Search and rescue in fire response

Research organization

The search for victims is carried out in two distinct phases and according to a precise methodology.

Primary research

• Performed from the very beginning of the intervention
• Priority given to areas where victims are likely to be located
• It starts near the hearth and then gradually spreads out.
• Carried out simultaneously with the shutdown

Secondary research

• After the disaster was brought under control
• In-depth and systematic research
• Performed by different pairs if possible

Progression through the building

Search order in a multi-story building:

1. Floor of the residence (priority)
2. Next floor, then top floor
3. Intermediate and lower floors

Movement techniques

• Adjustment according to the smoke level:
• Standing position in a clear atmosphere
• Squatting position in the presence of light smoke
• On all fours if there is a high concentration of smoke
• Going down stairs backwards
• Progressing along the walls in a circular circuit
• Permanent physical connection between teammates

When moving through smoke-filled environments, visibility can become extremely reduced. The use of a An angled lamp attached to the suit allows the environment to be illuminated while keeping the hands free., This facilitates progress and the search for victims, particularly in heavily smoke-filled areas.

Secure Waiting Areas (SWAs)

Intervention procedure:

1. Verification with the head of the establishment

2. Consulting the plans

3. Contact with people in quarantine

4. Recognition of EAS

5. Decision: lockdown or evacuation

Photo of a bay window accessible from the outside to the MEA in the ERP

Marking system

Standardized coding:

• A vertical line: recognition in progress
• Cross: reconnaissance complete
• Circle around the cross: second reconnaissance carried out
• Marking at the bottom for visibility in case of smoke

To indicate the progress of reconnaissance, the teams use a standardized marking system directly on the doors or walls. marking pens specially designed for interventions, like the Weber Rescue marking pen, allow these markers to be made quickly and visibly even in difficult conditions.

Discovery of a victim

Rescue procedure

1. Contact with the victim
2. Explanation of the procedure
3. Equipment with evacuation hood
4. The mission was entrusted to the rescuer with the greatest possible autonomy.
5. Evacuation to a safe zone

Decontamination after intervention

During reconnaissance and search operations for victims, firefighters are exposed to numerous toxic substances produced by combustion. Smoke and soot contain, in particular, PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons), carcinogenic compounds that can be deposited on the skin and penetrate the body.

It is therefore essential to proceed with a rapid decontamination after the procedure in order to limit health risks.

Specific solutions such as PAK EX or DeWipe allow for the effective removal of these toxic residues. Designed for firefighters and emergency professionals, this product works deep down to remove soot and combustion particles from the skin, while remaining gentle enough for frequent use.

Used immediately after the procedure, it constitutes a first line of protection against skin absorption of pollutants from fires.