RIT/RIC
RIT (Rapid Intervention Team) or RIC (Rapid Intervention Crew) is a specialized team of firefighters dedicated to rescuing other firefighters in emergency situations. They stand ready to immediately help if other firefighters become trapped, injured, or disoriented during an incident. Think of them as the "firefighters who rescue firefighters." This role is required by national safety standards and is a crucial part of any major fire response. The terms RIT and RIC mean the same thing - different departments just use different names.
Examples in Resumes
Served as team leader for RIT operations at major structure fires
Completed advanced RIC training and certification program
Trained new firefighters in RIT/RIC procedures and equipment use
Typical job title: "Rapid Intervention Team Members"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Rapid Intervention Team Members
Professional Organizations
Training Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you organize and lead a RIT/RIC training program for your department?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should include creating realistic scenarios, establishing clear objectives, incorporating latest safety protocols, and methods to evaluate team readiness. Should also mention importance of regular practice and updating procedures based on real incident learnings.
Q: What factors do you consider when deciding to deploy RIT/RIC in a major incident?
Expected Answer: Should discuss risk assessment, resource availability, building conditions, fire behavior, crew locations, and coordination with incident command. Should emphasize the importance of maintaining RIT readiness while considering deployment.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What essential equipment should a RIT/RIC team have ready?
Expected Answer: Should list and explain key items like thermal imaging cameras, extra air bottles, rescue ropes, forcible entry tools, and communication devices. Should also explain why each item is important for firefighter rescue.
Q: Describe a RIT/RIC deployment scenario you've been involved in or trained for.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of team coordination, search patterns, air management, communication procedures, and rescue techniques. Should emphasize safety considerations and decision-making process.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the primary purpose of a RIT/RIC team?
Expected Answer: Should explain that RIT/RIC teams are dedicated to firefighter rescue and safety, standing ready to help firefighters who become trapped, lost, or injured during emergency operations.
Q: What are the basic responsibilities of a RIT/RIC member during standby?
Expected Answer: Should mention monitoring radio traffic, maintaining equipment readiness, gathering building information, and staying informed about firefighter locations and incident developments.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic firefighting certification
- RIT/RIC basic training completion
- Understanding of safety protocols
- Basic rescue equipment operation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced rescue techniques
- Emergency air supply management
- Building construction knowledge
- Team coordination experience
Senior (5+ years)
- RIT/RIC team leadership
- Advanced incident command understanding
- Training program development
- Major incident management experience
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of basic firefighting certification
- No experience with rescue equipment
- Poor physical fitness level
- Limited understanding of emergency protocols
- Inability to work in high-stress situations
Related Terms
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