Article 1: Mission & Core Values

1.1 Mission Statement

The San Andreas Fire & Rescue (SAFR) is dedicated to preserving life and property through rapid, professional, and compassionate response. We provide the highest level of service in fire suppression, emergency medical care, and public safety to all communities within San Andreas.

1.2 Core Values

  • Integrity: We adhere to the highest ethical standards and are honest in all our interactions.
  • Courage: We face challenges and danger with training, discipline, and a commitment to our duty.
  • Compassion: We provide care and support to all individuals in their time of need with empathy and respect.
  • Teamwork: We work together as a unified team to achieve our mission and support one another.

Article 2: Code of Conduct

2.1 Professionalism on Scene

At all emergency scenes, SAFR personnel shall conduct themselves with the utmost professionalism. This includes maintaining a calm demeanor, communicating clearly with patients and other agencies, and focusing on the mission at hand. Patient privacy is paramount.

2.2 Station Conduct

Fire stations are a public representation of SAFR. They shall be kept clean and orderly. All personnel will treat each other with respect and work collaboratively to maintain a positive and professional environment.

Article 3: Apparatus & Equipment

3.1 Daily Checks

At the start of every shift, all personnel are responsible for conducting a thorough inspection of their assigned apparatus and personal equipment. This includes checking fluid levels, medical supply inventory, equipment functionality, and personal protective equipment (PPE).

3.2 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Full turnout gear (bunker gear) is mandatory for all personnel operating in or near an active fire scene or any other hazardous environment. For medical calls, appropriate gloves and masks must be worn.

Article 4: Response Protocols

4.1 Emergency Response

All responses to emergency calls will be conducted using lights and sirens (Code 3) in a safe and controlled manner. Operators of SAFR apparatus must exercise due regard for the safety of all other motorists. Upon arrival, the first unit on scene establishes command.

4.2 Scene Safety

The safety of SAFR personnel and the public is the highest priority on any scene. The first arriving unit must conduct a scene size-up and identify any immediate hazards. Personnel shall not enter any situation deemed unsafe until proper precautions have been taken.

Article 5: Medical Treatment Guidelines

5.1 Patient Care Philosophy

SAFR is committed to providing the highest standard of pre-hospital emergency medical care. All patients will be treated with dignity and compassion. Our goal is to stabilize patients and transport them safely to the most appropriate medical facility.

5.2 Triage Protocol (Mass Casualty Incidents)

In incidents with multiple patients, the START (Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment) system will be used:

  • RED (Immediate): Life-threatening injuries that are survivable with immediate intervention.
  • YELLOW (Delayed): Serious, non-life-threatening injuries.
  • GREEN (Minor): "Walking wounded," minor injuries.
  • BLACK (Deceased): No signs of life.

Article 6: Fire Suppression

6.1 Incident Command System (ICS)

All fire ground operations will be managed using the Incident Command System. The first arriving officer will establish command, which will be passed to higher-ranking officers as they arrive on scene. Clear communication and a structured command are essential for safety and efficiency.

6.2 Offensive vs. Defensive Strategy

Command will determine the overall strategy. An **Offensive** attack involves firefighters entering a structure to fight the fire from within. A **Defensive** attack is conducted from the exterior when conditions are too dangerous for an interior attack. The primary goal is always life safety, followed by incident stabilization and property conservation.

Article 7: Disciplinary Action

7.1 Accountability and Corrective Action

All SAFR members are accountable for their actions. Violations of this SOP, or any conduct that discredits the department, will be met with fair and consistent disciplinary action. The goal of discipline is to be corrective, not punitive, to ensure the highest standards are maintained.