Firefighter Type 1 (squad boss)

Duties

• Briefs subordinates on tactical assignment, fuels, topography, weather, safety zones and escape routes throughout the operational period.
• Responsible for the safety and welfare of subordinates during assignments, especially when separated from the balance of the crew.
• Develops instantaneous tactics as required by the fuel type, weather, terrain conditions, in conjunction with defined strategy received from supervisor.
• Properly uses portable or mobile multi-channel radio.
  • Uses correct nomenclature.
  • Correctly prepares radio for operation.
  • Successfully completes radio check.
  • Selects proper channel.
  • Makes appropriate adjustments (squelch/volume).
  • Changes location to improve reception/transmission (as needed).
  • Protects radio from damage at all times.
  • Uses proper radio procedures and techniques.
  • Exercises proper radio discipline.
  • Describes agency procedures for emergency notification (emergency traffic).
  • Describes limitations of radio communications.
• Properly uses maps and compass.
  • Accurately determines local declination.
  • Uses compass to point to true north.
  • Accurately orients map using compass, landmarks, improved properties, streets, access roads, and topographic features.
  • Accurately identifies current location by determining back azimuths to two identifiable landmarks or topographic features.
  • Verifies location by comparing topographic features or street references with map.
  • Describes location in terms of coordinates or other acceptable description.
  • Accurately reads map symbols.
  • Accurately computes distance and bearing.
  • Navigates from point to point using map, compass, and pacing.
  • Accurately navigates to an assigned destination.
  • Utilizes available property improvement maps to identify areas of concern.
• Takes appropriate action to safely initiate action during initial attack or when completing assigned wildland fire or prescribed fire tasks.
  • Evaluates Initial Attack Plan.
  • Directs tactical operations which provide safety to the firefighter.
  • Uses appropriate fire suppression strategy.
  • Develops appropriate tactics based on selected strategy, values to be protected and expected fire behavior.
  • Maintains status reporting (ICS 201, Incident Briefing).
  • Properly locates fireline.
  • Uses appropriate fireline construction methods.
  • Requests additional resources as needed.
  • Directs the rearrangement and reduction of fuel.
  • Directs the securing of hazards.
  • Directs the preparation of building/structure.
  • Direct the application of pre-treatment agents (foam, gel, blanket).
• Serves as lookout.
  • Establishes/maintains communications with assigned resources.
  • Chooses position with good view of all aspects of hazard, values to be protected, and personnel.
  • Carries proper equipment (watch, map,radio/batteries).
  • Provide updates on any changes that may compromise the safety of fireline personnel.
  • Provides appropriate warnings and direction for hazardous conditions and/or indications of extreme fire behavior.
• Demonstrates understanding of how to apply the Risk Management Process found in PMS 461, Incident Response Pocket Guide and PMS 410-1, Fireline Handbook.
  • Step 1 Situational awareness
  • Step 2 Hazard assessment
  • Step 3 Hazard control
  • Step 4 Decision point
  • Step 5 Evaluate
• Checks in at incident.
• Receives briefing from supervisor.
• Properly sizes up fire.
• Demonstrates ability to develop strategy and apply appropriate tactics.
• Demonstrates ability to reduce threat of fire exposure to improved properties.
• Demonstrates how to apply LCES.
• Briefs subordinates or relief.
• Keeps crewmembers informed on a regular basis about pertinent information.
• Inspects squad personnel for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Inspects assigned equipment and supplies.
• Provides leadership and supervision for squad members.
• Assists with preparation of reports and records.
• Confirms demobilization instructions with supervisor and brief subordinates.

Position Needs

• S-131, Advanced Firefighting Training
• Qualified Firefighter Type 2