HomeMy WebLinkAbout10010_03 Vehicle Breakdown SOP 2024102810010.03 Vehicle Breakdown Standard Operating
Procedure
Implemented: October 2024 Revised: N/A Next Review: October 2027
This procedure is for internal use only and does not enlarge an employee’s civil liability in any way. The procedure
should not be construed as creating a higher duty of care, in an evidentiary sense, with respect to third party civil claims against employees. A violation of this procedure, if proven, can only form the basis of a complaint by this department for non-judicial administrative action in accordance with the laws governing employee discipline.
Related Policies:
Applicable HI Statutes:
I. PURPOSE To establish a uniform procedure for responding to and managing fire department vehicle
breakdowns, ensuring timely communication and efficient handling of vehicle maintenance,
repair, or towing needs. II. APPLICABILITY This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) applies to all Hawaii Fire Department personnel
operating or supervising the operation of department vehicles, including fire apparatus, ambulances, and support vehicles. III. POLICY 1. Immediate Actions Upon Breakdown
a. Notify Dispatch: The Equipment Operator (EO) shall immediately inform Dispatch of the vehicle's status and location. b. Assess the Situation: i. The EO should determine if the vehicle’s current location poses a safety risk to the public or impedes traffic.
ii. If safe, proceed with securing the vehicle; if hazardous, request additional support as outlined in Section 3 below. 2. Duty Hours Procedure (Monday to Friday, 0800–1630 Hours) a. The EO shall contact the Hawaii Fire Department Maintenance Section directly to
report the issue. b. If the vehicle cannot be moved, the EO shall follow instructions provided by the Maintenance Section for securing or relocating the vehicle. 3. After Hours and Weekend Procedure
a. The EO shall inform the Captain on duty of the breakdown. i. The Captain shall evaluate whether the vehicle can safely remain in its location. b. If Towing is Required i. The Captain shall notify the Battalion Chief to assess the need for immediate towing.
ii. If warranted, the Battalion Chief or Captain will arrange for a towing service. 4. Securing the Vehicle When Immediate Towing is Not Required a. If the vehicle is in a safe location, it should be secured and left until the next Maintenance Section on-duty hours.
b. The EO shall ensure the vehicle is locked, and any equipment or sensitive items are safely stored. 5. Escalation Protocol
10010.03 Vehicle Breakdown Standard Operating
Procedure
Implemented: October 2024 Revised: N/A Next Review: October 2027
a. Should there be any unresolved issues or complications: i. The Assistant Fire Chief of Operations shall be notified for further instruction or support.
ii. If the Assistant Fire Chief of Operations is unavailable, the Deputy Fire Chief shall
be notified. b. The EO, Captain, and Battalion Chief are all responsible for ensuring that this escalation occurs promptly if necessary.
IV. Ambulance Breakdown with Patient 1. Immediate Notification to Dispatch a. Dispatch: i. Arrange for the nearest available ambulance to be redirected to the breakdown location.
ii. The replacement ambulance shall respond with urgency to facilitate a quick
transfer, minimizing any delay in patient transport. 2. Patient Care a. Patient Transfer:
i. Upon the arrival of the replacement ambulance, the EMT/Paramedic shall
coordinate with the new team to ensure a seamless patient transfer. ii. Vital information regarding the patient’s condition, treatment, and any ongoing interventions must be communicated clearly to the incoming team. 3. Securing of Vehicle
a. Securing the Broken Down Ambulance:
i. Once the patient transfer is complete, the EO shall secure the broken-down ambulance. ii. All controlled substances will be inventoried and removed from the Ambulance. iii. If towing or further assistance is required, follow the general breakdown
procedures outlined in Sections III.1–5.
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