LFR Dive Team SOG's

Littleton Fire Rescue Dive Team Standard Operating Guidelines

7-2011

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Table of Contents SOG # 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127

Title Dive Ops Operational Responsibilities Diver Transport SCUBA Tank Pressure Communications Line Tugs Emergency Ascent Light Stick Dive Fins Post Exercise Equipment Service Dry Suit Care Mask Maintenance Dive Boat Ops Side Imaging Sonar Ops Rescue to Recovery Transition Surface Ice Rescue Swiftwater Ops Diver Safety Evidence Recovery and Documentation Ice Dive Operations Lift Operations Billing Procedures Decon Procedures Team Training Officer Responsibilities Team Shift Coordinator Responsibilities Med Dive Rapid Intervention Pack

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Littleton Fire Rescue

SOP # 316 J

Dive Rescue/Recovery

Implementation – 3/1/2002 Revised -

Dive Rescue/Recovery Purpose: To provide water related search, rescue and recovery. Missions include, but are not limited to, ice rescue, swift water rescue and recovery, underwater rescue and recovery, under ice rescue and recovery, evidence recovery and light salvage.

Scope: To provide water rescue and recovery, evidence recovery, and light salvage for the citizens served by Littleton Fire Rescue in the safest, most efficient and cost effective manner.

Policy: 1. Application to the Water Rescue Team a. Applicants interested in being a member of the Water Rescue Team must notify the team leader of their intentions in writing. b. This is a voluntary position with the Water Rescue Team. Team members may be compensated for training and team activities at the discretion of the Fire Chief. c. Applicants must be in good physical condition and must pass an annual physical fitness swim test of 500 yards and tread water for 15 minutes.

2. Training requirements a. New members must complete an approved open water certification course before participating in underwater operations. b. Members must successfully complete a Dive Rescue One (DRI) course or equivalent training before participating in an actual underwater search, rescue or recovery. c. Members must have completed an Ice Dive Operations course before conducting operations under ice. d. Regular participation in monthly team training is mandatory. Members who do not participate in a minimum of 75% of scheduled training may be subject to removal from the team.

3. Response a. If aired as water related incident, the automatic response will be Dive 16, two engines, a rescue, and a Battalion Chief. If Station 16’s crew is in quarters, they will respond in the Dive Van. If Station 16’s crew is out of the station, they will respond to the station, pick up the dive van and respond to the scene.

If Station 16’s crew is closer to the incident address, they will respond immediately to the scene. Station 16’s Officer is then responsible for notifying another responding unit to pick up the dive van. b. If it is determined that the “Dive Team” is needed after the initial call out, a dive response may be requested. It will be up to the discretion of the Incident Commander to request the appropriate unit(s). c. If the “Dive Team” is used, a fire ground channel should be requested by the Incident Commander or assigned by the Communications center.

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Dive Rescue/Recovery

4.

5.

6.

7.

SOP # 316 J

d. If more team members are required for the operation, the on duty Battalion Chief will recall remaining on-duty members. e. If off-duty Littleton Water Rescue Team members are needed for assistance, a designated team member will aid in calling members according to a call out list. The list is located in the Battalion Chief’s vehicle and the dive van. f. If further dive resources are needed, the Metro Dive Team can be called out through the West Metro Fire Department Communications Center, (303) 9690345.

Notification a. Team members are encouraged provide a means of contact, while off-duty, which allows for immediate notification in case of a Dive Team call out. A cellular telephone or pager number is recommended for each team member.

Telephone numbers will be provided in the Battalion Chief’s vehicle, and a copy will be kept on the Dive Van. b. On-duty personnel shall be contacted via the Battalion Chief. All arriving personnel should report to Operations Section Chief for assignment. c. A minimum of four team members should be requested for each water-related operation. The Incident Commander may at anytime request more resources.

All equipment will be brought to the staging area.

No personnel shall be permitted in the “warm zone” with out at least a PFD and/or any personal protective equipment that the Incident Commander deems necessary. The Incident Commander or Operations Section Chief will designate this area.

Operations a. The Incident Commander may or may not be a team member. b. The Water Rescue Team Leader or the senior team member will assume the position of Operations Section Chief. The Operations Section Chief will request and receive all resources through the Incident Commander. The Operations Section Chief will make all decisions as to which areas will be searched and which team functions will take place. c. All team members have the ability to stop or suspend any water related operation if they feel that there is any unsafe situation. However, any personnel may stop the operation for any reason they may feel is unsafe.

The Operations Section Chief and/or the Incident Commander are responsible for resuming the operation. d. No team member will participate in an activity unless trained for that specific area.

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES SECTION: SUBJECT: Responsibilities by Position

SOG# Page 1 Date:

Approved

PURPOSE: Guidelines for duties and responsibilities by member position before, during and after dive operations.

SCOPE:

To standardize efforts and reduce chance of duplication or the chance of not performing tasks during dive operations.

GUIDELINES: Dive Operations Section Chief: 1. Determine course of action.

2. Brief all members of team of their position and responsibilities prior to the beginning of operations.

3. Provide for safety in all matters.

4. Update command of all benchmarks.

5. Debrief all members after operation concludes.

6. Record operation of After Action Report (AAR).

Primary Diver: 1. Safely locate and retrieve objects underwater while taking care not to disturb possible evidence.

Back-Up Diver: 1. A diver at the dive location capable of rendering immediate assistance to a diver in the water.

Line Tender: 1. Responsible for conducting and documenting a pre-dive medical evaluation prior to diver getting dressed.

2. Assist diver with dressing according to the Diver Checklist.

3. Assist diver with doffing of equipment.

4. Conduct post dive medical evaluation including: a. Rapid Field Neuro Exam b. O2 administration via non-re-breather mask

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STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SECTION: Water Rescue Team SUBJECT: Transporting Divers on the Dive Boat

SOP# 003 Page 1 Date: 10-31-03

Approved

PURPOSE: To provide safe and effective transportation of the divers to and from the dive site.

SCOPE: To be followed any time the boat is in motion, moving from one dive site to another.

Policy: Divers will be transported in the prone position on the boat tubes entirely ready to enter the water.

This will include all items on the pre dive checklist. Tanks turned on, diver breathing ambient air through the Gill. Diver’s BCD’s will be 2/3rds inflated.

This action is to improve safety should the diver inadvertently fall into the water.

If the dive site is to be relocated all divers will be reloaded on the boat and ride in this same manner.

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STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SECTION: Water Rescue Team SUBJECT: Diver’s tank air pressure

SOP# 001 Page 1 Date: 10-31-03

Approved

PURPOSE: To assure that a safety margin of air is provided for the diver at all times.

SCOPE: This SOP applies to all dives, rescue, recovery and training.

POLICY: 1. All divers will surface with no less than 1000 psi. in their tanks.

2. Pressure checks will be done at least at 5 minute intervals.

3. If a pressure check cannot be completed the dive will be terminated immediately.

4. If the verbal communication system fails, the dive will be terminated via line tugs (three line tugs) immediately.

5. If the dive cannot be terminated via voice communication or line tugs the back-up diver shall deployed immediately.

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES SECTION: Operations SUBJECT: Communication verbiage

SOP# Page 1 Date:

Approved

PURPOSE: To provide a guideline of useful communications between diver (primary/backup) and tender during any dive operation.

SCOPE: To be use during all dive operations providing clear dialog.

Guidelines: After hard lines are in place, a test between tender and diver (primary/backup) needs to be completed prior to dive.

Attach the Recorder Device to the 2.5mm connection as shown.

A brief dialog between diver and tender, around five words, to lessen diver fatigue and keep messages clear, performed every few minutes.

At anytime a change of action is required a verbal request will be given from the tender to the diver I.E “left hand search, change of direction,” followed by line signals as a backup.

Monitoring of the divers breathing and work effort are a primary responsibility of the tender. If a diver is laboring during a task, a communication needs to be made to attempt to slow the divers breathing, I.E. “Can you slow your breathing down?” or “ how are you doing?”

If at anytime a diver sounds like they might be in trouble or loss of communications without line signals confirming diver is okay the I.C. should be notified and the backup diver put into service.

Breakdown: After the operation is complete the headset needs to be disconnected to power down the unit. If this is left connected the unit will continue to stay powered up and drain the batteries. **The only time it is necessary to open the battery compartment is to replace dead batteries. The internal workings of the comm. unit are extremely delicate and can be easily damaged if handled excessively.** 8

STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES SECTION: Operation SUBJECT: Line Tug Communication

SOG# 101 Page 1 Date: 10-31-03

Approved

PURPOSE: To provide a back-up form of communication.

SCOPE: To be used only as a back-up to verbal communication.

POLICY: Line tugs will only be used as back-up communication to verbal communication and will be as follows.

From tender to diver One tug = “are you OK” Two tugs= “change directions” Three tugs = “come to the surface” Four tugs = “danger stay down” From diver to tender One tug = “I am OK” Two tugs = “more line” Three tugs = “object found” Four tugs = “help send back-up diver”

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STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SECTION: Water Rescue Team SUBJECT: Post emergency ascent procedures

SOP# 002 Page 1 Date: 10-31-03

Approved

PURPOSE: To provide care and documentation after an emergency ascent has occurred.

SCOPE: To be done after all emergency ascents.

POLICY: Any time a diver has an emergency ascent any obvious injuries will be treated, and decompression sickness suspected, and the following shall occur.

1. A rapid neuro check and vitals will be done and documented as soon as possible and repeated every 15 minutes thereafter until 90 minutes has passed since the ascent.

2. This diver will not be allowed to dive again for the next 24 hours.

3. A report will be made in writing to the team leader containing the circumstances surrounding the emergency ascent and documentation of the dive, and records of post dive care.

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES SECTION: Operations SUBJECT: Light Sticks

SOG# Page 1 Date:

Approved

PURPOSE: To increase visibility of diver during day and night dive operations. Light sticks may also be used as a “light” to visualize your pressure gauge or to provide light to complete task.

SCOPE: This procedure shall apply to all dives.

POLICY: 1. All BCD’s shall be equipped with light sticks.

2. All light sticks shall be placed on the right shoulder of the BCD and tied securely with a zip tie.

3. Light sticks shall be used for both day and night dives.

4. Light sticks shall be activated prior to diver entering water. To activate light stick – bend stick in half until you hear a snap. Light stick should light up immediately.

5. Light sticks shall be changed/replaced after each dive.

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES SECTION: SUBJECT: Use and care of dive fins

SOG# Page 1 Date:

Approved

PURPOSE: Proper procedures for donning, doffing and care of dive fins.

SCOPE:

To prolong life of dive fins and give a basic guideline of operation.

GUIDELINES: Donning: 1. If possible diver should be seated.

2. With assistance place foot as deep into the fin boot as possible.

3. Place heel strap high up on the back of the heel above the heal lock on the dry suit.

4. With buckles open tighten straps by pulling straight back and not “OUTWARDS” then secure buckles and make any adjustments for diver comfort.

Doffing: 1. If possible diver should be seated.

2. Unlock buckles and release straps.

3. Remove strap from heel.

4. Use body of fin to remove from foot.

5. Place equipment in designated equipment area.

Storage: 1. One set of fin in each dive ready bag.

2. Spare fins should be located in the proper compt.

3. Unlock and release all straps storing in the ready position.

Care: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Rinse with tap water after each use.

If needed use mild soap and water.

Allow to air dry before storing Inspect fins, straps and buckles for any damage.

If damage is found, fill all paper work out according to the SOG’s.

Tag fin/fins and remove from service for repair or replacement.

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES SECTION: SUBJECT: After Dive Training, Equipment Service

SOP# Page 1 Date:

Approved

PURPOSE: Procedures for service of equipment after training or call-out.

SCOPE: Procedures to be completed after use in conjunction with other detailed SOGs. GUIDELINE: Complete a basic equipment inventory before leaving the scene.

Secure all loose equipment on boat and trailer.

Inspect/Rinse/Dry all equipment used for operation.

Inventory/Restore DIVE READY BAG. Reload weight pouches 16 POUNDS each.

Refill low bottles 3000p.s.i / Inspect O-Ring Clean/Vacum interior of Dive Van. Fuel Dive Van. Inspect/Clean Trailer hitch, chains, tires, turn signals, and brake lights Inspect/Clean Dive Boat Inspect Motor Mounts, Transom Mounts, Prop and Battery/Fuel connections.

Fuel boat tank 50/1.

Inspect, Clean, Fuel and Check Oil in PWC

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINE SECTION: SUBJECT: Dry suit care

SOP# Page 1 Date:

Approved

PURPOSE: Proper procedures for cleaning and drying Dry Suits after a dive.

SCOPE: To be done after each dive.

GUIDELINE: Outside of suit: If the outside of the suit has been contaminated, clean with a mild dish or liquid laundry detergent. Mix detergent in a bucket of warm water and scrub with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water.

If the outside has not been contaminated by anything except lake or river water, rinse thoroughly with fresh water.

Inside of suit: Note any leaks in suit and log.

If the inside of the suit has been contaminated turn the suit inside out and clean with a mild liquid detergent.

Be very careful with the neck and wrist cuffs as they tear easily.

Rinse thoroughly if the suit has leaked lake or river water.

Drying suit Turn suit right side out.

Slide the capped end of the arm tube into one arm of the dry suit through the back of the suit until the other end of the tube can slide into the opposite arm. Slide the tube into the other arm until the tube extends 6 inches past the cuff.

Put one leg tube in each leg of the dry suit, Making sure you have the right length tube.

(The long tubes will not fit in the medium suits).

Slide leg tubes into the arm tube couplings.

Zip up suit.

Stand upside down and lean against the wall.

Slip dryer connection over the open end of arm tube.

Plug in dryer.

Suit will inflate and air should escape from the hood.

Drying time should be approximately 2 hours.

Suit Storage Remove tubes and check suit for damage.

Rub talcum powder on the neck and wrist cuffs.

Roll suit up starting with boot ends.

Leave zipper open.

Place in correct size bag. (They are marked with sizes.)

Place on dive van.

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES SECTION: DIVIATOR MK-II FULL FACE MASK SUBJECT: MAINTANENCE & OPERATION

SOP# Page 1 Date:

Approved

PURPOSE: To ensure safe and proper use of the mask and increase the reliability of the system SCOPE: STORAGE- Mask is to be stored in the blue mask bag at all times with the straps extended, gill in the open position and air hose connected to regulator.

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DONING- Seat mask in desired position and pull straps GENTLY STRAIGHT BACK until snug. Start with bottom straps and work to the top strap. Readjust straps as needed for proper seal.

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DOFFING- Release tension on straps to aide in easy removal of mask and put back in blue bag as soon as you can. Do not allow mask to rest on sand or other areas that can contaminate the system.

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CLEANING- After use leave the mask connected to an air source, immerse the mask and regulator in clean fresh water. Press the purge button and allow air to pass through the mask and 2nd stage until the valve is dry.

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IF the mask is extremely dirty or after prolonged use contact Willis via email so mask and 2nd stage can be taken apart, cleaned and lubed.

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The rubber and silicone parts of the mask should be cleaned with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and be allowed to dry before re assembly.

During cold weather operations it is paramount the mask and regulator stay in a dry place until use, and should not be used again until the regulator can be thoroughly lubed and dried.

For all repairs and requests contact Willis and team leaders via email.

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STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SECTION: SUBJECT: Dive Boat Operations

SOP# Page 1 Date: 01-21-05

Approved

PURPOSE: Proper operation, maintenance and safety in regards to the Zodiac (Mark III) and Mercury motor.

SCOPE: To be carry out during every use of dive boat operations.

GUIDELINES: Zodiac: • Compartment pressure should be equal in all three compartments with the pressure no less 50% rated capacity which is 3-85 PSI, when correctly inflated, the internal bulkhead are not visible, this will be a constant change due to the air and water temp, if unsure use a access pressure indicator or stop inflating when the foot-pump gets difficult to operate.

• ISO capacity is 9 people with a maximum weight load of 2667lbs including motor, gear, equipment and people.

Mercury Outboard: Operation: Pre-start checks • Operator knows safe navigation, boating and operating procedures • Approved personal flotation devices of suitable size for each person aboard • Ring type or buoyant cushion designed to be thrown to a person in the water • Boat maximum load capacity • Fuel supply OK • Arrange passengers and load in the boat so that the weight is distributed evenly and everyone is seated • Know the water and area you will be boating; tides, currents, sand bars, rocks and Colorado Parks boating statues and regulations • Fuel needs to a mixture of oil and gasoline in the ratio of 50:1, use a 2cycle fuel mixture oil and 87-octane gasoline.

• Starting engine = Open fuel tank vent if applicable, squeeze fuel line primer bulb until firm, place lanyard stop switch to RUN, throttle needs to be in the neutral/start position, pull and push primer/idle speed knob 1-3 times leave in the out position with one full turn counter clockwise, push starter button for no longer that 10 sec., if motor fails to start wait 30 sec. And try again, push in primer/idle speed knob when motor is running smoothly, if flooded push in primer/idle speed knob turn one full turn clockwise and continue to 16

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•

crank motor, once started pull primer/idler speed knob until motor is warm, if electric start fails use manual start by pulling the starter rope until starter engages, then pull rapidly to crank the engine, allow rope to return slowly and repeat until motor starts, never start motor without water circulation through the cooling system even momentarily.

Gear shifting = There are 3 shift positions F, R, N/Start, do not shift outboard into reverse gear when the motor is not running this could damage the gear shift mechanism, align throttle grip pointer in the direction that you want to travel, always shift outboard with a quick motion, after shifting into gear, advance the throttle to increase speed.

Stopping engine = reduce speed and shift the outboard to neutral position, push in the engine stop button and remove the lanyard stop switch to the off position.

Maintenance: • Check to ensure that the lanyard stop switch stops the motor • Inspect fuel system for leaks or deterioration • Check outboard for tightness on transom • Check propeller blades for damage • Flush out the outboard cooling system if used in salt or polluted water Annually • Lubricate all lubrication points • Inspect and clean spark plugs • Check fuel line filter • Check carburetor adjustments • Check corrosion control anodes • Drain and replace gear case oil • Lubricate splines on drive shaft • Inspect battery • Remove engine deposits • Tighten all bolts, nuts and other fasteners • Clean fuel tank pick-up filter • Check all electrical fuses

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINE SECTION: SUBJECT: Sonar Operations

SOG# Page 1 Date: 07-25-06

Approved

PURPOSE: Standardize Search Operation Procedures Utilizing Sonar Equipment GUIDELINES: 1. Equipment: a. Side Imaging Sonar i. Sonar is stored in tall closed in hard case. ii. Install Sonar Equipment on Boat

iii. Ensure Transducer is still in retracted position when mounted.

iv. Hook up power cables to the battery. v. DO NOT TURN ON THE UNIT UNTIL THE TRANSDUCER IS IN THE WATER!!!

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2. Grid work and Target ID a. Define reasonable location and size of area to be searched. i. Depth and size of the target will dictate the amount of searchable area. ii. If the target submersion was witnessed, utilize last seen point. b. Keep grid lines reasonably straight with appropriate overlap.

c. Area covered by Sonar

Area of Overlap

Path of Boat

d. Document all potential targets using capture feature on Sonar unit.

3. Triangulation of potential target. a. Mark a potential target’s location utilizing GPS.

b. Change Sonar screen to Real Time Sonar Screen

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c. Drive boat directly over GPS coordinates and when the target enters the screen drop marker buoy off back of boat. d. Drive past target 75 feet and turn around 180 degrees and drive directly over the target again. e. When the target enters the screen again, drop a second marker buoy off the back of the boat. f. Turn boat and head 90 degrees from current heading. Drive boat 75 feet from target. g. Turn boat and head towards GPS coordinates of the target. h. Drive the boat between the two marker buoys and when the target enters the screen again, drop a third marker buoy.

Marker Buoy

Potential Target

Path of boat

i. Drop swivel anchor in middle of three marker buoys.

4. Attempt to confirm target utilizing appropriate search patterns. a. All Marker Buoys Must be REMOVED From the Water Prior to Divers Entering The Water!!!!!

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES SECTION: Operations SUBJECT: Rescue and Recovery Dive Operations

SOG# Page 1 Date:

Approved

PURPOSE: To provide a guidelines for Rescue Dive Operations, Recovery Dive Operations and establish an orderly transition from Rescue to Recovery mode SCOPE: This guideline is established to provide the criteria to be used on all Dive Rescue Operations, Body Recovery Operations and the transition between the two.

POLICY: Rescue Mode Time Limit It has been established that a body is a viable victim for up to one hour after being submerged. Based on this information dive operations will be conducted in the “Rescue Mode� until it is established that the body has been submerged for more than one hour. This time will be estimated by the incident commander from the best known time of submersion. If no time of submersion is known the one hour time limit will started from the time the Fire Department arrives at the scene and establishes that a body is under the water.

Rescue Dive Operations The dive operation will be initiated according to SOP #316 J. Time is of the essence when operating in rescue dive mode. The sooner a body is recovered the better the chance for survival. Therefore the risk benefit analysis (SOP #315 C) may require more risk to be taken in order to have the chance to save a life. It will be the decision of the on scene Operations Section Chief whether the dive is allowed to start before a back-up diver is in place. Rescue Dive Operations will continue until the one hour time limit has passed. At this time all dive operations will be ceased and recovery dive operations will begin.

Recovery Dive Operations Before a Recovery dive can begin, all dive operations will stop. All objectives and previous operations will be reviewed. Only after all risk has been minimized will the recovery dive be allowed to begin. All safety features will be in place including but not limited to a back-up diver and ready diver. Additional divers may be required. It will be at the option of the Operations Section Chief to call in off duty dive team members. All attempts will be made to document and preserve evidence. The body should be placed in either a body bag or the body recovery system while still in the water and then transferred to the coroner.

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STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SECTION: SUBJECT: Swift Water

SOP# Page 1 Date: 01-09-08

Approved

Purpose: To define swiftwater and identify how swiftwater (i.e. streams, rivers, or localized flooding) incidents shall be managed.

Policy: Swiftwater can be defined as any water that is moving at a speed of equal to and/or greater than one (1) mile per hour and may be encountered at any time of the year.

Specialized equipment and techniques must be used to ensure safety at swiftwater incidents.

Procedure: 1. First arriving apparatus shall report the “last seen point” (LSP).

2. First arriving apparatus shall provide size-up: type of incident, number of victims, locations, access points, hazards, etc.

3. First arriving officer shall deploy or assign a downriver safety/spotter with Personal Flotation Device (PFD), radio, and throw bags (each person should take at least 2 throw bags) a sufficient distance downstream. Safety/Spotter should look for and report hazards to include strainers, low head dams, bridge abutments, and any other visible hazards.

4. All personnel working at a swiftwater incident where an inadvertent action may cause a member to fall into the water (within 10 feet of waters edge or near bank) shall wear a PFD. Type-III PFDs are recommended as a minimum.

5. Personnel working in or near the water shall utilize only swiftwater helmets.

No structural firefighting, technical or rock helmets are to be used.

6. Ice Rescue Suits shall not be used.

7. No personnel shall be tethered to a rope system, unless it is through the D-ring with quick release clasp on a Rescue PFD, allowing for quick release by the rescuer.

8. Only qualified Dive Team personnel shall enter moving water with the proper training and PPE. 9. If rescue or recovery involves a hydraulic the Zodiac with a 4 or 2 line system should be employed from down river of hydraulic.

10. Other considerations: ALS transportation mode for victim(s) i.e. Ambulance, helicopter, EMS cart and additional personnel. Have a plan and a back up plan (don’t put all your eggs in one basket) be prepared for the worst.

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINE SECTION: SUBJECT: Diver Safety

SOP# 118 Page 1 Date: 01-09-08

Approved

Purpose: To outline safety procedures for water rescue, recovery and training operations.

Policy: Water Operations are inherently dangerous and pose special hazards to Dive Team members. Minimum safety standards and procedures are imperative to safe operations.

Procedure: 1) Definition: An Underwater Operation includes any Rescue, Recovery or Open Water Training session.

2)

Underwater Operations Teams will, at a minimum, consist of a Primary Diver, Backup Diver and a Line Tender and a 90% Safety Diver and backup line tender. A Risk/Benefit analysis may dictate initiating a Rescue with less than the minimum number of Dive Team members. This shall be at the discretion of the Primary Diver.

3)

A minimum of one Team of Divers will be assembled prior to initiating any underwater operation.

4)

Prior to entering the water to initiate an underwater operation, the Line Tender(s) shall perform pre-dive checks on all divers using the Pre-Dive Checklist.

5)

A dedicated ALS transport unit will be on the scene of all underwater operations. The exception to this is basic certification and recertification classes where the instructor will have O2, a 1st aid kit, communications and an emergency plan.

6)

Divers shall wear drysuits and full face masks for any underwater operation.

7)

Hardwire communications shall be the equipment of choice on all Rescue and Recovery Operations, or any time hazards are unknown or deemed to warrant such use. Wireless communications made be used at the discretion of the Dive Operations Officer, or Training Instructor, if the use of hardwire communications would increase entanglement due to existing conditions.

8)

The Dive RIT Pack shall be staged as follows for any underwater operation or training: a. On shore – if the operation is shore-based. b. In the boat – if the operation is boat-based.

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9)

Recovery Operations should not be initiated after dusk. Rescue Operations that progress into a Recovery shall be re-evaluated at such time that fading natural light hampers operations.

10) Dives shall be limited to a maximum depth of 60’ for 20 minutes and divers shall end their dives with a minimum of 1000 psi, back at the surface. Dives that require exceeding the 60’ maximum depth shall be planned out to stay within the Doppler Limits using both the US Navy Dive and altitude conversion tables.

11) Divers shall be tethered on all open water dives using a chest or weight harness, carabiner(s), and a quick release snap shackle. Penetration (ice) dives shall replace the snap shackle with a locking carabiner to ensure a closed system.

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STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SECTION: SUBJECT: Evidence Recovery and Documentation

SOP# Page 1 Date: 01-09-08

Approved

Purpose: To define how items determined to be evidence or possible evidence shall be recovered, packaged, and process documented.

General considerations: 1) As a general rule, Littleton Dive Rescue will not search for evidence without a credible witness present on scene to provide a last seen point, i.e. law enforcement must bring the witness to the scene – no 2nd or 3rd hand information.

2) Use resources available to you to get the best investigation done. Consider using subject matter experts in investigations i.e. pilots for aircraft accidents.

3) Consider hazards present on the scene a) Aircraft: fuel, ejection seats, weapons, sharp edges b) Vehicles: fuel, cargo, battery acid, oil c) Water bodies: dam intake/outlets, siphons, currents, culverts, snag/strainer hazards.

Procedure: 1) Body Recovery: Observe the following a) Contact lividity, white marks left in the skin of the victim at the point where the blood was pushed away from the skin as the blood settled. b) The victim’s hands for signs of cadaveric spasm and peeling of the skin. Also bag the hands prior to moving the body. c) Immediately upon surfacing, check the victim’s eyes. d) If removal of the body is going to cause additional loss of evidence such as contents in vehicle or altering controls in an aircraft accident, raise the body with the aircraft or vehicle.

2) Weapon (gun) Recovery a) Although submerged, a weapon has potential forensic value so that the tactile examination of a “hit” is done carefully, without haste and minimally invasive procedure(s). b) Once the diver locates the item, the diver will advise the tender on topside. The diver should then note specifics such as visibility, depth, water temperature, and any other reference information previously requested by the criminal investigator. c) The tender should note the distance the diver was deployed and mark the location using a variety of approved methods (GPS, triangulation, marker buoy). d) The prosecution and the defense to establish and/or challenge the chain of custody will use the evidence log. Once the item has been packaged under water, it shall be labeled with: i) Name of recovery diver ii) Date iii) Time iv) Location 25

v) An evidence log should be maintained each time the evidence changes custody and shall record the following: vi) Who received the evidence vii) From whom the evidence was received viii) Date ix) Time x) Location e) Weapons recovered by underwater investigators shall be presumed to be loaded and will fire under water. Whenever possible, the weapon is packaged without altering anything from its original circumstances, it may be necessary to collect bottom sediment with the weapon to retain evidence. As a general rule, keep evidence wet until processed in the lab. f) It is necessary to obtain a “bottom� sample. The bottom sample serves as a control for background contamination. g) Remember to search an area surrounding the recovered weapon or evidence for additional evidence. Often spent cartridges and casings are disposed of separately but in the same area. A cursory examination of the area of discovery may disclose related evidence. h) Dry evidence (on shore) should be placed in paper bags, wet evidence placed in container with water from the recovery area.

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STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SECTION: SUBJECT: Ice Dive Operations

SOP# Page 1 Date: 01-09-08

Approved

Purpose: To outline safety procedures for Ice and other Penetration Dives.

Policy: Penetration dives are potentially the most dangerous underwater operations conducted by Littleton Fire Rescue. Minimum safety standards and procedures are imperative to safe operations.

Procedure: 1. First arriving apparatus to respond to “last seen point” and establish incident command (ICS) 2. Size-up to include: a. Define mode of operation: Rescue vs. Recovery b. Number of victims c. Last seen point d. Ice conditions: stability and accessibility i. Accessibility: apparatus, personnel, equipment e. Additional resources: ALS/Transport mode, surface support personnel (3:1/support:diver) (Ice dive requires minimum of three (3) divers) 3. All personnel working on or near the ice shall wear PFDs, Surface Ice Rescue Suit, or USCG exposure suit with built in flotation.

4. SCUBA RIT pack to be staged as close to hole and backup diver as practical and allowed by ice conditions.

5. Distribute weight of equipment and personnel; keep personnel spread out and non-essential personnel off ice.

6. Secure diver line to adequate anchor on shore or boat on ice.

7. All divers shall dive with a closed system communications line (tied into diver using locking carabiner to weight harness or chest harness).

8. For every diver in the water, there shall be one backup diver (fully dressed with mask on and gill open) and one 90% diver (90% dressed – everything on except mask and fins).

9. All divers shall adhere to the 1000 psi rule (all dives shall end with 1000 psi minimum).

10. Continue to monitor ice conditions throughout duration of incident. Protect equipment and personnel as ice deteriorates.

Lost Diver Procedure: Lost Diver – Ice Dive 1. Once diver recognizes they have become disconnected and/or lost, diver will perform a slow ascent to the surface and remain in vertical position with arms extended overhead to provide the largest possible vertical “target” for surface snag pattern.

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2. Tender to leave rope/communication line in water and use for location/direction and tie double knot in to secure distance marker. Tender will take a bearing on the last known location of the lost diver.

3. Rescue Diver to swim out at 30o angle from lost diver tender line and 30’ longer than lost diver line and conduct a surface snag pattern.

1) If lost diver is not located with initial pattern, consider that diver may be “pushed” further out with subsequent divers being “splashed” into hole.

2) If surface snag pattern(s) are not successful, consider transitioning to bottom dive patterns.

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STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES SECTION: SUBJECT: Lift Operations

SOP# Page 1 Date: 01-09-08

Approved

Purpose: To outline safety procedures for operations using underwater lift bags.

Policy: Underwater lift operations are inherently dangerous and pose special hazards to Dive Team members. Minimum safety standards and procedures are imperative to safe operations.

Procedure: 12) Definition: An Underwater Lift Operation includes any use of air filled lift bags, in excess of 50 lbs of lift, to raise an object from the bottom of a body of water for recovery purposes.

13) Lift bags in excess of 50 lbs of lift capacity will not be filled from the diver’s air supply.

14) Must have knowledge of lift object and proper attachment points, if not knowledgeable of object ie. airplane or unique watercraft seek information prior to lift attempt.

15) Lifts from depths in excess of 40 feet shall be done as stage lifts in 20 foot increments with all bags in place prior to the initial lift. Stage lifts should use a 5/8” static kernmantle rope or recovery webbing straps rated at 12,500 lbs as a minimum to support the main load. Carabiners used for attachment or daisychaining of recovery straps should also be rated at a minimum of 12,500 lbs.

16) Lifts will be controlled from the surface, either on shore or from a boat, using approved manifolds with built in overpressure safety devices.

17) All divers must be clear of the lift area while the lift is in progress. No divers will be permitted to “ride” an object being lifted.

18) When towing a lift object with a boat, the tow line must be at least twice as long as the greatest depth to be traversed to allow for potential failure of the lift, without jeopardizing the safety of the tow vehicle. Consider possible release of the object (cutting the line) either unintentional or on purpose and ready to mark location with H-float, GPS or both.

19) Divers should never position themselves below a suspended object. All lifts should be treated as though they will fail at any time.

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES SECTION: Dive Team Administration

SOG# 122 Page 1 Date:

SUBJECT: Billing Procedures

Approved

PURPOSE: To clarify the policy of the Littleton Fire Rescue Dive Team regarding billing.

SCOPE:

All non-rescue incidents that occur inside of agency boundaries are subject to standard charges as set forth below. Rescues will not be charged until such time as the Dive Operations Officer determines that the incident is no longer a rescue. Fees may change at any time with the approval of the Littleton Fire Rescue.

Procedure: 1.

Establish the type of Response Mode.

Response Level Pricing – Initial Response Pricing – Additional Hours Apparatus Personnel

Level I

Level II

$1600.00 4 hours maximum $550.00 / hour

$2400.00 4 hours maximum $825.00 / hour

($350.00 personnel $200.00 van)

($525.00 personnel $300.00 van)

1 Van 6 Divers minimum

1 Van 9 Divers minimum

2.

Develop operational plan in accordance with LFR SOP 316J & LFR Dive Team SOG 118.

3.

Complete and submit the LFR Dive Team Billing Form to the team leader for billing purposes. See attached.

The Dive Operations Officer, or the designee who files the billing report, may “downgrade” the cost of the response at his/her discretion. When billed, all responses shall be billed for a minimum of four hours. If the incident lasts more than the initial four hours, an hourly rate shall be added.

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Littleton Fire Rescue Dive Team Billing Information Form

Incident Information Incident Number : Incident Address : Law Enforcement Agency : County :

Incident Date : Other Agency : State :

Response Type: (Check One) Response Level Pricing – Initial Response Pricing – Additional Hours Apparatus Personnel

Level I

Level II

$1600.00 4 hours maximum $550.00 / hour ($350.00 personnel $200.00 van) 1 Van 6 Divers minimum

$2400.00 4 hours maximum $825.00 / hour ($525.00 personnel $300.00 van) 1 Van 9 Divers minimum

Ownership Information Person Responsible: Address: Phone: Insurance Company: Phone: Contact Person (agent): Vehicle Make: VIN / CL# : State Registered in:

Vehicle Model: License Number:

Littleton Fire Rescue 31

Dive Team Billing Information Form

Operational Information Name

LFR Dive Personnel Assignment

Total Hours

LFR Equipment Equipment

Cost

Other Costs Description

Name

Cost

LFR Dive Injuries Injury

Attending Medical

Incident Commander: Date:

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES SECTION: Operations SUBJECT: Diver Decon Procedures

SOP# 123 Page 1 Date:

Approved

PURPOSE: To provide a guideline for the post operational decontamination of divers and equipment as well as categorize contamination levels that will make it easy to determine the type of Decon needed for the divers as well as equipment.

SCOPE: To be used after all dive operations where divers have been exposed to possible biological or chemical contaminants.

Contamination Level Categories: Category 1: Highest Contamination.

Grossly contaminated with chemical or microbiological contamination. Examples include heavy fuel slicks and sewage operations. This type of environment should not be entered by LFR Dive Team Members.

Category 2: Moderate Contamination.

Increased levels of both chemical and microbiological contamination are expected.

Examples include moderate fuel spills encountered during salvage operations or increased microbiological contaminants which may be encountered during rescue or recovery operations.

Category 3: Baseline Contamination.

No expectation of contamination above baseline that is normal for human habitation.

Category 4: No Contamination.

This includes situations where no contamination sources are known or expected such as drinking water reservoirs or swimming pools.

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Decon Procedures: Diver / Personal PPE Decon: Category 2 & 3: Decon will be the same for types 2 and 3 contamination categories. Divers will leave the water after their operation and while still encapsulated in AGA mask to be hosed down with 2.5 gallon Decon Extinguisher.

Runoff should be collected using small containment pool if necessary.

After the diver is completely covered by the decon solution the diver will be rinsed with fresh water from the exterior shower on D16. Runoff should be collected using small containment pool if necessary.

Category 4: Diver PPE and all other equipment will be rinsed with fresh water upon completion of this operation and allowed to air dry.

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES SECTION: Operations SUBJECT: LFR Dive Team Training Officer Responsibilities

SOP# 124 Page 1 Date: 12-252009

Approved

Purpose: To establish a position which will gather, evaluate and monitor the education and operation of the LFR Dive Team and its members. All responsibilities of this position will be completed by or at the direction of the LFR Dive Team Training Division Officer.

Responsibilities: 1. LFR Dive Team Qualification Program a. Establish and define the behaviors that the LFR Dive Team will endorse as practiced standards. b. Develop specialized disciplines to provide planned and predictable operations from all aspects of LFR Dive Team Operations.

2. LFR Dive Team Continuing Education a. Select continuing education topics based on i. Operational frequency ii. Recognized deficiencies iii. Standard refresher items pertinent to LFR Qualification Program b. Develop Continuing Education Schedule i. Developed for 12 sessions (1 per month) ii. Finalized and available to team members in December of the prior year c. Coordinate necessary facilities and dates 3. Accredited Certification Programs a. Solicit member interest b. Gather information for Certified Programs c. Coordinate member participation in Certified Programs d. Maintain certified training records for trend analysis 4. Continue to evaluate and pursue the vision of the LFR Dive Team.

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINES SECTION: Operations SUBJECT: LFR Dive Team Shift Coordinator Responsibilities

SOP# 125 Page 1 Date: 7-24-2010

Approved

Purpose: To establish a position which will gather, evaluate, monitor and maintain the operation of the LFR Dive Team Shift and its members. All responsibilities of this position will be completed by or at the direction of the LFR Dive Team leader.

Responsibilities: 5. Operational Readiness a. Review, recommend and develop operation response policy based on mission success, diver safety and industry accepted best practices.

6. Personnel Management a. Monitor diver development. i. Assist divers in setting and achieving goals.

7. Records Management a. Maintain diver qualification and training records.

8. Equipment Management a. Insure equipment is a good state of readiness. b. Make or direct repairs which are within your scope. c. Assist in readiness of equipment for training operations.

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINE SECTION: SUBJECT: Med Dive

SOP# 126 Page 1 Date: 01-09-08

Approved

Purpose: To outline procedures for the recognition and treatment of a Littleton Fire Dive Team member who has suffered a dive related injury or illness.

Policy: Under Water Operations are inherently dangerous and pose special hazards to Dive Team members. Public safety dive operations introduce specific areas of elevated risk of injury or illness to divers due to the unpredictability of the time of the dive, depth of the dive, environmental conditions of the dive and also the inherent stress of the types of dive conducted. Minimum medical standards and procedures are imperative to provide appropriate care to divers who may suffer a dive related injury or illness.

Procedure: 1. Types of Dive Related Injuries and Illness a. Decompression Sickness (DCS) – DCS can be classified as either pain only or neurological or both. The cause is a venous gas emboli. DCS can mimic many medical disorders including; spinal cord injuries, sprains and strains, heart attacks and CVA. Typically DCS signs and symptoms present within 30-60 minutes of the dive. Occasionally the symptoms can present much later. All divers should maintain a high suspicion of possible dive related DCS for 24 hours following a dive. b. Pulmonary Barotraumas i. Air Emobolis ii. Pnuemothorax iii. Emphysema 2. Standard Medical Practice – Every diver shall be medically evaluated prior to and following every dive. The evaluation shall consist of: a. Rapid Field Neuro Exam b. Vital Signs (BP, Pulse) 3. Recognition/Identification a. DCS Symptoms i. Skin Symptoms: - Itching - Skin Rashes - Swelling - Skin Discoloration 37

ii. Pain: - Located in the joints, shoulder blades, low back and abdomen - May shoot down the diver’s arms or legs - Mild to sever in nature - May come and go, or be relieved by O2 administration iii. Audio vestibular Symptoms: - Nausea and vomiting - Un-coordination and lack of balance - Difficulty walking -Jerking eye movements (Nystagmus) - Hearing loss iv. Neurological Symptoms: - Numbness, tingling, or burning skin sensations - A loss of hot, cold, vibration, or pressure sensations - Weakness or paralysis of the arms and/or legs - An inability to urinate - Extreme fatigue - Headache v. Cardiopulmonary Symptoms: - Chest pain -Shortness of Breath - Irregular pulse - Severe coughing - Shock - Cardiac arrest 4. Treatment a. Treatment for all dive related injuries are as follows: -Rapid Field Neuro - Vitals - O2 - IV - Monitor - Transport to nearest facility for immediate care.

-Coordinate with PSL for the start up and use of the Compression Chamber.

-Relate information regarding the depth of the dive and the possible injury or illness.

5. Future Considerations of an Injured Diver.

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STANDARD OPERATING GUIDELINE SECTION: SUBJECT: Dive Team Rapid Intervention Pack (RIP)

SOP# 127 Page 1 Date: 3-29-2011

Approved

Purpose: To outline safety procedures for water rescue, recovery and training operations.

Policy: Water Operations are inherently dangerous and pose special hazards to Dive Team members. Minimum safety standards and procedures are imperative to safe operations. A Rapid Intervention Pack (RIP) has been designed to provide a continuous air supply to a distressed diver who is unable to surface.

Procedure: 20) The Dive Rapid Intervention Pack shall be staged as follows for any underwater operation or training: a. On shore – if the operation is shorebased. b. In the boat – if the operation is boatbased.

21) When staging the Pack, it must be checked for readiness and its condition reported to the Dive Group Supervisor. i.e. “The Rapid Intervention Pack is staged on shore near the Communications Specialist. Air is 3000 lbs.”

22) As divers enter the water for operations, the safety caps covering the RIP connection shall be removed.

23) If required to assist a Distressed Diver with the Pack, the Safety Diver will swim to the distressed diver with the Pack with all caps removed from the connection hoses and the bottle in the off position.

24) The 90% diver shall immediately be rotated to the ready position as the new Safety Diver. A new diver must assume the position of 90% Diver as assigned by the Dive Group Supervisor.

25) The Dive Group Supervisor will immediately make ALS considerations for the at risk diver. This may include making on scene units aware of their task to provide medical aide to an injured diver or ordering an additional ALS to attend to possible victims.

26) The Battalion Chief will be notified of the situation as soon as possible.

27) Consideration needs to be given to dispatching another Dive Team for assistance.

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28) The Safety Diver will approach the distressed diver and assess his needs. i.e. “Are you injured? What is your Air Pressure?” a. Pertinent information shall be passed along to the Dive Group Supervisor and recorded. b. Diver Condition. c. Distressed Diver Air d. Safety Diver Air 29) The Safety Diver will make the connection to the Distressed diver in the following manner: a. Connect RIP to Distressed Divers 1st stage. b. Turn on RIP bottle c. Give RIP gauge to Distressed Diver d. Turn Distressed Diver’s Air off (confirm with gauge) 30) If the RIP is to be removed from the Distressed Diver underwater or the Bottle is to be changed out, BE SURE TO TURN THE DISTRESSED DIVER’S AIR BACK ON PRIOR TO TURNING OF THE RIP AND CONFIRM THIS WITH HIS GUAGE. 31) Once the diver has been assisted from the water, the Dive Group Supervisor shall make all additional assignments as necessary.

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