By: Mike Roth, Ph.D., Retired Career Firefighter & Engineer
Fireground safety refers to the measures firefighters use to mitigate risks and hazards they face while operating at the scene of a fire. It includes personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, communication protocols, incident command systems, situational awareness, and continuous risk assessment. Fireground safety is focused on protecting firefighters and ensuring effective, efficient firefighting operations while protecting lives and property.
Why is Fireground Safety Critically Important?
Adhering to safety SOPs/SOGs and using appropriate PPE significantly reduces the risk of injuries and fatalities. Safe firefighting practices contribute to effective and coordinated operations on the fireground. When fire crews employ best practices for safety, they can complete tasks efficiently, coordinate with team members effectively, and make informed decisions under pressure.
In addition, proper fireground safety measures help prevent uncontrolled fire spread and minimize damage to structures and exposures. Firefighters must maintain high standards for fireground safety. Practicing the craft safely demonstrates professionalism and commitment, reinforcing the confidence of the public and stakeholders in the capabilities of our crews.
Important Tips for Fireground Safety
Preparation: The most important principle for fireground safety is preparation: we work to build the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to handle emergencies effectively. Well-prepared crews respond efficiently, mitigate risks, and protect their citizens safely.
Communications: Establish clear communication channels and protocols within firefighting teams and with incident command. The overwhelming majority of LODD reports list communication breakdowns chiefly among contributing factors. On the flip side, when we communicate effectively we act in a coordinated fashion, provide timely updates, and respond rapidly to changing conditions.
Continuous Training: Participate in regular training sessions, drills, and simulations to hone firefighting skills, familiarize with equipment, and practice coordinated actions as a team. Training reinforces safety practices and prepares firefighters for diverse scenarios.
Follow ISO instruction and Guidelines: Everyone on the fireground is responsible for the scene safety, but the Incident Safety Officer (ISOs) has the training, focus, and perspective to ensure that SOGs and SOPs are being followed. Your agency’s protocols are designed based on best practices and lessons learned to help you operate safely and efficiently.
Situational Awareness: Maintain awareness of your surroundings, fire behavior, structural integrity, and potential hazards. Continuously assess risks and adapt firefighting strategies accordingly.
Proper PPE Usage: Always wear and properly maintain (see preparation!) personal protective equipment, including turnout gear, helmets, gloves, and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Inspect your gear every shift and keep it clean. We all know that fireground risks follow us back to the station so take the simple measures necessary to reduce your exposure to smoke, soot, carcinogens, and other toxins. If your gear is soiled, take whatever measures are available to you to remove contaminants or replace your gear.
Buddy System: Use the buddy system to watch out for your buddy’s safety. Conduct regular check-ins and maintain visual and/or verbal contact during operations.
RIT and Mayday Procedures: Understand and follow Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) protocols and mayday procedures in case of firefighter entrapment or emergencies. Quick and effective response to distressed firefighters is paramount for safety.
Post-Incident Debriefing: Be an active participant in post-incident debriefings and discussions to review operations, identify lessons learned, and implement corrective actions. Continuous learning and improvement contribute to enhanced fireground safety. Every incident, no matter how large or small provides opportunities for improvement.
Proper fireground safety is the cornerstone of effective and successful firefighting operations. By prioritizing safety through proper training, equipment usage, communication, and risk assessment, firefighters can protect lives, property, and communities while fulfilling their vital role in emergency response. Continuous vigilance, adherence to protocols, and a culture of safety contribute to a safer fireground environment for all personnel involved.
As technology grows and evolves in the fire service, opportunities to improve fireground safety continue to emerge. Integrating wearable technologies, apparatus telematics, unmanned vehicles, and tactical management systems is opening new paths for assessing risk and increasing fireground awareness and safety. These tools alone do not solve the problem of fireground risk, but are another tool to add to a department’s tool box.
Emergent offers innovative technology solutions designed to enhance fireground safety and operational efficiency. With advanced tools such as incident management software, real-time tracking, and data-driven decision-making platforms, Emergent helps fire departments improve communication, situational awareness, and overall safety. Their integrated solutions empower teams to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies, reducing risks for firefighters and ensuring better outcomes in critical situations. Contact us to learn more about how Emergent’s technology can support your department’s safety efforts.
