Metrofire's mission critical activities include:
1. Coordination of multi-community fire and EMS response
2. Provision of an interoperable and integrated radio communications network
3. Planning and training for fire and medical response
4. Responding to major incidents with specialized equipment and staff
5. Homeland Security coordination
6. Disaster response
COMMON RESOURCES
METROFIRE ACTIVITIES
The Control Center
The Metrofire Control Center is incorporated into the operation of the Boston Fire Department. Fire Alarm Operators monitor the activity of Metrofire's departments and coordinate response within the region.
Mutual Aid
The primary mission of METROFIRE is to provide proper coordination, communication, and response of the region's mutual aid firefighting and emergency medical forces.
Common Purchase
Metrofire maintains a common purchase system that provides substantial savings with group buying power. Metrofire also utilizes the statewide procurement system to provide the best value for its member communities.
Communications
Metrofire operates a multi-channel radio system for dispatch and coordination of firefighting apparatus and emergency medial units. A mobile Command and Communications vehicle is also operated for complex operations.
Hazardous Material
Metrofire developed, trained, and operated the first regional Hazardous Materials Response Team in Massachusetts. In 1990, the Commonwealth organized five additional regional response teams. Metrofire continues to serve the region with state funding and Department of Fire Services supoprt.
10 ALARM RUNNING CARD SYSTEM
The 10-Alarm Metrofire Running Card system has been designed to supplement traditional, local mutual aid systems. Response is preplanned to meet the needs of the area fire departments. The system coordinates a complex matrix of responding resources and manpower. The system preplans the response to major incidents and the substitution of apparatus required to respond into any community that, due to its own level of activity, are unable to respond to additional emergencies. The system has historically proven its flexibility and effectiveness. Fire apparatus and ambulance response between communities occur on a daily basis. Both large-scale and simultaneous fires are routinely handled by the Metrofire system. Fire Alarm Operators provide for the rapid dispatch of supplemental aid to communities, provide for the substitution of apparatus when overburdened departments are unable to respond, and ensure that specialized resources are delivered immediately when requested.
HazMat Response Team
The METROFIRE District HazMat Response Team, comprised of 40 specially trained members from community departments is part of the Statewide Hazardous Material Response System and is available to mitigate hazardous materials incidents. The Metrofire Hazmat Team operates an Operational Response Unit and a Technical Operations Module.
Air Supply Unit
Metrofire operates a van mounted air supply unit. The unit is capable of filling both 2200 psi and 4500 psi air bottles. It is dispatched upon request.
MBTA Evacuation/Rehabilitation Buses
The MBTA provdes buses for emergency evactuations from incident areas, and two specially modified buses for firefighter rehabilitation on the fireground. The Rehabilitation Units, known as "Community Response Units", are fitted with bench seats to accommodate firefighters in full turnout gear. They have heat and air-conditioning to provide personnel with relief in any season.
Fire Safety House Trailer
The Metrofire Fire Safety House is a trailer available for use by Metrofire communities for fire prevention and training purposes.
Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Team< /font>
METROFIRE recognizes that certain incidents may have profound physical and psychological effects on fire and rescue personnel. To reduce the impact of such stress, METROFIRE has established a partnership with the Boston Fire Department Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Team (CISD). Specially trained CISD personnel are available to provide on-scene or post-incident support for fire and rescue personnel.