Command Setup: MAYDAY Checklist
Purpose Statement
- The Mayday checklist feature in First Due provides incident commanders with a critical safety tool that automatically populates when the Mayday feature is activated during emergencies. This specialized checklist ensures systematic response to firefighter emergency situations, helping incident commanders follow established protocols and maintain accountability during high-stress Mayday incidents.
Background Information
- Mayday checklists are distinct from standard command checklists and are specifically designed to guide incident commanders through emergency procedures when a firefighter is in distress. These checklists automatically appear in the command module when a Mayday is declared, providing immediate access to critical action items and safety protocols. The checklist items can be customized with thresholds and organized in priority order to match department-specific Mayday procedures and NIOSH recommendations.
Key Features:
- Automatic activation when Mayday feature is triggered
- Customizable checklist items with threshold settings
- Ordered priority display matching department protocols
- Integration with command board emergency operations
Required Permissions
- Users must have the appropriate level of the Incident Commands Templates 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
Video
Step-by-Step Guide
Best Practices
Checklist Item Creation:
- Use clear, action-oriented language for checklist item names
- Follow your department's Mayday standard operating procedures
- Include time-sensitive actions at the top of the list
- Consider NIOSH firefighter fatality investigation recommendations
Priority Ordering:
- Place immediate life-safety actions first
- Follow with accountability and resource management items
- Include communication and coordination tasks
- End with follow-up and documentation requirements
Threshold Configuration:
- Set thresholds based on incident complexity or resource availability
- Consider different threshold levels for various Mayday scenarios
- Align thresholds with department staffing and response capabilities
Content Guidelines:
- Keep checklist items concise but comprehensive
- Use department-specific terminology and protocols
- Include critical time factors where applicable
- Ensure items are actionable by incident commanders
Regular Review:
- Update checklists based on lessons learned from actual incidents
- Review items after training exercises and simulations
- Coordinate with safety officers and training personnel
- Incorporate updates from national standards and best practices
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Q: When does the Mayday checklist appear in the command board?
A: The Mayday checklist automatically populates in the command module when the Mayday feature is activated during an incident.
Q: Can I have different Mayday checklists for different types of incidents?
A: The Mayday checklist is universal across all incident types. However, you can use thresholds to customize which items appear based on incident complexity.
Q: What happens if I change the order of checklist items during an active Mayday situation?
A: Reordering affects the system configuration but should not be done during active incidents. Changes take effect for future Mayday activations.
Q: Can multiple people edit the Mayday checklist simultaneously?
A: Only one user should edit the checklist at a time to prevent conflicts. Coordinate with other administrators when making changes.
Q: How do thresholds affect checklist item display? A: Thresholds determine when specific checklist items appear based on incident parameters. Items with lower thresholds appear first or in simpler incidents.
Q: What should I include in a comprehensive Mayday checklist?
A: Include immediate actions (stop, look, listen), accountability measures, resource assignments, communication protocols, and safety officer notifications. Follow your department's SOPs and NIOSH guidelines.
Q: Can I export or print the Mayday checklist for reference?
A: Check with your system administrator about export options. The checklist is designed for digital use within the command board interface.
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