SOP 206.08 WELFARE SECTOR

It is the policy of the Ennis Fire Department to deal with the welfare of citizens affected by fire or other incidents. It is common for those involved with fire to need assistance with temporary housing, clothing, food, etc. Since the Fire Department is not equipped to fill these needs, it is important that we coordinate, the efforts of those agencies that can render the needed aid.

It is extremely important, in most situations, particularly those involving injury or death, that Fire Department personnel provide for both the physical and emotional welfare of the victims and their relatives and friends. This means that to the best of our abilities, at any particular incident, we will be aware of the needs of all concerned and attempt to deal with them effectively, compassionately, and in a supportive manner. The details and extent of Fire Department involvement is discretionary and depends highly on the particular circumstances; the guideline will be to provide as much assistance as possible within our capabilities.

At all incidents causing serious loss to inhabited dwellings, Command shall instruct Dispatch to notify the Red Cross and the other service organizations pf the situation. This notification to Dispatch should be given by Command as soon as possible after the incident has been stabilized, Dispatch will immediately notify both organizations in all cases. Normally, the Red Cross will respond to the scene for immediate assistance and the Churches will provide later "follow-up." Both may respond to the scene if requested.

Fire Department personnel shall monitor the welfare of the occupants and those affected by the fire until the arrival of the Red Cross and/or the Churches. To accomplish this, a Welfare Sector may be established by Command. The officer assigned, as Welfare Sector shall determine the number of personnel required to accomplish the objective. This could require one person or a number of companies depending upon the complexity of the incident and the numbers involved.

When the Red Cross and/or the Churches arrive they will contact Command and inform him of their arrival. . Command shall notify the Welfare Sector Officer that these personnel are on the scene and coordinate their contact. In most cases, the welfare of the occupants can be assured by these agencies at any time; however, if needed, the Fire personnel shall remain to assist.

It is the objective of the Ennis Fire Department to cooperate fully with the Service Organizations and Churches. Through coordination of the activities with these agencies, the citizens of Ennis, Texas will receive the needs they require.

Dispatch shall keep telephone numbers and contact information current.

EMERGENCY FOSTER CARE

It may be necessary, under some circumstances, for the Fire Department to arrange for temporary foster care for children. This could occur in case of a fire or any situation in which parents, relatives or legal guardians are unable to provide care and/or shelter for the children.

In these cases, the Texas Child Welfare Protective Services Division shall be contacted. Protective Services will designate the proper location to deliver the child and/or children, depending on the circumstances.

The Ennis Police Department shall be advised any time that children are placed with Child Protective Services.