I can, but then.. I can't. This brings up an interesting fact of the Los Angeles City Fire Department. Unlike many other departments you may be familiar with, the LAFD does NOT use a traditional alarm or box system. Each call has it's own dispatch algorithm based on type of structure and location, as well as weather pattern. For example, santa ana winds will include an observation helicopter and additional units down wind in case of tree's and embers. After the first assignment gets on scene, the IC (incident commander) will request whatever units he or she feels is neccesary. With the flexibility of the Task Force/Light Force concept, it allows them to judge their needs specifically and call for additional Engines, Light Forces, Task Forces, in whatever numbers their situation requires. A common call will be "OCD, Van Nuys IC.. Send me an additional Task Force and Engine and another BC" That would get him 2 engines, and a Light Force which can either be used as a 3 engine or a truck. Remember, except for Station 9, you'll never see a truck respond in LA without a pumper with it.
The breakdown, for those interested is:
"A" assignment includes not less than four fire companies and not less than 1 truck
-Example: Batt 10, Task Force 88 (Engine 88, Engine 288, T88), Engine 78, Engine 39, EMS 10, RA88.
"B" assignment includes not less than six fire companies and not less than 2 trucks
- Dwellings, apartments, and hotel occupancies four or more stories in
height. All commercial and/or industrial properties that exceed certain parameters, Schools, special schools, day nurseries two or more stories, Sanatoriums, homes for aged, hospitals, public assemblages, and churches except B?2 occupancies under 100 feet. A B2 is explained in the LA City Fire Code. Also all assemblage occupancies on second floor or above.
-Example: Batt 10, Task Force 88 (Engine 88, Engine 288, T88), Engine 78, Task Force 39 (Engine 39, Engine 239, Truck 39), Engine 109, EMS 10, RA88.
"C" assignment includes not less than four fire companies and not less than 1 truck
-Special Assignments like Airports, Brush and Harbor, amongst others
After the first units get on scene, any additional units required turns the incident into a "Greater Alarm" regardless of what is requested. After 15 fire companies are on scene, it reaches the level of Major Emergency.
Mike
wow mike thats a very intresting way of dispacth here in new york city we used an almost traditonal box alarm dispatch with exceptions of un usual assignments
you can see these dispatch plans at
http://www.fdnewyork.com/aa.asp
This topic is locked
001.JPG 617.1KB
60 downloads
