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Step-by-Step Guide

• Select the PLUS icon. 

• At the bottom of the window, select: 

 

• From the dropdown menu, search or scroll and select the Unit you wish to use.  The Unit will populate on the screen as a "bouncing unit".  Drag the Unit to the appropriate location on the map, fill in the appropriate supplemental information and the Visible Zoom Level settings.

 

• Scroll to the bottom of the window and select:
   

 

 

Best Practices

Do's

• Create descriptive layer names that clearly indicate the purpose and scope of each regional pre-plan
• Use consistent naming conventions across your department for easier identification and management
• Set appropriate zoom levels for annotations and units to avoid map clutter at higher zoom levels
• Add detailed descriptions to layers to provide context for users who may be unfamiliar with the pre-plan
• Include relevant attachments to units and annotations (maps, diagrams, contact information, procedures)
• Regularly review and update regional pre-plans, especially for seasonal events or changing infrastructure
• Test visibility on mobile devices before deploying regional pre-plans for field use
• Coordinate with partner agencies before sharing layers to ensure mutual understanding of shared information
• Use pre-planned units strategically to indicate staging areas, water supply points, or specialized apparatus positions
• Leverage annotations to mark hazards, access points, boundaries, and key features

Don'ts

• Don't create regional pre-plans on mobile - creation and editing must be done through the web interface
• Don't overcrowd a single layer - use multiple layers to organize different types of information or events
• Don't assume automatic sharing - regional pre-plans are not automatically shared with data sharing partners
• Don't forget to save before navigating away from the editor or your changes will be lost
• Don't use vague layer names like "Layer 1" or "Temp" that won't be meaningful to other users
• Don't delete layers without verification - ensure the layer is no longer needed before removing it permanently
• Don't mix unrelated information in a single layer - keep each layer focused on a specific event, area, or purpose
• Don't overlook mobile display limitations - remember that zoom level settings only apply to web view

Tips & Recommendations

• For large events, create separate layers for different operational periods or geographic zones
• Use the clone function when creating similar annotations or unit placements to save time
• Organize layers by frequency of use - place most commonly accessed layers at the top of the list
• Consider creating template layers for recurring events (annual marathons, seasonal festivals) that can be cloned and updated
• Document your layer structure in the description field or in departmental SOPs for consistency
• iOS mobile users currently have full access to regional pre-plans; Android support may vary
• Tilted map view can be toggled on/off and rotated for better perspective in complex terrain
• For water supply planning, use annotations to mark hydrant locations and pre-planned units to show tanker shuttle positions
• Coordinate with dispatch to ensure they're aware of active regional pre-plans that may affect response decisions
• Use enlarge/reduce functions on units to emphasize priority resources or de-emphasize secondary equipment

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: Why can't I create or edit regional pre-plans on my mobile device?
A: Regional pre-plan creation and editing functionality is only available through the First Due web interface. Mobile devices (currently iOS only) can view regional pre-plans but cannot create or modify them. Access the web platform to create or edit layers.

Q: I shared a regional pre-plan layer with a partner agency, but they say they can't see it. What's wrong?
A: The partner agency must also take action to make shared layers visible. They need to navigate to Pre-Planning Pre-Plan Setup Regional Layers, select "Shared With Me," select your agency, and toggle on the specific layers they want to view. Sharing is a two-step process requiring action from both agencies.

Q: Why do my annotations and units appear at different zoom levels on mobile than on the web?
A: Zoom level settings configured in the web editor only apply to the web view. In the mobile app (iOS), all regional pre-plan items automatically display at the cities zoom level and closer, regardless of the zoom level setting configured on the web. This ensures critical information is visible to field personnel.

Q: Can I copy an existing regional pre-plan layer to create a new one for a similar event?
A: Yes, you can use the clone function for individual units and annotations within a layer. While there isn't a single-click "duplicate layer" function, you can create a new layer and then clone each unit and annotation from the original layer. This is particularly useful for recurring annual events.

Q: I deleted a regional pre-plan layer by mistake. Can I recover it?
A: Deleted regional pre-plan layers cannot be recovered through the First Due interface. Contact First Due support immediately if you've accidentally deleted critical information. To prevent accidental deletion, consider implementing a departmental policy requiring administrator approval before deleting any regional pre-plan layers.

Q: What's the difference between annotations and pre-planned units in regional pre-plans?
A: Annotations are markers, shapes, lines, or text overlays used to highlight features, boundaries, hazards, or areas of interest on the map. Pre-planned units represent actual apparatus or resources positioned at specific locations, complete with unit identifiers and supplemental information. Use annotations for environmental features and pre-planned units for equipment staging and deployment positions.

Related Articles

1. Pre-Plans: Adding Units
2. Pre-Plans: Visible Zoom Levels
3. Pre-Plans: Adding Annotations