Discussions about search are on the rise. Almost every year, civilian fire fatalities increase. In. 2024 (the most recent year for which statistics are available), the total was 3,920. Serious changes are required for how we view and handle the vital tactic of search.
Survival time is limited
The fact that we must start to include search in our initial tactical assignments or increase the number of people and units that are deployed to perform is obvious. However, the other important element of search that can’t be ignored is the time factor. As this column’s title notes, search delayed is search denied.
Not only must we make the tactical decision to build a robust search component into every structural fire, but it must be initiated, conducted and completed in short order, and by short order I mean right away. The clock is ticking, and the survival time of any and all trapped, lost or unconscious victims is limited.
Not only must we create or bolster our current search component, but we also must move it ahead of or make it simultaneous with those other vital fire scene tactics, but how do we do that?
Led from the top
This situation and the solution must be handled and initiated at the top of the chain of command. The fire chief, the fire commissioner, the fire director or whoever runs a department must buy in and promote this concept.
Numerous articles, seminars and books outline various options and methods that can be instituted to begin the process.
An important part of the process is the inclusion of a wide range of players, so numerous perspectives can be included. These people and entities could include firefighters, officers, chiefs, unions, and fire service associations and organizations. With the assistance and contributions of these groups, a solid new or improved tactical plan can be created and implemented.
Operational flexibility
One of the first steps to address and solve this situation should be a serious discussion of the tactical priority that each of the vital fire scene operations hold.
Many departments very rapidly order or expect the stretching of a second hoseline at structural fires. Often, this is done with little or no consideration of whether a second line is immediately required. Certainly, having a second hoseline stretched at a structural fire is a good order and allows the chief to direct that line to handle an actual or perceived condition quickly. However, what about the civilians who are inside of the burning building? Wouldn’t it be more effective to deploy a search team before the second hoseline if there are reports of people trapped or conditions indicate that?
Yes, these are flexible and adjustable tactics, but the flexibility must be maintained. Mandating that a second line should be stretched or that horizontal or vertical ventilation be conducted before the first search team is deployed is overly restrictive and limits the tactical options that the chief can employ. Remember, search delayed is search denied.
Editor’s note: For more about prioritizing search, see “Command & Control Success: Search Priority” on page 14.
