ERT Search and Rescue Operations 2

Question 1

Before entering a permit-required confined space rescue, what is the FIRST action a rescuer must take?

Accepted Answer

Test the atmosphere for oxygen levels, flammable gases, and toxic contaminants

Answer

Immediately enter to reach the victim as quickly as possible

Answer

Establish a rope retrieval system at the entry point

Answer

Notify family members and document the victim's identity

Question 2

In FEMA's Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) system, what distinguishes a Type I task force from a Type II task force?

Accepted Answer

Type I (Heavy) teams have greater personnel, equipment, and capability than Type II (Medium) teams

Answer

Type I teams operate only in urban environments; Type II teams operate only in rural areas

Answer

Type I teams are federally funded; Type II teams are state-funded

Answer

Type I teams specialize in water rescue; Type II teams specialize in structural collapse

Question 3

What is a 'litter' in the context of search and rescue patient movement?

Accepted Answer

A stretcher or basket device used to safely transport an injured patient

Answer

Debris scattered across a collapse site that must be cleared before rescue

Answer

The established boundary of the rescue operation perimeter

Answer

Documentation forms completed after a successful rescue

Question 4

In a structural collapse rescue, which hazard poses the MOST immediate threat of mass casualty if not controlled?

Accepted Answer

Natural gas leaking from ruptured supply lines

Answer

Asbestos fibers released from damaged insulation

Answer

Lead paint dust disturbed by structural damage

Answer

Mold spores released from water-damaged materials

Question 5

What is a 'void space' in the context of structural collapse rescue?

Accepted Answer

A survivable pocket within a collapsed structure where a victim may be trapped alive

Answer

An officially cleared area outside the collapse zone

Answer

The empty channel through which a rope system is routed

Answer

A staging area where rescue equipment is stored during operations

Question 6

What is 'secondary collapse' and why is it a critical concern during structural rescue?

Accepted Answer

An additional collapse of weakened structure that can injure or kill rescuers and victims after the initial event

Answer

A planned controlled demolition used to safely remove debris from the rescue site

Answer

The simulated collapse scenario used for rescue team training exercises

Answer

The collapse of temporary shoring installed by rescue teams

Question 7

Which NFPA standard governs operations and training for technical search and rescue incidents, including structural collapse and confined space rescue?

Accepted Answer

NFPA 1670 – Standard on Operations and Training for Technical Search and Rescue Incidents

Answer

NFPA 1983 – Standard on Life Safety Rope and Equipment for Emergency Services

Answer

NFPA 472 – Standard for Competence of Responders to Hazardous Materials Incidents

Answer

NFPA 1500 – Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Program