r procedure for storing the units. After we discussed the basics of communication, we learned about the incident command system. The incident command system was developed as a consequence of fires that consumed large portions of wildlands in Southern California in 1970. As a result of those fires, agencies saw the need to document a system, which allowed them to work together toward a common goal in an effective and efficient manner. This system was officially adopted by the California State Fire Marshal's office, and the California Office of Emergency Services. It is now a common tool used by most fire-fighting agencies across the country. The system consists of procedures for controlling personnel, facilities, equipment, and communications. The incident command system is designed to be used in response to all emergencies caused by fires, floods, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, riots, hazardous material incidence, or any other natural or human caused incidents. After lunch we had in-class training on search and rescue techniques. After the classroom training a practical exercise was conducted using self-contained breathing apparatus with a face piece that was taped over to restrict our vision. We were then directed to perform a search and rescue operation that consisted of doing a sweep of a large room and rescuing a dummy. We conducted the search using the fire-fighting rule of two men in, and two men out. After our search and rescue practical exercise we were dismissed. Day three of our training started with an introduction to hazardous materials. We discussed the properties of hazardous materials, how hazardous materials are produced, how they are transported, how they're stored, and some of their uses. We discussed the use of placards, the International color background symbols, and the United Nations hazard class numbers. We were also instructed on the safety awareness precautions when approaching a possible hazard...
