Emergency Response Protocols for Fires, Collapses, and Floods

Fire Intervention Protocols

When responding to a fire, prioritize the protection of human life and property. Consider the number of occupants, their age, and the building's layout to prevent fire spread.

Safety Measures

• Act with caution, common sense, and professionalism.
• Identify escape routes and available fire protection equipment.
• Prevent panic and discourage jumping from windows.
• Establish a security cordon.
• Position emergency vehicles to allow for escape.
• Control access to the intervention area.
• Prepare for potential injuries and evacuation.
• Inform all participants of the situation.
• Locate nearby hydrants.
• Cut the electric current if the fire is electrical.
• Prevent Asphyxiation: Advise neighbors to stay low and cover faces with wet towels.
• Alert neighbors and assist within your capabilities.
• Do not act alone.
• Evacuate downwards.
• Open doors carefully to avoid backdrafts.
• When evacuating, move along walls and alert utility companies (gas, water, etc.).

Intervention in Structural Collapses

Collapses are often caused by fires and can lead to ruptured water or gas pipes.

Locating Victims

Locating victims in rubble is difficult and requires special equipment and search dogs. Two primary search procedures are used:

• Advanced Tracing: Systematic searching using longitudinal ropes or strips.
• Circular Drawing: Searching in increasingly large circles, focusing on the center where victims are likely located.

Police and Responder Actions

• Secure the area and restrict unauthorized access.
• If inside, take cover under tables or door frames.
• If on the street, move to open areas.
• If in a vehicle, move away from the site.
• Assess and assist the wounded in place; do not move them unless necessary.
• Listen for metallic noises.
• Shut off gas and electricity; avoid lighters or open flames.
• Avoid using radio transmitters near potential gas leaks.
• Check water pipes and avoid drinking contaminated water.

Intervention in Floods

Neighbors must be aware of alarm signals, designated rallying points, and instructions from the plan director.

Key Steps for Flood Response

• Conduct rapid inspections of buildings for collapse risks.
• Ensure access to safe drinking water.
• Notify relevant departments to manage deceased animals.
• Prevent residents from returning home until authorized.
• Maintain public safety and order.
• Search for victims in coordination with intervention groups.
• Disseminate official warnings to the population.
• Protect property against antisocial behavior.
• Control access and organize traffic in affected areas.