WARREN COUNTY FIRE / EMS AGENCIES
COUNTYWIDE TERMINOLOGY + UNIT NUMBERING
The following terms are deemed acceptable, common terminology for use by all Warren County Fire and
E.M.S. units and the dispatchers of Warren County Emergency Services.
ACCOUNTABILITY
OFFICER
Assigned Officer responsible for the tracking and verification of personnel on the fireground. *added 423-14 via Slicers doc
ACKNOWLEDGED CALL
(AK)
A new status code recently added in anticipation of the MDC deployment to allow units to show that
they have received (Acknowledged) a stacked call.
ADMINISTRATIVE DETAIL
(AD)
Fire Status Code: Used to show that a unit is out of the station on a detail but still available to respond
to an incident. Because the unit is out of station, any split crew unit is placed in Split Crew
(unavailable) status.
A.L.S. (ALS)
Advanced Life Support - Generally refers to EMT Intermediate procedures or equipped vehicle.
A.M.A.R.S.
Automatic Mutual Aid Response System - Other agencies predetermined to automatically respond
with each other to incidents.
ADMIN
A radio unit designator for use by Department Administrative personnel.
AFFIRMATIVE
This indicates YES.
AIR UNIT (A)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A unit with an air compressor and/or cascade system transported on
a trailer or vehicle and used to refill SCBA bottles on the scene of large incidents. Salem Twp (71)
and Franklin City (16) have self-contained units. Other agencies having cascade-only throughout the
county (Clearcreek (21), Mason (52), and Wayne Twp. (91)
ALARM
Electronically generated notification for Emergency Assistance.
ALARM ASSIGNMENT
An initial/supplemental group of resources, specific by department, designed to match resources to the
size and nature of an incident.
ALL CLEAR
There are no victims of the fire.
AREA COMMAND
(ICS-RELATED)
A designation established to: 1) oversee the management of multiple incidents that are being handled
by an Incident Command System organization; or 2) to oversee the management of a very large
incident that has multiple Incident Management Teams assigned to it. Area Command has the
responsibility to set overall strategy and priorities, allocate critical resources based on priorities,
ensure that incidents are properly managed, and ensure that objectives are met and strategies
followed.
AT DESTINATION (AT)
Fire Status Code: Used to show when a unit has arrived at a location. Can be related or not related to
an incident.
AT HOSPITAL (AH)
Fire Status Code: Used to log a unit at the hospital. This status does not time out by default due to the
inability to normally reach units by radio while at the hospital.
AT PATIENT (AP)
Fire Status Code: Used to log when the E.M.S. crew arrives at the patient. This is an EMSIRS
requirement and is used to show the time difference from when the unit arrives “On Scene” and when
the crew arrives at the patient.
AT QUARTERS (AQ)
Fire Status Code: Was configured for units that wish to log when they arrive “At Quarters”. This status
places the unit in a clear or available status.
ATTACK (AT)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A specialized piece of fire apparatus that provides minimum E.M.S
and fire suppression capabilities.
ATV (ATV)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): An off-road vehicle that is capable of searching an area, transporting
crews to remote areas and removing patients or persons from remote emergency scenes to treatment
or other areas, i.e.: Quad runners, Gators, etc.
AVAILABLE (AV)
Fire Status Code: Used to show that a unit is available to respond to an incident.
Adopted: 11/30/93
Revised:04/24/2014
Effective: 03/26/2012
Authorized by: WCFCA
4/4/13; WACKY 5/8/13
Page: 1 of 11
WARREN COUNTY FIRE / EMS AGENCIES
COUNTYWIDE TERMINOLOGY + UNIT NUMBERING
AVAILABLE BY RADIO (AR)
Fire Status Code: Also known as “Available Returning”, this was configured specifically for split crew
units so they could place themselves available returning to quarters or by radio yet leave their split
crew unit unavailable.
AVAILABLE ON SCENE
(AS)
Fire Status Code: Used by units that wish to remain on the scene of an incident yet be available to
respond to another incident.
B.L.S. (BLS)
Basic Life Support - Generally refers to non-paramedic procedures or equipped vehicle.
BATTALION (BA)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): Designates the Duty Officer-in-Charge of a Fire or E.M.S.
department or division of a department.
BIKE (BI)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): Non-transport E.M.S. unit.
BOAT (BO)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A rigid watercraft capable of supporting equipment to affect rescue
and/or search operations on water.
BRUSH (B)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A lightweight fire apparatus specially equipped to fight wild land fires
(generally 4-wheel drive).
BUILDING COLLAPSE
When a structure is no longer in the position that it was originally constructed. The collapsed building
may or may not have people trapped and the ability to render the building safe will be attempted by
technical rescue personnel with the assistance of specialized individuals, e.g. inspectors, engineers.
C.A.D. DOWN
An indication that the Computer Aided Dispatch program is inoperable and unit dispatching tables are
not available for use by the Dispatcher. “Station” dispatching will be initiated.
CALL STATION ALARM
An all-inclusive alarm type / An Incident Type in CAD to prompt the dispatching of both fire and law.
Deerfield Commons is the only known place in the county whose alarm comes in as a call station with
a recorded message. The person in charge of the alarm system defined the alarm as all-inclusive
(law, fire, medical).
CAN HANDLE
The apparatus and crews on the scene can handle the incident; all other companies responding can
go in service and return to quarters.
CANCELLED CHECKS
Used when units no longer require a safety check. This status effectively cancels a unit’s safety
checks. Because Cancelled Checks was designed to be used in conjunction with and is configured
like On Scene, only without a timeout value, care should be taken to only use CC when a unit is not
available or recommendable.
CAR (CA)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A vehicle used by Fire or E.M.S. personnel to perform various duties.
CLEAR STATUS
A “Clear” or "Blank" Status is a default status that must be configured prior to configuring any other
statuses in CAD and cannot be deleted. A clear status type effectively becomes a Clear or "available"
status. Clear status types are “Available”, “Returning to Quarters”, and “At Quarters”.
CHAPLAIN (CH)
Support person who provides spiritual, prayer, invocation, and related services for an individual or
organization.
COMM. OFFICER
Member of a fire or E.M.S. agency whose responsibility is to maintain that agency’s radio and paging
equipment.
COMMAND
Emergency scene radio designation for the IC (Incident Commander). Refers to the person, the
functions, and the location of command.
1. Establish – Initial setup of the incident management system.
2. Assume – The movement of command to an officer of higher rank or authority.
3. Transfer – The movement of command to an officer of equal or lower rank.
4. Terminate – The release of or the final step in the incident management system.
Adopted: 11/30/93
Revised:04/24/2014
Effective: 03/26/2012
Authorized by: WCFCA
4/4/13; WACKY 5/8/13
Page: 2 of 11
WARREN COUNTY FIRE / EMS AGENCIES
COUNTYWIDE TERMINOLOGY + UNIT NUMBERING
COMMAND MODES
Defensive – Exterior attack, with related support designed to stop the forward progress of the fire and
then provide fire control.
Offensive – Interior attack, with related support designed to quickly bring a fire under control.
COMMAND OFFICER
The Chief, Assistant Chief, or highest-ranking officer of a Fire or E.M.S. agency.
COMMAND POST
The standard position for Incident Command, usually stationary at the command vehicle or apparatus.
COMMUNICATIONS
Radio designation for the Dispatch Center at Warren County Emergency Operations Center.
CONFINED SPACE
RESCUE
CORONER
Where a space has limited access or egress and/or is deficient in breathable air, specialized technical
rescue personnel will be required to enter the space to attempt any rescues, recovery or mitigation of
the situation.
A Warren County Board of Commissioners Department called to the scene of deaths within the
County.
Radio Call Signs
4-UNION-10 Coroner
4-UNION-11 Chief Investigator
4-UNION-12 Investigator
DECONTAMINATION UNIT
(DECON) (D)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): Large self-contained apparatus, which is easily deployed for largescale decontamination of civilians or emergency personnel. The unit contains large tents for
undressing, washing and redressing. Also contains self-contained generators for long-term use.
Decon Unit is stored at Lebanon 42 and can be deployed for long periods of time.
DEFENSIVE MODE
Command option when the Rescue Mode is not imminent and there are NO life-safety issues. This is
also when resources are not available (second or third due engine companies). This Mode is declared
when risks outweigh benefits. This mode identifies an exterior attack for an extended duration-“Risk a
little to Save a little” *added 4-23-14 via Slicers doc
DETAIL
Any activity that is not an incident (e.g. parades, field exercises or training, flushing of hydrants.)
DISPATCH
Radio designation for the dispatch centers at both Lebanon and Franklin Communications Centers.
DISPATCH TO MDC (DM)
Fire Status Code: An automatic status configured in and assigned by CAD anytime a dispatch occurs
to an MDC-equipped unit. This status is the same as “Dispatched”. Default is 8 minutes.
DISPATCHED (DP)
Fire Status Code: Used to show that a unit has been dispatched to an incident but has not yet
responded. Default is 8 minutes.
DISPATCHED FROM
STACKED QUEUE (DS)
Fire Status Code: An automatic status configured in and assigned by CAD anytime a unit receives a
dispatch from the stacked queue. This status is not normally assigned by a dispatcher.
DIVE RESCUE
Trained SCUBA rescue divers available for underwater operations: rescue, recovery or stabilization of
an emergency incident
DIVISION
(ICS-RELATED)
Used to divide an incident into geographical areas of operation. Divisions are identified by alphabetic
characters for horizontal applications and often by numbers when used in buildings. Divisions are also
used at NIMS EOC levels and are found organizationally between Branches and Units.
DOOR CONTROL
DRIVER PUMP
OPERATIONS (DPO)
E.M.S. (EM)
Adopted: 11/30/93
The process of ensuring the entrance door providing access to the fire area is controlled and closed as
much as possible after teams enter the structure. Steps must be taken to prevent the door from
locking behind the entering members. By controlling the door, we are controlling the flow path of fire
conditions from the high pressure of the fire area towards the low pressure area on the other side of
the door. Door control also limits fire development by controlling the flow path of fresh air at the lower
level of the open door towards the seat of the fire. *added 4-23-14 via Slicers doc
A description of the duties and responsibilities that the Drivers (Position “D”) are required to perform
on scene. *added 4-23-14 via Slicers doc
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): The designated Duty Officer-in-Charge of an E.M.S. department or
division.
Revised:04/24/2014
Effective: 03/26/2012
Authorized by: WCFCA
4/4/13; WACKY 5/8/13
Page: 3 of 11
WARREN COUNTY FIRE / EMS AGENCIES
EMERGENCY ALERT TONE
EMERGENCY BUTTON
ACTIVATION
EMERGENCY
EVACUATION SIGNAL
EMERGENCY
OPERATIONS CENTER
(EOC) (ICS-RELATED)
EMERGENCY SERVICES
COUNTYWIDE TERMINOLOGY + UNIT NUMBERING
The audible tone of consistent frequency and duration that is intended to draw attention to a particular
radio announcement. This is Alert Tone # 2 on the console, reserved for the highest emergencies
only, such as MAYDAYS and Evacuation Orders.
The term used to announce that a unit has activated their emergency button on their portable radio to
indicate that they are experiencing an emergency and need immediate assistance. The Emergency
Button Activation may occur concurrently with a MAYDAY.
An audible signal used on the fireground to alert personnel of the need or order to evacuate a
structure. The signal is three sequential sets of three long air horn blasts as well as the radio
“Emergency Alert Tone” and radio announcement to evacuate.
A location from which centralized emergency management can be performed. EOC facilities are
established by an agency or jurisdiction to coordinate the overall agency or jurisdictional response and
support to an emergency.
A Board of County Commissioners department with two divisions that provides life and property
protection.
Communications - The regional 9-1-1 radio center providing primary dispatching services for the
majority of the county’s Police, Fire and E.M.S. agencies.
Emergency Management - Provides coordination and resources to assist in the mitigation of an
incident in accordance with Ohio Revised Code section 5502.
RADIO CALL SIGNS
4-DAVID-10
Director of the Emergency Services Department
4-DAVID-11
Operations Manager of the Communications Division
4-EDWARD-11
Operations Manager of the Emergency Management Division
4-EDWARD-12
LEPC/Grants Coordinator
EMERGENCY TRAFFIC
The terminology that will be used when a unit has priority communication to advise units on the scene
of potentially dangerous circumstances that exist. Examples of situations in which EMERGENCY
TRAFFIC may be declared include, but are not limited to, the potential of structural failure, conditions
that may present a risk to firefighters’ safety, water supply interruption, changing fire conditions, etc.
ENGINE (E)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A basic piece of fire apparatus with a minimum of 750 gpm (gallons
per minute) pump and 500 gallon water tank. Generally carries hose and related tools for fire
suppression activities.
ENTRAPMENT
Any condition or area that impedes or prevents withdrawal of a victim.
EXPOSURE
Any life and/or property endangered by the incident.
EXTRICATION
The removal of trapped victims or persons.
When a determination of the first arriving officer deems rescue is NOT imminent. This mode may start
out with a quick exterior attack and transition to an interior attack. Command will announce as a
“Working Fire”
Water supply connection on Commercial and Multi-Family Buildings, which supplies water to the
sprinkler system and/or standpipe system.
FIRE ATTACK MODE
FIRE DEPARTMENT
CONNECTION (FDC)
FIRE INVESTIGATION
TEAM (F.I.T.) (FT)
Authorized group of fire investigators established under the authority of the Warren County
Prosecutor’s Office, established for the purpose of investigating the origin and cause of fire, and
participates in the follow-up investigation of the fire incident case.
FIRE/FLAMES SHOWING
Visible fire/flames at scene.
FLASHOVER
A transition in the development of a compartment fire when surfaces exposed to thermal radiation from
fire gases in excess of 1100°F reach ignition temperature more or less simultaneously. This causes
the fire to spread rapidly throughout the space, resulting in fire involvement of the entire compartment
or enclosed space.
Adopted: 11/30/93
Revised:04/24/2014
Effective: 03/26/2012
Authorized by: WCFCA
4/4/13; WACKY 5/8/13
Page: 4 of 11
WARREN COUNTY FIRE / EMS AGENCIES
FLOW PATH
FLOW PATH CONTROL
COUNTYWIDE TERMINOLOGY + UNIT NUMBERING
The movement of heat and smoke from the higher pressure within the fire area towards the lower
pressure areas accessible via doors, window openings and roof structures. As the heated fire gases
are moving towards the low pressure areas, the energy of the fire is pulling in additional oxygen from
the low pressure areas. Based on varying building design and the available ventilation openings
(doors, windows, etc.), there may be several flow paths within a structure. Any operations conducted
in the flow path will place members at significant risk due to the increased flow of fire, heat and smoke
toward their position.
The tactic of controlling or closing ventilation points which will: Limit additional oxygen into the space
thereby limiting fire development, heat release rate and smoke production. Control the movement of
the heat and smoke conditions out of the fire area to the exterior and to other areas within the building.
FOAM UNIT (F)
A trailer that holds 300+ gallons of foam. This will be brought to the scene of large scale incidents at
command’s discretion. Brought to the scene with utility type vehicle. Clearcreek has this type of unit
which may require a period of one hour for deployment.
FULLY INVOLVED
Immediate entry and search activities are impossible and victim survival is improbable. The effect of
the fire is such that an "all clear" will not follow.
HAILING
“Fire Hailing” - a common calling channel for unit-to-unit transmissions (chatter channel). This channel
is also the emergency button channel. Should an emergency be declared ALL other radio traffic
on this channel shall cease.
HAZMAT / HAZMAT TEAM
(HM)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A resource that provides support services for mitigating the release
or potential release of a material that threatens the well-being of people, property, and the
environment.
HOT BOX BATTERY
A case containing portable radios batteries (and chargers if requested) that can be utilized to augment
a department’s existing radios during special events or large scale incidents. The “Hot Box” is
maintained by the Warren County Telecommunications Department.
HOT BOX RADIO
A case containing portable radios, batteries, and chargers that can be utilized to augment a
department’s existing radios during special events or large scale incidents. The “Hot Box” is
maintained by the Warren County Telecommunications Department.
IMAT (Incident Management
Assistance Team)
A group of Command officers selected by the host department to service as an expansion of the
Command Structure.
IN THE AREA (IA)
Fire Status Code: Used anytime a unit is in the area of an incident but not yet “On scene”.
INCIDENT
Generic term for any E.M.S./FIRE/HAZ-MAT/RESCUE event or activity being handled by a Fire or
E.M.S. agency.
INCIDENT COMMAND /
INCIDENT COMMANDER
(IC)
INITIAL RAPID
INTERVENTION CREW
(IRIC)
Fire Status Code:
 Designed to visually display on the CAD status screen which unit is in command of an incident.
This also provides a way to historically log in CAD who was in command of an incident.
 The individual responsible for the command of all functions at the field response level.
 Referred to as “Command” of the incident. This is the first or highest ranking Officer or Acting
Officer on the incident, who is responsible for the oversight or direction of the incident strategy.
Crew of personnel who temporality assembles to provide for the safety and rescue of the firefighting
crews. Once additional manpower assemble to meet the required “Two-In, Two-Out” Rule, they
assume their primary function on the fireground.
INITIAL REPORT
A short radio transmission as the result of the Initial Size-Up to include a description of conditions and
the confirmation and designation of command.
INSPECTOR (I)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A member of a fire department who has responsibilities in fire
prevention and fire investigation. This person may be a command level officer.
INVESTIGATING
Adopted: 11/30/93
A term generally used with Nothing Showing to indicate that the first officer or company is attempting
to determine nature or extent of incident.
Revised:04/24/2014
Effective: 03/26/2012
Authorized by: WCFCA
4/4/13; WACKY 5/8/13
Page: 5 of 11
WARREN COUNTY FIRE / EMS AGENCIES
COUNTYWIDE TERMINOLOGY + UNIT NUMBERING
INVESTIGATIVE MODE
Command option where the first-in unit investigates and other apparatus stage. This is when there is
NO visible or apparent emergency upon arrival.
Example: Responding for a fire alarm with nothing showing upon arrival.
KNOX BOX
An on-premises, hardened storage box that contains keys for that facility.
L.Z.
Landing Zone - an area of sufficient size and secured for the landing of an Air Ambulance.
LADDER (L)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A vehicle carrying an 85-foot or higher aerial ladder device, ground
ladders, tools, and other fire fighting equipment. May also be equipped with (any or all) a water tank,
hose, and pump.
LEVEL 1 STAGING
LEVEL 2 STAGING
Used on all multiple company emergency responses. The first arriving apparatus of each type
proceeds directly to the scene, and others stand by not passing the last water source or entrance into
the scene, awaiting orders from command.
Used on large scale incidents when additional alarm companies are responding. These companies
are sent to a specified location to await assignment from command.
LIMITED SERVICE
A piece of apparatus is available to respond, however, some of its operation or personnel capabilities
are temporarily inadequate.
LOSS STOPPED
Fire out. No forward progression of the fire.
MANPOWER POOL
Group of personnel assembled away from the incident, which are prepared and teamed for incident
operations.
MASS CASUALTY
INCIDENT
Confirmation that the incident has a high number of victims which indicates that the initial responding
resources will be utilized as well as the assignment of additional resources.
MASS CASUALTY TRAILER
(MC)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A Mass Casualty Incident supply unit with equipment and necessary
items to manage multiple patient incidents. Mason 51 and JEMS 15 have 25-person Casualty Trailers;
Deerfield 58 and JEMS 15 have 100-person casualty tractor trailers.
MAYDAY
A radio call for help from an individual or group during an interior attack where the threat to life is
imminent.
A standard three-word distress call to indicate that a firefighter, emergency medical technician, or
team is in immediate danger and requires assistance.
MECHANIC
A person who oversees the mechanical fitness of a department’s apparatus.
MEDIC (M)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): An Emergency Medical Transport Vehicle which has Paramedic(s)
on board.
MEDICAL DIRECTOR (MD)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A board certified physician who oversees the medical protocols of an
agency or department.
MEDICAL REHAB GROUP
Group of personnel who are assigned to monitoring, documentation and possible care of personnel
who have been engaged in firefighting operations.
MOVE UP
Personnel and apparatus are sent to a specific fire or E.M.S. station for possible assignment to a detail
or incident. An example of a move up is station and/or area coverage. A move up is a ROUTINE
RESPONSE.
NEGATIVE
This indicates NO.
NOTHING SHOWING
No visible smoke or flames at the scene usually used with the term “investigating”.
ON DECK
The movement from one position to another. This is used as a description when personnel move from
the Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC) to interior Fire Attack, Search Crews, etc.
ON SCENE (OS)
Fire Status Code: Used to log apparatus or unit at the location of an incident.
ON THE AIR (OA)
Fire Status Code: Station acknowledgment of the incident. [i.e. Station 11 “on the air” for the incident
at 120 Maple] This is to be used for SQUAD AND FIRE incidents. The sole purpose of this is to let
the Communications Center know that your agency is aware of the dispatched incident.
INDIVIDUAL UNITS WILL NOT GIVE AN “ON THE AIR”.
Adopted: 11/30/93
Revised:04/24/2014
Effective: 03/26/2012
Authorized by: WCFCA
4/4/13; WACKY 5/8/13
Page: 6 of 11
WARREN COUNTY FIRE / EMS AGENCIES
COUNTYWIDE TERMINOLOGY + UNIT NUMBERING
OPERATIONS
(FORWARD OPS)
Assigned Officer who provides tactical direction to personnel engaged in firefighting and rescue
operations. This person can be located close to or in the building where the incident is taking place.
PARAMEDIC (P)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): Refers to a person certified to perform advanced E.M.S. procedures.
PERSONAL
ACCOUNTABILITY
REPORT (PAR)
A system utilized by the Incident Commander (IC) via the radio and accountability System, to verify the
status of personnel at an incident.
POLICE
Generic term to refer to appropriate law enforcement officer or unit be it a Police Department, Sheriff,
or State Patrol.
PRIMARY HYDRANT /
WATER SOURCE
Hydrant or water source closest to the incident.
PRIMARY SEARCH
A rapid search of all involved and exposed areas affected by the incident that can be safely entered.
Its purpose is to verify the removal and/or safety of all occupants.
PUBLIC INFORMATION
OFFICER
(ICS RELATED)
The individual at field or EOC level that has been delegated by the authority to prepare public
information releases and to interact with the media. Duties will vary depending upon the agency and
the NIMS level.
QUARTERS
QUICK RESPONSE
VEHICLE (QRV)
QUINT (Q)
RESCUE MODE
R.I.C. (RT)
(FORMALLY R.I.T.)
A Fire or E.M.S. station.
ALS provider who responds to emergencies in a car.
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A vehicle carrying an elevated ladder or platform in addition to a
water tank, hose, pump and ground ladders. May also carry related specialized equipment.
Command option where critical life safety situations are present. Command will announce as a
“Working Fire”. This mode will be declared when there is entrapment of occupants or firefighters. This
should be considered on non-fire related emergencies. (structural collapse, confined space, trench
collapse) The Rescue Mode ends when the occupants or firefighters have been removed or the
determination for rescue is NOT possible.
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): Rapid Intervention Crew - consists of a piece of apparatus (usually
an engine, ladder, or rescue) staffed with three (3) to four (4) firefighters from a neighboring fire
department. Crew of personnel solely dedicated to the safety and rescue of the firefighting crews.
R.I.C may also be requested for incidents not involving fire (structural collapse, confined space or
other situations deemed necessary by the Incident Commander).
RADIO HOT BOX
A case containing portable radios, batteries, and chargers that can be utilized to augment a
department’s existing radios during special events or large scale incidents. The “Hot Box” is
maintained by the Warren County Telecommunications Department.
REASSIGNED (RA)
Fire Status Code: An automatic status configured in CAD assigned anytime a unit swaps a stacked
incident with an active incident.
REHAB UNIT (RH)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A motorized vehicle or trailer that can deliver rehabilitation equipment
to the scene of an emergency and provide cooling, heating, or shelter from the elements. At least one
E.M.S. crew will need to be detailed to the REHAB Unit to assist in providing rehab service to the
operating crews.
RESCUE (R)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A vehicle that is stocked with the equipment that is used in rescue
work.
Light Rescue: : A vehicle equipped to handle One or two Rescue Disciplines for a limited operational
period with a properly staffed and trained crew to accomplish the missions of those limited Rescue
Disciplines.
Medium Rescue: A vehicle equipped to handle at least FOUR Rescue Disciplines for an limited
operational period with a properly staffed and trained crew to accomplish the missions of those
Rescue Disciplines.
Heavy Rescue: A vehicle equipped to handle ALL the Rescue Disciplines for an extended operational
period with a properly staffed and trained crew to accomplish the missions of those Rescue
Disciplines.
Adopted: 11/30/93
Revised:04/24/2014
Effective: 03/26/2012
Authorized by: WCFCA
4/4/13; WACKY 5/8/13
Page: 7 of 11
WARREN COUNTY FIRE / EMS AGENCIES
COUNTYWIDE TERMINOLOGY + UNIT NUMBERING
RESPONDING (RE)
Fire Status Code: Used to show a unit is going to the designated location under emergency conditions
using red lights and siren.
RESPONDING ROUTINE
(RR)
Fire Status Code: Used to show that a unit is going to the scene or other designated location with the
flow of traffic.
RETURNING TO
QUARTERS (RQ)
Fire Status Code: Configured to allow units to put themselves “Available” when returning to quarters
while leaving the Split Crew unit unavailable until they are “At Quarters”.
ROPE RESCUE
Technical rescue term: trained Rope Rescue Operations and Technician certified staff available to
provide support for any rescue operation, below grade, at grade or above grade utilizing rescue ropes
and associated hardware.
A water supply system established where a distribution system is not present. Mostly found in the rural
parts of the locality where apparatus is required to shuttle water to the incident.
A member of the Command Staff at the incident or within an EOC responsible for monitoring and
assessing safety hazards or unsafe situations and for developing measures for ensuring personnel
safety. The Safety Officer may have assistants.
RURAL WATER SUPPLY
SAFETY OFFICER
(ICS RELATED)
SCENE IDENTIFICATION
(SEE INITIAL REPORT FOR
NAMING)
Upon the establishment of Command, the scene will usually be identified by the street name or by the
business name. The ALPHA side will be street address side, the BRAVO side will be the side
clockwise of the Building (left side), the CHARLIE side will be the back side of the building and the
DELTA will be the right side of the building as you are looking at it from the ALPHA side. In the event
the ALPHA side is not the address side of the building some sort of notification or notification device
shall be used to identify the ALPHA side. The BRAVO, CHARLIE and DELTA side will continue to
follow in a clockwise rotation. Exposure will be identified as BRAVO 1, CHARLIE 1, DELTA 1, etc.
SECONDARY HYDRANT /
WATER SUPPLY
Hydrant or water source near the incident, but from another direction that is separate from the primary
hydrant or water source.
SECONDARY SEARCH
A second search of the facility after emergency control operations are completed to confirm the
absence or presence of victims.
SECOND DISPATCH
Used by the dispatcher anytime they have to dispatch an incident a 2nd time due to no response by
any unit after the initial alarm (DP or DM Status) times out. This effectively restarts the timer at a new
rate. Default is 4 minutes.
SIZE-UP
The on going process of situation evaluation at the incident by the incident commander.
S.L.I.C.E.R.S.
Slice is a Fire Attack Mode tactic used to reduce temperatures inside a building prior to entry by
firefighting personnel for extinguishment or rescue.
SMOKE SHOWING
Smoke is visible at the scene.
SPLIT CREW (SC)
Fire Status Code: A status automatically assigned by CAD to show that the unit in this status is not
available to respond because its crew is on another piece of apparatus.
SQUAD (S)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): An Emergency Medical Transport Vehicle which provides Basic Life
Support (B.L.S.) care.
STAGED (ST)
Fire Status Code: Used for large, complex, or lengthy operations. Additional units are staged together
and committed in a specific location under command of a staging officer.
STANDBY
Indicator of radio traffic that cannot be accepted at this time. Person initiating traffic should wait until
contacted.
SUPPORT UNIT
Any vehicle that does not fall into the Engine, Rescue, Ladder or Tower definition but is equipped to
support department operations. Is not an initially-dispatched vehicle, will be requested by agency
later. May have any or all of the following tools: cascade, generator, lights.
TANKER (T) OR
TENDER (T)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A fire apparatus with a permanently mounted water tank designed for
transport of 1,000+ gallons of water to incidents with limited pumping capacity.
Adopted: 11/30/93
Revised:04/24/2014
Effective: 03/26/2012
Authorized by: WCFCA
4/4/13; WACKY 5/8/13
Page: 8 of 11
WARREN COUNTY FIRE / EMS AGENCIES
TECHNICAL RESCUE
TEAM (TECH RESCUE) (TR)
COUNTYWIDE TERMINOLOGY + UNIT NUMBERING
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): Incident Commander will request by specific agency the resource(s)
needed for the incident. This will be dispatched with a CAD ID “TR” and Call Sign “Tech Rescue”.
(see rope rescue, dive rescue, trench rescue, building collapse, wide area search, water rescue,
confined space rescue, and hazmat team for further related definitions.)
TELECOM
A Warren County Board of Commissioners Department – Telecommunications.
Radio Call Signs
4-TOM-10 Director
4-TOM-30 Telephone Division Manager
4-TOM-40 Radio Division Manager
4-TOM-50 Data Division Manager
4-TOM-60 CAD/RMS Division Manager
TO DESTINATION (TO)
Fire Status Code: Used to log a unit that is going to a location not associated with an incident or when
a unit is changing locations on an incident.
TO HOSPITAL (TH)
Fire Status Code: Used to show a unit is transporting to a medical facility.
TOWER (TO)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A vehicle carrying an 85-foot or higher aerial platform device, ground
ladders, tools, and other fire fighting equipment. May also be equipped with (any or all) a water tank,
hose, and pump.
TRAINING / SAFETY (TS)
A member of a fire department who has responsibilities in Training and Safety. This person may be a
command level officer.
TRANSPORTING
An alternate term used when a squad is going to a hospital or other medical facility with a victim of an
incident.
TRENCH RESCUE
Technical rescue term: trained Rescue Operations and Technician certified staff available to provide
support for any rescue operation where there may be a victim trapped by the collapse of the earth or
some other engulfment hazard.
TRUCK OPERATIONS
Support Operations that are assigned to Truck Companies that provide assistance in firefighting and
rescue operations.
UNAVAILABLE
Indicates apparatus is not capable of responding to an incident. This status will include one of two
basic qualifiers: Operational Problem or Mechanical Problem entered in the location field.
UNAVAILABLE-BROWN
OUT (UB)
A specific type of unavailable status in CAD added July 2013, for fire service to indicate that a unit or
entire station is ‘browned out’ and not staffed.”
UNDER CONTROL
The incident is contained but not totally resolved. Can be handled by the units assigned.
UNIFIED COMMAND
(ICS RELATED)
UNIFIED COMMAND AREA
(ICS RELATED)
In ICS, Unified Command is a unified team effort which allows all agencies with responsibility for the
incident, either geographical or functional, to manage an incident by establishing a common set of
incident objectives and strategies. This is accomplished without losing or abdicating agency authority,
responsibility or accountability.
Established when incidents under an Area Command are multi-jurisdictional. (See also Area
Command and Unified Command)
UPGRADE TO STRUCTURE
FIRE
A request by an incident commander to send the remaining units of a first alarm.
UTILITY (U)
Fire/EMS CAD Call Sign (Code): A multi-purpose support vehicle.
(V.E.I.S.) VENT-ENTERISOLATE-SEARCH
the approved tactic when entering a structure through an opening (door or window) to search an area
for the location of the fire or to locate possible victims. The priority upon entering the area via a
window is to close the door to that room or area in order to isolate that area being searched from the
fire area. When entering a fire area via a doorway entrance, the door needs to be controlled until the
fire area is further isolated or a charged hose line is advancing on the fire. By isolating the area, we
are controlling the flow path of the fire, heat and smoke towards the ventilation point as well as
controlling the air flow from the ventilation point towards the fire area.
Adopted: 11/30/93
Revised:04/24/2014
Effective: 03/26/2012
Authorized by: WCFCA
4/4/13; WACKY 5/8/13
Page: 9 of 11
WARREN COUNTY FIRE / EMS AGENCIES
COUNTYWIDE TERMINOLOGY + UNIT NUMBERING
VEHICLE COVER (VC)
Fire Status Code: An automatic status assigned to a unit anytime it is put in a vehicle cover condition.
Units in Vehicle Cover status must remain available and recommendable for incidents in the area they
are covering. This unit does not timeout due to the long length and varying amount of time they
remain in this status. An incident is automatically created anytime a vehicle is put in this status in
order to make notification to the owning agency.
VICTIMS
Those members of the public or Agency affected by the incident.
WATER RESCUE
Technical rescue term: trained Rescue Operations and Technician certified staff available to provide
support for any surface rescue operations involving moving or still water. Below the surface requires
the Dive Rescue Team.
WARREN COUNTY
KEY POSITIONS
(SEE EMERGENCY SERVICES,
TELECOM, CORONER)
Warren County Board of Commissioners departments that aid the Warren County Public Safety
Network.
WIDE AREA SEARCH
Technical rescue term: trained individuals available to provide assistance in searching a wide area for
persons missing, potentially injured or otherwise needing outside assistance
WORKING FIRE
Confirmation that the incident has visible smoke or fire, which indicates that the initial responding
resources will be utilized as well as the possibility of additional, needed resources.
ZONE
A predetermined area used to define an incident response.
Adopted: 11/30/93
Revised:04/24/2014
Effective: 03/26/2012
Authorized by: WCFCA
4/4/13; WACKY 5/8/13
Page: 10 of 11
WARREN COUNTY FIRE / EMS AGENCIES
COUNTYWIDE TERMINOLOGY + UNIT NUMBERING
Uniform Fire Station Identifier System
Jurisdiction
Station Number Assignments
Carlisle
11 thru 14
Joint Emergency Medical Services
15
Franklin City
16 thru 18
Franklin Township
19 thru 20
Clearcreek
21 thru 26
Massie
27 thru 29
Turtlecreek
31 thru 39
Lebanon
41 thru 45
Union Township / South Lebanon
46 thru 49
Mason
51 thru 54
Kings Island
55
Deerfield
56 thru 59
Loveland/Symmes
61 thru 64
Reserved for future use
65 thru 69
Morrow
71 thru 75
Hamilton
76 thru 79
Harlan
81 thru 86
Wayne
91 thru 99
*On 4/4/13 at WCFCA meeting, motion to approve by FTFD Chief John Daly, seconded by Deerfield Twp Battalion Chief Doug
Wehmeyer. Mason Fire Deputy Chief Craig Bryant will take this document to the CAB (WACKY) for final approval and resolution at
next meeting.
*On 4/3/14 at WCFCA meeting, CWG motioned to approve the addition of SLICERS documents to the Terminology. Westendorf
motioned on behalf of Chiefs, Mitten seconded. All favor, no opposition. Terms were added by Recording Secretary, Allison Lyons on
4/24/14 and distributed to Chiefs and Emergency Services.
Adopted: 11/30/93
Revised:04/24/2014
Effective: 03/26/2012
Authorized by: WCFCA
4/4/13; WACKY 5/8/13
Page: 11 of 11