Another component of the tactical scene exercise are the mini-tacticals. While the major tactical scenario may last from beginning to culmination of an incident, these are a series of relatively short, quick hitting, job-related exercises. These could be related to operational issues or a current policy or procedure.
Here is an example:
You are a captain of an engine company who has been dispatched to a structure with numerous calls and a report of people trapped. It’s in your first due. As your engineer pulls out of the station he strikes a car. What would you do and why?
Here is a checklist of what the evaluators expect:
• I would immediately notify dispatch that we have been involved in a traffic accident and have them replace us with another engine. I would ensure that the Battalion Chief knew we were no longer responding (this is particularly true if your department dispatches on one channel and has a separate tactical frequency).
• I would check the condition of my firefighters and the condition of the people in the other vehicle.
• I would request PD for traffic control and fire and EMS units for the injured.
• I would ensure my uninjured firefighters or I were treating any victims.
• I would have my firefighters place out road cones or flares to prevent a second accident.
• After the injured were treated, I would remind my firefighters not to admit fault or make statements to anyone.
• I would get names and contact information of any witnesses.
• I would make sure the appropriate vehicle accident and injury paperwork was completed.
• I would make sure the fire chief and city attorney were notified.
• I would make sure that the families of any injured firefighters were notified.
• If necessary, I would facilitate critical incident stress debriefing
Your oral presentation is an important part of the promotion assessment. Here’s a quick and dirty list of possible scenarios you should have nailed down before you are presented with the real deal. It is important to speak clearly, initiate eye contact with your audience, and speak genuinely and concisely. Don’t be afraid to jot down notes, there’s nothing worse than sitting down after a speech and feeling like you forgot something. Practice each one in front of peers or family and be sure to time yourself.
You are a Captain of an Engine company. Your assignment is to teach the new firefighter how to use the Emergency Response guidebook. You have been provided with a copy of the book.
You have 15 minutes to prepare a 5 minute presentation on how to properly use the guide book.
You are a Captain of an Engine company. Your assignment is to teach the new firefighter how to use a fire extinguisher. You have been provided with a fire extinguisher.
You have 15 minutes to prepare a 5 minute presentation on how to properly use the guide book.
You are a new Captain. You are addressing your crew for the first time. You have 15 minutes to prepare a 5 minute presentation to your crew.
You are assigned by the Battalion Chief to make a presentation to the local neighborhood watch group about the importance of brush clearance.
You have 15 minutes to prepare a 5 minute presentation to the panel.
You are a new Captain who has been invited by the Chamber of Commerce to make a presentation about the importance of Fire Prevention inspections.
You have 15 minutes to prepare a 5 minute presentation to the panel.
