Rapid Intervention Training
Initial RIT Operations
This class is designed to be an introduction to modern theories and techniques regarding rapid intervention teams (RIT) at fireground operations. The content of this class is based on collected “best practices” and the real-world experiences of the instructors during actual RIT incidents. At the completion of the class, students will be able to:
- Understand the need for RIT.
- Effectively organize personnel and equipment into a RIT.
- Conduct “pre-deployment” size-up and safety measures.
- Transmit a MAYDAY and recognize when to call one.
- Function as a team-member in difficult situations
- Utilize a tag-line and various techniques to locate a downed firefighter
- Utilize various techniques to package and remove a downed firefighter from various situations.
- Recognize and overcome a variety of SCBA related emergencies on themselves & the downed firefighter.
Class will consist of 16-hours of instruction, of which approximately four (4) hours are classroom and the remaining twelve (12) hours are “hands-on”. The first two practical sessions are designed to give the students the knowledge and skills that will be required for the final practical session. This last session will consist of several mock “RIT incidents” of increasing difficulty. During these scenarios the students will have to use their existing and newly acquired skills to overcome the situation and rescue the downed firefighter.
Our RIT classes are known for being both emotionally & physically demanding. We challenge our students to put their skills, tools, and knowledge together in ingenious ways. Problem-solving and teamwork are the cornerstones of any RIT operation, and of this class.
Advanced Level Rapid Intervention
This 16-hour class is designed for firefighters with “moderate” level experience in rapid intervention techniques and firefighter survival. The goal is to update the student on issues and techniques related to rapid intervention. The first day is designed to provide the student with some “street-smart” theories and techniques on rapid intervention and to prepare the students for day two. The second day is dedicated entirely to rapid intervention scenarios of increasing difficulty. These are designed to challenge the student’s mind, teamwork, and skills.
This course will challenge the student with advanced RIT scenarios requiring excellent teamwork and ingenuity. We will review skills for “specific” scenarios such as:
- FF thru / stuck in the floor.
- Removing FF out an upper floor via windows.
- Limited space evolutions.
- Multiple downed FF’s.
To insure that students are successful and prepared for this class, it is recommended that prior to this class, students have “operational-level” RIT training or experience including knowledge of:
- History of & Need for RIT
- RIT-Related Equipment
- Basic RIT deployment skills (locating the downed FF)
- Basic Skills for Moving the Downed Firefighter
- Basic SCBA problem resolution skills
During practical exercises there will be a minimum of one instructor for every ten (10) students. Students will work in rotating groups of approximately ten (10) each. Class will include approximately four (4) hours of classroom and twelve (12) hours of practical training. The practical training is designed to occur in an acquired structure to facilitate the creation of challenging, “real-world” scenarios.
Upcoming Classes
- Sat 9/18/2010: Officer Development School (OPEN)
- Sat 10/9/2010: Engine Company Operations