#122 Calling a May-Day
On the fire ground, when a firefighter is in need of immediate help, he/she should call a MAY-DAY. Examples of immediate danger include running dangerously low or air, or becoming lost, trapped and/or seriously injured. Fire Departments should establish May-Day Guidelines and train all personnel on how to call for help. Below is a summary of the procedure featured in our book Operational Guides for Fire Service Professionals.
Sample MAY-DAY Radio Procedure for FF’s in immediate danger:
1. Activate the EIB (Emergency Identifier Button) on your portable radio.
2. Provide as much useful information as possible in the shortest amount of time using the acronym M3/W3:
M - MAY-DAY (to be announced three times)
Who - Identify your radio designation - (Ladder 1 Alpha, Engine 2 Bravo, etc.)
What - Give your situation - (lost, trapped, injured, etc. )
Where - Give your location - floor, side, other (1st floor, Side C, etc.)
Ex: “MAYDAY-MAYDAY-MAYDAY from Ladder 1 Alpha, I’m caught up in wires. I’m on Div. 1, Side C”
The firefighter transmitting the MAY-DAY must pause after each message and then repeat the message until it is acknowledged by the Incident Commander. The FD Dispatcher must relay any MAY-DAY messages that are not immediately acknowledged by the IC. Distressed members should activate their PASS device in between each message & after acknowledgement. If the PASS remains activated during the transmission of the MAY-DAY, it will cause significant background noise making the message unreadable.
MAY-DAY transmissions take priority over all other transmissions. NO exceptions!
For additional tips, including the IC’s role in managing MAY-DAY’s, refer to the book Fireground Operational Guides
Frank Viscuso is a career deputy chief from Hudson County, NJ, one of the most densely populated counties in the country. He is a contributor to Fire Engineering magazine and the author of five books including the best-selling tactical textbook Fireground Operational Guides (with Mike Terpak), and his popular leadership development book titled Step Up and Lead. Frank is also a certified fire instructor and highly sought after speaker. Over the past decade he has spoken to audiences in and outside the fire service on many topics that include leadership, team building, officer development, and customer service. His Leadership Development program is designed to introduce people to the top traits associated with fire service leaders and to equip them with the skills needed to lead, inspire, and motivate their teams. These traits and skills are featured in his book, Step Up and Lead.
Frank resides in New Jersey and can be reached by cell: (973) 981-1505, email: frank@commonvalor.com, or through the website www.frankviscuso.com.