Communications Drill-With Video

If you ever need to do a drill that doesn't require alot of preparation and is simple to conduct, can be done indoors and has a positive impact on your members, this might be a concept to consider.

The drill can be conducted using a number of principles.  We chose to do C.A.N. reports, MAYDAY messages and L.U.N.A.R. Reports, with the emphasis strictly on clear and effective communications.  To add realism and reinforce the need for brief and clear messages, we will create realistic background noises and distractions.  Some ideas for these distractions include, but are not limited to;

• Smoke alarm activating
• Low air alarm sounding
• Power saw operating
• Member striking Halligan with sledge or axe (simulate forcible entry)
• Water flowing from nozzle and striking walls and ceilings or ground nearby
• Vent Fan blowing air
• PASS Alarm activated
• Recorded fireground audio clips played at heightened volume (YouTube)
• Pump engaged at high RPM

The noises are intended to be characteristic of actual fireground chaos and sounds.  However you accomplish this isn't as relevant as the idea that you need to create something legitimate and effective.


Two to four members will go during each evolution.  One member will act as the "officer/IC" while one will operate as the firefighter or officer issuing the radio report(s).  An additional firefighter or two may need to assist with creating the background distractions.  Members who will be issuing the report need fire gloves, a radio (worn in whatever manner they will wear it during firefighting operations) and an SCBA with mask.

Preparation for the drill is fairly simple and includes the following;

• Create "Scenario Cards" which will give the member issuing the report some basic information on the situation they are in.  Make sure the info is brief but includes anything that would be pertinent to the type of report they are going to give.  The cards are not intended to be read, but rather to create a mental image.  You may opt to include a photo as well, of an actual incident/situation.
• Set up the area where the report will be issued from.  Whatever you intend to use to create the different noises must be set up in this location.  Based on the variety of options, the location you choose may be anything from an office with a computer you can play audio footage to the outside wall of the firehouse where you might opt to spray a hose stream to make noise.
• Have the member giving the report don the SCBA and Mask and report to the location
• Provide the "officer" that will receive the report with a notepad and pen along with a radio.
• Assure the radio is operating on a private/non-emergency channel.  If any doubt exists, notify your communications center at the start and end of the drill that you are doing training and advise what channel is being used.
• Initiate the exercise, and if possible, record the radio traffic to replay for both members to listen to and confer about afterwards.
• After the "IC/Officer" indicates that the report is understood and has verified it with the other member, terminate the evolution and bring everyone in to discuss the exchange.  Play the audio back first, before any discussion.  Discuss the length of time it takes for the report(s).

The scenario cards are intended to give a brief, bullet point overview.  Not to be read over the radio

Acronym cheat sheets are good for the first few runs, but take them away later in the drill

The drill will conclude when the two members participating feel that the report is understood between themselves.  The end goal is a very brief transaction.  Expect there to be hiccups and speed bumps in the beginning.  Practice the scenarios over and over. Discuss the elements of the different reports you are covering.  Assure that everyone understands the intent of each evolution.  Members may find that they need to adjust how they carry their radios, how they talk (volume, rate) or how they try to explain it.

This is just another company drill idea, it has a lot of flexibility and allows you to craft scenarios that are based on situations your company would encounter.  It fosters radio confidence, strengthens communications skills and gives the participants the opportunity to experience the situation being simulated in a controlled but fairly realistic environment.

Stay safe and train often and realistically!