RIT

NFPA 1407

OSHA 2 in / 2 out

Exception (OSHA): Immediate rescue of a known victim is allowed without IRIT, but IRIT must be established as soon as feasible afterward.

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Proper RIT Setup on Arrival (Checklist)

Location:

• Stage RIT on the Alpha side or Command-designated side, ideally next to the primary entry point, with a clear path to the structure.

Equipment Cache (minimum NFPA 1407):

• RIT bag with extra air + UAC

• Forcible entry tools (irons)

• 200’ search rope + tag line

• Thermal imager

• Saw(s) ready to run (fuelled/running check)

• Flashlights

• Stokes/SKED (if staffing/resources allow)

• Halligan, 6 lb axe, or multi-force tool

• Extra radios and spare batteries

• Wire cutters, wedges, door chocks

• TIC

Team Configuration:

• Officer / Team Leader: Runs the search plan, comms, and LUNAR collection.

• Air/Package firefighter: Manages RIT air, RIT bag, connections.

• Search firefighter: Rope management + wall orientation.

• Tools firefighter: Makes access (bars, saws, breaching).

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RIT Duties BEFORE an Emergency

RIT isn’t supposed to sit on a tarp waiting for the MAYDAY. They perform proactive prep work (as allowed by IC):

• 360 of the structure if not already completed

• Identify secondary egress points

• Force doors that need to be accessible for rescue

• Throw ground ladders to Charlie/Delta windows

• Remove window bars/hazards

• Identify fire location / flow path hazard

• Turn utilities off (if another company isn’t already assigned)

• Pre-plan likely rescue paths (interior stairs, hallways, attic access, basement routes)

• Maintain radio watch on fireground TAC channel

• Monitor interior crew locations and assignments

A good RIT reduces the severity of a MAYDAY by prepping the rescue routes BEFORE they’re needed.