Assisting law enforcement while they execute their duties brings us directly into the same line of fire they deal with on a daily basis. While this assistance is a normal part of many fire department and EMS operations, they should be approached with a heightened level of attention to surrounding signs and signals. We should make it a point to take the extra precaution to fully size up the situation when dealing with incidents involving the unpredictability of human behavior.
“The engine company was called for a welfare check at a single-family residence. We arrived on scene and met with police units already on scene. PD stated that the resident had made ‘disturbing’ phone calls, but did not feel that he was a threat to himself or others. They requested that we force entry through the front door to check on the occupant, who had not answered the phone. As a company officer, I trusted my initial instinct that something was not right. I did a walk around the house and discovered several militant type stickers and signs on the property. I advised PD we would find…”
The reporter in this week’s featured report provides us with a vivid example of high situational awareness. The first indication we note is his reaction to his initial instinct (i.e., little voice in the back of your head) that warned the officer something is more than just routine. The officer reacts to the instinct by increasing the level of caution employed in what could be termed a risk versus reward assessment that turns out favorably for all. Once you have read the entire account, consider the following:
- What is your department’s SOP/SOG for responding with law enforcement for “welfare checks?”
- Did you follow this reporter’s procedure on your last “welfare check” call? Why or why not.
- When your law enforcement agency requests assistance, do you fall under their chain of command, participate in a unified command model, or remain independent? Discuss the pros and cons of each model.
- Should the fire department be this close to the action on these types of incidents?
- Do you see any value in sharing this near-miss report with your law enforcement counterpart? Why or why not.
Have you had a similar experience while assisting your law enforcement agency? Share your heads up experience by submitting a report to www.firefighternearmiss.com today.
Note: The questions posed by the reviewers are designed to generate discussion and thought in the name of promoting firefighter safety. They are not intended to pass judgment on the actions and performance of individuals in the reports.
