Fire Department Codes and Signals Reference

Fire departments in FiveM roleplay use a structured system of codes, signals, and classifications to coordinate their operations efficiently. From alarm levels that determine unit response to incident codes that categorize emergencies, understanding these systems is essential for realistic fire department RP.

Alarm Levels

First Alarm

Standard initial response to a reported structure fire. Typically dispatches 2 engines, 1 truck/ladder, 1 rescue, and 1 battalion chief. Sufficient for small to moderate fires.

Second Alarm

Escalated response when first alarm units determine the fire is larger than initially reported. Adds additional engines, trucks, and command staff.

Third Alarm

Major fire requiring significant resources. Called for fully involved structures or multi-structure fires. Mutual aid from neighboring departments may be requested.

Fourth Alarm and Above

Catastrophic fire events requiring maximum department resources and extensive mutual aid. Multiple command posts may be established. Off-duty personnel are recalled.

Apparatus Types

Engine (Pumper)

The primary firefighting vehicle equipped with water pump, hoses, water tank, and basic rescue equipment. Engines are the backbone of fire suppression operations.

Truck (Ladder/Aerial)

Equipped with an aerial ladder or platform for high-rise access, ventilation, and rescue. Also carries ground ladders and forcible entry tools.

Rescue

Specialized vehicle for technical rescue operations including vehicle extrication, confined space rescue, and water rescue. Carries hydraulic tools and medical supplies.

Battalion Chief Vehicle

Command vehicle used by the battalion chief or incident commander. Equipped with communications equipment and command boards.

Hazmat Unit

Specialized vehicle for hazardous materials incidents. Carries detection equipment, containment supplies, and decontamination systems.

Incident Type Codes

Structure Fire

Fire in a building or enclosed structure. Classified by type: residential, commercial, industrial, or high-rise. Each type has specific tactical considerations.

Vehicle Fire

Fire involving a motor vehicle. Hazards include fuel ignition, air bag deployment, and electric vehicle battery fires. Approach from upwind when possible.

Wildland/Brush Fire

Fire involving vegetation, grassland, or forest. Spread is influenced by wind, terrain, and fuel load. May require specialized wildland resources.

Hazmat Incident

Any incident involving hazardous materials including chemical spills, gas leaks, and radiation exposure. Requires specialized hazmat team response.

Technical Rescue

Non-fire emergency requiring specialized rescue skills. Includes vehicle extrication, trench rescue, high-angle rescue, and structural collapse.

Fire Ground Operations

Incident Command System (ICS)

The standardized management structure used at all fire incidents. The first arriving officer establishes command and manages operations until relieved.

Size-Up

Initial assessment by the first arriving unit. Includes building type, fire location and extent, exposure risks, water supply, and life safety concerns.

360 Walk-Around

A complete exterior survey of the structure to identify all sides, locate additional fire involvement, identify victims, and assess structural integrity.

PAR (Personnel Accountability Report)

A roll call conducted at regular intervals during operations to account for all firefighters on scene. Mandatory after collapse, flashover, or mayday.

Fire Radio Procedures

Mayday

Emergency distress call indicating a firefighter is in immediate danger. All radio traffic stops. Rapid Intervention Team is deployed immediately.

Emergency Traffic

A broadcast indicating critical information all units need to hear. Used for evacuation orders, collapse warnings, and tactical priority messages.

All Clear

Announced when primary search is complete and no victims are found, or all victims have been located and removed.

Under Control

Announced when the fire has been contained and is no longer spreading. Suppression efforts continue for complete extinguishment and overhaul.