Pak-Tracker Firefighter Locator System Study Notes

PAK-TRACKER FIREFIGHTER LOCATOR SYSTEM STUDY NOTES

1. INTRODUCTION

  • The Pak-Tracker Firefighter Locator System is designed as a distress alarm system for identifying and locating firefighters in distress.
  • Components of the System:
    • Personal Transmitter: Embedded in each SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus).
    • Handheld Receiver: Capable of receiving signals from SCBAs in full-alarm mode.
  • Dual Purpose of the Pak-Tracker:
    • Monitoring/Identification: Acts as an early-warning device providing information on a distressed member’s identity.
    • Tracking Capability: Allows firefighters to locate a distressed member.
  • Comparison with Other Systems:
    • Serves as an additional identification tool alongside the Electronic Fireground Accountability System (EFAS) and the FAST handie-talkie.

2. SENSITIVITY DISTANCE

  • Maximum Range: Approximately 900 feet (line of sight) from the SCBA’s transmitter to the Pak-Tracker handheld receiver.
  • Factors Affecting Range: Environmental conditions and potential interference or signal reflection can impact the maximum range.

3. RESTRICTED USE IN SOME LOCATIONS

  • Safety Precaution: The Pak-Tracker handheld receiver should not be used in flammable or explosive atmospheres.
  • Always check for flammable or explosive environments before entering unknown locations with the Pak-Tracker.

4. FDNY POLICY FOR PAK-TRACKER OPERATIONS

  • Usage by Companies: Pak-Trackers are carried by ladder, rescue, and squad companies.
  • Incident Command Post (ICP):
    • FAST Unit, rescue, and squad companies shall report to the ICP with the Pak-Tracker.
    • A designated FAST member will monitor the Pak-Tracker from its assigned position.
  • Sparing System:
    • Unlike EFAS, the Pak-Tracker cannot update with spare masks in use.
    • Battalions must print and attach a Spare Mask Assignment List at the start of each tour.
  • Monitoring Protocol:
    • Upon alarm activation, the FAST unit must immediately notify their company officer with identified details.
    • If the alarm indicates a life-threatening situation and contact is not established, a “mayday” transmission must be sent to the IC as described in the Communications Manual, Chapter 9.
  • Tracking Capability Utilization:
    • If the IC designates usage of the Pak-Tracker’s tracking capability, the Pak-Tracker at the command post may be immediately utilized.
  • Building Collapses: In case of building collapses, a Pak-Tracker can assist in identifying and locating trapped members.

5. BASIC OPERATION OF THE PAK-TRACKER LOCATOR SYSTEM

  • Power On Procedure:
    • To turn on the receiver, press and hold both the Enter and Scroll buttons.
    • An LCD display will show a “power-up” message once powered.
  • Receiving and Displaying Signals:
    • Emits a two-tone alarm when receiving a PASS device signal for ten seconds, displaying the SCBA identity and signal strength.
    • Can store up to 36 SCBA identities, though the display shows only two lines of info at a time.
  • Scrolling Through Identifications:
    • If more than two PASS alarms are activated, arrows on the display will guide scrolling through identities by holding the Scroll button for three seconds.
  • Locking and Unlocking Signals:
    • A Pak-Tracker can lock onto one specific SCBA signal at a time, ceasing to receive additional PASS signals until unlocked.
    • To unlock, hold the Scroll button for three seconds to return to monitoring mode.
  • Audible Signals:
    • A warning that the Pak-Tracker may alert before the audible PASS alarm is recognized by a human, indicating it may serve as an initial distress detection device.

6. OPERATIONS - IDENTIFICATION

  • PASS Alarm Activation:
    • Activated PASS alarms transmit signals viewable by the receiver after 10 seconds, indicating potential distress. This lag minimizes false activations.
  • Safety Measure: The Pak-Tracker acts as a critical early-warning device during emergencies, particularly if a member is incapacitated.

7. OPERATIONS - TRACKING

  • Signal Interpretation: Understanding how SCBA PASS device signals function and how the Pak-Tracker displays this information is crucial for successful operation.
  • Factors Influencing Signal Strength:
    • Distance, Path, Materials, Orientation of the receiver significantly affect signal strength displayed.
  • Essential Skills:
    • Users must combine Pak-Tracker readings with search techniques, situational awareness, and building knowledge.
  • Locking and Searching:
    • To begin tracking, press Enter once after identifying the correct PASS alarm signal.
  • Search Techniques: Hold the Pak-Tracker at waist height and orient toward the strongest signal.
  • Material Effects on Signal: Signals can pass through certain materials like glass and wood but not through metals or concrete.
  • Approach Protocol: The member with the Pak-Tracker must lead the search, maintaining awareness of the search team’s position to avoid interference.
  • Search and Rescue Steps:
    • READ, INTERPRET, and FOLLOW signal strength indications while conducting a search.
  • Locating SCBA from the Street: Point at windows to gauge relative signals for activated SCBAs.

8. INSPECTION

  • Pre-Use Inspection: Test the Pak-Tracker prior to every use. If malfunctioning, place out of service and contact maintenance.
  • Specific components to inspect include:
    • Visual inspection of body, battery compartment, and display for damage.
    • Clean battery contacts; verify installation of fully charged battery.
    • Check if the Pak-Tracker powers up and displays correctly when activated.
  • Battery Life:
    • A “Low Batt” indicator will glow when the battery reaches approximately 20% life, allowing for one additional hour of operation before requiring replacement.

9. BATTERY CHARGING FOR THE PAK-TRACKER

  • Power Source: The Pak-Tracker uses a rechargeable Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack.
  • Charging Procedure: Ensure correct orientation of the battery pack in the charger for optimal performance.
  • Battery Maintenance: Batteries should be recharged weekly to sustain a full charge.
  • Indications of Defects: Avoid using batteries showing defects indicated by RED or YELLOW lights during charging.

10. BATTERY INSTALLATION FOR THE PAK-TRACKER

  • Battery Installation Steps:
    • Ensure battery is fully charged and undamaged before installation.
    • Carefully orient the battery pack correctly while inserting into the unit to avoid damage.
    • Once inserted, secure the threaded cover by twisting clockwise.

11. CLEANING

  • Maintenance Reminder: Clean the Pak-Tracker with a damp cloth only.
  • Cleaning Precautions: Do not immerse in liquid otherwise, harm may come to the device.

12. STORAGE

  • Dry Storage: Ensure that all components are dry before storing them in their designated case.
    • Detach the battery for long-term storage to prevent terminal damage.

13. SCBA IDENTITY VERIFICATION

  • Use in Drills: The Pak-Tracker aids in verifying assigned and spare SCBAs during multi-unit drills.

14. TRAINING

  • Training Kit Components: A Pak-Tracker training kit is available for divisions and includes essential training equipment for hands-on learning.

15. PAK-TRACKER PROGRAMMING

  • Programming Limitation: Only eight characters of identification can be displayed due to the transmitter limitations in SCBAs.

    • Members must be familiar with unit identities as formatted on the LCD display for accurate identification during emergencies.
    • Specific examples are provided demonstrating SCBA identifications up to eight characters, highlighting the display limitation in three-digit company names (e.g., Ladder 175 Roof will display as L175-ROO).

  • Examples of Identifiers: Various formats of SCBA identification for different types of units are provided, ensuring clarity in unit assignment monitoring.

  • Note: This protocol and the understanding of limitations are vital for operational efficiency during emergencies.