Purpose Statement

This article explains how to access and update pre-plan information directly from within an active inspection. This functionality allows users to make real-time updates to pre-plans while in the field, improving data accuracy, operational readiness, and reducing duplicate work.

Background Information

Pre-planning is critical for emergency response preparedness, providing crews with key details about structures, hazards, and operational considerations.

When conducting inspections in First Due, users can access a limited version of the pre-plan module. While some configuration elements differ from the full pre-plan interface, users can still update key operational components like units, hazmat, attachments, and annotations. Additionally, occupancy and contact information remain accessible from the inspection view above the pre-planning section.

This workflow is especially useful for field personnel using tablets, allowing updates to occur on-site without needing to switch modules.

Required Permissions

To access and update pre-plans from an inspection, users must have:

• Permission to view and edit inspections
• Permission to access and modify pre-plans
• Administrative configuration access (for setting up unit favorites)

If permissions are missing, users may be unable to save or apply updates to the pre-plan.

Video

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Open an Active Inspection
   • Navigate to the Inspections module

   • Select and open an inspection in progress

      

2. Access Pre-Planning Section

   • Select the Pre-Planning option within the inspection

     
      

3. Add and Place Pre-Plan Elements
   • From the pre-plan interface, you can:
     • Add Units
     • Add Hazmat locations
     • Upload Attachments
     • Modify Levels/Floors
     • Add Annotations

   • Use the right-hand panel to select items and place them directly on the map

     
      

4. Utilize Unit Favorites (Optional but Recommended)
   • Favorites appear at the top of the unit list for quick access
   • Must be configured by an admin under Pre-Plan Unit Types

   • Star selected units to prioritize them in the field

     
      

5. Use Map Tools
   • Drag and drop Pegman (Street View) if available
   • Toggle between Google Maps and ArcGIS views

   • Use satellite view and zoom controls as needed

     
      

6. Mark Pre-Plan as Reviewed

   • Select “Pre-Plan Reviewed” to confirm updates

     
      

7. Complete Inspection
   • Finalizing the inspection will automatically update the associated pre-plan

   • The system logs the last pre-plan update and user

      

Best Practices

• Set up unit favorites to streamline field workflows on tablets
• Use the side panel placement method for more accurate map annotations
• Always verify updates before marking the pre-plan as reviewed
• Limit complex edits in the field—use full pre-plan module for advanced configurations
• Ensure a stable internet connection when working with map features

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: Why can’t I edit the pre-plan from my inspection?
A: You may not have the required permissions. Contact your system administrator.

Q: Are all pre-plan features available during an inspection?
A: There are some limitations compared to the full pre-plan module; however, you can still access occupancy and contact information from the left-side panel above the pre-planning section.

Q: Why don’t I see my favorite units?
A: Favorites must be configured in the Pre-Plan Unit Types settings by an admin.

Q: Will my changes automatically save to the pre-plan?
A: Yes—once the inspection is completed, updates made in the pre-plan section are applied.

Q: Can I use Street View everywhere?
A: No, Pegman (Street View) is only available in supported geographic areas.