Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Hazardous Materials Incidents

A. Distinguish between hazardous materials incidents and other emergencies.

B. Discuss the roles of awareness-level personnel and operations-level responders.

C. Describe the various types of hazardous materials dangers.

D. Explain each of the routes of entry for hazardous chemicals.

E. Describe the U.S., Canadian and Mexican hazardous materials regulations and definitions.

F. Discuss hazardous materials incident statistics.

II. Hazardous Materials Identification

A. Identify the seven clues to the presence of hazardous materials.

B. Discuss the occupancy types, locations and pre-incident surveys that may indicate hazardous materials.

C. Describe the container shapes that may contain hazardous materials.

D. Identify placards, labels and markings that designate the presence of hazardous materials.

E. Explain the written resources available to indicate the presence of hazardous materials.

F. Discuss monitoring and detection devices.

III. Awareness-Level Actions at Hazardous Materials Incidents

A. Discuss predetermined procedures and emergency response plans.

B. Describe notification requirements.

C. Discuss the use of the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG) to obtain information about a hazardous material.

D. Demonstrate isolate and deny entry to a scene techniques.

E. Discuss terrorist incidents.

IV. Chemical Properties and Hazardous Materials Behavior

A. Discuss three states of matter

B. Discuss flammability of various hazardous materials.

C. Explain concept of vapor pressure, boiling point, specific gravity, solubility and miscibility.

D. Explain the reactivity triangle.

E. Describe the General Hazardous Materials Behavior Model.

V. Incident Management

A. Describe incident priorities.

B. Discuss various incident management systems.

C. Identify communication procedures and guidelines for use at hazardous materials incidents.

VI. Strategic Goals and Tactical Objectives

A. Describe each of the steps of the basic problem-solving formula.

B. Discuss isolation and scene control.

C. Explain the notification process.

D. Discuss protection of responders, the public, the environment and property.

E. Describe recovery and termination of an incident.

VII. Terrorist Attacks, Criminal Activity and Disasters

A. Define terrorism.

B. Distinguish between a terrorist attack and routine emergency.

C. Discuss explosive, chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear attacks.

D. Identify dangers of illegal hazardous materials dump.

E. Demonstrate proper evidence preservation.

VIII. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

A. Demonstrate proper use of respiratory protection.

B. Discuss protective clothing and ensembles.

C. Don and doff different types of personal protective equipment (PPE).

D. Discuss inspection, storage, testing and maintenance of PPE.

IX. Decontamination

A. Explore various decontamination methods.

B. Describe the types of victims that may receive decontamination.

C. Practice emergency decontamination.

D. Demonstrate set-up and implementation of technical decontamination.

E. Practice mass decontamination.

X. Product Control

A. Describe each of the various spill control tactics.

B. Perform spill absorption/adsorption, damming, diking, diversion and retention.

C. Demonstrate leak control and perform remote valve shutoff.

D. Explain fire control.

E. Demonstrate Foam line set-up and applications.

XI. Air Monitoring and Sampling Equipment

A. Discuss air monitoring and sampling.

B. Discuss concentrations and exposure limits.

C. Explain the components of air monitoring.

D. Describe the selection and maintenance of detection and monitoring devices.

E. Perform a pH test on an unknown liquid.

F. Perform air monitoring with a multi-gas meter.

XII. Victim Rescue and Recovery Techniques

A. Discuss rescue operations.

B. Conduct a triage.

C. Identify rescue tools and equipment.

D. Demonstrate various rescue drag methods.

XIII. Evidence Preservation and Sampling Procedures

A. Discuss various hazards at crimes involving hazardous materials or weapons of mass destruction.

B. Discuss the first responder’s role in investigation.

C. Describe the different response phases at criminal hazardous materials/weapons of mass destruction incidents.

XIV. Illicit Laboratories

A. Discuss general hazards at illicit laboratories.

B. Identify and avoid booby traps at illicit laboratories.

C. Describe illicit drug, chemical agent, explosive and biological labs.

D. Discuss remediation operations for illicit labs.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Firefighter Orientation

A. Describe the history and culture of the fire service.

B. Describe the mission of the fire service.

C. Explain fire department organizational principles.

D. Distinguish among functions of fire companies.

E. Summarize primary knowledge and skills the firefighter must have to function effectively.

F. Distinguish among the primary roles of the fire service personnel.

G. Distinguish among policies, procedures, and standard operating procedures.

H. Summarize components of the Incident Command System (ICS).

I. Distinguish among the functions of the major subdivisions within the ICS structure.

II. Firefighter Safety and Health

A. Discuss Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations.

B. Summarize the International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA) principles of risk management.

C. Discuss firefighter health considerations and employee assistance and wellness programs.

D. Discuss safety in the fire station.

E. Explain how to maintain and service equipment used in training.

F. Describe emergency escape and rapid intervention.

III. Fire Behavior

A. Describe physical and chemical changes of matter related to fire.

B. Discuss modes of combustion, the fire triangle and the fire tetrahedron.

C. Explain the difference between heat and temperature.

D. Describe sources of heat energy.

E. Discuss the transmission of heat.

F. Explain how the physical states of fuel affect the combustion process.

G. Explain how oxygen concentration affects the combustion process.

H. Distinguish among classifications of fires.

I. Describe the stages of fire development within a compartment.

IV. Building Construction

A. Describe common building materials.

B. Describe construction types and the effect fire has on the structural integrity of the construction type.

C. Identify the primary strengths and weaknesses of construction.

D. Describe dangerous building conditions created by fire or by actions taken attempting to extinguish a fire.

E. Recognize indicators of building collapse.

F. Explore actions to take when imminent building collapse is suspected.

G. Describe hazards associated with lightweight and truss construction.

V. Firefighter Personal Protective Equipment

A. Describe the purpose of personal protective gear.  

B. Summarize guidelines for the care of personal protective clothing.

C. Demonstrate effective air management.  

D. Describe basic Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) component assemblies.

E. Demonstrate donning and doffing SCBA.  

F. Demonstrate proper use of SCBA during emergency situations.

G. Demonstrate changing a SCBA cylinder using both the one person and two person methods.

VI. Portable Fire Extinguishers

A. Demonstrate the proper selection and use of portable fire extinguishers. 

B. Distinguish among classifications of fire and the most common agents used to extinguish them.

C. Discuss fire extinguisher types and uses.

D. Discuss damaged portable fire extinguishers and obsolete portable fire extinguishers.

VII. Ropes and Knots

A. Discuss types of rope construction.

B. Describe parts of a rope and considerations in tying a knot.

C. Describe characteristics of knots commonly used in the fire service.

D. Demonstrate selecting rope hardware for a given application.  

E. Summarize hoisting safety considerations.

F. Demonstrate knowledge of tying a variety of knots specific to the fire service. 

VIII. Rescue and Extrication Techniques

A. Distinguish between rescue and extrication operations.

B. Summarize safety guidelines for search and rescue personnel.

C. Describe actions that should be taken by a rapid intervention crew when a firefighter is in distress.

D. Conduct a primary and secondary search. 

E. Demonstrate various emergency rescue carries.

IX. Forcible Entry Procedures 

A. Select appropriate cutting tools for specific applications.

B. Summarize forcible entry tool safety rules.

C. Summarize general care and maintenance practices for forcible entry tools.  

D. Explain how fire doors operate.

E. Describe the characteristics of basic types of locks.

F. Describe rapid-entry lock-box systems.

G. Explain actions that can be taken to force entry involving padlocks.

H. Discuss hazards in forcing windows.

X. Ground Ladders  

A. Describe types of ground ladders used in the fire service.

B. Summarize factors that contribute to safe ladder operations.

C. Describe proper procedures or positioning ground ladders.

D. Explain precautions to take before raising a ladder.

E. Describe methods for lowering conscious or unconscious victims down ground ladders.

F. Demonstrate selecting, carrying and raising a ladder properly for various types of activities.

XI. Ventilation  

A. Discuss factors that are taken into account when deciding the need to ventilate a building.

B. List precautions to observe when undertaking vertical ventilation.

C. List warning signs of and unsafe roof condition.

D. Explain procedures for ventilation of a conventional basement.

E. Distinguish between advantages and disadvantages of forced ventilation.

XII. Water Supply

A. Describe dry-barrel and wet-barrel hydrants.

B. Discuss fire hydrant markings and location.

C. Summarize potential problems to look for when inspecting fire hydrants.

D. Demonstrate operating a hydrant.

E. Discuss alternative water supplies.

XIII. Fire Hose  

A. Discuss general care and maintenance of fire hose.

B. Distinguish between characteristics of threaded couplings and nonthreaded couplings.

C. Describe the characteristics of hose appliances and tools.

D. Demonstrate basic hose loads.

E. Demonstrate basic hose lays for supply hose.

F. Demonstrate techniques for operating hose lines.

XIV. Fire Streams  

A. Discuss the extinguishing properties of water.

B. Distinguish among characteristics of fire stream sizes.

C. Demonstrate use of hose streams and nozzles.

D. List checks that should be included in nozzle inspections.

XV. Fire Control

A. Summarize considerations prior to entering a burning building.

B. Describe direct attack, indirect attack and combination attack.

C. Discuss deploying master stream devices.

D. Describe aerial devices used to deliver elevated master streams.

E. Discuss responsibilities of companies in structural fires.

F. Explain action taken when performing firefighting and rescue operations in confined space.

XVI. Fire Detection, Alarm and Suppression Systems

A. Compare function of fire detection, alarm and suppression systems.

B. Discuss general automatic sprinkler protection and types of coverage.

C. Describe major applications of sprinkler systems.

XVII. Loss Control

A. Explain the philosophy of loss control.

B. Demonstrate salvage cover techniques.  

XVIII. Protecting Fire Scene Evidence  

A. Describe signs and indications of an incendiary fire.

B. Summarize important observations to be made en route, after arriving at the scene and during firefighting operations.

C. Explain firefighting responsibilities after the fire.

D. Discuss protecting and preserving evidence.

XIX. Fire Department Communications  

A. Demonstrate proper emergency communications to initiate a response.

B. Explain the purpose of tactical channels.

C. Discuss evacuation signals and personnel accountability reports.

XX. Fire Prevention and Public Education 

A. Discuss the fire prevention activities.

XXI. Basic Pre-hospital Emergency Medical Care for Firefighters

A. Discuss the importance of body substance isolations.

B. Discuss diseases of concern.

C. Describe scene safety considerations at hazardous materials incidents and rescue operations.

D. Demonstrate cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

E. Discuss indications of effective CPR and when CPR may be interrupted.

XXII. Introduction to Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT)

A. Summarize Awareness level and Operational level responsibilities at hazardous materials incidents.

B. Demonstrate emergency breathing techniques using SCBA. 

C. Describe National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) 1994 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ensemble classifications.

D. Discuss health and safety issues when wearing PPE.

E. Describe health and physical hazards that may be present at HAZMAT incidents.

XXIII. Operations at HAZMAT Incidents

A. Summarize incident priorities for all HAZMAT and terrorist incidents.

B. Discuss the management structure at HAZMAT or terrorist incidents.

C. Summarize general guidelines for decontamination operations.

D. Describe the three types of decontamination.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Building Construction

A. Compare common building materials as they relate to fire suppression.

B. Discuss Construction Classifications.

C. Discuss firefighter hazards related to building construction.

II. Rescue and Extrication 

A. Discuss fire ground search and rescue principles.

B. Explain strategies for victim removal from a fire.

C. Explore rescue and extrication tools and equipment.

D. Demonstrate technical rescue techniques.

E. Demonstrate vehicle extrication techniques.

III. Water Supply

A. Explain water supply principles.

B. Discuss extinguishing properties of water and foam.

C. Explain how pressure is gained and lost in fire hose.

D. Explain fire streams and nozzles.

E. Demonstrate firefighting foam applications.

F. Explore alternative water supplies.

G. Discuss rural water supply operations.

IV. Fire Hose 

A. Discuss the general care and maintenance of fire hose.

B. Demonstrate how to test fire hose.

V. Fire Streams

A. Discuss water supply principles.

B. Explain the extinguishing properties of water.

C. Discuss how pressure is gained or loss in a fire hose.

D. Discuss causes of a water hammer.

E. Compare various types of fire streams and nozzles.

F. Explore methods of dispensing firefighting foam.

G. Compare proportioners, delivery devices and generating systems

H. Demonstrate assembling a foam fire stream system.

I. Discuss foam application techniques ad hazards.

VI. Fire Control

A. Discuss how to suppress structure fires.

B. Discuss how to deploy master streams at a fire.

C. Compare suppression techniques of class A, B and C fires.

D. Explore company level fire tactics.

VII. Fire Detection, Alarm, and Suppressions Systems

A. Explore various types of alarm systems in structures.

B. Discuss automatic sprinkler systems.

C. Discuss operations at fires in protected properties.

VIII. Protecting Fire Scene Evidence

A. Demonstrate how to recognize and protect evidence at a fire scene.

B. Explain firefighter roles and duties at a fire scene as it pertains to origin and cause of fire.

IX. Fire Department Communications

A. Explain emergency communication as it pertains to fire and emergency medical services.

B. Compare management of non-emergent and emergent calls from the public.

C. Demonstrate proper radio communication in the fire service.

D. Demonstrate completing a fire incident report.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Hazardous Materials Operations, Skill: Perform Emergency Decontamination

A. Ensure all personnel are wearing proper PPE

B. Remove victim from contaminated area.

C. Deluge contaminated victim and clothing in a safe place.

D. Ensure rapid removal of victim's PPE, head to toe, while using repeated deluge.

E. Transfer victim and pertinent information to medical personal.

II. Firefighter I, Skill: Attack a Passenger Vehicle Fire

A. Discuss vehicle types, fuels, hazards and mitigating strategies.

B. Practice proper hose management, hose streams, hose maintenance and nozzle patterns.

C. Discuss fire department organizational principles and teamwork.

III. Firefighter I, Skill: Exterior Class A Fire Attack

A. Discuss special hazards of a Class A materials fire.

B. Practice use of hand tools.

C. Discuss determination of fire origin and cause.

IV. Firefighter I, Skill: Interior Structure Fire Attack

A. Demonstrate nozzle operations for an interior structure fire attack.

B. Determine type of water flow needed (direct, indirect, or combination) for an interior fire attack.

C. Demonstrate advancement of a 1-1/2” or larger hose line up and down ladders and stairways during an interior attack.

D. Demonstrate operating a hose line from a ladder employing a leg lock technique or the use of a belt.

E. Demonstrate an interior attack of a fire above, below, and at grade.

F. Expose and suppress hidden fires by use of different techniques (thermal imagine cameras, wall exposures, etc.).

V. Firefighter II, Skills: Extinguish an Ignitable Liquid Fire

A. Describe the Incident Command System and its role on the fire scene.

B. Identify types of foam and the appropriate concentration for any given ignitable liquid fire.

C. Determine what foam proportioning devise, water supply and attack line is appropriate for an ignitable liquid incident.

D. Describe the appropriate manner of attack for an ignitable liquid fire.

VI. Firefighter II, Skill: Coordinate Interior Attack of a Structure Fire

A. Demonstrate ability to assemble and brief an interior fire attack team.   

B. Summarize the correct attack techniques selected for the given fire.

C. Demonstrate effective evaluation and forecasting of fire’s growth and development of a structure fire.  

D. Demonstrate ability to select appropriate tools for forcible entry on an interior structure fire.

E. Incorporate search and rescue procedures into an interior structure fire attack.  

F. Demonstrate ventilation procedures during interior structure attack.

VII. Firefighter II, Skill: Control a Pressurized Flammable Gas Container Fire

A. Demonstrate the proper size up of incident scene for hazards (fire conditions, type of fuel, integrity of container) during a pressurized flammable gas container fire. 

B. Demonstrate the ability to manage two hose line teams ensuring that they deploy hose lines properly (bleed air from hose-lines, ensure adequate hose-line to reach fire, proper nozzle streams).

C. Direct use of hose-line teams to properly cool the pressurized flammable gas container.

D. Determine proper strategy to isolate control valve.

E. Demonstrate proper closing of control valve.

VIII. Firefighter II, Project I: Private Dwelling and Fire Safety Survey

A. Conduct a Private Dwelling Fire and Safety Survey in a free-standing house, apartment, or condominium not belonging to or occupied by the student.

B. Demonstrate knowledge of local fire safety ordinances (open burning, chemical storage, etc.).

C. Provide safety information for occupant/owner and any strategies to mitigate safety concerns.  

D. Document safety issues, findings and mitigating strategies provided during visit.  

E. Submit documentation of survey for certification.

IX. Firefighter II, Project II: Pre-Incident Survey

A. Determine a commercial space that is most appropriate to conduct a Pre-Incident Survey.

B. Describe the components of the fire suppression and detection systems of the commercial space chosen for the Pre-Incident Survey.

C. Conduct a survey (measure, photograph, sketch, interview the owner) of the commercial space for the Pre-Incident Survey.

D. Calculate the gallons per minute needed for proper response by the square footage of the building. 

E. Document the results of the survey with the responsible party’s signature.

F. Submit the Pre-Incident Survey for certification.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. History of Fire and the Dawn of Firefighting

A. Discuss the history of mans use and control of fire.

B. Explain the connection between the Roman Empire, firefighting equipment and long-held traditions.

C. Iterate how St. Florian became the patron saint of firefighters.

D. Discuss the important people, theoretical concepts and innovations developed during colonial times in America.

II. Evolution of Firefighting Equipment

A. Discuss the development of the first fire engine.

B. Iterate why red became the signature color for fire engines.

C. Discuss the evolution of fire hydrants.

D. Discuss the evolution of fire extinguishers.

E. Describe the advent of the fire hose.

F. Discuss evolution of personal protective gear.

III. Fire Department Traditions and Their Significance

A. Evaluate the validity of information regarding the adoption of the Maltese Cross as the firefighters badge throughout the United Stated.

B. Explain the fire department ranks and insignias.

C. Discuss the use of canines in the fire service.

IV. Significant Fire Disasters and the Lessons Learned

A. Explore fire departments history of retroactive fire prevention.

B. Discuss various fire catastrophes that could have been prevented.

C. Iterate the lessons learned from catastrophic fire events.

D. Research the “Mayday” call, the tradition of using bagpipes and tolling bells at firefighters funerals.

V. Incorporation of Emergency Medical Services Into the Fire Department

A. Identify the persons and organizations responsible for the Star of Life becoming the recognized symbol of emergency medical services.

B. Describe the evolution of the ambulance service.

C. Discuss the history of emergency medical response in the United States.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Role of Building Construction in Fire Service

A. Describe the importance of studying building construction as a fire fighter.

B. Discuss why using proper language is so important for understanding building construction techniques and for fire-ground safety.

C. Discuss the importance of evacuation protocols.

D. Identify and describe the role of pre-planning in firefighting operations.

E. Define the relationship between risk and benefit and its impact on fire fighter safety.

II. Concepts of Construction

A. Identify the variety of forces that buildings are subjected to.

B. Identify the different types of loads and how they are applied to buildings.

C. Define key different types of structural members such as columns, beams, and walls.

D. Discuss the variety of different types of structural connections and how they behave in a fire.

III. Methods and Materials of Construction, Renovation, and Demolition

A. Describe the basic regulations that apply to building construction projects.

B. Identify the role of the typical members of a building design team.

C. Describe the roles of the various members of the construction team.

D. Identify the hazards to fire fighters during the construction, renovation, and demolition of a building.

E. Describe the hazards to fire fighters of the different types of materials used in the construction of buildings.

IV. Building and Fire Codes

A. Explain the history and basis for building codes.

B. Explain the differences between fire and building codes.

C. Describe the General Hazardous Materials Behavior Model.

D. Identify construction codes and standards that have an impact on the fire service.

E. Identify important fire protection features of building codes.

V. Features of Fire Protection

A. Describe the basic concepts of fire protection and building construction.

B. Identify the basics of fire behavior, including fire spread.

C. Explain the ways in which smoke and fire containment is achieved.

D. Describe the various types of fire protection systems.

VI. Wood Frame Construction

A. Identify six types of wood frame structures classified as Type V construction.

B. Describe the specific fire protection differences between balloon frame and platform frame.

C. Describe the construction of a platform-frame building.

D. Discuss how a truss is constructed and how it performs from a fire protection perspective.

E. Explain the difference between firestopping and draft-stopping.

F. Describe the behavior of engineered and manufactured wood products under fire attack.

G. Describe the different types of wood siding and roofing materials.

VII. Heavy Timber and Mill Construction

A. Identify the similarities and differences between mill and heavy timber (Type IV construction).

B. Identify the dimensions of heavy timber members.

C. Describe why the misnomer "slow burning" is inappropriate for heavy timber buildings.

D. Identify the hazards of conflagration breeders.

E. Describe the hazards of vacant heavy timber buildings and structures under demolition.

F. Identify new structures that incorporate heavy timber construction.

VIII. Ordinary Construction

A. Discuss the details of ordinary construction.

B. Describe how the structural stability of a masonry wall is compromised.

C. Identify specific wall and wall component problems.

D. Recognize collapse indicators.

E. Identify the problems associated with interior structural elements.

F. Explain how masonry walls act as fire barriers.

G. Discuss fire spread through void spaces of ordinary construction.

IX. Non-combustible Construction

A. Recognize the difference between non-combustible and fire-resistive construction.

B. Identify the different types of steel building components and their characteristics.

C. Describe different types of steel structural systems.

D. Describe the hazards of a metal deck roof fire.

E. Identify the hazards of high fire loads in unprotected steel structures and ways to improve the situation.

X. Fire-Resistive Construction

A. Discuss the difference between non-combustible and fire-resistive construction.

B. Describe different types of concrete structural systems.

C. Describe the two types of pre-stressing.

D. Contrast precast and site-cast concrete.

E. Describe the hazards of formwork.

F. Describe the methods of fireproofing steel and of ensuring a level fire resistance in concrete.

G. Detail how compartmentalization works to prevent the spread of fire.

XI. Specific Occupancy Details and Hazards

A. Determine the unique design and construction details found in buildings based on occupancy type.

B. Establish how occupancy-specific building code requirements dictate particular safety features.

C. Identify the unique details and hazards associated with specific occupancies.

D. Identify how occupancy specifics affect firefighting operations.

XII. Collapse

A. Identify the various types of collapse.

B. Apply risk analysis to fire-ground safety.

C. Identify the specific basic competencies all fire fighters should have to perform at a structural collapse.

D. Explain the essential elements of the collapse of the World Trade Center twin towers on September 11, 2001.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Introduction

A. Explore the issues of fire and fire investigations in the United States.

B. Discuss the detection of incendiary fires.

C. Describe analytical fire investigation.

II. The Elementary Chemistry of Combustion

A. Discuss the interactions of compounds.

B. Determine the various states of fuel in regard to fire load.

III. The Nature and Behavior of Fire

A. Discuss combustion, fire behavior, and growth.

B. Describe the effects of environmental conditions on fire behavior.

IV. Combustion Properties of Liquid and Gaseous Fuels

A. Discuss types of liquid fuel, their properties and behaviors.

B. Discuss investigation techniques for liquid fuels

V. Combustion Properties of Solid Fuels

A. Discuss types of solid fuels, their properties and behaviors.

B. Discuss investigative techniques for solid fuels.

VI. Conducting the Structure and Vehicle Fire Investigation

A. Discuss the scientific method.

B. Discuss the use of photo, video and written documentation.

C. Research the data that can be collected from the investigation.

VII. Sources of Ignition

A. Discuss ignition sources and their uses.

B. Discuss electrical ignition sources.

C. Determine the difference between incendiary and accidental ignition sources.

VIII. Structure Fires and Their Investigation

A. Discuss elements of building construction.

B. Determine the process for examination of a structure fire scene.

C. Document the fire scene.

D. Determine conclusions about the fire investigation.

IX. Grass and Wildland Fires and Their Investigation

A. Discuss how to determine the origin of a wildland fire.

B. Discuss sources of ignition for wildland fires.

C. Describe proper collection and preservation of physical evidence.

X. Automobile, Motor Vehicle and Ship Fires

A. Analyze automobile and motor vehicle fires.

B. Analyze boat and ship fires.

XI. Electrical Cause of Fire

A. Describe basic electricity and wiring systems.

B. Discuss investigation of electricity-related fires.

XII. Clothing and Fabric Fires

A. Discover regulations on flammable fabrics.

B. Discuss flammability testing.

XIII. Explosions and Explosive Combustion

A. Discuss explosive combustion and its phases.

B. Describe investigation of explosions.

XIV. Chemical Fires and Hazardous Materials

A. Describe chemical fires and hazardous materials fire investigations.

B. Describe investigative techniques for clandestine drug laboratories.

XV. Laboratory Services

A. Discuss the availability of and use of laboratory services.

B. Describe fire-related and non-fire-related criminal evidence.

XVI. Fire-Related Deaths and Injuries

A. Discuss the medico-legal death investigation process.

B. Describe pathological and toxicological examinations.

XVII. Arson as a Crime

A. Discuss the crime of arson.

B. Deduce from the interpretation of evidence.

C. Research court procedures and the laws governing fire investigation.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Incident Management System (IMS)

A. Describe the why and how of the beginning of the IMS.

B. Distinguish among functions of the Office of Homeland Security.

C. Describe major Findings of the National Commission of Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States (9/11) Commission).

D. Explain interagency, intergovernmental, interoperability, and interdisciplinary concepts as the relate to emergency management.

II. Roles within Emergency Management

A. Discuss information emergency managers should know and be able to access.

B. Summarize facts about partnerships in emergency management.

C. Explain the concept of integrated emergency management.

D. Describe activities citizens should take to prepare for emergencies as listed in the Ready New York campaign.

III. National preparedness guidelines and standards

A. Summarize facts about National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards related to emergency management.

B. Summarize facts about the Capability Assessment for Readiness (CAR) process instrument.

C. Describe the five levels of preparedness based on CAR results.

D. Discuss national preparedness assessment programs.

E. Describe individual education, certification, and accreditation in the field of emergency management.

IV. Laws and Authorities of Emergency Management

A. List benefits of the emergency manager having knowledge of necessary laws and applicable authorities.

B. Summarize facts about executive orders and presidential directives.

C. Discuss local emergency planning committee guides.

D. Describe the FIRESCOPE program used in California.

V. Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Impact Analysis

A. List documents or programs that can assist in hazard identification, risk assessment, and impact analysis.

B. Describe a simple hazard identification process.

C. Explain how vulnerability can be examined.

D. Explain how hazard maps are used in emergency management.

E. Describe the seven process steps in the basic business model or risk management.

VI. Emergency Management Program Administration

A. Describe the roles of the emergency management coordinator, manager, and advisory committee.

B. List activities that may be conducted following a program evaluation.

C. Describe the vision and goals of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Federal Emergency Management Agency (DHS-FEMA).

D. Describe coordination in the context of NIMS.

E.  Define each component of a strategic plan.

VII. Incident Prevention and Hazard Mitigation

A. List the basic actions taken when planning for incident prevention and hazard mitigation.

B. Summarize facts about NFPA 1600, Standard on disaster/Emergency Management and Business Continuity Programs, and Capability Assessment for Readiness (CAR) mitigation strategies.

C. List the elements included in the loss prevention matrix.

D. Identify mitigation measures that lessen the effects of disasters.

E. Summarize facts about cost-benefit analyses.

VIII. Resource Management

A. Describe the emergency response plan element that explains the procedures for ordering resources.

B. Identify agencies, department, and or groups that could supply possible planning participants for local jurisdiction resource management plans.

C. Describe local, tribal, and state responses to resource requirement.

D. Explain how volunteer and donations management should be addressed.

IX. Mutual Aid Agreements

A. Discuss benefits of mutual aid agreements.

B. Discuss limitations of mutual aid agreements. Summarize National Emergency Management Association (NEMA) recommendations for mutual aid agreements.

C. Discuss best practices in mutual aid.

X. Emergency Plans for All Hazards and Continuity of Operations (COOP) Plans

A. Explain how catastrophic incidents differ from other types of emergencies.

B. List planning considerations of continuity of operations (COOP) plan and continuity of government (COG) plans.  

C. Discuss steps managers and supervisors can take to address response measures.

D. Describe elements of recovery plans, including public assistance, individual assistance, and private-sector recovery.

XI. Direction, Command, Control, and Coordination of the Incident Command System

A. Describe the development history of the Incident Command System (ICS).

B. Discuss management characteristics of ICS.

C. List incident action plan (IAP) components.

D. List resources for emergency operations centers (EOCs).

E. Summarize issues to consider while conducting an EOC assessment.

F. Discuss training opportunities for direction, command, control, and coordination of emergency response.

XII. Emergency Communication and Warnings

A. Summarize compliance requirements for emergency communications and warnings.

B. Describe aspects to consider for maximizing the use of warning systems.

C. Define mass communications and selective communication.

D. Discuss logistical and sociological considerations for warning communications.

E. Discuss challenges in warning dissemination.

XIII. Operational Procedure Requirements for Emergency Management

A. Discuss how operational procedures apply to the phases of the emergency management process.

B. Explain why the Incident Command System (ICS) is useful for Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs).

C. Discuss lessons learned from the Florida hurricanes of 2004.

D. Discuss operational procedures best practices.

XIV. Finance and Administration Requirements for Emergency Management

A. Discuss fiscal aspects to emergency management programs that should be considered, evaluated, and implemented.

B. Discuss the Emergency Management Performance Grant Program.

C. Summarize the basic organizational structure and responsibilities for a Finance/Administration Section.

D. Discuss financial management recovery operation.

E. Discuss best practices in emergency management finance and administration. 

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. The History of Codes and Their Use by Various Nations and Empires

A. Identify various codes employed in historic times.

B. Provide examples of why they were produced.

C. Examine tragedies as part of the codes process.

II. The Utilization and Interpretation of Codes During Review and Inspections

A. Explain the use of codes in actual situations.

B. Explain the use of various chapters in a code.

C. Explain a code in specific exiting situations.

D. Discuss the term "performance" as it relates to codes and enforcement.

III. Fire Aids in the Placement and Operation of Detection and Extinguishing Systems

A. Explain the various interpretations of what fire is, especially the fire tetrahedron.

B. Utilize the knowledge of fire in describing various types of fires.

IV. Extinguishing Methods Utilized to Control and Extinguish a Fire

A. Connect these methods to types of fires.

B. Connect types of fires to types of extinguishing systems.

V. Basic Fire Extinguishment Using Water

A. Explain how water extinguishes a fire and why it is still the most effective extinguishing agent.

B. Examine math in the process of building and using water as an extinguishing agent.

C. Explain how various types of water suppression systems function.

VI. Other Extinguishing Agents and Systems

A. Discuss water additives as a basis for effective extinguishing systems.

B. Discuss utilizing various types of non-water-based extinguishing systems.

VII. Fire Detection Systems

A. Discuss the earliest types of heat detectors.

B. Explain the operation of products of combustion detection systems.

C. Discuss the need for fire detection systems.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Fire Chemistry Terms and Concepts

A. Define heat transfer in tactical situations.

B. Describe principal fire characteristics of materials to enhance knowledge of tactical situations.

C. Explain a fire tetrahedron and its relationship to tactics.

D. Explain the five stages of fire and its impact on tactical issues.

E. Define flashover and how it can be reduced as a significant issue in structure fires.

F. Explain fire spread and how it impacts fire attack.

II. Developing a Fire Department Safety Program

A. Discuss the three basic tenets of fireground safety.

B. Provide a basic structure for training about firefighter safety.

C. Discuss the need for record keeping, especially regarding near-miss situations.

D. State various needs for fitness of firefighters.

E. Explain how risk management fits into the fire service.

III. Eight Orders of Tactical Operations

A. Discuss each as to basic understanding of role.

B. Describe basic styles of interior attack.

C. Delineate the differences between the three methods of attack based on fire size.

IV. Prioritizing Issues on the Fireground

A. Discuss the five concepts of size up.

B. Provide information so as to make fireground prioritizing effective.

V. Pre-fire Planning for Initial Fire Attack

A. Define the pre-fire plan concept.

B. Delineate the methods used in pre-fire planning.

VI. The Effects of Post-Fire Analysis

A. Discuss the objectives of doing a post-fire analysis.

B. Describe the methods employed in a post-fire analysis.

C. Describe the format employed to provide a post-fire analysis.

VII. Basic Structural Fire Tactical Process

A. Explain basic fire attack in dwellings.

B. Explain basic fire attack in other structures.

VIII. Issues with Basic Firefighting Skills

A. Describe proper hose line placement and use.

B. Explain appropriate information on search techniques.

C. Explain basic ladder placement.

D. Discuss how and when to use ventilation.

E. Illustrate the proper method of fighting a single family residential fire.

F. Describe various types of hidden space fires and tactics used to suppress.

G. Describe construction of high rises and its effect on tactics.

H. Describe medical process in large victim fire.

I. Discuss building-under-construction tactical issues.

J. Describe other non-structure fire problems.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Types of Leaders

A.  Define the term leadership.

B. Describe the terms traits and abilities and provide insight into their meanings as they pertain to leadership.

C. Describe the various leadership roles that individuals in the fire service need to be involved with, and delineate how various types of leadership styles would fit into those leadership roles.

D. Describe the various types of leaders that are most prevalent today inside and outside the fire service.

E. Provide specific personal aspects of leadership and tie them to types of leaders.

F. Discuss how changing your leadership style can possibly change your actions.

II. Leadership In Its Simplest Form

A. Describe how answers can be found by leaders that pay attention to their personnel.

B. Describe the root cause of success.

C. Describe how leaders can return to the right track when confronted with mistakes being made.

D. Discuss the role emotions play in leadership and issues being confronted.

III. Leading Through Conflict

A. Discuss the three styles of leaders when faced with conflict.

B. Define the tools needed and used by a mediator.

IV. Leading As If Your Life Depended On It

A. Discuss the type of leadership that is effective when leading during extremely dangerous circumstances.

B. Describe how effective leaders can overcome fear in themselves and others.

C. Describe the role of an effective leader when they and their personnel are faced with tragedy.

D. Delineate how an effective leader builds effective teams.

V. Crew Resource Management (CRM) and Leadership

A. Describe the five parts of CRM.

B. Describe how effective leaders can and should overcome errors, by utilizing CRM.

C. Define the term situational awareness and its critical importance to a leader.

D. Describe effective decision-making skills during critical times faced by a leader.

E. Discuss the importance of, and proper method of effective communication, both for a leader and for their personnel.

F.  Define teamwork and followership.

G. Describe the barriers to effective leadership and management.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Change in Fire Service Management

A. Delineate substantive changes in fire management and how they came about.

1. Discuss the three levels of fire service management.

2. Discuss the role of each level of management.

3. Discuss the process of change in fire service management throughout its history.

4. Explain the development of the fire service in the United States until 1900.

5. Discuss the change of management in the fire service since 1900.

B. Explain some basic impacts on the fire service.

1. Discuss at least two external fire prevention organizations.

2. Delineate the role of the company officer in fire prevention.

3. Differentiate between strategy and tactics.

4. Describe at least two tactical goals for fire-ground use.

5. Describe the role of the fire service in emergency management.

6. Discuss three ways of budgeting.

II. Organizational Design

A. Discuss provisions needed in an organizational structure.

1. Discuss the factors in the design of an organization.

2. Explain the provisions needed in an organizational structure.

3. Describe the two methods that organizations can be organized.

B. Describe how fire service culture can be changed.

1. Describe how organizational culture affects managing and supervising within it.

2. Describe how culture can be influenced and changed.

III. Basic Organizational Principles of Management

A. Discuss the nine principals of management in various settings.

1. Describe the similarity of all organizational principles of management.

2. Discuss those differences in organizational principles of the fire service.

3. Discuss the need to properly apply these principles when managing.

4. Discuss how the environment (internal and external) shapes management principles and their use.

B. Describe how these principles can affect workflow and personnel.

1. Describe the pitfalls of conflicting orders.

2. Discuss the three basic principles of choosing the correct span of control.

3. Define the term empowerment.

IV. Fire Service Management Environment and Management Theories

A. Discuss four management theories.

1. State the contribution of Adam Smith to management theory.

2. State Fredrick Taylor's Time Studies and their relationship to management theory.

3. Explain the term management cycle.

4. List the five management functions according to Fayol.

5. Explain P.O.L.E.

6. Explain the dissatisfaction of people under previous management theories.

7. Describe the results of the Hawthorne experiment.

8. Explain the "management style" theory of management.

9. Explain the "linking element" behavioral management theory.

B. Explain how these theories can affect fire service operations.

1. State two similarities between organizations to utilize management theories.

2. Describe how management theories are applied.

3. Describe the "Management Environment" in the fire service as it pertains to management theories.

4. Discuss the term "Standards for Fire Protection."

5. Describe the four areas of management responsibility that any mid-manager must control.

V. Four Areas of Management Responsibility in the Fire Service

A. Provide observations on how the four areas may impact various fire department operations.

1. Provide discussion on three of the activities a typical fire prevention organization is involved.

2. Describe the three analyses that the Incident Commander needs to have information on.

3. State the importance of drills in good command.

4. Describe at least two strategic goals for fire-ground use.

5. Explain the need to update fire department resources with changes in society.

6. Explain the total time concept for emergency response.

7. Discuss the two major types of budgets.

8. Discuss the three general areas of responsibility in personnel management.

9. Describe the five functions of personnel management.

10. Explain the fire department's role in personnel management.

11. Discuss the basic laws governing labor relations.

12. Describe the public sector in labor relations bargaining.

13. Describe the term "needs assessment" in relation to the fire service and how to conduct one.

14. Describe influences on planning.

15. Provide a definition for the three levels of planning.

16. Define the term gap analysis.

B. Explain and provide backing for a specific theory that appeals to the student.

Content Outline and Competencies:

I. Introduction to American Law

A. Describe the concepts of law.

B. Identify major historical issues that affect law.

C. Provide context for laws within the Constitution of the United States.

D. Describe the judicial and court system in America.

II. The Process of Civil Law

A. Describe a basic civil suit.

B. Describe the differences between civil and criminal acts.

III. The Description of Criminal Law

A. Provide examples of criminal law and the fire service.

B. Provide the appropriate definition of crime.

C. Describe the basic elements of a crime.

IV. A Study of the Law of Torts

A. Define the law of torts.

B. Describe elements of a tort.

C. Define negligence.

D. Describe defenses against negligence.

V. Employer and Employee Relationships and the Law

A. Provide insight into today's worker's compensation laws.

B. Describe various employee's rights.

C. Elucidate various aspects of union agreements and state and federal law.

VI. Federal Labor Laws

A. Examine Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

B. Define sexual harassment.

C. Define discrimination.

D. Provide context for a study of the fire service and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

VII. Fire Issues and The Supreme Court.

A. Provide examples of fire issues and the Supreme Court.

B. Identify potential issues in the fire service that could become a Supreme Court issue.

Content Outline and Competencies:

The content outline and competencies will vary because they are dependent upon the Special Topic being offered.  The outline and competencies will follow the standard format for JCCC courses and will be written in outcomes-based language. The Special Topics course proposal will first be reviewed and approved by the Fire Science faculty.  The Healthcare, Public Safety & Wellness Curriculum Committee and the division dean will review and approve each Special Topics course proposal.  Scheduling of Special Topics courses will be the responsibility of the department chair. Any specific Special Topics topic may not be repeated within a two-year sequence.