When is the Victim Assistance Unit automatically dispatched?

The Victim Assistance Unit is automatically dispatched on any second alarm or greater due to the increased complexity and scale of incidents that typically occur at this level. When a fire escalates to a second alarm, it indicates that the situation is more severe and may involve a higher number of victims or more critical situations requiring support services. Dispatching the Victim Assistance Unit at this stage ensures that trained personnel are on-site to provide immediate support and resources to individuals who may be affected by the incident, addressing their emotional, psychological, and practical needs.

This protocol acknowledges the increased likelihood of victimization and the necessity of timely assistance in more significant emergencies, helping to ensure a comprehensive response to the incident beyond just the firefighting efforts. Consequently, it reflects a strategic approach to emergency management, focusing on the welfare of those impacted by the incident.