UNIT ROLES

TBA

The LAFD Fast Response Vehicle (FRV) is a specialized emergency unit designed for quick deployment to incidents. Smaller and more agile than traditional fire apparatus, it carries essential firefighting tools and Advanced Life Support (ALS) equipment, enabling firefighter-paramedics to provide rapid medical care and begin fire suppression before larger units arrive. The FRV improves response times, especially in congested areas, ensuring critical assistance reaches those in need as quickly as possible. 

Deployment Criteria: Deployment requires two personnel, including at least one ALS provider, a station in the area of play that has an active Fast Response Vehicle in its apparatus sheet, along with one Rescue Ambulance in service capable of transport.

Designation:

• "FR(Fast Response) <Corresponding Station Identifier>" for a unit assigned with a 2-person, 3-person, or 4-person crew.

A 200 Series engine in the Los Angeles Fire Department is a supporting fire engine assigned to stations with a truck company. It operates as part of a Light Force, responding only when the truck is dispatched; typically to structure fires or major emergencies. The supporting engine is equipped with a water tank, pump, hose lines, and basic life support (BLS) equipment. It is usually staffed by a two-person crew or one person driving the apparatus to the scene and provides water supply, hose deployment, and fireground support for the truck company during operations. 

Deployment Criteria: Deployment requires one functioning truck unit, a station in the area of play that has an active support engine in its apparatus sheet.

Designation:

• "E (Engine) 2<Corresponding Station Identifier>" for an Engine assigned with a 1-person or 2-person crew.

• Given the nature of the role, this apparatus is solely focused on pumping for the operations of the master stream of a truck apparatus; therefore, the typical engine staffing may not be necessary or applicable.

• LF(Light Force) "<Corresponding Station Identifier>" for a pairing of a truck and support engine with varying personnel staffing.

  • • • When responding to an incident, the truck shall maintain radio communications for both apparatus, omitting their respective callsigns and using the term "Light Force" with their corresponding number

Note: LAFD is the only agency in the faction that has this unique unit type. For all other agencies, see QUINTUPLE COMBINATION PUMPER (QUINT)

An aerial truck designated as T in CAD is a specialized vehicle equipped with a large, extendable ladder or platform operated by a hydraulic system. It’s designed to reach upper floors of buildings, allowing firefighters to perform elevated rescues, roof ventilation, and fire suppression where ground ladders are insufficient. These trucks often function as mobile platforms for high-rise operations and are critical in large commercial or multi-story residential fires. In some cases, truck companies may also carry tools for vehicle extrication and technical rescue support, especially while awaiting a USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) team or another specialized response. 

Designation:

• "T(Truck) <Corresponding Station Identifier>" for a truck assigned with a 2-person, 3-person, or 4-person crew.

• LF(Light Force) "<Corresponding Station Identifier>" for a pairing of a truck and support engine with varying personnel staffing.

  • When responding to an incident, the truck shall maintain radio communications for both apparatus, omitting their respective callsigns and using the term "Light Force" with their corresponding number

A quint, designated as Q, is a hybrid apparatus that performs five critical functions: pump, water tank, fire hose, aerial ladder, and ground ladders. The name "quint" is short for quintuple combination pumper. Quints are designed to bridge the gap between an engine and a truck company by combining key capabilities of both. This allows a single unit to perform initial fire attack, establish a water supply, and provide elevated access or rescue without needing immediate support from separate apparatus. While quints may not carry as many tools or personnel as a full-size truck company, their versatility makes them especially valuable in rural areas, smaller municipalities, or departments that require flexible, multi-role vehicles due to staffing or coverage constraints. 

Designation:

• "Q(Quint) <Corresponding Station Identifier>" for a truck assigned with a 2-person, 3-person, or 4-person crew.

An airport fire crash truck, also known as an Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) vehicle, is a specialized emergency response apparatus designed to quickly handle aircraft emergencies at airports. These vehicles are equipped with large water tanks and carry specialized extinguishing agents like foam and dry chemicals, which are effective against highly flammable jet fuel fires. ARFF trucks have powerful pumps and advanced delivery systems, including high-reach turrets and piercing nozzles, allowing firefighters to target fires in hard-to-reach areas of an aircraft.

Built on heavy-duty, off-road capable chassis, ARFF vehicles can navigate runways, taxiways, and rough terrain to reach crash sites rapidly. In addition to firefighting equipment, these trucks carry specialized rescue tools for rapid extrication, such as hydraulic cutters and lifting airbags.

Deployment Criteria: Call necessity, a station in the area of play that has an active Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Vehicle (ARFF) In its apparatus sheet, or supervisor / IC request.

Designation:

• "CR(CRASH) <Corresponding Station Identifier>" for a truck assigned with a 2-person, 3-person, or 4-person crew.

TBD

A chief command vehicle (not to be confused with a light command vehicle) is a mobile command unit used by fire department leadership to manage large or complex incidents. Assigned to a Fire Chief, Assistant Chief, or Deputy Chief, it serves as an on-scene hub for communication, coordination, and tactical decision-making. These vehicles are often trucks, SUVs, sedans, or other applicable standard civilian-style vehicles, outfitted with radios, data terminals, command boards, and reference materials. While compact and mobile, they provide the necessary tools for effective incident oversight and coordination with field units and dispatch.

Deployment Criteria: May be deployed at the discretion of the Fire Chief, Fire Chief Deputy, Assistant Fire Chief, and Deputy Fire Chief. 

In Riverside County, the Fire Chief and Assistant Chief take home their respective command vehicles and may respond FROM home when not on duty.

Designation:

Los Angeles Fire Department

• "FC(Eff Cee / Fire Chief)<Corresponding Assigned Identifier>" for a vehicle assigned with a 1-person staffing. (Fire Chief exclusively.)

Los Angeles County Fire Department

• "FC(Eff Cee / Fire Chief)<Corresponding Assigned Identifier>" for a vehicle assigned with a 1-person staffing. (Fire Chief exclusively.)

Riverside County Fire Department

• "C(Cee / Chief)<Corresponding assigned Identifier>" for a vehicle assigned with a 1-person staffing.

  • The Fire Chief, Deputy Fire Chief, and Assistant Fire Chief all have take-home vehicles to respond to any incidents from home if need be.

Corresponding identifiers can be found in 102 - Organizational Structure > Riverside County Fire Department

California Department of Forestry & Fire Prevention

• "DC(Division)1410"  for the division chief assigned in Riverside County with a 1-person staffing.

• "DC(Division)1510"  for the division chief assigned in San Bernardino County with a 1-person staffing.

• "DC(Division)1610"  for the division chief assigned in Los Angeles County with a 1-person staffing.

A light command vehicle is a mobile command unit used by a fire department battalion or bureau-level leadership to manage large or complex incidents. Assigned to a battalion chief, it serves as an on-scene hub for communication, coordination, and tactical decision-making. Equipped with radios, data terminals, and incident command tools, the vehicle allows seamless coordination with responding units and dispatch. Built on a utility SUV or truck chassis, it includes a command workspace, reference materials, and basic gear, enabling the command staff to effectively direct operations from the field. 

Deployment Criteria: May only be deployed by a Battalion Chief or higher, with at least FOUR Fire/EMS personnel on duty, or with Fire Chief approval for administrative or urgent operational needs. 

Designation:

Los Angeles Fire Department

• "B(Battalion)<Corresponding Area Identifier>" for a vehicle assigned with a 1-person staffing or 2-person staffing

• "CM(Command)<Corresponding Bureau / Office Identifier>" for a vehicle assigned with a 1-person or 2-person staffing.

Los Angeles County Fire Department

• "BC(Battalion)<Corresponding Area Identifier>" for a vehicle assigned with a 1-person staffing or 2-person staffing

• "CC(Chief)<Corresponding Bureau / Office Identifier>" for a vehicle assigned with a 1-person or 2-person staffing.

San Bernardino County Fire Department

• "BC(Battalion)<Corresponding Area Identifier>" for a vehicle assigned with a 1-person staffing.

Riverside County Fire Department

• "BC(Battalion)<Corresponding Area Identifier>" for a vehicle assigned with a 1-person staffing.

California Department of Forestry & Fire Prevention

• "BC(Battalion)1420" for a battalion chief assigned in Riverside County with a 1-person staffing.

• "BC(Battalion)1520" for a battalion chief assigned in San Bernardino County with a 1-person staffing.

• "BC(Battalion)1620" for a battalion chief assigned in Los Angeles County with a 1-person staffing.

An EMS Bureau Command Vehicle is a mobile command unit used by the fire department's EMS leadership within the EMS Bureau to manage large or complex medical incidents. Assigned to a Fire Captain I or Fire Captain II in the EMS Bureau, it serves as an on-scene hub for communication, coordination, and tactical decision-making. These vehicles are often trucks, SUVs, sedans, or other standard civilian-style vehicles, equipped with radios, data terminals, command boards, and reference materials. Compact and mobile, they provide the essential tools for effective incident management and coordination with EMS units and dispatch. 

Deployment Criteria: Minimum of two Rescue Ambulances of any type. There can only be one EMS Bureau Command Vehicle active at a time unless directed by the Fire Chief.

Designation:

Los Angeles Fire Department

• "EM(ee-em-ess)<Corresponding area Identifier or assigned identifier>" for a vehicle assigned with a 1-person, or 2-person staffing.

Los Angeles County Fire Department

• "EM(ee-em-ess)<Corresponding area Identifier or assigned identifier>" for a vehicle assigned with a 1-person, or 2-person staffing.

Fire Instructor I, II - Training Division

Firefighters or Fire Officers assigned to the Training Bureau are instructors responsible for teaching and training the next generation of Firefighters. They usually do not participate in general duties; instead, they teach an approved curriculum in an academy setting.

Deployment Criteria: Only to be used in active training sessions.

Designation:

• "TO(Training)<assigned instructor radio identifier>"

Firefighter I - Training Division

New Firefighters assigned to the training division for their immediate entrance into the fire department faction. See 104.1 - DEPARTMENT RANKS AND DEFINED RESPONSIBILITIES for responsibilities and permissions.

Deployment Criteria: Only to be used in active training sessions. 

Designation:

• "TO("Training")<three digit number starting 2##; assigned by roster for training purposes.>"

Conduct Investigation Section

The Conduct Investigation Section (CIS) investigates incidents and possible suspicions of law-breaking and professional misconduct attributed to members on the job. At this time, the duties of this Division are fulfilled by the Fire Department Command Team in cooperation with the Chief. Under the authority of CIS, as well as authority inherent to their rank, the Command Staff investigates in character, as well as out of character, complaints against faction members, issues disciplinary action, and maintains records of such. This responsibility often requires collaboration with law enforcement or other partnering agencies to ensure thorough and impartial investigations. Should the Chief and their Command Staff Team's integrity come into question, such matters become the Server Directorate's issue. 

Deployment Criteria: Must be assigned to the LAFD Professional Standards Bureau. At the discretion of the Fire Chief.

Designation:

• "CI (Cee-Eye)<Unit number>"

Post-Incident Review Section
The Post-Incident Review Section (PIRS) is responsible for examining all significant fireground operations, rescue efforts, and other critical incidents involving the department. Their reviews determine whether members acted in accordance with fire department policies, operational standards, and safety protocols.

Command Staff or designated Review Members may be assigned to conduct these reviews as stipulated by department policy. Their findings are used to improve training, ensure accountability, and strengthen the department’s overall operational effectiveness.

Deployment Criteria: Must be assigned to the LAFD Professional Standards Bureau, PIRS Section- Special Incidents or supervisor permission only.

Designation:

• "RS (Arr-Ess)<Unit number>"

Fire Chaplain - Wellness Unit
The Fire Chaplain, assigned to the Wellness Unit, provides spiritual guidance, emotional support, and counseling to members of the Fire Department and their families. Chaplains respond to critical incidents, traumatic events, and line-of-duty emergencies, providing confidential care to support the mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of those affected.

In addition to direct member support, the Fire Chaplain collaborates with peer support teams, the Wellness Unit, Command Staff, and external agencies, including law enforcement and community organizations, to promote holistic care and resilience across the department. Chaplains also assist in ceremonial functions, memorial services, and community outreach efforts. Command Staff of the LAFD Chaplain Corps may be authorized Home Garaging Authority on a discretionary basis by the LAFD Fire Chief.

Deployment Criteria: Must be assigned to the LAFD Professional Standards Bureau, Wellness Unit. With one Chaplain unit out at a time. May be requested for critical incident response, member wellness support, ceremonial duties, or community care.

Designation:

• LAFD: "CH(Chaplain)9"

• LACoFD: "CH(Chaplain)<Unit number>"

• RCFD: "CH(Chaplain)3"

Arson Investigation Unit

The Arson Investigation Unit (ACTS-ARS) is responsible for investigating all incidents of fire and suspected arson within the jurisdiction. This includes determining causes, identifying responsible parties, and gathering evidence to support enforcement or disciplinary actions when necessary. Arson Investigators are sworn law-enforcement officers under the authority of the State of California, the CALFIRE Office of the State Fire Marshal (by extension), and their respective local agencies. They are authorized to carry a firearm and effectuate an arrest in the performance of their duties and conduct thorough and impartial investigations, including in-depth scene analysis, witness interviews, and collaboration with other law enforcement or relevant agencies to ensure cases are fully and accurately resolved.

Deployment Criteria: Must be assigned to the ACTS Arson Desk. Call necessity, supervisor, IC, or law enforcement request; or performing general investigatory duties related to an ongoing investigation.

Designation:

• LAFD: "AR(Arson)<Assigned Unit number>"

• LACoFD: "IV(Investigator)<Assigned Unit number>"

• CALFIRE: "ABI(Ayy-Bee-Aye)<Assigned Unit number>"

Counter-Terrorism Unit

The Counter-Terrorism Unit (ACTS-CT) provides specialized support and expert analysis to law enforcement agencies in addressing terrorism-related threats and incidents. While not directly responsible for apprehensions, the CTD assists by evaluating intelligence, assessing risks, and advising operational units to ensure informed and effective responses. 

Members of ACTS are universally sworn law enforcement officers.

Deployment Criteria: Must be assigned to the ACTS Counter Terrorism Unit. Supervisor, IC or law enforcement request or performing general investigatory duties related to an ongoing investigation.

Designation:

• LAFD: "CT(Cee-Tee)<Assigned Unit number>"

Hazardous Materials Unit
The Hazardous Materials Unit (HAZMAT, CBRNE) is responsible for responding to and mitigating incidents involving chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive hazards, as well as hazardous materials releases within the jurisdiction. This includes identifying hazardous substances, containing or mitigating spills or releases, conducting decontamination, and providing emergency medical stabilization for exposed individuals when necessary. 

HAZMAT personnel operate under the authority of their sponsoring fire, emergency management, or law enforcement agency and may coordinate with local, state, or federal resources during larger incidents. Some agencies do not maintain dedicated HAZMAT capabilities and may rely on assistance from neighboring agencies; in such cases, personnel should follow the mutual aid communications policy as outlined in the faction manual.

Deployment Criteria: Must be assigned to a recognized HAZMAT unit. Activation is authorized by the Incident Commander, supervisory authority, or mutual aid request, or when performing operational duties related to an ongoing hazardous materials incident.

FEMA & Regional California Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces
The Urban Search and Rescue Team (USAR, US&R, UR) is tasked with responding to and mitigating incidents involving structural collapse, entrapment, confined space emergencies, wide-area search operations, and other technical rescue situations in urban and disaster environments. Members are trained in advanced rescue techniques, including breaching, shoring, rigging, technical rope operations, and medical stabilization of trapped victims. The team works under the authority of their sponsoring fire, emergency management, or law enforcement agency, and often operates in coordination with FEMA (or under direct control), state emergency services, or mutual aid systems during large-scale disasters. 

Federalized or federally-supported USAR personnel (CA-TF) may be deployed domestically or internationally, depending on incident scale, and are capable of operating in hazardous and austere environments for extended periods while conducting rescue and recovery operations.

Any task force with "CA-TF" falls under the FEMA scope of management and collaborative funding, whereas any task force with "CA-RTF" falls under the California Office of Emergency Services, a state-wide USAR team.

Deployment Criteria: Must be a designated member of the USAR unit. Deployment is authorized by the Incident Commander, supervisory authority, or state/federal emergency management activation.

• LAFD: "UR(Urban Rescue)1" for local city operations.

or "CA-TF(California Task Force)1 or (California Tee-Eff)" when performing mutual aid to other agencies or general disaster response.

• LACoFD: "USAR(Yew-Sar or Urban Rescue)102" for local county operations.

or "CA-TF(California Task Force)2 or (California Tee-Eff)" when performing mutual aid to other agencies or general disaster response.

• SBCoFD: "USAR(Yew-Sar or Urban Rescue)7" for local county operations.

or "CA-RTF(California Regional Task Force)6 or (California Arr-Tee-Eff)" when performing mutual aid to other agencies or general disaster response.

• RCFD: "R(Rescue)3"

or "CA-TF(California Task Force)6 or (California Tee-Eff)" when performing mutual aid to other agencies or general disaster response.

Any utilities or support vehicles will omit any special designations and use the collaborative "task force" identifier as shown. When referring to a specific vehicle or unit, you may use an example following of: "(Regional) Task Force 1; from Utility (Support, Logistics), etc.