Command: PAR Checks

Command: PAR Checks

Purpose Statement

  1. The PAR (Personnel Accountability Report) check feature in the Command Module allows incident commanders to systematically track and verify the safety status of all assigned personnel during emergency operations. This critical safety tool helps ensure no personnel are unaccounted for and provides real-time accountability tracking with automated timing and visual/audio alerts.

Background Information

  1. PAR checks are essential safety protocols in fire and EMS operations that require regular verification of personnel location and status during incidents. The Command Module's PAR functionality automates this process with configurable timers, visual indicators, and comprehensive logging. PAR checks are typically required every 10-20 minutes during active operations, though specific intervals may vary based on department policy and incident type. This feature integrates seamlessly with the command board's unit assignment structure and maintains detailed records for post-incident review and compliance reporting.

Required Permissions

  1. Users must have the appropriate level of the Incident Commands permission configured in their role:

    • Read: View command boards in read-only mode
    • Update: Modify command board settings and information
    • Create: Initiate new command boards and add custom items
    • Delete: Remove command board elements and complete incidents
  • Additional permissions may be required for specific functions like messaging and roster access based on integrated modules.

Video



Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding PAR Timer Alerts

  1. Normal Operation: Timer counts up to the configured threshold (Grey Status)



  2. Warning Phase: At 1 minute before threshold, timer turns yellow and audio warning sounds (if enabled)



  3. Threshold Reached: When timer reaches threshold, timer turns red and second audio warning sounds



  4. Manual Reset: Use the reset button to restart timer at any time during the process



Initiating a PAR Check

  1. Start PAR Check: Click the shield icon on the command board to initiate a PAR

  2. Command Board Lock: The board dims and enters read-only mode and shows the following:
    1. All Assigned units are displayed with yellow highlighting and warning symbols
    2. PAR counter appears to track units reporting successful PAR



Conducting the PAR Check

  1. Mark Units with PAR: Click once on each unit that reports successful PAR (unit turns green)
  2. Mark Units with Issues: Click twice on units reporting problems or emergencies (unit turns red)
  3. Reset Unit Status: Click three times to return unit to default yellow warning status
  4. Monitor PAR Counter: Track the running count of units successfully reporting PAR
  5. Verify Unit Eligibility: Only units in assignment fields can participate (unassigned units and command staff are excluded)



Completing the PAR Check

  1. Complete Successful PAR: Select "All Units PAR" when all personnel are accounted for
  2. Record Incomplete PAR: Select "Incomplete PAR" if some units don't respond or report issues



  3. Review PAR Results: Verify PAR results are properly documented in the incident log and Units in Assignments have the proper PAR Status (Green Checkmarks for PAR, Red 'X' for having an issue. The PAR timer resets to zero and begins counting again after completion.

Managing PAR Interruptions

  1. Pause PAR Check: Select "Pause PAR" to return command board to full editing capability to make any necessary command board modifications or assignments



  2. Resume PAR Check: Select the Shield Icon again to continue the PAR process from where it was paused. The PAR Check can be repeatedly paused/resumed as many times as needed




  3. Log Documentation: All pauses and resumes are automatically recorded in the incident log






Best Practices

Do's

  • Establish clear PAR protocols with your personnel before incidents occur
  • Configure PAR timer thresholds based on your department's standard operating procedures
  • Complete PAR checks promptly when the timer reaches the yellow warning phase
  • Document any incomplete PARs thoroughly in the incident log
  • Follow up immediately with units that don't respond to PAR requests
  • Use the pause function strategically when urgent command decisions must be made
  • Resume PAR checks as quickly as possible after pausing
  • Regularly review PAR logs during post-incident analysis

Don'ts

  • Don't ignore PAR timer warnings or let the timer reach red without taking action
  • Don't attempt to include unassigned units or command staff in PAR checks
  • Don't forget to reset the PAR timer manually if needed between checks
  • Don't pause PAR checks unnecessarily or for extended periods
  • Don't assume units are safe if they don't respond - investigate immediately
  • Don't skip documenting incomplete PARs in the incident log

Tips

  • Train all personnel on PAR response procedures during non-emergency periods
  • Consider adjusting PAR timer thresholds based on incident complexity and risk level
  • Use audio warnings as a backup to visual cues, especially in high-stress situations
  • Monitor the PAR counter display to quickly identify how many units still need to report
  • Practice PAR procedures during training exercises to ensure smooth real-world implementation

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: Why can't I click on certain units during a PAR check?
 A: Only units in Assignments can participate in PAR checks. Units in the unassigned area or command staff positions are excluded from PAR procedures.

Q: The PAR timer isn't providing audio warnings. What should I check?
A: Verify that audio warnings are enabled in the command template setup and that your device's audio is functioning properly. Check browser audio permissions if necessary.

Q: What happens if I accidentally mark a unit with the wrong PAR status?
 A: Click on the unit additional times to cycle through the status options: yellow warning → green PAR → red issue → back to yellow warning.

Q: Can I modify the PAR timer threshold during an active incident?
A: PAR timer settings are configured at the template level and should be set before incident activation. Contact your administrator to modify template settings for future incidents.

Q: How many times can I pause a PAR check?
A: PAR checks can be paused multiple times as needed. Each pause and resume action is automatically logged in the incident record.

Q: What's the difference between "All Units PAR" and "Incomplete PAR"?
A: "All Units PAR" indicates every assigned unit successfully reported their status. "Incomplete PAR" documents that some units didn't respond or reported issues, providing a complete record of accountability status.

Q: Can I reset the PAR timer without completing a PAR check?
A: Yes, the PAR timer can be manually reset at any time using the reset button, regardless of whether a PAR check is in progress or if the timer has reached its threshold.



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