SOP 208.02 ATTACK MODE

Strategy depends, in part, upon the fireground commander's perception of the proper attack mode to employ. This is based upon whether or 'not there are enough firefighters and resources to overcome the enemy, which is excessive heat.

Determination of adequacy or inadequacy of resources is based upon the incident profile and the size-up. There are either enough firefighters on the scene to apply-the needed water and carry out other important fireground tasks or there are not. Based upon this, one of the following strategies is selected.

OFFENSIVE Yes, we can handle the incident.

OFFENSIVE/DEFENSIVE yes--but be prepared for total or partial defensive mode

DEFENSIVE/OFFENSIVE Not yet; take defensive action and work towards offense.

DEFENSIVE No, Fire is beyond the resources immediately available to handle it offensively.

The fireground commander should inform all on scene officers of the current attack mode. Here are examples of these modes.

OFFENSIVE MODE

Aggressive attack on the fire situation. On scene forces can apply the required GPM and carry out other needed tasks. Generally an interior attack is being pursued to control the fire. Resources and GPM ability exceed the demand.

DEFENSIVE MODE

Generally an exterior, surround and drown operation, while protecting exposures. The demand on resources and GPM exceeds on-scene capabilities.

OFFENSIVE/DEFENSIVE MODE

A variation of the OFFENSIVE mode, in that it is a pessimistic attack-mode. An aggressive mode will be attempted while backing up the fire forces and allowing for defensive coverage.

DEFENSIVE/OFFENSIVE MODE

The operation begins by protection of exposures and works towards and offensive attack.

Remember--the mode is based upon availability of resources to apply the needed GPM while accomplishing the other necessary fireground tasks.