When conducting Fire Ops 101, safety is the number-one priority. Some of the more difficult scenarios may require a one-to-one instructor/student ratio. The most common safety concerns include claustrophobia (confined space exercise) and slips and falls. There must be EMS personnel with a transport vehicle onsite in case of medical emergencies. All Fire Ops 101 scenarios must follow the applicable NFPA standards (e.g., NFPA 1403 - live fire training) and participants must wear protective gear at all times.

You will also want to perform a medical check of all participants. Visit the Morning Medical Check section of Executing Fire Ops 101 for more information.

It is recommended that each participant signs a waiver form prior to starting the event. Check with your local city/county attorney regarding appropriate language for the waiver.

A note on fit testing:

Fire Ops 101 Events should do a qualitative fit test to assure mask fit for the participant.  This test can be conducted by placing the mask on the participant then using a particular test agent that creates a subjective sensation (taste, irritation, smell) to the respirator wearer.  During this process we explain that fire fighters are required to go through a more specific fit testing procedure called a quantitative fit test, due to the hazards in their work environment.  This test is much more time consuming and is not feasible for a Fire Ops 101 event.

Download: Sample Waiver and Release Form

Download: Applicable NFPA Standards