What is the responsibility of the Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC)?

The responsibility of the Rapid Intervention Crew (RIC) is to provide rescue support when needed. This specialized team is trained to respond quickly in the event that a firefighter becomes lost, trapped, or experiences a medical emergency while operating in a hazardous environment, such as a structure fire. The RIC plays a critical role in ensuring the safety of personnel on the scene by having designated members who are specifically tasked with monitoring the safety of the interior crews and conducting rescues if necessary.

While fire suppression activities, salvage operations, and ventilation operations are essential functions in firefighting, they fall under different operational teams or units within the response structure. The RIC's primary focus is solely on rapid intervention and ensuring that any firefighter in distress receives immediate assistance, thus allowing them to fulfill their vital role in maintaining personnel safety during firefighting operations.