual Aid Response, whether it be at the request of the 

Cleveland Fire Department or another Department within the area. To insure that all Departments 

in the Tri-State Mutual Aid Association will have sufficient communication abilities, we have 

adopted a Mutual Aid frequency for radio communications. This frequency is 154.280 or Channel 

four (4) in Cleveland Fire Department radios. Anytime that a Mutual Aid response is in progress, 

it will be the responsibility of the Incident Commander to insure that all responding resources use 

this channel for radio communications. 

The Incident Commander shall notify the Communications Center that he/she will be monitoring 

to the Mutual Aid channel. Communications between Command and Dispatch may also be done 

on Channel one (1). 





B. Since there is not a set standard on 10 codes, and many departments use different ones, the 

Cleveland Fire Department has adopted the use of plain language for all radio traffic. 10 codes are 

not to be used for fire ground communications. The unit number must precede the above 

terminology. Example: Engine 1 on scene at 2540 Keith Street. 

C. Once the Incident Command System has been established, all radio transmissions shall be between 

"Command” and a “Sector”, or between “Command” and “Dispatch”. Individual sectors are not to 

make requests to Dispatch; all such messages are directed to the Incident Commander, who will 

handle in an appropriate manner. 

D. All radio traffic shall be clear, brief, and accurate. 

E. The use of first names or nicknames is prohibited. 

F. When calling an individual, use their radio number if known. If their radio number is not known, 

use their rank followed by last name. 

G. When calling a vehicle, or Company that is out of station, use the assigned vehicle call number. 

H. When calling a station, use the station number. 

The radio unit initiating the traffic shall give its unit designation first followed by the unit 

designation of the unit being called. Example: 

If HQ wants to call Engine 3 the radio traffic would be: “Headquarters to Engine 3.” When you 

are called, repeat your unit number at the beginning of the message. “Your reply would be: Engine 

3 go ahead headquarters.” 

I. No unofficial radio numbers shall be used at anytime. 

J. The first unit to arrive on the scene shall confirm their arrival to, the Communications Center and 

give a brief initial report, and establish command. Example: “Engine 3, on scene, light smoke 

visible from a first floor window, in a two story brick structure, this appears to be a single family 

dwelling, Captain __________ will be Ocoee Command.” 

K. Second due and all other arriving units shall confirm arrival with the Communications Center. 

L. When a unit is released by Command, the unit will confirm its departure with the Communications 

Center . 

Portable Radios 

One portable radio should be identified with the same number as the mobile apparatus to which it is 

assigned. Example: The portable radio used by someone on the crew of Engine 1 is identified and “Engine 

1 portable". Other portable radios assigned to that unit can be identified by the unit number of the 

individual that is carrying it. 





Radio Unit Numbers 

Fire apparatus will take the number of the station to which it is permanently assigned. As long as there is 

only one piece of each type of equipment in a station, the numbering is simple. At station 1, an Engine will 

be Engine 1, a Tanker will be Tanker 1, a Ladder will be Ladder 1, etc. If special pieces of equipment are 

housed at a station they may if practical follow the same logic, ie… Hazmat 1, Brush 1, etc. 

If more than one piece of the same type of equipment is housed at the same station, the second piece would 

have a two digit number. The first digit would be the station number and the second would be the unit 

number. So, if two engines are housed at Station 1, the first engine would be Engine 1 and the second 

would be Engine 11. If a reserve engine is housed at a fire station, it will take the station number to which it 

is assigned and will be followed by the letter “R”. When this engine is in operation, it will use the 

designation of Engine 1R. 





News/Media Information 

Purpose 

It is the policy of the Cleveland Fire Department to establish and maintain a positive working relationship 

with the news media. This directive will establish a standard operating procedure to provide the news 

media with information normally requested from the Fire Department. It will also establish an operating 

framework for Public Information that will integrate into the overall fire ground management system. 

Objective 

To establish Fire Department policy concerning release of information to the news media and the public. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all personnel involved in releasing information to the news media and the general 

public. 


The Incident Commander (IC) or their designee shall be responsible for releasing information to the news 

media and the general public. At no time should personnel capture incidents on cell phones or other media 

for the purpose of being posted on any social websites or shared with the general public. 

Policy 

A. All members shall exhibit an attitude of helpfulness and concern toward interested persons making 

inquiries into Fire Department or City activities. 

B. All members who receive inquiries as to the activities of the Fire Department or the City shall use 

discretion and good judgment when answering such inquiries, taking into consideration the 

necessity for release of such information and the needs of the Department and/or the City. 

C. On a daily basis, the Battalion Commander/Shift OIC shall provide the news media (upon request) 

with pertinent information regarding Fire Department activities. 

D. Members who receive inquiries which may seem to be controversial or of a sensitive nature 

regarding the activities of the Fire Department or the City shall refer those interested persons to 

their direct supervisor. 

E. Officers and members who have had questions directed to them shall endeavor to answer those 

questions with factual information only. If the correct answer to a question is unknown, the said 

officer or member shall endeavor to either obtain the correct answer or direct the interested party 

to someone who can provide the proper information. 

F. The Fire Chief shall be notified (through the chain of command) of controversial inquiries or 

complaints concerning Fire Department activities. 





G. The Incident Commander will be responsible for the management of public information on the fire 

ground. He may delegate this duty to another person or (if the position has been activated), the 

Public Information Officer will answer questions and issue statements to the news media 

concerning the incident. Other members at the scene who receive questions and inquiries 

concerning the incident shall direct those interested persons to either the Incident Commander or 

the Public Information Sector. 

Public Information Sector 

As soon as practical, after basic rescue and fire operations are extended, Command will establish a 

PUBLIC INFORMATION SECTOR. The effective establishment of this sector will relieve Command of 

the need to deal directly with the news media during critical command stages and will provide and structure 

the standard information the media will require to accurately report the situation. Individuals assigned to 

perform Public Information Sector functions shall be regulated by the following general guidelines: 

A. The Public Information Officer (PIO) will communicate with Command, upon their arrival on the 

fire ground, to determine the status of the Public Information Sector. The staff Public Information 

Officer will automatically establish a Public Information Sector or relieve the assigned sector 

officer. 

B. The Public Information Officer will station himself in a readily visible and accessible location 

adjacent to the Command Post to meet and provide information for media personnel. The Public 

Information Officer/Sector’s radio designation is “INFORMATION.” 

C. A designated PIO should not be afraid to talk to reporters. They will report the facts as you give 

them. Tell them everything that you can, but make sure that everything that you tell them is 

correct. Usually, during the time you are gathering information, you will have inquiries from 

reporters seeking information. Give them what you have at that point and emphasize that this 

information is tentative. If it gets to the point that questions from reporters are keeping you from 

gathering information, use these alternatives: 

1. Tell the reporters to gather in one place and that you will return shortly with more 

information. 

2. Request additional manpower from Command to utilize as aides in gathering information 

and staying with the reporters. 

3. Tell the reporters to go ahead and get pictures and film footage without interfering with 

fire ground operations while you are gathering information. Arrange to meet them shortly 

at a designated location and give them facts about the incident. 

4. If they have deadlines to meet, get a phone number(s) where they can be reached and 

phone the facts to them as soon as possible. 

5. Before releasing the names of persons injured or deceased due to fire or accident, make 

positively sure the next of kin has been notified. Notifications are usually handled by 

police and/or hospitals. Ask the Communications supervisor to check with the police 

department and/or hospital(s) to confirm that the next of kin has been notified. Do not use 

the names of deceased or injured persons on the radio until notification or next of kin has 

been confirmed. 





D. During extended emergency operations, when more than one period of information release is 

requested by the media or when the incident warrants additional releases, the Incident Commander 

or the Public Information Officer shall inform the news media when and where news/press 

conferences will be held or statements will be given. 

E. In some cases the incidents we respond to will occur during a period when the various news 

agencies are not staffed. For incidents that occur during the early morning hours or on weekends 

when news agencies are not staffed, it is important that all information be gathered at the scene 

before the information sector is terminated. This will allow the PIO to contact the news media and 

wire services when they are staffed to answer their inquiries. It is important to consider deadlines 

for newspaper and television stations. For most televised newscasts, the deadline is thirty (30) 

minutes prior to the newscast. Television news rooms should be given information prior to their 

deadlines whenever possible. 

F. The individual assigned to the Public Information Sector may be required to escort the news media 

on an orientation tour of the fire damage area following knockdown. The news media may be 

provided access to the site, but safety and the preservation of evidence must be considered. This 

must be cleared with Command before entering the area. 

G. The Public Information Officer will complete an Information Worksheet that will give the news 

media a basis for a story. Once completed, the Public Information Worksheet may then be faxed to 

the local news media by the PIO. 

Public Information Worksheet 

The following guidelines will describe the information requirements involved in completing the Public 

Information Worksheet: 

A. The news media are interested in the number of units that respond to the incident, not necessarily 

their unit designation. They are also interested in the total manpower figures. 

Example: 4 Engines + 2 Ladders + 1 Deputy Chief = 7 Units + 23 Firefighters 

B. The media will also want to know how long it took the Department to arrive on the scene and how 

long it took to control the situation. Volunteer other information if it is not asked for. 

C. Tell the media what the first unit on the scene encountered and the actions taken. Example: Engine 

3 arrived on the scene and the house was well involved. Engine 3's Officer ordered a quick attack 

with 1 ¾” inch hose lines and ordered Ladder 1 to search the fire building and rescue any trapped 

occupants and to secure the utilities. Ladder 1 removed one victim who was treated at the scene by 

Bradley County EMS. 

D. In the event of injuries, fire or civilian, list the full name, date of birth, extent of injuries, where the 

patient(s) were transported for treatment, and the name of the EMS agency providing 

transportation. In case of fatality, omit the extent of injury. Do not release any of this information 

until the next of kin has been notified. 

E. When estimating damages, use the figure of $100.00 per square foot. This figure will include 

carpeting, drapes, furniture, etc. This estimate may be conservative in most cases. Occasionally, 

because of the age or type of construction, a greater figure will be used. Example: Residence, 3000 

square feet, fully involved = $300,000. 





F. The Public Information Worksheet must be reviewed by Incident Commander before it is released 

to the news media. 





First Due Companies 

Purpose 

To provide a policy regarding the duties of first due Companies. 

Objective 

To establish guidelines to be followed by first due Companies arriving at an emergency scene. 

Scope 



It shall be the responsibility of all members to direct their efforts toward the saving of life and the 

protection and preservation of property. 

Policy 

The following guidelines shall be followed by the first due Company. 

Upon Arrival 

These steps should be followed by the first due Company or Staff upon arrival at any incident. 

A. Establish an effective operational and Command position. 

B. Rapidly evaluate the situation. (Size-up -- see below) 

C. Transmit a brief initial radio report of conditions encountered. 

D. Establish “Command” through a radio transmission. Remain in Command until formally relieved 

by a superior Officer. 

E. Determine primary objectives based on priorities. 

1. Rescue. 

2. Fire control. 

a. Offensive. 

b. Defensive. 

3. Property conservation 





F. Use a strategic plan of action to achieve objectives. 

G. Assign other arriving Companies and Units, according to your plan, until relieved of Command. 

H. Inform your relief of your objectives, strategic plan, planned actions, and actions which are in 

progress. 

Size-Up 

An accurate size-up shall be transmitted by radio from the first due Company or Staff. 

A size-up will set other responding Companies in motion, often without exact orders. 

A size-up should include the following: 

A. Company or Unit checking on the scene. -- Example: “Engine 1 on the scene.” 

B. Location -- Example: “2520 Keith Street.” 

C. Building or occupancy type -- Example: “Two-story residential.” 

D. Situation -- Example: “Nothing showing,” “Showing smoke,” “Fully involved.” 

E. Action being taken -- Example: “Laying a five (5) inch supply line,” “Conducting a primary 

search,” “Pulling a 1-¾ inch attack line.” 

A complete radio transmission may read, “Engine 1 on the scene, 2520 Keith Street, single story 

commercial, fire showing. Engine 1 is pulling two (2) 1-¾ inch attack lines, next due Engine bring supply 

line. Engine 1 is establishing Keith Street Command.” 

Priority #1 – Rescue 

A. If there is a life hazard or potential hazard, then Life Safety will become the number one priority. 

All actions on the scene by fire personnel will be directed toward minimizing the life hazard. 

B. Sometimes an aggressive, quick attack on the problem will alleviate the life hazards. 

C. Life safety includes the life safety of the public and of fire personnel. 

D. Fire personnel should not be placed in precarious positions or take unnecessary risks. The 2-in2 

out rule shall always be used unless there is a known and viable victim. 

E. Make decisions based on the ability to save lives at minimal risk to Fire Department personnel, 

utilizing ALL available safety equipment and proper procedures. 

Priority #2 – Fire Control 

A. Protect exposures first -- prevent the fire from spreading to uninvolved exposures. Confine the fire 

to the area of origin. 





B. Every effort should be made to contain the problem to the smallest area possible. 

C. Many times control efforts, such as a direct attack on a fire, can accomplish life safety, exposure 

protection, and control simultaneously. 

D. Control operations are utilized with an offensive or defensive strategy. 

Priority #3 – Property Conservation 

A. Insure building is safe to initiate salvage and overhaul operations. 

B. Identify location of property of value and remove. Cover property that cannot be removed. 

C. Overhaul, verify fire is completely extinguished. 

D. Determine cause and origin. 





Engine Company Operations 

Purpose 

To provide a policy defining Engine Company operations. 

Objective 

To provide guidelines for Engine Companies to achieve their tactical priorities. 

Scope 



The responsibility for the enforcement of this policy rests with the Company Officers. 

Policy 

All Cleveland Fire Department Engine Companies shall operate under the following guidelines. 

Equipment Check 

A. Personnel assigned to the Engine shall, upon reporting to duty, inspect the apparatus in order to 

confirm that all equipment is in accounted for and in working order. 

B. All portable equipment shall be checked for fuel levels and each piece shall be started to insure 

proper operation. 

C. All SCBA shall be checked for air level and proper operation. 

D. Engineers shall engage the pump, operate it at working pressure, circulate water, and exercise the 

relief valve, the transfer valve, etc. 

E. After shutdown, all other valves shall be exercised. 

F. Road test daily when practical. If weather does not permit the test, it shall be conducted as soon as 

possible. 

Tactical Priorities 

A. Rescue of viable victims must always be the first tactical priority. 

B. Protect exposures second. 

C. Confine the fire, third. 

D. Extinguish the fire, fourth. 

E. Overhaul the fire ground, fifth. 






This is an important factor of each Engine Company. All personnel shall participate in pre-fire planning. 

Hose Operations 

A. Booster Line 

Should only be used in limited situations, at the Company Officer’s or Command’s discretion. 

B. 1 ¾ inch Pre-connect with Fog Nozzle 

1. Shall be used in all fire situations where protective clothing is required. 

2. Shall be used unless the size or intensity of the fire dictates the use of larger lines, with 

greater reach and capacity. 

3. All 1¾ inch hand lines in operation shall be a minimum of 150 feet long with the 

exception of the front pre-connect of 100'. 

4. Shall be used on all vehicle fires and motor vehicle accidents with entrapment. 

C. High-Rise Packs 

1. Shall be carried in by Engine Company personnel on all responses to buildings with 

standpipe connections. 

2. Consists of a minimum 100 feet of 1 ½ inch hose, nozzle, and a gated wye. 

D. 2-½ inch Hose Line with Fog or Solid Stream Nozzle 

1. Shall be used anytime more than three (3) hand lines would be required to control the 

fire. 

2. Shall be used at any fire that is obviously too large for hand lines. 

3. Shall be used when hose lays of 1 ¾ inch line would be over 250 feet. A gated wye 

should be placed at the nozzle location and branch two-(2) 1 ¾ inch hand lines. 

E. Deluge Set 

1. May be operated from the apparatus “pre piped” or mounted unit. 

2. May be removed and set up to operate on the ground mount. 

3. Should be used when large volumes of water are required to control the fire. 

4. Shall be set up when situations indicate the need to keep personnel out of a hot zone. 

Example: -- Cooling a propane tank. 





5. Should be set up with one or two lines of 2 ½ inch or 3-inch hose. 

6. Observe all manufacturers’ safety recommendations when operating any deluge set. 

F. Soft Sleeve 

Engineers may utilize this short section of intake hose and position their apparatus near the hydrant when 

possible. 

G. Supply Lines 

1. On visible working fires the first due Engine shall forward lay a supply line when 

practical. Do not rely on the second Engine unless the Company Officer sees the second 

Engine arrive at the same time or prior planning has determined this is the best method. 

On residential and commercial fires with fire showing this shall be a minimum of one (1) 

5" Large Diameter hose line. 

2. Fires in unsprinklered buildings -- The second Engine may be required to support the first 

Engine on weak hydrants, long hose lays, or when a large volume of water flow is 

required. 

3. Fires in sprinklered buildings -- The second Engine will be required to support the 

sprinkler/standpipe connection. The Engine shall report to the Fire Department 

Connection (FDC) and prepare to support. Command will give the directive to supply 

unless fire conditions are visible. 

Hydrant Operations 

The Company Officer must select a mode of obtaining water supply in relation to the visible fire 

conditions. 

A. Hydrant to Fire -- Charged Line 

1. A firefighter (plug man) wraps the plug with a supply line, while the Engine proceeds to 

the fire. The plug man makes the hookup and, by radio contact or hand signal from the 

Engineer, charges the line. After the supply line is charged the plug man shall continue 

operation with the Company. 

2. This mode makes the Engine self-sufficient. 

3. Do not always rely on another Engine to provide the water supply. 

B. Hydrant to Fire -- Uncharged Line 

1. A supply line is laid from the hydrant to the fire, but now the line is left uncharged at the 

hydrant for another Company to hookup and support. 

2. This move allows the entire crew to immediately operate as a Company on the fire 

ground. 

3. No one will be left at the hydrant and a second Engine will be required for hookup and 

support. 





C. Direct to Fire -- No Line Laid 

1. The first Engine to arrive at the fire ground lays no hose. It proceeds directly to the fire 

and begins working off the water in its booster tank. 

2. A second Engine will be required to forward or reverse lay a supply line and to support it. 

Apparatus Positioning 

A. Pre-fire Planning 

1. Companies on pre-fire planning shall observe and make a note of potential places to 

position apparatus in relation to the building and the potential fire. 

2. Personnel shall also observe and make a note of special considerations, such as: water 

supply, access, building size and height, electrical hazards, etc. 

B. Coverage 

1. The first due Engine Company shall report to the front of the fire building. 

2. The second in Engine should be assigned to the rear unless supplying the first due 

Engine. 

3. The second Engine may not be able to drive the apparatus to the rear. Personnel should 

check the rear for operations. 

4. If the fire situation requires that the first arriving Company take a position at the rear of 

the fire building, the Officer shall notify later arriving Companies of the deviation from 

assigned positions. 

5. Assignment of late arriving Companies and those responding on second or later alarms 

shall be directed from Command. The Company Officer is responsible for positioning the 

apparatus. 

C. In Relation to the Structure 

1. Positioning at single family dwellings should be just past the building. 

2. Positioning at wide frontage buildings should be just past the entrance to the building. 

D. Truck Company or Ladder Company 

1. When the Truck/Ladder Company is following the Engine, allow room for the 

Truck/Ladder Company to initiate a rescue and to operate an elevated stream. Position 

beyond the desired point of entrance or fire building. 

2. When the Truck/Ladder Company is approaching from the opposite direction, the Engine 

should allow room for the Truck/Ladder Company to initiate a rescue or to operate an 

elevated stream. Position just short of the desired point of entrance or fire building. 





Water Supply 

3. When the Truck/Ladder Company approaches in front of the Engine, the Engine shall 

maintain a 50-foot separation behind the Truck for Snorkel operations and ground ladder 

removal. 

A. The first action of an Engine Company arriving at a fire ground is to obtain water for firefighting 

and rescue. 

B. Water Mains 

C. Drafting 

1. Engineers should be familiar with factors that affect the flow rate of a water main system, 

such as: -- size of mains, hydrant locations, potential hose lays, available water, and 

pressure. 

2. The Engineer is responsible for maintaining a minimum of twenty (20) psi on the 

Compound gauge. 

3. Utilize pre-fire plans as an aid. 

1. Engineers should be familiar with sources of water for draft, including locations, access, 

ground conditions, volume of water available, etc. 

2. These factors should be a part of pre-fire planning. 

D. Booster Tank 

1. This should be the first source of firefighting water prior to the use of a supply line or 

from draft. 

2. Engineers shall be aware at all times of the water flow and water remaining in the tank. 

3. Engineers shall also know the required flow for different operations, such as 1 ¾ inch 

line with fog nozzle. 

4. If a reliable water source has not been established and the booster tank runs dry, the 

Engineer shall transmit an emergency message to Command advising him of the 

situation. 





E. Tankers 

1. Engineers shall coordinate drafting operations with Command or the assigned Water 

Officer. 

2. Engineers must know the required flow and make it known to Command or the Water 

Officer for assignment of Tankers. 

3. Engineers must keep Command or the Water Officer abreast of the amount of water in 

the portable tank. 

4. Engines may be required to report to a fill site to supply Tankers operating a shuttle. 





Initial Attack Lines 

Company personnel must select a mode of attack -- direct or indirect. 

A. Indirect Attack: 

1. Shall be when fog streams are used to attack the fire from outside the fire building. 

2. An indirect attack should not be used to fight fires in an occupied building. 

B. Direct Attack: 

1. Shall be when streams are directed from inside to attack the seat of the fire. 

2. A direct attack should not be made in buildings which are in various stages of demolition, 

have been abandoned for long periods, have had previous fires, under construction or it 

has been determined by the IC that the structure is unsafe for entry. 

3. A direct attack should be made any time the building is occupied, unless a large, intense 

fire is encountered. In which case, it may be necessary to knock down or control the fire 

with indirect means first. 

Effective Stream Operation 

A. Stay low upon entering the fire area to let the heat and gases vent before moving in. 

B. Before the door to a fire area is opened, all firefighters should be in position, with the line charged. 

C. Bleed the air out of the line ahead of the water and adjust the fog nozzle pattern. 

D. If fire shows at the top of the door as it is opened, the ceiling should be hit with a solid stream to 

cool it and to control fire gases. 

E. Sweep the floor with the stream to cool burning debris and hot surfaces. This will help prevent 

burns to hands, knees, protective gear, and the hose line as it is advanced. 

F. Do not open the stream until fire can be hit unless firefighter safety is involved. Water directed at 

smoke will make visibility and smoke conditions worse; a fog stream will greatly increase this 

problem. Remember that firefighters are much more tolerant of dry heat than wet heat. 

G. Direct the stream at the base of the fire if it is localized. If the area is heavily involved, direct the 

solid stream forward and upward at the ceiling in a side-to-side motion, or rotate the stream. 

H. As the advance is made, the angle of the stream should be lowered and an attempt should be made 

to hit the main body of fire. 

I. When the main body of fire is knocked down, shut down the stream and let the area “blow” (allow 

smoke and gases to rise and vent.) Listen for crackling sounds and look for areas that “light up” so 

that extinguishment can be completed. 





J. When the fire is knocked down, minimize the use of fire streams. This will help control water 

damage and the weight of the water on the floor. 

K. Upon entering an area which is very hot and finding no fire, withdraw immediately and check the 

area below. 

Advancing Attack Lines 

A. Advancing a 1 ¾ inch hand line inside a fire building shall be done by a minimum of two (2) 

persons. 

B. One person should be assigned to the nozzle, one to back up the nozzle man, and one outside to 

feed in or take up hose. 

C. The hand line should also have one (1) Officer, accompanied by an inside vent man. (This person 

may be a part of the Truck/Ladder Company.) 

Ventilation 

Shall be coordinated between the Engine and Truck/Ladder Companies. If an attack crew is short the inside 

vent man, the Engine crew will have to perform the task. 

Backup Lines 

A. Shall be used in conjunction with attack lines. 

B. Shall be put into position before an interior attack begins. 

C. Lines shall be positioned close to, and set up to cover the same area as, the initial attack lines. 

D. Lines are to be operated to protect the interior crew. 

E. Lines are not to be used for exposure coverage or to attack the fire at other positions if the interior 

crew is not covered or if both lines are required to control the fire from the same point. This would 

still require backup line (s). 

F. Lines should be at least fifty (50) feet longer and if possible one size larger than initial attack lines 

in order to provide greater reach and deliver more water. 

G. Backing up 1 ¾ inch lines: 

1. Backup lines should be 1 ¾ inch with combination nozzles capable of supplying a solid 

stream. 

2. One 2-½ inch line may be used as a backup line. 





H. Backing up 2-½ inch lines: 

1. Backup lines should be 2½ inch with larger tips, unless already in use. 

2. Interior 2-½ inch line with fog nozzle should be backed by 1¾-inch line. 

3. When 2-½ inch hand lines fail to control the fire, all personnel shall retreat and attack 

with heavy stream devices. 





I. Heavy Streams for Backup 

1. Heavy stream devices, such as portable deluge sets, deck guns, and platform nozzles shall 

be used. 

2. Heavy streams have no backup. Additional devices will be added as above. 

J. Use of Backup Lines 

1. When backup lines are placed in service to control the fire, the interior attack lines should 

be removed and shut down. 

2. When backup lines have gained control of the fire and an advance can be made, the 

smaller lines can be used to mop up. This may be a coordinated effort. 

3. When 2½-inch hose is used on the initial attack and backup lines, a 1¾-inch line may be 

attached to the 2½-inch nozzles or wyes for mop up. 

Exposure Protection 

A. Exposure coverage is second only to rescue. 

B. Structures -- objects near a fire building -- (exterior exposures) and parts of the fire building not 

yet involved (interior exposures) must be protected to minimize the danger to their occupants as 

well as to contain the fire. 

C. Exposure hazard and protection shall be a part of every pre-fire planning activity. 

D. Truck/Ladder Companies will perform some of these jobs. If they are not available, Engine 

Companies must do this work. 

E. Exterior Exposures 

1. Must be protected as soon as possible. 

2. Personnel should know how to size-up an exposure and how to protect it. 

F. Convection Exposures 

1. Must be protected by patrolling the area downwind as air currents carry flying firebrands 

and embers. 

2. Command may assign an additional Company to cover convection exposures. 

3. Companies may be assigned to cover ground areas as well as buildings and rooftops. 





G. Radiant Heat Exposures 

H. Streams 

1. Must be protected as soon as possible. 

2. Radiant exposures must be considered in all directions from the fire buildings since wind 

is not an affecting factor. 

3. Radiant exposures must be protected by the application of water on the exposure. 

4. Water curtains will not adequately protect radiant exposures. 

5. Radiant exposure buildings will have to be checked inside, and a hand line will have to 

be stretched to protect the inside if necessary. 

6. The leeward side of the fire buildings must be covered first, followed by the other sides. 

1. Usually a 1¾-inch hand line with fog nozzle can be effective in protecting an exposure. 

2. Where there are tall buildings, extreme temperatures, high winds, etc. a 2½-inch line with 

solid stream nozzle may be required. 

3. Lines must be placed where they will cover the maximum amount of exposed area. 

4. If one line will not protect the exposure, additional lines or a large line shall be 

positioned. 

I. Interior Exposures 

1. Interior exposures must be covered similar to exterior exposures in order to keep the fire 

from spreading to uninvolved areas and to control fire spread vertically and horizontally 

through concealed spaces. 

2. Fire in any concealed space must be opened up by the Truck Company and extinguished 

by the Engine Company. 

3. If Truck personnel are not available Engine personnel will have to perform the work. 

4. A 1¾-inch line with fog nozzle is usually adequate to control interior exposures. 

5. Additional or larger lines may be required if the first line cannot control the fire. 

6. Control of water is a must. Flow what it takes, but preserve property. 



Heavy Stream Devices 

A. Portable Devices: 



1. A deluge set may be operated from the apparatus or on the ground. 

2. A deluge set shall be operated as prescribed earlier in this procedure. 

B. Fixed Devices: 

1. A deck gun is permanently mounted above the pump, between the cab and the hose bed. 

2. Some deck guns are pre-piped from the pump and some require the use of 2-½ inch or 3 

inch hose hooked to pump outlets. 

3. The apparatus on which a fixed heavy stream device is mounted must be carefully and 

correctly positioned at the fire scene. 

C. Elevated Streams: 

1. Elevated streams are managed by Truck Companies, although they must be supplied by 

Engine Companies. 

2. An effective stream requires coordination between both Companies. 

D. Nozzles -- Solid Stream: 

1. Nozzle pressure and flow 

1¾-inch -- 80 psi -- 800 gpm 

2-inch -- 80 psi -- 1000 gpm 

2. If water supply is a problem, a smaller nozzle must be used. 

A 1¼- inch tip may be used on a heavy stream device when there is not enough water flow to feed 

the nozzles listed above. 1¼-inch -- 80 psi -- 400 gpm 

E. Nozzles -- Fog: 

1. Should be operated at 100 psi to deliver 350-2000 gpm. 

2. Some fog nozzles are adjustable-gallonage. Example: -- 350, 500, 750, and 1000 gpm. 

3. A 500 gpm stream from a 500 gpm nozzle will be much more effective in controlling a 

fire than an inadequate stream from a 1000 gpm nozzle. 





F. Supplying Streams 

1. Place Pumpers at the hydrants (or other water source) sending water to pumpers at the 

fire. 

2. Use an adequate number or size of supply line laid between pumpers and from the 

Pumper at the fire to the heavy stream devices. 

3. Engineers must figure nozzle pressure and friction loss in order to pump effective 

streams. 

G. Positioning the Device: 

1. Fog nozzles must be positioned close to the fire building. 

2. Solid stream nozzles will perform better if they are positioned some distance from the 

building. 

3. Any heavy stream device must be positioned so that it hits the fire at an effective angle. 

H. Directing Heavy Streams: 

1. A heavy stream should be moved horizontally across the fire area it is covering. The 

stream should also be moved up and down so it reaches to the full depth of the fire area. 

2. If a stream is not effective, it may need to be moved. If moving does not help, the size of 

the stream should be increased or additional streams should be placed in service. 

I. Shut Down: 

Overhaul 

1. A heavy stream should be used only as long as fire, steam, or white smoke is visible in 

the area covered by the stream. 

2. As soon as the above conditions no longer exist, the heavy stream should be shut down. 

3. Hand lines may be used to mop up. 

A. Overhaul is a primary function of the Truck/Ladder Company. The Engine Company shall support 

the Truck/Ladder personnel by staffing hand lines. 

B. As Truck/Ladder personnel open the building and expose fires in concealed spaces, the Engine 

crew shall extinguish. 

C. To achieve the best results, both companies must work as a team, each performing their own tasks. 

D. If a Truck/Ladder Company is not available, Engine Company personnel must perform the work. 

E. Safety is of utmost importance. 

F. Full protective clothing and SCBA shall be worn during overhaul. 





Standard Company Functions 

Purpose 

A. To inform Fire Department personnel of the functions of the various tactical units. 

B. To reduce the amount and detail of orders required to get Companies into action on the emergency 

scene. 

C. To integrate the efforts to Engine and Truck companies in order to achieve effective rescue, fire 

control, and property conservation. 

Objective 

A. To provide each Company a list of basic emergency scene functions best accomplished by that 

unit. 

B. To identify the duties and responsibilities of the various tactical units on the emergency scene. 

Scope 

These guidelines apply to all Fire Department personnel. 


It is the responsibility of the Incident Commander to establish Command and to insure that the Engine and 

Truck Company operations are coordinated and are operating as efficiently as possible to gain control of 

the scene. 

It is the responsibility of the Company Officers to insure that their personnel are properly trained and are 

capable of performing their various functions. 

Policy 

A. The Incident Commander and the Company Officers, operating at a multiple Company 

emergency, shall coordinate and integrate their efforts, tasks, and functions so as to produce 

harmonious, effective, and efficient operations. 

B. Incident Commanders shall endeavor to utilize the various Fire Companies to their best advantage, 

within the scopes of their various standard functions, but may, if the extreme need arises, utilize 

Companies for any function, which may be required. 

C. Fire Companies must maintain a level of flexibility, which will insure their ability to perform the 

functions of other types of Companies (limited to available equipment and apparatus) if the 

situation demands such. 

D. Company Officers shall insure that the Fire Companies to which they are assigned are able to 

perform the various functions designated for that Company, as well as maintain the level of 

flexibility necessary to perform other functions as required. 



Engine Company Operations 

A. Search and Rescue. 

B. Treatment of injured victims. 


C. Placement and operation of hose lines. 


D. Pump hose lines -- utilize water supply to best advantage. 

E. Perform Truck Company functions if need arises. 

Truck Company Operations 

A. Search and Rescue. 

B. Treatment of injured victims. 

C. Provide forcible entry. 

D. Raise aerial or platform and ground ladders. 

E. Provide coordinated ventilation with fire attack. 

F. Check for fire extension. 

G. Provide on-scene lighting. 

H. Operate elevated streams. 

I. Perform salvage and overhaul duties. 

J. Perform Engine Company operations if need arises. 

Safety 

It is important that the various tactical units on the emergency scene coordinate activities to prevent undue 

injury to personnel. (i.e. coordinating ventilation with fire attack). 





Support Activities 

Purpose 

Tactical support activities are those functions that assist active fire control and rescue operations. They 

generally include forcible entry, ventilation and the provision of access. Most confusion on the fire ground 

results from the lack of such support functions and does not generally relate to the breakdown of basic 

water application activities. Command must cause these support functions to be completed in a timely and 

effective manner - he/she must support the “end of the nozzle.” 

Objective 

To establish guidelines for tactical support activities that assist in fire control and rescue. 

Scope 

This policy is a guideline to assist the Incident Commander in the various support activities. 


It shall be the responsibility of the Incident Commander to secure the support services necessary for the 

type of incident. 

Support Functions 

You ventilate a building principally for two reasons: 

A. To reduce the buildup of super heated gases and reduce potential back draft situations. 

B. To gain (and maintain) entry. 

Vertical ventilation, as close to directly over the fire as possible, is the most effective form of ventilation in 

working interior fire situations. The timing of ventilation becomes extremely important and must be 

coordinated with fire attack activities -- ventilation should be provided in advance of attack lines. Portable 

radio communications between attack teams and ventilation companies facilitate this interaction. 

Fire will naturally burn holes in roofs, regardless if you cut the hole or if the fire does it. If the fire burns 

through the roof (defensive ventilation), it will generally do so in the best location -- directly over the fire. 

If the Ladder or Ventilation Company cuts the roof, they must locate ventilation holes in a manner that will 

support rescue activities and fire confinement. If vent holes are cut in the wrong places, the fire will 

naturally be channeled to them and expand loss. 





When you cut a hole in a roof cut a big one. 

We ventilate to alter the interior conditions. The best operating position to determine if a building requires 

ventilation and the locations and timing of ventilation is the inside attack team. Interior and roof forces 

must communicate in order to coordinate the effort effectively. 

Do not operate hand lines, particularly ladder pipes, down ventilation holes. Operate hose lines on roofs 

only for the protection of personnel and external exposures. 

Effective topside ventilation will tend to keep roofs intact longer and roof condition necessarily becomes 

extremely important to ventilation activities. If ladder crews cannot get on the roof to ventilate because of 

advanced fire, Command had best begin to REACT in marginal offensive/defensive terms. Hose line crews 

can probably get inside and stay inside longer than ladder crews can stay on the roof. AXIOM: It is better 

to abandon the building a bit soon rather than a bit too late. 

Forcible entry involves a trade-off in time versus damage; the faster you force -- the more damage you do. 

The more critical the fire, the less important forcible entry damage becomes and vise versa. If the fire is 

progressing and you must go in and attack from the unburned side, don’t waste time trying to pick the locks 

-- force the door open. 

REMEMBER -- Try before you pry! 

The provision of access many times will determine if the fire is cut off and extinguished or not. These 

access-oriented activities generally involve pulling ceilings, opening up concealed spaces and voids, and 

the activities required to get fire attack efforts in to operate on hidden fire. Such operations beat up the fire 

building and must be done in a timely well placed manner. In such cases, do not hesitate -- if you size up 

fire working inside a concealed space, get ahead of it, open up and cut it off. 

Beware of the premature opening of doors, holes, access efforts, etc. before lines are in place and crews are 

ready to go inside. Good timing requires effective communication between Engine Companies or attack 

teams, Ladder Companies and Command. 

When laddering a roof, the ladder selected shall be one, which will extend 2' -- 3' above the roofline. This 

shall be done in an effort to provide personnel operating on the roof with visible means of egress. 

Once a building is laddered, NO PERSONNEL SHALL REMOVE THE LADDER FROM THE 

BUILDING DURING FIREFIGHTING OPERATIONS EXCEPT FOR THE CREW WHO 

PLACED THE LADDER IN SERVICE. If a ladder has to be moved, personnel shall climb the ladder 

and check for personnel operating above the fire (i.e. roof, second floor, etc.) before moving the ladder. 

If possible, when laddering buildings under fire conditions, place ladders near building corners or fire walls 

as these areas are generally more stable in the event of structural failure. 

When using the aerial ladder or Snorkel, the apparatus should be spotted at or near the corner of the 

structure. This gives the aerial apparatus the ability to reach two separate sides of the building. Also, the 

corner of the building is more stable in cases of structural failure. 

Mechanical ventilation of a building requires a coordinated effort between Engine Companies and Ladder 

Companies. Remember that mechanical ventilation forces in or out large volumes of air and may increase 

the rate in which the fire is spreading. 





In most cases, positive pressure mechanical ventilation should be used during overhaul operations. This 

increases the amount of “fresh” air for personnel performing the overhaul operations. 

Nighttime operations are extremely hazardous to firefighting personnel because of poor visibility of the 

emergency scene. Proper lighting of the fire ground should be one of the top priorities of Command. 

Lighting of the fire ground should be accomplished in a manner that firefighters leaving or entering a 

structure are not blinded by the lights. 

Both interior and exterior lighting is required, and should be sufficient enough to light up all areas of 

operations. 

Apparatus operating at an emergency scene should be aware that their headlights may blind drivers 

approaching the scene, thus creating hazards for personnel operating around the apparatus. If lights are left 

on they should be on dim. 





Ladder/Truck Company Operations 

Purpose 

To establish a policy for Ladder/Truck Company operations. 

Objective 

To provide guidelines for the safe and proper operation of the Ladder/Truck Company. 

Scope 



All Ladder/Truck Company Officers are responsible for the enforcement of these guidelines. 

Maintenance 

A. Personnel assigned to the Ladder/Truck shall, upon reporting to duty, inspect the apparatus in 

order to is in working order. 

B. All portable equipment shall be checked for fuel levels and each piece shall be started to insure 

proper operation. 

C. All SCBA shall be checked for air level and proper operation. 

D. Ladder 1 and Ladder 4 shall be set up every Friday, operating the Ladder to its full range of 

motion. If the weather does not permit the operation, it shall be conducted as soon as possible. 

E. Road test daily. If the weather does not permit the test, it shall be conducted as soon as possible. 

Policy 

A. Personnel assigned to the Ladder/Truck Company shall be fully responsible for the operation of 

that Company. 

B. Personnel operating as a Ladder/Truck Company shall remain together as a Company the 

Company may be split into sections such as roof ventilation and forcible entry, both of which are 

functions of the Truck Company. The Incident Commander may shut down the Ladder/Truck 

Company and utilize the manpower in different roles if needed. 

C. All Ladder/Truck Company personnel shall adhere to the following guidelines. 





Duties 

There are nine basic Ladder/Truck Company duties. Each of these duties might or might not be required in 

a particular fire situation. Ladder/Truck Companies shall be staffed, equipped, and trained to perform 

necessary duties quickly and efficiently, since their performance can affect the safety and performance of 

other responding 

Companies. Ladder/Truck Company operations should take into account the ways in which fire, heat, and 

smoke travel through a building, as well as the knowledge gained by pre-fire inspections and planning. 

At some fires, it might be necessary for a Ladder/Truck Company to perform all of these operations; other 

fires might require only some of the duties. Just as situations vary, procedures for each situation will also 

vary. With the exception of rescue, the duties are not necessarily performed in the order given; that, too, 

depends on the fire situation. 

Ladder/Truck Company apparatus and equipment permits truck crews to function effectively and quickly in 

accomplishing the firefighting objectives. Through training and experience, Ladder/Truck Company 

personnel must acquire knowledge, skill and judgment in performing the nine basic duties usually assigned 

to Ladder/Truck Companies. These duties are: 

1. Rescue 

2. Ventilation 

3. Laddering 

4. Forcible Entry 

5. Checking Fire Extension 

6. Salvage 

7. Elevated Stream Operation 

8. Utility Control 

9. Overhaul 

Before the Ladder/Truck arrives on the fire ground, all crew members shall know which tools they will be 

carrying into the fire building and what their duties will be on arrival -- that is, their initial assignments. 

Both the Company as a whole and the individual crewmembers should know their initial assignment before 

they arrive on the fire ground. 





Tools 

A. Hand tools 

The hand tools most useful for forcible entries are the halligan tool, sledge, and lock pullers such 

as the K tool and the flathead axe. 

For ventilation work, the pickhead axe, pike pole, and halligan tool are usually preferred. 

All these tools can also be used in checking for fire extension and in overhaul. 

B. Power Tools 

Power tools help in Ladder/Truck Company operations. The tools can be powered by electricity, 

gasoline engines, air, or hydraulic pressure. They can ease and speed up the work of the 

Ladder/Truck Company. 

Power tools cannot replace hand tools, but they do have a place in Ladder/Truck Company 

operations. 

C. Training 

Ladder/Truck crews must be thoroughly familiar with the tools of their trade. This means that they 

must be trained in the use of hand and power tools as well as in the handling of ladders. Most 

Ladder/Truck Companies can find places in their territory where they can raise ground ladders, 

position the aerial unit for rescue or elevated stream operations, and carry out their training 

movements. 

D. Tool Assignments 

The Ladder/Truck Officer shall assign personnel to particular tools based on the locations of the 

tools on the Ladder/Truck and positions taken by firefighters. 

Assignment of a crewmember to a particular Ladder/Truck position shall then include 

responsibility for the tools near that position. The firefighter shall take these tools into the 

building, either immediately upon arrival or after performing necessary outside duties. 

Firefighters shall be assigned Ladder/Truck positions and tools when their shift assumes duty. 

One member of the Ladder/Truck Company is assigned to the “bar” or “irons” and works with 

Engine Company personnel upon arrival at the fire. This firefighter is equipped with halligan tool, 

a flathead axe, self-contained breathing apparatus, and the usual running gear. This crew member 

forces entrance for the Engine crew, ventilates the fire floor around them, and searches for victims 

in the fire area and -- where the situation warrants it -- above the fire. 

Note that the “bar” or “irons” person belongs to a Ladder/Truck, rather than an Engine Company. 

If transferred to an Engine Company, this firefighter would soon be advancing hose lines, and not 

performing required Ladder/Truck duties. 





Coverage 

Once the search is complete, the member shall locate the Ladder/Truck Company Officer for 

another assignment. 

When the Ladder/Truck is already in operation at an incident, off-duty personnel may be assigned 

by Command to assist in Ladder/Truck Company operations. 

The Ladder/Truck Company must provide for immediate front and rear coverage of the fire building. Then 

the sides of the building (if detached) shall be covered. Fire conditions often vary between the front and the 

back or sides of a building. The entire building shall be checked as soon as possible upon arrival. 

A. Assignments 

The Ladder/Truck that is expected to arrive first (the first due) shall be assigned to cover the front 

of the building. 

These assignments shall be modified according to the situation; -- if, upon arrival, the first due 

Company finds a life hazard or some other serious situation in the rear, it shall cover that position 

first. 

The assignment of a Company to rear coverage does not mean that the Ladder/Truck must be 

driven to the rear. In some cases, this is impossible. It does mean that crewmembers must check 

the rear to determine what the situation is with regard to possible victims, and the extent and 

intensity of the fire. They shall determine whether assistance is required by Engine Company 

personnel working in the rear. 

B. Size-Up Information 

Crewmembers covering the fire building shall report their actions promptly to the Company 

Officer, or to Command. 

Both the fire situation and the number of Ladder/Truck personnel at the scene affect the decision 

on which operations to initiate. First priority must be given to operations whose objective is 

rescue; second, to exposure protection; and so on through the list of nine duties. Salvage 

operations shall be performed where possible in order to limit water damage. The smaller the 

crew, the more important it is that duties be assigned according to these priorities. 

These operations shall be performed simultaneously, rather than one after the other by the same 

tiring crew. 

A Relief Company or crew may come from off-duty personnel. The initial crew should report to 

Rehab while the relief crew is in operation. 

Apparatus Positioning 

Ladder/Truck Company apparatus must be positioned properly on the fire ground. This is also true of the 

Engine Company apparatus. There need not be a conflict between the two units; trucks and pumpers alike 

can be positioned for effective operation with a little foresight and planning. 





A. Approach 

Once the Ladder/Truck is at the fire scene, it shall advance in a slow, deliberate approach to the 

fire building. No Company shall try to beat another Company to a position whether it is an Engine 

or Ladder/Truck; such foolishness can only lead to poor positioning, accidents, and injuries. The 

Company Officer should be concerned only with getting a good position from which the Company 

can work efficiently. 

The Ladder/Truck must not be committed (that is, stopped, the wheels chocked, the jacks set, etc.) 

until it is in the proper position. This can only be determined after the truck has made its approach 

to the fire ground and the fire conditions have been observed. 

B. Positioning 

Rescue 

In areas of one-story and two-story buildings, it is not usually essential that the Ladder/Truck be 

positioned directly at the front (or rear) of the fire building. 

Since the platform will probably not be used in Ladder/Truck operations in such low-rise 

structures, the Ladder/Truck can be positioned to one side of the building. This will leave the 

priority positions for the Engine Companies, but will not hinder Ladder/Truck operations. 

A Ladder/Truck shall avoid a position that blocks Engine Companies from a hydrant or protective 

system intake. (Sprinkler or Standpipe Connections) 

If the fire building is more than two stories high, the Engine Companies must allow the 

Ladder/Truck Companies to get close to the building so aerial units can be positioned effectively 

and so the larger ground ladders can be raised quickly. Engines must leave a minimum of 50', if 

possible, behind the Ladder/Truck when spotting an Engine. This will insure that ground ladders 

can be removed. 

The extent, location, and intensity of the fire might not allow for perfect positioning of the 

Ladder/Truck. In these cases, the Ladder/Truck shall be positioned as well as possible and 

operations initiated without delay. If the building height and the intensity of the fire require such 

action, the Ladder/Truck shall be positioned for use of the elevated stream. Or, the best plan of 

action might be to position the Ladder/Truck some distance from the building to allow firefighters 

to perform their duties without unnecessary hazards. 

When the fire building is one of several row buildings of the same height, the Ladder/Truck can be 

positioned so the roof of an adjoining building can be laddered. The firefighters can then work 

their way from the adjoining roof to the fire building roof for venting and to the rear for other 

duties. 

Rescue of people in danger is the primary objective of a fire company and the first duty to be performed at 

the scene of a fire. 

Until such time as the Fire Department establishes a Rescue Company, the Ladder/Truck Company shall 

provide rescue operations. When a Rescue Company is established, the Ladder/Truck Company shall 

provide rescue whenever the Rescue Company is not on the scene. When a rescue is in progress, at the 

discretion of Command, a member or members from an Engine Company may be temporarily assigned to 

the Ladder/Truck Company to facilitate rescue. 





Ventilation 

Ventilation is the process of making openings in a fire building or exposure to allow heat and the products 

of combustion to leave the building. 

Ventilation contributes directly to the accomplishment of the basic fire fighting objectives by: 

1. Reducing the danger to trapped occupants and thus extending the time available to firefighters for 

rescue operations. 

2. Increasing visibility, both for firefighters and occupants, thereby decreasing the danger inherent in 

other fire ground operations and increasing fire ground efficiency. 

3. Permitting quicker and easier entry to allow search operations or to advance lines. 

4. Minimizing the time required by Truck crews to find areas to which fire has spread within the 

building. 

5. Decreasing or stopping the spread of fire. 

6. Reducing the chance of flash over or back draft. 

The general rule behind all ventilation operations is: -- open the fire building in such a way that all 

accumulations of heat and combustion products will leave the building by natural convection. 

Natural Openings 

A building can be effectively ventilated through natural openings – “built-in” construction features that can 

be quickly opened and easily repaired. Windows are natural openings, as are skylights, roof hatches, 

ventilators, and penthouses. The effectiveness of using natural openings for ventilation depends on their 

location in relation to the fire and on the pathways open to the combustion product. 

Ladder/Truck Companies should determine which are available and how they can best be used for 

ventilation. Truck crews should be able to recognize natural roof openings and the building areas served by 

these openings, and should know the most efficient methods for uncovering them with standard hand tools. 

Windows 

Windows should simply be opened. Double-hung windows should be opened about two-thirds down from 

the top and one-third up from the bottom. Other types of windows should be opened as much as possible. If 

a window is equipped with a storm window, it, too, must be opened or knocked out. 

Shades, Venetian blinds, drapes, curtains, and other window coverings must be moved away from the 

window. If they cannot be raised or moved to the side quickly, they should be pulled down. If there is not 

enough time to open windows and storm windows, they should be knocked out with a Truck tool. 

Firefighters outside the fire structure must be wary of the possibility of flying glass. 





In some cases, Truck crews cannot get inside the building to open windows. Then the windows should be 

knocked out from the outside with ground ladders or aerial units. 

a. Effects of Wind 

When wind is a factor, the windows on the leeward side of the building shall be opened first. Then 

the windows on the windward side can be opened to allow the wind to blow combustion products 

out of the building. Opening the windows in proper sequence will create effective cross 

ventilation. 

b. When the roof or some roof features must be opened for venting, the windows on the top floor 

should be opened or knocked out after the roof is opened. 

When the windows on several stories must be opened or knocked out, firefighters shall begin at 

the top and work down. 

Natural Roof Openings 

In multistory buildings, vertical shafts carry stairways, elevators, dumbwaiters, electric wiring, heating 

ducts, and plumbing and sewer pipes. 

The shafts are capped at the roof with various types of closures; these can be removed to make effective 

openings into the building 

Skylights 

The positioning of skylights can give firefighters an idea of the layout or the building under them. The area 

immediately below a skylight is usually boxed in, so the cockloft or attic space is effectively separated 

from the skylight. Thus, when the skylight is opened, the building proper will be ventilated, but the space 

just below the roof will not. To ventilate this space, the roof or the boxed-in area must be opened. 

a. Opening Skylights 

If the glass will not come out easily and quickly, it must be knocked out. Although this method is 

the least desirable, it might be the only way to quickly open the skylight for venting. Personnel 

shall be conscious of firefighters operating inside, and possibly under, falling glass. 

To insure that firefighters do not fall through the opening where a skylight has been lifted away, 

the skylight should be laid on the roof upside down to serve as a warning. Then it will not be 

mistaken in smoke or darkness as being in place over its opening. 

b. Plastic Skylights and Roof Panels 

Plastic skylights are mounted in the same way as glass skylights. When a plastic skylight cannot 

be removed quickly, the frame should be cut where it meets the plastic, and the bubble pried up. 

These panels are usually weak and will not support much weight, Truck crews shall avoid 

stepping on them. The plastic panels can be pulled up after the roof is cut, or pried up along one 

edge of the panels. 





c. Effects of Wind 

Truck crews opening a roof or any roof feature should keep their backs or sides to the wind. If 

they face the wind, their faces may be subjected to a blast of fire, heat, or smoke and gases. 

d. Openings below the Skylight 

If the area below the opened skylight is boxed in, the cockloft must be vented through an opening 

in the roof. 

If the fire is directly under the roof (that is, on the top floor of the building), a roof opening should 

be made as close over the fire as safety allows. Otherwise, the opening will draw the fire across 

the top of the fire floor, under the roof or ceiling. 

Roof Scuttles (Hatches) 

A scuttle is placed in a roof to allow access to the roof from inside the building. Sometimes a ladder is built 

into the wall below the scuttle. In multiple occupancies, scuttles are usually located above and at one end of 

the top-floor corridors. In stores and other business establishments, they are usually located at the rear of 

the building. 

a. Opening Scuttles 

If a cover cannot be removed quickly, the top of the cover should be cut out. It can easily be 

replaced. 

b. Opening Below the Scuttle 

Ventilators 

As with skylights, the area below a scuttle might be boxed in to separate it from the cockloft. Once 

the cover is removed or cut, Truck crews should check to see if the scuttle is closed at ceiling 

level. If smoke pours out, these areas will have to be probed with tools. 

Some ventilators open only into the cockloft. Others open into the top floor of the building. Others may be 

on vertical shafts that extend the full height of the building. 

Each of these ventilators can be used to vent a building. Truck Company personnel should be familiar with 

the different types of ventilators and the type of venting each provides. 

Removing Ventilators 

Smoke coming from a ventilator indicates that the fire has reached the area it serves. The ventilator should 

be opened to remove the restriction at the top (weather cover.) 





Cutting Through Roofs 

A roof made of boards under standard roofing materials can be cut with axes or a power saw and the cut 

areas forced with a halligan tool or the pick of an axe. A plywood roof should be cut with a power saw. In 

either case, firefighters should be careful not to cut joists or other structural members; this will weaken the 

area in which they are working. 

Roof openings shall be opened to 4' x 4' for residential and to 4' x 8' for commercial buildings. 

All the roof boards shall be cut through before any of them are pulled up. When pulling up the cut boards, 

Ladder/Truck crews shall keep their backs to the wind. 

When all the boards have been ripped up, the ceiling below shall be knocked down with a pike pole or 

similar tool. The ceiling hole shall be made as large as the roof hole. 

Special care must be taken when the fire is immediately below the roof -- that is, in the attic under a gabled 

roof, or in the cockloft under a flat roof. In such cases, the roof must be opened as close as possible to the 

seat of the fire. 

Trench 

In buildings that are long and narrow and those with common attics, such as a warehouse or a large 

multifamily apartment, a trench may be cut to stop the lateral spread of fire. 

A trench should be cut at a point where you desire the spread to be stopped. This operation is time 

consuming and may require all members of the Truck Company. Multiple hand and power tools will be 

required. 

The cut should be 2' to 4' wide and run from the ridge to the lowest point of the roof. Cut on both sides of 

the roof. The boards and roofing materials will be removed as described above. 





Means of Ventilation 

Forced, mechanical or positive pressure ventilation is usually accomplished through the use of smoke 

ejectors (fan), fog streams, or blowers. 

1. Smoke Ejectors 

a. Fan Placement 

Fans are most effective when placed where they tend to increase natural air flow. They 

should, therefore, be positioned in windows, doorways, roof openings, basement 

openings, or openings that have been made to ventilate the building. 

When a fan is positioned in a window or doorway, all shades, drapes, blinds, curtains and 

screens should be removed to eliminate restriction of airflow. If possible, the open area 

around a fan should be closed with salvage covers or whatever materials are available; 

this increases the fan’s efficiency by directing air to and through the opening and by 

preventing smoke from reentering. 

Firefighters must be careful when positioning fans not to exhaust smoke into congested 

areas. Fans must be placed so no smoke is blown into the open windows of nearby 

buildings or into the intakes of heating and cooling systems. 

b. Fans in Tandem 

2. Fog Streams 

Fans can be especially effective when used in pairs. When two (2) fans are being used to 

exhaust smoke, one should be placed near an outside opening so it blows smoke out of 

the building; the other should be positioned inside the room so it blows smoke toward the 

first fan. 

Two fans can also be positioned to exhaust smoke and draw in fresh air at the same time. 

The exhaust fan should be mounted high in a ventilation opening where smoke and gases 

have collected. The intake fan should be lower, at floor level if necessary, so that working 

firefighters will benefit from the fresh air. 

Fog streams can be used to start ventilating immediately after the fire has been knocked down in a 

room. For this, the stream must be directed out of a window in such a way that it draws out the 

remaining smoke and gases. 

The stream should be positioned so the fog pattern covers most of the window opening. This 

usually means that the nozzle should be held a few feet inside the window. 

Fog stream venting should be a short term operation. If the operation is obviously ineffective in a 

particular situation, other venting techniques should be used. 





3. Positive Pressure 

Blowers can be used to ventilate a building through positive pressure, unlike fans which operate 

on negative pressure. 

This type of ventilation is most desirable due to its effectiveness and ease of set up. One firefighter 

can be used to put this method into operation. 

On any structural fire the blower should be placed in the location where the Engine Company is 

advancing hand lines. The blower will project a cone of air. This invisible cone should completely 

cover the opening, usually the main door. On a standard residential door the blower will be placed 

10' to 15' from the doorway. This distance will be adjusted to the size of the opening. 

To check the coverage, use a bare hand and follow the outline of the doorjamb. If the air current 

can be felt all the way around the door, the opening is sealed. Also, if smoke does not leak around 

the cone, the opening is sealed. If the opening is too large, multiple blowers or assistance from a 

fan will be required, or a salvage cover may be used to minimize the size of the opening. 

On large buildings place the blower closer to the opening in order to maximize air movement, and 

use a fan to seal the opening. The fan will be placed behind the blower. 

When the blower is in operation, the building cannot be “opened up” as in natural ventilation. This 

method requires one air entrance (point of blower) and one exit point. The exit point opening must 

be smaller than the blower opening. For most efficient operation, a building will be sectored and 

smoke, heat, and gases will be removed room by room or area by area. 

Example: -- Open a bedroom window and door to clear that room. When clear, close the window 

and door and open the adjoining room in the same fashion. Continue the process. 

Any room or areas not being cleared shall be closed in order to achieve maximum ventilation or 

pressure. 

NOTE: This procedure is not in detail. Perfection of this method is achieved through 

training, education, experience, and trial and error. 





Safety 

1. Roof ladders shall be used in all situations. 

2. Flat roofs may be cut with a K-12 power saw or a chain saw. 

3. The K-12 saw shall not be used on any roof over 6/12 pitch. The chain saw may be utilized. 

4. Any roof that requires extreme measures to maintain balance on a ladder shall be opened by hand 

tools, not power tools. 

5. A minimum of two firefighters shall operate on any roof operation. 

6. If personnel are available, an extra person shall be assigned to the roof safety sector. 

7. All power tools shall be started and warmed-up on the ground prior to reporting to or hoisting to 

the roof. No power tool shall be running while reporting to or being hoisted to the roof. 

8. SCBA shall be worn by all personnel operating on a roof. 

When the fire is free-burning, ventilation should begin at the same time as the initial attack or as soon after 

it is possible. When the fire is smoldering or is suspected to be smoldering, the building must be vented 

before it is entered. 





One and Two Story Dwellings 

In most situations, one and two story dwellings can be adequately ventilated through windows. There is 

usually no need to vent through either natural or forced roof openings unless the fire is in the attic. 

Ventilation can be supported through positive pressure blowers. 

A. One Story Dwellings 

In a single-story dwelling, Ladder/Truck crews should open or remove windows close to the fire, 

while the Engine crews begin fire attack. 

Ladder/Truck crews should then enter the dwelling to search for victims and check for fire 

extension. At that time, they should open the other windows to complete the ventilation. The attic 

or cockloft should be checked for fire spread, especially in the area directly above the fire 

B. Two Story Dwellings 

If the fire is on the first floor, the first-floor windows closest to the fire should be opened 

immediately. The second floor should also be vented and a search for victims and fire extension 

begun as soon as Truck crews can enter the dwelling. 

If the fire is on the second floor, that floor must be vented first. Where possible, the fire floor 

should also be vented from the inside. 

The attic or cockloft should be entered, checked for fire, and vented if necessary. This is especially 

important where units of a two-family dwelling are side by side, since such dwellings often 

contain a single common attic across which fire can also spread from one unit to the other. Since 

fire can also spread through the (usually flimsy) dividing wall between side-by-side units, this too 

should be carefully checked along its full length and height. 

C. Attic Fires 

A working fire in an attic should be attacked from within the building. To aid Engine Companies, 

Ladder/Truck crews must ventilate the attic. If there is a window at each end of the attic, both 

windows should be opened or removed from outside. If an attic has no windows, it may have 

built-in louvers at each end for normal ventilation. These are usually located under the peak of the 

roof and can be removed to accelerate venting. If necessary for adequate venting, the roof should 

be opened at or near the hot spot. 

D. Basement Fires 

A basement should be ventilated through all available basement openings. In addition, the first 

floor should be thoroughly vented. 

By also venting the first floor, Truck crews will aid Engine personnel in positioning their lines and 

advancing them to the basement. 





Multiple-Use Residential and Business Buildings 

A. Roof Operations 

1. Access 

In order to vent the roof, Ladder/Truck crews must get to it. If possible, they should use 

some means other than the aerial unit; this keeps the aerial available for rescue, top-floor 

venting, and other operations. 

Truck personnel should not, however, attempt to use interior stairs in the fire building for 

access to the roof. 

If the fire building abuts a building of the same height, Ladder/Truck crews can climb 

interior stairs there to the uninvolved roof and then cross over on the fire building, 

provided these are not crowded with occupants evacuating it. If the fire building has two 

or more fire escapes, Truck crews might be able to reserve one of them for roof access. 

They must, however, make sure that the fire escape they use has a ladder to the roof. 

If there is no other way to get to the roof, Ladder/Truck crews must use ground ladders or 

aerial platforms. An aerial platform should be placed so that at least half the width of the 

basket extends above the roof, if the gate is on the front of the basket. 

A ladder or platform used for roof access should remain in place until crews leave the 

roof. If it is needed for rescue, the unit must be returned to its original roof position as 

soon as the rescue is completed. 

If visibility is poor, Ladder/Truck crews should probe for the roof with tools before 

stepping onto it. The roof is often well below the top of its surrounding wall, especially at 

the front of a building. A firefighter, who guesses at the position of the roof, because it 

cannot be seen, may be injured seriously. When they reach the roof, no matter how they 

got there, crews should immediately look for another way off, to be used in an 

emergency. 

2. Personnel 

At least two firefighters should be sent to the roof for the venting operation. They can 

work together and keep track of each other. If one is injured, the other will be there to 

help or at least to call for help. 





B. Venting 

Roof venting should begin with whatever natural openings are available. A roof feature that shows 

smoke should be opened first. Truck personnel should not attempt to enter the building from the 

roof if the top floor is heavily charged with smoke. Instead, they should leave the roof and open 

the top-floor windows from platforms. The floor just above the fire floor must be thoroughly 

vented for two reasons: -- first, that floor must be searched for victims; second, it must be checked 

for vertical fire extension, which must be controlled so the fire does not travel vertically to higher 

floors. The fire floor must be vented to allow the advancing of hose lines and search for victims, as 

well as for firefighter safety. 

C. Roof Operations 

A natural roof feature should be used for the first roof opening only if it is close enough to the hot 

spot; otherwise, the roof should be cut open at the hot spot or as close to it as possible. After one 

opening has been made over the main body of fire, natural openings can be used to complete the 

ventilation job. 

Firefighters reaching such a roof should check its condition carefully. If the roof feels spongy or is 

sagging, the steel could be warped and, therefore, weakened. Firefighters should avoid such areas. 

Although they should open the roof as close to the hot spot as possible, they should not endanger 

themselves to do so. 

Special consideration must be given to buildings with trusses. Trusses can fail with no warning. 

Utilize pre-fire plans to aid in the decision of whether to open the roof. 

Smoldering Fires 

A. Back draft 

B. Venting 

A smoldering fire must be ventilated before it is attacked. 

An opening must be made as high on the building as is safely possible to release these gases and 

allow them to move out of the structure. This is the same principle used to vent free-burning fires. 

The difference is that with smoldering fires the venting must be done before the building is 

entered, in order to relieve the explosive situation and reduce the chance of back draft. If this 

sequence is not followed, air entering the building with firefighters will cause immediate ignition. 

It is important to ventilate fully and in the right places to insure that the hot gases are dispersed. 

Because a back draft can take the form of a violent explosion, releasing a tremendous blast of fire 

and heat, firefighters must avoid approaching the building directly. Their approach should be 

made either from an oblique angle or parallel to the building. 





As a precaution, attack lines should be charged and ready for use during the ventilation of the 

building. Crews on the lines should be in safe positions, protected from flying glass, and ready to 

enter the building as soon as venting is completed. Likewise, if there is any possibility of a back 

draft, apparatus should not be positioned in a direct line with the building, especially if there are 

large glass areas at the street level. Once the fire is ventilated, it will burn freely. It can then be 

attacked in the same way as any other free-burning fire, although its size might not immediately be 

known. 

Checking Fire Extension 

Exposure protection is second only to rescue. Exposures, structures, or parts of structures not involved with 

a working fire but in danger of becoming involved, must be protected to minimize the danger to their 

occupants and to contain the fire. 

The major contribution of Ladder/Truck Companies to exposure protection activities is to check carefully 

and thoroughly for fire spread. 

A. Interior Fire Extension 

Truck Companies must check interior exposures to determine where the fire is located and to keep 

it from spreading to uninvolved areas. 

Truck Company personnel must move just as quickly to find spreading fire and, where necessary, 

to open up building features to check the extent of the fire and to provide access so Engine crews 

can hit it with their streams. 

The protection of interior exposures must be a coordinated effort between Ladder/Truck and 

Engine Companies. Ladder/Truck crews check for spreading fire, and Engine crews extinguish it. 

Ladder/Truck personnel need not wait for lines to be advanced before they begin to check fire 

extension. They may be able to get into position much more quickly than those on the lines; if so, 

they should begin checking immediately. Engine crews on hand lines might be assigned positions 

in the fire building as a result of the efforts of Ladder/Truck crews. If fire is found in a particular 

location, lines will be necessary there. If not, the lines can be better used elsewhere. 

1. Fire in Concealed Spaces 

The opening of concealed spaces and ventilation of involved areas must be done by 

Truck Company personnel in exposure protection operations. 

2. Vertical Fire Spread 

a. Indications 

Upon arrival, Ladder/Truck Company personnel should be looking for signs that 

fire has gotten into vertical channels within the building. 




b. Checking Walls 


The search for vertical fire spread should begin directly over the fire on the floor 

above the fire floor. 

If fire is extending upward within the wall, a line should be called for and the 

wall opened up to allow streams to hit the fire. If the fire is at the baseboard 

level only, or if there is heat but not fire, the wall need not be opened further. 

Streams should be directed at the opened baseboard area if fire is showing. The 

walls themselves should be checked for the signs of fire. A wall that shows any 

signs of fire must be opened to allow a stream to be directed onto the fire. 

When fire is found to be extending up past the wall opening, the area above it 

must also be checked. This means checking another story, an attic, or a cockloft. 

Is the fire has extended beyond that area, higher stories must be checked until 

the extent of the fire is found. Streams must be directed onto any area that has 

been touched by the fire. 

c. Checking Vertical Shafts 

Truck crews on the floor above the fire must check all rooms that could contain 

utility shafts or pipes. 

d. Checking Stairways 

Stairways and the spaces under them must be checked if they are near the fire, 

either on the fire floor or on the floor above the fire. Because the stairways will 

be used by escaping occupants as well as by advancing firefighters, if at all 

possible the stairs must be kept intact and eliminated as a source of fire 

extension. 

e. Checking Doors and Windows 

3. Horizontal Fire Spread 

The areas around doors and windows should be carefully checked if they have 

come in contact with fire or if fire has burned into doors and windows on the fire 

floor. 

All horizontal channels must be checked for signs of extending fire. 

a. Indications 

Truck crews must check floors and ceilings for smoke, fire, discoloration, hot 

spots, blistering paint, black heat streaks, and the sound and smell of fire. 





b. Checking Ceilings 

Most ceilings are easy to open with a pike pole. First, a small slot should be 

opened along the common wall. If fire is found, a line should be called for. 

When it is in place, the ceiling should be opened up until the full extent of the 

fire is exposed and can be knocked down by the stream. 

If personnel numbers and fire conditions permit, salvage covers should be 

placed over furniture or stock in the area to keep water damage to a minimum. 

There may be two or even three levels of ceilings. After the lowest ceiling is 

opened, the others must also be opened, whether or not fire is found above the 

lowest ceiling. 

Hanging ceilings contribute to the rapid horizontal spread of fire across the 

building and must be checked carefully. 

c. Checking Attached Structures 

4. Open Interior Spread 

The structures attached to the fire structure must be checked for the lateral 

spread of fire. Truck crews must assume that there is nothing to stop the spread 

of fire through these spaces until they determine otherwise. 

The basements of structures attached to the fire structure must be checked 

quickly. 

Ladder/Truck Companies can assist in deterring the lateral spread of fire by closing 

doors, windows, service openings, and the like between the involved area and the 

remainder of the building. 

This can often be accomplished while Ladder/Truck crews are getting into position to 

check for fire spread, even before the attack lines have been advanced. 

Fire doors are sometimes blocked open by occupants to ease the flow of foot traffic. 

“Automatic” fire doors, which are normally open but which close in the event of a fire, 

are sometimes kept from closing by stored materials. Ladder/Truck personnel should 

make sure these doors are closed properly. 

5. Exterior Exposures 

Ladder/Truck crews can protect an exterior exposure from fire spread by entering the 

building and then closing windows and outside doors to keep sparks, embers, and other 

burning material from entering. Firefighters should remove curtains, drapes, and shades 

from windows that face the fire or keep them from being ignited by radiated heat. They 

should check airshafts, narrow walkways or alleys, and open areas toward the exposure. 

They also should evacuate all occupants of the building. 





Forcible Entry 

One responsibility of Ladder/Truck Companies is to provide access to locked-up structures, by force if 

necessary. Ladder/Truck Companies can cut, pry, or force entry into a structure. Ladder/Truck crews 

should know how and when to use forcible entry tools, as well as which buildings in their territory will 

require forcible entry if they become involved with (or exposed to) fire. 

A. Pre-fire Inspection 

In preparation for forcible-entry operations, Ladder/Truck Company personnel should 

review pre-fire plans. 

B. Size-Up 

Forcible entry is another Ladder/Truck Company operation that appears to add damage to 

the fire building. However, the small amount of damage done through forcible entry 

allows firefighters to get into position quickly, can result in the saving of lives, and 

greatly reduces overall damage. The need for forcible entry will be indicated by pre-fire 

inspections, along with initial size-up of the situation (including the type of occupancy, 

the rescue problem, and the location and extent of the fire.) 

1. The Fire Building 

The first-arriving Ladder/Truck Company might find little or no sign of fire, a 

working fire, or a smoldering fire in a building that must be entered forcibly. If 

there are no signs of fire, the building can be checked quickly to determine the 

easiest way to force entry. In this situation, Ladder/Truck crews have the time to 

force entry carefully, so they cause the minimum amount of damage. 

In a working fire, the Ladder/Truck Company must force entry immediately 

without stopping to consider the damage they might do. The faster the building 

is opened, the sooner the building can be searched, the fire attacked, and the 

combustion products vented. A working fire justifies quick entry by the most 

expeditious means. 

When first arriving, Ladder/Truck Companies find (or suspect) a smoldering 

fire, they must not enter the building until it has been properly ventilated. 

Once inside the fire building, Ladder/Truck personnel might have to force entry 

to individual units in order to perform other Ladder/Truck duties, especially to 

search for victims. They also might have to force doors within the fire building 

to insure that they will have access to units or parts of the building for later 

firefighting operations. 





C. Tools 

2. Exposed Buildings 

When the fire building is one of a row of attached structures, Ladder/Truck 

crews should force entry into the building on each side of the fire building. 

Whether or not Ladder/Truck Company personnel have to enter these buildings 

at the time they are opened, they should be opened so that firefighters can 

quickly enter them if necessary. 

Ladder/Truck companies should not force entry into exposures when force is not 

required. Always check the entry door before it is forced, since it may not have 

been locked. 

Many commercial occupancies participate in the Knox Box-Knox Lock 

program. The box is mounted near the main entrance. Most of our vehicles 

carry keys to the Knox Box for entry to the building. Attempt not to force entry 

into a building equipped with a Knox Box, unless obvious fire conditions exist. 

A Ladder/Truck crew that is well trained in the use of forcible-entry tools will work 

quickly and efficiently with minimal damage. A poorly trained crew will work slowly 

and will not use the tools correctly. Incorrect use of the tools will result in excessive 

damage, even if the crew works at a snail’s pace. 

Personal safety must be emphasized - especially with regard to power tools - in training 

sessions as well as in actual operations. Eye and hand protection are of the utmost 

importance. A Ladder/Truck Company member who neglects this protection to save time 

will defeat the purpose if an injury results. Ladder/Truck personnel must be extremely 

careful when working with hand tools near glass, when using power saws, and when 

using air - or hydraulic-powered forcing tools, cutting torches, etc. Anyone not actually 

involved in the operation should stand clear of the area. 

1. Cutting Tools 

The cutting tools most often used for forcible entry are pickhead and flathead 

axes, bolt cutters, power saws, air-operated and hydraulic cutters. 

In addition, the adz (chisel) end of a halligan or Kelly tool can be used to cut and 

can be driven by a flathead axe or maul. Of the two axes, the pickhead is usually 

kept sharper for cutting. The Flathead axe, not sharpened to as fine edge, is 

useful for forcing and prying. 

2. Prying and Forcing Tools 

The tools available for prying and forcing work are the halligan tool, pry-axe, 

and similar devices. The flathead axe is often used for such work, either alone 

or driven by another flathead axe, or to drive some other tool. 





3. Lock Pullers 

Lock pullers such as the K-tool, are designed to remove cylinder locks. When 

operated properly, they do this quickly and are especially useful in opening steel 

doors equipped with cylinder locks. 

A Ladder/Truck Company should be equipped with at least one lock puller. In 

use, one part of the lock puller is driven onto the cylinder lock and then pried off 

with a halligan or similar tool. The lock is pulled out with the tool, and then 

another part of the tool is used to release the latch. 

D. Forcible Entry through Windows 

If a window at or above the ground level is unlocked, there is no entry problem. If the 

window is locked, it must be forced open. 

1. Double-hung Windows 

This type can be forced without much strain by prying up the bottom section at 

the center of the window. If the top section is made of small panes, the pane 

nearest the lock can be removed and the window unlocked. If a double-hung 

window that must be used for entry cannot be forced quickly, the window 

should be completely knocked out. Then, the window should be removed with a 

tool. If it is safe to enter, the firefighter should remove all splinters of glass and 

frame before moving through the window. 

2. Other Windows 

E. Wooden Doors 

Windows that cannot be easily opened or pried should be broken. Any window 

broken shall be completely cleaned around the frame to clear the way for 

potential escape. 

Doors usually have center panes (or panels) that can be quickly broken out. If the 

opening is sufficient for entry and exit, the door can be left in place; otherwise, one 

firefighter can reach through the opening and unlock or unbolt the door from the inside. 

1. Commercial Occupancies: Rear 

a. Steel Doors 

Before an attempt is made to force a steel door, it should be checked for 

an exposed lock or exposed hinges. If the lock can be seen, drive in a 

pry tool between the door and frame, and force the door open. If the 

hinges are exposed, pull the hinge pins and open the door from the 

hinge side, or drive a tool between each hinge and the door facing to 

force the hinges loose. If several doors are to be opened, it may 

become necessary to use hydraulic tools in order to expedite entry. 





b. Breaching Walls 

The opening should be made only large enough to permit streams to be 

directed inside to knock down fire and cool the interior. Then the hole 

can be enlarged enough to allow access for firefighters. At this point, if 

possible, the enlarged opening should have a keystone shape. 

c. Roll-Up Doors 

If a door is difficult to force open, it can be cut with a power saw, axe, 

or cutting torch. When cutting or prying these doors, Ladder/Truck 

crews must be careful of glass panes set in the doors. If the glass breaks 

while a door is being forced, shards may fly in all directions. 

d. Light Doors 

If the door has a glass pane without bars, it is best to remove the glass 

and attempt to open the locks from the inside, provided the location of 

the fire does not prevent such action. As always, firefighters must use 

caution when attempting to force a door that contains glass. 

2. Dwellings and Apartments 

Locked residential structures often have one or more glass panes that can be 

knocked out, allowing Truck crews to open the locks from inside. 

a. Apartment Doors 

If the doorframe is constructed of light metal, it might not support the 

pry tool. In such a case, the tool should be driven in further than 

normal, and the door struck with the back of a flathead axe as the end 

of the tool is pulled away from the door. This will usually spring the 

door loose. The pressure exerted in forcibly opening an apartment door 

will usually tear loose or break any chain lock. 

b. Balcony Doors 

When located properly, relative to the fire situation, these doors can be 

used for entry and fire attack. If a door is particularly tough to force, 

use a flathead axe to drive a pry tool between the door and the framing. 

Two balcony doors locked to each other also can be opened by driving 

a pry tool between them. Because there is so much glass involved, care 

should be taken to avoid straining the glass enough to break it. As a 

rule, the glass should be broken out for entry into the apartment only 

when there is a need for immediate rescue, or when the glass is already 

stained or damaged by heat or smoke. 





Aerial Operations 

The Ladder/Truck Company effects aerial operations at those alarms requiring: 

1. Rescue -- removing occupants from windows and roofs; placing Ladder/Truck crews on upper 

floors for search. 

2. Ventilation -- placing crews on the roof and upper floors; knocking out windows with the aerial 

unit itself or with elevated streams. 

3. Attack Lines -- providing access to the building for firefighters with lines; hoisting lines up to 

crews in the building; positioning a line for use as a portable standpipe. 

4. General Access -- augmenting or replacing stairways and fire escapes for entry to the fire building. 

5. Hoisting -- use as a derrick to hoist sections of hose, standpipe bags, tools, fans, appliances, and 

other equipment to firefighters on upper floors. 

6. Elevated Streams -- directing heavy platform-pipe streams for initial attack; general firefighting 

and exposure coverage; raising hand lines for similar operations. 

Safe Procedure 

In all cases, the operator must follow the practice established by the manufacture of the particular unit. 

An aerial unit should not be overloaded with personnel or equipment. Here, again, the manufacturer’s 

recommendations must be carefully followed. Officers and crew should be aware of the effect of platformpipe 

operation on the allowable loading of the unit. Personnel should leave the unit before the pipe is 

charged, if this is necessary to prevent overloading. 

Rescue 

Whatever the reason, the aerial unit should be used for rescue when people are within its reach. If possible 

in such cases, the apparatus should be positioned for rescue on arrival. 

1. Spotting the Turntable 

The goal is to get the turntable into a position that will allow the aerial unit to be used most 

effectively. For rescue, the best position depends on the number and locations of victims and on 

the wind direction. 

In some cases, the aerial if positioned at the corner of a building to permit coverage of two sides, 

for example, the front and one side, at the same time. This action also places the Ladder/Truck in a 

safer position in the event of structural collapse. 





2. Raising the Aerial Unit 

Once the apparatus is spotted and stabilized, the aerial unit is raised toward the victims who are in 

the most danger. 

An attempt should be made to establish visual or verbal contact with occupants who must await 

rescue while others are being removed. 

An aerial platform is normally extended so it finally moves horizontally toward the window sill or 

balcony railing, or up to it from below. These approaches cannot be used for rescue, because even 

those victims who are about to be removed from the building might attempt to jump down or 

across to the aerial unit before it is in place. 

When distance and height factors permit, the aerial unit must first be raised well above the victims. 

Then, the basket should be dropped down to the victims in the final approach. The platform will 

not be approaching from below or be level with the victims until the last few seconds before they 

can reach it. 

3. Placing the Platform 

During the final approach to the victims, the top rail of the basket should be placed carefully with 

respect to windows, fire escapes, and balconies. The placement should allow trapped occupants to 

climb onto the unit with maximum ease and safety. It should also ease the job of firefighters who 

are assisting or carrying victims onto the basket. 

a. Platforms 

The top rail of the basket should be placed about even with or slightly below a 

windowsill or a fire escape or balcony railing. Again, this will allow easiest and safest 

access to victims and to firefighters assisting them. 

When a balcony or fire escape is above the fire, the platform should be raised on the least 

exposed side, but the top rail of the basket should still be placed about even with the 

railing. 

4. Imperfectly Spotted Turntable 

It might be impossible to spot the turntable for a good final approach, especially to the side of a 

balcony or fire escape. Nevertheless, it should be spotted to allow as much as possible of the 

basket to make contact with the railing. This should also be attempted when the aerial unit will 

have to be moved, such as from one balcony to another. 

When only one corner of a basket will contact a balcony or fire escape, the top rail of the basket 

should be placed a bit higher than the balcony railing. Victims will then be able to get a good hold 

on the basket as they climb in. The operator should always assist them. 

a. Platforms 

At least one firefighter should be assigned to make sure trapped occupants do not 

overload the aerial platform by climbing into the basket all at once. 





Ventilation 

Windows on the top floor (and lower floors, if necessary) can be removed by a firefighter on the aerial unit 

or the platform pipe stream. 

1. Removing Windows 

One firefighter in a basket can quickly knock out a row of windows with a 6' or 8' pike pole. The 

firefighter should be secured to the basket side rail with a life belt. 

Use of a pike pole allows the firefighter on the basket to operate several feet from the window to 

be opened. The firefighter should be placed to one side of the window, about even with the sill. If 

wind is a factor, placement should be on the windward side, for protection from heat, smoke, 

gases, and falling glass. When more than one window must be opened and the wind is blowing 

across the face of the building, the first window opened should be the one furthest downwind. 

Moving from window to window into the wind allows the combustion products leaving the 

windows to be carried away from the firefighter, whose vision will not be obscured as it would be 

if upwind windows were opened first. 

2. Venting with Streams 

A platform pipe or a hand line can be used to knock out the windows. Solid streams should be 

used for this operation. The basket should be placed away from the building so that a firefighter on 

the aerial unit will not be endangered by flying glass or possible back draft. As before, the furthest 

leeward (downwind) window should be knocked out first if a wind is blowing across the face of 

the building. 

Hose Operations 

Aerial platforms can be used to great advantage in getting personnel and hose lines into the upper stories of 

a building. 

An aerial platform can lift firefighters into the building, after which they can haul the hose up by rope. An 

aerial unit can be used to hoist firefighting lines, standpipe rolls or bags, and allied equipment to crews 

already in a building, and either unit may be used to place a line as a portable standpipe. 

1. Using Hose as a Portable Standpipe 

For this operation, the aerial platform is raised to a window or balcony. Hose that has been carried 

or lifted into the building is connected into the platform’s 2-½ inch outlet or master-stream nozzle 

connection. The hose can then be used by Engine crews within the building. 

These operations can be carried out with a water thief. This appliance will permit the use of one 2- 

½ inch or two 1-¾ inch lines for fire attack. 

A “portable standpipe” will increase the effectiveness of standpipe firefighting operations when 

the fire floor is not more than two or three stories above the maximum reach of the aerial unit. 

Aerial hose operations, in general, promote cooperation and coordination between Ladder/Truck 

and Engine Companies. 





Ground Ladders 

Ground Ladder Operations 

Within their height and personnel limitations, ground ladders can be effective in a number of firefighting 

operations. Some of their uses are the same as those of aerial units, but others are unique, including: 

1. Gaining access to the fire building and exposed buildings. 

2. Advancing hose lines when stairways are being used by people escaping the building. 

3. Replacing damaged stairways. 

4. Removing trapped victims. 

5. Removing people from crowded fire escapes. 

6. Getting from one roof level to another. 

7. Bridging fences, narrow walkways, courts, and alleys. 

8. Forcing entrance through inward-opening doors, display windows, and their enclosures. 

9. Ventilating, by knocking out store, apartment, and office windows; by knocking out the glass or 

transom below a skylight; and by pushing down ceilings from above. 

10. Transporting the injured. 

11. Reinforcing weakened building features. 

a. Handling Ground Ladders 

The method used in a particular instance should be the one that requires the least 

maneuvering and the least time. 

Some ladder manufacturers specify where the fly section of an extension ladder should be 

(toward the building or away from it) when the ladder is raised. These recommendations 

should be followed. If the manufacturer makes no recommendation, position the fly 

section on the outside, away from the building, for maximum safety in handling. This 

places the halyard between the ladder and the building, so the ladder will move toward 

the building as the halyard is pulled to extend it. 

The climbing angle is determined by the height of the raise and the distance from the butt 

to the building. The butt-to-building distance should be one-quarter of the height of the 

raise (not one-quarter of the ladder length.) 





b. Safety 

Truck crews raising ground ladders should be careful of overhead obstructions, especially 

electric wires. They should watch the tip of the ladder, not the butt, as they are raising it. 

A ground ladder should not be overloaded. At normal climbing angles, firefighters should 

be at least ten (10) feet apart on the ladder. If the climbing angle must be decreased for 

some reason, the distance between those on the ladder should be increased to twenty (20) 

feet. Firefighters carrying hose up a ground ladder should be at least twenty (20) feet 

apart, at any climbing angle. Once a ladder has been used to enter a building, it shall be 

left in place as an exit, unless it is required for rescue at a nearby location. It should then 

be returned to its original position as soon as the rescue has been affected. 

Rescue 

Ladders can be placed at windows, fire escapes, or balconies so occupants can climb down or be carried 

down. 

No matter how ground ladders are to be used for rescue, the first ladders should be raised to the victims in 

most danger. Observation of the fire situation will indicate where the first ground ladders should be raised. 

1. The Normal Raise 

It is important that the ladder crew select a ladder of the proper length for the raise. 

As a ground ladder is raised for rescue, it must be kept out of the reach of people who are to be 

removed. This is especially necessary when the ladder is being raised past some victims in order to 

reach others on the floor above. The ladder should be raised in a vertical position away from the 

building, pivoted, extended if necessary, the tip lowered to the victims, and the butt quickly moved 

to proper position. 

When a ground ladder is placed at a window for rescue, the tip should be at or just over the level 

of the sill. 

In placing a ground ladder at the front railing of a balcony or fire escape, or at the wall beside 

either or these features, two (2) to four (4) rungs should extend above the railing to provide a good 

handhold for victims climbing onto the ladder and for firefighters working with victims. Ladders 

raised to a roof should also extend two (2) to four (4) rungs above the roof wall for the same 

reason. 

2. Ground Ladders as Exits 

If ground ladders will reach to floors being searched for victims, they should be raised as exits for 

firefighters with victims and as emergency exits. This should be done even if firefighters engaged 

in search have entered the building through interior stairways. 

Exit ladders should be raised at corridor windows if their locations are known. 





3. Bridging 

Ventilation 

Ground ladders can be placed horizontally to bridge the space between two buildings or between 

two sections of a single building, over an alley, walkway, narrow court, or air shaft. Either straight 

or extension ladders can be used for bridging. 

When a ladder is being hoisted with a rope, the rope should be tied several rungs below the top. 

These rungs will extend above the window sill or roof top, allowing Truck crews to get a good 

hold on the ladder. 

Either straight or extension ladders may be used to knockout windows for venting. An extension ladder is 

extended to the proper length, pulled back, and then pushed through the window. 

Advancing Hose Lines 

1. Placing Ladders 

Ground ladders should be placed where they will be of use in the overall fire ground operation, for 

advancing initial attack lines, backup lines, or lines that might be used to cover interior and 

exterior exposures. Initial size-up by Ladder/Truck Officers will indicate where Engine 

Companies may have to enter the building. Ladders should be raised at these positions on arrival 

for a potential secondary means of egress. 

Ground ladders should not be raised simply as an exercise, since this could delay other important 

Ladder/Truck operations. It is wasteful to raise a ladder where it obviously will not be needed, but 

is just as wasteful not to raise a ladder where it might be needed. Occasionally, a properly 

positioned ladder will not be needed by Engine crews, possibly because the fire was quickly 

controlled from other positions, but this should not deter Ladder/Truck Companies from placing 

ground ladders in similar positions at future fires where the ladders could be crucial. 

Ladder/Truck crews should avoid placing ladders in front of building entrances, where firefighters 

entering the building, or occupants leaving it, could inadvertently move it out of a safe position or 

knock it down. The ladder might also interfere with traffic moving through the entrance. 

If hand lines become tangled in the butt, attempts to free them will delay fire attack and could 

require the 

ladder to be repositioned. 





2. Climbing Ladders 

Firefighters carrying lines should be at least twenty (20) feet apart as they climb a ground ladder. 

If the ladder was raised at a less than normal angle, this distance should be increased. 

Positioning Firefighting Streams 

Ground ladders can be used to hold and position streams being directed into a building. 

In the first method of placing ladders for this purpose, the ladder is positioned and used to knock out a 

window. The topmost three (3) or four (4) rungs are allowed to extend over the sill and into the window as 

the window is being removed. The line is then carried up and tied to the ladder so the stream will be 

directed through the window opening. The nozzle is opened and the stream directed onto the fire. 

In the second method, the ladder is raised over the window with the tip placed against the wall above it. 

Sometimes the tip is placed on the sill or into the next higher window. 

Again, a line is carried up, tied to the ladder, and directed onto the fire. In either case, the ladder should be 

tied to the building if at all possible. If the ladder is in a window, a tie-in with a rope hose tool will suffice. 

If the ladder is against a wall, a pike pole can be placed across the inside of a lower window, tied to a rung, 

and pulled tight against the inside wall. Whenever possible, the ladder should be braced by firefighters at 

the butt, whether tied in or not. 

The hose line should be tied to the ladder with a rope hose tool or strap in a manner that will allow the rope 

to absorb some of the reaction of the line when the nozzle is opened. 

Covering weakened Areas 

Ground ladders may be placed over building features weakened by fire or by firefighter operations, to allow 

safe passage. 

A ground ladder also can be placed over a weakened or suspect area of a roof or floor to allow crews to 

work safely in that area. Each end of the ladder must be supported by a solid part of the roof or floor. 

Salvage 

There are two types of salvage operations, those that protect the contents of a building, and those that 

protect the building itself from structural damage due to the weight of the water. The first mainly entails the 

proper placement of salvage covers to protect contents and catch water. The second requires that water be 

removed from the building before it overloads the structure. 

1. The main objective of salvage is to protect the building and its contents from water damage; the 

main objective of overhaul is to make sure the fire is completely out. 

2. Salvage operations should be started as soon as fire attack begins, or as soon thereafter as possible; 

overhaul operations are not started until the fire is apparently extinguished. 





The type of salvage operations required in a particular building will depend to some extent on its 

construction. 

Size-up of the fire situation will indicate which salvage operations should be initiated first, and where. 

Salvage should begin along with fire attack. That is, the building and its contents should be protected from 

water damage when water is first directed into the building. 

Protecting Building Contents 

Building contents are protected mainly by covering them to keep them from being damaged by water and 

debris. The flow of excess water should be directed away from stock, furnishings, and equipment. 

1. Covering Building Contents 

Salvage covers should first be spread over the building contents that are in the most danger of 

being damaged by water. Once the contents of this area are well protected, covers should be 

placed on the contents of surrounding areas. Cover the items that could suffer the most water 

damage because of either their position or their value. 

2. Catchalls 

Salvage covers can be rigged as basins, generally referred to as “catchalls,” to catch and hold 

water dripping from a ceiling. Catchalls are effective in keeping moderate amounts of water off 

building contents, and in preventing water from moving around the floor or seeping down to lower 

floors. 

Removing Water from Buildings 

Ladder/Truck Company personnel must remove water before it causes extensive damage or causes the 

building to collapse. 

1. Chutes 

2. Drains 

3. Toilets 

Chutes can be used to direct water from one floor out through the window (or other openings) of 

the floor below. 

Floor and wall drains can be used if they are located fairly close to the accumulations of water. 

Water should not be moved very far across floors if this can be avoided. 

A toilet can be unbolted from the floor and lifted out of place and can be used to remove much 

water quickly from nearby areas if the drain is kept from clogging. Ceilings below the toilet 

should be checked for leakage. 

4. Sewer Pipes 

Sewer pipes provide another effective means for removing large quantities of water. 





Elevated Streams 

Occasionally, a hand line will suffice for elevated stream development. 

To maximize effectiveness, a platform pipe should be equipped with solid-stream nozzles of several 

diameters and at least one large-caliber for nozzle. This will allow firefighters to develop the proper stream 

for any combination of fire situation, weather conditions, and water supply. 

Setting Up the Aerial Pipe 

Platform pipes can be used for direct fire attack, exposure protection, or a combination. If possible, the 

apparatus should be positioned with regard to both wind direction and the location of the fire and 

exposures. A water supply must be developed and connected to the aerial pipe. 

1. Spotting the Turntable 

In regards to the placement of pumpers and other apparatus, it may be impossible or impractical to 

reposition the Ladder/Truck; the pipe would then be operated as effectively as possible from its 

original position. 

If it is feasible to quickly move the Ladder/Truck to a more advantageous position, this should be 

done. However, in some situations aerial pipe operations will begin upon arrival on the fire 

ground. Then the turntable should be spotted for maximum effectiveness. 

a. Buildings 

For maximum coverage the turntable should usually be spotted at a corner of the fire 

building. If the building is fairly wide, the unit should be spotted in the middle of the 

involved area. 

b. Open Storage Areas 

The turntable should be spotted at the center of the fire area for maximum coverage of the 

fire and nearby exposures. 

Aerial turntables should be spotted at the flanks of the fire, between the main body of fire 

and exposures. The units should not be positioned directly in the path of the fire. 

The turntables should be spotted either behind or at the flanks of the advancing 

firefighters. The aerial platform should be raised over the crew and streams directed just 

ahead of them as they advance. 

2. Developing the Water Supply 

The aerial-pipe water supply is most often developed in cooperation with Engine Companies. 

3. Platform Pipes 

The pipe should be charged before the basket is moved toward the fire. The platform pipe stream 

and the spray system under the basket will then be available to protect firefighters in the basket 

(and the apparatus) if fire should issue toward the unit. In addition, each firefighter in the basket 

should wear a life belt connected to a side rail. 



Aerial Streams for Fire Attack 



Aerial streams must reach into the seat of the fire. To make sure that the streams do reach the fire, 

Ladder/Truck crews must use the proper nozzles and place the streams properly for the fire situation and 

weather conditions. 

1. Nozzles 

Fog streams are the more effective of the two in fire attack if they can reach the seat of the fire. 

However, solid streams have a longer reach and so can penetrate further into a building and 

through to the seat of a fire. Thus, if the aerial unit can be placed so that a fog stream will reach 

into the fire, the aerial pipe should be fitted with a fog nozzle; otherwise, use a solid stream 

nozzle. 

2. Weakened Structures 

If the structure shows signs of having been weakened by the fire, or chimneys, roof-mounted 

billboards or other features seem ready to collapse, the aerial unit must be moved back away from 

the building. 

3. Shutdown 

Aerial streams should be used only as long as fire, steam, or white smoke is visible in the area 

covered by the stream. The steam and white smoke indicate that the stream is hitting the fire. 

When they are no longer visible, the fire has apparently been put out in that area, and the streams 

should be shut down. Continued operation would only add to the water load in the building and to 

the strain on the water supply system. 

4. Improper Use of Streams 

An incorrectly used aerial stream can cause unnecessary property loss and can result in injury to 

firefighters. The two most common errors are directing streams through roof holes and directing 

them toward firefighters advancing interior hand lines. 

a. Roof Holes 

Aerial streams should not be directed into a hole burned through the roof or opened for 

venting. 

When a roof (or a good portion of it) collapses, it could be that only aerial streams are 

able to control the fire in the area of the collapse. An aerial stream can be used in such a 

situation because, usually, the roof hole will be large enough so the stream does not 

interfere with the venting action. 

b. Interior Hand Lines 

Aerial streams should not be directed into a building area in which crews are operating 

with hand lines. Aerial streams may in danger firefighters on the interior lines by pushing 

heat, smoke, and fire back into the building. 

When properly coordinated, aerial streams can be used in conjunction with hand lines. 





Aerial Streams for Exposure Coverage 

Exposure protection is second only to rescue as a basic firefighting objective. 

1. Exposure Hazards 

Ladder/Truck Officers and crews, as well as Engine Company personnel, must be familiar with 

potential exposure problems; conditions that promote the exterior spread of fire. 

2. Exposure Protection 

Exposure fires can be caused by radiated heat, convection, or a combination. Properly located and 

operated aerial streams do much to protect against this exterior fire extension. When a choice must 

be made, lee-side exposures should be protected first, before exposures on the windward side are 

covered. 

a. Choosing the Stream 

Fog streams are more effective than solid streams for exposure protection, provided they 

can reach the area to be protected. If not, solid streams should be used. 

b. Directing the Stream 

Elevated Hand Lines 

The stream must be directed onto the surface of the exposure in such a way that the water 

washes down its sides. Only then will the water absorb heat from the exposure and keep 

it from igniting. 

If an aerial pipe cannot be positioned to cover the unprotected part of the exposure, other 

heavy streams or hand lines must be used. In many cases, a combination of aerial 

streams, other heavy streams, and hand lines will be required for complete exposure 

coverage and fire control. 

In some situations, an elevated stream, but not a heavy stream, is required. Hand lines should be operated 

from an aerial ladder or platform in these cases. 

Do not raise the platform until all personnel are secured to a railing with a life belt. 

Control of Utilities 

To minimize or eliminate problems, it is important to monitor and control the utilities within the fire 

structure. This job is usually assigned to Ladder/Truck Company personnel. 

Pre-fire Planning for Utility Control 

Ladder/Truck Companies should become aware, through pre-fire planning, of any unusual utility systems 

within their territory. They should also have a thorough understanding of the hazards associated with each 

type of utility. 





Operating Controls 

Utilities are controlled through power switches and shut-off valves. Firefighters must be familiar with the 

various kinds of operating controls. In particular, they should be fully aware of what these controls will do 

when activated or deactivated. 

During pre-fire planning, Ladder/Truck crews should familiarize themselves with the locations of power 

switches and shut-off valves, and determine whether each of these devices controls all or part of its utility 

system. 

Ladder/Truck Company personnel should have a good idea where these controls will be found, when 

needed. 

Heating Units and Fuels 

1. Gas 

A gas supply or outlet threatened by fire should be closed off at the source to prevent ignition or 

explosion. Ladder/Truck Company personnel should be familiar with the locations of inside and 

outside shut-off valves and street valves. 

2. Bottled Gas 

It is important that Ladder/Truck Company personnel be familiar with any such installations in 

their territory. Truck crews must be able to locate and close off the appropriate valves quickly 

when the fire situation requires such action. 

Electric Service 

When a working fire is encountered, officers must consider shutting down the electric service in the 

involved area or in the entire structure. The best way to prevent injury from electric shock is to shut down 

the electric service in the fire building. 

The electric service in a fire building can be used by firefighters to power portable lights, fans, and 

electrically operated tools. When the condition of the building indicates that electric features might 

endanger firefighters, the electricity should be shut off in the fire area or, if necessary, in the entire 

building. 

Main Power Switches 

a. Dwellings 

The modern electric service to a one or two-story family dwelling can be shut off completely by 

pulling (removing) the electric meter using an approved removal tool. Service to particular areas 

of the house can be shut off at the fuse box or circuit breaker box. Firefighters should first attempt 

to shut off power using the Main breaker in the breaker box before removing the electric meter. 





b. Commercial and Industrial Structures 

A main power switch and several sectional switches allow the power to be cut either completely or 

selectively. 

The Incident Commander should notify Cleveland Utilities or Volunteer Electric to cut power to 

commercial and industrial structures. 

c. Elevators 

Water Pipes 

The main power switch for the elevators is located near them, usually in the basement. The power 

to the elevators should only have to be cut off when the fire has control of the elevator shafts or 

the motor house, usually located on the roof. 

Ladder/Truck Companies should maintain control of both the water system and the power system. A 

damaged water system should be shut down as soon as possible in order to minimize problems due to 

excessive water or freezing and to reduce the extent of required salvage operations. This task may require 

notification of the local water district authority. 

Overhaul 

The main purpose of overhaul is to make certain that no trace of fire remains to re-kindle after the fire force 

has left. A second purpose is to leave the structure in as safe a condition as possible, especially if it is to be 

partially or completely occupied soon after the fire. Firefighters must protect undamaged goods and 

furnishings as part of these operations. 

Debris that could be dangerous to occupants or which must be examined during overhaul should be 

removed from the building. 

Two procedures can help reduce the frequency of injury during overhaul: (1) pre-inspection by Officers and 

(2) assignment of fresh or rehabilitated personnel (if available) to overhaul duties, along with proper 

control of these personnel. 

A. Pre-Inspection 

Before any firefighters are sent into a building for overhaul operations, the fire area must be 

checked thoroughly. 

The purpose of the inspection is to make sure that the area in which overhaul operations will be 

conducted is safe. The inspecting Officer(s) should see to it that holes in the flooring are safely 

covered or barricaded, that unsafe stairways are marked of roped off, that structurally unsound 

areas of the building are marked in an obvious way, and that portable lights are placed in dark and 

dangerous locations. Hand lines should be established to extinguish any fire that might be rekindled, 

and some Ladder/Truck crews should remain on the scene to assist Engine Companies. 





B. Personnel 

Overhaul operations should be assigned to Ladder/Truck Company members who were not 

directly engaged in firefighting operations (if available). Crews arriving on their own (late-arriving 

off-duty personnel) are candidates for overhaul duties. If necessary, fresh Ladder/Truck crews 

should be called to the fire scene for overhaul. 

1. Control of Personnel Movements 

No one should be permitted to enter the fire building without first reporting to the 

Incident Commander or Sector Officer. Firefighters entering the building without 

reporting may find themselves in serious trouble if no one knows that they are inside. 

Nobody should enter the building if not wearing protective clothing. No one should ever 

be allowed to enter a structure alone. 

Overhaul operations should be assigned to Ladder/Truck Companies as a whole or to 

members formed into groups. These Companies or groups, and not individuals, should be 

assigned areas in which to operate. If possible, each group should have a guide who is 

familiar with the situation inside the building. The groups should maintain contact with 

each other and with the Officer(s) in charge of the overhaul operation. 

2. Work Assignments 

C. Procedure 

The basic duty of Ladder/Truck crews in the overhaul operations is to find existing 

embers, sparks, and fire, and to check for fire extension. Engine Company personnel 

advance and handle the lines needed to extinguish and embers or small fires that 

Ladder/Truck Company personnel may find. 

Ladder/Truck crews should be assigned to the areas above, below, and around the fire 

area, to check for fire spread that has not yet been detected. Engine crews should be 

called to these areas only if a hot spot is discovered. Jobs that are neither Truck work nor 

Engine work should be shared. 

Concealed horizontal and vertical spaces should be checked, whether or not they were opened 

during fire attack and exposure protection operations. Portable lights are of great help in 

examining concealed spaces or any areas that may have to be opened up. They also show up 

smoke that otherwise might not be seen. 





1. Areas of Possible Re-Kindling 

a. Walls and Ceilings 

b. Shafts 

If walls or ceilings have been in contact with fire and heat, they must be opened 

and checked for signs of fire. If they have been partially opened in the course of 

firefighting operations, they should be opened further until the full extent of the 

fire is found. 

Engine crews should be called to wet down any suspicious spots or areas with a 

light stream, and Ladder/Truck crews should check adjoining ceilings and walls. 

Cutting during overhaul should be done with power saws rather than with axes 

and other hand tools. The saws cause much less vibration than hand tools and 

thus allow firefighters a greater margin of safety. This is especially important in 

a building that has suffered structural damage and requires extensive overhaul 

work. 

When Ladder/Truck crews suspect or find that fire has spread into a vertical 

shaft, the shaft must be opened and checked. 

c. Cabinets and Compartments 

Check for fire extension around built-in cabinets and compartments located over 

or near fire areas. If such cabinets have been subjected to fire or intense heat, 

they must be thoroughly checked during overhaul, whether or not they were 

opened previously. 

d. Window and Door Facings 

When it is apparent that fire has involved window or door facings, Truck crews 

should remove the facings and check the concealed recessed for fire. If fire 

extension is found when the facings are removed, the walls or partitions must be 

opened to the end of the fire travel, and the area wet down as needed. 

e. Basement Areas 

When fire has directly involved a basement or cellar, the area must be checked 

completely, the same as any other area of the fire building. Even when a 

basement area has not been involved, check there for fire that might have fallen 

from upper levels. 

Party walls between adjoining structures also must be examined carefully. Both 

sides of such walls must be checked. 





2. Chemicals and other Hazards 

Firefighters should ascertain, prior to overhaul, what chemicals and flammable liquids are 

kept in storage areas. 

Care must be exercised during all firefighting operations in this type of occupancy. 

Especially during overhaul, attention must be paid to labels on containers and to signs 

posted in and around the fire structure. 

Protective clothing is essential for all firefighters engaged in overhaul. 

Helmets, eye shields, coats, gloves, and boots should be worn for protection from 

dangerous chemicals. Self-contained breathing apparatus should be worn in hazardous 

atmospheres; nonpoisonous chemicals can leak, mix, and form poisonous fumes in areas 

where firefighters do not expect them. 

Radioactive materials might be stored in some occupancies, their presence not known 

until the overhaul operation has begun. When such material is discovered, the area should 

be cleared, and the health department or other government agency responsible for dealing 

with such materials should be notified. Take readings to determine the intensity of 

radioactive emissions. Firefighters must be carefully and thoroughly checked. 

If they have been exposed to excessive radiation, proper medical attention must follow, 

and their gear and tools must be decontaminated according to standard procedures. 

3. Searching for the Cause of Fire 

One important part of overhaul is the discovery and preservation of evidence of arson. 

When Truck Company personnel jump into overhaul without checking the fire building 

for such signs, the evidence might accidentally be thrown out of the building, buried, or 

washed away. 

4. Restoration and Protection 

When overhaul operations have been completed, the building and its contents should be 

restored and protected, as much as possible, from the elements and from vandalism. 

a. The Building 

Openings in roofs can be covered with salvage covers, tar paper, or plastic, 

depending of their size. 





b. Furnishings and Stock 

Items removed from the building during the course of firefighting operations or 

during overhaul should be returned to the building it possible. If the items must 

remain outside, place salvage covers over them. When items that are returned to 

the building could be subjected to damage from dripping water or weather, these 

items also should be covered. If the building cannot be locked securely, make 

arrangements for security or for a release of responsibility. Where valuable 

personal items have been identified, the Cleveland Police or Sheriff’s 

Department shall be notified to provide security for those items if they cannot be 

placed in the possession of the owner. 





Training Division 

The role of the Training Division is to ensure the mission of the Cleveland Fire Department is 

accomplished in a safe and efficient. The Training Division will coordinate the training needed to improve 

the department’s ability to handle a multitude of tasks that we are faced with in the course of our day to day 

operations in an efficient and safe manner. This training includes reviewing basics, exploring new 

techniques and ideas, and learning to apply these lessons in the field. This will be accomplished through 

classroom sessions and practical hands-on application on the training ground. 

All Fire Department personnel shall participate in a minimum of 240 hours of training annually, which is 

recommended by the Insurance Service Office (ISO). 

The goal of the Training Division, in conjunction with the Training Committee, is to provide training that 

meets NFPA, OSHA, and the Tennessee Commission on Fire Fighting standards and regulations. 

The Training Committee shall approve all applications for both practical and written examinations that are 

administered by the Tennessee Commission on Fire Fighting. 

The Training Committee will administer a, Fire Department approved, practical and written examination to 

ensure prerequisite knowledge and skills of the applicant before being allowed to challenge the Fire Fighter 

I or II, Pumper/Driver Operator, Fire Apparatus Operator, Aerial Apparatus Operator, Fire Instructor I, and 

Fire Officer I certification tests. 

The Training Committee shall approve the schedule and course content for all recruit training and make 

recommendations for all other personnel training content. 

State Certification testing procedures 

1. Contact your shift Training Committee member for an application 

2. Document prerequisite requirements in Firehouse Software 

3. Obtain written recommendation from your Training Committee member 

4. Complete in-house practical and written test 

5. Complete and submit appropriate paper work four (4) weeks before test date 



Practical Requirements 



Candidates may challenge the level(s) of State Certification upon successful completion of all appropriate 

practical requirements. 

Pumper/Driver Operator, Fire Apparatus Operator and Aerial Apparatus Operator 

1. All candidates must complete a minimum of 35 hours of actual driving time. This is to include; 

a. 20 hours driving an engine/pumper/tanker 

b. 10 hours driving and manipulating an aerial device 

c. 5 hours driving an apparatus with a manual transmission (if available) 

2. All candidates must complete a minimum of ten (10) of pump training (actual time pumping an 

apparatus). It is recommended that at least two (2) different apparatuses be used to complete this 

requirement. 

Successful completion of Beginning Pump class (24 hours), Advanced Pump class (24 hours), and 

Aerial Apparatus class (24 hours). 

Complete in-house practical with your training committee member. 

Fire Department Instructor I 

1. Candidate must, submit for pre-approval, all subject material to be presented for the practical 

Candidate will present a one (1) hour class of instruction. This is to include the Four Step Method 

of Instruction. Preparation (preparation of students), Presentation (classroom presentation, 

instructional material, communication, and safety), Application (student application of learning 

and feedback), Evaluation (testing and evaluation). 

Candidate will incorporate the proper use of audio visual equipment, teaching aids, demonstration 

devices and instructional material employed in training programs. 

Candidate will conduct a “hands-on” training drill at the end of the classroom session. 

Candidate will require the completion of a written examination upon completion of all instruction. 

OR 

Successful completion of Fire Instructor I (FI101) offered by the Tennessee Fire and Codes 

Academy. 





Fire Officer I 

1. Candidate must complete a student workbook that can be obtained from the Training Division. 

Candidate must successfully complete a written examination upon completion of the workbook. 

Candidate must complete an audio/visual assignment and on paper or in digital format a written 

assignment that provides feedback on the subject matter and any lessons learned from the 

assignment. The format is to be: size 12 Times New Roman font, fully justified, a minimum of 

500 words and the use of proper spelling and grammar. 

OR 

Successful completion of the Fire Officer I (FO201, FO202, FO203, FO204) series offer by the 

Tennessee Fire and Codes Academy. 





Rescue Operations 

Purpose 

To provide a policy regarding search and rescue operations at structural assignments. 

Objective 

To provide a guideline for rescue personnel to follow in conducting search and rescue operations at 

structural assignments. 

Scope 

All Cleveland Fire Department personnel shall adhere to these guidelines. 


The Incident Commander and the Company Officers are responsible for enforcing this policy. 

Policy 

A. The rescue of incident victims and their safety is the number one (1) tactical priority in all 

situations. 

B. The Incident Commander and Company Officers shall conduct rescue operations using their 

training and good judgment as not to place victims or rescue personnel in unnecessary danger. All 

available safety equipment and procedures must be used at all times. 

C. At the beginning of each Shift, personnel shall check all equipment for proper operation. 

Equipment missing or not capable of proper operation shall be reported to the Battalion 

Commander of Shift OIC. 

D. If sufficient personnel are not available to conduct rescue operations, the Incident Commander 

shall turn in a “SPECIAL ALARM” and request additional Engine or Ladder/Truck Companies, 

Bradley County Fire/Rescue and/or Tri-State Mutual Aid. 

E. If victims are apparent, the Incident Commander shall immediately direct available Fire 

Department members to begin initial medical treatment and request Bradley County EMS to 

respond. 

Procedure 

A. Rescue must always be the first tactical priority. 

B. Rescue operations shall not be allowed if it will create the likelihood of firefighter injuries or 

fatalities, and if there are no viable occupants to be saved.. 

C. If possible, Fire Department pre-fire plans shall be reviewed for building layout, hazards, potential 

occupant locations, etc. (This may be more effective for a secondary search). 





D. The Rescue Company shall utilize all information available to complete searches. This 

information may come from visual, reconnaissance, escaped occupants, bystanders, or pre-fire 

plans. 

E. The only way to be absolutely certain that the building is free of occupants is to conduct a 

thorough search. 

Primary Search 

A. Upon arrival, in every offensive firefighting situation, operating forces shall conduct a primary 

search of all involved and exposed areas, except in fully involved fires or when conditions are 

extremely marginal for occupant survival or when the potential for firefighter injury is extreme. 

B. The Rescue Company shall consist of at least two (2) firefighters. 

C. The Rescue Company shall be in full protective clothing and SCBA, and carry a flashlight, 

forcible entry tool, portable radio, and a 1 3/4 inch hand line. 

D. A second crew of a minimum of two (2) firefighters shall be placed at the same entry point for 

back-up protection before entry is made by the Rescue Company This crew shall wear all PPE and 

be equipped identically to the Rescue Company. ONLY IN KNOWN LIFE THREATENING 

SITUATIONS SHALL ANY FIRE DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL DEVIATE FROM THIS 

POLICY! 

E. Upon beginning a primary search, the Company Officer shall transmit by radio that the Primary 

Search is being conducted. Example –“Engine 3 is conducting a primary search on the first floor.” 

F. The Rescue Company shall make every effort to locate endangered occupants, protect those 

occupants, and remove them from direct contact with the fire and products of combustion. 

1. If the initial Company cannot complete the search, such as in the case of running out of 

breathing air, a Relief Company shall continue the search. 

2. This step will continue until the objective has been met, or fire conditions pose a threat 

sufficient to force the firefighters to withdraw. 

G. The search must be made floor by floor, room by room. All affected areas must be checked and 

marked in order to avoid missing any areas and to avoid duplication of effort. 

H. Attack plans and operations are always in the rescue mode until the primary search has been 

completed and the “ALL CLEAR” has been reported. 

I. The primary search will be indicated to be complete by an “ALL CLEAR” radio transmission 

from the Rescue Company Officer to Command. This strikes the first benchmark of signal of 

“ALL CLEAR.” Command will transmit the same report to the Communications Center. 





Rescue According to Stages of Fire 

There are three major fire situations that can be encountered in relation to rescue operations. Each of these 

situations requires a different rescue approach. 

A. Nothing Showing 

The Rescue Company can direct quick interior search to assure the safety of the occupants before issuing 

the “ALL CLEAR” signal. 

B. Smoke or Fire Showing 

Fire control efforts should be started at the same time as rescue efforts, to support the primary search. 

In this type of situation the Rescue Company must decide if they want to remove the fire from the 

occupants or the occupants from the fire. The Rescue Company must also realize that in some cases an 

Engine Company must protect escape routes for occupant removal, and in other cases an Engine Company 

may have to control the fire first to establish a safe escape route. 

Occupants should not be moved through fire or smoke filled areas if they are safer remaining in their rooms 

until the fire can be controlled. 

C. Fully Involved 

In situations where there is total involvement of the building or part of the building there may be no 

primary search due to the fire conditions making survival of any occupants in that area unlikely. In these 

cases Command should notify the Communications Center that there will not be a Primary Search, and as 

conditions permit later, a Secondary Search must be conducted for victims. 

Types of Occupants 

The Rescue Company must direct rescue operations based on the location of occupants relative to the fire. 

The closer the occupants are to the fire, the greater their danger. 

A. Escaped occupants outside the building must be considered by the Rescue Company. These 

persons must be treated and protected from further injury and kept from re-entering the building. 

B. Occupants trying to get out of the building must be assisted to safety. Occupants aware of the fire, 

but not in the greatest danger, may still jump or cause harm to themselves. While these people 

may not be the most threatened by the fire, the Rescue Company must direct efforts to these 

people to avoid them injuring themselves in attempts to escape the fire. 

The Rescue Company must also coordinate their efforts with the Engine Company to make sure 

fire is not pushed in the direction of escaping occupants. 

C. Occupants still in the building and unable to help themselves includes those trapped, unconscious, 

or otherwise unable to escape. Locating, protecting, and removing these occupants is the most 

difficult part of the rescue operation, and the primary search must be used to help these occupants. 





Rescue Priorities 

Rescue priorities should follow a definite order. The occupants most severely threatened should be 

removed first, then the largest numbers that have gathered in groups. The last group to be removed should 

be those in the remainder of the structure. 

Another common system of determining the sequence of occupant removal is to remove occupants in 

respect to fire behavior and avenues of heat and smoke travel. The Rescue Company must have a 

knowledge of fire behavior when planning for search and rescue operations. A plan of search and rescue 

can often be carried out by searching for occupants in the following sequence of locations: 

A. The fire area. 

B. The rooms directly above the fire room. 

C. The rooms adjacent to the fire room and the rest of the fire floor. 

D. The rest of the floor directly above the fire floor. 

E. The highest floor in the building. 

F. The rest of the floors above the fire. 

G. The rest of the floor below the fire floor. 

When possible, normal means of interior access should be used to remove occupants. These primary escape 

routes can include stairs, halls lobbies, and other common areas within the building. 

Exterior methods of access should be used only if primary escape routes are not available. Secondary 

escape routes include roofs, windows, fire escapes, ground ladders, aerial ladders, and elevating platforms. 

Secondary Search 

After a fire is controlled, Companies shall complete a thorough search of the fire area. This is called a 

Secondary Search. When possible, fresh or rehabilitated Companies should be used for the secondary 

search. This search is done very thoroughly, and time is less critical than that of a primary search. 

Also, in situations where the building is well involved on arrival and the survival of anyone still in the 

building is not likely, Command must indicate to the Communications Center that a primary search will not 

be made and that a secondary search will be made when conditions permit. Even though this will be the 

first search made, it is still considered a secondary search. 

Once the secondary search is complete, the Rescue Company shall transmit by radio to Command that the 

secondary search is “ALL CLEAR.” 

Should victims be located, the Rescue Company shall transmit by radio to Command that the secondary 

search is “COMPLETE” and victim(s) have been located and/or being removed. The Company Officer 

should meet face to face with Command to explain the details. 

Radio traffic should be limited in reference to fire victims. 





Sprinklers and Standpipes 

Purpose 

To provide a policy for Fire Company operations at buildings protected by fire sprinklers and equipped 

with standpipes. 

Objective 

To establish guidelines for supporting Fire Department Connections and operating from standpipes. 

Scope 

These procedures apply to all Engine Companies in reference to sprinkler and standpipe connections. 


It is the responsibility of the Incident Commander and the Company Officers to comply with this policy. 

Policy 

A. Upon Arrival 

B. Safety: 

1. Give conditions report. 

2. Continue size-up. 

3. Determine exact location of the fire. 

a. Check with occupants. 

b. Check enunciator panel (if available) 

c. Check for alarm bells ringing, which may indicate the involved zone. 

d. Check for water flowing from exterior drains, which may indicate the general 

area. 

4. Request that the second arriving Engine Company standby or hook up and pump to the 

Fire Sprinkler or Standpipe Connection. 

1. Use full protective clothing. 

2. Maintain tight control over personnel during interior operations. 

3. Use hose lines during interior search operations. 

4. No personnel shall use an elevator in any occupancy to gain access to a hose connection. 





C. Sprinkler Systems: 

1. The first Engine Company shall report to the nearest location to gain access to the fire 

area. 

2. The second Engine Company arriving should be prepared to connect lines from its 

Pumper to the Fire Department Connections. 

3. The minimum Fire Department hook-up to the Fire Department Connection should not be 

less than two (2), 3- inch hose lines. Fifty- (50) foot long is best in this situation. 

4. If a fire is in progress and sprinkler heads have opened, 150 pounds of pump discharge 

should be provided to the Fire Department Connection on commercial systems and 100 

pounds on residential systems. If long lines are required (over 100 hundred feet) between 

the Pumper and the Fire Department Connection, the friction loss in the hose must be 

considered in hydraulic calculations. 

5. Unless it is known for sure that private mains provide an adequate water supply, pumpers 

should be connected to the City hydrants, if available. A general rule is not to take 

suction from hydrants on a private system unless it is known that the system is adequate 

for the purpose. 

6. Send a firefighter, equipped with a portable radio, to inspect the shut-off valve to: 

a. Determine if the sprinklers are operating properly. 

b. Open the valve if it is closed. 

c. Shut off the valve promptly when the Incident Commander decides that 

sprinkler operations may be discontinued. 

d. Re-open the valve in the event that the fire re-kindles and cannot be controlled 

by those hand lines, which are already in place. 

7. Observe the effect of the sprinkler system of the fire to determine: 

a. If the system is operating properly. 

b. The size and number of hose lines that may be needed to effect complete control 

and extinguishment. 

8. Insure that evacuation, search, and other life safety measures are promptly completed at 

fires in sprinkled building. 





9. Effective control of fires in sprinkled buildings requires proper ventilation. Whether such 

ventilation is accomplished by conventional means or by utilizing on-site built-in 

automatic systems, the following steps must be accomplished: 

a. A firefighter equipped with a hand radio must be sent to the shut-off valve to 

stand by. 

b. Hose lines must be ready, charged, and in position for confinement and control 

before the sprinklers are shut off. 

c. Ladder/Truck Company personnel must be in position and should have affected 

the necessary conventional opening (s), or be prepared to initiate available onsite 

automatic systems, before the sprinklers are shut off. 

d. The Incident Commander must insure proper communications and coordination. 

e. When all of the above have been accomplished, the sprinkler system should be 

shut down (slowly) to allow proper ventilation to occur and to allow those 

members manning hand lines to move in and fully extinguish the fire. 

f. In the event that the hand lines are unable to affect control, the system should be 

turned on again until additional streams can be brought into position. 

10. Initiate prompt salvage and water removal operations to protect records, machinery, 

storage, stock, and furnishings from water damage. 

11. After fire operations are complete: 

a. Replace sprinkler heads with new heads (of the same temperature rating) found 

in the sprinkler box near the riser. This is usually done by a representative of the 

occupant (maintenance). 

b. Insure that the system is restored to service before securing from the scene. We 

will not attempt to restore a dry pipe system. 

c. If the system cannot be restored immediately, coordinate with management 

personnel to insure some type of protection system or guard service until the 

system can be restored. 




d. Hose and Appliances: 


1. The first line into the building shall be at least 150 feet of 13/4 inch 

hose with the appropriate nozzle, adapters, and spanner wrench. (The 

high-rise pack may replace this line.) 

2. The diameter of hose and those appliances may be dictated by the size 

and intensity of the fire. 

3. A 2-½ inch hose line with nozzle, adapters, and spanner wrench shall 

be available for backup. 

4. All attack lines shall be Fire Department hose and equipment. 

5. Personnel shall not use the hose connected to Class II or Class III 

standpipes. Disconnect the house hose in order to utilize the Fire 

Department hose. 

e. Standpipe Systems: 

When an occupancy is equipped with a standpipe system, Fire Department 

personnel should utilize the system to the best advantage in order to eliminate 

the need for excessively long hose lays. 

1. Where the standpipe system is independent and is also equipped with a 

Fire Department Connection support the system by pumping to the Fire 

Department Connection, providing a pressure of twenty-five (25) psi at 

the connection and five (5) psi per story for each floor above the 

ground level. In addition, hydraulic calculations must also be included 

for the hose line (s) being utilized off the standpipe outlet. 

2. Where the standpipe system is combined with the sprinkler system, 

support the appropriate Fire Department Connection with the standard 

pressure of 150 psi at the connection. 

3. Those members who are assigned to the interior attack team utilizing 

the standpipe outlet must be able to communicate with the pump 

operator supplying the system. 

4. Hi-Rise packs shall be used first when connecting to the standpipe 

system. 

5. When a line is connected to a standpipe outlet in a stairwell on the fire 

floor, the excess hose should be pulled up the stairway toward the next 

floor before it is charged. The hose will easily come down the stairs as 

the advance is made. 





6. It is obvious that the stairwell at the fire area is important for advancing 

lines to the fire floor. It is just as important to occupants of the building 

who may be using it for evacuation. Firefighters must be careful not to 

impede their progress and not to allow great volumes of smoke to get 

into the stairway. If another stairway, farther from the fire, is available, 

evacuees should be directed to it. 

7. If the outlet is in the corridors, the attack should begin from an outlet 

on the floor below the fire floor. The first line (or lines) should be 

advanced up a stairway to the fire floor. Most of the line should be 

taken up the stairs, so that it can more easily be advanced through the 

corridor of the fire floor. If required, additional lines may be taken up 

the stairs from still lower floors. This may also be necessary if the floor 

below the fire is untenable. 

8. If the fire is located some distance down the corridor from the stairway, 

the initial hookup may be made on the fire floor. However, this should 

not be attempted unless firefighters are certain that the fire is confined 

to a unit off the corridor, or at least is some distance from their point of 

entry to the fire floor. 





Chapter VI I 

Public Education 

Public Education Policy 

Purpose 

To provide a system whereby the Fire Department can meet the fire and safety educational needs of the 

citizens of Cleveland. 

Objective 

To establish a means of providing fire and safety education to the citizens of Cleveland and to evaluate 

future public fire and safety educational needs. 

Scope 

The Cleveland Fire Department will conduct classes for the public in those areas within the parameters of 

its activities and expertise. 


The Arson Investigator, Training Captain and Battalion Commanders shall be responsible for the 

scheduling of public education activities. 

Policy 

A. The Fire Department shall aggressively meet the educational needs of the citizens of Cleveland as 

they pertain to those subjects who are within the scope of the Department’s activities and 

expertise. 

B. The Fire Prevention Division shall anticipate future educational needs and prepare to meet those 

needs. 

Authority and Responsibilities 

A. The Arson/Fire Prevention Division shall be responsible for the overall public education effort of 

the Fire Department. 

B. The Arson/Fire Prevention Division shall be responsible for the following: 

1. Coordination with the Training Division on content and materials. 

2. Coordination of programs dealing with schools, except CPR and First Aid. 

3. Maintenance of records and reports for Public Education for the Monthly Report. 

4. Coordination of all class scheduling with the Battalion Commanders and Training 

Captain. 





Procedures 

A. The Battalion Commanders shall receive notification of all public education classes to be taught 

by Shift personnel. 

B. The information shall be passed to the Shift and Company Officers to handle the instructional 

assignments. 

C. All fire and safety educational materials will be provided by the Arson/Fire Prevention Division to 

meet the needs at hand and the current fire prevention campaign. 

Fire Prevention Week 

A. Special fire prevention education presentations offered in conjunction with Fire Prevention Week 

shall be scheduled by the Arson/Fire Prevention Division. 

B. All Fire Department personnel shall assist, as necessary, with Fire Prevention Week activities. 

Scheduling Tours 

Persons desiring to schedule group Station tours shall be directed to contact the Deputy Chief to schedule 

such tours. In his/her absence the on-duty Commander or Shift OIC shall do the scheduling. 





Visitors 

Purpose 

To establish guidelines concerning visitors to the Fire Stations and Fire Department facilities. 

Objective 

A. To allow visitors in Fire Department facilities within established guidelines. 

B. To insure that all visitors receive polite and professional treatment that presents the Cleveland Fire 

Department in a positive manner. 

C. To insure that visitors do not interfere in the day to day operations and activities of the Fire 

Department nor encroach upon the privacy of fire department members during their tour of duty. 

Scope 

These guidelines apply to all Fire Department facilities at all times. 


The Battalion Commander and Station Officer shall be responsible for the enforcement of this policy at all 

times. It is the responsibility of each member to conduct themselves in a professional and businesslike 

manner at all times and to insure that their visitors do not disturb Fire Department operations or other 

firefighters. 

Policy 

A. Visitors shall be acknowledged in a courteous and professional manner. Visitors seeking 

assistance shall be given help to the fullest extent of our ability and within our resources. 

B. Visitors shall be accompanied by a member of the fire department at all times. Station or 

Company Officers shall assign a company member the duty of escorting visitors about the 

premises. The member shall use discretion in escorting the visitor in portions of the facilities that 

contain dangerous conditions or may violate the privacy of on duty personnel. 

C. Visitors must leave Fire Department facilities once their business is concluded. Unauthorized 

loitering in and about Fire Stations and Fire Department facilities is prohibited. 

D. Extended visits or overnight stays at any Fire Department facility must be approved in writing by 

the Fire Chief in advance of the stay. 

E. All visitors shall remain in the place designated by the Station or Company Officer and shall not 

be involved in nor interrupt the activities of the men or women, including work assignments, 

training, eating meals, sleeping or any other activity, except in emergencies. Members shall be 

aware that failure to maintain acceptable standards or conduct shall subject them to disciplinary 

action. 

F. Visits shall be limited to one (1) hour unless approved by the Battalion Commander. 





G. Visitors are allowed only in public areas of the station. The bedroom area and Staff offices are not 

public areas. 

H. No unauthorized personnel shall be in the apparatus area unless accompanied by a member of the 

Fire Department. 

I. Visits after 2200 hours shall be allowed at the discretion of the Battalion Commander. Visits after 

2200 hours should be limited to business that is absolutely necessary to be conducted at that time 

and place. These visits to Fire Department facilities include parking lots and grounds. 

The Battalion Commander and Station Officers shall have the authority to make decisions regarding all 

activities in the Station House and shall exercise this authority, according to departmental policy, when 

necessary. 

Giving Directions 

Whenever a member of the general public comes into a Fire Station requesting directions, the on-duty Fire 

Department members shall be guided by the following: 

A. Give clear, concise directions. 

B. Obtain a city or county map to illustrate directions, if necessary. 

C. Members shall be helpful and courteous at all times. 





Fire Company Demonstrations 

Purpose 

A. To provide the public with information concerning Fire Department activities as they relate to the 

functions and duties of the Engine and Truck Companies. 

B. To provide the public with the opportunity to view a Fire Department Engine or Truck and to 

observe a demonstration of its operation and the operation of some of the fire company’s 

equipment. 

Objective 

A. To provide policy and guidelines relative to Fire Department Engine and Truck Company 

demonstrations. 

B. To provide an outline for conducting an Engine or Truck Company demonstration. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all members involved in conducting a Fire Department Company demonstration. 


A. Those members who conduct Fire Department Engine and Truck Company demonstrations shall 

conduct such demonstrations in a safe and efficient manner so as to prevent injuries to anyone 

present and so as not to place apparatus and/or equipment in a non-serviceable condition. 

B. Those members involved in conducting a Fire Department Company demonstration shall do so in 

a manner so as to promote a professional fire service image, good will, and good community 

relations. 

Policy 

A. The Fire Department shall provide Engine and Ladder/Truck Company demonstrations to 

members of the general public on both a scheduled and non-scheduled basis. 

B. The scheduling of Company demonstrations shall normally be handled by the Deputy Chief. Such 

scheduling shall be coordinated with the Fire Suppression Division via the Battalion Commander 

and the Company Officers. 

C. Battalion Commanders may schedule Pumper demonstrations for interested groups and/or 

individuals, providing that such demonstrations are to be conducted by their own Companies. 

When scheduling such demonstrations, Battalion Commanders shall coordinate with their 

Company Officers to avoid conflicts. 





Procedure 

The following is the recommended outline to be used when conducting a Fire Department Engine or 

Ladder/Truck Company demonstration. 

A. Location -- Locate apparatus with operator’s panel toward the group. 

B. Introduce all members participating in the demonstration. 

C. Explain the following basics: 

1. Type of apparatus (Engine or Ladder/Truck) 

2. Primary use of apparatus (Pumping water, elevated rescue). 

3. Equipment used on the particular apparatus (SCBA, axe, ladder). 

D. Allow some controlled hands-on 

E. Open the floor for any questions. 

F. Considerations: 

1. Contact an organization representative upon arrival for instruction on demo site. 

2. Wind direction (location of group, water mist travel). 

3. Water drainage. 

4. Ground conditions if Pumper is off the pavement. 

5. Check with representative for allotted program time. 

6. Arrive a minimum of ten (10) minutes prior to the scheduled program time. 





Station Tours 

Purpose 

A. To provide a means of public education and to promote positive public relations. 

B. To provide the general public with insight into the responsibilities and working routine of 

firefighters. 

C. To give Cleveland citizens a historical perspective of their Fire Department. 

D. To foster fire safety consciousness. 

Objective 

To provide policy and guidelines relative to fire station tours. 

Scope 

All Fire Department personnel shall adhere to this policy when conducting Station Tours. 


The Deputy Chief and the Battalion Commander/Shift OIC are responsible for the scheduling of Station 

Tours. 

Policy 

A. Normally, prearranged fire station tours shall be scheduled by the Deputy Chief. 

B. The Deputy Chief shall coordinate with the Battalion Commander of the affected fire suppression 

shift and/or Company (ies) when scheduling fire station tours. 

C. Fire suppression Officers may schedule station tours for their stations during their own shifts, 

subject to the approval of the Battalion Commander. 

D. Non-scheduled fire station tours, such as may occur when members of the general public request 

to view fire apparatus and equipment, shall be subject to the approval of the Battalion 

Commander/Shift OIC. If at all possible, every reasonable effort should be made to honor such 

citizen request. 





Procedure 

While conducting fire station tours, members shall be guided by the following: 

A. Members shall always behave in a courteous, helpful, and professional manner. 

B. Members shall remain with those persons on the tour and shall avoid taking them into possible 

areas of danger. 

C. Instructions should be given to those on the tour concerning what to do in case the fire company 

must leave on an emergency call. 

D. Fire station tours should cover the major points of interest, such as the following: 

1. The fire apparatus. 

2. The firefighting equipment. 

3. Protective clothing. 

4. The firefighters daily routine and duties. 

5. Training activities and facilities. 

6. Emergency response activities. 

7. Promote smoke detectors. 

8. Stop, Drop, and Roll techniques. 

9. Exit drills. 

10. How to use 911 

11. Don’t play with matches. 





Chapter VIII 

Records 

Open Burning and Burning Permits 

Purpose 

To provide a policy in compliance with the City of Cleveland’s Municipal Ordinances and the Standard 

Fire Prevention Code. 

Objective 

To establish guidelines for the issuance of burning permits. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all open burning within the City of Cleveland. 


A. The Fire Chief or his/her designee is responsible for issuing residential burning permits for within 

the city limits of Cleveland. 

B. The Fire Chief and/or his/her designee is responsible for issuing construction site burn permits. 

C. The Battalion Commanders are responsible for investigating complaints. 

D. The Fire Inspector is responsible for code enforcement, including permit compliance and the 

issuance of a summons. 

City Of Cleveland Ordinance 

Section 20-1101 Definitions 

A. “Open Burning” is the burning of any matter under such conditions that products of combustion 

are emitted directly into the open atmosphere without passing directly through a stack. Open 

burning includes, but is not limited to, fires located or burning in a pile on the ground, a barrel, a 

fire pit, or other semi-enclosure. The use of an air curtain destructor or air curtain incinerator is 

considered incineration and is not considered open burning. 

B. “Person” is any individual, partnership, co-partnership, firm, company, corporation, association, 

joint stock company, trust, estate, political subdivision, an agency, authority, commission, or 

department of the United States government, or of the State of Tennessee government; or any 

other legal entity, or their legal representative, agent or assigns. 





C. “Wood Waste” is defined as any product which has not lost its basic character as wood such as 

bark, sawdust, chips and chemically untreated lumber whose “disposition” by open burning is to 

solely get rid of or destroy. Plant life of a herbaceous nature, such as leaves, whether attached, 

fallen, and/or collected, evergreen needles and grasses, are not considered “wood waste”. 

Additionally, manufactured lumber products, such as plywood, fiberboard, particle board, and 

paneling, are not considered “wood waste”. Painted or artificially stained wood is not considered 

“wood waste”. 

Section 20-1102. Open burning prohibited. No person shall cause, suffer, allow, or permit open burning 

within the City limits of the City of Cleveland, except as set out in Section 20 1103 entitled “ Exceptions to 

prohibition on open burning”. 

Section 20-1103. Exceptions to prohibition on open burning. Open burning may be conducted under the 

following specified exceptions. This grant of exception shall in no way relieve the person responsible for 

such burning from the consequences, damages, injuries or claims resulting from such burning. Any 

exception to the open burning prohibition granted by this section does not relieve any person of the 

responsibility to obtain a permit which may be required by any other federal or state agency, or of 

complying with other applicable legal requirements, ordinances, or legal restrictions. In addition, the open 

burning of tires and other rubber products, vinyl shingles and siding, other plastics, asphalt shingles, and 

other roofing materials and/or asbestos containing materials, is expressly prohibited and such materials 

shall not be included in any open burning conducted under this sections.: 

1. Non-commercial fires used for cooking of food or for ceremonial, recreational or comfort-heating 

purposes, including barbeques, campfires and outdoor fireplaces; 

2. Fires set by or at the direction of the Cleveland Fire Department solely for training purposes; 

3. Fires consisting solely of vegetation grown on the property of the burn site or fires disposing of 

“wood waste” shall only be conducted as follows: 

a. At least one (1) person shall be constantly present at the burning during the entire time of 

the burn; 

b. Each burn shall not exceed more than 48 hours in duration; 

c. Burning under this subsection shall not occur more than twice in any thirty (30) day 

period; and 

d. The site of such burning is not nearer than one-half (1/2) mile to an airport, hospital, 

nursing home, school, federal or state highway, state forest, and/or occupied structures 

except structures as may be located on the same property as the burn site. 

e. Priming materials used to facilitate such burning shall be limited to #1 or #2 grade fuel 

oils. 





4. In addition, such burning may require an “air curtain destructor”, or other device if deemed 

necessary by the Fire Chief. 

5. Fires set at the direction of law enforcement agencies or courts solely for the purpose for 

destruction of controlled substances and legend drugs seized as contraband. 

6. Fires consisting solely of manufactured lumber products not chemically treated to prevent insect 

or rot damage, but subject to the following additional conditions: 

a. The site of such burning is not nearer than one-half (1/2) mile to an airport, hospital, 

nursing home, school, federal or state highway, state forest, and/or occupied structures 

except structures as may be located on the same property as the burn site. 

b. Priming materials used to facilitate such burning shall be limited to #1 or #2 grade fuel 

oils. 

c. The person responsible for such burning must certify compliance with the distance 

requirements by written statement. The certification must include the types and amounts 

of materials projected to be burned and must be delivered to the State of Tennessee, 

Department of Environment and Conservation/Division of Air Pollution Control ten (10) 

working days prior to commencing the burn. 

7. For any residential parcel o property located with the corporate limits of the City of Cleveland 

where the residential parcel is ten (10) acres or more in size and has a building located on the 

subject parcel with an appraised value for tax purposes of at least twenty-five thousand dollars 

($25,000.00), fires consisting solely of vegetation grown on the property of the burn site or fires 

disposing of “wood waste” solely for the disposition of such wood waste may be conducted, but 

subject to all of the following limitations and conditions: 

a. At least one (1) person shall be constantly present at the burning during the entire time of 

the burn. 

b. No burning under this subsection shall occur before 8:00 A.M. and all fires must be 

completely extinguished by no later than one (1) hour before sunset. 

c. Burning under this subsection shall not occur more than twice in any thirty (30) day 

period. 

d. Priming materials used to facilitate such burning shall be limited to #1 or #2 grade fuel 

oils. 

e. Burning under this subsection shall be limited to no more than a 300 cubic foot pile of 

vegetation or wood waste, with the further limitation that the content of a burn pile 

should not consist of predominantly trees that were felled by mechanical means. 

f. Burning under this subsection is only allowed on those residential parcels of property that 

are ten (10) or more acres in size which have a building located on the subject property 

with an appraised value for tax purposes of at least twenty-five thousand dollars 

($25,000.00) . 





g. For any burning under this subsection, a permit shall be required from the Fire 

Department. All request for Fire Department issued permits require a forty-eight (48) 

hour notice in advance prior to burning to allow ample time for inspection of the burning 

site. Burning permits issued under this subsection shall be revoked and/or will not be 

issued if the Fire Chief or his designee determines that the proposed burning is likely to 

cause a safety issue for the public. 

Section 20-1104. Authority to permit or prohibit open burning. The Fire Chief or his designee has the 

authority to permit open burning where there is no other practical, safe, and/or lawful method of disposal. 

The Fire Chief reserves the right to require any person to cease or limit open burning if emissions from the 

fire(s) are deemed by the Fire Chief or his designee as jeopardizing public health or welfare, creating a 

public nuisance or safety hazard, or likely to create a safety hazard. The Fire Chief or his designee shall 

otherwise have the authority to permit or prohibit open burning not specifically addressed in this chapter. 

Section 20-1105. Liability for damages and costs. If the Cleveland Fire Department responds to a fire 

cause by or that results from open burning and the city uses equipment and/or personnel from the city 

public works department and/or third parties to control and/or extinguish the fire, the person responsible for 

the fire shall be subject to a civil action to recover the city’s damages and costs, including the cost of using 

city equipment, incurred by the city to control or extinguish the fire. This remedy is in addition to any civil 

penalty set forth in Section 1106. 

Section 20-1106. Violations and penalty. In addition to any liability for damage or costs set forth in 

Section 20-1105, any person who violates this chapter shall be subject to civil penalty in an amount not to 

exceed fifty dollars ($50.00) for each violation. 

Complaints 

A. All complaints shall be handled under the authority of the Fire Chief and/or his designee. 

B. Complaints shall be directed to the Battalion Commander/ Shift OIC 

C. On any complaint received where there is potential for life or property being threatened, an Engine 

Company with a Company Officer shall be dispatched. The Battalion Commander/Shift OIC will 

also respond. 

D. Any complaint on a burn that does not meet the conditions for issuance of a permit or where there 

is a potential for life or property being threatened shall be extinguished. 

E. Fire Department personnel on the scene shall have the authority to carry out whatever actions are 

necessary to bring the incident under control. 





Investigations 

When an Engine Company arrives on the scene and a burn permit has not been issued, the following policy 

shall be followed. 

A. Any burn that will continue after dark shall be extinguished unless a permit has been issued to 

burn after dark. 

B. Any unattended burn shall be extinguished. 

C. Any burn that does not meet the conditions stated above may be extinguished. 

Permit Enforcement 

A. Permit enforcement falls under the code enforcement duties of the Fire Inspector(s). 

B. If the Battalion Commander has any resistance from anyone at the scene of an illegal burn, he 

shall immediately notify the Fire Inspector and/or the Cleveland Police/Sheriff’s Department. 





Incident Reporting 

Purpose 

To provide uniformity in recording all fire, emergency, and service calls. 

Objective 

To provide guidelines for filing incident reports. 

Scope 



It is the responsibility of the Incident Commander/Company Officer to complete the Incident Report. It is 

the responsibility of the Shift Commander/Shift OIC to review all reports for accuracy and information. 

Policy 

It is the policy of the Cleveland Fire Department to keep a formal record of all calls, emergency and nonemergency, 

made to assist or protect the citizens of Cleveland and Bradley County. 

Procedure 

A. A Fire Incident Report shall be filled out completely on all fire, emergency, non-emergency, and 

service calls to which the Cleveland Fire Department responds. This includes all Mutual Aid calls 

and calls in which the Cleveland Fire Department is requested to be on standby in-house for 

another department. 

B. Incident Reports shall include the name, address, and phone number of the owner and occupant 

when this information is available. 

C. A narrative that describes what took place at the incident shall be included. 

Hazardous Materials Incidents 

A. In order for the City to recover the costs associated with a hazardous materials incident, the 

Incident Report should contain a list of all materials used by the Department and/or its authorized 

agents in the incident. This list shall include any equipment or gear contaminated or damaged in 

the course of the incident. 

B. The name and mailing address of the person or company responsible for the incident shall also be 

provided on the incident report. 

1. Fixed Site Incident 

The name and mailing address (including state and zip code) of the business owner and 

of the person causing the incident. 





Promptness 

2. Transportation Incident 

The name and mailing address (including state and zip code) of the Carrier Company and 

of the driver. 

With the exception of actual fire incidents, incident reports shall be completed immediately upon returning 

to the Station. All incident reports must be completed before going off-duty. The Fire Department 

Administrative Assistant shall forward all reports to the State at the appropriate time. 





Chapter IX Health and Safety 

Vehicle Operations 

Purpose 

The purpose of this procedure is to assure the efficient response of personnel and apparatus to the scene of 

an emergency without danger to public or private property, or injury or death to civilians or Fire 

Department personnel. 

Objective 

To develop policies and procedures for the safe operation of all Fire Department vehicles. 

Scope 

This procedure shall apply to all Cleveland Fire Department personnel responding to any type of 

emergency in any type of vehicle. 


The Driver/Operator is responsible for the safety of all vehicle operations. The Engine Company officer is 

responsible for managing compliance of this procedure. 

Policy 

It is the policy of the Cleveland Fire Department to be in compliance with the Tennessee Motor Vehicle 

Laws that provides specific legal exceptions to regular traffic regulations that apply to Fire Department 

vehicles only when responding to an emergency incident. Authority to deviate from this procedure rests 

solely with the Company Officer, who bears full responsibility for the results of any deviation. 

Safe arrival will always have priority over unnecessary speed and reckless driving en route to an 

emergency incident. Prompt, safe response will be attained by: 

A. Leaving the station in a standard manner: 

1. Quickly mounting apparatus 

2. All personnel on board seated and seat belts on 

3. Station doors fully open 

B. Driving defensively and professionally at reasonable speeds. 

C. Knowing where we are going. 

D. Using warning devices to move around traffic and to request right-of-way in a safe and predictable 

manner. 

Under no circumstances shall any aspect of safety be sacrificed or compliance with the Tennessee Motor 

Vehicle Laws be disregarded in order to increase the speed of the response. 





Backing 

All visual-warning lights shall be used when backing fire apparatus. Avoid backing where possible; where 

backing is unavoidable a spotter shall be used; where a spotter(s) is unavailable, dismount and walk 

completely around the apparatus before backing. 

When a spotter is directing a vehicle, the spotter shall be responsible for any accidents that may occur, 

unless the driver disregards the spotter’s directions. 

Any personnel not adhering to this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action. 

Seat Belts and General Safety 

A. The driver shall not move the apparatus until all personnel have boarded the vehicle and are seated 

with seat belts fastened. 

B. Emergency Response 

1. During emergency responses, all firefighting personnel riding on fire apparatus shall put 

on all required protective clothing before boarding the apparatus. No person shall 

remove their seatbelt to don protective clothing or SCBA. 

2. When the Company already has the apparatus on the road for a non-emergency 

assignment, and they are dispatched to an alarm, they will proceed directly to the scene. 

Personnel shall don protective clothing after arriving at the scene if conditions do not 

allow protective clothing to be donned before departure. 

3. Due to the various roles of the Battalion Commander/Shift OIC, it will be his/her option, 

depending on circumstances, as to what level of PPE to wear. A helmet with a turnout 

coat and vest designating him/her as IC should be the minimum PPE worn. Under no 

circumstances shall the Battalion Commander enter a hazardous area without proper 

turnout gear. 

C. Non-Emergency Response/Assignment 

Protective clothing is not required during non-emergency responses or assignments. Protective 

clothing taken on the apparatus shall be secured in compartments or other suitable locations which 

will protect against loss or damage. Helmets shall be secured within reach of the riding position so 

that they may be donned if upgraded to an emergency. 

D. It is the responsibility of the operator and the Company Officer to be certain that all Company 

members are properly clothed and in a seated position with seat belts fastened, before the 

apparatus leaves the station. Riding on tailboards is not permitted at any time. 

E. Smoking or other use of tobacco is not allowed in Fire Department vehicles. 

F. Headlights shall be on any time any piece of apparatus is traveling on a public or private road or 

way. If headlights are not needed for illumination or marking purposes, they may be turned off 

when the apparatus is parked. 





Exiting the Station 

Upon leaving the station, the driver shall be aware of other apparatus leaving at the same time and shall 

yield to all emergency vehicles to the right. Upon leaving the station, the driver shall gently apply the 

brakes to assure their operation prior to entering the street. 

Before exiting the station the Driver/Operator of an apparatus shall do a 360 degree walk around the 

apparatus prior to moving it. 

Whether responding to a call, leaving a training evolution or pulling an apparatus out of the engine bay; 

all drivers shall walk completely around the apparatus prior to moving it. This accomplishes more than 

just the obvious. It allows personnel more time to don PPE completely, it gives the Company Officer more 

time to plan for the emergency and it creates a safer environment by making sure all doors are closed and 

no equipment is loose. 

Warning Devices 

The use of warning lights and sirens does not automatically give the right-of-way to the emergency vehicle. 

These devices simply request the right-of-way from other drivers, based on their awareness of the 

emergency vehicle presence. Emergency vehicle Driver/Operators must make every possible effort to make 

their presence and intended actions known to other drivers, and must drive defensively to be prepared for 

the unexpected inappropriate actions of others. 

All audible and visual warning devices shall be in operation when making an emergency response. Under 

State Law, when responding to an emergency, both warning lights and sirens must be in operation. No 

vehicle will be driven with just its warning lights in operation. 

Speed 

Under all conditions the maximum speed of any responding vehicle shall be consistent with that 

recommended by the Tennessee Department of Motor Vehicles state law concerning emergency vehicle 

operation. Drivers must always maintain a speed consistent with safe operation of the vehicle under 

prevailing conditions. 

Lane Position during Emergency Responses 

A. During emergency response vehicles shall travel in the left lane, and when passing, vehicles shall 

pass on the left. 

Only in extreme circumstances should the operator pass on the right side. 

B. When emergency vehicles must travel in center or oncoming traffic lanes, the maximum 

permissible speed will be twenty (20) MPH. 





Intersections 

Intersections are the most dangerous areas to approach during an emergency response. The following 

special precautions shall be observed by all responding vehicles. 

A. When an emergency vehicle must use center or oncoming traffic lanes to approach controlled 

intersections, (traffic light or stop sign) they will come to a complete stop before proceeding 

through the intersection. 

B. When approaching a controlled intersection (stop sign or traffic light) with a negative right-of-way 

(red light or stop sign), the maximum permissible speed will be five (5) MPH and be prepared to 

stop and only proceed after the driver can account for all oncoming traffic in all lanes yielding the 

right-of-way. 

C. The maximum allowable speed through any intersection shall be the posted legal speed limit. 

D. Although many intersections are now equipped with preemption devices which will change the 

signal to give the apparatus the only green light, it does not give the responding apparatus absolute 

right of way. 

Passing Vehicles 

A. Emergency Vehicles 

During an emergency response, fire apparatus should avoid other emergency vehicles. If passing is 

necessary, permission will be obtained through radio communications and passing only when safe 

to do so. 

B. Other Vehicles 

Operators of emergency vehicles are allowed to pass other vehicles in a no passing zone (this 

includes highway markings such as a double yellow line, etc.) only after they have pulled to the 

side of the road and yielded to the emergency vehicle and the operator has a clear view of the road 

ahead. 

Driver Attention 

A. The Driver/Operator shall focus his/her full attention on the safe operation of the vehicle. The sole 

responsibility of the Driver/Operator during an emergency response is to drive in safe manner. The 

Driver/Operator shall not operate the radio, lights, sirens, or any other equipment unless they are 

the sole occupant of the vehicle. Operation of these devices shall be the responsibility of the 

Company Officer or the firefighter acting in that capacity. 

Drivers of Command vehicles and/or tankers are exempt from this requirement if there is only one 

person in the front seat of the vehicle. Drivers of these vehicles shall exercise extreme caution 

when it is necessary to operate equipment. 

B. The unique hazards of driving on or adjacent to the fire ground or incident scene requires the 

driver to use extreme caution to be alert and prepared to react to the unexpected. Drivers must 

consider the dangers their moving poses to fire ground personnel and spectators who may be 

preoccupied with the emergency, and may inadvertently step in front of or behind a moving 

vehicle. 





Reduced Response 

The first Command or Company Officer to arrive at the emergency scene shall evaluate the need for other 

responding Companies to continue an emergency response. 

Whenever possible, other responding Companies shall be advised to continue in a non-emergency mode or 

canceled. 

Approach Safety 

On approaching the emergency scene, all drivers shall watch for emergency vehicles approaching from 

other directions. They shall drive with extreme caution and be constantly on the alert for firefighters and for 

civilians who may be distracted by the emergency and may step in front of the approaching apparatus. 

School Buses 

Even on emergency response, Fire Department vehicles will stop for school buses with red lights flashing 

loading or unloading students, and proceed only after authorized to do so by the driver of the school bus. 

The only exception is if the school bus is being off-loaded on the opposite side of a divided four-lane 

highway. Driver/Operators should still be alert of possible children or occupants off loading and crossing 

the highway. 

Parked Vehicles 

A. Any time a fire apparatus is parked (except when inside the station bay), the rear wheels will be 

chocked on the down-hill or both sides and the parking brake set. 

B. When stopped at the scene of an incident, apparatus should be strategically placed to protect 

personnel who may be working in the street and warning lights will be used to make approaching 

traffic aware of the incident. When necessary, law enforcement will be called for traffic control. 

C. If it is not necessary to park vehicles in or near the traffic lanes, the vehicle should be parked as 

not to create a traffic hazard. If possible, use parking lots. If the vehicle must be parked in the 

street, park next to a curb and display their four-way flashers. 

D. No equipment shall be removed from any apparatus for personal use. 

E. When not on a response, compartment doors shall remain closed unless opening is necessary in 

order to access equipment, e.g. apparatus check off or community services such as show and tell. 





Driver Training 

All personnel operating emergency vehicles are required to complete an Emergency Vehicle Operations 

Class annually. Without the annual training you will not be allowed to operate an emergency vehicle. 

Any member of the Fire Department that drives a Fire Department vehicle on an emergency response shall 

first be required to complete the following: 

1. Twenty (20) hours driving/operating an engine/pumper 

2. Ten (10) hours driving and manipulating an aerial apparatus 

3. Five (5) hours driving/operating a tanker/tender 

4. Ten (10) hours pump training (actual pump time) 

5. Successful completion of Basic Pump Class (24 hrs) 

6. Successful completion of A 

Accident Notification 

A. Any member who is involved in an accident while operating a City vehicle shall immediately 

notify the Battalion Commander. 

B. The Battalion Commander shall immediately notify the Fire Chief or the Deputy Chief in his 

absence. 

C. Any member involved in an accident while operating a City vehicle shall also submit, in writing, 

through the chain-of-command, a report of the accident to the Fire Chief. 

D. Any member involved in an accident involving property damage or injuries may be subject to a 

drug screen. 





Emergency Evacuation 

Purpose 

The purpose of this procedure is to assure that all personnel operating at the scene of an emergency can be 

alerted to a change in conditions that can affect their safety so that they can evacuate to a safe location. 

Objective 

To establish a procedure for the safe emergency evacuation of personnel on the fire ground or incident 

scene. 

Scope 

This procedure shall apply to all personnel operating at the scene of any emergency incident. 


The Incident Commander, the Sector Officers (Sector Officers are Company Officers or other personnel 

assigned to a particular sector of the incident by the Incident Commander), and the Safety Officer (on 

minor incidents the Incident Commander may also assume the role of Safety Officer, on major incidents the 

Training/Safety Officer may be called to the incident) are primarily responsible for implementing this 

procedure according to the guidelines presented in this procedure. Everyone operating at the scene of an 

emergency has the responsibility to pay attention to developing conditions and to inform superior officers 

of any dangerous conditions that are discovered or observed. 

Any member has the authority to utilize the “Emergency Traffic” announcement when it is felt that a 

notable danger to personnel is apparent. However, considerable discretion should be applied to its use. 

“Emergency Traffic” announcements become ineffective if overused. 

Policy 

The following policy and procedure shall be used in the event an EMERGENCY evacuation is needed on 

the incident scene. 

Definition 

For the purposes of this procedure, the EMERGENCY evacuation of a structure shall mean an evacuation 

that is initiated because conditions are believed to pose an immediate and direct threat to the safety of 

personnel operating in or around the structure. An EMERGENCY evacuation is to be ordered only when 

personnel are in imminent danger. 

An EMERGENCY evacuation should not be confused with the orderly withdrawal from positions that is 

ordered during a shift from an offensive to a defensive mode of operation. 





Observation of Conditions 

All Companies must communicate information on the conditions in their operating area to Sector Officers. 

They should be particularly alert to the following conditions: 

A. High heat conditions that could signal an impending flash over. 

B. Large volumes of smoke with an absence of a corresponding volume of flame, pulsing smoke that 

is alternately pushed from the building and then drawn back into the building, condensation of 

brownish liquid on the inside of windows. All of these are signs of an impending back draft. 

C. Cracks, bowing, or sagging of roofs, walls, or important building members that could affect the 

stability of the structure. 

D. Any other conditions that pose an immediate threat to the safety of personnel operating on the fire 

ground. 

Retreat and Evacuation Procedures 

When a condition that seriously affects the safety of operating personnel is detected, the Sector or Incident 

Commander shall be notified immediately and a immediate course of action implemented. At the same 

time, steps shall be taken to remove threatened personnel from the danger areas. 

If conditions are such that total EMERGENCY evacuation of the building is necessary, the Incident 

Commander or the Safety Officer shall initiate the retreat signal. The retreat signal shall be as follows: 

A. The initiating Officer shall broadcast “EMERGENCY TRAFFIC” over the fire ground radio 

frequency. On hearing the “EMERGENCY TRAFFIC” broadcast, all others on the frequency 

shall maintain radio silence. The Officer shall then broadcast the message “EMERGENCY 

TRAFFIC -- ALL PERSONNEL EVACUATE THE BUILDING.” This message shall be 

repeated a minimum of three times. 

B. On hearing the “EMERGENCY TRAFFIC -- ALL PERSONNEL EVACUATE THE 

BUILDING” message, all apparatus drivers shall immediately place all air horns on the apparatus 

in operation in 10 second bursts for a minimum of one minute or until all personnel are evacuated. 

When personnel who may not be radio-equipped hear this signal, they shall immediately initiate 

evacuation and retreat procedures. 

C. On hearing the “EMERGENCY TRAFFIC -- ALL PERSONNEL EVACUATE THE 

BUILDING” message, all companies shall immediately exit the building and report to the Sector 

Officer that they are safely out of the building. This evacuation is to be accomplished by the 

shortest available route. Hose lines and other equipment that may slow the retreat are to be 

abandoned unless they are needed to effect safe escape. 





D. After exiting the structure, all personnel shall proceed to a point outside the established safety 

perimeter, where Company and Sector Officers shall immediately initiate a head count using 

established departmental procedures for accounting for personnel on the fire ground. 

Building evacuation generally involves a shift from offensive to defensive as an operational 

strategy. In such cases, Command must develop a corresponding operational plan and must 

communicate that plan to all operating elements. This can be a difficult shift to complete, as units 

are committed to positions in an offensive manner. It is extremely important that everyone gets the 

word that a strategic shift has been made. 

Hazards of less than imminent nature should usually be handled by a consultation of Command, Sector 

Officers and/or the Safety Officer, Company Officers or outside agency authorities. These officers or 

specialists should make a determination as to the nature and possible effect of the suspected hazard, and 

advise Command so that he can make a more knowledgeable decision as to the proper course of action. 

Hazards that will affect only a specific sector area should be dealt with within that sector and should not 

necessarily affect the entire operation. 





Fire Ground Safety 

Purpose 

The purpose of this procedure is to insure that all possible safety precautions are taken into consideration 

and are a part of fire ground operations. Not one serious firefighter injury or the loss of life is worth all the 

personal property in Cleveland. 

Objective 

To provide policy and procedure so that the safest conditions will be provided so as to expose firefighters 

to a minimal amount of risk on the fire ground. The safety of firefighting personnel represents the major 

reason for an effective and well-timed offensive/defensive decision and the associated write-off by 

Command. When the rescue of viable victims has been completed, Command must ask him/herself, “Is the 

risk to my personnel worth the property I can save “ 

Scope 



Primary responsibility for adherence to this policy rests with each individual member, Company Officers, 

Battalion Commanders, and Incident Commanders. 

Policy 

It is not the intention of this policy to cover all situations that one might encounter on the fire ground. It is 

the Incident Commander, Safety Officer, and Company Officer’s responsibility to be alert and observant to 

all unsafe conditions on the scene of the incident. All personnel shall adhere to but are not limited to the 

following guidelines. 

Definition 

Many safety principles revolve around actions that take place on the Fire ground. For the purpose of 

Cleveland Fire Department operations, the Fire Ground is defined as: The area inside an imaginary 

boundary that has been determined by safety considerations according to the foreseeable hazards of the 

particular incident. The flexible boundary that determines the fire ground can be altered by various safety 

factors. 





“2in/2out” 

The “2 in/2out” procedure has been established to provide direction for operations in Immediate Danger to 

Life and Health (IDLH) or potential IDLH atmospheres, in accordance with NFPA 1500, OSHA 29 CFR 

1910.120 and 1910.134, when operating in and around hazardous environments. The following policies and 

guidelines shall be used in all IDLH or potential IDLH atmospheres. 

A. IDLH is an atmosphere concentration of any toxic, corrosive, or asphyxiates, or: 

1. Poses and immediate threat to life. 

2. Would cause irreversible or delayed adverse health effects 

3. Would interfere with an individual’s ability to escape from a dangerous atmosphere 

4. Atmospheres with a concentration of oxygen by volume of less than 19.5% will be 

considered as IDLH. 

5. An atmosphere will be considered IDLH until proven otherwise. 

B. A “2in/2out” team requires a two person entry team “in” the hazardous area and the required two 

person stand-by team positioned just “outside” the hazardous area. It is the policy of our Fire 

Department that the “buddy system” is used whenever an entry into any hazard area is made. A 

minimum of four (4) firefighters shall be used when entering an IDLH atmosphere. 

C. Personnel that are operating in an IDLH area will be in full personal protective equipment, with 

SCBA donned and operating before entering an IDLH or potential IDLH area. Personnel that are 

required to enter an IDLH area, will at all times utilize the “buddy” system of teams of two (2) or 

more. Personnel shall not enter an IDLH area alone. 

D. A team leader (generally the Engine Company Officer) will be designated for each “buddy” team. 

The team leader will be equipped with a portable radio and will notify Command in the event of 

an emergency. While operating in an IDLH area, team leaders must remain in direct visual, voice 

or tethered contact with one another at all times. At no time should team members intentionally 

separate from one another. 

E. Each team member will be required to: 

1. Provide fellow members with assistance. 

2. Warn of hazards encountered. 

3. Routinely check on welfare of fellow team members. 

4. Routinely advise Command of conditions. 

5. Provide accountability reports to Command. 





Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) 

Purpose 

To provide a policy for a rapid response and rescue of lost, trapped, or missing firefighter(s) in a burning 

building, collapsed structure or other similar situation. 

Objective 

To establish guidelines for establishing and deploying a RIT during emergency operations. 

Scope 

This policy shall apply when entry is made by Fire Department personnel into an IDLH atmosphere. 


It shall be the responsibility of the Incident Commander to establish a RIT when entry is made into an 

IDLH atmosphere. 

Policy 

It is the intent of this policy to provide a safer work environment to all Fire Department personnel. All 

members should be intimately familiar with this policy and aggressively work to insure adherence is 

achieved. 

Procedure 

A. Prior to entering an IDLH area, a RIT should be assembled outside the hazardous area. The RIT 

is to provide assistance to the interior personnel in the event of an emergency. The RIT will 

consist of 2 or more personnel in full personal protective equipment with donned SCBA and ready 

for immediate service. The RIT will have a separate hose line in place (if possible), along with any 

equipment needed to achieve a possible rescue of fire personnel. 

B. The RIT members shall not be assigned other duties that may interfere with their ability to 

perform rescue if needed or cause them to abandon their position. 

C. In the event the RIT must perform functions that would interfere with their mission, such as 

performing CPR, they will inform the Incident Commander and the Incident Commander may 

advise the interior personnel to exit the IDLH area if he/she deems personnel or life safety is at 

risk. 

D. The RIT leader is responsible for keeping members assembled. He/she shall monitor the fire 

ground tactical channel and be alert for a “MAYDAY”. 

E. If a MAYDAY is called the RIT leader shall notify the Incident Commander immediately via the 

fire ground tactical channel. 





F. The RIT leader should attempt to ascertain the location of the person(s) calling the MAYDAY. 

Once this is done the RIT will enter the structure with full PPE, SCBA and all necessary 

equipment and attempt to locate the lost, downed or trapped firefighter(s). 

G. If/when the subject(s) of the MAYDAY are located, and situational assessment made, the RIT 

leader shall notify the Incident Commander of their condition and communicate a plan of action as 

soon as practically possible. 

H. The RIT should continue searching for the source of the MAYDAY until personnel are found or it 

is determined that the structure is no longer safe or tenable, a team member can no longer proceed, 

or the Incident Commander gives an order to retreat from the building or area. 

I. Once it is determined that a RIT is no longer needed on the fire ground, these personnel should be 

returned to service as soon as possible. 

“MAYDAY” 

The rescue of lost, trapped or missing firefighter(s) in a burning building or collapsed building is especially 

time sensitive. There is a very narrow window in survivability for a firefighter(s) who is out of air supply, 

trapped by approaching fire or by heavy structural collapse. 

Therefore, rapid, concise decisions and actions must be taken to increase survivability. The MAYDAY 

program is designed to prepare all personnel for any sudden life threatening occurrence that may injure, 

trap, disorient or distress any emergency response personnel during an emergency incident. MAYDAY will 

be the radio signal used for any distressed firefighter needing assistance for any reason. No other term shall 

be substituted. The following guidelines shall be used when declaring a MAYDAY 

A. Declaring a MAYDAY 

When an emergency responder identifies that he, or a member of his team, is lost, trapped, 

missing, disoriented or injured and in need of assistance, he shall (if possible) transmit a verbal 

message on the tactical channel to Command and state, “MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY”. 

The person transmitting the MAYDAY shall, if possible, advise the following: 

1. Their apparatus assignment number, their rank and their last name. 

2. Their last known location: floor, room, side of building, etc. and number of personnel 

involved. 

3. Problem: trapped, lost disoriented, out of air, etc. 

4. Their needs: hose line, ladder, air cylinders and rescue tools, etc. 

If a firefighter is unable to communicate verbally, he should activate the alarm on his PASS 

device. 





B. Command’s Response to MAYDAY 

Upon receipt/recognition of a MAYDAY, Command shall notify Communications via the fire 

tactical channel. Communications shall immediately transmit an alert tone followed by a verbal 

message on the tactical channel and fire dispatch channel indicating that a MAYDAY has been 

transmitted. The Communications Center will immediately advise all personnel that all nonemergency 

radio traffic must cease. There should not be any delay in controlling fire ground 

tactical channel once a MAYDAY has been called. Only traffic pertinent to the MAYDAY shall 

be permitted on the tactical channel until a separate radio channel is assigned for the rescue 

operation (if needed). All non-emergency activity will cease on all fire channels, and all channels 

shall be monitored closely for any transmissions by the missing firefighter(s). 

C. Firefighter’s Responsibilities 

Firefighters must not hesitate to declare a MAYDAY if they become lost, trapped, disoriented 

and/or in need of assistance. 

This should occur as soon as the individual thinks that he/she may be in trouble. Upon recognition 

that a MAYDAY situation exists, the firefighter should activate his/her PASS device manually to 

sound an audible alarm. The device should remain active until members of the RIT reach the 

member(s) or the member(s) is able to reach safety. If the device interferes with radio 

communications, it may be turned off temporarily, but must be re-activated to sound the audible 

alarm. Lost or trapped crew(s) shall remain together. 

Lost or trapped firefighter(s) should always attempt to get out of a building by whatever means 

possible. A conscious effort must be made by the trapped firefighter(s) to control breathing and 

remain calm. Unnecessary talking or physical activity must cease to increase the likelihood of 

extending the supply of air until rescuers can locate the trapped member(s). In assuming a 

position to wait for rescuers, the firefighter(s) should attempt to position a flashlight(s) towards the 

ceiling. This may enhance the rescuers ability locate their position. 

Where doors, windows or other egress are not available, firefighters should attempt to reach an 

exterior wall. Once at the wall, a search for doorways, windows and hallways will generally lead 

to the outside. Rescuers will first search hallways, around walls, and around windows and doors 

before sweeping large interior areas. Where a firefighter(s) cannot find a way out, but there is safe 

refuge (protective room or floor) away from the fire to which the firefighter(s) can retreat, he 

should take advantage of this location. Command and rescuers should then be advised of the 

location by whatever means possible. 

Tactical Positioning 

Positioning of operating companies can severely affect the safety/survival of such companies. Personnel 

must use caution when placed in the following positions: 

A. Above the fire (floors/roof). 

B. Where the fire can move in behind them. 

C. When involved with opposing fire streams. 

D. Combining interior and exterior attack. 





E. Where Sector cannot control position/retreat. 

F. With limited access -- one way in or out. 

G. Operating under involved roof structures. 

H. In areas containing hazardous materials. 

I. Below-grade fires (basements, etc.) 

J. In areas where a back draft potential exists. 

When operating in a defensive mode, your operating position should be as far from the involved area as 

possible and still remain effective. Position and operate from behind barriers if available (fences, walls, 

etc.) 

The intent is for personnel to utilize safe positioning where possible/available, in an effort to safeguard 

against sudden hazardous developments, such as back draft explosion, structural collapse, etc. 

When operating in an offensive mode, be aggressively offensive. Effective interior attack operations, 

directed toward knocking down the fire, eliminate most eventual safety problems. 

Crew/Team Operations 

Due to the inherent hazards of the immediate fire or incident, efforts will be made by Command personnel 

to limit the number of personnel on the fire ground to those assigned to a necessary function. All personnel 

shall either: 

A. Be positioned in Staging. 

B. Be assigned to a task or sector. 

1. Wear full protective clothing. 

2. Have crew intact. 

C. Having completed an assignment and having no other assignment available within that sector, 

crews should be assigned to a resource, staging, or rehabilitation sector until such time as they can 

be either reassigned to an operating sector or released to in-service status. 

D. Any personnel affiliated with an agency operating at any type of incident and acting as a 

consultant, an assistant, a technical assistant, a safety consultant, etc. shall: 

1. Remain at the Command Post, with or without protective clothing or equipment as 

required by Command. 

2. When entering the warm/hot zone, action circle, fire ground, or building, be in the level 

of protection equal to that worn by personnel operating in those areas. 





The intent of this procedure is to minimize fire ground confusion/congestion and, more importantly, to limit 

the number of personnel exposed to fire ground hazards to only those necessary to successfully control the 

operation. Individuals or crews shall be restricted from wandering about the fire ground or congregating in 

nonfunctional groups. If the member has not been assigned to a sector or does not have a necessary staff 

function to perform, he/she will stay off the fire ground. 

In extremely hazardous situations (large quantities of flammable liquids, LP gas, hazardous materials, 

difficult marginal rescues, etc.), Command will engage only an absolute minimum number of personnel 

within the fire ground perimeter. Self-standing master streams will be utilized whenever possible. 

In situations where crews are operating from opposing or conflicting positions, such as front vs. rear attack 

streams, interior vs. exterior streams, roof crews vs. Interior crews, etc., utilize radio or face-to face 

communications to coordinate your actions with those of the opposing crew in an effort to prevent needless 

injuries. Ground crews must be notified before ladder pipes go into operation. 

Do not operate exterior streams, whether hand lines, master streams, ladder pipes, etc., into an area where 

interior crews are operating. This procedure is intended to prevent injuries to personnel due to stream blast 

and the driving of fire or heavy heat and smoke onto interior crews. 

Ladder Operations 

When laddering a roof, the ladder selected shall be one, which will extend 2' to 3' above the roofline. This 

shall be done in an effort to provide personnel operating from the roof with a visible means of egress. 

If possible, when laddering buildings under fire conditions, place ladders near building corners or fire 

walls, as these areas are generally more stable in the event of structural failure. 

When operating above or below ground level, establish at least two (2) separate escape routes/means where 

possible, such as stairways, ladders, exits, etc., preferably at opposite ends of the building or separated by 

considerable distance. 

When a ladder has been placed in service on the fire ground, it will not be moved or taken down without 

notifying the Officer who placed it in service. It will not be moved then if there is no other means of egress 

for the personnel using it. 





Operating Power Saws 

When operating power equipment under emergency conditions, accident potential is high due to adverse 

operational conditions. A slight miscalculation or sudden unplanned move can result in a serious accident. 

Performance skill coupled with use of common sense and the strict adherence to safety procedures can 

prevent accidents. Use the following guidelines when operating power saws: 

A. Protective clothing shall be worn by those members operating, and by those members in close 

proximity to the operations of power saws. 

B. The face shield should be in position to provide eye protection. Extra eye protection (goggles of 

safety glasses) should be worn by the saw operator. 

C. To prevent accidents caused by moving belts, gears, chains, blades, etc., it is imperative that 

operator and guide have their protective clothing completely buttoned up. 

D. Carry the power saw with the engine stopped, the guide bar and blade/chain to the rear and the 

muffler away from your body. 

E. Keep both hands on the control handles when operating the saw. Use a firm grip with thumbs and 

fingers encircling the saw handles. 

F. Make sure of your footing before operating the saw. 

G. Whenever possible, a team of two (2) firefighters shall perform cutting operations. The firefighter 

operating the saw (operator) will be assisted and/or guided by the second firefighter (guide). 

H. The saw shall always be shut down when unattended. 

I. Have a plan of action before putting the saw into operations; your plan should include: 

1. Location and sequence of cuts and opening. 

2. Wind direction. Consider its effects on the saw, exposures and personnel. 

3. Your plan should provide for a secondary means of egress. 

J. Whenever possible, an Officer should be present to supervise cutting operations and to assure 

compliance with safety procedures. The number of personnel should be limited to the minimal 

required to sustain the operation. All other personnel shall be removed to a safe location until the 

operation is complete or assistance with the operation is needed. 

K. Always place the safety guard in the proper position to provide protection for the use intended 

before operating the saw. 

L. Power saw operations are safest when cutting on horizontal surfaces near ground level or on 

vertical surfaces near waist level. 





M. Operating a power saw above chest high is extremely hazardous and should not be attempted as a 

normal course of action. This type of operation shall be conducted only under the direct order and 

supervision on an Officer. 

N. The use of a power saw from a ladder is not recommended if there are alternatives. 

O. Side pressure or twisting of the blade when operating a power saw should be avoided. The saw 

should never be forced. If too much pressure is applied to the blade, the hazard of blade breakage 

(carbide tipped) is increased. 

P. The saw cut should be only a deep as necessary. Deep cuts may weaken supporting beams and 

lead to collapse. 

Q. Be careful of electrical hazards when operating a power saw through walls or ceilings. The 

operator should make sure that the electrical power has been cut off. 

R. If conditions permit, scrape gravel and debris from the path of the cut in order to reduce the danger 

of injury from flying chips and loose materials. It also can show the operator, which way the 

rafters are running. 

S. When using the power saw to open metal buildings, doors, etc., where conditions permit, utilize 

methods to eliminate the hazards of sharp edges. Consider making your cut in either and X design 

or a triangular design with the points bent inward. 

T. Observe all safety regulations on the safe handling of fuel. When necessary to refuel, comply with 

the following: 

1. The saw shall never be refueled while the engine is running. 

2. If fuel is spilled while refueling, wipe off saw before starting. 

3. Do not operate the saw if there is a fuel leak, send it for repairs. 

4. Do not start the saw in a small enclosed space after refueling. 

U. Always keep equipment in good, clean, serviceable condition. 

V. Before each use, examine the saw before starting for defects. 

W. After use, re-examine saw, clean and store properly. 

DO NOT OPERATE POWER SAW IN SUSPECTED FLAMMABLE/EXPLOSIVE 

ATMOSPHERES! 





Structural Collapse 

Due to new construction materials such as wood trusses and wood I-beams, structural collapse has been a 

leading cause of serious injuries and death to firefighters. For this reason, the possibility of structural 

collapse should be a major consideration in the development of any tactical plan. 

Structural collapse is always a possibility when a building is subject to intense fire. In fact, if fire is allowed 

to affect a structure long enough, some structural failure is inevitable. 

Regardless of the age and exterior appearance of the building, there is always the possibility that a principal 

structural-supporting member is being seriously affected by heat and may collapse suddenly inflicting 

serious injury to firefighters. Example: a 100' length of unprotected steel will expand 9" when heated to 

1100° F. 

In the typical fire involved building, the roof is the most likely candidate for failure; however, failure of the 

roof may very likely trigger a collapse of one or more wall sections. 

A knowledge of various types of building construction can be invaluable to the Fire Officer from a safety 

standpoint as certain types of construction can be expected to fail sooner than others. Example: Under fire 

conditions lightweight truss and bar joist roof construction can be expected to fail after minimal fire 

exposure. 

Structures have been known to collapse without warning but usually there are signs, which may tip off an 

alert Fire Officer. Action might be taken to alert all personnel of any imminent hazard. 

Tell Tale Signs Are: 

A. Cracks in exterior walls. 

B. Bulges in exterior walls. 

C. Sounds of structural movement - cracking, groaning, snapping, etc. 

D. Smoke or water leaking through walls. 

E. Flexible or “spongy” movement of any floor or roof where fire fighters walk. 

F. Interior or exterior bearing walls or columns - leaning, twisting or flexing. 

G. Sagging or otherwise distorted roof lines or floors. 

The following construction features or conditions have been known to fail prematurely or to contribute to 

early structural failure when affected by fire. 

A. Parapet walls 

B. Large open (unsupported) areas - super markets, warehouses, etc. 

C. Large signs or marquees - which may pull away from weakened walls. 

D. Cantilevered canopies - which usually depend on the roof for support and may collapse as the roof 

fails. 





E. Ornamental or secondary front or sidewalls - which may pull away and collapse. 

F. Building with lightweight truss, bar joist, or bow string truss roofs. 

G. Buildings supported by unprotected metal - beams, columns, etc. 

Buildings containing one or more of the above features must be constantly evaluated for collapse potential. 

These evaluations should be of major consideration toward determining the tactical mode, i.e. 

offensive/defensive. 

It is the principal Command responsibility to continually evaluate and determine if the fire building is 

tenable for interior operations. This on-going evaluation of structural fire conditions requires the input of 

Company Officers advising Command of the conditions in their area of operation. 

Structures of other than fire protected/heavy timber construction are not designed to withstand the effects of 

fire, and can be expected to fail after approximately twenty (20) minutes of heavy fire involvement. If after 

ten (10) minutes of interior operations heavy fire conditions still exist, Command should initiate a careful 

evaluation of structural conditions, and should be fully prepared to withdraw interior crews and resort to a 

defensive position. 

If a structural failure of a building or section of a building appears likely, a perimeter must be established a 

safe distance from the area, which may collapse. All personnel must remain outside this perimeter. 

Rehabilitation Procedures 

In an effort to regulate the amount of fatigue suffered by fire ground personnel during sustained field 

operations, Company Officers should frequently assess the physical condition of their crewmembers. When 

crewmembers exhibit signs of serious physical or mental fatigue, the entire crew should be reassigned to a 

Rehabilitation Sector. Company Officers shall request reassignment from their Sector Officer. The 

Company Officer’s request shall indicate the need for a replacement crew. 

It is the ongoing responsibility of Command to summon adequate resources to tactical situations in order to 

effectively stabilize that situation and to maintain adequate resources during extended operations in order to 

complete all operation phases. For this reason if the Incident Commander deems a Rehabilitation Sector 

necessary he/she should implement it promptly. Bradley County Emergency Medical Service shall be the 

resource of choice to use for rehabilitation of personnel if at all possible. 

The rotation of companies will be utilized by Command during extended operations to provide an effective 

ongoing level of personnel and personnel performance. Communications will assist in coordinating the 

rotation of companies during such campaign operations. 

It is the intent of this policy to reduce the fatigue and trauma experienced during difficult operations to a 

reasonable (and recoverable) level, and it is in no way intended to lessen the individual and collective 

efforts expected of all members during field operations. 





Safety Sectors 

The safety of firefighting personnel represents a major reason for fire ground compartmentalization. Sector 

Commanders must maintain the capability to communicate with forces under their command so that they 

can control both the positions and the functions of their assigned companies. 

Sector Officers and Company Officers shall be able to account for the whereabouts and welfare of all 

crews/crew members under their assignment. 

Company Officers shall insure that all crewmembers are operating within their assigned sector only. Crews 

will not leave their respective sectors unless approved by the Sector Officer. 

When crews are operating within a sector, Company Officers shall keep the Sector Officer informed of 

changing conditions within the sector area -- particularly those changing conditions, which may affect the 

safety of personnel. 

The recognition of situations, which present inordinate hazards to fire ground personnel, and the proper 

response to safeguard personnel from those hazards, is of critical importance to all Fire Department 

operations. 

Command has the responsibility to recognize situations requiring the implementation of a Safety Sector and 

to confirm the response of assigned personnel. 

Upon arrival at a working incident, assigned personnel (Safety Officer, or anyone assigned by Command) 

will report to the Command Post and, unless otherwise assigned, will automatically establish a Safety 

Sector and assume assigned responsibilities. Safety personnel will respond to all multiple alarms and, on 

request, to other incidents. 

A Safety Sector shall be established at those incidents posing a high potential danger to personnel, such as: 

A. Fire complexity; e.g. most working fires. 

B. Hazardous materials and chemicals, etc. 

C. Hazardous structural conditions, existing or potential. 

D. Any other situation where a Safety Sector could be advantageous to the safety of the operation. 

The establishment of a Safety Sector, or the presence of a Safety Officer on the scene, in no way diminishes 

the responsibility of all officers for the safety of their assigned personnel and the responsibility of each and 

every member to utilize common (safety) sense and to work within the intent of established safety 

procedures at all times. 





Search and Rescue 

Search and rescue should be performed according to an efficient, well-planned procedure, which has 

included the safety of search crew personnel. The object of the search effort is to locate possible victims, 

not create additional ones by neglecting the safety of the search crew. 

Prior to entering the search area, all search team members should be familiar with a specific search plan, 

including the overall objective, a designation of the search plan area, individual assignments, etc. 

This may require a brief conference among crewmembers before entering the search area to develop and 

communicate the plan. 

Individual search activities shall be conducted by two or more members. 

Company Officers must maintain an awareness of the location and function of all members within their 

crew during search operations. 

A brief look around the floor below the fire may provide good reference for the search team, as floors in 

multistory occupancies usually have a similar layout. 

Whenever a search is conducted that exposes search crews to fire, they should be protected as soon as 

possible with a charged hose line in order to insure a safe escape route. If search personnel are operating 

without a hose line, lifelines should be used when encountering conditions of severely limited visibility. 

Stairway/Elevators 

A. No fire personnel shall use the elevators during response to a fire alarm or a reported structure fire 

in a multistory building. 

B. All personnel shall use the stairways to access floors above and below the entry point in a 

multistory building. 





Occupational Safety 

Purpose 

The purpose of this program is to identify both organizational and individual requirements and 

responsibility in carrying out a comprehensive safety and health program for employees of the Cleveland 

Fire Department. This plan is geared primarily toward improving firefighter safety and health. This policy 

is specifically established to: 

A. Prevent Accidents. 

B. Prevent Injuries. 

C. Reduce exposure to accidents and injuries. 

D. Reduce the severity of accidents and injuries that do occur. 

E. Reduce the probability of occupational fatalities, illnesses, and disabilities on the part of Cleveland 

Fire Department employees. 

Objective 

To provide a definitive description of a comprehensive program of firefighter occupational safety and 

health which shall be adhered to by all members of the Cleveland Fire Department in the course of carrying 

out the mission of the Fire Department in the City of Cleveland, Tennessee. 

Scope 



It shall be the responsibility of each member of the Cleveland Fire Department to adhere to this policy. It 

shall be the responsibility of the Incident Commander and Battalion Commanders/Shift OIC’s to enforce 

department safety policies and to use all available resources to insure the safety of all personnel at any 

emergency operation. 

Policy 

It should be recognized that many of the individual elements of this policy have been in effect for some 

period of time prior to adoption and have served as documentation of justification for additional elements 

which will be implemented as a result of this program. New elements shall become effective as needs are 

identified and reasonable implementation dates are specified, based on the completion of a cost/impact 

analysis and subject to the review and revision procedures outlined by the Fire Chief. 



Organizational Statement 



This policy recognizes that the Cleveland Fire Department is established and organized as identified in the 

Operations Manuals “Organizational Structure”. The Department shall be staffed with an expected number 

of personnel as set out in the chapter “General Orders –Staffing” of the Operations Manual. The Fire Chief 

shall, on a yearly basis, review the staffing needs of the community, and submit a recommendation to the 

City Manager for his review and approval for action by the City Council. 

This review and recommendation shall take into consideration the following functions which the Fire 

Department is expected to perform. 

A. Fire Suppression Activities 

B. Property Management 

C. Public Education 

D. Required Support Programs 

It shall be the policy of the Cleveland Fire Department to provide and to operate with the highest possible 

levels of safety and health for all members. The prevention and reduction of accidents, injuries, and 

occupational illnesses are goals of the Fire Department and shall be primary considerations at all times. 

This concern for safety and health applies to all members of the Cleveland Fire Department. 

It shall be the responsibility of the Cleveland Fire Department to provide a safe and healthy work 

environment for its members. This health and safety policy is researched, developed, implemented, and 

enforced in order to reduce the risks inherent in the operation of the Cleveland Fire Department. The Fire 

Department, including all of its members, shall be responsible for compliance with this policy and any 

applicable laws and legal requirements with respect to member safety and health. 

In order to reach the objectives of this policy, all rules and regulations established for the purpose of 

firefighter health and safety shall be strictly followed and enforced by members of the Cleveland Fire 


The Safety Officer shall be responsible for management of this policy. 





Records 

The Cleveland Fire Department hereby establishes a data collection system and permanent records of all 

accidents, injuries, illnesses, or deaths that are or might be job related. 

The data collection system shall also contain individual records of any occupational exposure to known or 

suspected toxic products or contagious diseases. 

The Cleveland Fire Department shall maintain a confidential health record for each member and a health 

data base as specified in Section 8-2 of NFPA 1500, Standard of Fire Department Occupational Safety and 

Health Program and in accordance with all applicable HIPPA laws and/or regulations. 

The Cleveland Fire Department shall maintain training records for each member indicating dates, subjects 

covered, and certifications achieved for the term of employment plus three (3) years. 

The Cleveland Fire Department shall maintain inspections, maintenance, repair, and service records for all 

vehicles and equipment used for emergency operations. 



Training and Education 



A. The Cleveland Fire Department shall operate a training and education program with the goal of 

preventing occupational accidents, deaths, injuries, and illnesses. 

B. The training and education provided to members shall address all of the applicable provisions of 

NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Program. 

C. The Cleveland Fire Department shall provide training and education for all personnel to insure that 

they are able to perform their assigned duties in a safe manner that does not present a hazard to 

themselves or to other members of the Fire Department or general public. 

D. The Cleveland Fire Department shall provide training and education for all Fire Department 

members at the level necessary for the duties and functions that they are expected to perform. 

E. All training and education shall be provided by individuals who are qualified to provide 

instruction in the subjects covered. 

F. Prior to assignment to a Fire Company in the field, initial training of members of the Fire 

Department shall consist of a minimum of ten (10) weeks (400 hours). This training shall result in 

meeting the performance objectives of NFPA 1001, Level I and the Tennessee Commission on 

Firefighting Certification. 

G. Training shall be provided for all members as often as necessary to meet the requirements of this 

policy. Each member shall participate in no less than 240 hours of documented training each year 

which includes 40 hours of In-Service training. 

H. Whenever changes in procedures or technology are introduced or new hazards are identified in the 

work environment, appropriate training and education shall be provided for all affected members. 

I. Members shall be provided with training and education appropriate for their duties and 

responsibilities before being permitted to engage in emergency operations. 

J. All members who engage in structural firefighting shall meet the minimum requirements of 

Firefighter I as specified in NFPA 1001, Standard for Firefighter Professional Qualifications 

and/or Tennessee Firefighter I. 

K. All fire apparatus Drivers/Operators shall meet the minimum requirements specified in NFPA 

1002, Standard for Fire Apparatus Driver/Operator Professional Qualifications. 

L. All fire officers shall meet the minimum requirements for at least Fire Officer I as specified in 

NFPA 1021, Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Officers and/or Tennessee Fire 

Officer I. 

M. Fire Department training officers shall meet the qualifications specified in NFPA 1041, Standard 

for Professional Qualifications for Fire Service Instructors and/or Tennessee Fire Instructor I. 

N. All members who may be involved in emergency operations shall be trained in “Incident 

Command”. The training program for all members engaged in fire ground operations shall include 

procedures to be followed to provide for their safe exit from the dangerous area in the event of 

equipment failure or sudden changes in fire conditions. 





O. Training in fire ground operations shall be based on the Operations Manual of the Cleveland Fire 

Department. Training exercises shall be conducted in accordance with the established fire ground 

operating procedures and shall be supervised by qualified instructors. 

P. When training involves live firefighting exercises, these shall be conducted in compliance with 

NFPA 1403, Standard of Live Fire Training Evolutions in Structures. 

Q. Specialized training and education shall be provided to members regarding special hazards to 

which they may be exposed during fires and other emergencies. 

Vehicles and Equipment 

A. The Fire Department shall consider health and safety as primary concerns in the specification, 

design, construction, acquisition, operation, maintenance, inspection, and repair of all vehicles and 

equipment. Fire Department vehicles shall be operated in full compliance with operating 

procedure “Driver Safety”. 

B. All new fire apparatus shall be specified and ordered with a sufficient number of seats in an 

enclosed area as specified by NFPA 1901, Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus, for the 

maximum number of persons who may ride on the vehicle at any time. 

C. When members respond to incidents or to the fire station in their own vehicles, the operation of 

these vehicles shall be governed by all applicable traffic laws. 

D. All Fire Department vehicles shall be inspected at least daily and within 24 hours after any use or 

repairs to identify and correct unsafe conditions. 

E. Maintenance, inspections, and repairs shall be performed in accordance with manufactures 

instructions. Any Fire Department vehicle found to be unsafe shall be placed out of service until 

repaired. After being repaired, the vehicle shall be inspected prior to being placed back in service. 

F. Fire pumps on apparatus shall be service tested in accordance with the frequency and procedures 

specified in NFPA 1911, ISO and Standard on Service Testing of Fire Department Pumpers. 

G. All aerial devices shall be inspected and service tested in accordance with the frequency and 

procedures specified in NFPA 1904, ISO and Standard for Testing Fire Department Aerial 

Ladders and Elevating Platforms. 

H. All equipment carried on fire apparatus or designated for training shall be visually inspected at 

least daily and within 24 hours after any use. Inventory records shall be maintained for the 

equipment carried on each vehicle. Records shall also be maintained for equipment designated for 

training. 

I. All equipment carried on fire apparatus or designated for training shall be tested at least annually 

in accordance with manufactures instructions and applicable standards. Firefighting equipment 

that is found to be defective or in unserviceable condition shall be removed from service and 

repaired or replaced. 





J. All ground ladders shall be inspected and service tested as specified in NFPA 1932, Standard on 

Use, Maintenance, ISO and Service Testing of Fire Department Ground Ladders. All fire hose 

shall be inspected and service tested as specified in NFPA 1962, Standard on Care, Maintenance, 

ISO and Use of Fire Hose. 

K. All fire extinguishers used in the Fire Department shall be inspected and tested as specified in 

NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers. 

L. The hearing conservation objectives of this program shall be taken into account in the acquisition 

of new apparatus, power tools and equipment. 





Protective Clothing and Protective Equipment 

A. The Cleveland Fire Department shall provide each member with the appropriate protective 

clothing and protective equipment to provide protection from the hazards of the work environment 

to which the member is or may be exposed. Such protective clothing and protective equipment 

shall be suitable for the tasks which the member is expected to perform in that environment. 

B. Protective clothing and protective equipment shall be used whenever the member is or may be 

exposed to the hazards for which it is provided in accordance with the procedure in the section 

“Safety-Protective Clothing”. 

C. Members shall be fully trained in the care, use, inspection, maintenance, and limitations of the 

protective clothing and protective equipment assigned to them or available for their use. Protective 

clothing and protective equipment shall be used and maintained in accordance with the 

manufacturers’ instructions and the maintenance and inspection program of the Cleveland Fire 


D. All members who may be engaged in or exposed to the hazards of structural firefighting shall be 

provided with both protective coats and protective trousers that meet the requirements of NFPA 

1971, Standards on Protective Clothing for Structural Fire Fighting. This gear will be subject to 

replacement every 5 years or upon failing inspection. 

E. All members who may be engaged in or exposed to the hazards of structural firefighting shall be 

provided with helmets that meet the requirements of NFPA 1972, Standard on Structural Fire 

Fighter’s Helmets. 

F. All members who may be engaged in or exposed to the hazards of structural firefighting shall 

provided with gloves that meet the requirements of NFPA 1973, Standard on Protective Gloves for 

Structural Fire Fighters. 

G. All members who may be engaged in or exposed to the hazards of structural firefighting shall be 

provided with footwear that meet the requirements of NFPA 1974, Standard on Protective 

Footwear for Structural Fire Fighters. 

H. All members who may be engaged in or exposed to the hazards of structural firefighting shall be 

provided with protective hoods that provide protection for the ears and neck and that interface 

with the SCBA face piece, protective coat, and helmet in accordance with Chapter 6 of NFPA 

1971, Standard on Protective Clothing for Structural Fire Fighting. 

I. All personnel of the Cleveland Fire Department shall wear all the protective clothing specified 

above at all times when involved in or exposed to the hazards of structural firefighting. 

J. When station/work uniforms are worn by members who may be engaged in or exposed to the 

hazards of structural fire fighting, such station/work uniforms shall meet the requirements of the 

Cleveland Fire Department. 

K. SCBA shall be provided for, and shall be used by, all personnel in compliance with the Cleveland 

Fire Department procedure in the section “Safety-SCBA”. 

L. SCBA shall meet the requirements of NFPA 1981, Standard on Self-Contained Breathing 

Apparatus for Fire Fighting. 





M. Compressed gaseous breathing air used by the Cleveland Fire Department in SCBA cylinders shall 

meet the requirements of the Compressed Gas Association Commodity Specification for Air. 

N. The source of a compressed gaseous breathing air such as compressors, cascade systems, storage 

receivers, etc., that is used for filling SCBA cylinders shall be tested annually to assure its 

compliance with the above standard. 

O. SCBA cylinders shall be hydrostatically tested within the periods specified by the manufacturers 

and applicable governmental agencies. 

P. When possible, members using SCBA shall operate in teams of two or more who are in 

communication with each other through visual, audible, physical, electronic or other means in 

order to coordinate their activities and who are in close proximity to each other in order to provide 

assistance in case of an emergency. 

Q. When members are involved in operations that require the use of SCBA or other respiratory 

protective equipment, at least two members shall be assigned to remain outside the area where 

respiratory protection is required. These members shall be responsible for maintaining a constant 

awareness of the number and identity of personnel using SCBA, their location and function, and 

their time of entry. Members with donned SCBA shall be available for rescue. 

R. The face piece seal capability of each member qualified to use SCBA shall be verified by 

qualitative fit testing annually and any time that new types of SCBA are issued. Each new member 

shall be tested before being permitted to use SCBA in a hazardous atmosphere. If necessary, the 

Fire Department shall provide a face piece of larger or smaller size to provide an adequate seal for 

an individual and such individuals shall use only the face piece provided. 

S. Beards or facial hair that interferes with the face piece seal shall be prohibited for members 

required to use SCBA. If eyeglasses are worn, the member shall use frames that do not pass 

through the seal area of the face piece. When provided a prescription by the member the Cleveland 

Fire Department will provide a spectacles kit to be installed in the face piece. 

T. Each member involved in rescue, firefighting, or other hazardous duties shall be provided with and 

shall use a PASS device. Each PASS device shall be tested at least daily and prior to each use, and 

shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions. 

U. All PASS devices used by the Cleveland Fire Department shall meet the requirements of NFPA 

1982, Standard on Personal Alert Safety System (PASS) for Fire Fighters. 

Eye and Face Protection 

Eye and face protection shall be provided for and used by members engaged in fire suppression and other 

operations involving hazard to the eyes and face at all times when the face is not protected by the full face 

piece of self-contained breathing apparatus. 





Hearing Protection 

A. Hearing protection shall be provided for and used by all members operating or riding on fire 

apparatus when subject to noise in excess of 90dBA. 

B. Hearing protection shall be provided for and used by all members when exposed to noise in excess 

of 90dBA from power tools or equipment, except in situations where the use of such protective 

equipment would create an additional hazard to the user. 

C. The Cleveland Fire Department shall engage in a hearing conservation program to identify and to 

reduce or eliminate potentially harmful sources of noise in the work environment. 

Emergency Operations 

A. Emergency operations and any other situation that presents similar hazards, including training 

exercises shall be conducted in a manner to recognize hazards, and to prevent accidents and 

injuries. 

B. The Incident Command System shall be established with written procedures applying to all 

members involved in emergency operations shall be familiar with the system. 

C. The Incident Command System identifies roles and responsibilities relating to the safety of 

operations. Safety responsibilities shall be assigned to supervisory personnel at each level of the 

organization. 

D. The Incident Commander of an emergency incident shall be responsible for the overall safety of 

all members and all activities occurring at the scene. 

E. The Incident Commander of an emergency incident shall establish an organization with sufficient 

supervisory personnel to control the position and function of all members operating at the scene 

and to insure that safety requirements are satisfied. A standard system shall be used to identify and 

account for the assignment of each member at the scene of an incident. 

F. At incidents or situations where special hazards exist, the Incident Commander shall assign 

qualified personnel with the specific responsibility to identify and evaluate hazards and to provide 

direction with respect to the safety of operations. 

Incident Safety Requirements 

The Fire Department shall provide an adequate number of personnel to safely conduct emergency scene 

operations. There shall be a minimum of four (4) personnel on the scene of any structure fire before an 

interior attack is made. Two (2) personnel shall remain outside the structure and be prepared to conduct 

rescue operations if needed. Operations shall be limited to those, which can be safely performed by the 

personnel available at the scene. 





Incidents Involving Special Hazards 

A. When members are operating in hazardous areas, they shall work in teams or two or more. There 

shall be at least two members specifically assigned to remain outside the hazardous area and 

maintain an awareness of the operations inside the hazardous area. 

B. Whenever members are operating in positions or performing functions that include special hazards 

or that would subject them to immediate danger or injury in the event of equipment failure or other 

sudden events, back-up personnel shall be standing by with equipment to provide assistance or 

rescue. 

C. When members are operating at an emergency incident where their assignment places them in 

potential conflict with motor vehicle traffic, they shall wear helmets and a garment with 

fluorescent retro reflective material. 

Facility Safety 

A. All new Fire Department facilities shall comply with all applicable health, safety, building, and 

fire code requirements. 

B. All new sleeping areas in fire stations shall be separated from vehicle storage by at least one-hour 

fire resistive and shall be protected by smoke detectors. 

C. New fire stations shall be designed and provided with provisions to ventilate exhaust emissions 

from fire apparatus in order to prevent exposure to firefighters and to prevent contamination of 

living and sleeping areas. 

D. All Fire Department facilities shall be inspected at least annually. Inspections shall be documented 

and recorded. 

E. All Fire Department facilities shall be inspected at least monthly to identify and cause correction 

of any health or safety hazards. All deficiencies identified in the periodic inspections shall be 

referred to the Station Captain. It shall be the primary responsibility of the Station Captain to 

cause prompt corrective action of any health or safety hazard or code violation. 

Medical 

A. Prior to becoming an employee of the Cleveland Fire Department, individuals shall be examined 

and certified by a Department approved physician as being medically and physically fit. 

B. All members engaged in emergency operations shall be examined by a physician before being 

reassigned to emergency duties after debilitating illnesses or injuries. Members who have not 

satisfied these requirements of the examination shall not be permitted to engage in emergency 

operations. 





C. Members of the Fire Department shall be required to participate in an annual physical examination 

on the following schedule; 

1. 18 to 29 years of age every 3 years 

2. 30 to 39 years of age every 2 years 

3. 40 and over every year 

4. All personnel certified as Hazardous Materials Technicians shall be required to complete 

a physical examination on an annual basis. 

Contagious Diseases 

The Cleveland Fire Department shall actively attempt to identify and to limit the exposure of members to 

contagious diseases on the performance of their assigned duties. When appropriate, inoculations, 

vaccinations, and other treatment shall be made available. 

Fire Department Medical Director 

A. The Cleveland Fire Department shall have an officially designated Medical Director who shall be 

responsible for oversight, guiding, directing, and advising our department in the delivery of EMS 

services. 

B. The Cleveland Fire Department Medical Director shall provide medical expertise in the 

management of this policy. 

C. The Cleveland Fire Department Medical Director shall be a licensed medical doctor who is 

qualified to provide professional expertise in the areas of EMS delivery and occupational safety 

and health as they relate to emergency services. 

D. The Cleveland Fire Department Medical Director should be readily available for consultation and 

to provide professional services on an urgent basis. This may be accomplished by providing access 

to other qualified physicians if necessary. 

Physical Fitness Program 

A. The Cleveland Fire Department Wellness Committee shall develop and implement a program of 

structured participation of all members in a program to develop and maintain an appropriate level 

of physical fitness.. 

B. Members of the Fire Department Wellness Committee shall be trained in an approved wellness 

program that will satisfy the level of physical fitness necessary to carry out the job of a firefighter. 

C. Program to be developed…………………………. 





D. Personnel hired after November 26, 2007 are required to successfully complete a physical 

examination and/or a “Fit-for-Duty” physical agility test on an annual basis. Personnel who are 

unable to meet the fitness standards required, shall be advised of such and shall immediately begin 

a rehabilitation program to facilitate progress in attaining a level of fitness necessary for the 

individual’s assigned functions and activities. This program shall continue until the employee 

successfully completes the Fire Department physical examination and/or physical agility test or up 

to one (1) year, which ever is less. The physical agility test will be given no more than once per 

quarter for a period not to exceed one (1) year. If after one (1) year the employee is still unable to 

successfully pass the Fire Department physical agility test the employee may be transferred into 

another position for which he/she is qualified if a vacancy exists. If there is no vacancy, the 

employee shall be terminated. Any employee transferred of terminated under the City’s “Fit-for- 

Duty” policy may apply for future fire department positions as they become available. 





Protective Clothing 

Purpose 

The purpose of this procedure is to assure that all personnel are prepared to commence fire suppression or 

rescue operations immediately upon arrival at an emergency scene, while maintaining the highest degree of 

personal safety for all personnel. 

Objective 

To prevent injuries to firefighters 

Scope 

This procedure shall apply to all Cleveland Fire Department personnel operating at the scene of any 

emergency incident or training exercise. 


As with any safety procedure, primary responsibility for adherence to this procedure rests with each 

individual. Company Officers are responsible for enforcement of this procedure within their respective 

companies. Authority to deviate from this procedure rests solely with the Company Officer or the Incident 

Commander, who bears full responsibility for the results of any deviation. 

During training exercises, the Training Captain shall also be held responsible for the enforcement of this 

policy. 

Policy 

A. All Fire Department personnel, except the Driver/Operator, shall wear full protective clothing 

when responding to any emergency call. This shall include turnout pants, boots, coat, and helmet. 

Hood and gloves may be donned upon arrival at the incident scene. All Fire Department personnel 

shall arrive at the scene in full protective gear. 

B. Due to the various roles of Chief Officers and Battalion Commanders, it will be his/her option, 

depending on circumstances, as to what level of protection to wear. Under no circumstance shall a 

Chief Officer or Battalion Commander enter a hazardous area without proper turnout gear. 

C. Driver/Operators are not required to wear protective clothing while en route to an incident. 

However, they may wear protective clothing items if they desire. Those apparatus operators who 

choose not to wear protective clothing shall have these items of protective clothing readily 

available and should don them at the scene of all structure fires, Hazmat incidents, and other 

situations that warrant protective clothing. 





D. In order to comply with Federal regulations, all Cleveland Fire Department members shall wear 

the provided high visibility safety vests whenever they are working on or in close proximity to a 

roadway. This is to include all federal and state highways, county and city roads, and any 

secondary roads or streets. Fire department members should not wear these vests when they are in 

close proximity to flames, fire hazard or when there is a possibility of being exposed to hazardous 

materials. 

The safety vests that have been provided are tear-away type garments. Therefore all members, 

except for drivers that may not be wearing turnout coats, may have their assigned safety vests 

affixed to their turn-out coat prior to any calls. If there is a fire or known hazard or other situation 

that calls for the member to not wear the vest then the member can easily tear-away the safety 

vest. By virtue of their position, drivers do not have to have their safety vests affixed to their turn 

out gear, but are expected to wear the vest during any assignment where they are on or near a 

traffic area. 

E. Under no circumstance will a firefighter or Officer be on the fire ground of a working structure 

fire, vehicle accident or Hazmat incident without full protective clothing unless they are in the 

cold zone and not engaged in fire suppression. On ground fires while working under conditions of 

extreme heat and rough terrain, bunker pants, boots, and gloves are required, while coats and 

helmets may be optional if approved by the Incident Commander. 

F. Driver/Operators and/or Officers shall make sure all personnel are in full protective clothing and 

belted in the apparatus before it moves. 

G. When firefighters are already in fire apparatus without protective clothing, such as in returning 

from training sessions or other Fire Department activities, they shall don protective clothing en 

route if safety conditions permit or after arriving at the scene if conditions do not allow protective 

clothing to be donned en route. 

H. After arriving at an emergency scene and the Incident Commander determines that conditions are 

safe without some items of protective clothing, the Incident Commander may allow firefighters or 

Driver/Operators to remove these items. Conditions such as weather, type of incident, exposure, 

time of scene, and other factors should be considered by Incident Commanders when allowing 

firefighters to remove protective clothing. Safety of citizens and Fire Department personnel should 

always be of primary consideration. 

I. Under no circumstances shall any aspect of personal safety be sacrificed in order to increase the 

speed of emergency operations. Emergency operations shall not commence until all involved 

personnel have donned all necessary protective equipment. 

J. Full protective equipment including eye protection shall be worn by all personnel operating power 

tools, hydraulic tools, or forcible entry tools. Full protective equipment is also required for all 

personnel in the action circle at motor vehicle accidents. 

K. Command may use his/her discretion to regulate the wearing of full protective clothing in 

situations where it is necessary to operate in close quarters where full protective clothing cannot 

be worn. 

L. Gloves shall be worn at all times when hand tools, power tools, hose, ladders, or any other 

equipment is used that could cause injuries to the hands. This shall include all work details, 

maintenance operations, and training exercises. 





M. Helmets, with chin strap in place, shall be worn by all personnel operating at incidents where there 

is a possibility that tools, equipment, or debris from above may fall. This would include any time 

personnel are operating above or below grade. 

N. Damage to personal protective equipment shall be immediately reported to your Company Officer. 

The Company Officer shall inspect the damaged article and order it replaced or repaired. 

Equipment that is damaged and its protective ability impaired shall not be used. 

O. In situations where Fire Department personnel are operating on a street or highway, conducting 

training, flowing hydrants, or other non emergency activities, and such activities place them in 

potential contact with motor vehicle traffic, an approved safety vest shall be worn to provide 

increased visibility to the motoring public. 

P. Incident Commanders may use their discretion to determine the appropriate level of protective 

equipment required for personnel operating at incidents where no specific guidelines have been 

established. In all cases, personnel shall be required to wear protective equipment necessary to 

protect against all foreseeable hazards. 

Q. Incident Commanders and personnel operating at the Command Post shall wear identification 

vests and helmets and/or hard-hats. 

R. Annually each Battalion Commander shall conduct an inspection of all protective clothing. 

Protective clothing with defects that could compromise the safety of a firefighter shall be replaced. 

Should damage or wear occur between inspections, firefighters and/or Company Officers should 

report these conditions through the chain of command. 

S. All protective clothing worn by firefighters shall meet with the latest requirements of the National 

Fire Protection Association. 

T. All articles of protective clothing which require washing shall be carefully washed per 

manufacturer’s instructions. Nomex clothing shall be maintained in accordance with 

manufacturer’s instructions found in garment. 

U. Turnout clothing is not to be washed or dried in the washers and dryers that are used for the 

laundering of bed linens, towels, etc. 





Private Owned Vehicles 

Purpose 

It is the purpose of this policy to define minimum requirements and guidelines for off-duty fire department 

members who respond to emergency incidents in private owned vehicles. 

Objective 

To develop policies and procedures for the safe operation of private owned vehicles when responding to an 

emergency. 

Scope 

This procedure shall apply to all Cleveland Fire Department personnel responding to any type of 

emergency in a private vehicle. 


It is the responsibility of each member of the Cleveland Fire Department to adhere to this policy. Failure to 

comply with this policy will result in severe disciplinary action, not excluding termination. 

Policy 

A. All full time firefighters are required to have a valid Tennessee Drivers License. 

B. It is the responsibility of the driver of his/her private owned vehicle to drive safely and prudently 

at all times. 

C. Vehicles will be operated in compliance with the Tennessee Motor Vehicle Laws. 

D. The use of warning lights and sirens is strictly prohibited on privately owned vehicles responding 

to any emergency alarm. 





Wearing and Care of SCBA 

Purpose 

A. The purpose of this procedure is to assure that all personnel are prepared to perform emergency 

operations while maintaining the highest degree of personal safety for all personnel. 

B. To insure that all Fire Department personnel receive the level of protection that their selfcontained 

breathing apparatus was designed to provide. 

Objective 

To insure that all SCBA’s are in proper working condition, that firefighters are trained in their use, and that 

they are worn under appropriate conditions to avoid any respiratory contact with products of combustion, 

super heated gases, toxic products, or other hazardous contaminants. 

Scope 

This procedure shall apply to all firefighting personnel. 


Each firefighter bears full responsibility for adherence to this procedure. Authority to deviate from this 

procedure rests with the Company Officer and the Incident Commander, who bear full responsibility for the 

results of any deviation. 

It is the joint responsibility of Chief Officers, Battalion Commanders, and Company Officers to see that all 

personnel comply with this directive. 

Policy 

The use of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is an essential part of the complete personal 

protective equipment provided for each member of this Fire Department. As such, all personnel are 

expected to use SCBA whenever the need for respiratory protection is indicated. 

It is the policy of the Cleveland Fire Department that personnel are not to be exposed to any hazardous 

atmosphere without the benefit of SCBA. Instances of exposure shall be promptly and thoroughly 

investigated by the Safety Officer. The Safety Officer shall make appropriate recommendations to prevent a 

recurrence, document the incident and submit a report to the Fire Chief. 

Definitions 

For the purpose of this procedure the following definitions shall apply: 

A. Use of SCBA: shall mean the wearing of SCBA with the face piece in place, connected to the 

regulator, breathing air from the SCBA cylinder, and with the PASS device on. 

B. Hazardous atmosphere: shall mean any atmosphere that is contaminated with smoke, gases, or 

other by-products of combustion; or any atmosphere that contains any known contaminants not 

normally present in clean air. An atmosphere that is oxygen deficient or suspected of being oxygen 

deficient shall also be considered hazardous. 





Respiratory Protection Program 

Selection of Respirators 

A. All respirators shall be certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health 

(NIOSH) and must be used in compliance with the conditions of its certification. 

B. Respirators shall be worn in any atmosphere that poses an immediate danger to life or health 

(IDLH), would cause irreversible adverse health effects, or would impair an individual’s ability to 

escape from a dangerous atmosphere. Structural Firefighting, beyond the incipient stage is an 

IDLH atmosphere. Any atmosphere that cannot be identified or reasonably estimated shall be 

considered IDLH. All oxygen-deficient atmospheres (less than 19.5% by volume) shall be 

considered IDLH. 

C. All respirators used in an IDLH atmosphere shall be full facepiece pressure demand self-contained 

breathing apparatus (SCBA) certified by NIOSH for a minimum service life of thirty minutes. 

Medical Evaluation 

A. All personnel must complete an OSHA approved, medical evaluation performed by a physician or 

other licensed health care professional (PLHCP) using a medical questionnaire or an initial 

medical examination that obtains the same information as the medical questionnaire before fit 

testing and use of SCBA. 

B. The PLHCP shall provide the Cleveland Fire Department a written recommendation regarding the 

employee’s ability to use a respirator. 

C. Additional medical evaluations are required under the following circumstances: 

1. An employee reports medical signs or symptoms related to his ability to use a respirator. 

2. The PLHCP, program administrator, or supervisor recommends a reevaluation. 

3. Information from the respirator program, including observations made during fit testing 

and program evaluation. 

4. A change occurs in workplace conditions that may substantially increase the 

physiological burden on an employee. 





Fit Testing 

A. All personnel using a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) must pass an appropriate 

qualitative (QLFT) and quantitative (QNFT) fit test annually. 

B. Fit testing is required prior to initial use, whenever a different respirator facepiece is used and at 

least annually thereafter. An additional fit test is required whenever the employee reports, or the 

employer or PLHCP makes visual observations of, changes in the employee’s physical condition 

that could affect respirator fit (e.g., facial scarring, dental changes, cosmetic surgery, or an obvious 

change in body weight). 

C. The fit test shall be administered using an OSHA-accepted QLFT and QNFT protocol, as 

contained in the mandatory section 1910.134 Appendix A. 

Use of Respirators 

A. Personnel who have facial hair or any condition that interferes with the face-to-facepiece seal or 

valve function shall not wear SCBA. 

B. Personal protective equipment shall be worn in such a manner that does not interfere with the seal 

of the facepiece to the face of the user. 

C. Personnel shall perform a user seal check each time they put on an SCBA facepiece using the 

procedures in the OSHA standard 1910.134 Appendix B-1 or equally effective manufacture’s 

procedures. 

D. Procedures for respirator use in IDLH atmospheres are stated above. In addition to these 

requirements, interior structural Firefighting requires the use of SCBA’s and a protective practice 

know as “2in and 2out”. (Note that this is not meant to preclude firefighters from performing 

emergency rescue activities before an entire team has assembled.) 

The use of SCBA is mandatory for all personnel working under the following conditions: 

A. Where the atmosphere is known to be hazardous. 

B. Where the atmosphere is suspected of being hazardous. 

C. Where the atmosphere may rapidly become hazardous. 

D. Where smoke is visible in the atmosphere, including vehicle and dumpster fires. 

E. Where toxic products are present, suspected of being present (Ex:.meth labs), or could be rapidly 

released without warning. 

F. In unvented, confined spaces unless specific tests are performed to assure the atmosphere is safe. 

G. In any below-grade areas where an emergency exists, unless specific tests are performed to assure 

the atmosphere is safe. 





SCBA shall be worn during overhaul until such time as Command determines that the building, 

enclosure, or structure is well ventilated and toxic elements have been removed. If there is any doubt 

concerning the safety of the atmosphere during overhaul, SCBA’s shall be worn through the overhaul 

process. 

This mandatory policy will require certain adjustments in our individual attitudes and habits, but the 

potential harm to our health is too great to ignore. 

Maintenance and Care of SCBA 

A. Personnel must clean and disinfect SCBA facepiece using the procedures in the OSHA standard 

1910.134 Appendix B-2, or equally effective manufacture’s procedures at the following intervals: 

1. As often as necessary to maintain a sanitary condition. 

2. Before being worn by different individuals. 

3. After each use including fit testing and training. 

4. All SCBA’s carried on apparatus shall be inspected, cleaned, and sanitized properly, 

following Departmental procedures, every Monday and after each use. 

Breathing Air and Quality and Use 

Compressed breathing air shall meet the requirements for Type 1-Grade D breathing air as described in 

ANSI/CGA Commodity Specification for Air, G-7.1-1989. 

Identification Labels 

A. All filters, cartridges, and canisters used in the workplace must be labeled and color coded with 

the NIOSH approval label. 

B. The label must not be removed and must remain legible. 





Training and Information 

A. The Cleveland Fire Department Training Division shall provide effective training to all users of 

SCBA’s in the following areas: 

1. Why the SCBA is necessary and how improper fit, use, or maintenance can compromise 

the protective effect of the respirator. 

2. The limitations and capabilities of the SCBA. 

3. The use of SCBA in emergency situations. 

4. How to inspect, put on and remove, use and check the seal of the SCBA. 

5. The procedures for maintenance and storage of the SCBA. 

6. Recognition of medical signs and symptoms that may limit or prevent the effective use of 

SCBA. 

7. The general requirements in the OSHA standard 1910.134. 

B. All Fire Department Personnel shall receive training in the use of SCBA prior to initial use. 

C. Annual retraining shall be required when on of the following conditions occur: 

1. Workplace conditions change. 

2. New types of respirators are used. 

3. An inadequacy in the employee’s knowledge or use indicates need. 

Program Evaluation 

The Cleveland Fire Department shall conduct periodic evaluations of the workplace as necessary to ensure 

proper implementation of this program, and consult with employees to ensure proper use. 

Record Keeping 

A. Records of medical evaluations shall be retained and made available by the PLHCP. 

B. A record of all fit tests shall be established and retained until the next fit test. 

C. A written copy of this Respirator Protection Program shall be included in the Cleveland Fire 

Department’s Operational Manual and updated as necessary. 

D. A copy of all training documents, fit testing and monthly check off’s shall be given to the 

department Safety Officer. 





Firearms Regulations 

Purpose 

To provide a policy for the caring and use of firearms. 

Objective 

To design and maintain a management system that will ensure personnel exercise proficiency with 

firearms. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all Fire Department personnel authorized to carry a firearm. 


The Fire Chief and Deputy Fire Chief are responsible for the enforcement of this policy. 

Policy 

It will be the policy of the Cleveland Fire Department that anyone authorized to carry a firearm practice the 

safe handling, care, and use of firearms. Personnel shall have training in the safety and mechanics of 

firearms. Weapons shall be inspected and properly registered. Carrying of a handgun must be approved by 

the Fire Chief. 

Procedure 

A. Authorized Weapons 

1. Pistol 

a. Personnel shall carry only a Department issued sidearm while on duty. The 

weapon will be carried and restrained in the appropriate manner as required by 

the duty assignment. 

b. Weapons authorized for duty and off-duty use shall be chambered for 380 

caliber to 45 caliber. The weapon, either semi-automatic or a revolver, shall be 

of double action design with fixed or adjustable sites. Personally owned side 

arms for off-duty use will be authorized only after the Fire Chief inspects the 

weapon and records for the weapon are completed. All such off-duty 

information shall be maintained in the officer’s training file. Ammunition for 

both duty and off-duty weapons will be provided by the Department. 

c. The sidearm may be worn exposed while in the Cleveland/Bradley County area, 

as long as they wear the Department I.D. card and badge in a highly visible 

manner. Side arms will be concealed at all times when the member is in civilian 

clothes outside of Bradley County. 





2. Shotgun 

B. Weapons Maintenance 

a. A Department approved shotgun will be the only type of shotgun utilized. Such 

shotguns shall be carried and secured in the appropriate manner while on duty. 

The weapon will be secured in an appropriate locking gun rack or secured in the 

trunk of the vehicle. The carrying condition of the shotgun will be as follows: 

1. Magazine loaded with five (5) rounds of ammunition. 

2. Chamber empty. 

3. Hammer down. 

4. Safety on. 

b. If the Department shotgun is to be removed from service the following 

conditions will be followed: 

1. The shotgun shall be secured in a safe location. 

2. Magazine empty. 

3. Chamber empty. 

4. Action open. 

5. Safety on. 

a. Members of the Department will keep their weapons in good service condition. They 

shall keep it clean, free from any excessive amount of oil or rust preventative, and always 

ready for inspection by the Fire Chief. 

b. Weapons found to be defective or undependable will not be carried. Each member is 

responsible for maintaining the authorized weapon in good repair. Off-duty weapons, 

owned by the individual will be maintained at the owner’s expense. 

c. No modifications may be made to the Fire Department issued weapon without prior 

approval of the Fire Chief. 



C. Weapon Security 



a. All members will be required to secure Fire Department weapons in a safe and secure 

area when not in service. Each member is issued a gun locking device for their issued 

handgun for this purpose. The area selected to store and secure said weapons should be 

considered reasonably safe to avoid accidental discharges or the tampering with firearms 

from unauthorized personnel. 

b. Members are expressly prohibited from loaning Fire Department weapons to anyone 

without prior approval of the Fire Chief. 

c. Members are prohibited from allowing anyone to fire a Fire Department weapon without 

prior approval of the Fire Chief. This includes close friends and family members. 

D. Standards for Qualification 

1. Each member shall qualify at the firing range of the Cleveland Police Department or the 

Bradley County Sheriff’s Department annually. 

2. Each member must meet the minimum qualifications of the agencies listed above or they 

will not be allowed to carry a firearm. 

E. Unauthorized or Accidental Firearms Discharge 

1. Unauthorized or accidental firearms discharge shall be reported to the Fire Chief 

immediately. The unauthorized or accidental discharge of a weapon may be the subject of 

an internal investigation and result in disciplinary action. 

2. When an unauthorized or accidental discharge of a weapon occurs, the weapon shall be 

inspected for malfunctions. If the discharge was the result of a malfunction, the weapon 

shall be either repaired or replaced. 

F. Ballistics Testing 

1. In incidents involving use of force with a weapon, the firearm shall be taken from the 

member. The weapon shall be forwarded to the Fire Chief for inspection and any 

ballistics testing that may be required. 

2. The Department may require ballistics testing of all Department issued weapons at any 

time. Off-duty weapons that are owned by the officer may be inspected and ballistics 

testing performed under the same requirements and procedures as Department owned 

weapons, for the purpose of determining the safety or proper function of the weapon. 





G. Arrests and Use of Deadly Force 

1. When making arrests or when a member encounters a situation in which the possibility of 

violence or resistance to lawful arrest is present, shall, if possible attempt to remedy the 

situation through advice, persuasion or warning. If this attempt fails or circumstances do 

not permit their use, the member shall react by using the minimum amount of force 

necessary in neutralizing the incident. 

2. The Cleveland Fire Department will enforce the policies the Cleveland Police 

Department concerning arrests and the use of deadly force. It is the responsibility of the 

member who is qualified to make arrest and/or carry a weapon to obtain an up to date 

copy of the Cleveland Police Departments policies and maintain familiarity with those 

policies. 





Physical Fitness Training Facility 

Purpose 

To establish guidelines concerning the use of Fire Department physical fitness training facilities. 

Objective 

A. To establish a time-frame for usage of the Fire Department physical fitness training facilities and 

to eliminate conflicts with other Fire Department activities such as, fire prevention, preplanning, 

and regularly scheduled training classes. 

B. To be in compliance with the City’s Insurance provider’s suggestions and regulations. 

C. To provide the personnel of the Cleveland Fire Department a safe environment to participate in 

physical fitness activities and encourage overall firefighter health and wellness. 

Scope 

These policies apply to all Fire Department personnel. 


All Officers are responsible for enforcing these policies. 

Policy 

A. The training facilities (workout rooms) of the Cleveland Fire Department are only to be used by 

employees of the City of Cleveland and the Cleveland Fire Department. 

B. To avoid a conflict with training and fire prevention activities, a time-frame to use these facilities 

must be established. It is as follows: 

Employees may use the physical fitness training facilities between 0800 hrs and 2200 hrs if there 

is no conflict with training or other Departmental activities and with the approval of the OIC. 

C. Physical fitness attire shall be worn only in areas designated for physical fitness. Upon completion 

of physical fitness training, employees shall immediately return to the daily duty uniform. 





Wellness/Physical Fitness Program 

Purpose 

It is the intention of the Cleveland Fire Department to establish a wellness/fitness program in order to 

promote a healthy lifestyle and to enhance the quality of life of its members so that they may live long and 

productive lives. 

Scope 

This policy shall apply to all 24/48 line personnel who may be required to enter an IDLH atmosphere and 

perform the duties of a firefighter as part of their job description. 


Engine Company Officers are responsible for the administration and adherence to these guidelines. 

Policy 

The Cleveland Fire Department acknowledges that the job of a firefighter is one of the most physically 

demanding occupations in the world. Above average aerobic capacity, flexibility, strength, and muscular 

endurance are all necessary attributes to perform the job in a safe and efficient manner. In addition line 

personnel face unique psychosocial stressors that are a result of exposures to tragic events and suffering. 

The creation of a comprehensive health and wellness program is essential to promoting long-term physical 

and mental health for uniformed line personnel. 

The purpose of this program is to ensure uniformed line personnel are healthy enough to work safely and 

effectively during their careers and maintain good health during their retirement. The intent of the program 

is to implement a non-punitive program where all line personnel work to improve his or her health or 

wellness, competing only with themselves. Participation in this program is required of all 24/48 line 

personnel. The program consists of the following components: 

A. Certified Peer Fitness Trainers (PFTs) 

B. Annual Medical Evaluations 

C. Annual Fitness Assessments 

D. Individualized fitness Programs 

E. Mandatory on-duty Fitness Training 





Peer Fitness Trainer (PFT) 

A. The role of the Peer Fitness Trainer within the Wellness/Fitness Program is vital. All PFT’s must 

attend and complete the Peer Fitness certification program which has been designed and approved 

by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), the American Council on Exercise 

(ACE), and the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC). 

B. Those successfully passing the certification examination have demonstrated the knowledge and 

skills required of a PFT within the Cleveland Fire Department’s Wellness/Fitness Program. They 

include but may not be limited to the following: 

1. Conduct Fitness Assessments of fire department personnel. 

2. Design Individualized fitness programs for personnel. 

3. Educate and demonstrate the proper use and /or technique for specific exercises, lifts, and 

exercise machinery. 

4. Provide general nutrition information. 

5. Maintain confidentiality between themselves and their clients. 

6. Data Collection. 

7. Proctor the CPAT for potential firefighters. 

8. Assist in the physical training of newly hired firefighters during “Rookie School”. 

9. Proctor the yearly Work Performance Evaluation (WPE). 

10. Equipment Purchasing recommendations. 

Annual Medical Evaluations 

A. All 24/48 line personnel and any staff members wishing to participate in the wellness/fitness 

program will be required to undergo a yearly medical evaluation. 

B. Medical Evaluations will be in accordance with guidelines set forth in NFPA 1582. 

C. Members of the department who are certified as HAZ-MAT technicians will have additional 

testing in accordance with OSHA regulations. 





Annual Fitness Assessments 

A. Every member in the wellness/fitness program will be required to undergo a fitness assessment 

before starting an individualized workout plan. 

B. In addition, personnel will undergo annual fitness assessments in order to gauge improvement and 

identify areas where improvements may be needed. 

C. The fitness assessment will be conducted by certified Peer Fitness Trainers (PFTs) and follow the 

protocols in the IAFF/IAFC Fitness/Wellness Initiative 3 rd Edition and include the following: 

1. Body Composition: Skin fold measurements 

2. Aerobic Capacity: WFI Treadmill test. 

3. Muscular Strength: Hand grip, Static Arm, Static Leg 

4. Muscular Endurance: Push-up & Prone Static Plank 

5. Flexibility: Sit & Reach 

Individualized Fitness Programs 

The hallmark of a successful Wellness/Fitness Program is to tailor workouts to the individual person 

instead of instilling a mass exercise program. Although these programs are more time-consuming, the 

benefits are much greater. 

A. Once each member has completed their medical evaluation and fitness assessment a one-on-one 

consultation with a PFT will take place. The consolation will help the PFT to devise a 

personalized exercise program taking into account the client’s individual characteristics such as: 

1. Age 

2. Weight 

3. Body Composition 

4. Goals 

5. Motivational Level 

6. Workout History 

7. Current Fitness Level 

8. Current and Previous Injuries and Disabilities 

B. An individualized fitness program will be assigned to personnel for the following reasons: 

1. Assistance is requested by department personnel. 

2. An employee hired after November 26, 2007 fails to pass the Work Performance Evaluation. 

3. A sub-standard work performance issue has been identified by an Officer. 





Mandatory On-duty Fitness Training 

A. All line personnel are required to participate in one hour of physical fitness training during each 24 

hour shift with a minimum of 30 minutes continuous aerobic or strength conditioning. 

B. Physical fitness training should consist of activities which are non-competitive and do net lead to 

direct physical contact between participants, while at the same time improving aerobic capacity, 

muscular strength, and endurance. The following components will be incorporated into the activity 

to ensure the safety of participants and optimize the conditioning benefit. 

1. Adequate pre- and post-hydration 

2. Warm up 

3. Aerobic conditioning 

And/or 

4. Strength conditioning 

5. Stretching 

6. Cool down 

C. In order to limit coverage deficiencies, Company Officers will schedule, with the approval of the 

Battalion Commander, a one-hour time period for physical fitness training each shift. Each 

exercise period shall be recorded by the Company Officer in the Firehouse training log. 

D. Companies at the outer Stations will be permitted and encouraged to use the fitness facilities at 

Station 1 and Station 4, to give all personnel the necessary resources needed to stay physically fit. 

E. Companies at outer Stations will be required to use the facilities at Station 1 or Station 4 if any 

member’s workout requires equipment that is not available their Station 

F. Fitness training should remain a top priority for each Company. Waiving daily fitness training 

should only occur on shifts where an unusually large amount of unscheduled work arises. 





“Fit-for-Duty” Work Performance Evaluation 

Purpose 

To ensure line personnel of the Cleveland Fire Department can meet the physical demands of firefighting, 

rescue, and emergency medical duties in a safe and effective manner. 

Scope 

All line personnel shall adhere to this policy. 


It is the responsibility of all Cleveland Fire Department line personnel to read and understand this policy. 

Policy 

All CFD line personnel are required to participate in a yearly Work Performance Evaluation (WPE). 

Members hired after November 26, 2007 are required to successfully complete the WPE in a predetermined 

time or face punitive action. Personnel hired before November 26, 2007 are required to attempt the WPE 

but are not required to finish the evaluation or face punitive action. 

Overview 

A. The CFD incumbent WPE test consist of 5 events, designed to measure the physical ability of a 

fire fighter to perform skills required to operate effectively on an incident. 

a. Stair Climb 

b. Hose Hoist/Stair Descent 

c. Forcible Entry 

d. Hose Advance 

e. Victim Rescue 

B. The events in the Physical Agility segment are continuous and must be completed in less than five 

(5) minutes to be considered successful. Individuals are encouraged to pace themselves and move 

through the events safely. Running is only allowed during the Hose Advance portion of the test. 

Procedures 

A. The safety of the firefighter will be the top priority during the administration of the WPE test. The 

strenuous nature of the WPE test requires members to be monitored closely throughout the testing 

process. The test WILL NOT be administered when the following environmental conditions exist: 

1. Temperature > 85 degrees Fahrenheit 

2. Heat index > 90 

3. Temperature < 40 degrees Fahrenheit 

4. Wind Chill factor < 32 





B. The WPE test will be administered through the Training Division. All test proctors should be 

intimately familiar with the WPE Procedures. Peer Fitness Trainers will be utilized as test 

proctors. 

C. A fully equipped BCEMS/CFD paramedic will be on scene for any medical emergencies that 

might arise. Fully equipped consists of tech kit, medic box, oxygen, defibrillator, and portable 

radio. 

D. All members performing the test will be given a training/briefing session prior to administration of 

the test consisting of: 

1. Safety precautions 

2. Verbal and written description of WPE test procedures 

3. Description of each task to be performed 

4. Explanation of scoring method 

5. Time allotment for each segment 

6. Acceptable performance techniques 

E. The proctor will constantly monitor members during performance of testing procedures. If the 

proctor determines that safety is compromised, the person performing the exercise will be stopped 

and instructed in the proper technique. The time will continue to run during this period. 

F. The individual WPE test shall be terminated for the following reasons: 

1. Proctor feels that an unsafe technique may lead to injury. 

2. A medical condition that exists may place the member at risk. 

3. An environmental condition exists that may place member at risk. 

4. Any failure in WPE test equipment. 

G. If any personnel are unable to complete their evaluation as a direct result of equipment failure, 

they may be permitted to perform another evaluation that same day. If not, they may be allowed to 

return to duty and reschedule another evaluation within a one-week period. 





WPE Test Description 

Physical Agility 

Event 1: Stair Climb 

This event simulates the firefighter’s ability to carry a high-rise pack to an upper story location. 

The firefighter will begin at the start line and ascend to the top of the exterior stairs at the training tower 

carrying one section of 2 ½ inch fire hose folded “accordion style” and carried over the shoulder. The fire 

hose will be placed in a square marked on the floor at the top of the training tower. The applicant must 

touch every step and utilize the handrail when ascending the stairs. 

Event 2: Hose Hoist/Stair Descent: 

This event simulates the firefighter’s ability to hoist and lower two sections of 1 ¾ hose to and upper floor 

location and well as safely descending multiple floors with a high-rise pack. 

From the top of the tower, using a hand over hand motion, pull a ½ inch rope to hoist two (2) sections of 1 

¾ inch fire hose and place in a square marked on the top of the tower. After placing the two sections in the 

square, the applicant will then pick up the two sections and place them over the rail and lower them back to 

the ground using a hand over hand motion. The firefighter will then return to the square marked on the 

floor and pick up the section of 2 ½ inch hose and place it on their shoulder. The firefighter will then 

descend to the bottom of the exterior stairs touching every step and utilizing the handrail. Once at the 

bottom of the stairs the firefighter will put the 2 ½ inch hose in the square marked on the ground. The 

firefighter will then proceed twenty-one (21) feet from the bottom of the training tower to the forcible entry 

phase of the events. 

Event 3: Forcible Entry: 

This event simulates the critical task of using force to open a locked door or to breach a wall. 

Using a weighted shot mallet (sledge manner) and Keiser Force Machine, the firefighter will drive a 158 

pound I-beam five (5) feet. This event is complete when the end of the beam crosses the five (5) foot 

marker. Upon completion of this event the firefighter will proceed twenty-five (25) feet to the obstacle 

course and negotiate five (5) cones placed fifteen (15) feet apart in a zigzag pattern. Upon completion of 

the obstacle course, the firefighter will proceed fifteen (15) feet to the hose advance event. 

Event 4: Hose Advance: 

This event simulates the critical task of advancing a charged hand line. 

The firefighter must pick up and advance a 1 ¾ inch charged (80 psi) hose line seventy (70) feet (do not 

drop or throw the nozzle). Firefighters may run during this portion of the test. Upon completion of this 

event, the applicant will proceed seventy (70) feet to the victim rescue. 

Event 5: Victim Rescue: 

This event simulates the critical task of removing a victim or injured partner from a fire scene. 

The firefighter must drag a rescue mannequin (weighing 165 pounds) backward for a distance of thirty-five 

(35) feet around a designated cone and returning to the start/finish line. This event (and the course) is 

complete when both the victim and firefighter completely cross the finish line. 

WPE is complete. Move to the rehabilitation area. 





Injury During Participation in the WPE 

A. Any employee injured during the WPE shall follow the guidelines established in the City of 

Cleveland, Tennessee Personnel Rules and Regulations Page 46. 

Procedures for Unsuccessful Completion (Firefighters hired after November 26, 2007) 

A. Firefighters who fail any portion of the WPE shall immediately begin a rehabilitation program to 

facilitate progress in attaining a level of fitness necessary for the individual’s assigned functions 

and activities. 

B. A Peer Fitness Trainer (PFT) will be assigned to the individual and an individualized workout plan 

will be created and followed. 

C. The rehabilitation program shall continue until the employee successfully completes the WPE or 

up to one (1) year, whichever is less. 

D. The WPE will be given no more than once per quarter (3 months) for a period not to exceed one 

(1) year. 

E. If after one (1) year the employee is still unable to successfully pass the WPE, the employee may 

be transferred into another position for which he/she is qualified if a vacancy exist. If there is no 

vacancy, the employee shall be terminated. 

F. Any employee transferred or terminated under the City’s “Fit-for Duty” policy may apply for 

future fire department positions as they become available. 





Chapter X 

Training 

Live Fire Training 

Purpose 

To provide a means in which live fire can be used safely, while still preserving fire conditions that warrant 

aggressive suppression techniques. At all times the safest conditions will be provided so as to expose 

participants to a minimal amount of risk. 

Objective 

To provide policy and procedure for the safe operation of live fire training sessions. 

Scope 

These guidelines seek to establish standard operating procedures for the safe use of live fire as a training 

aid. These guidelines do not include non-structural live fire training exercises, such as training with 

vehicles or grassland. 


It is the responsibility of the Training Captain to see that all personnel involved in live fire training comply 

with this policy. 

Policy 

All Cleveland Fire Department personnel shall comply with the following guidelines: 

Definitions 

A. Acquired Building -- A building acquired by the Cleveland Fire Department with expressed intent 

to conduct live fire training exercises within. 

B. Evolution -- A set of prescribed actions resulting in a positive fire ground operation. 

C. Instructor -- An individual who has obtained state certification as a fire service instructor, or Fire 

Department Instructor I. 

D. Instructor-in-Charge -- The Department Training Captain or his/her designee. 

E. Live Fire -- Any open flame or device capable of propagating fire to the surrounding structure or 

to the combustible materials within. 

F. Participant -- Any person, whether student, instructor, or other persons, actively involved in the 

live fire training exercises. 

G. Safety Officer -- An individual designated to be responsible for the overall maintenance of safety 

of the live fire training exercise, primarily the Training Captain or his designee. 





H. Student -- Any person participating at a live fire training exercise for the purpose of receiving 

training. 

Structural Consideration 

A. Any structure acquired for use in a live fire training exercise shall be properly prepared for the 

exercise. 

B. The acquired structure shall be inspected by the Training Captain, Instructor-in-Charge, and the 

department Fire Inspector to determine structural integrity and the ability of the structure to 

withstand fire and fire related loads, such as water accumulation, the weight of participants, etc., 

prior to initiation of property transfer activities. 

C. Ownership of the acquired structure shall be verified prior to the initiation of any activities. A 

clear written indication of the anticipated condition of the structure after the training exercises 

shall be received by the owner prior to initiation of training exercises. 

D. Proof of insurance cancellation shall be acquired from the owner prior to acceptance of the 

structure by the Cleveland Fire Department. 

E. Removal of hazardous materials and conditions shall be accomplished prior to the initiation of any 

activities. Potentially hazardous conditions such as holes in the floor or walls, missing stair 

railings, broken windows, etc., shall be repaired prior to initiation of any activities. Any broken 

windows that are boarded up shall be done from the exterior of the building, using as few nails as 

possible. This provides secondary means of escape by kicking the boarding material out from the 

inside. 

F. All low density fiberboard and other associated unconventional interior finishes shall be removed 

prior to any activities. 

G. All doors and windows shall be functional unless they contribute to a hazardous 

condition. 

H. Adequate vent openings shall be made in the roof. 

I. Roof ventilation openings, normally closed and designed for emergency use, may be made in roof, 

consisting of precut panels or hinged covers. 

J. All adjacent buildings or property possibly endangered by activities shall be protected or removed. 

K. Hazardous conditions surrounding the structure shall be removed. 

L. Streets in the immediate vicinity of the exercise site shall be surveyed for possible hazards, and the 

Police/Sheriff’s Department shall be notified prior to the initiation of any activities if any exist. 

M. Weather conditions, primarily wind speed, wind direction, and humidity, shall be surveyed. 

Conditions shall be monitored for the duration of the exercise. 

N. Termination of utility services shall be positively determined prior to initiation of any activities. 





O. Notification to EPA and all necessary permits shall be obtained prior to activity. 

P. Requirements listed in NFPA 1403, Standard on Live Fire Training, shall be reviewed and 

followed. 

Water Supply 

A. Water supply needed shall be assessed based upon the extent of the exercises, size and age of the 

structure, and reserves needed for emergencies. 

B. The water supply shall meet the criteria set out in NFPA 1231, Standard for Suburban and Rural 

Firefighting. 

C. A minimum reserve of 50% of total fire flow needed, as computed by B above, shall be available 

at all times for the duration of the exercises. 

D. The water supply shall be dependable in that there shall not be the possibility of cessation of 

required water flow to the structure. Use of additional pumpers and water sources shall be used if 

necessary to fulfill this requirement. 

Staging 

A. An area shall be provided and designated as a staging area for the parking of apparatus to be used 

on emergency call. 

B. A medical sector staging area shall be established and afforded easy access to the exercise site. 

C. Consideration shall be given to routes in and out of the exercise site with regard to emergency 

apparatus responding to the site. 

Pre-Burn Briefing Session 

A. Prior to the initiation of live fire training exercises, all participants shall participate in a pre-burn 

briefing session. Items to be discussed shall include: nature of the evolution, layout of the 

structure, applicable escape routes, and other pertinent information. 

B. All participants shall review the structural floor plan showing all interior rooms, hallways, exterior 

openings and means of ingress/egress. 

C. All participants shall conduct a walk-through of the structure prior to initiation of the 

exercise. 

D. The Communications Center shall set off paging tones prior to the exercise stating that this is a 

training exercise and giving the location of the exercise. 

E. All participants shall be instructed as to the procedure to follow should total evacuation of the 

structure be signaled. In the case of total evacuation, all instructors shall report those not 

accounted for to the Instructor-in-Charge. 



Non-Participant Safety 



A. All persons not directly involved in the exercise, i.e. spectators, shall be restricted from the area 

for a distance determined by the Safety Officer. 

B. Appropriate control measures, such as a rope or barrier tape, shall be erected to provide a physical 

barrier for spectators. 

C. Visitors allowed within the restricted safety area shall be escorted at all times and shall be entered 

into the accountability system. Additionally, all visitors shall be attired in appropriate protective 

clothing. Visitors shall not be escorted into areas where the use of SCBA is required. 

Fuels 

A. All fuels used during the live fire training exercise shall have known burning characteristics. 

Unknown materials shall not be used. 

B. Class A fuels, such as wood, paper or straw, shall be used at all times, and only in amounts 

necessary to produce the desired environment. 

C. The use of flammable liquids, as defined in NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, 

or flammable solids are prohibited from use at live fire training exercises. 

D. Small amounts of combustible liquids, primarily diesel fuel or kerosene, may be used for ignition 

purposes. These fuels shall be stored in approved containers in a safe area away from the structure. 

All participants handling these fuels shall be attired in full protective clothing and be protected 

with a charged 1 ¾ hand line. 

E. Non-toxic smoke generators may be used during smoke exercises. Toxic smoke, such as produced 

by rubber or oil products, shall not be used for these exercises. 

Safety 

A. A Safety Officer shall be designated for all live fire training exercises. 

B. The Safety Officer shall have the authority, regardless of rank, to intervene and control any aspect 

of the exercise when, in his/her opinion, a potential danger exists. 

C. The Safety Officer shall be responsible for, but is not limited to: 

1. Prevention of unsafe acts. 

2. Elimination of unsafe conditions. 

D. The Safety Officer shall provide for the safety of all persons in the area of the exercise, to include 

participants, visitors, and spectators. 

E. The Safety Officer shall not be assigned other duties that interfere with his/her primary 

responsibility. 

F. Sufficient backup attack hand lines shall be provided to insure adequate protection of the primary 

attack crews. 





G. The Instructor-in-Charge shall determine prior to the evolution how many and what size initial and 

backup lines will be used. Each hose line used will be a minimum of 1 ¾ in size and provide at 

least 95 GPM. 

H. The Instructor-in-Charge will assign one instructor to each separate crew, whether interior or 

exterior, not to exceed five students per crew. 

I. Additional safety personnel, as deemed necessary by the Safety Officer, shall be placed 

strategically within the structure to react to any unplanned or threatening situation or condition. 

J. A building evacuation plan and an evacuation signal, whether air horn or siren, shall be 

demonstrated for all participants prior to initiation of any activities. 

K. Emergency medical services, capable of providing advance life support and transport, shall be onsite 

during all live fire training evolutions and for the duration of the event. 

L. One person shall be designated to control fuels and the ignition of these fuels under the direct 

supervision of the Safety Officer, or his designee. This person shall not be a student and shall wear 

full protective equipment including SCBA. The decision as to when the fuels shall be ignited shall 

be the responsibility of the Instructor-in-Charge. 

M. No person (s) shall be placed within the structure to play the role of a victim. 

Protective Clothing and Equipment 

A. Each participant shall be equipped with full protective clothing and SCBA. All participants shall 

be inspected by the Safety Officer prior to entry for evidence of proper application of equipment. 

B. All personnel shall wear SCBA when the following conditions exist: 

1. Oxygen deficient atmosphere. 

2. Atmosphere contaminated by products of combustion. 

3. Both of the above. 

4. Below grade level. 

5. Potentially hazardous condition of environment. 

6. At the discretion of the Safety Officer or the Instructor-in-Charge. 

C. All participants entering the structure shall be provided with a PASS device and such device shall 

be in a functioning mode. 





Instructors 

A. All instructors shall have obtained state certified Fire Department Instructor I or above. 

B. Student-instructor ratio not to exceed 5 to 1. 

C. The Instructor-in-Charge shall be responsible for maintaining these guidelines. 

D. Instructors shall account for students by utilizing documentation, an accountability system and by 

use of “head count” before entering and after exiting the structure. 

E. An instructor or other designee shall be assigned to maintain the accountability system and to 

assure compliance with the system. 

Records and Reports 

A. All participants shall be listed and accounted for before and after the exercise. 

B. All injuries received by participants shall be recorded and forwarded to the departmental Safety 

Officer. 

C. A post-incident critique session shall follow the exercise within a reasonable amount of time to 

evaluate the performance of participants and to reinforce the learning experience. 

D. A detailed report of the exercise, including an evaluation of the exercise and the participants shall 

be given to the Fire Chief. 

General 

A. The Incident Command System shall be established and used for the duration of the incident, 

including appropriate sectorization of areas and/or operations. 

B. The Instructor-in-Charge and the Safety Officer shall insure that proper overhaul of the structure 

has been accomplished and that the structure is safe prior to leaving the exercise site. 






Purpose 

A. To provide information for use during fire operations (or other emergency incidents) at a given 

occupancy. 

B. To provide Fire Department personnel with the opportunity to gain the necessary first-hand 

knowledge of the various occupancies throughout the City. 

Objective 

A. To increase Fire Department emergency incident management effectiveness. 

B. To produce a documented record of Target Hazard Pre-Fire Plan inspections. 

C. To provide current updated information on target hazards within the City of Cleveland. 

Scope 

The information contained within this policy is limited to Pre-Fire Planning. 


A. All members are responsible for identifying those occupancies, which may be classified as target 

hazards. This identification will be accomplished be using the priority matrix system and a brief 

on-site visit of each site. 

B. All Officers are responsible for exerting a cooperative effort to follow Fire Departmental policy 

and to accomplish those objectives relating to pre-fire planning. 

C. The Deputy Chief is responsible for completing a list of occupancies to be pre-fire planned and for 

assigning them to each Commanders/Shift OIC. 

D. The Deputy Chief and Battalion Commanders are responsible for the management and 

coordination of the pre-fire planning program. 

E. Each Company will perform pre-fire planning activities within its district. The Company Officers 

are responsible for completion of the pre-fire planning assignments which have been delegated to 

them. 

F. The Fire Inspector(s) shall act as a consultant to the pre-fire planning program. 





Policy 

A. An aggressive pre-fire planning program shall be conducted in all areas under the jurisdiction of 

the Cleveland Fire Department. 

B. The pre-fire planning program shall not conflict with or supersede but may be coordinated with 

the planned Fire Prevention/Inspection program. 

C. Proper training and coordination shall be provided at all levels to insure an effective program. 

Procedure 

A. Pre-plans are assigned to the Company Officer by the Battalion Commander/Shift OIC. 

B. The Company Officer makes the necessary contact and arrangements to conduct a Pre-Fire Plan 

inspection. 

C. Company Officers should hold a meeting with their personnel prior to the pre-fire plan inspection, 

and should assign portions of the plan to the various members of the Company. 

D. The Company member assigned to plot plan drawing shall use the guidelines in the Pre-Fire Plan 

handouts to complete the drawing. 

E. The Company Officer shall collect the information gathered by the Company members and shall 

consolidate the information into the Pre-plan Form. The written sheet will be done by Company 

personnel. 

F. Completed plot plan sketches shall be drafted to a scale appropriate for the Pre-plan Form. 

G. Completed plot plans and written sheets shall be submitted to the Battalion Commander/Shift OIC 

and to the Deputy Chief for approval, who shall then forward the information to the Fire 

Inspector(s) for GPM requirement calculations. 

H. Completed written sheets shall be typed and placed in the pre-fire plan notebooks and placed in 

the cabs of all apparatus. 

I. Any discrepancies, errors, or omissions found while on a Fire Prevention Inspection, Training 

session, etc., shall be submitted to, and changed after approval by the Deputy Chief. 

J. Each preplan shall be re-inspected on an annual basis by the same station, but a different shift. 

K. The Training Captain shall incorporate into his scheduled training programs, a classroom review 

of all pre-plans to all shifts. 





General Training 

Purpose 

A. To provide a continuous and progressive training program that will enable Fire Department 

personnel to provide the highest possible level of service to the community. 

B. To facilitate the acquisition and development of knowledge and skills necessary for Fire 

Department personnel to professionally fulfill their duty to the public. 

C. To provide continuous reinforcement and monitoring of the necessary skill and knowledge levels 

of Fire Department personnel. 

Objective 

A. To provide policy relative to the Fire Department training program. 

B. To list the responsibilities of the various levels of the Fire Department relative to training. 

C. To list the minimum training program requirements in terms of required training hours per week 

and annually. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all personnel of the Cleveland Fire Department. 


A. The authority and responsibility for the adoption and approval of various training requirements 

shall be vested in the Fire Chief. 

B. The Training Captain shall be responsible for: 

1. Evaluation of training content. 

2. Evaluation of the continuity of training between shifts. 

3. Scheduling of Mutual Aid training sessions. 

4. Continuity of training between the Cleveland Fire Department and other agencies. 

5. Coordinating with the Battalion Commanders in matters relating to training. 

6. Scheduling routine weekly training sessions and/or drills. 

7. Conducting routine training sessions and drills. 

8. Development of lesson plans, examinations, and attendance records for training sessions 

and drills. 





9. Scheduling of recruit training. 

10. Providing all necessary support and assistance to the Battalion Commanders and Shift 

Instructors relative to training matters. 

11. Scheduling of all special training sessions. 

12. Assuring that all required training courses are developed and offered. 

C. Battalion Commanders are responsible for: 

1. Evaluating the training needs of their respective shifts and reporting to the Training 

Coordinator. 

2. Coordinating with the Shift Instructor under their supervision relative to training needs 

and requirements. 

3. Coordinating with the Training Captain in matters related to training. 

D. Shift Instructors will serve as an assistant to the Training Captain. 

E. All Fire Department members are responsible for participating in Fire Department training 

activities and for maintaining personal and professional competence relative to their respective 

classification and position within the Department. 

Policy 

A. The Fire Department shall provide a regular and continuous standardized training program to its 

members. 

B. The Fire Department shall provide standardized training references and materials made available 

for the use of its members in conjunction with the Fire Department training program. 

C. All Fire Department members shall participate in the Fire Department training program. 

Training Manuals 

A. The International Fire Science Training Association (IFSTA) Manuals shall be used for training 

firefighting personnel in accordance with the Tennessee Commission of Fire Fighting Standards 

and Education. 

B. In order to be certified by the Tennessee Commission of Fire Fighting, it is essential for all 

firefighting personnel to study and fully comprehend the IFSTA Manuals. 

C. The IFSTA Manuals shall be used in preparation for the certification test, and it also shall be 

employed in the daily operation of training procedures. 

D. The most current editions of the IFSTA Manuals shall be updated on a continual basis. 

E. Any procedure that is found to be a benefit to the City of Cleveland Fire Department and approved 

by the Fire Chief shall be utilized in conjunction with the procedures of the IFSTA Manuals. 





F. All procedures shall be taught by the City of Cleveland Fire Department’s training personnel (i.e. 

Chief Officers, Training Coordinator, Shift Instructors, Battalion Commanders, Company Officers 

or any qualified Fire Department personnel). 

Training Records 

Training records shall be processed and maintained by the Training Captain. 

Training Time Requirements 

The following section identifies the minimum required amounts of training time for various general 

training subjects. The forty (40) hours of in-service training is required of all Cleveland Fire Department 

fire suppression personnel. Under extreme circumstances the Fire Chief may waive this requirement on a 

case-by-case basis. This waiver shall be requested in writing, with a recommendation for approval/denial 

from the Training Captain and Battalion Commander. 

A. In-Service training time requirements per year. 

1. Eight (8) hours of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation 

2. Eight (8) hours of Hazardous Materials training. 

3. Four (4) hours of Stress Management, SIDS, Domestic Violence and/or Safety training. 

4. Twenty (20) hours of Fire Service related training relative to operations, departmental 

procedures, techniques and/or tactics. 

B. Minimum training time requirements per month per member. 

1. All personnel- Twenty (20) hours per month of a Fire Service related subject or a total of 

240 hours annually. 

2. Hazmat Technicians- To be developed 

3. EMS personnel- To be developed 





Table of Contents 

CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................. 1 

MISSION STATEMENT ...................................................................................................................................... 1 

INTRODUCTION MESSAGE ................................................................................................................................. 3 

REVISIONS TO GUIDELINES ................................................................................................................................ 6 

CHAPTER II ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE .................................................................................... 7 

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE ........................................................................................................................... 7 

FIRE PREVENTION DIVISION ............................................................................................................................ 10 

FIRE INVESTIGATION DIVISION ......................................................................................................................... 13 

CHAPTER III PROMOTIONS ........................................................................................................... 15 

PROMOTION POLICY ...................................................................................................................................... 15 

JOB DESCRIPTIONS ........................................................................................................................................ 19 

CHAPTER IV GENERAL ORDERS ...................................................................................................... 44 

GENERAL OPERATIONS ................................................................................................................................... 44 

GENERAL RULES ............................................................................................................................................ 49 

GENERAL RULES FOR OFFICERS ........................................................................................................................ 54 

CHAIN OF COMMAND .................................................................................................................................... 59 

ADDRESS/TELEPHONE INFORMATION ............................................................................................................... 60 

LOST OR DAMAGED EQUIPMENT ...................................................................................................................... 61 

MEMORANDUM BOOK .................................................................................................................................. 62 

STATION CLEAN‐UP ....................................................................................................................................... 63 

GROOMING STANDARDS ................................................................................................................................ 65 

PERSONAL MECHANIC WORK .......................................................................................................................... 67 

WASHING PRIVATE VEHICLES .......................................................................................................................... 68 

PART‐TIME EMPLOYMENT .............................................................................................................................. 69 

SEXUAL HARASSMENT .................................................................................................................................... 70 

SHIFT CHANGE .............................................................................................................................................. 71 

SICK LEAVE POLICY ........................................................................................................................................ 73 

UNIFORMS ................................................................................................................................................... 75 

VACATION SELECTION .................................................................................................................................... 78 

STAFFING ..................................................................................................................................................... 80 

TRADING TIME ............................................................................................................................................. 82 

OFF DUTY RECALL ......................................................................................................................................... 83 

DISCIPLINARY ACTION .................................................................................................................................... 86 

CHAPTER V ALARMS AND RESPONSES ............................................................................................ 92 

GENERAL RESPONSE AND FIREFIGHTING INSTRUCTIONS ....................................................................................... 92 

AUTOMATIC FIRE ALARMS .............................................................................................................................. 98 

CARBON MONOXIDE EMERGENCIES ............................................................................................................... 111 

CIVIL DISTURBANCES ................................................................................................................................... 116 

ELECTRICAL EMERGENCIES ............................................................................................................................ 119 

FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLES LIQUIDS AND GASES ...................................................................................... 122 

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS RESPONSE ............................................................................................................... 125 

RESPONSES TO VEHICLE RESCUE/EXTRICATION INCIDENTS .................................................................................. 139 





RESPONSES TO EMERGENCY MEDICAL INCIDENTS.............................................................................................. 142 

BIOHAZARD CLEANUP .................................................................................................................................. 144 

CHAPTER VI COMMAND AND COMPANY PROCEDURES .............................................................. 146 

INCIDENT COMMAND ................................................................................................................................... 146 

SAFETY OFFICER .......................................................................................................................................... 164 

RADIO PROCEDURES .................................................................................................................................... 165 

NEWS/MEDIA INFORMATION ....................................................................................................................... 171 

FIRST DUE COMPANIES ................................................................................................................................ 175 

ENGINE COMPANY OPERATIONS .................................................................................................................... 178 

STANDARD COMPANY FUNCTIONS ................................................................................................................. 191 

SUPPORT ACTIVITIES .................................................................................................................................... 193 

LADDER/TRUCK COMPANY OPERATIONS......................................................................................................... 196 

RESCUE OPERATIONS ................................................................................................................................... 238 

SPRINKLERS AND STANDPIPES ........................................................................................................................ 242 

CHAPTER VI I PUBLIC EDUCATION ................................................................................................. 247 

PUBLIC EDUCATION POLICY ........................................................................................................................... 247 

VISITORS ................................................................................................................................................... 249 

FIRE COMPANY DEMONSTRATIONS ................................................................................................................ 251 

STATION TOURS .......................................................................................................................................... 253 

CHAPTER VIII RECORDS ................................................................................................................. 255 

OPEN BURNING AND BURNING PERMITS ......................................................................................................... 255 

INCIDENT REPORTING .................................................................................................................................. 260 

CHAPTER IX HEALTH AND SAFETY ............................................................................................... 262 

VEHICLE OPERATIONS .................................................................................................................................. 262 

EMERGENCY EVACUATION ............................................................................................................................ 268 

FIRE GROUND SAFETY .................................................................................................................................. 271 

OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY ................................................................................................................................ 284 

PROTECTIVE CLOTHING ................................................................................................................................ 296 

PRIVATE OWNED VEHICLES ........................................................................................................................... 299 

WEARING AND CARE OF SCBA ..................................................................................................................... 300 

FIREARMS REGULATIONS .............................................................................................................................. 305 

PHYSICAL FITNESS TRAINING FACILITY ............................................................................................................. 309 

WELLNESS/PHYSICAL FITNESS PROGRAM ........................................................................................................ 310 

“FIT‐FOR‐DUTY” WORK PERFORMANCE EVALUATION ....................................................................................... 314 

CHAPTER X TRAINING .................................................................................................................... 318 

LIVE FIRE TRAINING ..................................................................................................................................... 318 

PRE‐FIRE PLANNING .................................................................................................................................... 324 

GENERAL TRAINING ..................................................................................................................................... 326 

TABLE OF CONTENTS ......................................................................................................................... 329 

CODE OF ETHICS .................................................................................................................................... 1 

DOCUMENT REVISION HISTORY ............................................................................................................. 2 



CLEVELAND FIRE DEPARTMENT 

Code of Ethics 

The Fire Service members and employees representing 

government bear the heavy responsibility of maintaining the honor 

and integrity of all government institutions. They shall, therefore, 

guard against placing themselves in a position in which any person 

can expect special consideration, or in which the public can 

assume that special consideration is being given. They shall 

conduct their personal and professional life to inspire public 

confidence and prevent personal gain or profit from being the 

object of their endeavors in whatever position they may hold. 

It shall be the duty of all Fire Service members to possess 

adequate knowledge to perform their job and to seek opportunities 

to learn more about their profession. They shall never jeopardize 

the safety of themselves or fellow firefighters and never claim 

unjustly qualifications they do not possess. In the exercise of the 

authority invested by the City Manager upon the Chief of the Fire 

Department, these rules and regulations are hereby adopted to 

govern the Fire Department and the discipline of its members and 

employees. 

Every member and employee of the Department shall agree 

to conform to these rules as are or may be adopted by the Chief of 

the Cleveland Fire Department.

Document Revision History 

1. 3/24/10, Page 47, Added Item L under Section “Visitors” 

2. 3/24/10, Page 19, Changed wording in section “Selection Criteria, letter A. Seniority” from “employees 

shall be given .25 points for each year of service” to “Employees shall be given (1) point for each year of 

service up to a maximum of (25) years of service” 

3. 4/14/10 Page 261, Seats Belts and General Safety, B: Emergency Response, No. 2; The section that 

states “All firefighting personnel shall wear a helmet with the chinstrap in place during the emergency 

response.” will be removed from the manual. (information, NFPA 1901, Section 14.1.8.4*) 

4. 9/29/10 Page 307, Moved “Physical Fitness Training Facility” to this location 

5. 9/29/10 Page 308, Insertion of “Wellness/Fitness Program” policy 

6. 9/29/10 Page 312, Insertion of “Fit-for-Duty” policy 

7. 9/29/10 Page 169, Media, Added to Responsibility, “At no time should personnel capture incidents on 

cell phones or other media for the purpose of being posted on any social websites or shared with the general 

public.” 

8. 10/8/2010 Page 308, Insertion of the latest “Wellness/Fitness Program” policy 

9. 1/27/2011 Page 78, Revised Kelly Day selection process under Vacation Selection policy 

10. 2/1/2011 Page 144, Insertion of a “Biohazard Cleanup” policy

SOP Manual - Cleveland Fire Department

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