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Strategic and Tactical Considerations for Fire Protection Systems N0396

Training Specialist

Keith Heckler
301-447-1380

Delivery type

6-day off-campus

Continuing education units

4.1

ACE recommendation

In the lower-division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in fire science.

Fundamental-level course

This 6-day, fundamental-level course is designed to provide Incident Commanders (ICs) with the tools they need to conduct proper pre-incident planning for the target hazards in their communities. This knowledge will help the IC identify what fire protection systems are available at these sites, how they work, and how to use them in developing firefighting objectives and making strategic and tactical firefighting decisions.

The course covers the fundamental procedures for gathering and using information related to the fire protection systems that an IC may need during a fire or related emergency. It includes the basic concepts of pre-incident planning and the strategies an officer might use to share this information with other responders.

The course describes the components of sprinkler systems, stationary fire pumps, standpipe systems, fire alarm systems, smoke management systems and specialty fire protection systems (e.g., Halon™ suppression systems, hood-range systems, water mist systems, etc.).

Pre-course materials and course syllabus

Welcome Letter/Pre-course Assignment: https://apps.usfa.fema.gov/ax/pcm/pcm_n0396.pdf PDF 648KB
Course Syllabus: https://apps.usfa.fema.gov/ax/syll/syllabus_n0396.pdf PDF 290KB

  • Anyone responsible for the command and control of incident operations, preferably in the built environment.
  • Target audience includes command officers, Company Officers (COs), fire department training officers and those acting in these capacities.
  • Target audience also includes those officers who are upwardly mobile in their organizations and will or may be in command positions in the near future.
  • 5 spaces will be reserved for fire prevention officers who are engaged in pre-incident planning with fire protection systems.
  • Note: Local jurisdictions are encouraged to submit applications of both their command officers/COs and fire prevention officers to attend a course together if both meet the selection criteria. Priority selection will be given for up to 5 pairs of such officials per course offering.

    1. Students attending this class should have responsibility for command and control of incident operations and/or any individual who conducts pre-incident surveys or gathers and processes pre-incident data such as fire prevention staff.
    2. Not less than 3 years’ experience in fire suppression emergency operations and/or fire prevention-related activities.
    3. Incident Command System (ICS)-100-level and ICS-200-level training. Preferred courses are Q0462 and Q0463, available through NFA Online. Chief’s signature attests that the applicant has completed this required training.