_{Last Modified: 09/27/2024 09:57}

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Policy/Procedure

1. The first unit on the scene at a structure fire response or other emergency may slow the remainder of the units responding to Code 2 if outward signs point to the incident being a minor emergency. This reduced response shall occur after:

1. The first unit on the scene reports on location via radio and establishes Command;
   
   
2. A 360 degree survey has been completed, and;
   
   
3. There is no observable smoke, fire, or other products of combustion showing from any of the sides observed.

2. Following completion of the above three actions, Command may report, “Nothing Showing” via radio. At this time the following shall occur:

1. The Incident Commander will cause the nature of the problem to be investigated;
   
   
2. The second due engine (via dispatch running order) will continue responding Code 3 until on scene and staged, or cancelled by Command, and;
   
   
3. The remaining units dispatched shall slow to a Code 2 response. The units shall continue to respond Code 2 until they either arrive on scene or their response status is ordered changed by Command.

3. When responding to large, expansive commercial or industrial structures, it may be impossible for the first arriving unit to complete a 360 degree survey. In these instances, the Incident Commander shall assess the scene as completely as possible to determine there is no fire prior to slowing down other responding units. This may be accomplished by entering the structure or area and interviewing occupants, guards or workers, and through visual observations of conditions on scene.

Until it can be ascertained there is no emergency, the Incident Commander shall not downgrade the Code 3 response.

4. Once the Incident Commander determines that fire is unlikely, they may slow arriving units down to Code 2 by stating, “Nothing Showing”. It is not necessary to state, “Slow down to Code 2” as the benchmark “Nothing Showing” is the equivalent.

5. If it is determined by subsequent visualization of smoke or fire that the “Nothing Showing” benchmark was given erroneously, Command shall notify all units responding to the incident to resume a Code 3 response.

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